HomeMy WebLinkAbout2003 Planning Board Oct-Nov Minutes FINAL APPROVED WITH A CORRECTION: Draft to Clerk December 9,2003
PG 5, under section 7,13,2, COMMITTEE REPORTS, Approved January 6,2004
"Ms. Cordill"s/b"Mr. McConnell" To Clerk January 15,2004
Minutes of the Regular Meeting
LANSING PLANNING BOARD
7:00 p.m., Tenth Floor, Council Chambers ;
Lansing City Hall
Tuesday, December 2, 2003
1. OPENING SESSION
The meeting was called to order at 7:00 p.m. by Ms. Cordill, Vice Chair.
A. Roll call: Present: Frederick, Ruge, Keene, Cordill, McConnell.
B. Staff Attending: Stachowiak.
C. Excused absences: Foster.
Mr. Frederick made a motion, seconded by Mr. Ruge to approve an excused
absence request for Ms. Foster for tonight's meeting. On a voice vote, the
motion carried unanimously (5-0).
Mr. Ruge made a motion, seconded by Mr. Frederick to approve an excused
absence request for Ms. Keene from the November 18th meeting. On a voice
vote, the motion carried unanimously (5-0).
Mr. Ruge made a motion, seconded by Mr. Frederick to ap�rove an excused
absence request for Mr. McConnell from the November 18t meeting. On a voice
vote, the motion carried unanimously (5-0).
2. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Mr. Frederick made a motion, seconded by Ms. Keene to approve the agenda.
On a voice vote, the motion carried unanimously (5-0).
3. COMMUNICATIONS — None.
4. HEARINGS — None.
5. COMMENTS FROM THE AUDIENCE (5 minutes each)
Mr. Rob Hurand, resident of 121 Whitehills Drive, East Lansing, spoke on
behalf of the Board of Director's for Haven House, and thanked the Planning
Board for its past and future support of the shelter. He stated that this 28-bed
facility has provided shelter to people in the Lansing area for the past 20 years,
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES December 2, 2003 Page 2
and that the average stay at Haven House is just under 30 days. He also stated
that the goal of Haven House is to assist families in reaching their goals.
Seeing no one else wishing to address the Board, Ms. Cordill closed the public
comment period.
6. RECESS — None.
7. BUSINESS SESSION
A. Minutes for Approval — December 2, 2003
Mr. Frederick moved; seconded by Mr. McConnell to approve the minutes
of December 2, 2003 without corrections. On a voice vote, the motion
carried unanimously (5-0). The minutes of December 2, 2003 were
APPROVED.
B. Committee Reports
1. ZONING AND ORDINANCE COMMITTEE, Mr. Ruge, Chair
a. Z-11-2003, Lots 151 & 152, Marquette Street "H" Light
trial District to "C" Residential District
This is a request by Spencer Batten of Universal Building
Property Management, to rezone Lots 151 & 152, Marquette
Street, more specifically described as:
Lots 151 & 152, M. Mitshkun, S. Oak Grove
Subdivision, City of Lansing, Ingham County,
Michigan (PPN: 33-01-01-05-252-151)
from "H" Light Industrial District to "C" Residential District. If
approved, the applicant intends to construct a duplex on this
property.
Staff recommended approval of rezoning Z-11-2003, Lots
151 & 152, Marquette Street "H" Light Industrial District to
"C" Residential District.
In Committee, the request was recommended for approval
and the motion carried unanimously (3-0).
Mr. Ruge made a motion, seconded by Mr. Frederick, to recommend approval of
Z-11-2003, Lots 151 & 152, Marquette Street "H" Light Industrial District to "C"
Residential District.
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES December 2, 2003 Page 3
Frederick .Ave Cordill. Ave
Keene Ave Ruge. Ave
McConnell .Ave
On a roll call vote, there were: Ayes: 5; Nays: 0; carried; unanimous.
APPROVED.
b. Z-12-2003, 1700 Beal Avenue, "F" Commercial District to
"C" Residential District
This is a request by Tomas Brown and Chris O'Leary of
Capitol Invest LLC, to rezone the property at 1700 Beal
Avenue, more specifically described as:
North 36 Feet of East 90 Feet, Lot 1, Block 11, Park
Place, City of Lansing, Ingham County, Michigan
from "F" Commercial District to "C" Residential District. The
purpose of this request is to bring the zoning of the property
into conformance with its residential use.
Staff recommended approval of rezoning Z-12-2003, 1700
Beal Avenue from "F" Commercial District to "C" Residential
District.
In Committee, the request was recommended for approval
and the motion carried unanimously (3-0).
Mr. Ruge made a motion, seconded by Mr. Frederick, to recommend approval of
Z-12-2003, 1700 Beal Avenue, "F" Commercial District to "C" Residential District.
Frederick .Ave Cordill. Ave
Keene Ave Ruge. Ave
McConnell .Ave
On a roll call vote, there were: Ayes: 5; Nays: 0; carried; unanimous.
APPROVED.
C. Z-13-2003, 916 & 930 E. Mt. Hope Avenue, "D-1"
Professional Office & "J" Parking District to "F"
Commercial District
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES December 2, 2003 Page 4
This is a request by Kin T. Cheng to rezone the properties at
916 & 930 E. Mt. Hope Avenue, more specifically described
as:
916 E. Mt. Hope: PART OF LOTS 19, 20, 21, 32, 33 & 34,
COM NE COR LOT 21, TH W 98 FT, S 130 FT, E 16 FT, S
53 FT, E 100 FT, N 53 FT, W 18 FT, N 130 FT TO BEG;
HOLLYWOOD SUB, CITY OF LANSING, INGHAM
COUNTY, MICHIGAN
930 E. Mt. Hope: LOTS 22, 23, 24 & 25 ALSO N 10 FT OF
LOTS 34 & 35 HOLLYWOOD SUB, CITY OF LANSING,
INGHAM COUNTY, MICHIGAN
from "D-1" Professional Office & "J" Parking Districts to "F"
Commercial District. If approved, the applicant intends to
continue utilizing the existing building at 916 E. Mt. Hope
Avenue as a hair salon and to utilize the existing building at
930 E. Mt. Hope for a Chinese Take-Out Restaurant.
Staff recommended approval of rezoning Z-13-2003, 916 &
930 E. Mt. Hope Avenue, "D-1" Professional Office & "J"
Parking District to "E-2" Local Shopping District since this
zoning district would permit the applicant's proposal, but
would not permit vehicle sales.
In Committee, the request, as recommended by staff, was
recommended for approval and the motion carried
unanimously (3-0).
Mr. Ruge made a motion, seconded by Mr. Frederick, to recommend approval of
Z-13-2003, 916 & 930 E. Mt. Hope Avenue, "D-1" Professional Office & "J"
Parking District to "E-2" Local Shopping District.
Frederick . . Ave Ruge. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ave
Keene . . Ave McConnell . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ave
Cordill. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ave
On a roll call vote, there were: Ayes: 5; Nays: 0; carried; unanimous.
APPROVED.
Next meeting, Wednesday, January 14, 2004 at 4 p.m.
