HomeMy WebLinkAbout2002 Planning Board Jan-March minutes FINAL Draft to Clerk January 28,2001
Approved 2001
To Clerk 2001
Minutes of the Regular Meeting
LANSING PLANNING BOARD
7:00 p.m., Tenth Floor, Council Chambers
Lansing City Hall
Tuesday, January 22, 2002
1. OPENING SESSION
The meeting was called to order at 7:06 p.m. by Mr. Smith, Vice Chair.
A. Roll call. Present: Foster, Keene, Patrick, Smith, Ruge, Cordill.
B. Staff Attending: Ruff, Stachowiak.
C. Excused absence: Mr. Frederick.
2. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Ms. Keene was chosen to be Vice Chair for the Committee of the Whole this
evening.
It was moved by Ms. Patrick, supported by Ms. Keene to approve the agenda.
On a Voice Vote, motion carried unanimously (6-0).
3. COMMUNICATIONS
A. 2001 Office, Retail and Industrial Market Index
B. SLU-10-2001, 200 Block, east side of Townsend Street
Special Land Use Permit - Parking Ramp
C. Z-20-2001, Lots 10, 11 & 12 of Block 116, Original Plat, located at the
southeast corner of W. Allegan and Townsend Streets,
from "J" Parking and "G-1" Business Districts to "G-1" Business District
D. City Attorney's Letter addressing the fire hydrant issue at 4000 Hunter's
Ridge Drive
4. PUBLIC HEARINGS
A. Z-20-2001, Lots 10, 11 & 12 of Block 116, Original Plat, located at the
southeast corner of W. Allegan and Townsend Streets, from "J"
parking and "G-1" Business Districts to "G-1" Business District.
This is a request by the City of Lansing to rezone the property at the
southeast corner of W. Allegan and Townsend Streets, and more
particularly described as:
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES January 22, 2002, Page 2
Lots 10, 11 and 12 of Block 116 of the Original Plat of the Town of
Michigan, now the City of Lansing, Ingham County, Michigan, said
parcel subject to all easements and restrictions, if any
from "G-1" Business & "J" Parking Districts to "G-1" Business District.
Sue Stachowiak gave a brief overview.
Mr. Ruff stated that the City of Lansing is the current petitioner and that
the property had been transferred to the City of Lansing.
No one spoke.
Referred to the Committee of the Whole for later this evening.
B. SLU-10-01, 200 Block, east side of Townsend Street,
Special Land Use Permit - Parking Ramp
This is a request by the City of Lansing, in cooperation with the Boji Group
of Lansing, LLC, for a Special Land Use Permit to construct a parking
ramp on the property located in the 200 Block of the east side of
Townsend Street, between W. Allegan and Washtenaw Streets. Parking
Ramps are a use permitted in the "G-1" Business District, if a Special
Land Use Permit is approved by the City Council.
Sue Stachowiak gave a brief overview.
Mr. Ruff stated that there was a Special Land Use for part of the property
for a temporary surface lot where the YWCA building formerly stood. The
remainder of that side of the block has been surface parking for many
years. This removes surface parking into a facility and allows for a more
concentrated area for parking. This would provide additional parking for
the area.
No one spoke.
Referred to the Committee of the Whole for later this evening.
5. COMMENTS FROM THE AUDIENCE
Loretta Stanaway, resident of 546 Armstrong Road, explained that she met
with Chief Martin of Lansing Fire Department along with the Fire Department
Union President, Assistant Fire Chief Charles Booth and the President of the
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES January 22, 2002, Page 3
Fire Board Susan Anderson. The idea of relocating Station 4 to the old Richter's
Garden site has been permanently put to rest. Along with Station 4 is the
prospect of closing Station 9. She stated that the new proposed site on East
Miller is a vast improvement over the Richter site in terms of traffic safety and
financial concerns. Chief Martin has assured her that the response times at the
East Miller site in actuality would be largely comparable to the present response
times from the current Station 4 site on Pennsylvania. The Fire Department
Union President, Tom Cochran, seems to be comfortable with the projected
response times at the proposed new site. In order to maintain the response
times at the northwestern and northern portions of Station 4's current coverage
area, it is likely that calls to those areas would be reassigned to Station 9 or to
Station 6 once the new facility is operational on East Miller. This would meet the
objective of not seeing any significant increase in actual response times by virtue
of the station being relocated. Chief Martin categorically stated he has no plans
to close Station 9 or Station 7 and that he has no plans for reducing staffing
levels or doing anything that would result in significant increases in response
times over current levels. This is wonderful news. Chief Martin also indicated
that he would be using the same basic architectural drawings as were used at
the new Station 6 site but that the drawings would be modified to fit the needs of
the area Station 4 serves and that those same plans would most likely not be
used for the new Station 1 when it is built, at least not without substantial
modifications. While Chief Martin still wants to move the ladder truck to the new
site of Station 4, and she still believes, it is better left at Station 9, they would
probably never agree on everything. While the future holds decisions to be
made about relocating Station 1, for her and for now, that is another matter for
another day and time. At this point, she is satisfied with where things are and
where they seem to be going. But make no mistake, she'll continue to watch and
listen in case that changes.
Pat Maxam, resident of 525 Seymour, wanted to know why Kevin Thompson of
4000 Hunters Ridge Drive had been given a permit to build at this address when
there is no fire hydrant. She stated that Mr. Thompson bought the property 4-5
years ago and had it rezoned from "CUP" to "DM-1." She continued stating that
Mr. Thompson then obtained a building permit which Fire Inspector, Brian Davis,
approved although there was no fire hydrant. She also stated that the City of
Lansing follows the Fire Prevention Code which states that a fire hydrant needs
to be within 250 feet of a building. She stated that there is no public water in the
area for many hundreds of feet in each direction and that there is no fire hydrant.
Mr. Thompson is allowed to rent at this address which has no fire hydrant. She
has written the City of Lansing many times since the end of July 2001 asking the
City to take away Mr. Thompson's right to rent units. She referred to a letter,
written by the Lansing Fire Department and addressed to the City Attorney's
Office, which stated that the Fire Department had inspected the property and
that there was a fire hydrant at that address. She is wondering why they are not
telling the truth. It's time to rectify the situation at 4000 Hunters Ridge Drive and
to look into what is going on at the Fire Department. She read from the City
Attorney's letter, "The property has been inspected and a fire hydrant is there."
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES January 22, 2002, Page 4
She stated that she has maps from Board of Water and Light and that there was
an empty space when it came to the water pipes. She's certain that there is no
public water in most directions over 1,000 feet and perhaps 700 -800 feet in one
direction and the river is in another direction. She wants the situation rectified.
6. RECESS was not taken by the Board.
7. BUSINESS SESSION
A. Ms. Foster moved; seconded by Mr. Ruge to approve the minutes of
January 8, 2001.
Mr. Ruff stated there was a correction to the title page of the minutes in
the Planning Board packet and that it had already been corrected on his
copy and on the computer.
On a Voice Vote, the motion carried unanimously. APPROVED
B. Committee Reports
1. ZONING AND ORDINANCE COMMITTEE Mr. Ruge, Chair
a. Z-19-2001, Lot 4 of Block 2, M. Carey's First Addition
located immediately east of 622 and 614 Carey Street,
"B" Residential to "C" Residential District
This is a request by Erich Speckin, to rezone the property
measuring 66 ft. wide x 165 ft. deep, located immediately
east of 622 and 614 Carey Street, and more particularly
described as:
Lot 4 of Block 2, M. Carey's First Addition to the City
of Lansing, Ingham County, Michigan according to the
recorded plat thereof as recorded in Liber 1 of Plats,
page 2, Ingham County Records
from "B" Residential to "C" Residential District. The
applicant proposes to build a duplex on the subject
property. The applicant also owns the lot east of lot 4,
which measures 68 ft. wide x 165 ft. deep and is currently
zoned "C" Residential which allows for the development of a
duplex.
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES January 22, 2002, Page 5
The request to rezone Lot #4 to allow the construction of a
duplex, is compatible with surrounding development, is
consistent with zoning of the two lots to the east, is in
compliance with the Comprehensive Plan, does not
negatively impact the environment or future patterns of
development. Staff believes the development of two
duplexes within this block, along a street that carries a high
volume of traffic and across from a major institutional
development (Sparrow Hospital) is a logical and reasonable
request.
Ms. Keene was in opposition of the approval. She stated
that putting two duplexes in an area that is "A" and "B"
Single Family Residential is not consistent, contrary to the
staff report. She stated Lansing has an over abundance of
rental property, somewhere between 48-50%. With "B"
zoning, the applicant can put a Single Family residence on
site and rent it. If approved, she encourages the applicant to
build a Single Family residence. She stated that to add to
the amount of rental property in Lansing would not be in the
City's best interest.
There was a general discussion.
Mr. Ruge made a motion, seconded by Ms. Foster to approve Z-19-2001, Lot 4 of
Block 2, M. Carey's First Addition located immediately east of 622 and 614 Carey
Street, "B" Residential to "C" Residential District.
On a Voice Vote, the motion was approved by 5 members and opposed by 1 member.
Referred to City Council without an affirmative
recommendation. In order to have an affirmative
recommendation, 6 votes are needed.
Next meeting, Wednesday, February 13, 2002 at 4:00 p.m.
316 N. Capitol Ave., Department Conference Room.
2. URBAN DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE, Ms. Patrick, Chair
Next meeting, Tuesday, January 29, 2002, at 4:00 p.m.
316 N. Capitol Ave., Department Conference Room.
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES January 22, 2002, Page 6
Ms. Keene made a motion; seconded by Ms. Foster to dissolve into the Committee of
the Whole.
On a Voice Vote, the motion carried.
3a. Committee of the Whole
1. Z-20-2001, Lots 10, 11 & 12 of Block 116, Original Plat,
located at the southeast corner of W. Allegan and
Townsend Streets, from "J" parking and "G-1" Business
Districts to "G-1" Business District.
This is a request by the City of Lansing to rezone the
property at the southeast corner of W. Allegan and
Townsend Streets, and more particularly described as:
Lot 10, 11 and 12 of Block 116 of the Original Plat of
the Town of Michigan, now the City of Lansing,
Ingham County, Michigan, said parcel subject to all
easements and restrictions, if any
from "G-1" Business & "J" Parking Districts to "G-1"
Business District.
There was a general discussion including the possibility of
having residential within the development.
The Committee concurred with the staff report.
Ms. Patrick made a motion, seconded by Ms. Foster to approve Z-20-2001, Lots 10, 11
& 12 of Block 116, Original Plat, located at the southeast corner of W. Allegan and
Townsend Streets, from "J" parking and "G-1" Business Districts to "G-1"
Business District.
A recommendation was made and carried to include a unanimous opinion stating that
the Board is disappointed that residential is not a component of this development and
the City needs to continue to encourage additional downtown housing opportunities.
On a Voice Vote, the motion and recommendation carried.
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES January 22, 2002, Page 7
2. SLU-10-01, 200 Block, east side of Townsend Street,
Special Land Use Permit - Parking Ramp
This is a request by the City of Lansing, in cooperation with
the Boji Group of Lansing, LLC, for a Special Land Use
Permit to construct a parking ramp on the property located in
the 200 Block of the east side of Townsend Street, between
W. Allegan and Washtenaw Streets. Parking Ramps are a
use permitted in the "G-1" Business District, if a Special
Land Use Permit is approved by the City Council.
The Committee concurred with the staff report.
Mr. Smith made a motion, seconded by Ms. Cordill to approve SLU-10-01, 200 Block,
east side of Townsend Street, Special Land Use Permit - Parking Ramp.
Mr. Ruge stated that even though residential was not included, it still looks like a great
project and congratulations to all who worked at bringing it together.
On a Voice Vote, the motion carried.
3. SLU-9-01 & ACT-29-2001, 1429 E. Miller Road, New Fire
Station
The applicant is requesting a special permit to allow
construction of a fire station at 1429 E. Miller Road,
(immediately east to the AT&T office), to replace the existing
station at 5550 S. Pennsylvania. ACT-29-01 is an
associated application relating to the proposed acquisition of
this site by the City.
An application to rezone this parcel and the property to the
east is currently under review. The applicant is requesting
that the rezoning application be amended for the property to
be rezoned to the "D-1" Professional Office District, as
compared to "H" Light Industrial District originally requested.
Sue Stachowiak gave a brief overview.
Chief Martin indicated that the Staff Report included the cite
improvements of a 3,800 square foot facility and that this
was incorrect. The new facility would be approximately
12,000 square feet. He also indicated on page six, under
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES January 22, 2002, Page 8
the Special Land Use permit, the measurement of 50' x 75'
was also incorrect. The correct measurement is
approximate 100' x 100'.
There was a general discussion centered around energy
saving construction standards, Miller Road designation, fire
truck noise mitigation and fire truck design.
The Committee concurred with the staff report.
Mr. Smith made a motion, seconded by Ms. Cordill to approve SLU-9-01 & ACT-29-
2001, 1429 E. Miller Road, New Fire Station with the conditions as listed in the staff
report. These are: (1) The facility and site be designed in a manner that is in harmony
with the adjoining single family neighborhood to the maximum extent that is practical;
(2) The Fire Department avoid the use of sirens in proximity to the adjoining single
family neighborhood whenever possible; (3) The feasibility of placing remote activated
crossing signals at the driveway of the station be studied, in conjunction with the site
plan review process; (4) Increasing the turning radii at the intersection of Pennsylvania
Road and Miller Road be considered in preparation of the capital improvement budget
for the next fiscal year; (5) The communication tower be of a grey mono-pole design if
located to this site.
On a Voice Vote, the motion carried.
4. Act-12-2001, 5550 S. Pennsylvania Ave. (PPN 3301-05-
03-03-301-421) Market Fire Station for Sale
Ms. Foster made a motion, seconded by Mr. Smith to remove Act-12-2001, 5550 S.
Pennsylvania Ave. (PPN 3301-05-03-03-301-421) Market Fire Station for Sale from
the table.
On a Voice Vote, the motion carried.
The Lansing Fire Department requests permission to market
for sale the existing fire station at 5550 S. Pennsylvania Ave.
Both the building and the site are too small for current
needs, and alternate sites are being considered.
The Fire Chief recommends that the proceeds from the sale
be applied toward the marketing of this property and future
property acquisition.
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES January 22, 2002, Page 9
The Southeast Area Comprehensive Plan designates this
area for commercial land use, and the property is zoned "G-
2" Wholesale & "J" Parking.
The property measures 100.04 ft. wide (along Pennsylvania)
by 261.85 ft. deep and is 26,195.5 square feet
(approximately 0.6 acre) in size.
A 911 tower is located on the site and arrangements for its
final location must be considered.
Staff recommends approval of Act-12-01, the marketing for
sale of the fire station property located at 5550 S.
Pennsylvania for uses that are permitted in the "G-2"
Wholesale District.
The Committee found, based on its review of the location,
character and extent of Act-12-01 in accordance with its Act
285 Review procedures, that:
1. The fire station is too small for current needs.
2. The property will be surplus due to the anticipated
construction of a new fire station on the south side of
Lansing, and the City will not cease operations at the
present location until fire protection services can be
provided at another location.
3. The 911 equipment and tower will be relocated to an
alternative site if feasible. If the tower remains on
site, then an ownership, easement, or leasehold
interest in the tower, supports and equipment will
need to be retained to secure, access, and service
the tower.
4. A site plan will be required from the buyer for review
and approval by City agencies.
5. City Council approval is required for sale of the
property.
In the Urban Development Committee, it was moved and
seconded to approve Act-12-01 provided that if the 911
equipment and tower remains on site, then an ownership,
easement, or leasehold interest in the tower, supports and
equipment shall be retained to secure, access, and service
the tower.
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES January 22, 2002, Page 10
Ms. Foster made a motion, seconded by Mr. Smith to approve Act-12-2001, 5550 S.
Pennsylvania Ave. (PPN 3301-05-03-03-301-421) Market Fire Station for Sale.
On a Voice Vote, the motion carried.
5. Act-13-01, 4801 S. Cedar, Richter's Gardens (PPN 3301-
01-33-480-001), Acquire for Fire Station
Mr. Ruge made a motion, seconded by Ms. Patrick to remove Act-13-01, 4801 S.
Cedar, Richter's Gardens (PPN 3301-01-33-480-001), Acquire for Fire Station from
the table.
On a Voice Vote, the motion carried.
The Lansing Fire Department, as part of its facility
renovation project had requested permission to acquire the
property at 4801 S. Cedar Street (PPN 33-01-01-33-480-
001) for the purpose of relocating Station 6.
Finding that it is no longer being pursued, the Fire
Department's request has been withdrawn.
Mr. Ruge made a motion, seconded by Ms. Patrick to accept the withdrawal of
Act-13-01, 4801 S. Cedar, Richter's Gardens (PPN 3301-01-33-480-001), Acquire
for Fire Station.
On a Voice Vote, the motion carried.
Ms. Foster made a motion, seconded by Ms. Patrick to arise from the Committee of the
Whole.
On a Voice Vote, the motion carried.
3b. Committee of the Whole, Mr. Smith, Chair
1. Z-20-2001, Lots 10, 11 & 12 of Block 116, Original Plat,
located at the southeast corner of W. Allegan and
Townsend Streets, from "J" parking and "G-1" Business
Districts to "G-1" Business District.
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES January 22, 2002, Page 11
This is a request by the City of Lansing to rezone the
property at the southeast corner of W. Allegan and
Townsend Streets, and more particularly described as:
Lot 10, 11 and 12 of Block 116 of the Original Plat of
the Town of Michigan, now the City of Lansing,
Ingham County, Michigan, said parcel subject to all
easements and restrictions, if any
from "G-1" Business & "J" Parking Districts to "G-1"
Business District.
PLANNING BOARD ACTION on the motion was as follows:
Concurring with the Committee of the Whole action, Ms. Keene made a motion,
seconded by Ms. Patrick to approve Z-20-2001, Lots 10, 11 & 12 of Block 116,
Original Plat, located at the southeast corner of W. Allegan and Townsend
Streets, from "J" parking and "G-1" Business Districts to "G-1" Business District
with the recommendation that the Board would prefer and encourage a residential
component.
Cordill. . . Ave Foster. . . Ave
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Patrick. . .Ave Smith . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ave
Keene. . .Ave Ruge . .Ave
On a Roll call vote, there were: Ayes: 6; Nays: 0; carried; unanimous;
APPROVED
2. SLU-10-01, 200 Block, east side of Townsend Street,
Special Land Use Permit - Parking Ramp
This is a request by the City of Lansing, in cooperation with
the Boji Group of Lansing, LLC, for a Special Land Use
Permit to construct a parking ramp on the property located in
the 200 Block of the east side of Townsend Street, between
W. Allegan and Washtenaw Streets. Parking Ramps are a
use permitted in the "G-1" Business District, if a Special
Land Use Permit is approved by the City Council.
Concurring with the Committee of the Whole action, Ms. Keene made a motion,
seconded by Mr. Ruge to approve SLU-10-01, 200 Block, east side of Townsend
Street, Special Land Use Permit - Parking Ramp.
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES January 22, 2002, Page 12
Cordill. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ave Foster. . . Ave
Patrick. . .Ave Smith . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ave
Keene. . .Ave Ruge . .Ave
On a Roll call vote, there were: Ayes: 6; Nays: 0; carried; unanimous;
APPROVED
3. SLU-9-01 & ACT-29-2001, 1429 E. Miller Road,
New Fire Station
The applicant is requesting a special permit to allow
construction of a fire station at 1429 E. Miller Road,
(immediately east to the AT&T office), to replace the
existing station of 5550 S. Pennsylvania. ACT-29-01
is an associated application relating to the proposed
acquisition of this site by the City.
An application to rezone this parcel and the property
to the east is currently under review. The applicant is
requesting that the rezoning application be amended
for the property to be rezoned to the "D-1"
Professional Office District, as compared to "H" Light
Industrial District originally requested.
Concurring with the Committee of the Whole action, Ms. Keene made a motion,
seconded by Ms. Foster to approve SLU-9-01 & ACT-29-2001, 1429 E. Miller Road,
New Fire Station with five conditions as reported attached to the SLU-9-01
recommendation.
Cordill. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ave Foster. . . Ave
Patrick. . .Ave Smith . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ave
Keene. . .Ave Ruge . .Ave
On a Roll call vote, there were: Ayes: 6; Nays: 0; carried; unanimous;
APPROVED
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES January 22, 2002, Page 13
4. Act-12-2001, 5550 S. Pennsylvania Ave. (PPN 3301-05-
03-03-301-421) Market Fire Station for Sale
The Lansing Fire Department requests permission to market
for sale the existing fire station at 5550 S. Pennsylvania Ave.
Both the building and the site are to small for current needs,
and alternate sites are being considered.
The Fire Chief recommends that the proceeds from the sale
be applied toward the marketing of this property and future
property acquisition.
The Southeast Area Comprehensive Plan designates this
area for commercial land use, and the property is zoned "G-
2" Wholesale & "J" Parking.
The property measures 100.04 ft. wide (along Pennsylvania)
by 261.85 ft. deep and is 26,195.5 square feet
(approximately 0.6 acre) in size.
A 911 tower is located on the site and arrangements for its
final location must be considered.
Staff recommends approval of Act-12-01, the marketing for
sale of the fire station property located at 5550 S.
Pennsylvania for uses that are permitted in the "G-2"
Wholesale District.
The Committee found, based on its review of the location,
character and extent of Act-12-01 in accordance with its Act
285 Review procedures, that:
1. The fire station is too small for current needs.
2. The property will be surplus due to the anticipated
construction of a new fire station on the south side of
Lansing, and the City will not cease operations at the
present location until fire protection services can be
provided at another location.
3. The 911 equipment and tower will be relocated to an
alternative site if feasible. If the tower remains on
site, then an ownership, easement, or leasehold
interest in the tower, supports and equipment will
need to be retained to secure, access, and service
the tower.
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES January 22, 2002, Page 14
4. A site plan will be required from the buyer for review
and approval by City agencies.
5. City Council approval is required for sale of the
property.
In the Urban Development Committee, it was moved and
seconded to approve Act-12-01 provided that if the 911
equipment and tower remains on site, then an ownership,
easement, or leasehold interest in the tower, supports and
equipment shall be retained to secure, access, and service
the tower.
Concurring with the Committee of the Whole action, Ms. Keene made a motion,
seconded by Ms. Patrick to approve Act-12-2001, 5550 S. Pennsylvania Ave. (PPN
3301-05-03-03-301-421) Market Fire Station for Sale.
Cordill. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ..Ave Foster. . . Ave
Patrick. . .Ave Smith . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ave
Keene. . .Ave Ruge . .Ave
On a Roll call vote, there were: Ayes: 6; Nays: 0; carried; unanimous;
APPROVED
5. Act-13-01, 4801 S. Cedar, Richter's Gardens (PPN 3301-
01-33-480-001), Acquire for Fire Station
The Lansing Fire Department, as part of its facility
renovation project had requested permission to acquire the
property at 4801 S. Cedar Street (PPN 33-01-01-33-480-
001) for the purpose of relocating Station 6.
Finding that it is no longer being pursued, the Fire
Department's request has been withdrawn.
Ms. Keene made a motion, seconded by Ms. Cordill to accept the withdrawal of
Act-13-01, 4801 S. Cedar, Richter's Gardens (PPN 3301-01-33-480-001), Acquire
for Fire Station from the Table.
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES January 22, 2002, Page 15
Cordill. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ave Foster. . . Ave
Patrick. . .Aye Smith . . Ave
Keene. . .Aye Ruge . .Ave
On a Roll call vote, there were: Ayes: 6; Nays: 0; carried; unanimous;
APPROVED
4. Executive Committee - none
C. REPORT FROM PLANNING MANAGER
1. Wolverine Pipe Line information was provided and discussion
ensued.
D. PENDING ITEMS (future action required)
1. Zonina and Ordinance Committee
a. Z-1-981 1223 N. Turner St.,"H"Light Industrial District to"G-1"Business District
Tabled February 11 1998
b. -5-98,401-407 E.Grand Ler,"F"Commercial District to"G-1" Business
District Tabled June 10, 1998)
C. Z-8-200 , 3901 S. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.,"F"Commercial to"H"Light
Industrial District(Tabled June 14, 2000
d. Z-15-2000,301 W. Lenawee Street, Professional Office to"G-1" Business
District(Tabled January 17,2001�
e. P-1-2001,Tentative Preliminary fat,Wexford Woods(Tabled June 13, May 9,
2001)
f. PRD-2-01,"Crystal Woods", Planned Residential Neighborhood (Tabled August
15 2001
g. Z-$-01, illoughby Rd.,"A"Residential to"DM-1"Residential,"D-1"Professional
Office and' Residential (Tabled October 10,2001
h. SLU-6-01,517-519 E. Grand River Ave.,Church in"�-1"Commercial District
(Tabled November 14,2001)
i. SLU-8-01,3000 W. Miller Road,Additional Parking for an Existing Church
(Tabled November 14,2001)
2. Urban Development Committee
a. Act-9-2000,201 E. Grand River Avenue, Proj. Sign Over ROW (Tabled June 27,
2000)
b. Discussion of Comprehensive Planning Process.
3. Committee of the Whole
4. Planning Board
8. NEW BUSINESS
A. Planning Office Work Program and Budget for FY 2003
There was a general discussion.
Ms. Keene made a motion; seconded by Ms. Cordill to approve the recommended
Planning Office Work Program and Budget for FY 2003.
Cordill. . . Ave Foster. . . Ave
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Patrick. . .Ave Smith . . Ave
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Keene. . .Ave Ruge . .Aye
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES January 22, 2002, Page 16
On a Roll call vote, there were: Ayes: 6; Nays: 0; carried; unanimous;
APPROVED
9. COMMENTS FROM CHAIRPERSON - None.
10. COMMENTS FROM BOARD MEMBERS
Ms. Foster mentioned the upcoming American Planning Association Meeting in
Chicago. There was a general discussion.
Mr. Ruge mentioned the balconies that were planned for Washington Square.
There was a general discussion.
Mr. Ruge also mentioned the Church on Michigan Avenue that bought the Midas
Muffler Shop and was wondering if any movement was made on the landscaping
and buffering of the parking lot. Ms. Stachowiak stated the Planning Office is
presently reviewing the site plan for necessary improvements.
11. BOARD MEMBER CODE ENFORCEMENT NOTIFICATION REPORTS
Mr. Ruge mentioned the CB Richard Ellis Report. There was a general
discussion.
12. ADJOURNMENT - Meeting was adjourned at 9:30 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
James A. Ruff, Secretary, Planning Board
PB Minutes.012202.wpd
Draft to Clerk January 22,2001
Approved January 22,2001
To Clerk January 28,2001
Minutes of the Regular Meeting
LANSING PLANNING BOARD
7:00 p.m., Tenth Floor, Council Chambers
Lansing City Hall
Tuesday, January 8, 2002
1. OPENING SESSION
The meeting was called to order at 7:02 p.m. by Chairman Frederick.
A. Roll call. Present: Frederick, Foster, Keene, Patrick, Smith, Ruge.
B. Staff Attending: Ruff, Stachowiak, Hodges, Witherspoon
C. Excused absences: Ms. Cordill. It was moved by Mr. Ruge, supported by
Ms. Keene to approve the absence.
2. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
It was moved to approve the agenda as amended. On a Voice Vote, motion
carried unanimously (6-0).
3. COMMUNICATIONS
There were added Communications from:
A. Christine Timmon regarding the CDBG hearing
B. Almus Thorp to Lansing Planning Board strongly supporting the
continued use of CDBG and HOME grants
C. Notes from Bill Rieske regarding an article from the Lansing State
Journal that pertains to Act-29-2001 and an organizational chart for
Master Plan to replace the previous chart
D. MDEQ Notice of Public Hearing for an Air Quality permit for a GM
Plant in the Lansing Township
4. PUBLIC HEARINGS
A. Proposed Objectives Goals and Projected Use of Community
Development Fund Resources including Community Development
Block Grant, HOME and Emergency Shelter Grant Programs, FY
2002-2003
Ms. Witherspoon gave a brief overview.
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES January 8, 2002, Page 2
Ms. Christine Timmon, resident of 339 E. St. Joseph, expressed her
concern regarding the Game Show Grant given to the Lansing
Neighborhood Council. She stated that the Red Cross and all the
Emergency Shelter Grants have been seriously cutting back services for
truly needy people. She did not believe that the intent of the Community
Development Block Grants was intended to pay the Director's salary of
$32,073; Clerk's salary of over $22,000; Secretary's salary of over
$22,000; $10,000 for another person; over $3,000 for retirement; over
$2,000 for retirement for the assistant; taxes are over $7,000; plus health
insurance, workman's comp, and all the operating expenses are paid as
well. This comes to a total of$125,000, with $4,000 for undetermined
expenses. At this point in time, she feels if any money is held by the
CDBG for taxes for this group and for retirement that the money should be
put back into the Community Development fund. She stated that the
ESGs are in serious need. You might have seen Channel 6 or Channel
10. Both channels were showing the homeless people. These are people
who have a sound mind and they can get a good job. The intent was not
to fund a private 501(c)(3). They have violated this contract repeatedly.
There is a clause, #28 Conflict of Interest, that states they are not
supposed to come to this podium or any avenue and bring anything
before Congress, the Senate, or the City Council that has to do with
supporting or defeating legislation. She turned in a 200 page legal brief to
the US Inspector General along with video tape regarding this issue. She
feels that it's time that you, as a group of people, put this to an end. This
is one of the reasons for recall of the quorum of the Lansing City Council.
No private 501(c)(3)s should be established with these funds. She had
thought that these private 501(c)(3)s were already established and then
they come to the City to get money to help incoming clients for shoes,
clothes, and heat. She had no idea that retirement, all these salaries,
Workman's Comp, and health insurance were included. She stated it
wasn't right and that was not the intent. She stated that there was a
recent issue like this in another city that included the Mayor, a City Council
member and others who were arrested for the misuse of these Federal
funds. She stated that if this isn't stopped, she's going to find these
Federal agents and send them the same items that she had sent to the
US Inspector General. She commented that the US Inspector General
clarified that this is regulation and that they'd have to catch people doing
this over and over again. She made it clear that at this point, she is ready
for it to end.
Belinda Fitzpatrick, resident of 224 S. Holmes Street, stated that it
causes her great distress and disappointment that concerned citizens
such as herself find themselves to be outsiders regarding the Lansing
Neighborhood Council. She doesn't feel welcome in any of the
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES January 8, 2002, Page 3
Neighborhood Association meetings and doesn't feel welcome to take part
in anything that these agencies do because again and again she had
locked horns with them. She stated that she would rather put her efforts
towards working together with other people to try to make this a better
community. She has chosen to invest every dime she owns into this
community. She's very concerned about how the Lansing Neighborhood
Council is being turned into a political action committee being used by
Council members. She strongly believes that Carol Wood is the key
Council Member that is facilitating this. She believes that this is a misuse
of Federal Funds to turn the Lansing Neighborhood Council and
Neighborhood Associations into a political action committee being used by
the City Council to suppress other voices in the community. She gave two
examples:
1. An item currently pending before the City Council: She stated that
the City Council wishes to stop the broadcast of the public
comment portion of the meeting. She also stated that the City
Council is justifying this based on the fact that they heard this
desire from the community. She stated that they heard this from
the members of the Neighborhood Association with whom Carol
Wood networks. It is Ms. Fitzpatrick's belief that Ms. Wood planted
supporters in those groups to make this an issue so she could
come back to the City Council and use this as a reason for
justification to stop the broadcast of the public comment altogether.
2. She also believes that the Boys' Training School property was
another time where voices in the community were suppressed by
using this facade of the Neighborhood Associations and
Neighborhood groups. She stated that these groups gave the
impression that they were representatives of the community. She
stated that they are not representatives of the community. She
thinks the City of Lansing needs to do one of two things: either you
need to do something to end this network being used as a political
action committee or you need to cut out other Federal funds and
just say no more Federal funds.
Martina Johnson, of Ferris Development, 820 N. Capital, gave thanks
and appreciation to the City of Lansing for the CDBG funding. Because of
their partnership with the City, they have been able to rehabilitate and
develop 55 units of housing for sale and rental. Currently, they have 70
units under the rehabilitation process. She thanked the City of Lansing for
providing the CDBG funding that helps them administratively. They
currently have 11 people on staff. Through this funding, they offer a Pre-
purchased Home Buyer Counseling Class twice a month. She
encouraged the City of Lansing to continue their support with the Local
Initiative Support Corporation who in turn supports their organization.
Again, she thanked the City of Lansing for their continued support for their
organization and in providing affordable housing in Lansing.
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES January 8, 2002, Page 4
Michelle Canfield, resident of 3532 Callihan Court, Apt. #2, agreed
with Ms. Timmon and Ms. Fitzpatrick that the Neighborhood Associations,
from her experience especially with the BTS property, didn't allow
community members that actually lived in the neighborhoods to participate
in the decision making process. She stated that the neighbors wanted to
be a part of it. The BTS property has been vacant for over 50 years and
now it has been labeled a "blighted" site and was going to be fixed with
LBRA funds. She brought with her a petition that has 306 signatures.
She was aware that the originals go to the City Council. She stated that
these signatures represented people who were important in impacting the
youth of Lansing. She has seen changes in some areas of Lansing and in
other areas that are currently empty. She has seen some areas change
from residential to professional. She stated that she grew up in Lansing
and moved back here two years ago. She is saddened because she
would love to buy a house in Lansing but she will not. Her idea of moving
and being able to come back home to Lansing is to have a great area to
raise your kids and have good schools. She stated that this has not been
the focus. She stated that if the BTS property is taken away,
opportunities for Eastern to build right next door are not available. She
stated that the School District obviously did not get involved enough. To
build housing, that would cost $175,000 to $225,000 across the street
from houses that range from $30, 000 to $50,000, would work in Detroit
but she strongly emphasized that the City of Lansing needs affordable
housing for everyone. She didn't appreciate the way she was treated at
the BTS meetings especially during the planning process. She is hoping
that if the City of Lansing starts thinking about what's really important,
Lansing could become a world class city but it has to do more for the
youth to keep them here. She stated that the majority of people who work
in Lansing, live outside of Lansing. She would like to see more affordable
housing. She would like to see the houses across the street from
Pennsylvania straightened up, torn down or renovated. She also stated
that there are a lot of other avenues to look at instead of being greedy and
taking away the entire property, especially since Eastern High School is
the only High School that doesn't have a football stadium. She is asking
that everyone take a hard look at what they are doing to make positive
changes, not just for the rich but for those people who really can't afford
anything but might if other options were available to them. She felt that
these options were not being made available.
Cheryl Risner, Director of the Lansing Neighborhood Council,
located at 500 W. Lenawee, Room #319, stated that their office is
currently working with 45 established Neighborhood groups. The two
newest Neighborhood groups come from the south end of town. Old
Everett Neighborhood Association is the first group. This group worked
on actions that were developed as part of the South Side Summit. The
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES January 8, 2002, Page 5
other group is Wood-Mere Neighborhood Council, which includes Starlight
Lane off Waverly Road. This group was organized to deal with issues
regarding housing in their neighborhood. She stated that at this time,
LNC is currently preparing for this year's Bea Christy Awards Dinner that
will be held on Friday, February 151h. Last year over 300 people attended
the dinner. LNC once again is coordinating the Neighborhoods N' Bloom
Program for 2002. Last year with the help of a Bobcat, Steve Widder and
a crew from the Parks Department along with many volunteers, enabled
LNC to unload, sort and organize 2,749 flats of annuals and 368 one-
gallon pots of perennials by 10:30 a.m. After a quick break, the
distribution process began and the flowers were handed out to 25
Neighborhood groups, 28 Neighborhood watches and 5 schools. These
numbers don't represent all the parties who received flowers as some of
the groups work in coordination with other Neighborhood watches and
schools. A special thanks goes to Irene McDonnell-Cahill who furnished,
free of charge, mulch from the Parks Department to all the Neighborhood
groups that requested it. Applications for Neighborhoods N' Bloom
Program were mailed in November 2001 and the deadline was last Friday.