316 N. Capitol Avenue, Department Conference Room
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES December 2, 2003 Page 5
2. URBAN DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE, , ViGe Chair
Mr. McConnell, Chair
a. Act-12-2003, 416 E. South Street, Purchase for O & M
Storage
This is a request by the City of Lansing, Department of
Public Service - Operations and Maintenance Office to
purchase property located at 416 E. South Street to be used
for the storage of trash bags and carts and recycle bins
inventory. Operations and Maintenance is seeking a better
location for storage and security of their inventories
The property is located at 416 E. South Street, west of S.
Cedar Street on the south side of the street. It is trapezoidal
in shape, approximately 221' deep, with about 50' of
frontage, and 98' in width at the rear lot line.
An appraisal is needed to determine the value of the
property. The price is expected to be around $108,000. The
subject building is close to O&M's facilities, and adjacent to a
parking lot used by O&M staff.
Staff recommended approval of Act-12-2003, 416 E. South
Street, Purchase for O & M Storage.
In Committee, the request was recommended for approval
and the motion carried unanimously (3-0).
Mr. McConnell made a motion, seconded by Mr. Ruge, to recommend approval of
Act-12-2003, 416 E. South Street, Purchase for O & M Storage.
Frederick . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ave Ruge. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ave
Keene . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ave McConnell . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ave
Cordill. . . Ave
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
On a roll call vote, there were: Ayes: 5; Nays: 0; carried; unanimous.
APPROVED.
Next meeting, Tuesday, January 27, 2004, at 4:00 p.m.
316 N. Capitol Ave., Department Conference Room.
8. NEW BUSINESS — None.
9. COMMENTS FROM CHAIRPERSON — None.
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES December 2, 2003 Page 6
10. COMMENTS FROM BOARD MEMBERS
Mr. Ruge asked for an updated telephone list.
Mr. Ruge stated that the Parks facility on Shiawassee Street appears to have
expanded onto the adjoining lot. Ms. Stachowiak stated that she would check
into the matter.
Ms. Keene inquired about the MSU Women's Crew facility. Ms. Stachowiak
stated that she would look into the matter.
11. BOARD MEMBER CODE ENFORCEMENT NOTIFICATION REPORTS
Mr. Ruge stated that Neogen appears to have stopped parking in the front yard at
the location on N. Pennsylvania. Ms. Stachowiak stated that Code Compliance
will continue to monitor this situation.
12. ADJOURNMENT - Meeting was adjourned at 7:30 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
James A. Ruff, Secretary, Planning Board
PB Minutes.120203.doc
Approved as written 12-2-03 Draft to Clerk November 21,2003
Approved December 2,2003
To Clerk December 2,2003
Minutes of the Regular Meeting
LANSING PLANNING BOARD
7:00 p.m., Tenth Floor, Council Chambers
Lansing City Hall
Wednesday, November 18, 2003
1: OPENING SESSION
The meeting was called to order at 7:00 p.m. by Chair Foster.
A. Roll call: Present: Foster, Ruge, Cordill.
B. Staff Attending: Stachowiak, Rieske.
C. Excused absences: None.
Ms. Foster stated that the Planning Board does not have a quorum and
therefore, the members who are present will only be holding the two scheduled
public hearings and taking public comments. She further stated that no action
would be taken at this meeting.
2. APPROVAL OF AGENDA— None.
3. COMMUNICATIONS — None.
4. HEARINGS
A. Amendments to the Planning and Zoning Code (Wellhead Protection)
Ms. Stachowiak presented the proposed amendments. She stated that
the changes would require that information be provided during the site
plan review process to ensure protection of the City's groundwater supply
from potential sources of contamination. The proposal includes amending
the site plan review sections of the ordinance in order to clarify the site
plan review process, provide a more detailed list of the type of information
required for submission of a site plan and to eliminate the section on
modified site plans.
Seeing no one else wishing to speak on this matter, Ms. Foster referred
Amendments to the Planning and Zoning Code (Wellhead Protection)
to the Zoning and Ordinance Committee, tentatively scheduled to meet at
4:00 p.m. on December 10, 2003.
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES November 18, 2003 Page 2
B. Capital Improvements Program (CIP)
Mr. Rieske stated that this is public hearing to obtain comments on needs,
views, and proposals for the preparation of the Capital Improvement
Program (CIP) for fiscal years 2005 to 2010.
Ms. Foster suggested that studies be conducted regarding a 2-way
conversion of Saginaw Street and Oakland/Grand River Avenue.
Seeing no one else wishing to speak on this matter, Ms. Foster referred
Capital Improvements Program (CIP) to the Urban Development
Committee, scheduled to meet at 4:00 p.m. on January 27, 2004.
5. COMMENTS FROM THE AUDIENCE (5 minutes each)
Seeing no one else wishing to address the Board, Ms. Foster closed the public
comment period.
6. RECESS — None.
7. BUSINESS SESSION — None.
8. NEW BUSINESS — None.
9. COMMENTS FROM CHAIRPERSON — None.
10. COMMENTS FROM BOARD MEMBERS — None.
11. BOARD MEMBER CODE ENFORCEMENT NOTIFICATION REPORTS — None.
12. ADJOURNMENT - Meeting was adjourned at 7:25 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
James A. Ruff, Secretary, Planning Board
PB Minutes.111803.doc
Approved as written 12-2-03 Draft to Clerk November 12,2003
Approved December 2,2003
To Clerk! December 3,2003
Minutes of the Regular Meeting
LANSING PLANNING BOARD
7:00 p.m., Tenth Floor, Council Chambers
Lansing City Hall
Wednesday, November 5, 2003
1. OPENING SESSION
The meeting was called to order at 7:00 p.m. by Chairman Frederick.
A. Roll call: Present: Frederick, Foster, Keene, Ruge, Cordill, McConnell.
B. Staff Attending: Stachowiak.
C. Excused absences: None.
Mr. Ruge made a motion, seconded by Ms. Keene to approve an excused
absence request for Mr. Frederick for the November 18th meeting. On a voice
vote, the motion carried unanimously (6-0).
2. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Ms. Keene made a motion, seconded by Ms. Cordill to approve the agenda.
On a voice vote, the motion carried unanimously (6-0).
3. COMMUNICATIONS — None.
4. HEARINGS
A. Z-11-2003, Lots 151 & 152, Marquette Street "H" Light Industrial
District to "C" Residential District
This is request by Spencer Batten of Universal Building Property
management, to rezone Lots 151 & 152, Marquette Street, more
specifically described as:
Lots 151 & 152, M. Mitshkun, S. Oak Grove Subdivision, City of
Lansing, Ingham County, Michigan (PPN: 33-01-01-05-252-151)
from "H" Light Industrial District to "C" Residential District. If approved, the
applicant intends to construct a duplex on this property.
Ms. Stachowiak gave a brief overview.
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES November 5, 2003 Page 2
Mr. Ruge inquired about the development on the "H" Light Industrial
property. Ms. Stachowiak stated that there is a rather large area of green
space and that it is all one parcel according to the City Assessor's map.
Ms. Foster inquired about whether or not the property was meant to be
rental or owned. Ms. Stachowiak stated that the property was meant for
rental.
Mr. Chris VanMourik, resident of 8708 Talbot Drive, stated that there is
vacant land to the right of the parcel and residential homes to the left of
the parcel. This would be a good buffer zone for this area. There are
railroad tracks located at the back side of the property.
Ms. Foster inquired about the garage design and how set the applicant
was with having the garage in the front. She was not sure if it was
possible to have the garages placed on the side so they would not be
facing the street. Mr. VanMourik stated that on the plan it was scaled
back after the previous plan showed the garages protruding farther than
what it currently was. The lot is too narrow to place the garage on the
side.
Seeing no one else wishing to speak on this matter, Mr. Frederick referred
Z-11-2003 to the Zoning and Ordinance Committee, tentatively scheduled
to meet at 5:30 p.m. on November 18, 2003, prior to the next Planning
Board meeting.
B. Z-12-2003, 1700 Beal Avenue, "F" Commercial District to "C"
Residential District
This is a request by Tomas Brown and Chris O'Leary of Capitol Invest
LLC, to rezone the property at 1700 Beal Avenue, more specifically
described as:
North 36 Feet of East 90 Feet, Lot 1, Block 11, Park Place, City of
Lansing, Ingham County, Michigan
from "F" Commercial District to "C" Residential District. The purpose of
this request is to bring the zoning of the property into conformance with its
residential use.
Ms. Stachowiak gave a brief overview.
Mr. Ruge inquired about the number of units. Ms. Stachowiak stated two
units and that "C" Residential District permits up to two units.
Ms. Foster inquired about the property and if the Master Plan called for the
property to be "F" Commercial. Ms. Stachowiak stated that the Master
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES November 5, 2003 Page 3
Plan called for the property to be residential, and that the existing zoning
is in conflict with the Master Plan. The proposed zoning would be
compatible with the Master Plan.
Mr. Tomas Brown, resident of 4580Hawk Hollow Drive, Bath, stated
that he is the seller of the property. He and his partner have owned the
property since 1995 and were unaware that the property was zoned "F"
Commercial. There are currently two qualified buyers for the property,
one of which would be an owner-occupied resident of the property. He did
not understand why the property was zoned commercial as there is
nothing surrounding the property that is commercial. Because of the lot
size and parking situation, the property is not feasible for anything
commercial. He believes that the property would definitely be improved
with the ownership and that it would be better for the community.
He inquired about obtaining a letter from the Board regarding the finance
processing for the future owner. He stated that the future owner needed a
letter from the Board stating that if the property were to burn, he would be
able to rebuild as residential. Ms. Stachowiak stated that until such time
as a rezoning is approved or disapproved, she cannot provide a letter as
she cannot guarantee that the request would be approved. She stated
that she could give a standard letter for nonconforming properties but
does not believe that this would make it past the lender.
Seeing no one else wishing to speak on this matter, Mr. Frederick referred
Z-12-2003 to the Zoning and Ordinance Committee, tentatively scheduled
to meet at 5:30 p.m. on November 18, 2003, prior to the next Planning
Board meeting.
C. Z-13-2003, 916 & 930 E. Mt. Hope Avenue, "D-1" Professional Office &
"J" Parking District to "F" Commercial District
This is a request by Kin T. Cheng to rezone the properties at 916 & 930 E.
Mt. Hope Avenue, more specifically described as:
916 E. Mt. Hope: PART OF LOTS 19, 20, 21, 32, 33 & 34, COM NE COR
LOT 21, TH W 98 FT, S 130 FT, E 16 FT, S 53 FT, E 100 FT, N 53 FT, W
18 FT, N 130 FT TO BEG; HOLLYWOOD SUB, CITY OF LANSING,
INGHAM COUNTY, MICHIGAN
930 E. Mt. Hope: LOTS 22, 23, 24 & 25 ALSO N 10 FT OF LOTS 34 &
35 HOLLYWOOD SUB, CITY OF LANSING, INGHAM COUNTY,
MI CHI GA N
from "D-1" Professional Office & "J" Parking Districts to "F" Commercial
District. If approved, the applicant intends to continue utilizing the existing
building at 916 E. Mt. Hope Avenue as a hair salon and to utilize the
existing building at 930 E. Mt. Hope for a Chinese Take-Out Restaurant
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES November 5, 2003 Page 4
Ms. Stachowiak gave a brief overview.
Ms. Cordill inquired about the nail salon building being a part of the
proposal. Ms. Stachowiak stated that the applicant owns the property and
that their proposal is to rezone the property to bring its current use into
compliance with the Zoning Ordinance.
Ms. Stachowiak stated that the nail salon is currently nonconforming
because it is located in an office district and this proposal would allow its
continued use.
The hair salon directly west of the property is not a part of the proposal.
Ms. Foster inquired about the current buildings being demolished and a
new building being constructed. Ms. Stachowiak stated there would be the
potential for this situation.
Mr. Frederick inquired about the history of the property and if it could be
reviewed and reported to the Zoning and Ordinance Committee. Ms.
Stachowiak stated that she would look into the matter. The most recent
history with the building was the possibility of a clinic moving to this
location. Parking on the site was limited, and a daycare center was next
door. Ingham County decided that this was not the best location for the
clinic and relocated to another area.
Mr. Frederick stated that there was an issue with the property immediately
to the west or maybe the corner property had an issue with the sign. Ms.
Stachowiak stated that she would look into the matter.
Mr. Chia Cheng, resident of 2721 Norwich Road, stated that he would
like to utilize the corner building (930 E. Mt. Hope), change the facade,
clean up the parking lot, do some landscaping, and make it a Chinese
take-out facility. Nothing will be done to the property located at 916 E. Mt.
Hope.
Mr. Joe Gentilozzi, resident of 5418 Delta River Drive, stated that he
represents the seller of the property. The property has been vacant for
many years and that it was a blood collection center for Drs. Maldanado
and Kaitley who now have Laboratory Corporation of America and a few
other companies on the south side of town. He has marketed the property
for numerous years for the two doctors and eventually a user came along
to purchase the property. The business plan for the user went south only
weeks after the closing. The property does need reposition and has
become a real eye sore on the corner. The Board has support from the
current owner to proceed with the proposal and if anything can be done,
the applicant is accessible. Ms. Stachowiak knows how to reach him, if
necessary. He would appreciate any support from the Board.
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES November 5, 2003 Page 5
Seeing no one else wishing to speak on this matter, Mr. Frederick referred
Z-13-2003 to the Zoning and Ordinance Committee, tentatively scheduled
to meet at 5:30 p.m. on November 18, 2003, prior to the next Planning
Board meeting.
5. COMMENTS FROM THE AUDIENCE (5 minutes each)
Seeing no one else wishing to address the Board, Mr. Frederick closed the public
comment period.
6. RECESS was not taken by the Board.
7. BUSINESS SESSION
A. Minutes for Approval — October 7, 2003
Mr. McConnell moved; seconded by Ms. Cordill to approve the minutes of
October 7, 2003 without corrections. On a voice vote, the motion carried
unanimously (6-0). The minutes of October 7, 2003 were
APPROVED.