Distribution will be Wednesday, May 291h, at the Lansing City Market. This
year LNC sponsored two seminars on how to get people to use the
internet for crime mapping and basic needs information to tell the people
in their neighborhoods. LNC also co-sponsored a third seminar on the In
Touch Website with Lt. Steve Persons with the Police Dept. and Kris
Nicholoff who is the featured speaker at the LNC Fund Raising seminar in
September. She also stated that the LNC office also worked in
conjunction with the Volunteer Center of Michigan and the 2001 Day of
Caring. This project had close to 500 volunteers who put in nearly 1,700
volunteer hours which represented a financial savings of $26,129 to the
Lansing School District, East Lansing School District, and the Non-profit
community. LNC also coordinated a spring spruce up project that had
teams of volunteers mowing lawns, raking leaves, trimming bushes and
trees, edging sidewalks, cleaning out eaves troughs and washing exterior
windows for low income and/or senior handicapped owners. This project,
though small, made a big impact on the neighborhoods. She thanked the
City of Lansing for their past support of the Lansing Neighborhood Council
and Lansing Neighborhood groups. She also brought with her letters from
Neighborhood groups.
Beverly Wiener, Director of Haven House, located at 311 S. Jenison,
stated that Haven House is a shelter for homeless families. Haven House
is one of about a dozen organizations, shelters and transitional housing
programs that received ESG funds for the homeless. She stated that
Haven House appreciated the City of Lansing's help. She also stated the
need is great and that the City of Lansing should be aware of the need
for current and future times. She explained that Haven House sheltered
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES January 8, 2002, Page 6
more than 100 families last year and that the average stay at Haven
House is about one month. Haven House served 144 adults and 267
children last year. She stated that altogether various programs are
serving hundreds of people every single night and that the need for
affordable housing is really true. She also stated that the City of Lansing
has to deal with a homeless population that is not ready to be in housing
because they don't know where they are going to sleep tonight. Haven
House, in addition to the emergency shelters that serve families, has
some shelters that serve adults, one shelter that serves the youth (ages
16-18), and domestic shelters. She stated that there are many different
categories of the homeless. Haven House also has transitional housing
programs that can work with families for 6 months to 2 years to address
the underlying issues that may have caused some of these families to
become homeless, whether it's domestic assault or not being able to
handle money or losing a job or whatever the reasons are for people
becoming homeless. Haven House may need to work with some of these
families over time to try to keep them out of their shelters in the future.
Haven House appreciated the ESG monies that the various programs had
received. She stated that Haven House will continue to do their work and
that they are out in the community everyday trying to do their best. With
the City's help, Haven House will continue doing their best.
Kris Nicholoff, resident of 2011 Old Oakland (formerly W. Oakland),
stated he is in full support of the package before the Board. If there has
ever been what he views as a vital package of programs, it's what's in
front of the Board. He stated that when you stop and look at some of the
titles that are on these programs (ie. shelter, housing, weatherization),
they speak for themselves. He stated that they adhere to what this
community stands for and what he believes in. He shared a story about
an experience that he had in 1988. He founded the Old Oakland
Neighborhood Association, once called West Oakland Neighborhood
Association. He was fresh out of college and had no idea how to start an
association. But through the assistance and direction of the Lansing
Neighborhood Council, the endeavor was fulfilled and is in place today.
He's very proud of that Neighborhood organization and stated that he still
lives in that neighborhood. He felt that it represented itself and that he
spoke out of experience. He has heard a lot of people speak negatively
about CDBG and the Lansing Neighborhood Council. He stated that
these are not the programs to take shots at and that these are good, solid
programs full of volunteers. These programs have some paid staff but the
volunteers are what make these programs work. He stated that you just
don't push these aside and that you not only keep them, but you enhance
them. He is asking that on behalf of him being a resident and founder of
Old Oakland Organization and still a member today, for support of the
programs proposed before the Board this evening and for those who are
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES January 8, 2002, Page 7
seeking Federal funds. He made a comment about an experience that he
had during the year when he sat at the dias. He heard people voice their
opinions about the Lansing City Council and how the Council is a political
action committee - a PAC. He commented that it was a real leap in logic.
He represents the MI Dental Association and its 5,000 members. He has
one of the larger PACs in the state called Dent PAC and that particular
PAC made direct contributions to State Senators and State
Representatives' campaigns. The Lansing Neighborhood Council doesn't
do anything like that. By no means is the Lansing Neighborhood Council
anything near a political action committee that he's ever been associated
with. To set the record straight, with his interpretation of the way PACs
are, he considered the Lansing Neighborhood Council not one of them.
He hopes that the Board will rally behind this, not just tonight but in years
to come. He stated that it's the right thing to do.
Cathy Robinson, resident of 2625 Gilbert Road, stated she is on the
Board of Directors for Habitat for Humanity and she also Chairs the
Family Committee for Habitat for Humanity. She stated that Habitat for
Humanity was very fortunate last year to receive the funds through CDBG
and that she would like to share how those funds were used. Habitat for
Humanity developed three properties (Grovenberg, Turner and Moffitt)
which allowed them to provide homes for three families. The Grovenberg
property will be dedicated this Sunday to a large family that was forced to
relocate because of domestic violence. The mother's dream for that
family was to have a back yard for her children to play in. On Sunday
when that home is dedicated, she will be able to provide that opportunity
to her children. The mother works full time and does not drive. She
needed to live in a location that was near stores and a bus line and the
Grovenberg property has allowed her to do that. The Moffitt property has
a family who came from horrible living conditions. The house they moved
from was always wet. It had a leaky roof and the windows leaked. There
was always water in the basement. The conditions were not healthy for
the children who lived there. She stated that over 60% of that family's
monthly income went to the landlord and in July, the refrigerator broke
and it was a part of the house when the family rented it. The landlord
refused to fix the refrigerator so the mother went out and was able to
obtain a second hand used refrigerator which, when they moved out of the
property into their new home, the landlord refused to let them take it.
These are typical of the families that Habitat for Humanity serves. She
stated that these families come from living conditions which, in many
cases, mirror the conditions in some of the third world countries that one
might see on TV. Yet, these conditions are right here in our own
community. She stated that Habitat for Humanity is grateful for the CDBG
funding which allowed them to help these three families in 2001.
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES January 8, 2002, Page 8
Judy Hackett, resident of 625 N. Pennsylvania Ave., President of Oak
Park Neighborhood Association, stated that based on some of the prior
people who have spoken, these people do represent other areas (ie. BTS
and the schools) besides the neighborhood. She spoke on behalf of
Lansing Neighborhood Council. She stated that when she looks at
homelessness and the different programming, one of the many things that
the Lansing Neighborhood Council did was they worked with the residents
doing paint blitzes (before the lead based paint became a factor) and
other neighborhood projects. The Lansing Neighborhood Council worked
on things in the neighborhoods. This was one of the avenues to help with
the homelessness and to help keep people out of the shelters. Through
the neighborhood groups and the information the Lansing Neighborhood
Council had received, they have worked in many ways to help neighbors
stay in their homes and to help residents to take care of many of the
problems that might have potentially made them homeless. She feels that
the Lansing Neighborhood Council has done a great service in the
neighborhoods. The Lansing Neighborhood Council has coordinated a lot
of volunteers and the City has benefitted from the volunteer services that
many residents have given in their neighborhoods through these projects.
She would hate to see funding not continue as well as many of the other
worthy programs that are on this list. She stated that Ms. Johnson of
Ferris Development has been working with the neighborhood, and with
her help and MSHDA, things are being rehabilitated. She stated that
Ferris Development has acquired the property across from Eastern High
School and that it is being considered for rehabilitation in the near future.
She stated that all of the programs need paid support staff. Based on the
monies that go into these programs, she feels that the volunteer hours
have raised the awareness of many issues in the City and that the
neighborhoods have out weighed any costs that the Lansing
Neighborhood Council has had.
Kathie Dunbar, resident of 1334 Boston Blvd., President of Sagamore
Hills Neighborhood Organization, just wanted to give her support for the
Lansing Neighborhood Council and the use of CDBG funding. She would
not consider this group a political action committee. She stated that the
Lansing Neighborhood Council has done a lot and considered it more of a
charitable group rather than an organizational and supportive group. She
also stated the Sagamore Hills Neighborhood Organization had been
organized under their supervision. She had no idea how to create an
organization and found them to be a benefit and a resource. She had
used them like she had used the Neighborhood Watch Advisory Board.
She stated that the Sagamore Hills Neighborhood Organization was a
combination between an Association and a Watch and that she would not
consider any of the money they used to be politically oriented. She also
stated that some of the objections may have come from the fact that
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES January 8, 2002, Page 9
people who belong to that organization or someone who might sit on the
Board of that organization or who are members of or affiliated with that
Neighborhood Association occasionally have opinions but it doesn't
necessarily mean that decision is a reflection of the Lansing
Neighborhood Council. She also stated that it doesn't mean that these
people represent the Lansing Neighborhood Council do not have anything
to say. She really wanted to stress that by her joining an organization or
forming an Association and being a part of the Lansing Neighborhood
Council doesn't allow her to give up her rights as an individual to come
down here and have an opinion on a matter be it before City Council or
before the Board. She didn't think that she should be stripped of her
rights individually because she has chosen to bond as a group. She
emphasized her support in keeping these groups funded through CDBG
money and stated that they are a great resource for the City.
Monica Zuchowski, resident of 320 N. Walnut, President of the
Lansing Neighborhood Council and President of the Downtown
Neighborhood Association, stated that DNA will be considering
tomorrow evening a resolution in support of the CDBG funding proposal.
She stated that in the past they have been very supportive of the funding
across the board specifically with the funds to the Lansing Neighborhood
Council. When she started on the Board as a member of the Lansing
Neighborhood Council, she had no concept of everything that the
volunteers or the paid staff did in that office. She stated it is a shame that
some folks who have chosen to criticize the Lansing Neighborhood
Council Organization and it's staff really don't understand what the
organization does. She also stated the someone really doesn't know what
an organization is all about until you're actually on the inside. Funding
comes from several places, both CDBG and general funds. She stated
the Lansing Neighborhood Council is very aware of the programs that are
operating with CDBG funds and that these funds can be used for those
programs. The Lansing Neighborhood Council is very aware of the items
that funds must be expended for out of the general fund. She stated that
the Lansing Neighborhood Council is also aware of a Neighborhood group
in the Groesback area that crosses the line between the City of Lansing
and the Lansing Township and how they have to be very careful that
resources from the City, especially the CDBG funds, do not cross that
line. She gave the example of Neighborhoods N' Bloom. The Lansing
Neighborhood Council operates in good faith with the rules not in spite of
the rules. She stated that one of the earlier speakers insinuated that a
number of Neighborhood people, if not all, take marching orders from
Carol Wood. Considering some of the discussions that she & Carol have
had in the past 7 - 8 years, she felt Ms. Wood would find it surprising if
she was taking marching orders. She stated that if people would take the
time to talk with the Neighborhood groups and the group leaders, they
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES January 8, 2002, Page 10
would understand it is a constant struggle to be an active volunteer and
that the Lansing Neighborhood Council does what they do out of the
goodness of their hearts because they care. The CDBG funding helps
make it possible for the Lansing Neighborhood Council to provide
assistance to all the Neighborhood groups. She stated that there are
possibly 45 plus Neighborhood groups and there are new ones being
talked about every day. These Neighborhood groups are City wide. She
also stated that the CDBG funds and the general funds help the Lansing
Neighborhood Council to do their jobs. She appreciated the support of
the funding in the past and encouraged the continuation of funding for the
future.
Kevin Webb, resident of 528 W. Grand River Ave., Vice President of
the Lansing Neighborhood Council and President of the Old Forest
Neighborhood Association, stated that he does not take marching
orders from anybody especially when it comes to 510 W. Willow and
some of the things that have been done. Nor does he take any orders
from Carol Wood. He stated the only people who were paid by the
Lansing Neighborhood Council were the staff. He has never received any
payment or remunertion of any kind nor did he know if any of the other
Board members have and he doesn't intend to. He stated the work that is
being done by the Lansing Neighborhood Council is tireless hours. These
are things that, quite honestly, he had wondered why he continued on.
He's lived in Lansing for 9 years now and wanted to make the City a better
place to live. Before this, he lived in Grand Ledge. He stated that the City
of Lansing can continue to bring things back instead of having everyone
move out to the suburbs. He stated that there were comments made
regarding contracts that he signed for the Lansing Neighborhood Council.
He made it clear that there is only one person who can sign contracts and
that is the Director. He stated that he only signs as a Notary on a
contract. He commented that some of the statements which had been
made were off the wall and totally unnecessary. He felt it was totally
uncalled for to have people make continuous attacks without coming to
and being part of Neighborhood groups. He has been a part of the
Neighborhood group for over 2 years now and has never seen Belinda
Fitzpatrick, Christine Timmon or any of the other people come forward.
Had they stepped forward, he would have asked them what they had
done on a volunteer basis for any of the Neighborhood groups or any
other group on a volunteer basis in the last 12 months or the last 36
months. He stated that none of them would have been able to stand up
and say that they had done anything for a Neighborhood group. He
stated that there are a lot of people that do volunteer work at the Lansing
Neighborhood Council.
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES January 8, 2002, Page 11
Charlene Decker, resident of 2711 Pleasant Grove Road, stated that
her neighborhood has an Association. One of the original battles that her
neighborhood had was a developer coming into the area. There was a
special area which had flooded a number of homes. She stated that it
was forested land and had a lot of animal habitations, which she found on
her own. The land had been looked over and surveyed; it was considered
a wetland. This was how she became part of the Neighborhood
Association and she gave as much time as she could give. She has no
quarrel with the good works that have been done with the Neighborhood
Associations. She made it very clear that the City needs these groups
and that they do well. The only objections that she had was the work is
hard and the people do volunteer. She volunteers for other things besides
the Neighborhood Association. She stated that she doesn't have to
apologize for not being a steady member of the Neighborhood Association
or joining with them on things because she does her own volunteering and
that it is for her to know. She clearly understands what volunteering is all
about. She stated that it's time-consuming and that she applauds those
who do volunteer. The only thing she is requesting (and she stated that it
isn't something that can be made a law or a rule) is to take into
consideration when a statement is made for any Neighborhood
Association, individually or as a whole, do not give the perceived
conception that these represent all the neighbors. The Lansing
Neighborhood Association is not an elective body as a whole throughout
the City. Whatever is decided within the Neighborhood Association
meetings, is only within that group. There is a time to say "Yeah, I agree
we should do this or this is the way it should be." This is fine but she is
asking please do not have the misconception that everyone in this huge,
large neighborhood agrees on that vote. This gives a wrong impression of
things. She stated that many of the things that have been done, in the
name of the Neighborhood Association, she has agreed with and that
there were some to which she disagreed. She doesn't want the
conception that the majority in the neighborhood agreed or that it was by
minority only.
Mr. Frederick stated that the Urban Development Committee of the
Planning Board will meet Tuesday, January 29, 2002 at 4:00 p.m. to
discuss the proposed objectives, goals and projected use of funds
presented this evening. The meeting will be held in the Building Safety
Conference Room of the Department of Planning and Neighborhood
Development, located at 316 N. Capitol Avenue (North Capitol Ramp).
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES January 8, 2002, Page 12
B. LS-18-2001, 6330 Cooper Road, Lots 40 and 41 Supervisor's Plat of
Radio Estates
This is a request by Kurt Boegner to divide a 30,720 square foot parcel
located at the 6330 Cooper Road. This parcel consists of two lots (Lots
40 and 41 Supervisor's Plat of Radio Estates) as depicted on the attached
parcel map. The applicant desires to divide this parcel into two lots. The
existing house would be located on one lot which would be 72 feet in
width (Parcel A). The other lot would be 56 feet in width (Parcel B). It is
necessary for the lot with the house to be wider so that this structure
would be in compliance with the side yard setback requirement.
John Hodges gave a brief overview.
Ms. Foster questioned whether or not this split would create a hardship on
the lot. Mr. Hodges commented that the lot split would accommodate a
46' wide house.
Mr. Ruge questioned how the new house would be oriented. Mr. Hodges
stated that the applicant would have to maintain the average set back for
the other existing structures within 180' of the property being developed.
Mr. Hodges also stated that the other houses were not too far off and that
there is a relatively consistent development pattern on that street in
general.
The applicant stated that he did not see the need to address the Board.
Referred to the Zoning and Ordinance Committee which will meet at the
recess tonight.
C. Z-19-2001, Lot 4 of Block 2, M. Carey's First Addition located
immeditely east of 622 and 614 Carey Street, "B" Residential to "C"
Residential District
This is a request by Erich Speckin, to rezone the property measuring 66 ft.
wide x 165 ft. deep, located immediately east of 622 and 614 Carey
Street, and more particularly described as:
Lot 4 of Block 2, M. Carey's First Addition to the City of Lansing,
Ingham County, Michigan according to the recorded plat thereof as
recorded in Liber 1 of Plats, page 2, Ingham County Records.
from "B" Residential to "C" Residential District. The applicant proposes to
build a duplex on the subject property. The applicant also owns the lot
east of lot 4, which measures 68 ft. wide x 165 ft. deep and is currently
zoned "C" Residential which allows for the development of a duplex.
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES January 8, 2002, Page 13
Sue Stachowiak gave a brief overview.
There was a general discussion regarding code requirements and set
back issues. Ms. Stachowiak explained that the minimum set back is the
average of the houses within 180 feet within the same block and on the
same side of the street and that the applicant could situate the house
further back, if preferred.
Tom Knoy represented the applicant. He presented a narrative report
to the Board. He stated that they exceed the minimum requirements for
the square footage of the lot space and that they will be able to meet all
the set back requirements. A variance may not be necessary at this time.
There was a discussion as to whether or not Mr. Knoy or the applicant
would occupy either of these properties. Mr. Knoy stated that occupying
the properties is not the intent of the applicant and that the property will be
developed for a duplex and used as a rental.
Sherrie Guess, resident of 601 Carey Street, expressed her concerns
and stated that she did not agree with a zoning change that would be
inconsistent with the neighborhood as it is now, particularly when she
discovered that the owner does not intend to occupy any of the properties
that he is proposing to build. She stated that it is not a valid reason to
grant a zoning change in order to develop duplex rentals.
Referred to the Zoning and Ordinance Committee.
D. SLU-9-01 & ACT-29-2001, 1429 E. Miller Road, New Fire Station
The applicant is requesting a special permit to allow construction of a fire
station at 1429 E. Miller Road, (immediately east to the AT&T office), to
replace the existing station at 5550 S. Pennsylvania. ACT-29-01 is an
associated application relating to the proposed acquisition of this site by
the City.
An application to rezone this parcel and the property to the east is
currently under review. The applicant is requesting that the rezoning
application be amended for the property to be rezoned to the "D-1"
Professional Office District, as compared to "H" Light Industrial District
originally requested.
John Hodges gave a brief overview.
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES January 8, 2002, Page 14
There was a general discussion about the layout of the fire station being
similar to the fire station on Pleasant Grove. The layout is the same with
a few minor modifications.
Greg Martin, Lansing Fire Department, Fire Chief, 120 E. Shiawassee,
introduced Craig Jansen (Capitol Consultants), Jim Aubuchon (Architect,
Keystone Design Group), Chuck Willis (Assistant Fire Chief, Project
Manager for Fire Station 6), and Susan Anderson (Fire Board Chair).
Chief Martin stated that the Lansing Fire Department is trying to replicate
the existing station in terms of design. The internal studies indicated that
by placing a fire station in the new location, in conjunction with responses
from the other south side stations, the Fire Department should be able to
cover the entire south side of Lansing in a 4 minute or better response
time which he considered excellent by any standards. He stated that the
size of the new station is similar to Fire Station 6 and will allow the Fire
Department to house a ladder truck in that area of town. His concerns for
responses in that area of town as well as fire fighter safety are geared
toward the current Fire Station 4. He gave the example that if the Fire
Department is responding to a fire and headed south, the fire fighters tend
to be at that fire scene by themselves longer than the Chief would like.
He stated that, by having more apparatus at the new fire station, it will
enhance safety for the citizens and the fire fighters. He also stated that it
is a rapid growing side of town both commercially and with new multi-
family properties being developed. He also stated that similar to the
existing Fire Station 6, the new fire station will have a community/class
room that would be available for the public to use for meetings as well as
uses for the Fire Department as a classroom. The Fire Board, with Chair
Susan Anderson as well as the Building Committee (Ken Balzer), have
reviewed a number of sites on the south side and have approved this as a
location for the new fire station. In reference to the Special Land Use
application, he stated there was a zoning issue. He has other fire stations
that are in the same situation where they have an Special Land Use
because they are in a residential area. With all of the stations, he felt the
neighborhoods would agree that the Fire Department tries to be very good
neighbors and that the Fire Department would strive to do this at the new
location. Mr. Ruff specified that the height restriction for a tower is around
35 feet. Chief Martin indicated that the Fire Department would like to
move a tower (approximately 150 feet in height) from its existing location
to the new location and asked if that would be a possibility. Mr. Ruff
stated that the tower would have to be addressed separately because of a
variance issue which will need to go before the Board of Zoning and
Appeals. Chief Martin explained that there is a tower at Fire Station 4.
The tower is not used by the Lansing Fire Department nor Lansing Police
Department. Currently, this tower is being used as part of the Ingham
County 911 Center, which is based in the Police building. The tower is
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES January 8, 2002, Page 15
used to dispatch some of the County Fire Departments. The Lansing Fire
Department, the Lansing Police Department and other County Police and
Fire agencies are in a joint study to upgrade and integrate the County's
Police and Fire radio system. A site in this portion of the City could be
critical to receive radio signals from portable or mobile units and relay
them back to the respective 911 Centers. Chief Martin is not sure at this
time if the Fire Department would need a tower. He wanted to present it
up front and start the application process rather than getting into the
situation of possibly selling Fire Station 4 and then wondering what to do
with that site. Chief Martin stated that a better solution would be to have
the tower at the new property.
There was a general discussion about a construction time table. Chief
Martin stated that they are still at the internal review process and it may
take another 4 months to go out to bid.
Loretta Stanaway, resident of 546 Armstrong Road, previously
objected to a proposal to relocate this busy station to the old Richter
Gardens site located on South Cedar because of traffic safety concerns,
response time concerns, cost concerns, neighbor concerns, and concerns
with the long term agenda of Chief Martin geared towards closing and
consolidating from 9 down to 6 thereby increasing response time city
wide. She stated that the Miller Road site is a vast improvement over the
Richter site and that it satisfactorily addresses the traffic safety concerns
and the neighbor concerns of the people on Spokane and the adjoining
residential areas. However, she is not sure how well it mitigates response
time concerns since present average response times at that station for
80% of the coverage area is now in the area of 3 minutes. She stated
that Chief Martin is saying the new site would achieve an average
response time of 4 minutes for 90% of its coverage area. She also stated
that Chief Martin did not specify how he made that determination or what
the times will be for the remaining 10% of that service area. Also
unaddressed is whether or not he would then redraw the first response
circles for that station and other stations and/or whether he would
reassign equipment or personnel from other stations to that new site. This
site apparently would have the affect of nearly doubling response times to
the extreme northern and northwestern portions of that station's current
coverage areas. East Miller would be significantly more cost effective
than the Richter site and that in purchase and preparation costs alone, the
Miller site is a minimum $468,640 cheaper than the Richter site. Any day
the City can save nearly a half million dollars sounds like a victory for the
citizens and taxpayers. However, she has not heard any cost projections
yet for developing Station 4 at the East Miller site. She still has concerns
about Chief Martin's long term agenda which appears to be geared toward
consolidating and reducing stations City wide. Instead of 9 well located
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES January 8, 2002, Page 16
stations, there would be 6. Three of which would be the look-a-like drive
through McFire station design, seen at the new Station 6 site at Pleasant
Grove and Jolly Road. By insisting on using the same design for all 3 of
the relocations, Chief Martin is in affect driving up the costs by virtue of
needing more land and more building structure than is actually required
for each of these stations to fulfull their missions.
Joanne Manshum, resident of 6335 Marscot, Neighborhood Watch
Coordinator for the Marscot neighborhood, would like to express her
concerns and have them considered.
1. Noise could pose a problem because there are a great deal
of seniors in her complex and there is a foster home for
seniors located on Noburn Way.
2. Traffic makes it very difficult to turn onto the main road from
Marscot.
3. Speed limit is posted at 30 mph; vehicles are moving faster
in this area.
4. The third lane is being used as a passing lane. This could
pose a problem.
5. There are many cars exiting from the industrial site. Heavy
flow of traffic between 3:00 - 5:00 p.m.
6. Good to have a fire station close by but would anyone want
to have a fire station right across the street from them?
Referred SLU-9-2001 and ACT-29-2001 to the Committee of the Whole which
hopes to take this up at the January 22, 2002 meeting.
5. COMMENTS FROM THE AUDIENCE
Loretta Stanaway, continued with her comments on the fire station issues.
There was more building & structure being drawn in to this than there was a
need for. It is not possible in her opinion to foresee a time when one station site
would house 6 pieces of equipment or need 16 dormitory rooms, let alone, 60
feet of grass buffer on the side. However, buying land sized appropriately to
allow for potential future expansion did make sense to her. Building that degree
of expansion in from the start, does not. A concern that she had, especially after
she read the Lansing State Journal article about the proposal, is an apparent
error in the paper regarding the cost of the land. The cost of the land was
$261,360. She also stated that it is debatable whether Station 4 could be
renovated. Chief Martin has expressed his interest in moving a ladder truck from
Station 9 to wherever Station 4 relocates. To her, it did not make sense. A
ladder truck is used in areas where there are multiple floor high rise buildings.
There are more of those in the Station 9 service area. In her opinion, Station 9
area is in more of a need than in the residential and retail area in Station 4. If
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES January 8, 2002, Page 17
the ladder truck is moved, who will be driving it? Is Chief Martin going to
reassign personnel? Moving new equipment into the area does not pose a
problem since the Mayor has frozen an order for 3 new fire trucks and 1
ambulance. She also stated that the paper listed the cost of the new Station 6
as being $2 million. Her understanding was that the price was closer to $2.2
million. She was under the impression that there was room at the old Station 6
site to renovate on site but it was Chief Martin's choice not to do so. She stated
now they are talking about taking a $65,000 loss. She specified that the City
should give the citizens a world class Fire Department, Police Department and
roads.
Gerald Dunn, resident of 6218 Marscot, expressed his concerns regarding the
budget. Businesses are laying off employees and making appropriations without
consideration of needs. He questioned whether the larger stations would reduce
the number of stations, thus increasing response time.
6. RECESS was taken by the Board.
7. BUSINESS SESSION
A. Ms. Keene moved; seconded by Ms. Patrick to approve the minutes of
December 4, 2001 with corrections to page 4.
On a Voice Vote, the motion carried unanimously. APPROVED
B. Committee Reports
1. ZONING AND ORDINANCE COMMITTEE Mr. Ruge, Chair
Referred LS-18-2001 to the Committee of the Whole.
Next meeting, Wednesday, January 16, 2002 at 4:00 p.m.
316 N. Capitol Ave., Department Conference Room.
2. URBAN DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE, Ms. Patrick, Chair
Next meeting, Tuesday, January 29, 2002, at 4:00 p.m.
316 N. Capitol Ave., Department Conference Room.
Mr. Ruge made a motion; seconded by Ms. Keene to dissolve into
the Committee of the Whole.
On a Voice Vote, the motion carried.
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES January 8, 2002, Page 18
3a. Committee of the Whole
1. LS-18-2001, 6330 Cooper Road, Lots 40 and 41
Supervisor's Plat of Radio Estates
This is a request by Kurt Boegner to divide a 30,720 square
foot parcel located at the 6330 Cooper Road. This parcel
consists of two lots (Lots 40 and 41 Supervisor's Plat of
Radio Estates) as depicted on the attached parcel map.
The applicant desires to divide this parcel into two lots. The
existing house would be located on one lot which would be
72 feet in width (Parcel A). The other lot would be 56 feet in
width (Parcel B). It is necessary for the lot with the house to
be wider so that this structure would be in compliance with
the side yard setback requirement.
John Hodges presented additional information to show that
the lots were platted at 1:2.75 at 64' wide.
Mr. Ruge made a motion, seconded by Mr. Frederick to approve LS-18-2001, 6330
Cooper Road, Lots 40 and 41 Supervisor's Plat of Radio Estates with the condition
that the front yard parking and joint drive be eliminated if the property is sold or
developed.
On a Voice Vote, the motion carried.
Ms. Keene made a motion, seconded by Mr. Frederick to arise from the Committee of
the Whole.
On a Voice Vote, the motion carried.
3b. Committee of the Whole, Mr. Smith, Chair
1 . LS-18-2001, 6330 Cooper Road, Lots 40 and 41
Supervisor's Plat of Radio Estates.
PLANNING BOARD ACTION on the motion was as follows:
Mr. Smith made a motion, seconded by Ms. Foster to approve LS-18-2001, 6330
Cooper Road, Lots 40 and 41 Supervisor's Plat of Radio Estates with the condition
that the front yard parking and joint drive be eliminated if the property is sold or
developed.
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES January 8, 2002, Page 19
Frederick . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Aye Foster. . . Ave
Patrick. . .Ave Smith . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ave
Keene. . .Ave Ruge . .Ave
On a Roll call vote, there were: Ayes: 6; Nays: 0; carried; unanimous;
APPROVED
4. Executive Committee - none
8. REPORT FROM PLANNING MANAGER
Mr. Ruff discussed the following:
1. Letters to Old Town Main Street & Catering Company
2. Interviews for Senior Planner Position begin this week
3. Wolverine Pipeline - Hearing to be set for March
4. Possible Training
9. PENDING ITEMS (future action required)
1. Zoning and Ordinance Committee
a. Z-1-96, 1223 N. I urner St.,"H" Light Industrial District to"G-1" Business District
b. �Tabled February 11, 1998)
-5-98,401-407 E. Grand River, "F"Commercial District to"G-1" Business
District(Tabled June 10, 1998)
C. Z-8-2000, 3901 S. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.,"F"Commercial to"H" Light
Industrial District(Tabled June 14,2000)
d. Z-15-2000, 301 W. Lenawee Street, Professional Office to"G-1" Business
District(Tabled January 17, 2001
e. P-1-2001,Tentative Preliminary lat,Wexford Woods (Tabled June 13, May 9,
2001)
f. PRD-2-01,"Crystal Woods", Planned Residential Neighborhood (Tabled August
15,2001)
g. Z-8-01,Willoughby Rd.,"A" Residential to"DM-1"Residential,"D-1"Professional
Office and"C" Residential (Tabled October 10, 2001
h. SLU-6-01, 517-519 E. Grand River Ave., Church in"F-1"Commercial District
(Tabled November 14,2001)
i. SLU-8-01, 3000 W. Miller Road,Additional Parking for an Existing Church
(Tabled November 14,2001)
2. Urban Development Committee
a. Act-9-2000,201 E. Grand River Avenue, Proj.Sign Over ROW (Tabled June 27,
2000)
b. Discussion of Comprehensive Planning Process.
3. Committee of the Whole
4. Planninq Board
a. Act-12-01, 5550 S. Pennsylvania-Market Fire Station for Salem (Tabled July 3,
2001).
b. Act-13-01,4801 S. Cedar Street,Acquire for Fire Station (tabled July 3,2001).
10. NEW BUSINESS
A. Planning Office Work Program and Budget for FY 2003. Materials
handed out and the Board desired to act on it on January 22, 2002.
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES January 8, 2002, Page 20
11. COMMENTS FROM CHAIRPERSON
Mr. Frederick requested an excused absence for the next meeting.
Mr. Ruge made a motion, seconded by Ms. Keene to approve Mr. Frederick's
excused absence.
On a Voice Vote, the motion carried.
12. COMMENTS FROM BOARD MEMBERS
Mr. Ruge commented that he liked the minutes being shorter.
Mr. Ruge found out that signs with moving letters are allowed in the City.
Mr. Ruge commented on a Charter School occupying a building in the industrial
area off of Grand River by the airport. He noticed that the building was still
vacant and was requesting information. No information was available.
Ms. Patrick requested information as to why so many trucks and containers were
parked in the south Meijer parking lot. Ms. Stachowiak gave an overview of the
construction project. There was general discussion.
Mr. Ruge questioned the Deja Vu construction. A brief discussion followed.
13. ADJOURNMENT - Meeting was adjourned at 9:50 p.m.
Respec Ily submitted
James A. Ruff, SecreFary�,�Planniing Board
PB Minutes.010802.wpd
Draft to Clerk January 22,2001
Approved 2001
To Clerk 2001
Minutes of the Regular Meeting
LANSING PLANNING BOARD
7:00 p.m., Tenth Floor, Council Chambers
Lansing City Hall
Tuesday, January 8, 2002
1. OPENING SESSION
The meeting was called to order at 7:02 p.m. by Chairman Frederick.
A. Roll call. Present: Frederick, Foster, Keene, Patrick, Smith, Ruge.
B. Staff Attending: Ruff, Stachowiak, Hodges, Witherspoon
C. Excused absences: Ms. Cordill. It was moved by Mr. Ruge, supported by
Ms. Keene to approve the absence.
2. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
It was moved to approve the agenda as amended. On a Voice Vote, motion
carried unanimously (6-0).
3. COMMUNICATIONS
There were added Communications from:
A. Christine Timmon regarding the CDBG hearing
B. Almus Thorp to Lansing Planning Board strongly supporting the
continued use of CDBG and HOME grants
C. Notes from Bill Rieske regarding an article from the Lansing State
Journal that pertains to Act-29-2001 and an organizational chart for
Master Plan to replace the previous chart
D. MDEQ Notice of Public Hearing for an Air Quality permit for a GM
Plant in the Lansing Township
4. PUBLIC HEARINGS
A. Proposed Objectives Goals and Projected Use of Community
Development Fund Resources including Community Development
Block Grant, HOME and Emergency Shelter Grant Programs, FY
2002-2003
Ms. Witherspoon gave a brief overview.
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES January 8, 2002, Page 2
Ms. Christine Timmon, resident of 339 E. St. Joseph, expressed her
concern regarding the Game Show Grant given to the Lansing
Neighborhood Council. She stated that the Red Cross and all the
Emergency Shelter Grants have been seriously cutting back services for
truly needy people. She did not believe that the intent of the Community
Development Block Grants was intended to pay the Director's salary of
$32,073; Clerk's salary of over $22,000; Secretary's salary of over
$22,000; $10,000 for another person; over $3,000 for retirement; over
$2,000 for retirement for the assistant; taxes are over $7,000; plus health
insurance, workman's comp, and all the operating expenses are paid as
well. This comes to a total of$125,000, with $4,000 for undetermined
expenses. At this point in time, she feels if any money is held by the
CDBG for taxes for this group and for retirement that the money should be
put back into the Community Development fund. She stated that the
ESGs are in serious need. You might have seen Channel 6 or Channel
10. Both channels were showing the homeless people. These are people
who have a sound mind and they can get a good job. The intent was not
to fund a private 501(c)(3). They have violated this contract repeatedly.
There is a clause, #28 Conflict of Interest, that states they are not
supposed to come to this podium or any avenue and bring anything
before Congress, the Senate, or the City Council that has to do with
supporting or defeating legislation. She turned in a 200 page legal brief to
the US Inspector General along with video tape regarding this issue. She
feels that it's time that you, as a group of people, put this to an end. This
is one of the reasons for recall of the quorum of the Lansing City Council.
No private 501(c)(3)s should be established with these funds. She had
thought that these private 501(c)(3)s were already established and then
they come to the City to get money to help incoming clients for shoes,
clothes, and heat. She had no idea that retirement, all these salaries,
Workman's Comp, and health insurance were included. She stated it
wasn't right and that was not the intent. She stated that there was a
recent issue like this in another city that included the Mayor, a City Council
member and others who were arrested for the misuse of these Federal
funds. She stated that if this isn't stopped, she's going to find these
Federal agents and send them the same items that she had sent to the
US Inspector General. She commented that the US Inspector General
clarified that this is regulation and that they'd have to catch people doing
this over and over again. She made it clear that at this point, she is ready
for it to end.
Belinda Fitzpatrick, resident of 224 S. Holmes Street, stated that it
causes her great distress and disappointment that concerned citizens
such as herself find themselves to be outsiders regarding the Lansing
Neighborhood Council. She doesn't feel welcome in any of the
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES January 8, 2002, Page 3
Neighborhood Association meetings and doesn't feel welcome to take part
in anything that these agencies do because again and again she had
locked horns with them. She stated that she would rather put her efforts
towards working together with other people to try to make this a better
community. She has chosen to invest every dime she owns into this
community. She's very concerned about how the Lansing Neighborhood
Council is being turned into a political action committee being used by
Council members. She strongly believes that Carol Wood is the key
Council Member that is facilitating this. She believes that this is a misuse
of Federal Funds to turn the Lansing Neighborhood Council and
Neighborhood Associations into a political action committee being used by
the City Council to suppress other voices in the community. She gave two
examples:
1. An item currently pending before the City Council: She stated that
the City Council wishes to stop the broadcast of the public
comment portion of the meeting. She also stated that the City
Council is justifying this based on the fact that they heard this
desire from the community. She stated that they heard this from
the members of the Neighborhood Association with whom Carol
Wood networks. It is Ms. Fitzpatrick's belief that Ms. Wood planted
supporters in those groups to make this an issue so she could
come back to the City Council and use this as a reason for
justification to stop the broadcast of the public comment altogether.
2. She also believes that the Boys' Training School property was
another time where voices in the community were suppressed by
using this facade of the Neighborhood Associations and
Neighborhood groups. She stated that these groups gave the
impression that they were representatives of the community. She
stated that they are not representatives of the community. She
thinks the City of Lansing needs to do one of two things: either you
need to do something to end this network being used as a political
action committee or you need to cut out other Federal funds and
just say no more Federal funds.
Martina Johnson, of Ferris Development, 820 N. Capital, gave thanks
and appreciation to the City of Lansing for the CDBG funding. Because of
their partnership with the City, they have been able to rehabilitate and
develop 55 units of housing for sale and rental. Currently, they have 70
units under the rehabilitation process. She thanked the City of Lansing for
providing the CDBG funding that helps them administratively. They
currently have 11 people on staff. Through this funding, they offer a Pre-
purchased Home Buyer Counseling Class twice a month. She
encouraged the City of Lansing to continue their support with the Local
Initiative Support Corporation who in turn supports their organization.
Again, she thanked the City of Lansing for their continued support for their
organization and in providing affordable housing in Lansing.
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES January 8, 2002, Page 4
Michelle Canfield, resident of 3532 Callihan Court, Apt. #2, agreed
with Ms. Timmon and Ms. Fitzpatrick that the Neighborhood Associations,
from her experience especially with the BTS property, didn't allow
community members that actually lived in the neighborhoods to participate
in the decision making process. She stated that the neighbors wanted to
be a part of it. The BTS property has been vacant for over 50 years and
now it has been labeled a "blighted" site and was going to be fixed with
LBRA funds. She brought with her a petition that has 306 signatures.
She was aware that the originals go to the City Council. She stated that
these signatures represented people who were important in impacting the
youth of Lansing. She has seen changes in some areas of Lansing and in
other areas that are currently empty. She has seen some areas change
from residential to professional. She stated that she grew up in Lansing
and moved back here two years ago. She is saddened because she
would love to buy a house in Lansing but she will not. Her idea of moving
and being able to come back home to Lansing is to have a great area to
raise your kids and have good schools. She stated that this has not been
the focus. She stated that if the BTS property is taken away,
opportunities for Eastern to build right next door are not available. She
stated that the School District obviously did not get involved enough. To
build housing, that would cost $175,000 to $225,000 across the street
from houses that range from $30, 000 to $50,000, would work in Detroit
but she strongly emphasized that the City of Lansing needs affordable
housing for everyone. She didn't appreciate the way she was treated at
the BTS meetings especially during the planning process. She is hoping
that if the City of Lansing starts thinking about what's really important,
Lansing could become a world class city but it has to do more for the
youth to keep them here. She stated that the majority of people who work
in Lansing, live outside of Lansing. She would like to see more affordable
housing. She would like to see the houses across the street from
Pennsylvania straightened up, torn down or renovated. She also stated
that there are a lot of other avenues to look at instead of being greedy and
taking away the entire property, especially since Eastern High School is
the only High School that doesn't have a football stadium. She is asking
that everyone take a hard look at what they are doing to make positive
changes, not just for the rich but for those people who really can't afford
anything but might if other options were available to them. She felt that
these options were not being made available.
Cheryl Risner, Director of the Lansing Neighborhood Council,
located at 500 W. Lenawee, Room #319, stated that their office is
currently working with 45 established Neighborhood groups. The two
newest Neighborhood groups come from the south end of town. Old
Everett Neighborhood Association is the first group. This group worked
on actions that were developed as part of the South Side Summit. The
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES January 8, 2002, Page 5
other group is Wood-Mere Neighborhood Council, which includes Starlight
Lane off Waverly Road. This group was organized to deal with issues
regarding housing in their neighborhood. She stated that at this time,
LNC is currently preparing for this year's Bea Christy Awards Dinner that
will be held on Friday, February 151h. Last year over 300 people attended
the dinner. LNC once again is coordinating the Neighborhoods N' Bloom
Program for 2002. Last year with the help of a Bobcat, Steve Widder and
a crew from the Parks Department along with many volunteers, enabled
LNC to unload, sort and organize 2,749 flats of annuals and 368 one-
gallon pots of perennials by 10:30 a.m. After a quick break, the
distribution process began and the flowers were handed out to 25
Neighborhood groups, 28 Neighborhood watches and 5 schools. These
numbers don't represent all the parties who received flowers as some of
the groups work in coordination with other Neighborhood watches and
schools. A special thanks goes to Irene McDonnell-Cahill who furnished,
free of charge, mulch from the Parks Department to all the Neighborhood
groups that requested it. Applications for Neighborhoods N' Bloom
Program were mailed in November 2001 and the deadline was last Friday.
Distribution will be Wednesday, May 29`h, at the Lansing City Market. This
year LNC sponsored two seminars on how to get people to use the
internet for crime mapping and basic needs information to tell the people
in their neighborhoods. LNC also co-sponsored a third seminar on the In
Touch Website with Lt. Steve Persons with the Police Dept. and Kris
Nicholoff who is the featured speaker at the LNC Fund Raising seminar in
September. She also stated that the LNC office also worked in
conjunction with the Volunteer Center of Michigan and the 2001 Day of
Caring. This project had close to 500 volunteers who put in nearly 1,700
volunteer hours which represented a financial savings of$26,129 to the
Lansing School District, East Lansing School District, and the Non-profit
community. LNC also coordinated a spring spruce up project that had
teams of volunteers mowing lawns, raking leaves, trimming bushes and
trees, edging sidewalks, cleaning out eaves troughs and washing exterior
windows for low income and/or senior handicapped owners. This project,
though small, made a big impact on the neighborhoods. She thanked the
City of Lansing for their past support of the Lansing Neighborhood Council
and Lansing Neighborhood groups. She also brought with her letters from
Neighborhood groups.
Beverly Wiener, Director of Haven House, located at 311 S. Jenison,
stated that Haven House is a shelter for homeless families. Haven House
is one of about a dozen organizations, shelters and transitional housing
programs that received ESG funds for the homeless. She stated that
Haven House appreciated the City of Lansing's help. She also stated the
need is great and that the City of Lansing should be aware of the need
for current and future times. She explained that Haven House sheltered
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES January 8, 2002, Page 6
more than 100 families last year and that the average stay at Haven
House is about one month. Haven House served 144 adults and 267
children last year. She stated that altogether various programs are
serving hundreds of people every single night and that the need for
affordable housing is really true. She also stated that the City of Lansing
has to deal with a homeless population that is not ready to be in housing
because they don't know where they are going to sleep tonight. Haven
House, in addition to the emergency shelters that serve families, has
some shelters that serve adults, one shelter that serves the youth (ages
16-18), and domestic shelters. She stated that there are many different
categories of the homeless. Haven House also has transitional housing
programs that can work with families for 6 months to 2 years to address
the underlying issues that may have caused some of these families to
become homeless, whether it's domestic assault or not being able to
handle money or losing a job or whatever the reasons are for people
becoming homeless. Haven House may need to work with some of these
families over time to try to keep them out of their shelters in the future.
Haven House appreciated the ESG monies that the various programs had
received. She stated that Haven House will continue to do their work and
that they are out in the community everyday trying to do their best. With
the City's help, Haven House will continue doing their best.
Kris Nicholoff, resident of 2011 Old Oakland (formerly W. Oakland),
stated he is in full support of the package before the Board. If there has
ever been what he views as a vital package of programs, it's what's in
front of the Board. He stated that when you stop and look at some of the
titles that are on these programs (ie. shelter, housing, weatherization),
they speak for themselves. He stated that they adhere to what this
community stands for and what he believes in. He shared a story about
an experience that he had in 1988. He founded the Old Oakland
Neighborhood Association, once called West Oakland Neighborhood
Association. He was fresh out of college and had no idea how to start an
association. But through the assistance and direction of the Lansing
Neighborhood Council, the endeavor was fulfilled and is in place today.
He's very proud of that Neighborhood organization and stated that he still
lives in that neighborhood. He felt that it represented itself and that he
spoke out of experience. He has heard a lot of people speak negatively
about CDBG and the Lansing Neighborhood Council. He stated that
these are not the programs to take shots at and that these are good, solid
programs full of volunteers. These programs have some paid staff but the
volunteers are what make these programs work. He stated that you just
don't push these aside and that you not only keep them, but you enhance
them. He is asking that on behalf of him being a resident and founder of
Old Oakland Organization and still a member today, for support of the
programs proposed before the Board this evening and for those who are
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES January 8, 2002, Page 7
seeking Federal funds. He made a comment about an experience that he
had during the year when he sat at the dias. He heard people voice their
opinions about the Lansing City Council and how the Council is a political
action committee - a PAC. He commented that it was a real leap in logic.
He represents the MI Dental Association and its 5,000 members. He has
one of the larger PACs in the state called Dent PAC and that particular
PAC made direct contributions to State Senators and State
Representatives' campaigns. The Lansing Neighborhood Council doesn't
do anything like that. By no means is the Lansing Neighborhood Council
anything near a political action committee that he's ever been associated
with. To set the record straight, with his interpretation of the way PACs
are, he considered the Lansing Neighborhood Council not one of them.
He hopes that the Board will rally behind this, not just tonight but in years
to come. He stated that it's the right thing to do.
Cathy Robinson, resident of 2625 Gilbert Road, stated she is on the
Board of Directors for Habitat for Humanity and she also Chairs the
Family Committee for Habitat for Humanity. She stated that Habitat for
Humanity was very fortunate last year to receive the funds through CDBG
and that she would like to share how those funds were used. Habitat for
Humanity developed three properties (Grovenberg, Turner and Moffitt)
which allowed them to provide homes for three families. The Grovenberg
property will be dedicated this Sunday to a large family that was forced to
relocate because of domestic violence. The mother's dream for that
family was to have a back yard for her children to play in. On Sunday
when that home is dedicated, she will be able to provide that opportunity
to her children. The mother works full time and does not drive. She
needed to live in a location that was near stores and a bus line and the
Grovenberg property has allowed her to do that. The Moffitt property has
a family who came from horrible living conditions. The house they moved
from was always wet. It had a leaky roof and the windows leaked. There
was always water in the basement. The conditions were not healthy for
the children who lived there. She stated that over 60% of that family's
monthly income went to the landlord and in July, the refrigerator broke
and it was a part of the house when the family rented it. The landlord
refused to fix the refrigerator so the mother went out and was able to
obtain a second hand used refrigerator which, when they moved out of the
property into their new home, the landlord refused to let them take it.
These are typical of the families that Habitat for Humanity serves. She
stated that these families come from living conditions which, in many
cases, mirror the conditions in some of the third world countries that one
might see on TV. Yet, these conditions are right here in our own
community. She stated that Habitat for Humanity is grateful for the CDBG
funding which allowed them to help these three families in 2001.
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES January 8, 2002, Page 8
Judy Hackett, resident of 625 N. Pennsylvania Ave., President of Oak
Park Neighborhood Association, stated that based on some of the prior
people who have spoken, these people do represent other areas (ie. BTS
and the schools) besides the neighborhood. She spoke on behalf of
Lansing Neighborhood Council. She stated that when she looks at
homelessness and the different programming, one of the many things that
the Lansing Neighborhood Council did was they worked with the residents
doing paint blitzes (before the lead based paint became a factor) and
other neighborhood projects. The Lansing Neighborhood Council worked
on things in the neighborhoods. This was one of the avenues to help with
the homelessness and to help keep people out of the shelters. Through
the neighborhood groups and the information the Lansing Neighborhood
Council had received, they have worked in many ways to help neighbors
stay in their homes and to help residents to take care of many of the
problems that might have potentially made them homeless. She feels that
the Lansing Neighborhood Council has done a great service in the
neighborhoods. The Lansing Neighborhood Council has coordinated a lot
of volunteers and the City has benefitted from the volunteer services that
many residents have given in their neighborhoods through these projects.
She would hate to see funding not continue as well as many of the other
worthy programs that are on this list. She stated that Ms. Johnson of
Ferris Development has been working with the neighborhood, and with
her help and MSHDA, things are being rehabilitated. She stated that
Ferris Development has acquired the property across from Eastern High
School and that it is being considered for rehabilitation in the near future.
She stated that all of the programs need paid support staff. Based on the
monies that go into these programs, she feels that the volunteer hours
have raised the awareness of many issues in the City and that the
neighborhoods have out weighed any costs that the Lansing
Neighborhood Council has had.
Kathie Dunbar, resident of 1334 Boston Blvd., President of Sagamore
Hills Neighborhood Organization, just wanted to give her support for the
Lansing Neighborhood Council and the use of CDBG funding. She would
not consider this group a political action committee. She stated that the
Lansing Neighborhood Council has done a lot and considered it more of a
charitable group rather than an organizational and supportive group. She
also stated the Sagamore Hills Neighborhood Organization had been
organized under their supervision. She had no idea how to create an
organization and found them to be a benefit and a resource. She had
used them like she had used the Neighborhood Watch Advisory Board.
She stated that the Sagamore Hills Neighborhood Organization was a
combination between an Association and a Watch and that she would not
consider any of the money they used to be politically oriented. She also
stated that some of the objections may have come from the fact that
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES January 8, 2002, Page 9
people who belong to that organization or someone who might sit on the
Board of that organization or who are members of or affiliated with that
Neighborhood Association occasionally have opinions but it doesn't
necessarily mean that decision is a reflection of the Lansing
Neighborhood Council. She also stated that it doesn't mean that these
people represent the Lansing Neighborhood Council do not have anything
to say. She really wanted to stress that by her joining an organization or
forming an Association and being a part of the Lansing Neighborhood
Council doesn't allow her to give up her rights as an individual to come
down here and have an opinion on a matter be it before City Council or
before the Board. She didn't think that she should be stripped of her
rights individually because she has chosen to bond as a group. She
emphasized her support in keeping these groups funded through CDBG
money and stated that they are a great resource for the City.
Monica Zuchowski, resident of 320 N. Walnut, President of the
Lansing Neighborhood Council and President of the Downtown
Neighborhood Association, stated that DNA will be considering
tomorrow evening a resolution in support of the CDBG funding proposal.
She stated that in the past they have been very supportive of the funding
across the board specifically with the funds to the Lansing Neighborhood
Council. When she started on the Board as a member of the Lansing
Neighborhood Council, she had no concept of everything that the
volunteers or the paid staff did in that office. She stated it is a shame that
some folks who have chosen to criticize the Lansing Neighborhood
Council Organization and it's staff really don't understand what the
organization does. She also stated the someone really doesn't know what
an organization is all about until you're actually on the inside. Funding
comes from several places, both CDBG and general funds. She stated
the Lansing Neighborhood Council is very aware of the programs that are
operating with CDBG funds and that these funds can be used for those
programs. The Lansing Neighborhood Council is very aware of the items
that funds must be expended for out of the general fund. She stated that
the Lansing Neighborhood Council is also aware of a Neighborhood group
in the Groesback area that crosses the line between the City of Lansing
and the Lansing Township and how they have to be very careful that
resources from the City, especially the CDBG funds, do not cross that
line. She gave the example of Neighborhoods N' Bloom. The Lansing
Neighborhood Council operates in good faith with the rules not in spite of
the rules. She stated that one of the earlier speakers insinuated that a
number of Neighborhood people, if not all, take marching orders from
Carol Wood. Considering some of the discussions that she & Carol have
had in the past 7 - 8 years, she felt Ms. Wood would find it surprising if
she was taking marching orders. She stated that if people would take the
time to talk with the Neighborhood groups and the group leaders, they
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES January 8, 2002, Page 10
would understand it is a constant struggle to be an active volunteer and
that the Lansing Neighborhood Council does what they do out of the
goodness of their hearts because they care. The CDBG funding helps
make it possible for the Lansing Neighborhood Council to provide
assistance to all the Neighborhood groups. She stated that there are
possibly 45 plus Neighborhood groups and there are new ones being
talked about every day. These Neighborhood groups are City wide. She
also stated that the CDBG funds and the general funds help the Lansing
Neighborhood Council to do their jobs. She appreciated the support of
the funding in the past and encouraged the continuation of funding for the
future.
Kevin Webb, resident of 528 W. Grand River Ave., Vice President of
the Lansing Neighborhood Council and President of the Old Forest
Neighborhood Association, stated that he does not take marching
orders from anybody especially when it comes to 510 W. Willow and
some of the things that have been done. Nor does he take any orders
from Carol Wood. He stated the only people who were paid by the
Lansing Neighborhood Council were the staff. He has never received any
payment or remunertion of any kind nor did he know if any of the other
Board members have and he doesn't intend to. He stated the work that is
being done by the Lansing Neighborhood Council is tireless hours. These
are things that, quite honestly, he had wondered why he continued on.
He's lived in Lansing for 9 years now and wanted to make the City a better
place to live. Before this, he lived in Grand Ledge. He stated that the City
of Lansing can continue to bring things back instead of having everyone
move out to the suburbs. He stated that there were comments made
regarding contracts that he signed for the Lansing Neighborhood Council.
He made it clear that there is only one person who can sign contracts and
that is the Director. He stated that he only signs as a Notary on a
contract. He commented that some of the statements which had been
made were off the wall and totally unnecessary. He felt it was totally
uncalled for to have people make continuous attacks without coming to
and being part of Neighborhood groups. He has been a part of the
Neighborhood group for over 2 years now and has never seen Belinda
Fitzpatrick, Christine Timmon or any of the other people come forward.
Had they stepped forward, he would have asked them what they had
done on a volunteer basis for any of the Neighborhood groups or any
other group on a volunteer basis in the last 12 months or the last 36
months. He stated that none of them would have been able to stand up
and say that they had done anything for a Neighborhood group. He
stated that there are a lot of people that do volunteer work at the Lansing
Neighborhood Council.
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES January 8, 2002, Page 11
Charlene Decker, resident of 2711 Pleasant Grove Road, stated that
her neighborhood has an Association. One of the original battles that her
neighborhood had was a developer coming into the area. There was a
special area which had flooded a number of homes. She stated that it
was forested land and had a lot of animal habitations, which she found on
her own. The land had been looked over and surveyed; it was considered
a wetland. This was how she became part of the Neighborhood
Association and she gave as much time as she could give. She has no
quarrel with the good works that have been done with the Neighborhood
Associations. She made it very clear that the City needs these groups
and that they do well. The only objections that she had was the work is
hard and the people do volunteer. She volunteers for other things besides
the Neighborhood Association. She stated that she doesn't have to
apologize for not being a steady member of the Neighborhood Association
or joining with them on things because she does her own volunteering and
that it is for her to know. She clearly understands what volunteering is all
about. She stated that it's time-consuming and that she applauds those
who do volunteer. The only thing she is requesting (and she stated that it
isn't something that can be made a law or a rule) is to take into
consideration when a statement is made for any Neighborhood
Association, individually or as a whole, do not give the perceived
conception that these represent all the neighbors. The Lansing
Neighborhood Association is not an elective body as a whole throughout
the City. Whatever is decided within the Neighborhood Association
meetings, is only within that group. There is a time to say "Yeah, I agree
we should do this or this is the way it should be." This is fine but she is
asking please do not have the misconception that everyone in this huge,
large neighborhood agrees on that vote. This gives a wrong impression of
things. She stated that many of the things that have been done, in the
name of the Neighborhood Association, she has agreed with and that
there were some to which she disagreed. She doesn't want the
conception that the majority in the neighborhood agreed or that it was by
minority only.
Mr. Frederick stated that the Urban Development Committee of the
Planning Board will meet Tuesday, January 29, 2002 at 4:00 p.m. to
discuss the proposed objectives, goals and projected use of funds
presented this evening. The meeting will be held in the Building Safety
Conference Room of the Department of Planning and Neighborhood
Development, located at 316 N. Capitol Avenue (North Capitol Ramp).
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES January 8, 2002, Page 12
B. LS-18-2001, 6330 Cooper Road, Lots 40 and 41 Supervisor's Plat of
Radio Estates
This is a request by Kurt Boegner to divide a 30,720 square foot parcel
located at the 6330 Cooper Road. This parcel consists of two lots (Lots
40 and 41 Supervisor's Plat of Radio Estates) as depicted on the attached
parcel map. The applicant desires to divide this parcel into two lots. The
existing house would be located on one lot which would be 72 feet in
width (Parcel A). The other lot would be 56 feet in width (Parcel B). It is
necessary for the lot with the house to be wider so that this structure
would be in compliance with the side yard setback requirement.
John Hodges gave a brief overview.
Ms. Foster questioned whether or not this split would create a hardship on
the lot. Mr. Hodges commented that the lot split would accommodate a
46' wide house.
Mr. Ruge questioned how the new house would be oriented. Mr. Hodges
stated that the applicant would have to maintain the average set back for
the other existing structures within 180' of the property being developed.
Mr. Hodges also stated that the other houses were not too far off and that
there is a relatively consistent development pattern on that street in
general.
The applicant stated that he did not see the need to address the Board.
Referred to the Zoning and Ordinance Committee which will meet at the
recess tonight.
C. Z-19-2001, Lot 4 of Block 2, M. Carey's First Addition located
immeditely east of 622 and 614 Carey Street, "B" Residential to "C"
Residential District
This is a request by Erich Speckin, to rezone the property measuring 66 ft.
wide x 165 ft. deep, located immediately east of 622 and 614 Carey
Street, and more particularly described as:
Lot 4 of Block 2, M. Carey's First Addition to the City of Lansing,
Ingham County, Michigan according to the recorded plat thereof as
recorded in Liber 1 of Plats, page 2, Ingham County Records.
from "B" Residential to "C" Residential District. The applicant proposes to
build a duplex on the subject property. The applicant also owns the lot
east of lot 4, which measures 68 ft. wide x 165 ft. deep and is currently
zoned "C" Residential which allows for the development of a duplex.
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES January 8, 2002, Page 13
Sue Stachowiak gave a brief overview.
There was a general discussion regarding code requirements and set
back issues. Ms. Stachowiak explained that the minimum set back is the
average of the houses within 180 feet within the same block and on the
same side of the street and that the applicant could situate the house
further back, if preferred.
Tom Knoy represented the applicant. He presented a narrative report
to the Board. He stated that they exceed the minimum requirements for
the square footage of the lot space and that they will be able to meet all
the set back requirements. A variance may not be necessary at this time.
There was a discussion as to whether or not Mr. Knoy or the applicant
would occupy either of these properties. Mr. Knoy stated that occupying
the properties is not the intent of the applicant and that the property will be
developed for a duplex and used as a rental.
Sherrie Guess, resident of 601 Carey Street, expressed her concerns
and stated that she did not agree with a zoning change that would be
inconsistent with the neighborhood as it is now, particularly when she
discovered that the owner does not intend to occupy any of the properties
that he is proposing to build. She stated that it is not a valid reason to
grant a zoning change in order to develop duplex rentals.
Referred to the Zoning and Ordinance Committee.
D. SLU-9-01 & ACT-29-2001, 1429 E. Miller Road, New Fire Station
The applicant is requesting a special permit to allow construction of a fire
station at 1429 E. Miller Road, (immediately east to the AT&T office), to
replace the existing station at 5550 S. Pennsylvania. ACT-29-01 is an
associated application relating to the proposed acquisition of this site by
the City.
An application to rezone this parcel and the property to the east is
currently under review. The applicant is requesting that the rezoning
application be amended for the property to be rezoned to the "D-1"
Professional Office District, as compared to "H" Light Industrial District
originally requested.
John Hodges gave a brief overview.
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES January 8, 2002, Page 14
There was a general discussion about the layout of the fire station being
similar to the fire station on Pleasant Grove. The layout is the same with
a few minor modifications.
Greg Martin, Lansing Fire Department, Fire Chief, 120 E. Shiawassee,
introduced Craig Jansen (Capitol Consultants), Jim Aubuchon (Architect,
Keystone Design Group), Chuck Willis (Assistant Fire Chief, Project
Manager for Fire Station 6), and Susan Anderson (Fire Board Chair).
Chief Martin stated that the Lansing Fire Department is trying to replicate
the existing station in terms of design. The internal studies indicated that
by placing a fire station in the new location, in conjunction with responses
from the other south side stations, the Fire Department should be able to
cover the entire south side of Lansing in a 4 minute or better response
time which he considered excellent by any standards. He stated that the
size of the new station is similar to Fire Station 6 and will allow the Fire
Department to house a ladder truck in that area of town. His concerns for
responses in that area of town as well as fire fighter safety are geared
toward the current Fire Station 4. He gave the example that if the Fire
Department is responding to a fire and headed south, the fire fighters tend
to be at that fire scene by themselves longer than the Chief would like.
He stated that, by having more apparatus at the new fire station, it will
enhance safety for the citizens and the fire fighters. He also stated that it
is a rapid growing side of town both commercially and with new multi-
family properties being developed. He also stated that similar to the
existing Fire Station 6, the new fire station will have a community/class
room that would be available for the public to use for meetings as well as
uses for the Fire Department as a classroom. The Fire Board, with Chair
Susan Anderson as well as the Building Committee (Ken Balzer), have
reviewed a number of sites on the south side and have approved this as a
location for the new fire station. In reference to the Special Land Use
application, he stated there was a zoning issue. He has other fire stations
that are in the same situation where they have an Special Land Use
because they are in a residential area. With all of the stations, he felt the
neighborhoods would agree that the Fire Department tries to be very good
neighbors and that the Fire Department would strive to do this at the new
location. Mr. Ruff specified that the height restriction for a tower is around
35 feet. Chief Martin indicated that the Fire Department would like to
move a tower (approximately 150 feet in height) from its existing location
to the new location and asked if that would be a possibility. Mr. Ruff
stated that the tower would have to be addressed separately because of a
variance issue which will need to go before the Board of Zoning and
Appeals. Chief Martin explained that there is a tower at Fire Station 4.
The tower is not used by the Lansing Fire Department nor Lansing Police
Department. Currently, this tower is being used as part of the Ingham
County 911 Center, which is based in the Police building. The tower is
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES January 8, 2002, Page 15
used to dispatch some of the County Fire Departments. The Lansing Fire
Department, the Lansing Police Department and other County Police and
Fire agencies are in a joint study to upgrade and integrate the County's
Police and Fire radio system. A site in this portion of the City could be
critical to receive radio signals from portable or mobile units and relay
them back to the respective 911 Centers. Chief Martin is not sure at this
time if the Fire Department would need a tower. He wanted to present it
up front and start the application process rather than getting into the
situation of possibly selling Fire Station 4 and then wondering what to do
with that site. Chief Martin stated that a better solution would be to have
the tower at the new property.
There was a general discussion about a construction time table. Chief
Martin stated that they are still at the internal review process and it may
take another 4 months to go out to bid.
Loretta Stanaway, resident of 546 Armstrong Road, previously
objected to a proposal to relocate this busy station to the old Richter
Gardens site located on South Cedar because of traffic safety concerns,
response time concerns, cost concerns, neighbor concerns, and concerns
with the long term agenda of Chief Martin geared towards closing and
consolidating from 9 down to 6 thereby increasing response time city
wide. She stated that the Miller Road site is a vast improvement over the
Richter site and that it satisfactorily addresses the traffic safety concerns
and the neighbor concerns of the people on Spokane and the adjoining
residential areas. However, she is not sure how well it mitigates response
time concerns since present average response times at that station for
80% of the coverage area is now in the area of 3 minutes. She stated
that Chief Martin is saying the new site would achieve an average
response time of 4 minutes for 90% of its coverage area. She also stated
that Chief Martin did not specify how he made that determination or what
the times will be for the remaining 10% of that service area. Also
unaddressed is whether or not he would then redraw the first response
circles for that station and other stations and/or whether he would
reassign equipment or personnel from other stations to that new site. This
site apparently would have the affect of nearly doubling response times to
the extreme northern and northwestern portions of that station's current
coverage areas. East Miller would be significantly more cost effective
than the Richter site and that in purchase and preparation costs alone, the
Miller site is a minimum $468,640 cheaper than the Richter site. Any day
the City can save nearly a half million dollars sounds like a victory for the
citizens and taxpayers. However, she has not heard any cost projections
yet for developing Station 4 at the East Miller site. She still has concerns
about Chief Martin's long term agenda which appears to be geared toward
consolidating and reducing stations City wide. Instead of 9 well located
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES January 8, 2002, Page 16
stations, there would be 6. Three of which would be the look-a-like drive
through McFire station design, seen at the new Station 6 site at Pleasant
Grove and Jolly Road. By insisting on using the same design for all 3 of
the relocations, Chief Martin is in affect driving up the costs by virtue of
needing more land and more building structure than is actually required
for each of these stations to fulfull their missions.
Joanne Manshum, resident of 6335 Marscot, Neighborhood Watch
Coordinator for the Marscot neighborhood, would like to express her
concerns and have them considered.
1. Noise could pose a problem because there are a great deal
of seniors in her complex and there is a foster home for
seniors located on Noburn Way.
2. Traffic makes it very difficult to turn onto the main road from
Marscot.
3. Speed limit is posted at 30 mph; vehicles are moving faster
in this area.
4. The third lane is being used as a passing lane. This could
pose a problem.
5. There are many cars exiting from the industrial site. Heavy
flow of traffic between 3:00 - 5:00 p.m.
6. Good to have a fire station close by but would anyone want
to have a fire station right across the street from them?
Referred SLU-9-2001 and ACT-29-2001 to the Committee of the Whole which
hopes to take this up at the January 22, 2002 meeting.
5. COMMENTS FROM THE AUDIENCE
Loretta Stanaway, continued with her comments on the fire station issues.
There was more building & structure being drawn in to this than there was a
need for. It is not possible in her opinion to foresee a time when one station site
would house 6 pieces of equipment or need 16 dormitory rooms, let alone, 60
feet of grass buffer on the side. However, buying land sized appropriately to
allow for potential future expansion did make sense to her. Building that degree
of expansion in from the start, does not. A concern that she had, especially after
she read the Lansing State Journal article about the proposal, is an apparent
error in the paper regarding the cost of the land. The cost of the land was
$261,360. She also stated that it is debatable whether Station 4 could be
renovated. Chief Martin has expressed his interest in moving a ladder truck from
Station 9 to wherever Station 4 relocates. To her, it did not make sense. A
ladder truck is used in areas where there are multiple floor high rise buildings.
There are more of those in the Station 9 service area. In her opinion, Station 9
area is in more of a need than in the residential and retail area in Station 4. If
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES January 8, 2002, Page 17
the ladder truck is moved, who will be driving it? Is Chief Martin going to
reassign personnel? Moving new equipment into the area does not pose a
problem since the Mayor has frozen an order for 3 new fire trucks and 1
ambulance. She-also stated that the paper listed the cost of the new Station 6
as being $2 million. Her understanding was that the price was closer to $2.2
million. She was under the impression that there was room at the old Station 6
site to renovate on site but it was Chief Martin's choice not to do so. She stated
now they are talking about taking a $65,000 loss. She specified that the City
should give the citizens a world class Fire Department, Police Department and
roads.
Gerald Dunn, resident of 6218 Marscot, expressed his concerns regarding the
budget. Businesses are laying off employees and making appropriations without
consideration of needs. He questioned whether the larger stations would reduce
the number of stations, thus increasing response time.
6. RECESS was taken by the Board.
7. BUSINESS SESSION
A. Ms. Keene moved; seconded by Ms. Patrick to approve the minutes of
December 4, 2001 with corrections to page 4.
On a Voice Vote, the motion carried unanimously. APPROVED
B. Committee Reports
1. ZONING AND ORDINANCE COMMITTEE, Mr. Ruge, Chair
Referred LS-18-2001 to the Committee of the Whole.
Next meeting, Wednesday, January 16, 2002 at 4:00 p.m.
316 N. Capitol Ave., Department Conference Room.
2. URBAN DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE, Ms. Patrick, Chair
Next meeting, Tuesday, January 29, 2002, at 4:00 p.m.
316 N. Capitol Ave., Department Conference Room.
Mr. Ruge made a motion; seconded by Ms. Keene to dissolve into
the Committee of the Whole.
On a Voice Vote, the motion carried.
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES January 8, 2002, Page 18
3a. Committee of the Whole
1. LS-18-2001, 6330 Cooper Road, Lots 40 and 41
Supervisor's Plat of Radio Estates
This is a request by Kurt Boegner to divide a 30,720 square
foot parcel located at the 6330 Cooper Road. This parcel
consists of two lots (Lots 40 and 41 Supervisor's Plat of
Radio Estates) as depicted on the attached parcel map.
The applicant desires to divide this parcel into two lots. The
existing house would be located on one lot which would be
72 feet in width (Parcel A). The other lot would be 56 feet in
width (Parcel B). It is necessary for the lot with the house to
be wider so that this structure would be in compliance with
the side yard setback requirement.
John Hodges presented additional information to show that
the lots were platted at 1:2.75 at 64' wide.
Mr. Ruge made a motion, seconded by Mr. Frederick to approve LS-18-2001, 6330
Cooper Road, Lots 40 and 41 Supervisor's Plat of Radio Estates with the condition
that the front yard parking and joint drive be eliminated if the property is sold or
developed.
On a Voice Vote, the motion carried.
Ms. Keene made a motion, seconded by Mr. Frederick to arise from the Committee of
the Whole.
On a Voice Vote, the motion carried.
3b. Committee of the Whole, Mr. Smith, Chair
1. LS-18-2001, 6330 Cooper Road, Lots 40 and 41
Supervisor's Plat of Radio Estates.
PLANNING BOARD ACTION on the motion was as follows:
Mr. Smith made a motion, seconded by Ms. Foster to approve LS-18-2001, 6330
Cooper Road, Lots 40 and 41 Supervisor's Plat of Radio Estates with the condition
that the front yard parking and joint drive be eliminated if the property is sold or
developed.
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES January 8, 2002, Page 19
Frederick . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ave Foster. . . Ave
Patrick. . .Ave Smith . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ave
Keene. . .Ave Ruge . .Ave
On a Roll call vote, there were: Ayes: 6; Nays: 0; carried; unanimous;
APPROVED
4. Executive Committee - none
8. REPORT FROM PLANNING MANAGER
Mr. Ruff discussed the following:
1. Letters to Old Town Main Street & Catering Company
2. Interviews for Senior Planner Position begin this week
3. Wolverine Pipeline - Hearing to be set for March
4. Possible Training
9. PENDING ITEMS (future action required)
1. Zoninq and Ordinance Committee
a. - - urner t., Light Industrial District to"G-1" Business District
b. �Tabled February 11, 199")
-5-98,401-407 E. Grand f2iver,"F"Commercial District to"G-1" Business
District(Tabled June 10, 1998)
C. Z-8-2000, 3901 S. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.,"F"Commercial to"H" Light
Industrial District(Tabled June 14,2000)
d. Z-15-2000, 301 W. Lenawee Street, Professional Office to"G-1" Business
District(Tabled January 17,2001)
e. P-1-2001,Tentative Preliminary PPlat,Wexford Woods(Tabled June 13, May 9,
2001)
f. PRD-2-01,"Crystal Woods", Planned Residential Neighborhood (Tabled August
15, 2001
g. Z-8-01, illoughby Rd.,"A"Residential to"DM-1"Residential, "D-1"Professional
Office and"C"Residential (Tabled October 10, 2001
h. SLU-6-01, 517-519 E. Grand River Ave., Church in"F-1"Commercial District
(Tabled November 14,2001)
i. SLU-8-01, 3000 W. Miller Road,Additional Parking for an Existing Church
(Tabled November 14,2001)
2. Urban Development Committee
a. Act-9-2000, 201 E. Grand River Avenue, Proj.Sign Over ROW (Tabled June 27,
2000)
b. Discussion of Comprehensive Planning Process.