B. Committee Reports
1. ZONING AND ORDINANCE COMMITTEE, Mr. Ruge, Chair
Ms. Stachowiak stated that Mr. Frederick will not be able to attend
this meeting and asked if someone else could attend in his
absence. Ms. Keene stated that she would need to check her
calendar. Mr. McConnell stated that he has another commitment.
Ms. Cordill was not sure. Ms. Keene stated that she may be able to
attend.
Next meeting, Tuesday, November 18, 2003, at 5:30 p.m.
124 W. Michigan Ave., City Council Conference Room.
2. URBAN DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE, Ms. Keene, Chair
Next meeting, Tuesday, November 25, 2003, at 4:00 p.m.
316 N. Capitol Ave., Department Conference Room.
3. COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE - None.
4. EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE - None.
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES November 5, 2003 Page 6
C. Report from Planning Manager- None.
D. Pending Items: Future action required
1. Zoning and Ordinance Committee
a. Z-1-1998, 1223 N.Turner St.,"H" Light Industrial District to"G-1" Business
District(Tabled February 11, 1998)
b. Z-5-1998,401-407 E. Grand River,"F"Commercial District to"G-1"Business
District(Tabled June 10, 1998)
C. PRD-2-2001,"Crystal Woods", Planned Residential Neighborhood (Tabled
August 15,2001)
d. SLU-8-2001, 3000 W. Miller Road,Additional Parking for an Existing Church
(Tabled November 14,2001)
e. SLU-3-2002,2710 N. Grand River Ave., Church in the"F"Commercial District&
"J"Parking District(Tabled May 15, 2002)
2. Urban Development Committee
a. Act-9-2000,201 E. Grand River Avenue, Proj. Sign Over ROW (Tabled
June 27,2000)
b. Capital Improvements Program (CIP), (Tabled March 25,2003)
C. Master Plan Project
d. Act-1-2003, SE Corner Michigan &Washington, Lot 3, Block 111, Orig Plat,
Vacate Alley(part) (Tabled on April 29, 2003)
e. Act-3-2003, Hazel St.W of Cedar, Close intersection with Cedar(Tabled on
April 29,2003)
3. Committee of the Whole
4. Planning Board
5. Board Member Code Enforcement Notification Reports
a. Teen Challenge-wood privacy fence(May 20, 2003)
b. Dollar Store-Willow Street&MLK Blvd.- landscaping&buffering (May 20,
2003)
C. Grovenburg property-dumpster in ROW(July 1,2003)
d. Padnos Iron&Metal-scraps piled 2-3 time the height of the fence(July 15,
2003)
e. No street signs at intersection east of Washington and Miller(July 15,2003)
f. Jolly&Waverly Roads-tree trimming business(August 5,2003)
g. 4831 Eastlawn Drive-huge garage(August 19, 2003)
h. Cedar and Oakland Streets-new street signs(September 3,2003)
i. Pryor's Towing-time frame for completion of conditions (September 3,2003)
j. SE Corner of N. Grand River Ave.&Sadie Ct.- trash everywhere&dumpsters
have not been emptied (September 3,2003)
k. Super Wheel Auto Sales-S.Cedar Street, South of Mt. Hope-heavy equipment
taken off dirt&placed in parking area over gas easement(September 10,2003)
I. Across from Cleveland Street& N.Grand River Avenue-tanks being stored
(September 10,2003)
M. Grand River-weird truck(September 10,2003)
n. 1100 block of Genesee, garage foundation deteriorating/outer shell never built
(September 16,2003)
Ms. Stachowiak provided the Board members with copies of emails
that address most of the complaints on the list.
She stated that item 5d was not found in violation even though it is
a real eye sore.
With Item 5e, there is a street sign at Washington and Miller. Ms.
Stachowiak stated that if this is the wrong location, please let the
Planning Office know so that it can be reviewed more carefully.
Ms. Cordill explained that when she was looking for another
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES November 5, 2003 Page 7
property just west of this location, she did not see a street sign.
Ms. Stachowiak stated this item can be reviewed again.
Ms. Stachowiak stated that item 5f is in progress.
She stated that with item 5g, she and two building inspectors have
gone to the location and cannot find the garage. Mr. Frederick
stated that the garage is located at East Lawn and gave detailed
directions. Ms. Stachowiak stated that she would recheck the
location.
With item 5h, she stated that new signs have been ordered and that
the new signs should be going up soon.
With item 5j, she stated that the notice has been issued. She was
at the location this afternoon and she stated that the owner has
started cleaning up the property. It is looking better.
With item 51, she stated that this in the process of being corrected.
Currently, it looks much better.
With item 5m, she stated that this was addressed by a Code
Compliance officer. Mr. Frederick commented that this particular
truck is a very nice antique from the 1940s and that it has not been
moved in years. Ms. Stachowiak stated that as of Friday, all of the
Code Compliance officers will be changing areas. Someone new
will be in this area next week and she will have them check into the
matter.
With item 5n, she stated that this has been addressed and no
action can be taken at this time.
Ms. Cordill inquired about the size of a street sign at intersections.
Ms. Stachowiak stated that she will look into the matter.
Ms. Stachowiak stated that under the Zoning and Ordinance
Committee, the first three tabled items (a,b and c) will be withdrawn
from the pending list.
8. NEW BUSINESS
A. Election of Officers
Mr. Frederick opened the floor for nominations.
Ms. Foster made a motion, seconded by Mr. McConnell to recommend re-
election of Mr. Frederick as Chairman.
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES November 5, 2003 Page 8
Mr. Frederick stated that he has been Chairman for a little more than two
years and that the Planning Board's informal policy is that the
Chairperson's seat, after two years, should be passed along to allow
someone else to have the opportunity.
Mr. Ruge made a motion, seconded by Ms. Keene to recommend Ms.
Foster for Chairperson.
On a voice vote, the motions were tied (3-3). Ms. Foster accepted the
position of Chairperson.
Mr. Ruge made a motion, seconded by Ms. Keene to recommend Ms.
Cordill for Vice Chairperson. On a voice vote, the motion carried
unanimously (6-0).
9. COMMENTS FROM CHAIRPERSON
Mr. Frederick thanked the Board members for their indulgence the last two years
and stated that he enjoyed it. He is happy to pass the opportunity on to Ms.
Foster. He congratulated both Ms. Foster and Ms. Cordill on their new positions.
10. COMMENTS FROM BOARD MEMBERS
Ms. Cordill inquired about new members. Ms. Stachowiak stated that the new
members who have come on board are on the Board of Zoning Appeals. There
have been difficulties because the Planning Board requires more commitment.
Ms. Foster inquired about what positions were left to be filled. Mr. Frederick
stated that there should be eight Board members. Mr. Ruge inquired about
which Ward was short members.
Mr. Ruge inquired about an updated phone list of the Planning Department. Ms.
Stachowiak stated that she will take care of the matter.