3. Committee of the Whole
4. Planning Board
a. Act-12-01, 5550 S. Pennsylvania-Market Fire Station for Salem (Tabled July 3,
2001).
b. Act-13-01,4801 S. Cedar Street,Acquire for Fire Station (tabled July 3,2001).
10. NEW BUSINESS
A. Planning Office Work Program and Budget for FY 2003. Materials
handed out and the Board desired to act on it on January 22, 2002.
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES January 8, 2002, Page 20
11. COMMENTS FROM CHAIRPERSON
Mr. Frederick requested an excused absence for the next meeting.
Mr. Ruge made a motion, seconded by Ms. Keene to approve Mr. Frederick's
excused absence.
On a Voice Vote, the motion carried.
12. COMMENTS FROM BOARD MEMBERS
Mr. Ruge commented that he liked the minutes being shorter.
Mr. Ruge found out that signs with moving letters are allowed in the City.
Mr. Ruge commented on a Charter School occupying a building in the industrial
area off of Grand River by the airport. He noticed that the building was still
vacant and was requesting information. No information was available.
Ms. Patrick requested information as to why so many trucks and containers were
parked in the south Meijer parking lot. Ms. Stachowiak gave an overview of the
construction project. There was general discussion.
Mr. Ruge questioned the Deja Vu construction. A brief discussion followed.
13. ADJOURNMENT - Meeting was adjourned at 9:50 p.m.
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES February 5, 2002, Page 4
Don Martin, resident of 5625 Kaynorth, stated he currently owns 5620
Kaynorth which sets back 40 feet from Kaynorth. The house that is on
Northrup sits back 40-45 feet from the road. The house to the south of
5620 is 40 feet from the road. He wasn't sure about the variances. He is
concerned about the house at 5600 Kaynorth because it has been rental
property for quite a few years. He personally would not like for the lot to
be split and feels the owner would be creating more rental properties. He
also stated that the area is recessed enough because of the existing
apartment complexes that surround 5600 Kaynorth. He would rather not
have see more rental properties be developed in this area and stated that
currently there are plenty.
Catherine Martin, resident of 5625 Kaynorth, stated she has lived in
this area all her life. Her biggest concern is if the owner builds another
house on the existing lot, the house would be pretty small and she wanted
to know where the owner would put the driveway. She stated that there is
a fire lane from Louisa Street to Kaynorth Street to Cedar Street and that
there is a lot of traffic. Whether the owner puts the driveway on Northrup
or Kaynorth, it would be a traffic hazard because of the way people drive
through this area. She is also concerned about the value of her property
because she owns 5625 and 5620 Kaynorth. She wanted to know if the
value of her property would go down because of two rental properties.
She stated that the owner has had trouble in the past renting 5600
Kaynorth and was wondering where would he find renters for the second
property.
Jolene Martin, resident of 5620 Kaynorth, stated she is currently in the
process of purchasing her property from the owner. She has lived in this
house for four years and stated her goal was to buy and sell her house
and then purchase another home. She stated that she doesn't have
many repairs left on her house and is concerned about what the property
value will be at the time she sells her house. She is also concerned about
the owner building another house because it would create a smaller area.
She also agrees that there is enough rental property and traffic in this
area and feels the area doesn't need more development.
Referred to the Zoning and Ordinance Committee meeting that will be
held on Wednesday, February 13, 2002.
5. COMMENTS FROM THE AUDIENCE
Eric Anasdale, of Medallion Management, stated he was available to discuss
matters related to ACT-30-2001, 4901 S. Waverly Road (Cranbrook Apts.),
Vacate Bower Drain Easement, as needed.
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES February 5, 2002, Page 5
6. RECESS was not taken by the Board.
7. BUSINESS SESSION
A. Ms. Foster moved; seconded by Ms. Cordill to approve the minutes of
January 22, 2002.
Ms. Cordill stated there was a correction to be made to the minutes in the
Planning Board packet. On page 7, last paragraph, first line, last word,
cite should be changed to site.
On a Voice Vote, the motion carried unanimously (4-0). APPROVED
B. Committee Reports
1. ZONING AND ORDINANCE COMMITTEE, Ms. Foster, Vice Chair
Next meeting, Wednesday, February 13, 2002 at 4:00 p.m.
316 N. Capitol Ave., Department Conference Room.
2. URBAN DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE, Ms. Patrick, Chair
a. Proposed Objectives, Goals and Projected Use of
Community Development Fund Resources including
Community Development Block Grant, HOME, and
Emergency Shelter Grant Programs, FY 2002-2003
The funding sources include Community Development Block
Grants (CDBG), the HOME Program, and Emergency
Shelter Grants (ESG). The Planning Board held a public
hearing regarding this item at its January 8, 2002, meeting.
Since then, several minor changes were made in the
allocation of funds among the individual line items, some of
which were mandated by the Department of Housing and
Urban Development (HUD). Funding allocations will not be
firm until grant agreements are executed by HUD and the
City of Lansing.
The Urban Development Committee voted unanimously
(4-0) to recommend approval of the Proposed Objectives,
Goals and Projected Use of Community Development Fund
Resources, including the Community Development Block
Grant (CDBG), HOME and Emergency Shelter Grant (ESG)
Programs, FY 2002-2003.
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES February 5, 2002, Page 6
Ms. Patrick made a motion, seconded by Ms. Cordill to recommend approval of the
Proposed Objectives, Goals and Projected Use of Community Development Fund
Resources including Community Development Block Grant, HOME, and
Emergency Shelter Grant Programs, FY 2002-2003. On a Voice Vote, the motion
carried unanimously (4-0).
b. Act-30-01, 4901 S. Waverly Rd. (Cranbrook Apts.),
Vacate Bower Drain Easement
The Waverly Lansing Limited Dividend Housing Association
Limited Partnership requests that the City vacate Branch 1
of the Bowers Drain, which drains north portion of Cranbrook
Manor property at 4901 S. Waverly Rd., the northeast corner
of Waverly and Jolly Roads.
The purpose of the Branch 1 Drain was to drain a pond on
the north portion of the Cranbrook Manor property. The
drain terminated at this pond did not extend beyond Waverly
Road. When Cranbrook Manor was developed around
1970, adequate internal site drainage was installed,
eliminating the need for this section of the Branch 1 Drain.
According to a letter dated November 14, 2001, from Dean
Johnson, City Engineer, the drain is no longer needed, and
the easement could be vacated. A new terminal structure
for the drain will be required where the drain enters
Cranbrook Manor property. Additionally, any drainage
issues with the apartment buildings that may arise from the
vacation of drainage easement will be the responsibility of
the owner of Cranbrook Manor.
There were no objections among the agency responses. A
discussion ensued regarding the role of the county drain
commissioners. Mr. Rieske reported that the subject drain is
wholly located within the City of Lansing, east of Waverly
Road, in Ingham County, and is thus in the jurisdiction of the
City. [Note: A follow-up call was made for Ingham County
Drain Commissioner comments.]
The Urban Development Committee voted unanimously
(4-0) to recommend approval of Act-30-01, the request by
the Waverly Lansing Limited Dividend Housing Association
Limited Partnership that the City vacate that portion of the
Bowers Drain which is located on the Cranbrook Manor
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES February 5, 2002, Page 7
property at 4901 S. Waverly Road, provided that, prior to the
effective date of this vacation:
1. The applicant, at its sole expense, furnish and
install a new terminal structure for the drain
where the drain enters Cranbrook Manor
property, and
2. All work regarding this terminal structure shall
be inspected and approved by the Public
Service Department.
PLANNING BOARD ACTION on the motion was as follows:
Ms. Patrick made a motion, seconded by Ms. Cordill to recommend approval of
Act-30-01, 4901 S. Waverly Rd. (Cranbrook Apts.), Vacate Bower Drain Easement.
Cordill. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ave Foster. . . Ave
Patrick. .Ave Keene. .Ave
On a Roll call vote, there were: Ayes: 4; Nays: 0; carried; unanimous;
APPROVED
C. Act-31-01, Roscommon Dr. at Woodbridge Dr., BWL
Easement to Ameritech.
The Lansing Board of Water and Light requests approval to
grant an easement to Ameritech on property located on the
SW Corner of Roscommon and Woodbridge Drives (PPN
2350-40-36-326-008). The property is currently vacant,
wooded land, and is a potential BWL well site. The
Southwest Area Comprehensive Development Plan
designates this area as "Residential (7-14 du/acre)". It is
zoned "DM-1" Multiple-Family District.
Ameritech proposes to construct a 10' x 13' 8" concrete pad
and install a riser box, measuring 9' wide, 6' high, and 3'/2 '
deep, on the northwest corner of the subject property, within
the requested easement.
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES February 5, 2002, Page 8
The proposed easement area is flag shaped. The "flagpole"
is approximately 8' x 100', running E-W along the
Woodbridge Drive frontage. The "flag" measures 17' x 17',
and extends south from the "flagpole" in the northwest
corner of the property.
The Urban Development Committee voted unanimously
(4-0) to recommend approval of Act-31-2001, a request by
the Lansing Board of Water and Light to grant to Ameritech
an easement on property located on the SW Corner of
Roscommon and Woodbridge Drives (PPN 2350-40-36-326-
008), for the purpose of allowing Ameritech to construct a
10' x 13' 8" concrete pad and install a riser box, measuring 9'
wide, 6' high, and 3Y2 ' deep, on the northwest corner of the
subject property, with the following conditions:
1. this riser box should be located such that it
does not create a sight obstruction,
2. Ameritech shall provide additional landscaping
to screen the utility cabinet from the road,
3. the riser box shall be painted in such a manner
that its appearance blends in with surrounding
plant materials,
4. the project shall be subject to the normal site
plan review and approval process, including a
review of the site plan and construction details
by the Transportation and Parking Office, the
Board of Water and Light, and the Public
Service Department,
5. if Ameritech and/or its assignees ceases to use
the easement for its intended purpose, it shall
remove the cabinet structure and base, and
relinquish its easement interest to the Board of
Water and Light.
There was a general discussion regarding the visibility of the
utility box in hopes it would not be an eyesore, and possibly
additional landscaping to soften the impact and allow the
utility box to blend with its surroundings.
PLANNING BOARD ACTION on the motion was as follows:
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES February 5, 2002, Page 9
Ms. Patrick made a motion, seconded by Ms. Cordill to recommend approval of
Act-31-01, Roscommon Dr. at Woodbridge Dr., BWL Easement to Ameritech with
the five conditions as stated in the Committee recommendation.
Cordill. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ave Foster. . . Aye
Patrick. .Aye Keene. .Aye
On a Roll call vote, there were: Ayes: 4; Nays: 0; carried; unanimous;
APPROVED
Next meeting, Tuesday, February 26, 2002, at 4:00 p.m.
316 N. Capitol Ave., Department Conference Room.
4. Executive Committee - none
C. REPORT FROM PLANNING MANAGER - None.
D. PENDING ITEMS (future action required)
1. Zonina and Ordinance Committee
a. - -98 1223 N. I urner t.,"H"Light Industrial District to"G-1" Business District
Tabled February 11 1998)
b. -5-98,401-407 E. brand River,"F"Commercial District to"G-1" Business
District(Tabled June 10, 1998)
C. Z-8-2000,3901 S. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.,"F"Commercial to"H" Light
Industrial District(Tabled June 14,2000)
d. Z-15-2000,301 W. Lenawee Street, Professional Office to"G-1"Business
District(Tabled January 17,2001�
e. P-1-2001,Tentative Preliminary lat,Wexford Woods (Tabled June 13, May 9,
2001)
f. PRD-2-01,"Crystal Woods", Planned Residential Neighborhood (Tabled August
15, 2001
g. Z-8-01, illoughby Rd.,"A" Residential to"DM-1"Residential,"D-1"Professional
Office and"C"Residential (Tabled October 10, 2001
h. SLU-6-01, 517-519 E. Grand River Ave., Church in 7-1"Commercial District
(Tabled November 14,2001)
i. SLU-8-01, 3000 W. Miller Road,Additional Parking for an Existing Church
(Tabled November 14,2001)
2. Urban Development Committee
a. Act-9-2000,201 E. Grand River Avenue, Proj. Sign Over ROW (Tabled June 27,
2000)
b. Act-27-01,313 E. Grand River Ave. (Comfort Station), Market for Sale(Tabled
November 27,2001)
C. Discussion of Comprehensive Planning Process.
3. Committee of the Whole
4. Planning Board
8. NEW BUSINESS - None.
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES February 5, 2002, Page 10
9. COMMENTS FROM CHAIRPERSON - None.
10. COMMENTS FROM BOARD MEMBERS
There was a general discussion regarding the amount of rental properties in the
City of Lansing.
(Note: According to the 2000 Census, the City of Lansing has 42.5% of its
property as renter-occupied and 57.5% as owner-occupied.)
11. BOARD MEMBER CODE ENFORCEMENT NOTIFICATION REPORTS - None.
12. ADJOURNMENT - Meeting was adjourned at 8:00 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
James A. Ruff, Secretary, Planning Board
PB Minutes.020502.wpd
Draft to Clerk February 7,2002
Approved 2002
To Clerk 2002
Minutes of the Regular Meeting
LANSING PLANNING BOARD
7:00 p.m., Tenth Floor, Council Chambers
Lansing City Hall
Tuesday, February 5, 2002
1. OPENING SESSION
The meeting was called to order at 7:00 p.m. by Ms. Keene.
It was moved by Ms. Patrick, supported by Ms. Foster to appoint Ms. Keene as
Acting Chair for the evening. On a Voice Vote, the motion carried unanimously
(4-0).
A. Roll call. Present: Foster, Keene, Patrick, Cordill.
B. Staff Attending: Stachowiak, Rieske.
C. Excused absence: Mr. Frederick, Mr. Ruge, Mr. Smith.
It was moved by Ms. Foster, supported by Ms. Cordill to approve the excused
absence requests for Mr. Frederick, Mr. Ruge and Mr. Smith. On a Voice Vote,
the motion carried unanimously (4-0).
2. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
It was moved by Ms. Foster, supported by Ms. Cordill to approve the agenda.
On a Voice Vote, the motion carried unanimously (4-0).
3. COMMUNICATIONS
A. A memo from Mr. Rieske regarding ACT-30-2001, 4901 S. Waverly Road,
[PPN 3301-01-31-351-041 (Cranbrook Apts.,)], Vacate Bower Drain
Easement
4. PUBLIC HEARINGS
A. Z-21-2001, 2717 Turner Street, "F" Commercial to "C" Residential
District
This is a request by Mike Markey, representing Markey Associates, to
rezone the easterly 139 feet of the property located at 2717 Turner Street,
which is located between 2703 and 2801 Turner Street and more
particularly described as:
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES February 5, 2002, Page 2
Lot 4, Assessors Plat#34, City of Lansing, Ingham County,
Michigan, according to the recorded plat thereof as recorded in
Liber 11 of Plats, page 15, Ingham County Records
from "F" Commercial to "C" Residential District. The applicant proposes to
build a duplex on the subject property.
Sue Stachowiak gave a brief overview.
Mike Markey, resident of 1400 Silverwood, Okemos, represented
Kruger Properties. He stated that in the "F" Commercial District the
company could build a commercial structure with residential units
attached or adjacent to the "F" Commercial structure. These units would
still be within the zoning codes and meet all the code requirements. He
added that this is a down zoning from the current commercial use. He
also stated that this property would likely be renter occupied.
Referred to the Zoning and Ordinance Committee meeting that will be
held on Wednesday, February 13, 2002.
B. Z-1-2002, 400 Block of Dorrance Place, "H" Light Industrial District
to "DM-3" Residential District
This is a request by Ferris Development, to rezone four properties on the
west side of the street in the 400 block of Dorrance Place and more
particularly described as:
Lot 1, 2, 3 and 4 of Block 3, Assessor's Plat No. 7, City of Lansing,
Ingham County Michigan
from "H" Light Industrial District to "A" Residential District. The applicant
is proposing to construct four, three-bedroom, single family homes with
detached garages.
Sue Stachowiak gave a brief overview. The original request was for
"DM-3" but both the applicant and staff agree that "A" Residential would
suit the proposed use.
There was a general discussion regarding residential zoning.
Ron Van Zee, of Ferris Development, 820 N. Capitol, clarified that the
property will be two story, three-bedroom, single family, owner occupied
properties. These will not be rental properties. Ferris Development is
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES February 5, 2002, Page 3
proposing to build a single car, detached garage on each lot with hard
surface parking to meet zoning requirements. He stated that Ferris
Development acquired the properties 6-7 months ago and had
demolished all the existing structures. He brought pictures of the previous
structures which were all multiple family, with some 4-5 units on one lot.
He stated that Ferris Development is trying to downsize the use of
properties in the area to make the area less dense, improve the
properties, and to bring up the property values in the area.
There was a general discussion regarding other properties that Ferris
Development in currently developing.
Referred to the Zoning and Ordinance Committee meeting that will be
held on Wednesday, February 13, 2002.
C. LS-17-2001, 5600 Kaynorth Street
This is a request by Alex Boegner to divide a parcel located at 5600
Kaynorth Street and more particularly described as:
Lot 15, Assessors Plat #58, City of Lansing, Ingham County,
Michigan
into two parcels. An existing house would be located on one of the
parcels. The other parcel would be less than the minimum width
requirements of 70 feet for a corner lot, set forth in Section 1236.07 (b).
In addition, both parcels would be less than the minimum depth
requirement of 100 feet set forth in Section 1236.07 (c). A variance from
the design requirements of the Subdivision Regulations is, therefore,
requested.
Sue Stachowiak gave a brief overview.
Mark Gunn, resident of 701 Snider, East Lansing, stated he is
representing Alex Boegner and that Mr. Boegner is the owner of the
property. He stated that Mr. Boegner purchased 5600 Kaynorth as HUD
property and at that time the building was heavily damaged on the inside.
Mr. Boegner is currently handling repairs. He also stated that Mr.
Boenger's intentions are to sell the property as owner occupied and if the
lot split occurs, sell this property also as owner occupied. Mr. Gunn has
looked at the setbacks. He stated that the surrounding properties are very
close to the street. The only property that is set back from the street is
5600 Kaynorth.
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES February 5, 2002, Page 4
Don Martin, resident of 5625 Kaynorth, stated he currently owns 5620
Kaynorth which sets back 40 feet from Kaynorth. The house that is on
Northrup sits back 40-45 feet from the road. The house to the south of
5620 is 40 feet from the road. He wasn't sure about the variances. He is
concerned about the house at 5600 Kaynorth because it has been rental
property for quite a few years. He personally would not like for the lot to
be split and feels the owner would be creating more rental properties. He
also stated that the area is recessed enough because of the existing
apartment complexes that surround 5600 Kaynorth. He would rather not
have see more rental properties be developed in this area and stated that
currently there are plenty.
Catherine Martin, resident of 5625 Kaynorth, stated she has lived in
this area all her life. Her biggest concern is if the owner builds another
house on the existing lot, the house would be pretty small and she wanted
to know where the owner would put the driveway. She stated that there is
a fire lane from Louisa Street to Kaynorth Street to Cedar Street and that
there is a lot of traffic. Whether the owner puts the driveway on Northrup
or Kaynorth, it would be a traffic hazard because of the way people drive
through this area. She is also concerned about the value of her property
because she owns 5625 and 5620 Kaynorth. She wanted to know if the
value of her property would go down because of two rental properties.
She stated that the owner has had trouble in the past renting 5600
Kaynorth and was wondering where would he find renters for the second
property.
Jolene Martin, resident of 5620 Kaynorth, stated she is currently in the
process of purchasing her property from the owner. She has lived in this
house for four years and stated her goal was to buy and sell her house
and then purchase another home. She stated that she doesn't have
many repairs left on her house and is concerned about what the property
value will be at the time she sells her house. She is also concerned about
the owner building another house because it would create a smaller area.
She also agrees that there is enough rental property and traffic in this
area and feels the area doesn't need more development.
Referred to the Zoning and Ordinance Committee meeting that will be
held on Wednesday, February 13, 2002.
5. COMMENTS FROM THE AUDIENCE
Eric Anasdale, of Medallion Management, stated he was available to discuss
matters related to ACT-30-2001, 4901 S. Waverly Road (Cranbrook Apts.),
Vacate Bower Drain Easement, as needed.
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES February 5, 2002, Page 5
6. RECESS was not taken by the Board.
7. BUSINESS SESSION
A. Ms. Foster moved; seconded by Ms. Cordill to approve the minutes of
January 22, 2002.
Ms. Cordill stated there was a correction to be made to the minutes in the
Planning Board packet. On page 7, last paragraph, first line, last word,
cite should be changed to site.
On a Voice Vote, the motion carried unanimously (4-0). APPROVED
B. Committee Reports
1. ZONING AND ORDINANCE COMMITTEE, Ms. Foster, Vice Chair
Next meeting, Wednesday, February 13, 2002 at 4:00 p.m.
316 N. Capitol Ave., Department Conference Room.
2. URBAN DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE, Ms. Patrick, Chair
a. Proposed Objectives, Goals and Projected Use of
Community Development Fund Resources including
Community Development Block Grant, HOME, and
Emergency Shelter Grant Programs, FY 2002-2003
The funding sources include Community Development Block
Grants (CDBG), the HOME Program, and Emergency
Shelter Grants (ESG). The Planning Board held a public
hearing regarding this item at its January 8, 2002, meeting.
Since then, several minor changes were made in the
allocation of funds among the individual line items, some of
which were mandated by the Department of Housing and
Urban Development (HUD). Funding allocations will not be
firm until grant agreements are executed by HUD and the
City of Lansing.
The Urban Development Committee voted unanimously
(4-0) to recommend approval of the Proposed Objectives,
Goals and Projected Use of Community Development Fund
Resources, including the Community Development Block
Grant (CDBG), HOME and Emergency Shelter Grant (ESG)
Programs, FY 2002-2003.
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES February 5, 2002, Page 6
Ms. Patrick made a motion, seconded by Ms. Cordill to recommend approval of the
Proposed Objectives, Goals and Projected Use of Community Development Fund
Resources including Community Development Block Grant, HOME, and
Emergency Shelter Grant Programs, FY 2002-2003. On a Voice Vote, the motion
carried unanimously (4-0).
b. Act-30-01, 4901 S. Waverly Rd. (Cranbrook Apts.),
Vacate Bower Drain Easement
The Waverly Lansing Limited Dividend Housing Association
Limited Partnership requests that the City vacate Branch 1
of the Bowers Drain, which drains north portion of Cranbrook
Manor property at 4901 S. Waverly Rd., the northeast corner
of Waverly and Jolly Roads.
The purpose of the Branch 1 Drain was to drain a pond on
the north portion of the Cranbrook Manor property. The
drain terminated at this pond did not extend beyond Waverly
Road. When Cranbrook Manor was developed around
1970, adequate internal site drainage was installed,
eliminating the need for this section of the Branch 1 Drain.
According to a letter dated November 14, 2001, from Dean
Johnson, City Engineer, the drain is no longer needed, and
the easement could be vacated. A new terminal structure
for the drain will be required where the drain enters
Cranbrook Manor property. Additionally, any drainage
issues with the apartment buildings that may arise from the
vacation of drainage easement will be the responsibility of
the owner of Cranbrook Manor.
There were no objections among the agency responses. A
discussion ensued regarding the role of the county drain
commissioners. Mr. Rieske reported that the subject drain is
wholly located within the City of Lansing, east of Waverly
Road, in Ingham County, and is thus in the jurisdiction of the
City. [Note: A follow-up call was made for Ingham County
Drain Commissioner comments.]
The Urban Development Committee voted unanimously
(4-0) to recommend approval of Act-30-01, the request by
the Waverly Lansing Limited Dividend Housing Association
Limited Partnership that the City vacate that portion of the
Bowers Drain which is located on the Cranbrook Manor
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES February 5, 2002, Page 7
property at 4901 S. Waverly Road, provided that, prior to the
effective date of this vacation:
1. The applicant, at its sole expense, furnish and
install a new terminal structure for the drain
where the drain enters Cranbrook Manor
property, and
2. All work regarding this terminal structure shall
be inspected and approved by the Public
Service Department.
PLANNING BOARD ACTION on the motion was as follows:
Ms. Patrick made a motion, seconded by Ms. Cordill to recommend approval of
Act-30-01, 4901 S. Waverly Rd. (Cranbrook Apts.), Vacate Bower Drain Easement.
Cordill. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ave Foster. . . Aye
Patrick. . .Ave Keene. . .Aye
On a Roll call vote, there were: Ayes: 4; Nays: 0; carried; unanimous;
APPROVED
C. Act-31-01, Roscommon Dr. at Woodbridge Dr., BWL
Easement to Ameritech.
The Lansing Board of Water and Light requests approval to
grant an easement to Ameritech on property located on the
SW Corner of Roscommon and Woodbridge Drives (PPN
2350-40-36-326-008). The property is currently vacant,
wooded land, and is a potential BWL well site. The
Southwest Area Comprehensive Development Plan
designates this area as "Residential (7-14 du/acre)". It is
zoned "DM-1" Multiple-Family District.
Ameritech proposes to construct a 10' x 13' 8" concrete pad
and install a riser box, measuring 9' wide, 6' high, and 3'/2 '
deep, on the northwest corner of the subject property, within
the requested easement.
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES February 5, 2002, Page 8
The proposed easement area is flag shaped. The "flagpole"
is approximately 8' x 100', running E-W along the
Woodbridge Drive frontage. The "flag" measures 17' x 17',
and extends south from the "flagpole" in the northwest
corner of the property.
The Urban Development Committee voted unanimously
(4-0) to recommend approval of Act-31-2001, a request by
the Lansing Board of Water and Light to grant to Ameritech
an easement on property located on the SW Corner of
Roscommon and Woodbridge Drives (PPN 2350-40-36-326-
008), for the purpose of allowing Ameritech to construct a
10' x 13' 8" concrete pad and install a riser box, measuring 9'
wide, 6' high, and 3Y2 ' deep, on the northwest corner of the
subject property, with the following conditions:
1. this riser box should be located such that it
does not create a sight obstruction,
2. Ameritech shall provide additional landscaping
to screen the utility cabinet from the road,
3. the riser box shall be painted in such a manner
that its appearance blends in with surrounding
plant materials,
4. the project shall be subject to the normal site
plan review and approval process, including a
review of the site plan and construction details
by the Transportation and Parking Office, the
Board of Water and Light, and the Public
Service Department,
5. if Ameritech and/or its assignees ceases to use
the easement for its intended purpose, it shall
remove the cabinet structure and base, and
relinquish its easement interest to the Board of
Water and Light.
There was a general discussion regarding the visibility of the
utility box in hopes it would not be an eyesore, and possibly
additional landscaping to soften the impact and allow the
utility box to blend with its surroundings.
PLANNING BOARD ACTION on the motion was as follows:
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES February 5, 2002, Page 9
Ms. Patrick made a motion, seconded by Ms. Cordill to recommend approval of
Act-31-01, Roscommon Dr. at Woodbridge Dr., BWL Easement to Ameritech with
the five conditions as stated in the Committee recommendation.
Cordill. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ave Foster. . . Aye
Patrick. .Ave Keene. .Ave
On a Roll call vote, there were: Ayes: 4; Nays: 0; carried; unanimous;
APPROVED
Next meeting, Tuesday, February 26, 2002, at 4:00 p.m.
316 N. Capitol Ave., Department Conference Room.
4. Executive Committee - none
C. REPORT FROM PLANNING MANAGER - None.
D. PENDING ITEMS (future action required)
1. Zonina and Ordinance Committee
a. Z-1-98, 1223 N.Turner St. "H"Light Industrial District to"G-1" Business District
Tabled February 11 1998
b. -5-98,401-407 E. Grand iver,"F"Commercial District to"G-1" Business
District(Tabled June 10, 1998)
C. Z-8-2000, 3901 S. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.,"F"Commercial to"H" Light
Industrial District(Tabled June 14,2000)
d. Z-15-2000,301 W. Lenawee Street, Professional Office to"G-V Business
District(Tabled January 17,2001
e. P-1-2001,Tentative Preliminary lat,Wexford Woods (Tabled June 13, May 9,
2001)
f. PRD-2-01,"Crystal Woods", Planned Residential Neighborhood (Tabled August
15,2001_)_
g. Z-8-01,Willoughby Rd.,"A" Residential to"DM-1"Residential,"D-V Professional
Office and"C'Residential (Tabled October 10,2001
h. SLU-6-01, 517-519 E. Grand River Ave., Church in"F-1"Commercial District
(Tabled November 14,2001)
i. SLU-8-01, 3000 W. Miller Road,Additional Parking for an Existing Church
(Tabled November 14,2001)
2. Urban Development Committee
a. Act-9-2000, 201 E. Grand River Avenue, Proj. Sign Over ROW (Tabled June 27,
2000)
b. Act-27-01,313 E. Grand River Ave. (Comfort Station), Market for Sale (Tabled
November 27,2001)
C. Discussion of Comprehensive Planning Process.
3. Committee of the Whole
4. Planning Board
8. NEW BUSINESS - None.
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES February 5, 2002, Page 10
9. COMMENTS FROM CHAIRPERSON - None.
10. COMMENTS FROM BOARD MEMBERS
There was a general discussion regarding the amount of rental properties in the
City of Lansing.
(Note: According to the 2000 Census, the City of Lansing has 42.5% of its
property as renter-occupied and 57.5% as owner-occupied.)
11. BOARD MEMBER CODE ENFORCEMENT NOTIFICATION REPORTS - None.
12. ADJOURNMENT - Meeting was adjourned at 8:00 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
James A. Ruff, Secretary, Planning Board
PB Minutes.020502.wpd
APPROVED WITH CORRECTIONS, PAGE 7, Draft to Clerk January 28,2001
LAST PARAGRAPH, FIRST LINE, LAST WORD, Approved February 5,2001
CITE WAS CHANGED TO SITE To Clerk February 7,2001
Minutes of the Regular Meeting
LANSING PLANNING BOARD
7:00 p.m., Tenth Floor, Council Chambers
Lansing City Hall
Tuesday, January 22, 2002
1. OPENING SESSION
The meeting was called to order at 7:06 p.m. by Mr. Smith, Vice Chair.
A. Roll call. Present: Foster, Keene, Patrick, Smith, Ruge, Cordill.
B. Staff Attending: Ruff, Stachowiak.
C. Excused absence: Mr. Frederick.
2. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Ms. Keene was chosen to be Vice Chair for the Committee of the Whole this
evening.
It was moved by Ms. Patrick, supported by Ms. Keene to approve the agenda.
On a Voice Vote, motion carried unanimously (6-0).
3. COMMUNICATIONS
A. 2001 Office, Retail and Industrial Market Index
B. SLU-10-2001, 200 Block, east side of Townsend Street
Special Land Use Permit - Parking Ramp
C. Z-20-2001, Lots 10, 11 & 12 of Block 116, Original Plat, located at the
southeast corner of W. Allegan and Townsend Streets,
from "J" Parking and "G-1" Business Districts to "G-1" Business District
D. City Attorney's Letter addressing the fire hydrant issue at 4000 Hunter's
Ridge Drive
4. PUBLIC HEARINGS
A. Z-20-2001, Lots 10, 11 & 12 of Block 116, Original Plat, located at the
southeast corner of W. Allegan and Townsend Streets, from "J"
parking and "G-1" Business Districts to "G-1" Business District.
This is a request by the City of Lansing to rezone the property at the
southeast corner of W. Allegan and Townsend Streets, and more
particularly described as:
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES January 22, 2002, Page 2
Lots 10, 11 and 12 of Block 116 of the Original Plat of the Town of
Michigan, now the City of Lansing, Ingham County, Michigan, said
parcel subject to all easements and restrictions, if any
from "G-1" Business & "J" Parking Districts to "G-1" Business District.
Sue Stachowiak gave a brief overview.
Mr. Ruff stated that the City of Lansing is the current petitioner and that
the property had been transferred to the City of Lansing.
No one spoke.
Referred to the Committee of the Whole for later this evening.
B. SLU-10-01, 200 Block, east side of Townsend Street,
Special Land Use Permit - Parking Ramp
This is a request by the City of Lansing, in cooperation with the Boji Group
of Lansing, LLC, for a Special Land Use Permit to construct a parking
ramp on the property located in the 200 Block of the east side of
Townsend Street, between W. Allegan and Washtenaw Streets. Parking
Ramps are a use permitted in the "G-1" Business District, if a Special
Land Use Permit is approved by the City Council.
Sue Stachowiak gave a brief overview.
Mr. Ruff stated that there was a Special Land Use for part of the property
for a temporary surface lot where the YWCA building formerly stood. The
remainder of that side of the block has been surface parking for many
years. This removes surface parking into a facility and allows for a more
concentrated area for parking. This would provide additional parking for
the area.
No one spoke.
Referred to the Committee of the Whole for later this evening.
5. COMMENTS FROM THE AUDIENCE
Loretta Stanaway, resident of 546 Armstrong Road, explained that she met
with Chief Martin of Lansing Fire Department along with the Fire Department
Union President, Assistant Fire Chief Charles Booth and the President of the
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES January 22, 2002, Page 3
Fire Board Susan Anderson. The idea of relocating Station 4 to the old Richter's
Garden site has been permanently put to rest. Along with Station 4 is the
prospect of closing Station 9. She stated that the new proposed site on East
Miller is a vast improvement over the Richter site in terms of traffic safety and
financial concerns. Chief Martin has assured her that the response times at the
East Miller site in actuality would be largely comparable to the present response
times from the current Station 4 site on Pennsylvania. The Fire Department
Union President, Tom Cochran, seems to be comfortable with the projected
response times at the proposed new site. In order to maintain the response
times at the northwestern and northern portions of Station 4's current coverage
area, it is likely that calls to those areas would be reassigned to Station 9 or to
Station 6 once the new facility is operational on East Miller. This would meet the
objective of not seeing any significant increase in actual response times by virtue
of the station being relocated. Chief Martin categorically stated he has no plans
to close Station 9 or Station 7 and that he has no plans for reducing staffing
levels or doing anything that would result in significant increases in response
times over current levels. This is wonderful news. Chief Martin also indicated
that he would be using the same basic architectural drawings as were used at
the new Station 6 site but that the drawings would be modified to fit the needs of
the area Station 4 serves and that those same plans would most likely not be
used for the new Station 1 when it is built, at least not without substantial
modifications. While Chief Martin still wants to move the ladder truck to the new
site of Station 4, and she still believes, it is better left at Station 9, they would
probably never agree on everything. While the future holds decisions to be
made about relocating Station 1, for her and for now, that is another matter for
another day and time. At this point, she is satisfied with where things are and
where they seem to be going. But make no mistake, she'll continue to watch and
listen in case that changes.
Pat Maxam, resident of 525 Seymour, wanted to know why Kevin Thompson of
4000 Hunters Ridge Drive had been given a permit to build at this address when
there is no fire hydrant. She stated that Mr. Thompson bought the property 4-5
years ago and had it rezoned from "CUP" to "DM-1." She continued stating that
Mr. Thompson then obtained a building permit which Fire Inspector, Brian Davis,
approved although there was no fire hydrant. She also stated that the City of
Lansing follows the Fire Prevention Code which states that a fire hydrant needs
to be within 250 feet of a building. She stated that there is no public water in the
area for many hundreds of feet in each direction and that there is no fire hydrant.