Mr. Ruge brought up the issue of garages with attached houses like the
proposed request. He stated that there are cities that have outlawed these and
have made it to where these garages do not meet code requirements. All that
needs to be done is to say that the garage cannot be in front of the front of the
house or state that it has to be a certain distance behind the house. This would
be a valuable change to the City's ordinances. Ms. Foster inquired about the
change and if it would be easy to make the change to the garages. Ms.
Stachowiak stated that it would be an easy change. Ms. Keene inquired about
how it would work. Ms. Stachowiak stated that having this change pass through
City Council would be more difficult. The drafting of the language would be easy
and it would be a redraft of the ordinance. Ms. Keene inquired about which
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES November 5, 2003 Page 9
Committee would receive the draft. Ms. Stachowiak stated that Zoning and
Ordinance Committee would address the issue at the next meeting.
11. BOARD MEMBER CODE ENFORCEMENT NOTIFICATION REPORTS
Mr. Ruge stated that there is a new party store/grocery store at the corner of
Lathrop Street and Michigan Avenue. The Sign Inspector needs to pay them a
visit and explain the City's rules regarding the sign. He stated that there are little
signs (i.e. pop) all over the place on the outside of the building.
Mr. Ruge stated that the Board rezoned Neogen's grey house on North
Pennsylvania and that the zoning does not allow front yard parking. Ms.
Stachowiak stated that Neogen may have been ticketed once for parking and
that she will have someone look into the matter.
Mr. Frederick stated that there were new sign poles at Keeps Party Store. Ms.
Stachowiak stated that she did speak to the Sign Inspector about the issue. She
will look into the matter.
12. ADJOURNMENT - Meeting was adjourned at 7:50 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
James A. Ruff, Secretary, Planning Board
PB Minutes.110503.doc
Draft to Clerk November 12,2003
cJ Approved 2003
4
- To Clerk 2003
Minutes of the Regular Meeting
LANSING PLANNING BOARD
co _.
< = 7:00 p.m., Tenth Floor, Council Chambers
Lansing City Hall
Wednesday, November 5, 2003
1. OPENING SESSION
The meeting was called to order at 7:00 p.m. by Chairman Frederick.
A. Roll call: Present: Frederick, Foster, Keene, Ruge, Cordill, McConnell.
B. Staff Attending: Stachowiak.
C. Excused absences: None.
Mr. Ruge made a motion, seconded by Ms. Keene to approve an excused
absence request for Mr. Frederick for the November 18th meeting. On a voice
vote, the motion carried unanimously (6-0).
2. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Ms. Keene made a motion, seconded by Ms. Cordill to approve the agenda.
On a voice vote, the motion carried unanimously (6-0).
3. COMMUNICATIONS — None.
4. HEARINGS
A. Z-11-2003, Lots 151 & 152, Marquette Street "H" Light Industrial
District to "C" Residential District
This is request by Spencer Batten of Universal Building Property
management, to rezone Lots 151 & 152, Marquette Street, more
specifically described as:
Lots 151 & 152, M. Mitshkun, S. Oak Grove Subdivision, City of
Lansing, Ingham County, Michigan (PPN: 33-01-01-05-252-151)
from "H" Light Industrial District to "C" Residential District. If approved, the
applicant intends to construct a duplex on this property.
Ms. Stachowiak gave a brief overview.
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES November 5, 2003 Page 2
Mr. Ruge inquired about the development on the "H" Light Industrial
property. Ms. Stachowiak stated that there is a rather large area of green
space and that it is all one parcel according to the City Assessor's map.
Ms. Foster inquired about whether or not the property was meant to be
rental or owned. Ms. Stachowiak stated that the property was meant for
rental.
Mr. Chris VanMourik, resident of 8708 Talbot Drive, stated that there is
vacant land to the right of the parcel and residential homes to the left of
the parcel. This would be a good buffer zone for this area. There are
railroad tracks located at the back side of the property.
Ms. Foster inquired about the garage design and how set the applicant
was with having the garage in the front. She was not sure if it was
possible to have the garages placed on the side so they would not be
facing the street. Mr. VanMourik stated that on the plan it was scaled
back after the previous plan showed the garages protruding farther than
what it currently was. The lot is too narrow to place the garage on the
side.
Seeing no one else wishing to speak on this matter, Mr. Frederick referred
Z-11-2003 to the Zoning and Ordinance Committee, tentatively scheduled
to meet at 5:30 p.m. on November 18, 2003, prior to the next Planning
Board meeting.
B. Z-12-2003, 1700 Beal Avenue, "F" Commercial District to "C"
Residential District
This is a request by Tomas Brown and Chris O'Leary of Capitol Invest
LLC, to rezone the property at 1700 Beal Avenue, more specifically
described as:
North 36 Feet of East 90 Feet, Lot 1, Block 11, Park Place, City of
Lansing, Ingham County, Michigan
from "F" Commercial District to "C" Residential District. The purpose of
this request is to bring the zoning of the property into conformance with its
residential use.
Ms. Stachowiak gave a brief overview.
Mr. Ruge inquired about the number of units. Ms. Stachowiak stated two
units and that "C" Residential District permits up to two units.
Ms. Foster inquired about the property and if the Master Plan called for the
property to be "F" Commercial. Ms. Stachowiak stated that the Master
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES November 5, 2003 Page 3
Plan called for the property to be residential, and that the existing zoning
is in conflict with the Master Plan. The proposed zoning would be
compatible with the Master Plan.
Mr. Tomas Brown, resident of 4580Hawk Hollow Drive, Bath, stated
that he is the seller of the property. He and his partner have owned the
property since 1995 and were unaware that the property was zoned "F"
Commercial. There are currently two qualified buyers for the property,
one of which would be an owner-occupied resident of the property. He did
not understand why the property was zoned commercial as there is
nothing surrounding the property that is commercial. Because of the lot
size and parking situation, the property is not feasible for anything
commercial. He believes that the property would definitely be improved
with the ownership and that it would be better for the community.
He inquired about obtaining a letter from the Board regarding the finance
processing for the future owner. He stated that the future owner needed a
letter from the Board stating that if the property were to burn, he would be
able to rebuild as residential. Ms. Stachowiak stated that until such time
as a rezoning is approved or disapproved, she cannot provide a letter as
she cannot guarantee that the request would be approved. She stated
that she could give a standard letter for nonconforming properties but
does not believe that this would make it past the lender.
Seeing no one else wishing to speak on this matter, Mr. Frederick referred
Z-12-2003 to the Zoning and Ordinance Committee, tentatively scheduled
to meet at 5:30 p.m. on November 18, 2003, prior to the next Planning
Board meeting.
C. Z-13-2003, 916 & 930 E. Mt. Hope Avenue, "D-1" Professional Office &
"J" Parking District to "F" Commercial District
This is a request by Kin T. Cheng to rezone the properties at 916 & 930 E.