Mr. Thompson is allowed to rent at this address which has no fire hydrant. She
has written the City of Lansing many times since the end of July 2001 asking the
City to take away Mr. Thompson's right to rent units. She referred to a letter,
written by the Lansing Fire Department and addressed to the City Attorney's
Office, which stated that the Fire Department had inspected the property and
that there was a fire hydrant at that address. She is wondering why they are not
telling the truth. It's time to rectify the situation at 4000 Hunters Ridge Drive and
to look into what is going on at the Fire Department. She read from the City
Attorney's letter, "The property has been inspected and a fire hydrant is there."
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES January 22, 2002, Page 4
She stated that she has maps from Board of Water and Light and that there was
an empty space when it came to the water pipes. She's certain that there is no
public water in most directions over 1,000 feet and perhaps 700 -800 feet in one
direction and the river is in another direction. She wants the situation rectified.
6. RECESS was not taken by the Board.
7. BUSINESS SESSION
A. Ms. Foster moved; seconded by Mr. Ruge to approve the minutes of
January 8, 2002.
Mr. Ruff stated there was a correction to the title page of the minutes in
the Planning Board packet and that it had already been corrected on his
copy and on the computer.
On a Voice Vote, the motion carried unanimously. APPROVED
B. Committee Reports
1. ZONING AND ORDINANCE COMMITTEE, Mr. Ruge, Chair
a. Z-19-2001, Lot 4 of Block 2, M. Carey's First Addition
located immediately east of 622 and 614 Carey Street,
"B" Residential to "C" Residential District
This is a request by Erich Speckin, to rezone the property
measuring 66 ft. wide x 165 ft. deep, located immediately
east of 622 and 614 Carey Street, and more particularly
described as:
Lot 4 of Block 2, M. Carey's First Addition to the City
of Lansing, Ingham County, Michigan according to the
recorded plat thereof as recorded in Liber 1 of Plats,
page 2, Ingham County Records
from "B" Residential to "C" Residential District. The
applicant proposes to build a duplex on the subject
property. The applicant also owns the lot east of lot 4,
which measures 68 ft. wide x 165 ft. deep and is currently
zoned "C" Residential which allows for the development of a
duplex.
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES January 22, 2002, Page 5
The request to rezone Lot #4 to allow the construction of a
duplex, is compatible with surrounding development, is
consistent with zoning of the two lots to the east, is in
compliance with the Comprehensive Plan, does not
negatively impact the environment or future patterns of
development. Staff believes the development of two
duplexes within this block, along a street that carries a high
volume of traffic and across from a major institutional
development (Sparrow Hospital) is a logical and reasonable
request.
Ms. Keene was in opposition of the approval. She stated
that putting two duplexes in an area that is "A" and "B"
Single Family Residential is not consistent, contrary to the
staff report. She stated Lansing has an over abundance of
rental property, somewhere between 48-50%. With "B"
zoning, the applicant can put a Single Family residence on
site and rent it. If approved, she encourages the applicant to
build a Single Family residence. She stated that to add to
the amount of rental property in Lansing would not be in the
City's best interest.
There was a general discussion.
Mr. Ruge made a motion, seconded by Ms. Foster to approve Z-19-2001, Lot 4 of
Block 2, M. Carey's First Addition located immediately east of 622 and 614 Carey
Street, "B" Residential to "C" Residential District.
On a Voice Vote, the motion was approved by 5 members and opposed by 1 member.
Referred to City Council without an affirmative
recommendation. In order to have an affirmative
recommendation, 6 votes are needed.
Next meeting, Wednesday, February 13, 2002 at 4:00 p.m.
316 N. Capitol Ave., Department Conference Room.
2. URBAN DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE, Ms. Patrick, Chair
Next meeting, Tuesday, January 29, 2002, at 4:00 p.m.
316 N. Capitol Ave., Department Conference Room.
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES January 22, 2002, Page 6
Ms. Keene made a motion; seconded by Ms. Foster to dissolve into the Committee of
the Whole.
On a Voice Vote, the motion carried.
3a. Committee of the Whole
1. Z-20-2001, Lots 10, 11 & 12 of Block 116, Original Plat,
located at the southeast corner of W. Allegan and
Townsend Streets, from "J" parking and "G-1" Business
Districts to "G-1" Business District.
This is a request by the City of Lansing to rezone the
property at the southeast corner of W. Allegan and
Townsend Streets, and more particularly described as:
Lot 10, 11 and 12 of Block 116 of the Original Plat of
the Town of Michigan, now the City of Lansing,
Ingham County, Michigan, said parcel subject to all
easements and restrictions, if any
from "G-1" Business & "J" Parking Districts to "G-1"
Business District.
There was a general discussion including the possibility of
having residential within the development.
The Committee concurred with the staff report.
Ms. Patrick made a motion, seconded by Ms. Foster to approve Z-20-2001, Lots 10, 11
& 12 of Block 116, Original Plat, located at the southeast corner of W. Allegan and
Townsend Streets, from "J" parking and "G-1" Business Districts to "G-1"
Business District.
A recommendation was made and carried to include a unanimous opinion stating that
the Board is disappointed that residential is not a component of this development and
the City needs to continue to encourage additional downtown housing opportunities.
On a Voice Vote, the motion and recommendation carried.
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES January 22, 2002, Page 7
2. SLU-10-01, 200 Block, east side of Townsend Street,
Special Land Use Permit - Parking Ramp
This is a request by the City of Lansing, in cooperation with
the Boji Group of Lansing, LLC, for a Special Land Use
Permit to construct a parking ramp on the property located in
the 200 Block of the east side of Townsend Street, between
W. Allegan and Washtenaw Streets. Parking Ramps are a
use permitted in the "G-1" Business District, if a Special
Land Use Permit is approved by the City Council.
The Committee concurred with the staff report.
Mr. Smith made a motion, seconded by Ms. Cordill to approve SLU-10-01, 200 Block,
east side of Townsend Street, Special Land Use Permit - Parking Ramp.
Mr. Ruge stated that even though residential was not included, it still looks like a great
project and congratulations to all who worked at bringing it together.
On a Voice Vote, the motion carried.
3. SLU-9-01 & ACT-29-2001, 1429 E. Miller Road, New Fire
Station
The applicant is requesting a special permit to allow
construction of a fire station at 1429 E. Miller Road,
(immediately east to the AT&T office), to replace the existing
station at 5550 S. Pennsylvania. ACT-29-01 is an
associated application relating to the proposed acquisition of
this site by the City.
An application to rezone this parcel and the property to the
east is currently under review. The applicant is requesting
that the rezoning application be amended for the property to
be rezoned to the "D-1" Professional Office District, as
compared to "H" Light Industrial District originally requested.
Sue Stachowiak gave a brief overview.
Chief Martin indicated that the Staff Report included the cite
site improvements of a 3,800 square foot facility and that
this was incorrect. The new facility would be approximately
12,000 square feet. He also indicated on page six, under
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES January 22, 2002, Page 8
the Special Land Use permit, the measurement of 50' x 75'
was also incorrect. The correct measurement is
approximate 100' x 100'.
There was a general discussion centered around energy
saving construction standards, Miller Road designation, fire
truck noise mitigation and fire truck design.
The Committee concurred with the staff report.
Mr. Smith made a motion, seconded by Ms. Cordill to approve SLU-9-01 & ACT-29-
2001, 1429 E. Miller Road, New Fire Station with the conditions as listed in the staff
report. These are: (1) The facility and site be designed in a manner that is in harmony
with the adjoining single family neighborhood to the maximum extent that is practical;
(2) The Fire Department avoid the use of sirens in proximity to the adjoining single
family neighborhood whenever possible; (3) The feasibility of placing remote activated
crossing signals at the driveway of the station be studied, in conjunction with the site
plan review process; (4) Increasing the turning radii at the intersection of Pennsylvania
Road and Miller Road be considered in preparation of the capital improvement budget
for the next fiscal year; (5) The communication tower be of a grey mono-pole design if
located to this site.
On a Voice Vote, the motion carried.
4. Act-12-2001, 5550 S. Pennsylvania Ave. (PPN 3301-05-
03-03-301-421) Market Fire Station for Sale
Ms. Foster made a motion, seconded by Mr. Smith to remove Act-12-2001, 5550 S.
Pennsylvania Ave. (PPN 3301-05-03-03-301-421) Market Fire Station for Sale from
the table.
On a Voice Vote, the motion carried.
The Lansing Fire Department requests permission to market
for sale the existing fire station at 5550 S. Pennsylvania Ave.
Both the building and the site are too small for current
needs, and alternate sites are being considered.
The Fire Chief recommends that the proceeds from the sale
be applied toward the marketing of this property and future
property acquisition.
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES January 22, 2002, Page 9
The Southeast Area Comprehensive Plan designates this
area for commercial land use, and the property is zoned "G-
2" Wholesale & "J" Parking.
The property measures 100.04 ft. wide (along Pennsylvania)
by 261.85 ft. deep and is 26,195.5 square feet
(approximately 0.6 acre) in size.
A 911 tower is located on the site and arrangements for its
final location must be considered.
Staff recommends approval of Act-12-01, the marketing for
sale of the fire station property located at 5550 S.
Pennsylvania for uses that are permitted in the "G-2"
Wholesale District.
The Committee found, based on its review of the location,
character and extent of Act-12-01 in accordance with its Act
285 Review procedures, that:
1. The fire station is too small for current needs.
2. The property will be surplus due to the anticipated
construction of a new fire station on the south side of
Lansing, and the City will not cease operations at the
present location until fire protection services can be
provided at another location.
3. The 911 equipment and tower will be relocated to an
alternative site if feasible. If the tower remains on
site, then an ownership, easement, or leasehold
interest in the tower, supports and equipment will
need to be retained to secure, access, and service
the tower.
4. A site plan will be required from the buyer for review
and approval by City agencies.
5. City Council approval is required for sale of the
property.
In the Urban Development Committee, it was moved and
seconded to approve Act-12-01 provided that if the 911
equipment and tower remains on site, then an ownership,
easement, or leasehold interest in the tower, supports and
equipment shall be retained to secure, access, and service
the tower.
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES January 22, 2002, Page 10
Ms. Foster made a motion, seconded by Mr. Smith to approve Act-12-2001, 5550 S.
Pennsylvania Ave. (PPN 3301-05-03-03-301-421) Market Fire Station for Sale.
On a Voice Vote, the motion carried.
5. Act-13-01, 4801 S. Cedar, Richter's Gardens (PPN 3301-
01-33-480-001), Acquire for Fire Station
Mr. Ruge made a motion, seconded by Ms. Patrick to remove Act-13-01, 4801 S.
Cedar, Richter's Gardens (PPN 3301-01-33-480-001), Acquire for Fire Station from
the table.
On a Voice Vote, the motion carried.
The Lansing Fire Department, as part of its facility
renovation project had requested permission to acquire the
property at 4801 S. Cedar Street (PPN 33-01-01-33-480-
001) for the purpose of relocating Station 6.
Finding that it is no longer being pursued, the Fire
Department's request has been withdrawn.
Mr. Ruge made a motion, seconded by Ms. Patrick to accept the withdrawal of
Act-13-01, 4801 S. Cedar, Richter's Gardens (PPN 3301-01-33-480-001), Acquire
for Fire Station from the Table.
On a Voice Vote, the motion carried.
Ms. Foster made a motion, seconded by Ms. Patrick to arise from the Committee of the
Whole.
On a Voice Vote, the motion carried.
3b. Committee of the Whole, Mr. Smith, Chair
1. Z-20-2001, Lots 10, 11 & 12 of Block 116, Original Plat,
located at the southeast corner of W. Allegan and
Townsend Streets, from "J" parking and "G-1" Business
Districts to "G-1" Business District.
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES January 22, 2002, Page 11
This is a request by the City of Lansing to rezone the
property at the southeast corner of W. Allegan and
Townsend Streets, and more particularly described as:
Lot 10, 11 and 12 of Block 116 of the Original Plat of
the Town of Michigan, now the City of Lansing,
Ingham County, Michigan, said parcel subject to all
easements and restrictions, if any
from "G-1" Business & "J" Parking Districts to "G-1"
Business District.
PLANNING BOARD ACTION on the motion was as follows:
Concurring with the Committee of the Whole action, Ms. Keene made a motion,
seconded by Ms. Patrick to approve Z-20-2001, Lots 10, 11 & 12 of Block 116,
Original Plat, located at the southeast corner of W. Allegan and Townsend
Streets, from "J" parking and "G-1" Business Districts to "G-1" Business District
with the recommendation that the Board would prefer and encourage a residential
component.
Cordill. . . Ave Foster. . . Ave
Patrick. . .Ave Smith . . Ave
Keene. . .Ave Ruge . .Aye
On a Roll call vote, there were: Ayes: 6; Nays: 0; carried; unanimous;
APPROVED
2. SLU-10-01, 200 Block, east side of Townsend Street,
Special Land Use Permit - Parking Ramp
This is a request by the City of Lansing, in cooperation with
the Boji Group of Lansing, LLC, for a Special Land Use
Permit to construct a parking ramp on the property located in
the 200 Block of the east side of Townsend Street, between
W. Allegan and Washtenaw Streets. Parking Ramps are a
use permitted in the "G-1" Business District, if a Special
Land Use Permit is approved by the City Council.
Concurring with the Committee of the Whole action, Ms. Keene made a motion,
seconded by Mr. Ruge to approve SLU-10-01, 200 Block, east side of Townsend
Street, Special Land Use Permit - Parking Ramp.
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES January 22, 2002, Page 12
Cordill. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Aye Foster. . . Ave
Patrick. . .Aye Smith . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Aye
Keene. . .Ave Ruge . .Ave
On a Roll call vote, there were: Ayes: 6; Nays: 0; carried; unanimous;
APPROVED
3. SLU-9-01 &ACT-29-2001, 1429 E. Miller Road,
New Fire Station
The applicant is requesting a special permit to allow
construction of a fire station at 1429 E. Miller Road,
(immediately east to the AT&T office), to replace the
existing station at 5550 S. Pennsylvania. ACT-29-01
is an associated application relating to the proposed
acquisition of this site by the City.
An application to rezone this parcel and the property
to the east is currently under review. The applicant is
requesting that the rezoning application be amended
for the property to be rezoned to the "D-1"
Professional Office District, as compared to "H" Light
Industrial District originally requested.
Concurring with the Committee of the Whole action, Ms. Keene made a motion,
seconded by Ms. Foster to approve SLU-9-01 & ACT-29-2001, 1429 E. Miller Road,
New Fire Station with five conditions as reported attached to the SLU-9-01
recommendation.
Cordill. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Aye Foster. . . Ave
Patrick. .Ave Smith Ave
Keene. . .Ave Ruge . .Aye
On a Roll call vote, there were: Ayes: 6; Nays: 0; carried; unanimous;
APPROVED
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES January 22, 2002, Page 13
4. Act-12-2001, 5550 S. Pennsylvania Ave. (PPN 3301-05-
03-03-301-421) Market Fire Station for Sale
The Lansing Fire Department requests permission to market
for sale the existing fire station at 5550 S. Pennsylvania Ave.
Both the building and the site are to small for current needs,
and alternate sites are being considered.
The Fire Chief recommends that the proceeds from the sale
be applied toward the marketing of this property and future
property acquisition.
The Southeast Area Comprehensive Plan designates this
area for commercial land use, and the property is zoned "G-
2" Wholesale & "J" Parking.
The property measures 100.04 ft. wide (along Pennsylvania)
by 261.85 ft. deep and is 26,195.5 square feet
(approximately 0.6 acre) in size.
A 911 tower is located on the site and arrangements for its
final location must be considered.
Staff recommends approval of Act-12-01, the marketing for
sale of the fire station property located at 5550 S.
Pennsylvania for uses that are permitted in the "G-2"
Wholesale District.
The Committee found, based on its review of the location,
character and extent of Act-12-01 in accordance with its Act
285 Review procedures, that:
1. The fire station is too small for current needs.
2. The property will be surplus due to the anticipated
construction of a new fire station on the south side of
Lansing, and the City will not cease operations at the
present location until fire protection services can be
provided at another location.
3. The 911 equipment and tower will be relocated to an
alternative site if feasible. If the tower remains on
site, then an ownership, easement, or leasehold
interest in the tower, supports and equipment will
need to be retained to secure, access, and service
the tower.
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES January 22, 2002, Page 14
4. A site plan will be required from the buyer for review
and approval by City agencies.
5. City Council approval is required for sale of the
property.
In the Urban Development Committee, it was moved and
seconded to approve Act-12-01 provided that if the 911
equipment and tower remains on site, then an ownership,
easement, or leasehold interest in the tower, supports and
equipment shall be retained to secure, access, and service
the tower.
Concurring with the Committee of the Whole action, Ms. Keene made a motion,
seconded by Ms. Patrick to approve Act-12-2001, 5550 S. Pennsylvania Ave. (PPN
3301-05-03-03-301-421) Market Fire Station for Sale.
Cordill. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ave Foster. . . Aye
Patrick. . .Ave Smith . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ave
Keene. . .Ave Ruge . .Aye
On a Roll call vote, there were: Ayes: 6; Nays: 0; carried; unanimous;
APPROVED
5. Act-13-01, 4801 S. Cedar, Richter's Gardens (PPN 3301-
01-33-480-001), Acquire for Fire Station
The Lansing Fire Department, as part of its facility
renovation project had requested permission to acquire the
property at 4801 S. Cedar Street (PPN 33-01-01-33-480-
001) for the purpose of relocating Station 6.
Finding that it is no longer being pursued, the Fire
Department's request has been withdrawn.
Ms. Keene made a motion, seconded by Ms. Cordill to accept the withdrawal of
Act-13-01, 4801 S. Cedar, Richter's Gardens (PPN 3301-01-33-480-001), Acquire
for Fire Station from the Table.
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES January 22, 2002, Page 15
Cordill. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Aye Foster. . . Ave
Patrick. . .Ave Smith . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Aye
Keene. . .Aye Ruge . .Aye
On a Roll call vote, there were: Ayes: 6; Nays: 0; carried; unanimous;
APPROVED
4. Executive Committee - none
C. REPORT FROM PLANNING MANAGER
1. Wolverine Pipe Line information was provided and discussion
ensued.
D. PENDING ITEMS (future action required)
1. Zoning and Ordinance Committee
a. - -98, 1223 N. I urner St.,"H"Light Industrial District to"G-1" Business District
Tabled February 11 1998)
b. -5-98,401-407 E. GJrand River,"F"Commercial District to"G-1"Business
District(Tabled June 10, 1998)
C. Z-8-2000, 3901 S. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., "F"Commercial to"H"Light
Industrial District(Tabled June 14,2000)
d. Z-15-2000, 301 W. Lenawee Street, Professional Office to"G-1" Business
District(Tabled January 17,2001
e. P-1-2001,Tentative Preliminary lat,Wexford Woods (Tabled June 13, May 9,
2001)
f. PRD-2-01, "Crystal Woods", Planned Residential Neighborhood (Tabled August
15,2001)
g. Z-8-01, Willoughby Rd.,"A" Residential to"DM-1" Residential,"D-1" Professional
Office and"C"Residential (Tabled October 10,2001
h. SLU-6-01, 517-519 E. Grand River Ave., Church in"�-1"Commercial District
(Tabled November 14,2001)
i. SLU-8-01, 3000 W. Miller Road,Additional Parking for an Existing Church
(Tabled November 14,2001)
2. Urban Development Committee
a. Act-9-2000,201 E. Grand River Avenue, Proj. Sign Over ROW (Tabled June 27,
2000)
b. Discussion of Comprehensive Planning Process.
3. Committee of the Whole
4. Planning Board
8. NEW BUSINESS
A. Planning Office Work Program and Budget for FY 2003
There was a general discussion.
Ms. Keene made a motion; seconded by Ms. Cordill to approve the recommended
Planning Office Work Program and Budget for FY 2003.
Cordill. Ave Foster. Ave
Patrick. .Ave Smith Ave
Keene. .Ave Ruge .Aye
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES January 22, 2002, Page 16
On a Roll call vote, there were: Ayes: 6; Nays: 0; carried; unanimous;
APPROVED
9. COMMENTS FROM CHAIRPERSON - None.
10. COMMENTS FROM BOARD MEMBERS
Ms. Foster mentioned the upcoming American Planning Association Meeting in
Chicago. There was a general discussion.
Mr. Ruge mentioned the balconies that were planned for Washington Square.
There was a general discussion.
Mr. Ruge also mentioned the Church on Michigan Avenue that bought the Midas
Muffler Shop and was wondering if any movement was made on the landscaping
and buffering of the parking lot. Ms. Stachowiak stated the Planning Office is
presently reviewing the site plan for necessary improvements.
11. BOARD MEMBER CODE ENFORCEMENT NOTIFICATION REPORTS
Mr. Ruge mentioned the CB Richard Ellis Report. There was a general
discussion.
12. ADJOURNMENT - Meeting was adjourned at 9:30 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
James A. Ruff, Secretary, Planning Board
PB Minutes.012202.wpd
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES February 19, 2002, Page 3
also asked whether Martin Property Development would be working
closely with the EPA and the State of Michigan to maintain the proper
permits to build. She stated that this is important and should always be
addressed because the environment is important to everybody whether
commercial or residential. She stated that her family is in favor of the
nearby development of a fire station but still concerned with the EPA
standards for residential and how it will affect this area. Her father has
lived at this address for almost 47 years and she feels her family deserves
to have the same standards as everyone around them.
Mr. Frederick stated there was no one available to answer her question
regarding property taxes. He referred Ms. Eveleigh to the City Tax
Assessor's Office.
Ms. Stachowiak stated that Mr. Clark's property was not being rezoned
and that it will remain residential. She also stated that, in case of fire, the
home could be rebuilt. The property is currently zoned as single-family
residential and will remain zoned as single-family residential. Ms.
Stachowiak commented that the property taxes should not change and
stated that it would be best addressed by the City Tax Assessor's Office.
Ms. Stachowiak also addressed the Environmental Protection Agency
(EPA) standards and stated that all buildings must meet code
requirements. She stated that there were no environmental concerns at
this time and if there are, the applicant/owner would have to comply with
all the DEQ and EPA standards.
There was a general discussion between Ms. Stachowiak and Ms.
Eveleigh regarding environmental concerns.
Anne Clark, daughter of Mr. Clark and former resident of 1801 E.
Miller Road, is concerned with the environment surrounding her father's
property, the construction of the buildings and the amount of dust that will
be in the environment. She stated that she is concerned about the health
of people around the area, especially her family. If there are health issues
happening at the time of construction, she will become involved. She is
concerned about parking accommodations for the employees of the local
businesses. She stated that there is a heavy amount of traffic in the area
between 5:00 - 6:00 p.m. She questioned where the employees of the
local business were going to be exiting and if it would be onto Miller Road.
She also questioned if there was going to be a rear exit to the parking lots
and expressed concern about traffic cutting through her father's property.
Ms. Stachowiak stated that the issues of access and construction on the
lot have not been addressed at this time. She also stated that this
rezoning is for an unknown use. However, she did state that when it was
time to develop the lot, the owner of the property would have to undergo a
site plan review. This review will require the Planning Office to review
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES February 19, 2002, Page 4
drainage, parking, lighting and landscaping of the lot. Ms. Stachowiak
assured Ms. Clark that the area surrounding her father's property will have
to be landscaped on the applicant's property and will require screening
and buffering so her father would not have to view the parking area.
These issues have not been addressed for the rezoning, but will be
considered in the site plan review.
There was a general discussion between Ms. Stachowiak and Ms. Clark
about notices for the site plan review.
Ms. Clark stated that her parents are very old and cannot tolerate a lot of
dust or activity in their environment. She also stated that the area
surrounding her father's property is very pretty and full of wildlife.
B. ACT-2-2002, 310 Seymour Street, Acquire for Public Purpose
Bill Rieske gave a brief overview.
The City Development Office, representing the City, requests
authorization to acquire the property at 310 Seymour Street from the
Lansing Housing Commission and develop it for public use. The
acquisition will result in the removal of the fire damaged structure, most of
which is vacant, and allow the City to develop and utilize the lot for public
purposes in conjunction with the City owned property to the north.
The property was acquired in the 1960s in the Urban Renewal #1, for
public purposes, including multi-family housing. The program was closed
out in the mid-1970s.
The building at 310 Seymour contains 101 (56 efficiency, 44 one-
bedroom, and 1 two-bedroom) dwelling units. In March, 2000, it was
extensively damaged by fire. All residents were relocated to other
affordable units in accordance with Lansing Housing Commission (LHC)
relocation guidelines. Currently, all housing units are vacant and the LHC
is the building's sole occupant.
The Central Lansing Comprehensive Plan designates this area for
residential use (20+ units/acre). This designation coincides with the use
existing at the time of the Plan's adoption, and with the future land use
map in the 1986 River Island Comprehensive Plan amendment. The
Central Lansing Plan also recommends preserving the urban
design/primarily historic nature of the surrounding area, which includes
architecturally significant churches and residential structures used for
residential, office and mixed uses, and encourages compatible infill
development.
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES February 19, 2002, Page 5
The property abuts Ionia Street, which along with Shiawassee nearby,
was converted to two-way service at the recommendation of the Central
Lansing Plan. Capitol Avenue, which also abuts the property, is a major
arterial (currently, one-way, south bound). Capitol was also
recommended for two-way conversion, and this proposal remains under
study. Shiawassee is a collector street and Ionia and Seymour are
residential streets.
Mr. Rieske stated that ACT-2-2002 will be taken before the Urban
Development Committee on Tuesday, February 26, 2002 at 4:00 p.m.,
316 N. Capitol Avenue, Suite D-1, at which time a recommendation will be
made.
There was a general discussion about the property being used for parking
and also the proposal of the Lansing Housing Commission to sell the
property.
Chuck Calati, resident of 313 Seymour, stated he and his wife moved to
this address two and a half years ago because they liked the urban
environment. Since they moved to Seymour Street, the Roosevelt office
building, which was located kitty corner from their home, had been
demolished. Mr. Calati mentioned that the Diocese of Grand Rapids
demolished a single-family home next door and attempted to develop the
property as a parking lot. Because the Diocese would not comply with the
setback requirements, the request was blocked. He stated that the
building across the street was occupied by senior citizens and felt this
provided a great service to the community. He is concerned about the
property being developed as a parking lot and stated that once developed
as a parking lot, it would become permanent. He feels there are better
uses for the development of the property and stated that turning urban
spaces into parking lots has no bearing on the City's goal to have people
live downtown. He commented that putting cars before people seems to
be taking a step backwards. He feels there is no effort being done by the
Lansing Housing Commission to offer the property to another developer
who could renovate and convert the property into market rate apartments
without demolishing the basic structure. He is not sure how much
damage was done by the fire but feels the Fire Department, being a few
blocks away, managed to save the main structure. He feels the idea of
purchasing the property, demolishing the structure and converting the
property to a parking lot is premature. He feels the City may not have
explored all the options for development of the property. He stated that if
the property is no longer suitable for senior housing, it may better serve
the community as transitional housing for single people or provide
opportunities for homeless people to have permanent housing. He hopes
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES February 19, 2002, Page 6
the Planning Board will consider other alternatives for the development of
the property.
Referred to the next Urban Development Committee meeting, Tuesday,
March 26, 2002 at 316 N. Capitol Avenue.
5. COMMENTS FROM THE AUDIENCE
Jim Brazier of the Lansing Pulse, located on Turner Street, stated that he is
looking for the Capitol Improvements Plan, Charter 7-109 that the City is
supposed to review annually. He quoted: "The capital improvements plan shall
be prepared by the Planning Department is accordance with applicable State
law, as Municipal Planning Act and Uniform Budgeting Act." He continued with
"The Planning Board, through the Planning Department and other City
departments, agencies and boards, shall annually review and submit to the
Mayor and City Council a capital improvements plan for the ensuing six (6)
years." The last time he found the Capitol Improvements Plan in City Council
proceedings was in 1988. He questioned the Board to see if the reviews had
been done. He commented that some of the Board Members may have served
for several years and was wondering where he could find these reviews.
Mr. Rieske commented that the public hearing was held on November 20, 2001
and the Capital Improvements scheduling had been moved to the Budget Office
when the Planning Office staff had been reduced. Since that time, the Planning
Office hasn't resumed that role.
There was a general discussion between Mr. Rieske and Mr. Brazier about the
Capital Improvements Plan hearing and where to obtain information regarding
the Capital Improvements Plan.
6. RECESS was taken by the Board.
During the recess, the Board dissolved into the Committee of the Whole. Ms.
Foster made the motion; seconded by Ms. Cordill. On a voice vote, the motion
carried (6-0).
3a. Committee of the Whole
1. Z-16-2001, NW Corner of Aurelius and Miller Road,
"A" Residential & "DM-3" Residential to "D-1"
Professional Office District
This is a request by Martin Property Development to rezone
a parcel of land located northwest of the intersection of
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES February 19, 2002, Page 7
Miller Rd. and Aurelius Rd. and is more specifically
described as:
A parcel of land in the Southeast 114 of Section 3,
T3N, R21N, Delhi Township, Ingham County,
Michigan, the Boundary of said parcel described as:
thence N89 °35'10"W along the South line of Section
3 a distance of 2261.04 feet, thence N00 `04'27"W
330.00 feet; thence S89 '35'10"E parallel with the
said South line 264.00 feet, thence S00 °0427E
62.99 feet; thence S89 °35'10"E parallel with said
South line 1997.38 feet to the East line of Section 3;
thence S00 000'00"W along said East line 26 7.01 feet
to the point of beginning.
This property is requested to be rezoned from "A"
Residential District and "DM-3" Residential District to "D-1"
Professional Office District.
Mr. Ruge commented that there is a residential property in
the middle of this area. There was a general discussion
between Mr. Ruge and Ms. Stachowiak regarding the type of
buffering that would be required around the proposed
property. There was also a discussion about building height
requirements and types of setbacks for the proposed
property.
Mr. Frederick questioned what City department would be
responsible for handling the issues of dust or contamination
during construction. Ms. Stachowiak commented that the
dust issue would be considered a nuisance and would be
the responsibility and enforcement of the City's Code
Compliance Office. She stated that any environmental
concerns would require Public Service to become involved
as well as the State of Michigan, Department of
Environmental Quality. Ms. Stachowiak commented that
none of the research so far has revealed any signs of
environmental problems.
Ms. Foster questioned the requirements of the Sediment
Erosion Control Plan. Ms. Stachowiak stated that this plan
is a primary requirement of Site Plan Review and that Public
Service reviews the plan.
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES February 19, 2002, Page 8
There was a general discussion about zoning issues in the
"D-1" Professional Office District.
Mr. Ruge questioned the possibility of implementing a
service road in the back of the residential property. Ms.
Stachowiak commented that the survey she presented to the
Board does not display a service road and that the lot
behind the residential property is zoned Light Industrial.
There was a general discussion about ownership of the lot
behind the residential property and also access from the lot
to Miller Road.
Mr. Ruge made a motion, seconded by Mr. Frederick to approve Z-16-2001, NW
Corner of Aurelius and Miller Road, "A" Residential & "DM-3" Residential to "D-1"
Professional Office District.
On a Voice Vote, the motion carried without approval (5-1).
Once the Board completed business, Ms. Patrick made a motion, seconded by Ms.
Foster to arise from the Committee of the Whole. On a voice vote, the motion carried
(6-0).
7. BUSINESS SESSION
A. Ms. Cordill moved; seconded by Ms. Foster to approve the minutes of
February 5, 2002 as written.
On a voice vote, motion carried (6-0), the Minutes of February 5, 2002
( were
APPROVED as WRITTEN.
B. Committee Reports
1. ZONING AND ORDINANCE COMMITTEE, Mr. Ruge, Chair
a. LS-17-2001, 5600 Kaynorth Street
This is a request by Alex Boegner to divide a parcel located
at 5600 Kaynorth Street and more particularly described as:
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES February 19, 2002, Page 9
Lot 15, Assessors Plat #58, City of Lansing, Ingham
County, Michigan
into two parcels. An existing house would be located on one
of the parcels. The other parcel would be less than the
minimum width requirements of 70 feet for a corner lot, set
forth in Section 1236.07 (b). In addition, both parcels would
be less than the minimum depth requirement of 100 feet set
forth in Section 1236.07 (c). A variance from the design
requirements of the Subdivision Regulations is, therefore,
requested.
Mr. Ruge stated that the Zoning and Ordinance Committee
met earlier this evening at 6:15 p.m. He gave a brief
overview of LS-17-2001, 5600 Kaynorth Street.
Mr. Ruge stated that the lots, after lot splits, would both be
less than the minimum requirements of the ordinance. He
stated that the surrounding lots were fairly large and that
these two lots would be different in size than those
surrounding it.
PLANNING BOARD ACTION on the motion was as follows:
Mr. Ruge made a motion, seconded by Ms. Foster to recommend denial of LS-17-2001,
5600 Kaynorth Street.
Frederick . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ave Foster. . . Ave
Patrick. . .Ave Ruge . Ave
Smith. .Ave Cordill .Ave
On a Roll call vote, there were: Ayes: 6; Nays: 0; carried; unanimous;
DENIED.
b. Z-21-2001, 2717 Turner Street, "F" Commercial to "C"
Residential District
This is a request by Mike Markey, representing Markey
Associates, to rezone the easterly 139 feet of the property
located at 2717 Turner Street, which is located between
2703 and 2801 Turner Street and more particularly
described as:
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES February 19, 2002, Page 10
Lot 4, Assessors Plat #34, City of Lansing, Ingham
County, Michigan, according to the recorded plat
thereof as recorded in Liber 11 of Plats, page 15,
Ingham County Records
from "F" Commercial to "C" Residential District. The
applicant proposes to build a duplex on the subject property.
PLANNING BOARD ACTION on the motion was as follows:
Mr. Ruge made a motion, seconded by Ms. Foster to recommend approval of
Z-21-2001, 2717 Turner Street, "F" Commercial to "C" Residential District.
Frederick Ave Foster Ave
Patrick. .Ave Ruge Ave
Smith. .Ave Cordill .Ave
On a Roll call vote, there were: Ayes: 6; Nays: 0; carried; unanimous;
APPROVED.
C. Z-1-2002, 400 Block of Dorrance Place, "H" Light
Industrial District to "A" Residential District
This is a request by Ferris Development, to rezone four
properties on the west side of the street in the 400 block of
Dorrance Place and more particularly described as:
Lot 1, 2, 3 and 4 of Block 3, Assessor's Plat No. 7,
City of Lansing, Ingham County Michigan
from "H" Light Industrial District to "DM-3" Residential
District. The applicant is proposing to construct four, three-
bedroom, single family homes with detached garages.
Staff recommends denial of the original request to rezone
the four lots in the 400 block of Dorrance Place on the west
side of the street to the "DM-3" Residential District.
However, staff recommends approval of rezoning the
property to the "A" Residential District.
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES February 19, 2002, Page 11
PLANNING BOARD ACTION on the motion was as follows:
Mr. Ruge made a motion, seconded by Ms. Foster to recommend approval of Z-1-2002,
400 Block of Dorrance Place, "H" Light Industrial District to "A" Residential
District.
Ave
Frederick . . Ave Foster •
Patrick. . .Ave Ruge • Ave
Smith. . .Ave Cordill .Ave
On a Roll call vote, there were: Ayes: 6; Nays: 0; carried; unanimous;
APPROVED.
Next meeting, Wednesday, March 13, 2002 at 4:00 p.m.
316 N. Capitol Ave., Department Conference Room.
2. URBAN DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE, Ms. Patrick, Chair
Next meeting, Tuesday, February 26, 2002, at 4:00 p.m.
316 N. Capitol Ave., Department Conference Room.
3b. Committee of the Whole
1. Z-16-2001, NW Corner of Aurelius and Miller Road,
"A" Residential & "DM-3" Residential to "D-1"
Professional Office District
This is a request by Martin Property Development to rezone
a parcel of land located northwest of the intersection of
Miller Rd. and Aurelius Rd. and more specifically described
as:
A parcel of land in the Southeast 114 of Section 3,
T3N, R2W, Delhi Township, Ingham County,
Michigan, the Boundary of said parcel described as:
thence N89 °35'10"W along the South line of Section
3 a distance of 2261.04 feet, thence N00 `04'27"W
330.00 feet, thence S89 '35'10"E parallel with the
said South line 264.00 feet, thence S00 904'27"E
62.99 feet, thence S89 '35'10"E parallel with said
South line 1997.38 feet to the East line of Section 3;
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES February 19, 2002, Page 12
thence S00°00'00"W along said East line 267.01 feet
to the point of beginning.
This property is requested to be rezoned from "A"
Residential District and "DM-3" Residential District to "D-1"
Professional Office District.
Mr. Smith commented that the area would be in jeopardy of
slipping into more strip-type development and in his view,
this is not what the area needs.
PLANNING BOARD ACTION on the motion was as follows:
Mr. Smith made a motion, seconded by Ms. Foster to approve Z-16-2001, NW Corner
of Aurelius and Miller Road, "A" Residential & "DM-3" Residential to "D-1"
Professional Office District.
Frederick . . Ave Foster. . . Aye
Patrick. . .Ave Ruge. . . ..... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ave
Cordill. . . .... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Ave Smith. . .Nay
On a Roll call vote, there were: Ayes: 5; Nays: 1; carried; but without recommendation
from the Planning Board.
Mr. Rieske stated that an affirmative recommendation on a rezoning case requires six
votes.
CARRIED w/o RECOMMENDATION.
4. Executive Committee - none
C. REPORT FROM PLANNING MANAGER - None.
D. PENDING ITEMS (future action required)
1. Zoning and Ordinance Committee
a. - -Yb, 1223 N. I urner St.,"H" Light Industrial District to"G-1" Business District
Tabled February 11 1998
b. -5-98,401-407 E. Grand fiver,"F"Commercial District to"G-1"Business
District((Tabled June 10, 1998)
C. Z-8-200b, 3901 S. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.,"F" Commercial to"H"Light
Industrial District((Tabled June 14,2000)
d. Z-15-2000, 301 W. Lenawee Street, Professional Office to"G-1" Business
District(Tabled January 17,2001
e. P-1-2001,Tentative Preliminary lat,Wexford Woods(Tabled June 13, May 9,
2001)
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES February 19, 2002, Page 13
f. PRD-2-01,"Crystal Woods", Planned Residential Neighborhood (Tabled August
15, 2001
g. Z-8-01, illoughby Rd.,"A" Residential to"DM-1" Residential,"D-1" Professional
Office and"C" Residential (Tabled October 10, 2001
h. SLU-6-01,517-519 E. Grand River Ave., Church in"�-1" Commercial District
(Tabled November 14,2001)
i. SLU-8-01, 3000 W. Miller Road,Additional Parking for an Existing Church
(Tabled November 14,2001)
2. Urban Development Committee
a. Act-9-2000,201 E. Grand River Avenue, Proj. Sign Over ROW (Tabled June 27,
2000)
b. Act-27-01, 313 E. Grand River Ave. (Comfort Station), Market for Sale(Tabled
November 27, 2001)
C. Discussion of Comprehensive Planning Process.
3. Committee of the Whole
4. Planning Board
8. NEW BUSINESS - None.
9. COMMENTS FROM CHAIRPERSON
Mr. Frederick gave a heartfelt thanks for his excused absence because of a
broken ankle.
10. COMMENTS FROM BOARD MEMBERS
Ms. Cordill stated that her baby is due the end of March and that she hopes to
attend the March 5, 2002 Planning Board meeting.
Ms. Foster stated that she has not received a parking pass for the garage and
was wondering when the pass would be available.
There was a general discussion and clarification on which committee Mr. Smith
and Ms. Foster are members. Ms. Foster stated that the Urban Development
Committee meeting minutes were wrong in listing her in attendance at the last
meeting.
There was a general discussion regarding the status of Mr. Harry Hepler's
development of the property located on May Street, north of the Lansing Police
Department Precinct.
Ms. Patrick commented on the creative development of the D.O.C. building on
the Corner of Jolly and Cedar Streets. She stated that the building was
demolished and a new building was constructed further south in the parking lot.
She has heard a few complaints about the sight of the building but feels the new
location will help improve visibility at that intersection. She also commented on
how smooth the renovations have been for the strip mail with very few
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES February 19, 2002, Page 14
disruptions to the intersection. She felt it was a positive influence and
encouraged the other Board members to view the area.
11. BOARD MEMBER CODE ENFORCEMENT NOTIFICATION REPORTS - None.
12. ADJOURNMENT - Meeting was adjourned at 8:27 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
James A. Ruff, Secretary, Planning Board
PB Minutes.021902.wpd
APPROVED WITH CORRECTIONS: Draft to Clerk February 27,2002
PAGE 2, UNDER MARY EVELEIGH,THIRD LINE,WASN'T S/B WAS Approved March 5,2002
PAGE 8, UNDER BUSINESS 7A, NOVEMBER 6, 2001 S/B FEBRUARY 19,2002 To Clerk March 6,2002
Minutes of the Regular Meeting
LANSING PLANNING BOARD
7:00 p.m., Tenth Floor, Council Chambers
Lansing City Hall
Tuesday, February 19, 2002
1. OPENING SESSION
The meeting was called to order at 7:05 p.m. by Chairman Frederick.
A. Roll call. Present: Foster, Frederick, Cordill, Patrick, Smith, Ruge.
B. Staff Attending: Stachowiak, Rieske.
C. Excused absence: Ms. Keene.
It was moved by Mr. Ruge, supported by Mr. Smith to approve an excused
absence request for Ms. Keene. On a Voice Vote, the motion carried
unanimously (6-0).
2. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
It was moved by Mr. Ruge, supported by Ms. Cordill to approve the agenda.
On a voice vote, the motion carried unanimously (6-0).
3. COMMUNICATIONS
A. Bill Rieske presented a preliminary agenda for the next Urban
Development meeting, scheduled for February 26, 2002.
4. PUBLIC HEARINGS
A. Z-16-2001, NW Corner of Aurelius and Miller Road, "A" Residential &
"DM-3" Residential to "D-1" Professional Office District
This is a request by Martin Property Development to rezone a parcel of
land located northwest of the intersection of Miller Rd. and Aurelius Rd.
and more specifically described as:
A parcel of land in the Southeast 114 of Section 3, T3N, R2W, Delhi
Township, Ingham County, Michigan, the Boundary of said parcel
described as: thence N89 °35'10"W along the South line of Section
3 a distance of 2261.04 feet, thence N00 904'27"W 330.00 feet;
thence S89 035'10"E parallel with the said South line 264.00 feet;
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES February 19, 2002, Page 2
thence S00 004'27"E 62.99 feet; thence S89 °35'10"E parallel with
said South line 1997.38 feet to the East line of Section 3; thence
S00 °00'00"W along said East line 267.01 feet to the point of
beginning.
This property is requested to be rezoned from "A" Residential District and
"DM-3" Residential District to "D-1" Professional Office District.
Sue Stachowiak gave a brief overview.
John Peckham, Martin Property Development of East Lansing,
represented the applicant, Mr. Dorian Lange. He clarified that Martin
Property Development appeared before the Planning Board about a
month or two ago regarding rezoning of the property and in Committee
was asked if Martin Property Development would be willing to amend its
rezoning request to the Professional Office District as opposed to the "H"
Light Industrial District. After careful consideration, Martin Property
Development decided to amend the request to the Professional Office
District based on staff recommendations and the Planning Commission's
denial of the request for "H" Light Industrial District. At the City Council
level, the City Attorney felt that this wasn't the way it was originally
advertised and that there could be a potential problem as it relates to the
advertising of incorrect information relating to the zoning. Mr. Peckham
apologized for the confusion of the rezoning and stated that Martin
Property Development is basically starting over with their rezoning
request. He stated that Martin Property Development is willing to go back
to Committee if the Planning Board feels its appropriate, and that this
request is consistent with discussions from previous meetings.
Mary Eveleigh, resident of 1801 E. Miller Road, represented her father,
Paisley T. Clark, who owns a residence nearby. She stated that her
father was (wasn't) the only one whose property was zoned "A"
Residential District. She stated that this was better planning than the first
time as far as industrial because it was leaving the property open for a lot
of things. Her father is concerned with his property being "A" Residential
District and she stated that if Martin Property Development has
professional office zoning around her father's property, it would allow
commercial dwellings to surround the property. She is concerned that this
will affect her father's property taxes and maybe tax him right out of his
property. She questioned the possibility of her father being permitted to
rebuild his home in case of a fire. She expressed her concerns about the
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) standards. She commented that
commercial standards are different than residential standards and
questioned whether there was protection under these standards. She
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES February 19, 2002, Page 3
also asked whether Martin Property Development would be working
closely with the EPA and the State of Michigan to maintain the proper
permits to build. She stated that this is important and should always be
addressed because the environment is important to everybody whether
commercial or residential. She stated that her family is in favor of the
nearby development of a fire station but still concerned with the EPA
standards for residential and how it will affect this area. Her father has
lived at this address for almost 47 years and she feels her family deserves
to have the same standards as everyone around them.
Mr. Frederick stated there was no one available to answer her question
regarding property taxes. He referred Ms. Eveleigh to the City Tax
Assessor's Office.
Ms. Stachowiak stated that Mr. Clark's property was not being rezoned
and that it will remain residential. She also stated that, in case of fire, the
home could be rebuilt. The property is currently zoned as single-family
residential and will remain zoned as single-family residential. Ms.
Stachowiak commented that the property taxes should not change and
stated that it would be best addressed by the City Tax Assessor's Office.
Ms. Stachowiak also addressed the Environmental Protection Agency
(EPA) standards and stated that all buildings must meet code
requirements. She stated that there were no environmental concerns at
this time and if there are, the applicant/owner would have to comply with
all the DEQ and EPA standards.
There was a general discussion between Ms. Stachowiak and Ms.
Eveleigh regarding environmental concerns.
Anne Clark, daughter of Mr. Clark and former resident of 1801 E.
Miller Road, is concerned with the environment surrounding her father's
property, the construction of the buildings and the amount of dust that will
be in the environment. She stated that she is concerned about the health
of people around the area, especially her family. If there are health issues
happening at the time of construction, she will become involved. She is
concerned about parking accommodations for the employees of the local
businesses. She stated that there is a heavy amount of traffic in the area
between 5:00 - 6:00 p.m. She questioned where the employees of the
local business were going to be exiting and if it would be onto Miller Road.
She also questioned if there was going to be a rear exit to the parking lots
and expressed concern about traffic cutting through her father's property.
Ms. Stachowiak stated that the issues of access and construction on the
lot have not been addressed at this time. She also stated that this
rezoning is for an unknown use. However, she did state that when it was
time to develop the lot, the owner of the property would have to undergo a
site plan review. This review will require the Planning Office to review
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES February 19, 2002, Page 4
drainage, parking, lighting and landscaping of the lot. Ms. Stachowiak
assured Ms. Clark that the area surrounding her father's property will have
to be landscaped on the applicant's property and will require screening
and buffering so her father would not have to view the parking area.
These issues have not been addressed for the rezoning, but will be
considered in the site plan review.
There was a general discussion between Ms. Stachowiak and Ms. Clark
about notices for the site plan review.
Ms. Clark stated that her parents are very old and cannot tolerate a lot of
dust or activity in their environment. She also stated that the area
surrounding her father's property is very pretty and full of wildlife.
B. ACT-2-2002, 310 Seymour Street, Acquire for Public Purpose
Bill Rieske gave a brief overview.
The City Development Office, representing the City, requests
authorization to acquire the property at 310 Seymour Street from the
Lansing Housing Commission and develop it for public use. The
acquisition will result in the removal of the fire damaged structure, most of
which is vacant, and allow the City to develop and utilize the lot for public
purposes in conjunction with the City owned property to the north.
The property was acquired in the 1960s in the Urban Renewal #1, for
public purposes, including multi-family housing. The program was closed
out in the mid-1970s.
The building at 310 Seymour contains 101 (56 efficiency, 44 one-
bedroom, and 1 two-bedroom) dwelling units. In March, 2000, it was
extensively damaged by fire. All residents were relocated to other
affordable units in accordance with Lansing Housing Commission (LHC)
relocation guidelines. Currently, all housing units are vacant and the LHC
is the building's sole occupant.
The Central Lansing Comprehensive Plan designates this area for
residential use (20+ units/acre). This designation coincides with the use
existing at the time of the Plan's adoption, and with the future land use
map in the 1986 River Island Comprehensive Plan amendment. The
Central Lansing Plan also recommends preserving the urban
design/primarily historic nature of the surrounding area, which includes
architecturally significant churches and residential structures used for
residential, office and mixed uses, and encourages compatible infill
development.
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES February 19, 2002, Page 5
The property abuts Ionia Street, which along with Shiawassee nearby,
was converted to two-way service at the recommendation of the Central
Lansing Plan. Capitol Avenue, which also abuts the property, is a major
arterial (currently, one-way, south bound). Capitol was also
recommended for two-way conversion, and this proposal remains under
study. Shiawassee is a collector street and Ionia and Seymour are
residential streets.
Mr. Rieske stated that ACT-2-2002 will be taken before the Urban
Development Committee on Tuesday, February 26, 2002 at 4:00 p.m.,
316 N. Capitol Avenue, Suite D-1, at which time a recommendation will be
made.
There was a general discussion about the property being used for parking
and also the proposal of the Lansing Housing Commission to sell the
property.
Chuck Calati, resident of 313 Seymour, stated he and his wife moved to
this address two and a half years ago because they liked the urban
environment. Since they moved to Seymour Street, the Roosevelt office
building, which was located kitty corner from their home, had been
demolished. Mr. Calati mentioned that the Diocese of Grand Rapids
demolished a single-family home next door and attempted to develop the
property as a parking lot. Because the Diocese would not comply with the
setback requirements, the request was blocked. He stated that the
building across the street was occupied by senior citizens and felt this
provided a great service to the community. He is concerned about the
property being developed as a parking lot and stated that once developed
as a parking lot, it would become permanent. He feels there are better
uses for the development of the property and stated that turning urban
spaces into parking lots has no bearing on the City's goal to have people
live downtown. He commented that putting cars before people seems to
be taking a step backwards. He feels there is no effort being done by the
Lansing Housing Commission to offer the property to another developer
who could renovate and convert the property into market rate apartments
without demolishing the basic structure. He is not sure how much
damage was done by the fire but feels the Fire Department, being a few
blocks away, managed to save the main structure. He feels the idea of
purchasing the property, demolishing the structure and converting the
property to a parking lot is premature. He feels the City may not have
explored all the options for development of the property. He stated that if
the property is no longer suitable for senior housing, it may better serve
the community as transitional housing for single people or provide
opportunities for homeless people to have permanent housing. He hopes
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES February 19, 2002, Page 6
the Planning Board will consider other alternatives for the development of
the property.
Referred to the next Urban Development Committee meeting, Tuesday,
March 26, 2002 at 316 N. Capitol Avenue.
5. COMMENTS FROM THE AUDIENCE
Jim Brazier of the Lansing Pulse, located on Turner Street, stated that he is
looking for the Capitol Improvements Plan, Charter 7-109 that the City is
supposed to review annually. He quoted: "The capital improvements plan shall
be prepared by the Planning Department is accordance with applicable State
law, as Municipal Planning Act and Uniform Budgeting Act." He continued with
"The Planning Board, through the Planning Department and other City
departments, agencies and boards, shall annually review and submit to the
Mayor and City Council a capital improvements plan for the ensuing six (6)
years." The last time he found the Capitol Improvements Plan in City Council
proceedings was in 1988. He questioned the Board to see if the reviews had
been done. He commented that some of the Board Members may have served
for several years and was wondering where he could find these reviews.
Mr. Rieske commented that the public hearing was held on November 20, 2001
and the Capital Improvements scheduling had been moved to the Budget Office
when the Planning Office staff had been reduced. Since that time, the Planning
Office hasn't resumed that role.
There was a general discussion between Mr. Rieske and Mr. Brazier about the
Capital Improvements Plan hearing and where to obtain information regarding
the Capital Improvements Plan.
6. RECESS was taken by the Board.
During the recess, the Board dissolved into the Committee of the Whole. Ms.
Foster made the motion; seconded by Ms. Cordill. On a voice vote, the motion
carried (6-0).
3a. Committee of the Whole
1. Z-16-2001, NW Corner of Aurelius and Miller Road,
"A" Residential & "DM-3" Residential to "D-1"
Professional Office District
This is a request by Martin Property Development to rezone
a parcel of land located northwest of the intersection of
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES February 19, 2002, Page 7
Miller Rd. and Aurelius Rd. and is more specifically
described as:
A parcel of land in the Southeast 114 of Section 3,
T3N, R2W, Delhi Township, Ingham County,
Michigan, the Boundary of said parcel described as:
thence N89 °35'10"W along the South line of Section
3 a distance of 2261.04 feet, thence N00 904'27W
330.00 feet, thence S89 035'10"E parallel with the
said South line 264.00 feet, thence S00 °0427"E
62.99 feet, thence S89 035'10"E parallel with said
South line 1997.38 feet to the East line of Section 3;
thence S00°00'00"W along said East line 267.01 feet
to the point of beginning.
This property is requested to be rezoned from "A"
Residential District and "DM-3" Residential District to "D-1"
Professional Office District.
Mr. Ruge commented that there is a residential property in
the middle of this area. There was a general discussion
between Mr. Ruge and Ms. Stachowiak regarding the type of
buffering that would be required around the proposed
property. There was also a discussion about building height
requirements and types of setbacks for the proposed
property.
Mr. Frederick questioned what City department would be
responsible for handling the issues of dust or contamination
during construction. Ms. Stachowiak commented that the
dust issue would be considered a nuisance and would be
the responsibility and enforcement of the City's Code
Compliance Office. She stated that any environmental
concerns would require Public Service to become involved
as well as the State of Michigan, Department of
Environmental Quality. Ms. Stachowiak commented that
none of the research so far has revealed any signs of
environmental problems.
Ms. Foster questioned the requirements of the Sediment
Erosion Control Plan. Ms. Stachowiak stated that this plan
is a primary requirement of Site Plan Review and that Public
Service reviews the plan.
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES February 19, 2002, Page 8
There was a general discussion about zoning issues in the
"D-1" Professional Office District.
Mr. Ruge questioned the possibility of implementing a
service road in the back of the residential property. Ms.
Stachowiak commented that the survey she presented to the
Board does not display a service road and that the lot
behind the residential property is zoned Light Industrial.
There was a general discussion about ownership of the lot
behind the residential property and also access from the lot
to Miller Road.
Mr. Ruge made a motion, seconded by Mr. Frederick to approve Z-16-2001, NW
Corner of Aurelius and Miller Road, "A" Residential & "DM-3" Residential to "D-1"
Professional Office District.
On a Voice Vote, the motion carried without approval (5-1).
Once the Board completed business, Ms. Patrick made a motion, seconded by Ms.
Foster to arise from the Committee of the Whole. On a voice vote, the motion carried
(6-0).
7. BUSINESS SESSION
A. Ms. Cordill moved; seconded by Ms. Foster to approve the minutes of
February 5, 2002 as written.
On a voice vote, motion carried (6-0), the Minutes of February 19, 2002
( were
APPROVED as WRITTEN.
B. Committee Reports
1. ZONING AND ORDINANCE COMMITTEE, Mr. Ruge, Chair
a. LS-17-2001, 5600 Kaynorth Street
This is a request by Alex Boegner to divide a parcel located
at 5600 Kaynorth Street and more particularly described as:
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES February 19, 2002, Page 9
Lot 15, Assessors Plat #58, City of Lansing, Ingham
County, Michigan
into two parcels. An existing house would be located on one
of the parcels. The other parcel would be less than the
minimum width requirements of 70 feet for a corner lot, set
forth in Section 1236.07 (b). In addition, both parcels would
be less than the minimum depth requirement of 100 feet set
forth in Section 1236.07 (c). A variance from the design
requirements of the Subdivision Regulations is, therefore,
requested.
Mr. Ruge stated that the Zoning and Ordinance Committee
met earlier this evening at 6:15 p.m. He gave a brief
overview of LS-17-2001, 5600 Kaynorth Street.
Mr. Ruge stated that the lots, after lot splits, would both be
less than the minimum requirements of the ordinance. He
stated that the surrounding lots were fairly large and that
these two lots would be different in size than those
surrounding it.
PLANNING BOARD ACTION on the motion was as follows:
Mr. Ruge made a motion, seconded by Ms. Foster to recommend denial of LS-17-2001,
5600 Kaynorth Street.
Frederick . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ave Foster. . . Ave
Patrick. . .Ave Ruge. . . Ave
Smith. . .Ave Cordill . .Ave
On a Roll call vote, there were: Ayes: 6; Nays: 0; carried; unanimous;
DENIED.
b. Z-21-2001, 2717 Turner Street, "F" Commercial to "C"
Residential District
This is a request by Mike Markey, representing Markey
Associates, to rezone the easterly 139 feet of the property
located at 2717 Turner Street, which is located between
2703 and 2801 Turner Street and more particularly
described as:
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES February 19, 2002, Page 10
Lot 4, Assessors Plat #34, City of Lansing, Ingham
County, Michigan, according to the recorded plat
thereof as recorded in Liber 11 of Plats, page 15,
Ingham County Records
from "F" Commercial to "C" Residential District. The
applicant proposes to build a duplex on the subject property.
PLANNING BOARD ACTION on the motion was as follows:
Mr. Ruge made a motion, seconded by Ms. Foster to recommend approval of
Z-21-2001, 2717 Turner Street, "F" Commercial to "C" Residential District.
Frederick . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ave Foster. . . Ave
Patrick. . .Ave Ruge. . . Ave
Smith. . .Ave Cordill . .Ave
On a Roll call vote, there were: Ayes: 6; Nays: 0; carried; unanimous;
APPROVED.
C. Z-1-2002, 400 Block of Dorrance Place, "H" Light
Industrial District to "A" Residential District
This is a request by Ferris Development, to rezone four
properties on the west side of the street in the 400 block of
Dorrance Place and more particularly described as:
Lot 1, 2, 3 and 4 of Block 3, Assessor's Plat No. 7,
City of Lansing, Ingham County Michigan
from "H" Light Industrial District to "DM-3" Residential
District. The applicant is proposing to construct four, three-
bedroom, single family homes with detached garages.
Staff recommends denial of the original request to rezone
the four lots in the 400 block of Dorrance Place on the west
side of the street to the "DM-3" Residential District.
However, staff recommends approval of rezoning the
property to the "A" Residential District.
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES February 19, 2002, Page 11
PLANNING BOARD ACTION on the motion was as follows:
Mr. Ruge made a motion, seconded by Ms. Foster to recommend approval of Z-1-2002,
400 Block of Dorrance Place, "H" Light Industrial District to "A" Residential
District.
Frederick . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ave Foster. . . Ave
Patrick. . .Ave Ruge. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ave
Smith. . .Ave Cordill . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Ave
On a Roll call vote, there were: Ayes: 6; Nays: 0; carried; unanimous;
APPROVED.
Next meeting, Wednesday, March 13, 2002 at 4:00 p.m.
316 N. Capitol Ave., Department Conference Room.
2. URBAN DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE, Ms. Patrick, Chair
Next meeting, Tuesday, February 26, 2002, at 4:00 p.m.
316 N. Capitol Ave., Department Conference Room.
3b. Committee of the Whole
1. Z-16-2001, NW Corner of Aurelius and Miller Road,
"A" Residential & "DM-3" Residential to "D-1"
Professional Office District
This is a request by Martin Property Development to rezone
a parcel of land located northwest of the intersection of
Miller Rd. and Aurelius Rd. and more specifically described
as:
A parcel of land in the Southeast 114 of Section 3,
T3N, R2W, Delhi Township, Ingham County,
Michigan, the Boundary of said parcel described as:
thence N89 °35'10"W along the South line of Section
3 a distance of 2261.04 feet, thence N00 `04'27"W
330.00 feet, thence S89 035'10"E parallel with the
said South line 264.00 feet, thence S00 004'27"E
62.99 feet, thence S89 '35'10"E parallel with said
South line 1997.38 feet to the East line of Section 3;
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES February 19, 2002, Page 12
thence S00 °00'00"W along said East line 267.01 feet
to the point of beginning.
This property is requested to be rezoned from "A"
Residential District and "DM-3" Residential District to "D-1"
Professional Office District.
Mr. Smith commented that the area would be in jeopardy of
slipping into more strip-type development and in his view,
this is not what the area needs.
PLANNING BOARD ACTION on the motion was as follows:
Mr. Smith made a motion, seconded by Ms. Foster to approve Z-16-2001, NW Corner
of Aurelius and Miller Road, "A" Residential & "DM-3" Residential to "D-1"
Professional Office District.
Frederick . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ave Foster. . . Ave
Patrick. . .Ave Ruge. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ave
Cordill. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Ave Smith. . .Nav
On a Roll call vote, there were: Ayes: 5; Nays: 1; carried; but without recommendation
from the Planning Board.
Mr. Rieske stated that an affirmative recommendation on a rezoning case requires six
votes.
CARRIED w/o RECOMMENDATION.
4. Executive Committee - none
C. REPORT FROM PLANNING MANAGER - None.
D. PENDING ITEMS (future action required)
1. Zoning and Ordinance Committee
a. - -Ub, 1226 N. I urner St., "H" Light Industrial District to"G-1"Business District
((Tabled February 11 1998))
b. z-5-98,401-407 E. drand River,"F"Commercial District to"G-1"Business
District Tabled June 10, 1998)
C. Z-8-200 , 3901 S. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.,"F"Commercial to"H" Light
Industrial District(Tabled June 14, 2000)
d. Z-15-2000, 301 W. Lenawee Street, Professional Office to"G-1"Business
District(Tabled January 17,2001
e. P-1-2001,Tentative Preliminary lat,Wexford Woods(Tabled June 13, May 9,
2001)
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES February 19, 2002, Page 13
f. PRD-2-01,"Crystal Woods", Planned Residential Neighborhood (Tabled August
15, 2001
g. Z-8-01, illoughby Rd.,"A" Residential to"DM-1"Residential,"D-V Professional
Office and"C"Residential (Tabled October 10,2001
h. SLU-6-01,517-519 E. Grand River Ave., Church in"F-1"Commercial District
(Tabled November 14, 2001)
i. SLU-8-01,3000 W. Miller Road,Additional Parking for an Existing Church
(Tabled November 14,2001)
2. Urban Development Committee
a. Act-9-2000, 201 E. Grand River Avenue, Proj. Sign Over ROW (Tabled June 27,
2000)
b. Act-27-01,313 E. Grand River Ave. (Comfort Station), Market for Sale(Tabled
November 27, 2001)
C. Discussion of Comprehensive Planning Process.
3. Committee of the Whole
4. Planning Board
8. NEW BUSINESS - None.
9. COMMENTS FROM CHAIRPERSON
Mr. Frederick gave a heartfelt thanks for his excused absence because of a
broken ankle.
10. COMMENTS FROM BOARD MEMBERS
Ms. Cordill stated that her baby is due the end of March and that she hopes to
attend the March 5, 2002 Planning Board meeting.
Ms. Foster stated that she has not received a parking pass for the garage and
was wondering when the pass would be available.
There was a general discussion and clarification on which committee Mr. Smith
and Ms. Foster are members. Ms. Foster stated that the Urban Development
Committee meeting minutes were wrong in listing her in attendance at the last
meeting.
There was a general discussion regarding the status of Mr. Harry Hepler's
development of the property located on May Street, north of the Lansing Police
Department Precinct.
Ms. Patrick commented on the creative development of the D.O.C. building on
the Corner of Jolly and Cedar Streets. She stated that the building was
demolished and a new building was constructed further south in the parking lot.
She has heard a few complaints about the sight of the building but feels the new
location will help improve visibility at that intersection. She also commented on
how smooth the renovations have been for the strip mall with very few
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES February 19, 2002, Page 14
disruptions to the intersection. She felt it was a positive influence and
encouraged the other Board members to view the area.
11. BOARD MEMBER CODE ENFORCEMENT NOTIFICATION REPORTS - None.
12. ADJOURNMENT - Meeting was adjourned at 8:27 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
James A. Ruff, Secretary, Planning Board
PB Minutes.021902.wpd
Draft to Clerk February 27,2002
Approved 2002
To Clerk 2002
Minutes of the Regular Meeting
LANSING PLANNING BOARD
7:00 p.m., Tenth Floor, Council Chambers
Lansing City Hall
Tuesday, February 19, 2002
1. OPENING SESSION
The meeting was called to order at 7:05 p.m. by Chairman Frederick.
A. Roll call. Present: Foster, Frederick, Cordill, Patrick, Smith, Ruge.
B. Staff Attending: Stachowiak, Rieske.
C. Excused absence: Ms. Keene.
It was moved by Mr. Ruge, supported by Mr. Smith to approve an excused
absence request for Ms. Keene. On a Voice Vote, the motion carried
unanimously (6-0).
2. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
It was moved by Mr. Ruge, supported by Ms. Cordill to approve the agenda.
On a voice vote, the motion carried unanimously (6-0).
3. COMMUNICATIONS
A. Bill Rieske presented a preliminary agenda for the next Urban
Development meeting, scheduled for February 26, 2002.
4. PUBLIC HEARINGS
A. Z-16-2001, NW Corner of Aurelius and Miller Road, "A" Residential &
"DM-3" Residential to "D-1" Professional Office District
This is a request by Martin Property Development to rezone a parcel of
land located northwest of the intersection of Miller Rd. and Aurelius Rd.
and more specifically described as:
A parcel of land in the Southeast 114 of Section 3, T3N, R2W, Delhi
Township, Ingham County, Michigan, the Boundary of said parcel
described as: thence N89 '35'10"W along the South line of Section
3 a distance of 2261.04 feet, thence N00 `04'27"W 330.00 feet,
thence S89 '35'10"E parallel with the said South line 264.00 feet,
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES February 19, 2002, Page 2
thence S00 °04'27"E 62.99 feet; thence S89 035'10"E parallel with
said South line 1997.38 feet to the East line of Section 3; thence
S00 °00'00"W along said East line 267.01 feet to the point of
beginning.
This property is requested to be rezoned from "A" Residential District and
"DM-Y Residential District to "D-1" Professional Office District.
Sue Stachowiak gave a brief overview.
John Peckham, Martin Property Development of East Lansing,
represented the applicant, Mr. Dorian Lange. He clarified that Martin
Property Development appeared before the Planning Board about a
month or two ago regarding rezoning of the property and in Committee
was asked if Martin Property Development would be willing to amend its
rezoning request to the Professional Office District as opposed to the "H"
Light Industrial District. After careful consideration, Martin Property
Development decided to amend the request to the Professional Office
District based on staff recommendations and the Planning Commission's
denial of the request for "H" Light Industrial District. At the City Council
level, the City Attorney felt that this wasn't the way it was originally
advertised and that there could be a potential problem as it relates to the
advertising of incorrect information relating to the zoning. Mr. Peckham
apologized for the confusion of the rezoning and stated that Martin
Property Development is basically starting over with their rezoning
request. He stated that Martin Property Development is willing to go back
to Committee if the Planning Board feels its appropriate, and that this
request is consistent with discussions from previous meetings.
Mary Eveleigh, resident of 1801 E. Miller Road, represented her father,
Paisley T. Clark, who owns a residence nearby. She stated that her
father wasn't the only one whose property was zoned "A" Residential
District. She stated that this was better planning than the first time as far
as industrial because it was leaving the property open for a lot of things.
Her father is concerned with his property being "A" Residential District and
she stated that if Martin Property Development has professional office
zoning around her father's property, it would allow commercial dwellings
to surround the property. She is concerned that this will affect her father's
property taxes and maybe tax him right out of his property. She
questioned the possibility of her father being permitted to rebuild his home
in case of a fire. She expressed her concerns about the Environmental
Protection Agency (EPA) standards. She commented that commercial
standards are different than residential standards and questioned whether
there was protection under these standards. She also asked whether
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES February 19, 2002, Page 3
Martin Property Development would be working closely with the EPA and
the State of Michigan to maintain the proper permits to build. She stated
that this is important and should always be addressed because the
environment is important to everybody whether commercial or residential.
She stated that her family is in favor of the nearby development of a fire
station but still concerned with the EPA standards for residential and how
it will affect this area. Her father has lived at this address for almost 47
years and she feels her family deserves to have the same standards as
everyone around them.
Mr. Frederick stated there was no one available to answer her question
regarding property taxes. He referred Ms. Eveleigh to the City Tax
Assessor's Office.
Ms. Stachowiak stated that Mr. Clark's property was not being rezoned
and that it will remain residential. She also stated that, in case of fire, the
home could be rebuilt. The property is currently zoned as single-family
residential and will remain zoned as single-family residential. Ms.
Stachowiak commented that the property taxes should not change and
stated that it would be best addressed by the City Tax Assessor's Office.
Ms. Stachowiak also addressed the Environmental Protection Agency
(EPA) standards and stated that all buildings must meet code
requirements. She stated that there were no environmental concerns at
this time and if there are, the applicant/owner would have to comply with
all the DEQ and EPA standards.
There was a general discussion between Ms. Stachowiak and Ms.
Eveleigh regarding environmental concerns.
Anne Clark, daughter of Mr. Clark and former resident of 1801 E.
Miller Road, is concerned with the environment surrounding her father's
property, the construction of the buildings and the amount of dust that will
be in the environment. She stated that she is concerned about the health
of people around the area, especially her family. If there are health issues
happening at the time of construction, she will become involved. She is
concerned about parking accommodations for the employees of the local
businesses. She stated that there is a heavy amount of traffic in the area
between 5:00 - 6:00 p.m. She questioned where the employees of the
local business were going to be exiting and if it would be onto Miller Road.
She also questioned if there was going to be a rear exit to the parking lots
and expressed concern about traffic cutting through her father's property.
Ms. Stachowiak stated that the issues of access and construction on the
lot have not been addressed at this time. She also stated that this
rezoning is for an unknown use. However, she did state that when it was
time to develop the lot, the owner of the property would have to undergo a
site plan review. This review will require the Planning Office to review
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES February 19, 2002, Page 4
drainage, parking, lighting and landscaping of the lot. Ms. Stachowiak
assured Ms. Clark that the area surrounding her father's property will have
to be landscaped on the applicant's property and will require screening
and buffering so her father would not have to view the parking area.
These issues have not been addressed for the rezoning, but will be
considered in the site plan review.
There was a general discussion between Ms. Stachowiak and Ms. Clark
about notices for the site plan review.
Ms. Clark stated that her parents are very old and cannot tolerate a lot of
dust or activity in their environment. She also stated that the area
surrounding her father's property is very pretty and full of wildlife.
B. ACT-2-2002, 310 Seymour Street, Acquire for Public Purpose
Bill Rieske gave a brief overview.
The City Development Office, representing the City, requests
authorization to acquire the property at 310 Seymour Street from the
Lansing Housing Commission and develop it for public use. The
acquisition will result in the removal of the fire damaged structure, most of
which is vacant, and allow the City to develop and utilize the lot for public
purposes in conjunction with the City owned property to the north.
The property was acquired in the 1960s in the Urban Renewal #1, for
public purposes, including multi-family housing. The program was closed
out in the mid-1970s.
The building at 310 Seymour contains 101 (56 efficiency, 44 one-
bedroom, and 1 two-bedroom) dwelling units. In March, 2000, it was
extensively damaged by fire. All residents were relocated to other
affordable units in accordance with Lansing Housing Commission (LHC)
relocation guidelines. Currently, all housing units are vacant and the LHC
is the building's sole occupant.
The Central Lansing Comprehensive Plan designates this area for
residential use (20+ units/acre). This designation coincides with the use
existing at the time of the Plan's adoption, and with the future land use
map in the 1986 River Island Comprehensive Plan amendment. The
Central Lansing Plan also recommends preserving the urban
design/primarily historic nature of the surrounding area, which includes
architecturally significant churches and residential structures used for
residential, office and mixed uses, and encourages compatible infill
development.
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES February 19, 2002, Page 5
The property abuts Ionia Street, which along with Shiawassee nearby,
was converted to two-way service at the recommendation of the Central
Lansing Plan. Capitol Avenue, which also abuts the property, is a major
arterial (currently, one-way, south bound). Capitol was also
recommended for two-way conversion, and this proposal remains under
study. Shiawassee is a collector street and Ionia and Seymour are
residential streets.