Mt. Hope Avenue, more specifically described as:
916 E. Mt. Hope: PART OF LOTS 19, 20, 21, 32, 33 & 34, COM NE COR
LOT21, THW98FT, S 130FT, E 16FT, S53FT, E 100FT, N53FT, W
18 FT, N 130 FT TO BEG; HOLLYWOOD SUB, CITY OF LANSING,
INGHAM COUNTY, MICHIGAN
930 E. Mt Hope: LOTS 22, 23, 24 & 25 ALSO N 10 FT OF LOTS 34 &
35 HOLLYWOOD SUB, CITY OF LANSING, INGHAM COUNTY,
MICHIGAN
from "D-1" Professional Office & "J" Parking Districts to "F" Commercial
District. If approved, the applicant intends to continue utilizing the existing
building at 916 E. Mt. Hope Avenue as a hair salon and to utilize the
existing building at 930 E. Mt. Hope for a Chinese Take-Out Restaurant
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES November 5, 2003 Page 4
Ms. Stachowiak gave a brief overview.
Ms. Cordill inquired about the nail salon building being a part of the
proposal. Ms. Stachowiak stated that the applicant owns the property and
that their proposal is to rezone the property to bring its current use into
compliance with the Zoning Ordinance.
Ms. Stachowiak stated that the nail salon is currently nonconforming
because it is located in an office district and this proposal would allow its
continued use.
The hair salon directly west of the property is not a part of the proposal.
Ms. Foster inquired about the current buildings being demolished and a
new building being constructed. Ms. Stachowiak stated there would be the
potential for this situation.
Mr. Frederick inquired about the history of the property and if it could be
reviewed and reported to the Zoning and Ordinance Committee. Ms.
Stachowiak stated that she would look into the matter. The most recent
history with the building was the possibility of a clinic moving to this
location. Parking on the site was limited, and a daycare center was next
door. Ingham County decided that this was not the best location for the
clinic and relocated to another area.
Mr. Frederick stated that there was an issue with the property immediately
to the west or maybe the corner property had an issue with the sign. Ms.
Stachowiak stated that she would look into the matter.
Mr. Chia Cheng, resident of 2721 Norwich Road, stated that he would
like to utilize the corner building (930 E. Mt. Hope), change the facade,
clean up the parking lot, do some landscaping, and make it a Chinese
take-out facility. Nothing will be done to the property located at 916 E. Mt.
Hope.
Mr. Joe Gentilozzi, resident of 5418 Delta River Drive, stated that he
represents the seller of the property. The property has been vacant for
many years and that it was a blood collection center for Drs. Maldanado
and Kaitley who now have Laboratory Corporation of America and a few
other companies on the south side of town. He has marketed the property
for numerous years for the two doctors and eventually a user came along
to purchase the property. The business plan for the user went south only
weeks after the closing. The property does need reposition and has
become a real eye sore on the corner. The Board has support from the
current owner to proceed with the proposal and if anything can be done,
the applicant is accessible. Ms. Stachowiak knows how to reach him, if
necessary. He would appreciate any support from the Board.
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES November 5, 2003 Page 5
Seeing no one else wishing to speak on this matter, Mr. Frederick referred
Z-13-2003 to the Zoning and Ordinance Committee, tentatively scheduled
to meet at 5:30 p.m. on November 18, 2003, prior to the next Planning
Board meeting.
5. COMMENTS FROM THE AUDIENCE (5 minutes each)
Seeing no one else wishing to address the Board, Mr. Frederick closed the public
comment period.
6. RECESS was not taken by the Board.
7. BUSINESS SESSION
A. Minutes for Approval — October 7, 2003
Mr. McConnell moved; seconded by Ms. Cordill to approve the minutes of
October 7, 2003 without corrections. On a voice vote, the motion carried
unanimously (6-0). The minutes of October 7, 2003 were
APPROVED.
B. Committee Reports
1. ZONING AND ORDINANCE COMMITTEE, Mr. Ruge, Chair
Ms. Stachowiak stated that Mr. Frederick will not be able to attend
this meeting and asked if someone else could attend in his
absence. Ms. Keene stated that she would need to check her
calendar. Mr. McConnell stated that he has another commitment.
Ms. Cordill was not sure. Ms. Keene stated that she may be able to
attend.
Next meeting, Tuesday, November 18, 2003, at 5:30 p.m.
124 W. Michigan Ave., City Council Conference Room.
2. URBAN DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE, Ms. Keene, Chair
Next meeting, Tuesday, November 25, 2003, at 4:00 p.m.
316 N. Capitol Ave., Department Conference Room.
3. COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE - None.
4. EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE - None.
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES November 5, 2003 Page 6
C. Report from Planning Manager- None.
D. Pending Items: Future action required
1. Zoning and Ordinance Committee
a. Z-1-1998, 1223 N.Turner St.,"H"Light Industrial District to"G-1" Business
District(Tabled February 11, 1998)
b. Z-5-1998,401-407 E. Grand River,"F"Commercial District to"G-1" Business
District(Tabled June 10, 1998)
C. PRD-2-2001,"Crystal Woods", Planned Residential Neighborhood (Tabled
August 15,2001)
d. SLU-8-2001, 3000 W. Miller Road,Additional Parking for an Existing Church
(Tabled November 14, 2001)
e. SLU-3-2002,2710 N. Grand River Ave., Church in the"F"Commercial District&
"J"Parking District(Tabled May 15, 2002)
2. Urban Development Committee
a. Act-9-2000,201 E. Grand River Avenue, Proj. Sign Over ROW (Tabled
June 27,2000)
b. Capital Improvements Program(CIP), (Tabled March 25,2003)
C. Master Plan Project
d. Act-1-2003, SE Corner Michigan &Washington, Lot 3, Block 111, Orig Plat,
Vacate Alley(part)(Tabled on April 29, 2003)
e. Act-3-2003, Hazel St.W of Cedar, Close intersection with Cedar(Tabled on
April 29,2003)
3. Committee of the Whole
4. Planning Board
5. Board Member Code Enforcement Notification Reports
a. Teen Challenge-wood privacy fence(May 20,2003)
b. Dollar Store-Willow Street&MLK Blvd.- landscaping &buffering (May 20,
2003)
C. Grovenburg property-dumpster in ROW (July 1,2003)
d. Padnos Iron&Metal-scraps piled 2-3 time the height of the fence(July 15,
2003)
e. No street signs at intersection east of Washington and Miller(July 15,2003)
f. Jolly&Waverly Roads-tree trimming business (August 5,2003)
g. 4831 Eastlawn Drive-huge garage (August 19, 2003)
h. Cedar and Oakland Streets-new street signs(September 3,2003)
i. Pryor's Towing-time frame for completion of conditions(September 3,2003)
j. SE Corner of N. Grand River Ave. &Sadie Ct.- trash everywhere&dumpsters
have not been emptied (September 3, 2003)
k. Super Wheel Auto Sales-S. Cedar Street, South of Mt. Hope- heavy equipment
taken off dirt&placed in parking area over gas easement(September 10,2003)
I. Across from Cleveland Street& N. Grand River Avenue-tanks being stored
(September 10, 2003)
M. Grand River-weird truck(September 10,2003)
n. 1100 block of Genesee,garage foundation deteriorating/outer shell never built
(September 16,2003)
Ms. Stachowiak provided the Board members with copies of emails
that address most of the complaints on the list.
She stated that item 5d was not found in violation even though it is
a real eye sore.
With Item 5e, there is a street sign at Washington and Miller. Ms.
Stachowiak stated that if this is the wrong location, please let the
Planning Office know so that it can be reviewed more carefully.
Ms. Cordill explained that when she was looking for another
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES November 5, 2003 Page 7
property just west of this location, she did not see a street sign.
Ms. Stachowiak stated this item can be reviewed again.
Ms. Stachowiak stated that item 5f is in progress.
She stated that with item 5g, she and two building inspectors have
gone to the location and cannot find the garage. Mr. Frederick
stated that the garage is located at East Lawn and gave detailed
directions. Ms. Stachowiak stated that she would recheck the
location.
With item 5h, she stated that new signs have been ordered and that
the new signs should be going up soon.
With item 5j, she stated that the notice has been issued. She was
at the location this afternoon and she stated that the owner has
started cleaning up the property. It is looking better.
With item 51, she stated that this in the process of being corrected.
Currently, it looks much better.
With item 5m, she stated that this was addressed by a Code
Compliance officer. Mr. Frederick commented that this particular
truck is a very nice antique from the 1940s and that it has not been
moved in years. Ms. Stachowiak stated that as of Friday, all of the
Code Compliance officers will be changing areas. Someone new
will be in this area next week and she will have them check into the
matter.
With item 5n, she stated that this has been addressed and no
action can be taken at this time.
Ms. Cordill inquired about the size of a street sign at intersections.
Ms. Stachowiak stated that she will look into the matter.
Ms. Stachowiak stated that under the Zoning and Ordinance
Committee, the first three tabled items (a,b and c) will be withdrawn
from the pending list.
8. NEW BUSINESS
A. Election of Officers
Mr. Frederick opened the floor for nominations.
Ms. Foster made a motion, seconded by Mr. McConnell to recommend re-
election of Mr. Frederick as Chairman.
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES November 5, 2003 Page 8
Mr. Frederick stated that he has been Chairman for a little more than two
years and that the Planning Board's informal policy is that the
Chairperson's seat, after two years, should be passed along to allow
someone else to have the opportunity.
Mr. Ruge made a motion, seconded by Ms. Keene to recommend Ms.
Foster for Chairperson.
On a voice vote, the motions were tied (3-3). Ms. Foster accepted the
position of Chairperson.
Mr. Ruge made a motion, seconded by Ms. Keene to recommend Ms.
Cordill for Vice Chairperson. On a voice vote, the motion carried
unanimously (6-0).
9. COMMENTS FROM CHAIRPERSON
Mr. Frederick thanked the Board members for their indulgence the last two years
and stated that he enjoyed it. He is happy to pass the opportunity on to Ms.
Foster. He congratulated both Ms. Foster and Ms. Cordill on their new positions.
10. COMMENTS FROM BOARD MEMBERS
Ms. Cordill inquired about new members. Ms. Stachowiak stated that the new
members who have come on board are on the Board of Zoning Appeals. There
have been difficulties because the Planning Board requires more commitment.
Ms. Foster inquired about what positions were left to be filled. Mr. Frederick
stated that there should be eight Board members. Mr. Ruge inquired about
which Ward was short members.
Mr. Ruge inquired about an updated phone list of the Planning Department. Ms.
Stachowiak stated that she will take care of the matter.
Mr. Ruge brought up the issue of garages with attached houses like the
proposed request. He stated that there are cities that have outlawed these and
have made it to where these garages do not meet code requirements. All that
needs to be done is to say that the garage cannot be in front of the front of the
house or state that it has to be a certain distance behind the house. This would
be a valuable change to the City's ordinances. Ms. Foster inquired about the
change and if it would be easy to make the change to the garages. Ms.
Stachowiak stated that it would be an easy change. Ms. Keene inquired about
how it would work. Ms. Stachowiak stated that having this change pass through
City Council would be more difficult. The drafting of the language would be easy
and it would be a redraft of the ordinance. Ms. Keene inquired about which
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES November 5, 2003 Page 9
Committee would receive the draft. Ms. Stachowiak stated that Zoning and
Ordinance Committee would address the issue at the next meeting.
11. BOARD MEMBER CODE ENFORCEMENT NOTIFICATION REPORTS
Mr. Ruge stated that there is a new party store/grocery store at the corner of
Lathrop Street and Michigan Avenue. The Sign Inspector needs to pay them a
visit and explain the City's rules regarding the sign. He stated that there are little
signs (i.e. pop) all over the place on the outside of the building.
Mr. Ruge stated that the Board rezoned Neogen's grey house on North
Pennsylvania and that the zoning does not allow front yard parking. Ms.
Stachowiak stated that Neogen may have been ticketed once for parking and
that she will have someone look into the matter.
Mr. Frederick stated that there were new sign poles at Keeps Party Store. Ms.
Stachowiak stated that she did speak to the Sign Inspector about the issue. She
will look into the matter.
12. ADJOURNMENT - Meeting was adjourned at 7:50 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
James A. Ruff, Secretary, Planning Board
PB Minutes.1 10503.doc
Approved as written 11-5-03 Draft to Clerk October 22,2003
Approved November 5,2003
To Clerk November 6,2003
Minutes of the Regular Meeting
LANSING PLANNING BOARD
7:00 p.m., Tenth Floor, Council Chambers
Lansing City Hall
Tuesday, October 7, 2003
1. OPENING SESSION
The meeting was called to order at 7:00 p.m. by Chairman Frederick.
E3 �1
A. Roll call: Present: Frederick, Keene, Cordill, McConnell.
B. Staff Attending: Rieske, Witherspoon.
C. Excused absences: Foster, Ruge.
Ms. Keene made a motion, seconded by Ms. Cordill to approve an excused
absence request for Ms. Foster. On a voice vote, the motion carried
unanimously (3-0).
Ms. Keene made a motion, seconded by Ms. Cordill to approve an excused
absence request for Mr. Ruge. On a voice vote, the motion carried unanimously
(3-0).
Mr. Frederick stated for the record that Mr. McConnell has arrived after roll was
taken and that he will be present for the duration of the meeting.
2. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Ms. Cordill made a motion, seconded by Ms. Keene to approve the agenda.
On a voice vote, the motion carried unanimously (4-0).
3. COMMUNICATIONS
A. Letter of support from Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC)
B. Letter of support from the Lansing Eastside Community Development
Corporation (LECDC)
4. HEARINGS
A. FY 2005 Consolidated Strategy and Plan Submission (CSPS)
The purpose for this hearing is to provide an opportunity for citizens to
express preferences for the use of Federal funds to address housing and
priority non-housing community development needs for the City in
preparation of the City's Consolidated Strategy and Plan Submission
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES October 7, 2003 Page 2
(CSPS) for FY 2005. The City expects to receive $3.8 million in new
funding through the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG),
HOME, and Emergency Shelter Grant (ESG) programs during the next
fiscal year commencing on July 1, 2004 and ending on June 30, 2005.
Ms. Beverly Wiener, representative of Haven House, stated that Haven
House is a shelter for homeless families serving the Greater Lansing area
and are a part of the Greater Lansing Homeless Resolution Network.