Mr. Rieske stated that ACT-2-2002 will be taken before the Urban
Development Committee on Tuesday, February 26, 2002 at 4:00 p.m.,
316 N. Capitol Avenue, Suite D-1, at which time a recommendation will be
made.
There was a general discussion about the property being used for parking
and also the proposal of the Lansing Housing Commission to sell the
property.
Chuck Calati, resident of 313 Seymour, stated he and his wife moved to
this address two and a half years ago because they liked the urban
environment. Since they moved to Seymour Street, the Roosevelt office
building, which was located kitty corner from their home, had been
demolished. Mr. Calati mentioned that the Diocese of Grand Rapids
demolished a single-family home next door and attempted to develop the
property as a parking lot. Because the Diocese would not comply with the
setback requirements, the request was blocked. He stated that the
building across the street was occupied by senior citizens and felt this
provided a great service to the community. He is concerned about the
property being developed as a parking lot and stated that once developed
as a parking lot, it would become permanent. He feels there are better
uses for the development of the property and stated that turning urban
spaces into parking lots has no bearing on the City's goal to have people
live downtown. He commented that putting cars before people seems to
be taking a step backwards. He feels there is no effort being done by the
Lansing Housing Commission to offer the property to another developer
who could renovate and convert the property into market rate apartments
without demolishing the basic structure. He is not sure how much
damage was done by the fire but feels the Fire Department, being a few
blocks away, managed to save the main structure. He feels the idea of
purchasing the property, demolishing the structure and converting the
property to a parking lot is premature. He feels the City may not have
explored all the options for development of the property. He stated that if
the property is no longer suitable for senior housing, it may better serve
the community as transitional housing for single people or provide
opportunities for homeless people to have permanent housing. He hopes
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES February 19, 2002, Page 6
the Planning Board will consider other alternatives for the development of
the property.
Referred to the next Urban Development Committee meeting, Tuesday,
March 26, 2002 at 316 N. Capitol Avenue.
5. COMMENTS FROM THE AUDIENCE
Jim Brazier of the Lansing Pulse, located on Turner Street, stated that he is
looking for the Capitol Improvements Plan, Charter 7-109 that the City is
supposed to review annually. He quoted: "The capital improvements plan shall
be prepared by the Planning Department is accordance with applicable State
law, as Municipal Planning Act and Uniform Budgeting Act." He continued with
"The Planning Board, through the Planning Department and other City
departments, agencies and boards, shall annually review and submit to the
Mayor and City Council a capital improvements plan for the ensuing six (6)
years." The last time he found the Capitol Improvements Plan in City Council
proceedings was in 1988. He questioned the Board to see if the reviews had
been done. He commented that some of the Board Members may have served
for several years and was wondering where he could find these reviews.
Mr. Rieske commented that the public hearing was held on November 20, 2001
and the Capital Improvements scheduling had been moved to the Budget Office
when the Planning Office staff had been reduced. Since that time, the Planning
Office hasn't resumed that role.
There was a general discussion between Mr. Rieske and Mr. Brazier about the
Capital Improvements Plan hearing and where to obtain information regarding
the Capital Improvements Plan.
6. RECESS was taken by the Board.
During the recess, the Board dissolved into the Committee of the Whole. Ms.
Foster made the motion; seconded by Ms. Cordill. On a voice vote, the motion
carried (6-0).
3a. Committee of the Whole
1. Z-16-2001, NW Corner of Aurelius and Miller Road,
"A" Residential & "DM-3" Residential to "D-1"
Professional Office District
This is a request by Martin Property Development to rezone
a parcel of land located northwest of the intersection of
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES February 19, 2002, Page 7
Miller Rd. and Aurelius Rd. and is more specifically
described as:
A parcel of land in the Southeast 114 of Section 3,
T3N, R2W, Delhi Township, Ingham County,
Michigan, the Boundary of said parcel described as:
thence N89 °35'10"W along the South line of Section
3 a distance of 2261.04 feet; thence N00 `04'27"W
330.00 feet, thence S89 035'10"E parallel with the
said South line 264.00 feet, thence S00 004'27"E
62.99 feet, thence S89 035'10"E parallel with said
South line 1997.38 feet to the East line of Section 3;
thence S00 000'00"W along said East line 267.01 feet
to the point of beginning.
This property is requested to be rezoned from "A"
Residential District and "DM-3" Residential District to "D-1"
Professional Office District.
Mr. Ruge commented that there is a residential property in
the middle of this area. There was a general discussion
between Mr. Ruge and Ms. Stachowiak regarding the type of
buffering that would be required around the proposed
property. There was also a discussion about building height
requirements and types of setbacks for the proposed
property.
Mr. Frederick questioned what City department would be
responsible for handling the issues of dust or contamination
during construction. Ms. Stachowiak commented that the
dust issue would be considered a nuisance and would be
the responsibility and enforcement of the City's Code
Compliance Office. She stated that any environmental
concerns would require Public Service to become involved
as well as the State of Michigan, Department of
Environmental Quality. Ms. Stachowiak commented that
none of the research so far has revealed any signs of
environmental problems.
Ms. Foster questioned the requirements of the Sediment
Erosion Control Plan. Ms. Stachowiak stated that this plan
is a primary requirement of Site Plan Review and that Public
Service reviews the plan.
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES February 19, 2002, Page 8
There was a general discussion about zoning issues in the
"D-1" Professional Office District.
Mr. Ruge questioned the possibility of implementing a
service road in the back of the residential property. Ms.
Stachowiak commented that the survey she presented to the
Board does not display a service road and that the lot
behind the residential property is zoned Light Industrial.
There was a general discussion about ownership of the lot
behind the residential property and also access from the lot
to Miller Road.
Mr. Ruge made a motion, seconded by Mr. Frederick to approve Z-16-2001, NW
Corner of Aurelius and Miller Road, "A" Residential & "DM-3" Residential to "D-1"
Professional Office District.
On a Voice Vote, the motion carried without approval (5-1).
Once the Board completed business, Ms. Patrick made a motion, seconded by Ms.
Foster to arise from the Committee of the Whole. On a voice vote, the motion carried
(6-0).
7. BUSINESS SESSION
A. Ms. Cordill moved; seconded by Ms. Foster to approve the minutes of
February 5, 2002 as written.
On a voice vote, motion carried (6-0), the Minutes of November 6, 2001
were
APPROVED as WRITTEN.
B. Committee Reports
1. ZONING AND ORDINANCE COMMITTEE, Mr. Ruge, Chair
a. LS-17-2001, 5600 Kaynorth Street
This is a request by Alex Boegner to divide a parcel located
at 5600 Kaynorth Street and more particularly described as:
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES February 19, 2002, Page 9
Lot 15, Assessors Plat#58, City of Lansing, Ingham
County, Michigan
into two parcels. An existing house would be located on one
of the parcels. The other parcel would be less than the
minimum width requirements of 70 feet for a corner lot, set
forth in Section 1236.07 (b). In addition, both parcels would
be less than the minimum depth requirement of 100 feet set
forth in Section 1236.07 (c). A variance from the design
requirements of the Subdivision Regulations is, therefore,
requested.
Mr. Ruge stated that the Zoning and Ordinance Committee
met earlier this evening at 6:15 p.m. He gave a brief
overview of LS-17-2001, 5600 Kaynorth Street.
Mr. Ruge stated that the lots, after lot splits, would both be
less than the minimum requirements of the ordinance. He
stated that the surrounding lots were fairly large and that
these two lots would be different in size than those
surrounding it.
PLANNING BOARD ACTION on the motion was as follows:
Mr. Ruge made a motion, seconded by Ms. Foster to recommend denial of LS-17-2001,
5600 Kaynorth Street.
Frederick . . Ave Foster. . . Ave
Patrick. . .Ave Ruge . Ave
Smith. . .Ave Cordill . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Ave
On a Roll call vote, there were: Ayes: 6; Nays: 0; carried; unanimous;
DENIED.
b. Z-21-2001, 2717 Turner Street, "F" Commercial to "C"
Residential District
This is a request by Mike Markey, representing Markey
Associates, to rezone the easterly 139 feet of the property
located at 2717 Turner Street, which is located between
2703 and 2801 Turner Street and more particularly
described as:
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES February 19, 2002, Page 10
Lot 4, Assessors Plat#34, City of Lansing, Ingham
County, Michigan, according to the recorded plat
thereof as recorded in Liber 11 of Plats, page 15,
Ingham County Records
from "F" Commercial to "C" Residential District. The
applicant proposes to build a duplex on the subject property.
PLANNING BOARD ACTION on the motion was as follows:
Mr. Ruge made a motion, seconded by Ms. Foster to recommend approval of
Z-21-2001, 2717 Turner Street, "F" Commercial to "C" Residential District.
Frederick . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ave Foster. . . Ave
Patrick. . .Ave Ruge. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ave
Smith. . .Aye Cordill . .Ave
On a Roll call vote, there were: Ayes: 6; Nays: 0; carried; unanimous;
APPROVED.
C. Z-1-2002, 400 Block of Dorrance Place, "H" Light
Industrial District to "A" Residential District
This is a request by Ferris Development, to rezone four
properties on the west side of the street in the 400 block of
Dorrance Place and more particularly described as:
Lot 1, 2, 3 and 4 of Block 3, Assessor's Plat No. 7,
City of Lansing, Ingham County Michigan
from "H" Light Industrial District to "DM-3" Residential
District. The applicant is proposing to construct four, three-
bedroom, single family homes with detached garages.
Staff recommends denial of the original request to rezone
the four lots in the 400 block of Dorrance Place on the west
side of the street to the "DM-3" Residential District.
However, staff recommends approval of rezoning the
property to the "A" Residential District.
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES February 19, 2002, Page 11
PLANNING BOARD ACTION on the motion was as follows:
Mr. Ruge made a motion, seconded by Ms. Foster to recommend approval of Z-1-2002,
400 Block of Dorrance Place, "H" Light Industrial District to "A" Residential
District.
Frederick . . . . . . . . . . .. . Ave Foster. . . Ave
Patrick. . .Ave Ruge. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ave
Smith. . .Ave Cordill . .Ave
On a Roll call vote, there were: Ayes: 6; Nays: 0; carried; unanimous;
APPROVED.
Next meeting, Wednesday, March 13, 2002 at 4:00 p.m.
316 N. Capitol Ave., Department Conference Room.
2. URBAN DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE, Ms. Patrick, Chair
Next meeting, Tuesday, February 26, 2002, at 4:00 p.m.
316 N. Capitol Ave., Department Conference Room.
3b. Committee of the Whole
1. Z-16-2001, NW Corner of Aurelius and Miller Road,
"A" Residential & "DM-3" Residential to "D-1"
Professional Office District
This is a request by Martin Property Development to rezone
a parcel of land located northwest of the intersection of
Miller Rd. and Aurelius Rd. and more specifically described
as:
A parcel of land in the Southeast 114 of Section 3,
T3N, R2W, Delhi Township, Ingham County,
Michigan, the Boundary of said parcel described as:
thence N89 035'10"W along the South line of Section
3 a distance of 2261.04 feet, thence N00 904'27"W
330.00 feet, thence S89 035'10"E parallel with the
said South line 264.00 feet, thence S00 004'27"E
62.99 feet; thence S89 035'10"E parallel with said
South line 1997.38 feet to the East line of Section 3;
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES February 19, 2002, Page 12
thence S00 °00'00"W along said East line 267.01 feet
to the point of beginning.
This property is requested to be rezoned from "A"
Residential District and "DM-3" Residential District to "D-1"
Professional Office District.
Mr. Smith commented that the area would be in jeopardy of
slipping into more strip-type development and in his view,
this is not what the area needs.
PLANNING BOARD ACTION on the motion was as follows:
Mr. Smith made a motion, seconded by Ms. Foster to approve Z-16-2001, NW Corner
of Aurelius and Miller Road, "A" Residential & "DM-3" Residential to "D-1"
Professional Office District.
Frederick . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ave Foster. . _ . Ave
Patrick. . .Ave Ruge. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ave
Cordill. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Ave Smith. . .Nay
On a Roll call vote, there were: Ayes: 5; Nays: 1; carried; but without recommendation
from the Planning Board.
Mr. Rieske stated that an affirmative recommendation on a rezoning case requires six
votes.
CARRIED w/o RECOMMENDATION.
4. Executive Committee - none
C. REPORT FROM PLANNING MANAGER - None.
D. PENDING ITEMS (future action required)
1. Zoninq and Ordinance Committee
a. - urner St.,"H"Light Industrial District to"G-1" Business District
((Tabled February 11 1998))
b. Z-5-98,401-407 E. brand River,"F"Commercial District to"G-1" Business
District(Tabled June 10, 1998)
C. Z-8-2000, 3901 S. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.,"F"Commercial to"H"Light
Industrial District(Tabled June 14, 2000)
d. Z-15-2000, 301 W. Lenawee Street, Professional Office to"G-1" Business
District(Tabled January 17,2001
e. P-1-2001,Tentative Preliminary Plat,Wexford Woods (Tabled June 13, May 9,
2001)
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES February 19, 2002, Page 13
f. PRD-2-01,"Crystal Woods", Planned Residential Neighborhood (Tabled August
15, 2001
g. Z-8-01, illoughby Rd.,"A"Residential to"DM-1"Residential,"D-1"Professional
Office and"C"Residential(Tabled October 10,2001
h. SLU-6-01,517-519 E. Grand River Ave., Church in"F-1"Commercial District
(Tabled November 14,2001)
i. SLU-8-01,3000 W. Miller Road,Additional Parking for an Existing Church
(Tabled November 14,2001)
2. Urban Development Committee
a. Act-9-2000,201 E. Grand River Avenue, Proj. Sign Over ROW (Tabled June 27,
2000)
b. Act-27-01, 313 E. Grand River Ave. (Comfort Station), Market for Sale(Tabled
November 27, 2001)
C. Discussion of Comprehensive Planning Process.
3. Committee of the Whole
4. Planning Board
8. NEW BUSINESS - None.
9. COMMENTS FROM CHAIRPERSON - None.
Mr. Frederick gave a heartfelt thanks for his excused absence because of a
broken ankle.
10. COMMENTS FROM BOARD MEMBERS
Ms. Cordill stated that her baby is due the end of March and that she hopes to
attend the March 5, 2002 Planning Board meeting.
Ms. Foster stated that she has not received a parking pass for the garage and
was wondering when the pass would be available.
There was a general discussion and clarification on which committee Mr. Smith
and Ms. Foster are members. Ms. Foster stated that the Urban Development
Committee meeting minutes were wrong in listing her in attendance at the last
meeting.
There was a general discussion regarding the status of Mr. Harry Hepler's
development of the property located on May Street, north of the Lansing Police
Department Precinct.
Ms. Patrick commented on the creative development of the D.O.C. building on
the Corner of Jolly and Cedar Streets. She stated that the building was
demolished and a new building was constructed further south in the parking lot.
She has heard a few complaints about the sight of the building but feels the new
location will help improve visibility at that intersection. She also commented on
how smooth the renovations have been for the strip mall with very few
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES February 19, 2002, Page 14
disruptions to the intersection. She felt it was a positive influence and
encouraged the other Board members to view the area.
11. BOARD MEMBER CODE ENFORCEMENT NOTIFICATION REPORTS - None.
12. ADJOURNMENT - Meeting was adjourned at 8:27 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
James A. Ruff, Secretary, Planning Board
PB Minutes.021902.wpd
Approved as written 2-19-02 Draft to Clerk February 7,2002
Approved February 19,2002
To Clerk February 21,2002
Minutes of the Regular Meeting
LANSING PLANNING BOARD
7:00 p.m., Tenth Floor, Council Chambers
Lansing City Hall
Tuesday, February 5, 2002
1. OPENING SESSION
The meeting was called to order at 7:00 p.m. by Ms. Keene.
It was moved by Ms. Patrick, supported by Ms. Foster to appoint Ms. Keene as
Acting Chair for the evening. On a Voice Vote, the motion carried unanimously
(4-0).
A. Roll call. Present: Foster, Keene, Patrick, Cordill.
B. Staff Attending: Stachowiak, Rieske.
C. Excused absence: Mr. Frederick, Mr. Ruge, Mr. Smith.
It was moved by Ms. Foster, supported by Ms. Cordill to approve the excused
absence requests for Mr. Frederick, Mr. Ruge and Mr. Smith. On a Voice Vote,
the motion carried unanimously (4-0).
2. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
It was moved by Ms. Foster, supported by Ms. Cordill to approve the agenda.
On a Voice Vote, the motion carried unanimously (4-0).
3. COMMUNICATIONS
A. A memo from Mr. Rieske regarding ACT-30-2001, 4901 S. Waverly Road,
[PPN 3301-01-31-351-041 (Cranbrook Apts.,)], Vacate Bower Drain
Easement
4. PUBLIC HEARINGS
A. Z-21-2001, 2717 Turner Street, "F" Commercial to "C" Residential
District
This is a request by Mike Markey, representing Markey Associates, to
rezone the easterly 139 feet of the property located at 2717 Turner Street,
which is located between 2703 and 2801 Turner Street and more
particularly described as:
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES February 5, 2002, Page 2
Lot 4, Assessors Plat #34, City of Lansing, Ingham County,
Michigan, according to the recorded plat thereof as recorded in
Liber 11 of Plats, page 15, Ingham County Records
from "F" Commercial to "C" Residential District. The applicant proposes to
build a duplex on the subject property.
Sue Stachowiak gave a brief overview.
Mike Markey, resident of 1400 Silverwood, Okemos, represented
Kruger Properties. He stated that in the "F" Commercial District the
company could build a commercial structure with residential units
attached or adjacent to the "F" Commercial structure. These units would
still be within the zoning codes and meet all the code requirements. He
added that this is a down zoning from the current commercial use. He
also stated that this property would likely be renter occupied.
Referred to the Zoning and Ordinance Committee meeting that will be
held on Wednesday, February 13, 2002.
B. Z-1-2002, 400 Block of Dorrance Place, "H" Light Industrial District
to "DM-3" Residential District
This is a request by Ferris Development, to rezone four properties on the
west side of the street in the 400 block of Dorrance Place and more
particularly described as:
Lot 1, 2, 3 and 4 of Block 3, Assessor's Plat No. 7, City of Lansing,
Ingham County Michigan
from "H" Light Industrial District to "A" Residential District. The applicant
is proposing to construct four, three-bedroom, single family homes with
detached garages.
Sue Stachowiak gave a brief overview. The original request was for
"DM-3" but both the applicant and staff agree that "A" Residential would
suit the proposed use.
There was a general discussion regarding residential zoning.
Ron Van Zee, of Ferris Development, 820 N. Capitol, clarified that the
property will be two story, three-bedroom, single family, owner occupied
properties. These will not be rental properties. Ferris Development is
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES February 5, 2002, Page 3
proposing to build a single car, detached garage on each lot with hard
surface parking to meet zoning requirements. He stated that Ferris
Development acquired the properties 6-7 months ago and had
demolished all the existing structures. He brought pictures of the previous
structures which were all multiple family, with some 4-5 units on one lot.
He stated that Ferris Development is trying to downsize the use of
properties in the area to make the area less dense, improve the
properties, and to bring up the property values in the area.
There was a general discussion regarding other properties that Ferris
Development in currently developing.
Referred to the Zoning and Ordinance Committee meeting that will be
held on Wednesday, February 13, 2002.
C. LS-17-2001, 5600 Kaynorth Street
This is a request by Alex Boegner to divide a parcel located at 5600
Kaynorth Street and more particularly described as:
Lot 15, Assessors Plat#58, City of Lansing, Ingham County,
Michigan
into two parcels. An existing house would be located on one of the
parcels. The other parcel would be less than the minimum width
requirements of 70 feet for a corner lot, set forth in Section 1236.07 (b).
In addition, both parcels would be less than the minimum depth
requirement of 100 feet set forth in Section 1236.07 (c). A variance from
the design requirements of the Subdivision Regulations is, therefore,
requested.
Sue Stachowiak gave a brief overview.
Mark Gunn, resident of 701 Snider, East Lansing, stated he is
representing Alex Boegner and that Mr. Boegner is the owner of the
property. He stated that Mr. Boegner purchased 5600 Kaynorth as HUD
property and at that time the building was heavily damaged on the inside.
Mr. Boegner is currently handling repairs. He also stated that Mr.
Boenger's intentions are to sell the property as owner occupied and if the
lot split occurs, sell this property also as owner occupied. Mr. Gunn has
looked at the setbacks. He stated that the surrounding properties are very
close to the street. The only property that is set back from the street is
5600 Kaynorth.
Draft to Clerk March 21,2002
Approved 2002
To Clerk 2002
Minutes of the Regular Meeting
LANSING PLANNING BOARD
7:00 p.m., Tenth Floor, Council Chambers
Lansing City Hall
Tuesday, March 19, 2002
1. OPENING SESSION
The meeting was called to order at 7:08 p.m. by Chairman Frederick.
A. Roll call. Present: Frederick, Keene, Patrick, Smith, Ruge.
B. Staff Attending: Ruff.
C. Excused absence: Ms. Foster. (Ms. Cordill had been given an excused
absence from the March 5, 2002 meeting.)
It was moved by Ms. Keene, supported by Mr. Smith to approve the excused
absence request for Ms. Foster. On a voice vote, the motion carried
unanimously (5-0).
2. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
It was moved by Ms. Keene, supported by Mr. Smith to approve an amendment
to the agenda to include the 2001 Planning Board Evaluation Summary as new
business. On a voice vote, the motion carried unanimously (5-0).
3. COMMUNICATIONS - None.
4. PUBLIC HEARINGS - None.
5. COMMENTS FROM THE AUDIENCE - None.
6. RECESS was not taken by the board.
7. BUSINESS SESSION
A. Mr. Smith moved; seconded by Ms. Keene to approve the minutes of
March 5, 2002 without corrections. On a voice vote, motion carried (5-0),
the minutes of March 5, 2002 were
APPROVED.
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES March 19, 2002, Page 2
B. Committee Reports
1. ZONING AND ORDINANCE COMMITTEE, Mr. Ruge, Chair
a. Z-2-2002, 1215 E. Michigan Avenue, "D-1" Professional
Office, "F" & "17-1" Commercial Districts to "DM-4"
Residential District
This is a request by Ira Ginsburg representing Sparrow
Health Systems, 1215 E. Michigan Ave. to rezone property
near the northeast corner of East Michigan and
Pennsylvania Ave, and more particularly described as:
Lots 7, 8, 9, 10 and 11 Block 1, Assessor's Plat No. 1,
City of Lansing, Ingham County Michigan
from "D-1" Professional Office, "F" &"F-1" Commercial
Districts to "DM-4" Residential District. The purpose of the
rezoning is to make the zoning consistent with the
surrounding "DM-4" Residential Zoning District of the
remainder of the parcel (Sparrow Health Systems).
Mr. Ruge stated that Mr. Frederick had asked the Planning
staff to give careful consideration to traffic flow during the
site plan review process for the parking ramp. The last
parking ramp constructed by Sparrow Hospital at the
professional building has created an unfavorable traffic
situation in the area. The City should restrict exiting onto
Pennsylvania and Michigan Avenues possibly by prohibiting
left turns. He also stated that Ms. Foster made a
recommendation that the parking ramp should be set back
far enough so that it will allow for green space in order to
fulfill the intent of the Master Plan for creating a campus
atmosphere. Mr. Ruge expressed his concern about the
traffic on Jerome Street.
Mr. Ruff stated that since this is a rezoning action, it will
need to be transmitted with the report from the Board but
without an official recommendation.
PLANNING BOARD ACTION on the motion was as follows:
Mr. Ruge made a motion, seconded by Ms. Keene to recommend approval of Z-2-2002,
1215 E. Michigan Avenue, "D-1" Professional Office, "F" & "F-1" Commercial
Districts to "DM-4" Residential District.
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES March 19, 2002, Page 3
Frederick . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ave Keene. . . Ave
Patrick. . .Ave Ruge. . . Aye
Smith. . .Ave
On a Roll call vote, there were: Ayes: 5; Nays: 0; carried; unanimous;
APPROVED w/o RECOMMENDATION.
b. Z-3-2002, 5857 S. ML King Jr. Blvd., "A" Residential
District to "F" Commercial District
This is a request by Maguire Associates and Kandy Thomas
to rezone the northwest 30' x 143' of 5857 S. ML King from
"A" Residential to "F" Commercial District. The remainder of
the property is proposed to remain "A" Residential and will
serve as a landscaped buffer between the commercial area
and the adjacent residential properties.
The subject property is currently zoned "A" Residential and
contains a single family residence. If the rezoning is
approved, the applicant intends to demolish the existing
home. The applicant further intends to construct an addition
to the back of the existing Bay Pioneer convenience store
building located directly to the north at 5843 S. ML King. If
the rezoning is not approved, the addition could not be
constructed as it would not comply with side yard setback
and landscaping requirements. The future plans for this
property also include an expansion of the parking area and
relocating the south driveway to the Bay Pioneer property
further to the south as depicted on the attached plan. The
application states that there are no immediate plans to make
these expansions.
Ms. Patrick stated she was unable to attended the
Committee meeting and would like to hear the discussion of
why the Committee decided the rezoning of this property in
an area that is still quite residential was appropriate. Mr.
Ruge commented that the property was on Martin Luther
King Blvd. The site is quite compact and it would only take a
few vehicles on the property of the gas station to cause
difficulties in movement. He also stated that a good portion
of the property would be used as a buffer between the
surrounding residential properties. There was a general
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES March 19, 2002, Page 4
discussion regarding the zoning of the property and whether
the buffering would be a permanent situation.
There was a general discussion regarding the parking
situation and possible relocation of the building on the
property.
Mr. Ruff stated that since this is a rezoning action, it will
need to be transmitted with the report from the Board but
without an official recommendation.
PLANNING BOARD ACTION on the motion was as follows:
Mr. Ruge made a motion, seconded by Ms. Keene to recommend approval of Z-3-2002,
5857 S. ML King Jr. Blvd., "A" Residential District to "F" Commercial District .
Frederick . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ave Keene. . . Ave
Patrick. . .Ave Ruge. . . Aye
Smith. . .Ave
On a Roll call vote, there were: Ayes: 5; Nays: 0; carried; unanimous;
APPROVED w/o RECOMMENDATION.
C. SLU-1-2002, 1400 Block, W. Jolly Road, Special Land
Use Permit - New Church
This is a request by Timothy Howell of Swanson Design
Studios on behalf of Prince of Peace Baptist Church for a
Special Land Use permit to construct a new, 18,474 square
foot church with related site improvements on the subject
property in the 1400 Block of W. Jolly Road. Churches are
permitted in the "A" Residential District with a Special Land
Use permit.
Mr. Ruge stated that there were questions about the location
of water detention ponds and that the company had to meet
with Public Service to review options.
Mr. Ruge also stated that SLU-1-2002 has been tabled at
this time.
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES March 19, 2002, Page 5
Mr. Ruff stated he spoke directly with the City Engineer and
asked that they find a resolution because the easement is a
significant easement over the property.
Mr. Ruge stated that the Committee was concerned about
the engineered hole and that no matter how much
engineering was put into it, these engineered holes are not
very attractive. He is in favor of the engineered hole taking
on a more attractive wetland approach.
d. Amendments to the Planning and Zoning Codes
Mr. Ruge stated the Committee reviewed accessory
structures, front yard setbacks and also architectural
compatibility.
e. Z-8-2001, Willoughby Road, "A" Residential to "DM-1"
Residential, "D-1" Professional Office and "C"
Residential
Mr. Ruff stated that since this is a rezoning action, it will
need to be transmitted with the report from the Board but
without an official recommendation.
PLANNING BOARD ACTION on the motion was as follows:
Mr. Ruge made a motion, seconded by Ms. Keene to accept the withdrawal of
Z-8-2001, Willoughby Road, "A" Residential to "DM-1" Residential, "D-1"
Professional Office and "C" Residential.
Frederick . . Ave Keene. . . Ave
Patrick. . .Ave Ruge. . . Aye
Smith. .Ave
On a Roll call vote, there were: Ayes: 5; Nays: 0; carried; unanimous;
WITHDRAWN w/o RECOMMENDATION.
Next meeting, Wednesday, April 10, 2002 at 4:00 p.m.
316 N. Capitol Ave., Department Conference Room.
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES March 19, 2002, Page 6
2. URBAN DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE, Ms. Patrick, Chair
Next meeting, Tuesday, March 26, 2002, at 4:00 p.m.
316 N. Capitol Ave., Department Conference Room.
3. Committee of the Whole - None.
4. Executive Committee - None.
C. REPORT FROM PLANNING MANAGER
1. Zoning Amendments (Front Yard/Accessory Structure).
2. Wolverine Pipeline Resolution (Public Hearing).
3. Senior Planner Vacancy Filled.
4. Planning Board Vacancy.
5. Act 285 - Michigan Department of Transportation (right of way) vs.
City of Lansing (Constitutional issue).
D. PENDING ITEMS (future action required)
1. Zoning and Ordinance Committee
a. Z-1-96, 1223 N. I urner St.,"H" Light Industrial District to"G-1" Business District
Tabled February 11 1998
b. -5-98,401-407 E. Grand fiver,"F"Commercial District to"G-1" Business
District(Tabled June 10, 1998)
C. Z-8-2000, 3901 S. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.,"F"Commercial to"H"Light
Industrial District(Tabled June 14,2000)
d. Z-15-2000, 301 W. Lenawee Street, Professional Office to"G-1" Business
District(Tabled January 17,2001)
e. P-1-2001,Tentative Preliminary Plat,Wexford Woods (Tabled June 13, May 9,
2001)
f. PRD-2-01,"Crystal Woods", Planned Residential Neighborhood (Tabled August
15, 2001)
g. Z-8-01,Willoughby Rd., "A" Residential to"DM-1" Residential,"D-1" Professional
Office and"C"Residential (Tabled October 10, 2001
h. SLU-6-01, 517-519 E. Grand River Ave., Church in"F-1"Commercial District
(Tabled November 14,2001)
2. Urban Development Committee
a. Act-9-2000, 201 E. Grand River Avenue, Proj.Sign Over ROW (Tabled June 27,
2000)
b. Act-27-01, 313 E. Grand River Ave. (Comfort Station), Market for Sale (Tabled
November 27,2001)
C. Act-2-02, Lansing Housing Commission Property, 310 Seymour,Acquisition for
public purposes (Tabled February 26, 2002)
3. Committee of the Whole
4. Planning Board
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES March 19, 2002, Page 7
8. NEW BUSINESS
2001 Planning Board Evaluation Summary - Mr. Ruff requested acceptance of
the summary to include the Planning Office recommendations.
It was moved by Mr. Ruge, supported by Ms. Patrick to accept the 2001 Planning
Board Evaluation Summary and forward a copy to the City Clerk's Office. On a
voice vote, the motion carried unanimously (5-0).
9. COMMENTS FROM CHAIRPERSON - None.
10. COMMENTS FROM BOARD MEMBERS
Mr. Smith invited the Board to attend his art display on March 24, 2002.
11. BOARD MEMBER CODE ENFORCEMENT NOTIFICATION REPORTS
Mr. Ruge stated that the Michigan Ave. Church has new pavement but still needs
landscaping. Mr. Ruff stated the Planning Office should be receiving a copy of
the site plan review and that he would look into the matter.
Mr. Ruge questioned if the Sign Inspector drives down Kalamazoo Street. There
are four party stores located along Kalamazoo whose signs are in disrepair.
Mr. Ruge stated the sign shop on the corner of Michigan Ave. and Marshall
Street still have two large temporary signs attached to the side of their building.
Mr. Ruff stated the signs are currently being repaired and will look into the
matter.
12. ADJOURNMENT - Meeting was adjourned at 7:55 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
James A. Ruff, Secretary, Planning Board
PB Minutes.031902.wpd
.Ijproved as written 3-19-02 Draft to Clerk March 7,2002
Approved March 19,2002
To Clerk March 20,2002
Minutes of the Regular Meeting
LANSING PLANNING BOARD
7:00 p.m., Tenth Floor, Council Chambers
Lansing City Hall
Tuesday, March 5, 2002
1. OPENING SESSION
The meeting was called to order at 7:03 p.m. by Chairman Frederick.
A. Roll call. Present: Frederick, Foster, Cordill, Keene, Patrick, Smith,
Ruge.
B. Staff Attending: Ruff, Stachowiak, Rieske, Stanich.
C. Excused absence: None.
2. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
It was moved by Ms. Keene, supported by Mr. Smith to approve the agenda.
On a voice vote, the motion carried unanimously (7-0).
3. COMMUNICATIONS
A. Mr. Ruff presented the Board members with a copy of the 2001 Planning
Board Evaluation Summary.
B. A letter from Ms. Sharon Yerian, Neighborhood Watch Coordinator for
Briarfield Drive.
4. PUBLIC HEARINGS
A. Z-2-2002, 1215 E. Michigan Avenue, "D-1" Professional Office, "F" &
"F-1" Commercial Districts to "DM-4" Residential District
This is a request by Ira Ginsburg representing Sparrow Health Systems,
1215 E. Michigan Ave. to rezone property near the northeast corner of
East Michigan and Pennsylvania Ave, and more particularly described
as:
Lots 7, 8, 9, 10 and 11 Block 1, Assessor's Plat No. 1, City of
Lansing, Ingham County Michigan
from "D-1" Professional Office, "F" &"F-1" Commercial Districts to "DM-4"
Residential District. The purpose of the rezoning is to make the zoning
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES March 5, 2002, Page 2
consistent with the surrounding "DM-4" Residential Zoning District of the
remainder of the parcel (Sparrow Health Systems).
Sue Stachowiak gave a brief overview.
Ms. Patrick stated that the Master Plan indicates this area was intended
for parks or open space and she questioned the year the designation was
done. There was a general discussion about the designation for this area.
There was also a general discussion about parking and the zoning
requirements to accommodate a parking facility.
John West, representing Sparrow Health Systems, stated Sparrow
Health Systems had purchased the five lots on the west end of the
existing Sparrow Campus and that these lots had been zoned differently.
He stated that Sparrow had requested the zoning be changed to be
consistent with the surrounding properties. He also stated that Sparrow's
intentions are to develop a parking structure in this area but the plans
have not been developed.
Seeing no one else wishing to speak on this matter, Mr. Frederick referred
Z-2-2002 to the Zoning and Ordinance Committee.
B. Z-3-2002, 5857 S. ML King Jr. Blvd., "A" Residential District to "F"
Commercial District
This is a request by Maguire Associates and Kandy Thomas to rezone the
northwest 30' x 143' of 5857 S. ML King from "A" Residential to "F"
Commercial District. The remainder of the property is proposed to remain
"A" Residential and will serve as a landscaped buffer between the
commercial area and the adjacent residential properties.
The subject property is currently zoned "A" Residential and contains a
single family residence. If the rezoning is approved, the applicant intends
to demolish the existing home. The applicant further intends to construct
an addition to the back of the existing Bay Pioneer convenience store
building located directly to the north at 5843 S. ML King. If the rezoning is
not approved, the addition could not be constructed as it would not comply
with side yard setback and landscaping requirements. The future plans
for this property also include an expansion of the parking area and
relocating the south driveway to the Bay Pioneer property further to the
south as depicted on the attached plan. The application states that there
are no immediate plans to make these expansions.
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES March 5, 2002, Page 3
Sue Stachowiak gave a brief overview.
Mr. Ruge stated that the City Assessor's Office indicated a difference in
ownership of the property. Ms. Stachowiak explained that the co-
applicant was also the owner of the property.
There was a general discussion about buffering.
Joe Maguire, of Maguire Associates, 1350 E. Lake Lansing, stated that
if the zoning is approved, the purchase of the property will be
consummated. He stated that there are no short term goals for expansion
of the property and that the company economically cannot do
improvements at this time. However, the company will demolish the
existing house on the property to allow for future development. He stated
that Ms. Thomas inherited the property and that the purchase of the
property will allow her to move on. He also stated that an expansion
would provide more adequate parking for the customers.
Seeing no one else wishing to speak on this matter, Mr. Frederick referred
Z-3-2002 to the Zoning and Ordinance Committee.
C. SLU-1-2002, 1400 Block, W. Jolly Road, Special Land Use Permit -
New Church
This is a request by Timothy Howell of Swanson Design Studios on behalf
of Prince of Peace Baptist Church for a Special Land Use permit to
construct a new, 18,474 square foot church with related site
improvements on the subject property in the 1400 Block of W. Jolly Road.
Churches are permitted in the "A" Residential District with a Special Land
Use permit.
There are 137 parking spaces shown on the site plan. The parking
requirement for churches is one space for every three seats or six linear
feet of pew in the main unit of worship. Therefore, the occupancy of the
building will be limited to 411 people that can attend church services at
any one time. The application states that the church will seat 400 people.
Sue Stachowiak gave a brief overview. She stated that, as of last night,
City Council had approved of the rezoning to "A" Residential District.
Timothy Howell, of Swanson Design Studios, 831 N. Washington,
stated that the site plan does not show landscaping or buffering. There
was a general discussion about using trees for buffering.
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES March 5, 2002, Page 4
Ms. Patrick questioned the hours of operation for the church. Pastor
Carroll Carter stated the hours would be Sunday, 9:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.,
and Wednesday evening, 7:00 - 8:30 p.m. There was a general
discussion about the hours fluctuating based on different activities (ie.
weddings, choir practice, etc.).
There was a discussion about the church having a daycare center or
possibly other after school activities. Pastor Carter stated that the church
would have social activities especially for senior citizens.
There was a general discussion about the current size of the congregation
and the projected growth of the church. Pastor Carter stated that there
are 160 people currently in attendance and that he anticipates 375 people
at the new facility. He stated that there would be inadequate parking for
numbers beyond that and he does not want to inconvenience the visitors.
There was a general discussion about feedback from the neighborhood.
Pastor Carter had addressed issues with the neighborhood and City
Council in November 2001.
Sharon Yerian, resident of 1321 S. Briarfield, stated that her letter
addresses the neighborhood issues. Since the removal of the trees, the
biggest concerns have been the amount of pedestrian traffic through the
back yards and the noise from the street. She stated that a 10' privacy
fence would prevent people from cutting through the back yards and help
eliminate the vehicle noise. She also stated that the land is still a mess
and has not been properly cleared.
Rosemarie Bell, resident of 1331 S. Briarfield, stated that with the
wooded area her house had been vandalized and that there is no
protection for her home.
Dan Dubois, resident of 1301 S. Briarfield, stated that he has been a
resident for 45 years and that he does not have a problem with the
church. His concern is the noise from the street. He stated that the 6'
privacy fence would be a little short and that the fence would need to be
higher and a little more dense. He also stated that drainage of the
property would need to be considered to ensure that it is done properly.
He also stated that he would like to see a nice building in the
neighborhood.
Herman Lartigue, resident of 2015 Cheltingham, stated that he will be
assisting Pastor Carter during the construction of the church and that
some of the residents around the property are glad the woods are gone.
It has helped clean up the area and reduce the crime. He stated that a
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES March 5, 2002, Page 5
church will enhance the area. Once the church is developed, security
cameras will be installed and functioning 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
He also stated that the property still had tree trunks that had not been
removed and that the company contracted to do the job had not
completed all the work. The church paid the company $22,000 and is
currently in litigation. He stated that the church intends to send a copy of
the site plan to all the neighbors. He expressed concern with the
maintenance of a 10' privacy fence and recommended a 2' berm with a 6'
privacy fence to be built on the north end of the property.
Pastor Carter stated that he would like to see a church built in this area
and that it would enhance the neighborhood.
Seeing no one else wishing to speak on this matter, Mr. Frederick referred
SLU-1-2002 to the Zoning and Ordinance Committee.
5. COMMENTS FROM THE AUDIENCE - None.
6. RECESS was taken by the Board.
During the recess, the Urban Development Committee met to discuss
ACT-4-2002 and ACT-5-2002.
7. BUSINESS SESSION
A. Ms. Cordill moved; seconded by Ms. Foster to approve the minutes of
February 19, 2002 with corrections.
On a voice vote, motion carried (7-0), the minutes of February 19, 2002
were
APPROVED with CORRECTIONS.
B. Committee Reports
1. ZONING AND ORDINANCE COMMITTEE Mr. Ruge, Chair
Next meeting, Wednesday, March 13, 2002 at 4:00 p.m.
316 N. Capitol Ave., Department Conference Room.
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES March 5, 2002, Page 6
2. URBAN DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE, Ms. Patrick, Chair
Ms. Patrick stated that the Committee met on February 26, 2002
and again tonight at the recess to finalize ACT-4-2002 and
ACT-5-2002.
a. Act-2-02, Lansing Housing Commission Property,
310 Seymour, Acquisition for public purpose
The City Development Office, representing the City,
requests authorization to acquire the property at 310
Seymour Street from the Lansing Housing Commission and
develop it for public use. The acquisition will result in the
removal of the fire damaged structure, most of which is
vacant, and allow the City to develop and utilize the lot for
public purposes in conjunction with the City owned property
to the north.
Ms. Patrick stated that ACT-2-2002 has been Tabled in
Committee at this time to allow the Planning Department to
bring forth additional information on how the property may
be transferred.
b. Act-4-2002, SW Corner of New York & Lake Lansing
Road, Easement for corner modifications
The City of Lansing's Public Service Department is
requesting additional property through a fee simple
acquisition be approved for the northeast portion of property
at 1024 Lake Lansing Road to allow for an improved turning
radius onto New York Avenue. The new curb has already
been put in at the proposed 30 foot radius. The enlarged
intersection brings the curb closer to the existing commercial
building.
Lake Lansing Road has recently been widened and
improved. A larger turning radius is now needed for the
subject intersection.
Lake Lansing Road is expected to carry significantly higher
volumes of traffic with the widening of the street and the
development of a new regional shopping mail further to the
east just west of U.S. 127. Traffic volumes are expected to
increase from approximately 24,000 ADT to an estimated
40,000 ADT. Approximately 10-11% of the increased traffic
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES March 5, 2002, Page 7
is expected to travel along Lake Lansing Road west of Wood
Street.
Staff recommends approval of Act-4-2002 to enlarge the
intersection at Lake Lansing Road and New York Avenue,
which will give a larger turning radius onto New York
Avenue.
The Committee found, based on its review of the location,
character and extent of in Act-4-02 accordance with its Act
285 Review procedures, that
► the subject property is necessary to realign the
turning radius at the intersection and install a 5'
sidewalk,
► the 30' turning radius facilitates turning movements,
and prevents conflicts with oncoming traffic on New
York Avenue,
► the intersection realignment is a necessary part of the
Lake Lansing Road project.
The Urban Development Committee discussed whether or
not an easement would leave the property owner potentially
liable for anything happening on the property. Mr. Rieske
presented a proposal to request acquisition of the property
with a fee simple interest in that portion of the property. The
Committee chose further to amend as a motion so the
property owner could choose either easement or acquisition
rather than taking the liability under easement or no liability
under acquisition.
The amendment was that if the property owner chooses the
easement rather than City acquisition of the piece of
property that enlarges the corner turning radius, the City
shall assume full liability for the property in the easement
area.
There was a general discussion about the turning radius and
the unsafe conditions when the turning vehicles cross the
center line.
PLANNING BOARD ACTION on the motion was as follows:
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES March 5, 2002, Page 8
Ms. Patrick made a motion, seconded by Ms. Keene to recommend approval of
Act-4-2002, SW Corner of New York & Lake Lansing Road, Easement for corner
modifications with the Urban Development Committee recommendation that the
property owner be given the option to choose the easement rather than a fee simple
interest of the piece of property that enlarges the corner turning radius and, if chosen,
the City shall assume full liability for the easement area.
Frederick Ave Foster. Aye
Patrick. .Ave Ruge. Aye
Smith. .Ave Keene .Ave
Cordill. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Ave
On a Roll call vote, there were: Ayes: 7; Nays: 0; carried; unanimous;
APPROVED.
C. Act-5-02, SW Corner Massachusetts & Lake Lansing Rd.
[PPN 3301-01-03-380-001], Acquisition for corner
modifications
The Public Service Department requests authorization to
acquire an easement for the southwest portion of property
at 1144 Lake Lansing Road to allow for an improved turning
radius onto Massachusetts Avenue. The Department is
working on Lake Lansing Road as part of the Combined
Sewer Overflow project.
The enlarged intersection would bring the curb in closer to
this existing residential property, but should not negatively
impact the property, which is fenced in with a 4 foot tall
cyclone fence. The fence may have to be adjusted for the
larger turning radius and for sidewalk improvements along
Lake Lansing Road.
Staff recommends approval of Act-5-02, the acquisition of a
fee simple interest in a portion of the SW corner of the
property at 1144 Lake Lansing Road, for additional right of
way for the intersection at Lake Lansing Road and
Massachusetts Avenue, provided that the Public Service
Department work with the property owner on any necessary
adjustments to the fence on the subject property in
compliance with the Fence Ordinance.
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES March 5, 2002, Page 9
The Committee found, based on its review of the location,
character and extent of in Act-5-02 accordance with its Act
285 Review procedures, that:
► the subject property is necessary to realign the
turning radius at the intersection and install a 5'
sidewalk,
► the proposed 30' turning radius would facilitate
turning movements, and prevent conflicts with
oncoming traffic on Massachusetts Avenue,
► the intersection realignment is a necessary part of the
Lake Lansing Road project.
The amendment was that the property owner may choose
the easement rather than City acquisition of the piece of
property that enlarges the corner turning radius. If chosen,
the City shall assume full liability for the property in the
easement area.
There was a general discussion about the turning radius and
safety factors.
PLANNING BOARD ACTION on the motion was as follows:
Ms. Patrick made a motion, seconded by Ms. Keene to recommend approval of
Act-5-02, SW Corner Massachusetts & Lake Lansing Road, Acquisition for corner
modifications with the further recommendation that the minimum turning radius be
investigated and that if less than 30' will fulfill safety requirements, to use the lesser
turning radius necessary for safety and with the Urban Development Committee
recommendation that the property owner be given the option to choose the easement
rather than fee simple interest of the piece of property that enlarges the corner turning
radius and, if chosen, the City shall assume full liability for the property in the easement
area.
Frederick . . Ave Foster. . . Aye
Patrick. . .Ave Ruge. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Aye
Smith. . .Ave Keene . .Ave
Cordill. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Ave
On a Roll call vote, there were: Ayes: 7; Nays: 0; carried; unanimous;
APPROVED as AMENDED.
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES March 5, 2002, Page 10
Next meeting, Tuesday, March 26, 2002, at 4:00 p.m.
316 N. Capitol Ave., Department Conference Room.
3. Committee of the Whole - None.
4. Executive Committee - None.
C. REPORT FROM PLANNING MANAGER
1. 2001 Planning Board Evaluation Summary.
2. Possible training information for the Planning Board Members.
3. Regional Workshops from the Planning and Zoning News,
January 2002 issue.
4. City Council action on Planning Board Items.
5. Status of Senior Planner Vacancy.
6. Status of Planning Board Vacancy.
D. PENDING ITEMS (future action required)
1. Zoning and Ordinance Committee
a. - - 1223 N. I urner t.,"H" Light Industrial District to"G-1" Business District
b. RTabled February 11, 1998
-98,401-407 E. Grand fiver, "F"Commercial District to"G-1" Business
District(Tabled June 10, 1998)
C. Z-8-2000, 3901 S. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.,"F"Commercial to"H"Light
Industrial District(Tabled June 14,2000)
d. Z-15-2000, 301 W. Lenawee Street, Professional Office to"G-1"Business
District(Tabled January 17, 2001
e. P-1-2001,Tentative Preliminary lat,Wexford Woods(Tabled June 13, May 9,
2001)
f. PRD-2-01,"Crystal Woods", Planned Residential Neighborhood (Tabled August
15,2001
g. Z-8-01, illoughby Rd.,"A" Residential to"DM-1"Residential,"D-1" Professional
Office and"C"Residential (Tabled October 10,2001
h. SLU-6-01, 517-519 E. Grand River Ave., Church in"F-1"Commercial District
(Tabled November 14,2001)
i. SLU-8-01,3000 W. Miller Road,Additional Parking for an Existing Church
(Tabled November 14,2001)
2. Urban Development Committee
a. Act-9-2000,201 E. Grand River Avenue, Proj. Sign Over ROW (Tabled June 27,
2000)
b. Act-27-01,313 E. Grand River Ave. (Comfort Station), Market for Sale (Tabled
November 27,2001)
C. Act-2-02, Lansing Housing Commission Property, 310 Seymour,Acquisition for
public purposes (Tabled February 26, 2002)
3. Committee of the Whole
4. Planning Board
8. NEW BUSINESS - None.
9. COMMENTS FROM CHAIRPERSON - None.
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES March 5, 2002, Page 11
10. COMMENTS FROM BOARD MEMBERS
Ms. Cordill requested an excused absence for the next meeting and for possibly
a few months.
It was moved by Mr. Ruge, supported by Mr. Smith to approve the excused
absence requests for Ms. Cordill. On a voice vote, the motion carried
unanimously (7-0).
Ms. Foster stated that her class was doing a future vision for the City of Lansing,
25 years in the future plus, and it will be on public display April 23, 2002 at the
MSU International Center from 12:00 p.m. to approximately 2:00-3:00 p.m. The
Board members are invited. Mr. Ruff stated that the Planning Office is in the
process of drafting a Professional Services Contract to help offset the cost for
the students and that the students are putting a lot of effort into their work. He
also explained that Visioning is part of the Master Plan process and that this
would help the public gain an idea of what can be done and for them to look at
areas in the City of Lansing differently. He stated that this would help generate
some thoughts and that there would be graphics, CDs, etc. available to review.
Mr. Smith stated that he may need an excused absence for the next meeting.
11. BOARD MEMBER CODE ENFORCEMENT NOTIFICATION REPORTS - None.
12. ADJOURNMENT - Meeting was adjourned at 8:53 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
James A. Ruff, Secretary, Planning Board
PB Minutes.030502.wpd
Draft to Clerk March 7,2002
Approved 2002
To Clerk 2002
Minutes of the Regular Meeting
LANSING PLANNING BOARD
7:00 p.m., Tenth Floor, Council Chambers
Lansing City Hall -
Tuesday, March 5, 2002
1. OPENING SESSION
The meeting was called to order at 7:03 p.m. by Chairman Frederick.
A. Roll call. Present: Frederick, Foster, Cordill, Keene, Patrick, Smith,
Ruge.
B. Staff Attending: Ruff, Stachowiak, Rieske, Stanich.
C. Excused absence: None.
2. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
It was moved by Ms. Keene, supported by Mr. Smith to approve the agenda.
On a voice vote, the motion carried unanimously (7-0).
3. COMMUNICATIONS
A. Mr. Ruff presented the Board members with a copy of the 2001 Planning
Board Evaluation Summary.
B. A letter from Ms. Sharon Yerian, Neighborhood Watch Coordinator for
Briarfield Drive.
4. PUBLIC HEARINGS
A. Z-2-2002, 1215 E. Michigan Avenue, "D-1" Professional Office, "F" &
"F-1" Commercial Districts to "DM-4" Residential District
This is a request by Ira Ginsburg representing Sparrow Health Systems,
1215 E. Michigan Ave. to rezone property near the northeast corner of
East Michigan and Pennsylvania Ave, and more particularly described
as:
Lots 7, 8, 9, 10 and 11 Block 1, Assessor's Plat No. 1, City of
Lansing, Ingham County Michigan
from "D-1" Professional Office, "F" &"F-1" Commercial Districts to "DM-4"
Residential District. The purpose of the rezoning is to make the zoning
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES March 5, 2002, Page 2
consistent with the surrounding "DM-4" Residential Zoning District of the
remainder of the parcel (Sparrow Health Systems).
Sue Stachowiak gave a brief overview.
Ms. Patrick stated that the Master Plan indicates this area was intended
for parks or open space and she questioned the year the designation was
done. There was a general discussion about the designation for this area.
There was also a general discussion about parking and the zoning
requirements to accommodate a parking facility.
John West, representing Sparrow Health Systems, stated Sparrow
Health Systems had purchased the five lots on the west end of the
existing Sparrow Campus and that these lots had been zoned differently.
He stated that Sparrow had requested the zoning be changed to be
consistent with the surrounding properties. He also stated that Sparrow's
intentions are to develop a parking structure in this area but the plans
have not been developed.
B. Z-3-2002, 5857 S. ML King Jr. Blvd., "A" Residential District to "F"
Commercial District
The applicant is proposing to rezone the northwest 30' x 143' of 5857 S.
ML King from "A" Residential to "F" Commercial District. The remainder of
the property is proposed to remain "A" Residential and will serve as a
landscaped buffer between the commercial area and the adjacent
residential properties.
The subject property is currently zoned "A" Residential and contains a
single family residence. If the rezoning is approved, the applicant intends
to demolish the existing home. The applicant further intends to construct
an addition to the back of the existing Bay Pioneer convenience store
building located directly to the north at 5843 S. ML King. If the rezoning is
not approved, the addition could not be constructed as it would not comply
with side yard setback and landscaping requirements. The future plans
for this property also include an expansion of the parking area and
relocating the south driveway to the Bay Pioneer property further to the
south as depicted on the attached plan. The application states that there
are no immediate plans to make these expansions.
Sue Stachowiak gave a brief overview.
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES March 5, 2002, Page 3
Mr. Ruge stated that the City Assessor's Office indicated a difference in
ownership of the property. Ms. Stachowiak explained that the co-
applicant was also the owner of the property.
There was a general discussion about buffering.
Joe Maguire, of Maguire Associates, 1350 E. Lake Lansing, stated that
if the zoning is approved, the purchase of the property will be
consummated. He stated that there are no short term goals for expansion
of the property and that the company economically cannot do
improvements at this time. However, the company will demolish the
existing house on the property to allow for future development. He stated
that Ms. Thomas inherited the property and that the purchase of the
property will allow her to move on. He also stated that an expansion
would provide more adequate parking for the customers.
C. SLU-1-2002, 1400 Block, W. Jolly Road, Special Land Use Permit -
New Church
This is a request by Timothy Howell of Swanson Design Studios on behalf
of Prince of Peace Baptist Church for a Special Land Use permit to
construct a new, 18,474 square foot church with related site
improvements on the subject property in the 1400 Block of W. Jolly Road.
Churches are permitted in the "A" Residential District with a Special Land
Use permit.
There are 137 parking spaces shown on the site plan. The parking
requirement for churches is one space for every three seats or six linear
feet of pew in the main unit of worship. Therefore, the occupancy of the
building will be limited to 411 people that can attend church services at
any one time. The application states that the church will seat 400 people.
Sue Stachowiak gave a brief overview. She stated that, as of last night,
City Council had approved of the rezoning to "A" Residential District.
Timothy Howell, of Swanson Design Studios, 831 N. Washington,
stated that the site plan does not show landscaping or buffering. There
was a general discussion about using trees for buffering.
Ms. Patrick questioned the hours of operation for the church. Pastor
Carroll Carter stated the hours would be Sunday, 9:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.,
and Wednesday evening, 7:00 - 8:30 p.m. There was a general
discussion about the hours fluctuating based on different activities (ie.
weddings, choir practice, etc.).
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES March 5, 2002, Page 4
There was a discussion about the church having a daycare center or
possibly other after school activities. Pastor Carter stated that the church
would have social activities especially for senior citizens.
There was a general discussion about the current size of the congregation
and the projected growth of the church. Pastor Carter stated that there
are 160 people currently in attendance and that he anticipates 375 people
at the new facility. He stated that there is inadequate parking and he does
not want to inconvenience the visitors.
There was a general discussion about feedback from the neighborhood.
Pastor Carter had addressed issues with the neighborhood and City
Council in November 2001.
Sharon Yerian, resident of 1321 S. Briarfield, stated that her letter
addresses the neighborhood issues. Since the removal of the trees, the
biggest concerns have been the amount of pedestrian traffic through the
back yards and the noise from the street. She stated that a 10' privacy
fence would prevent people from cutting through the back yards and help
eliminate the vehicle noise. She also stated that the land is still a mess
and has not been properly cleared.
Rosemarie Bell, resident of 1331 S. Briarfield, stated that with the
wooded area her house had been vandalized and that there is no
protection for her home.
Dan Dubois, resident of 1301 S. Briarfield, stated that he has been a
resident for 45 years and that he does not have a problem with the
church. His concern is the noise from the street. He stated that the 6'
privacy fence would be a little short and that the fence would need to be
higher and a little more dense. He also stated that drainage of the
property would need to be considered to ensure that it is done properly.
He also stated that he would like to see a nice building in the
neighborhood.
Herman Cartigue, resident of 2015 Cheltingham, stated that he will be
assisting Pastor Carter during the construction of the church and that
some of the residents around the property are glad the woods are gone.
It has helped clean up the area and reduce the crime. He stated that a
church will enhance the area. Once the church is developed, security
cameras will be installed and functioning 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
He also stated that the property still had tree trunks that had not been
removed and that the company contracted to do the job had not been
completed all the work. The church paid the company $22,000 and is
currently in litigation. He stated that the church intends to send a copy of
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES March 5, 2002, Page 5
the site plan to all the neighbors. He expressed concern with the
maintenance of a 10' privacy fence and recommended a 2' berm with a 6'
privacy fence to be built on the north end of the property.
Pastor Carter stated that he would like to see a church built in this area
and that it would enhance the neighborhood.
5. COMMENTS FROM THE AUDIENCE - None.
6. RECESS was taken by the Board.
During the recess, the Urban Development Committee met to discuss
ACT-4-2002 and ACT-5-2002.
7. BUSINESS SESSION
A. Ms. Cordill moved; seconded by Ms. Foster to approve the minutes of
February 19, 2002 with corrections.
On a voice vote, motion carried (7-0), the minutes of February 19, 2002
were
APPROVED with CORRECTIONS.
B. Committee Reports
1. ZONING AND ORDINANCE COMMITTEE, Mr. Ruge, Chair
Next meeting, Wednesday, March 13, 2002 at 4:00 p.m.
316 N. Capitol Ave., Department Conference Room.
2. URBAN DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE, Ms. Patrick, Chair
a. Act-2-02, Lansing Housing Commission Property,
310 Seymour, Acquisition for public purpose
The City Development Office, representing the City,
requests authorization to acquire the property at 310
Seymour Street from the Lansing Housing Commission and
develop it for public use. The acquisition will result in the
removal of the fire damaged structure, most of which is
vacant, and allow the City to develop and utilize the lot for
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES March 5, 2002, Page 6
public purposes in conjunction with the City owned property
to the north.
The property was acquired in the 1960s in the Urban
Renewal #1, for public purposes, including multi-family
housing. The program was closed out in the mid-1970s.
The building at 310 Seymour contains 101 (56 efficiency, 44
one-bedroom, and 1 two-bedroom) dwelling units. In March,
2000, it was extensively damaged by fire. All residents were
relocated to other affordable units in accordance with
Lansing Housing Commission (LHC) relocation guidelines.
Currently, all housing units are vacant and the LHC is the
building's sole occupant.
The Central Lansing Comprehensive Plan designates this
area for residential use (20+ units/acre), which corresponds
with the use existing at the time of the Plan's adoption, and
with the future land use map in the 1986 River Island
Comprehensive Plan amendment. The Central Lansing
Plan also recommends preserving the urban design/primarily
historic nature of the surrounding area, which includes
architecturally significant churches and residential structures
used for residential, office and mixed uses, and encourages
compatible infill development.
The property abuts Ionia Street, which along with
Shiawassee nearby, was converted to two-way service at
the recommendation of the Central Lansing Plan. Capitol
Avenue, which also abuts the property, is a major arterial
(currently, one-way, south bound). Capitol was also
recommended for two-way conversion, and this proposal
remains under study. Shiawassee is a collector street and
Ionia and Seymour are residential streets.
Ms. Patrick stated that ACT-2-2002 has been Tabled at this
time to allow the Planning Department to bring forth
additional information on how the property may be
transferred.
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES March 5, 2002, Page 7
b. Act-4-2002, SW Corner of New York & Lake Lansing
Road, Easement for corner modifications
The City of Lansing's Public Service Department is
requesting additional property through a fee simple
acquisition be approved for the northeast portion of property
at 1024 Lake Lansing Road to allow for an improved turning
radius onto New York Avenue. The new curb has already
been put in at the proposed 30 foot radius. The enlarged
intersection brings the curb closer to the existing commercial
building.
Lake Lansing Road has recently been widened and
improved. A larger turning radius is now needed for the
subject intersection.
Lake Lansing Road is expected to carry significantly higher
volumes of traffic with the widening of the street and the
development of a new regional shopping mall further to the
east just west of U.S. 127. Traffic volumes are expected to
increase from approximately 24,000 ADT to an estimated
40,000 ADT. Approximately 10-11% of the increased traffic
is expected to travel along Lake Lansing Road west of Wood
Street.
Staff recommends approval of Act-4-2002 to enlarge the
intersection at Lake Lansing Road and New York Avenue,
which will give a larger turning radius onto New York
Avenue.
The Urban Development Committee discussed whether or
not an easement would leave the property owner potentially
liable for anything happening on the property. Mr. Rieske
presented a proposal to request acquisition of the property
with a fee simple interest in that portion of the property. The
Committee chose further to amend as a motion so the
property owner could choose either easement or acquisition
rather than taking the liability under easement or no liability
under acquisition.
The amendment was that the property owner chooses the
easement rather than City acquisition of the piece of
property that enlarges the corner turning radius. The City
shall assume full liability for the property in the easement
area.
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES March 5, 2002, Page 8
There was a general discussion about the turning radius and
the unsafe conditions when the turning vehicles cross the
center line.
PLANNING BOARD ACTION on the motion was as follows:
Ms. Patrick made a motion, seconded by Ms. Keene to recommend approval of
Act-4-2002, SW Corner of New York & Lake Lansing Road, Easement for corner
modifications with the Urban Development Committee recommendation that the
property owner chooses the easement rather than City acquisition of the piece of
property that enlarges the corner turning radius and that the City shall assume full
liability for the property in the easement area.
Frederick . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ave Foster. . . Ave
Patrick. . .Ave Ruge. . . . . . . . . . . . . ... . . . . . . . . . Ave
Smith. . .Ave Keene . .Ave
Cordill. . .Ave. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
On a Roll call vote, there were: Ayes: 7; Nays: 0; carried; unanimous;
APPROVED as AMENDED.
C. Act-5-02, SW Corner Massachusetts & Lake Lansing Rd.
[PPN 3301-01-03-380-001], Acquisition for corner
modifications
The Public Service Department requests authorization to
acquire an easement for the southwest portion of property
at 1144 Lake Lansing Road to allow for an improved turning
radius onto Massachusetts Avenue. The Department is
working on Lake Lansing Road as part of the Combined
Sewer Overflow project.
The enlarged intersection would bring the curb in closer to
this existing residential property, but should not negatively
impact the property, which is fenced in with a 4 foot tall
cyclone fence. The fence may have to be adjusted for the
larger turning radius and for sidewalk improvements along
Lake Lansing Road.
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES March 5, 2002, Page 9
Staff recommends approval of Act-5-02, the acquisition of a
fee simple interest in a portion of the SW corner of the
property at 1144 Lake Lansing Road, for additional right of
way for the intersection at Lake Lansing Road and
Massachusetts Avenue, provided that the Public Service
Department work with the property owner on any necessary
adjustments to the fence on the subject property in
compliance with the Fence Ordinance.
The amendment was that the property owner chooses the
easement rather than City acquisition of the piece of
property that enlarges the corner turning radius. The City
shall assume full liability for the property in the easement
area.
There was a general discussion about the turning radius and
safety factors.
PLANNING BOARD ACTION on the motion was as follows:
Ms. Patrick made a motion, seconded by Ms. Keene to recommend approval of
Act-5-02, SW Corner Massachusetts & Lake Lansing Road, Acquisition for corner
modifications with the recommendation that the minimum turning radius be
investigated and that if less than 30' will due, to use the minimum turning radius
necessary for safety and with the Urban Development Committee recommendation that
the property owner chooses the easement rather than City acquisition of the piece of
property that enlarges the corner turning radius and that the City shall assume full
liability for the property in the easement area.
Frederick . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ave Foster. . . Ave
Patrick. . .Ave Ruge. . . . . . . . . . . . . ... . . . . . . . . . Ave
Smith. . .Ave Keene . .Ave
Cordill. . .Ave
On a Roll call vote, there were: Ayes: 7; Nays: 0; carried; unanimous;
APPROVED as AMENDED.
Next meeting, Tuesday, March 26, 2002, at 4:00 p.m.
316 N. Capitol Ave., Department Conference Room.
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES March 5, 2002, Page 10
3. Committee of the Whole - None.
4. Executive Committee - None.
C. REPORT FROM PLANNING MANAGER
1. 2001 Planning Board Evaluation Summary.
2. Possible training information for the Planning Board Members.
3. Regional Workshops from the Planning and Zoning News,
January 2002 issue.
4. City Council action on Planning Board Items.
5. Status of Senior Planner Vacancy.
6. Status of Planning Board Vacancy.
D. PENDING ITEMS (future action required)
1. Zoninq and Ordinance Committee
a. - - urn t.,"H" Light Industrial District to"G-1" Business District
b. �Tabled February 11 1998
-5-98,401-407 E. Grand fiver,"F"Commercial District to"G-1"Business
District(Tabled June 10, 1998)
C. Z-8-2000, 3901 S. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.,"F"Commercial to"H"Light
Industrial District(Tabled June 14,2000)
d. Z-15-2000, 301 W. Lenawee Street, Professional Office to"G-1"Business
District(Tabled January 17,2001
e. P-1-2001,Tentative Preliminary lat,Wexford Woods (Tabled June 13, May 9,
2001)
f. PRD-2-01,"Crystal Woods", Planned Residential Neighborhood (Tabled August
15, 2001)
g. Z-8-01,Willoughby Rd.,"A"Residential to"DM-1" Residential,"D-1" Professional
Office and' Residential (Tabled October 10,2001
h. SLU-6-01,517-519 E. Grand River Ave., Church in"F-1"Commercial District
(Tabled November 14, 2001)
i. SLU-8-01, 3000 W. Miller Road,Additional Parking for an Existing Church
(Tabled November 14,2001)
2. Urban Development Committee
a. Act-9-2000,201 E. Grand River Avenue, Proj. Sign Over ROW (Tabled June 27,
2000)
b. Act-27-01, 313 E. Grand River Ave. (Comfort Station), Market for Sale (Tabled
November 27,2001)
C. Act-2-02, Lansing Housing Commission Property, 310 Seymour,Acquisition for
public purposes(Tabled February 26, 2002)
3. Committee of the Whole
4. Planning Board
8. NEW BUSINESS - None.
9. COMMENTS FROM CHAIRPERSON - None.
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES March 5, 2002, Page 11
10. COMMENTS FROM BOARD MEMBERS
Ms. Cordill requested an excused absence for the next meeting and for possibly
a few months.
It was moved by Mr. Ruge, supported by Mr. Smith to approve the excused
absence requests for Ms. Cordill. On a voice vote, the motion carried
unanimously (7-0).
Ms. Foster stated that her class was doing a future vision for the City of Lansing,
25 years in the future plus, and it will be on public display April 23, 2002 at the
MSU International Center from 12:00 p.m. to approximately 2:00-3:00 p.m. The
Board members are invited. Mr. Ruff stated that the Planning Office is in the
process of drafting a Professional Services Contract to help offset the cost for
the students and that the students are putting a lot of effort into their work. He
also explained that Visioning is part of the Master Plan process and that this
would help the public gain an idea of what can be done and for them to look at
areas in the City of Lansing differently. He stated that this would help generate
some thoughts and that there would be graphics, CDS, etc. available to review.
Mr. Smith stated that he may need an excused absence for the next meeting.
11. BOARD MEMBER CODE ENFORCEMENT NOTIFICATION REPORTS - None.
12. ADJOURNMENT - Meeting was adjourned at 8:53 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
James A. Ruff, Secretary, Planning Board
PB Minutes.030502.wpd
APPROVED WITH CORRECTIONS: Draft to Clerk February 27,2002
PAGE 2, UNDER MARY EVELEIGH,THIRD LINE,WASN'T S/B WAS Approved March 5,2002
PAGE 8, UNDER BUSINESS 7A, NOVEMBER 6,2001 S/B FEBRUARY 5,2002 To Clerk March 6,2002
Minutes of the Regular Meeting
LANSING PLANNING BOARD
7:00 p.m., Tenth Floor, Council Chambers
Lansing City Hall
Tuesday, February 19, 2002
1. OPENING SESSION
The meeting was called to order at 7:05 p.m. by Chairman Frederick.
A. Roll call. Present: Foster, Frederick, Cordill, Patrick, Smith, Ruge.
B. Staff Attending: Stachowiak, Rieske.
C. Excused absence: Ms. Keene.
It was moved by Mr. Ruge, supported by Mr. Smith to approve an excused
absence request for Ms. Keene. On a Voice Vote, the motion carried
unanimously (6-0).
2. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
It was moved by Mr. Ruge, supported by Ms. Cordill to approve the agenda.
On a voice vote, the motion carried unanimously (6-0).
3. COMMUNICATIONS
A. Bill Rieske presented a preliminary agenda for the next Urban
Development meeting, scheduled for February 26, 2002.
4. PUBLIC HEARINGS
A. Z-16-2001, NW Corner of Aurelius and Miller Road, "A" Residential &
"DM-3" Residential to "D-1" Professional Office District
This is a request by Martin Property Development to rezone a parcel of
land located northwest of the intersection of Miller Rd. and Aurelius Rd.
and more specifically described as:
A parcel of land in the Southeast 114 of Section 3, T3N, R2W, Delhi
Township, Ingham County, Michigan, the Boundary of said parcel
described as: thence N89 °35'10"W along the South line of Section
3 a distance of 2261.04 feet; thence N00 `04'27"W 330.00 feet,
thence S89 °35'10"E parallel with the said South line 264.00 feet;
PLANNING BOARD MEETING MINUTES February 19, 2002, Page 2
thence S00 004'27"E 62.99 feet; thence S89 035'10"E parallel with
said South line 1997.38 feet to the East line of Section 3; thence
S00°00'00"W along said East line 267.01 feet to the point of
beginning.
This property is requested to be rezoned from "A" Residential District and
"DM-Y Residential District to "D-1" Professional Office District.
Sue Stachowiak gave a brief overview.
John Peckham, Martin Property Development of East Lansing,
represented the applicant, Mr. Dorian Lange. He clarified that Martin
Property Development appeared before the Planning Board about a
month or two ago regarding rezoning of the property and in Committee
was asked if Martin Property Development would be willing to amend its
rezoning request to the Professional Office District as opposed to the "H"
Light Industrial District. After careful consideration, Martin Property
Development decided to amend the request to the Professional Office
District based on staff recommendations and the Planning Commission's
denial of the request for "H" Light Industrial District. At the City Council
level, the City Attorney felt that this wasn't the way it was originally
advertised and that there could be a potential problem as it relates to the
advertising of incorrect information relating to the zoning. Mr. Peckham
apologized for the confusion of the rezoning and stated that Martin
Property Development is basically starting over with their rezoning
request. He stated that Martin Property Development is willing to go back
to Committee if the Planning Board feels its appropriate, and that this
request is consistent with discussions from previous meetings.
Mary Eveleigh, resident of 1801 E. Miller Road, represented her father,
Paisley T. Clark, who owns a residence nearby. She stated that her
father was (wasn't) the only one whose property was zoned "A"
Residential District. She stated that this was better planning than the first
time as far as industrial because it was leaving the property open for a lot
of things. Her father is concerned with his property being "A" Residential
District and she stated that if Martin Property Development has
professional office zoning around her father's property, it would allow
commercial dwellings to surround the property. She is concerned that this
will affect her father's property taxes and maybe tax him right out of his
property. She questioned the possibility of her father being permitted to
rebuild his home in case of a fire. She expressed her concerns about the
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) standards. She commented that
commercial standards are different than residential standards and
questioned whether there was protection under these standards. She