Haven House received an ESG grant last year just under $11,000.00. She
stated that it was helpful and that Haven House was very thankful. The
funds were used for operating costs of the shelter, utilities and
maintenance costs. Haven House serves approximately 100 families each
year, including 275 children. Haven House ensures the children attend
school and there is special programming for them. Haven House works
closely with the families on goal setting, job searches, housing, referrals
for medical and legal assistance, family problems and needs, help families
obtain clothing and shoes, or whatever the family needs.
People come to Haven House after they have exhausted their options.
Sometimes families have had a change of income, have been evicted,
have had their housing condemned, or have had a family breakup that
leaves part of the family (usually mom and kids) without a place to go.
Occasionally, there is a fire that leaves a family homeless. Everyone's
story is a little different, and these are the general categories of the people
Haven House serves. Average stay is approximately one month. Some
people stay a few days while others need several months.
Whatever the needs are, Haven House tries to address them. Haven
House works on budgeting and money management issues, and makes
sure that if the people rent, their rent is manageable. Some of the people
are spending 50% or more of their money for rent and utilities. Haven
House does its best to talk to families about budgeting, and has been able
to work with some of the families after they have left the shelter. Haven
House continues to give them a hand up and encourages them to stay on
track, keep their housing and keep their job if they lose transportation or
child care. Haven House wants the families to stay in housing so the kids
can remain in school and have stability. This is Haven House's goal so the
families do not return.
She stated that Haven House really appreciates the support received from
the City. Haven House works closely with the other shelters in identifying
the needs in the community.
Mr. John Taylor, representative of Greater Lansing Homeless
Resolution Network (GLHRN), stated that twenty-one agencies make up
the network and Haven House is a part of it. The ESG funds do help the
agencies. The state of the homelessness in Lansing is approximately 400
to 500 people on any given day, with 39% being individuals or families with
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES October 7, 2003 Page 3
children. Approximately 530 individuals on a daily basis will request
assistance, of which 425 individuals will be assisted. Of those requesting
assistance, an average of 79% to 80% are helped in some way on a daily
basis. This summer in July, a homeless street count was taken to find out
how many undocumented, unsheltered homeless people were on the
street. It was done on the same day as the Point in Time count. There
were 227 individuals assisted, 147 individuals and families with children,
and 87 individuals who were counted as unsheltered homeless on the
City's streets. At that time, there were 460 individuals who were
homeless, of which 373 received some type of assistance. Of the
individuals represented by the average case load of new in-takes during
the second quarter, 76% were children with 4% being unaccompanied
minors who had no parental support. Of these averages, 53% were
females, 32% were from single parent households, and 17% were victims
of domestic violence. These statistics are available for the Board's use.
He stated that the shelters are doing a good job, and without the help of
the ESG funds, the City could not have the high assistance rate which it
currently has. The GLHRN are working together to end homelessness
with the realization that this is a goal but is not easily obtainable. The
GLHRN is targeting this and wanted the Board to be aware of what has
been done this past year.
Ms. Patty Jongkind, Chairperson of the Greater Lansing Homeless
Resolution Network (GLHRN) and Director of Ballentine Stepping
Stones, stated that she represents all the shelters and transitional
programs that receive funding, and that Ballentine Stepping Stones is a
transitional housing program with supportive services for homeless single
mothers with children. There are 16 families served at any one time, and
they reside in one location, each with their own apartment. The case
management services are on site. Groups are offered during the week.
Ballentine's goal is to help mothers stabilize themselves and their families,
and move on to permanent housing after they have received services.
The typical stay is approximately 11.5 months averaged over the last 9
years. Many mothers do stay for 24 months which is the maximum stay.
Ballentine Stepping Stones really appreciates the help it receives from the
City. Last year Ballentine received $6,600.00 which was used for utilities
and insurance costs. Ballentine is always in need of a little assistance,
and is grateful for their program and the network. She thanked the Board
for their support.
Ms. Susan Cancro, Co-Chairperson for the Greater Lansing Homeless
Resolution Network (GLHRN), Co-Chairperson of the Michigan
Coalition Against Homelessness (MCAH), and Executive Director of
Advent House Ministries located at 743 N. Martin Luther King, stated
that Advent House served over 1,800 people of which 1,600 came through
the weekend day shelter program. Not all the people were homeless.
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES October 7, 2003 Page 4
When the shelter saw increases in traffic in the weekend day shelter,
within 3 months there were increases in shelter use. The day shelter
serves people who are at risk who need help with meals and a place to
stay during the day. The shelter serves homeless and non-homeless
people in this program. The ESG funding goes towards the Transitional
Housing Shelter Home Program. This program assists 3 families at one
time and can generally help 4 to 5 families during the year. Recently, the
families have been staying longer. With this program, the shelter receives
$8,200.00 in ESG funds to help keep the houses going. The people who
are in these homes need more than just a house. They need stable
employment and reasonable rent costs in areas where they seek to find
permanent housing. These are problems for the people in the community
and cause many people to stay in shelters longer than necessary.
She stated that Advent House runs a program called Good Work, which
helps homeless people to find employment. Advent House sees the
problems that people face with keeping employment, which may be
personal problems, but then also to find decent employment which is a
reflection of the economy. These are issues that occur state wide. The
fact that homelessness is such an invisible issue is a compliment to the
work that shelters do. The shelters help people to find places to stay so
that they are not living on the streets. This is something that can only be
done with the assistance of local polities (i.e. cities & towns where shelters
are located). What is done in the City of Lansing is extremely important to
the shelters. Without the City's help, the shelters would not be able to do
what they do. It is not just the amount of money received. The money has
been a reliable resource for the shelters over the years and it is easy for
the shelters to work with the City. The City works with the shelters in a
manageable way that recognizes the situations that the shelters face. The
City does not create processes that are barriers for the shelters. The City
holds the shelter accountable and she appreciated it. This is a good
balance of responsibility to the community and assistance to the shelter.
Advent House could not do what it does without the help of the City and
other communities. Many religious communities contribute to the shelter's
work. Advent House is a faith-based organization. Many of the programs
in the GLHRN are faith-based and some are not. All of the organizations
work together as partners with the City. She thanked the Board for their
support.
Mr. Jamie Gakai, representative of the Local Initiative Support
Corporation (LISC), stated that he is an assistant program officer with the
Lansing office. LISC is a national non-profit based out of New York City
offering various support, resources, and financial technical assistance to
community development corporations around the country and here is
Lansing. Since 1989, LISC has been working with the City of Lansing in
the area's 10 Community Development Corporations (CDCs) on housing
development projects for low and moderate level income residents,
economic development projects in three of the City's commercial corridors,
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES October 7, 2003 Page 5
and various community organizing endeavors throughout the City's
neighborhoods. During this time, LISC has granted nearly $1.4 million and
loaned over $2.4 million to those CDCs. In addition to over $20 million
leveraged from private and other public funding sources on a local, state,
and federal level would not have been possible without the City's support.
LISC has provided endless hours of technical assistance from local staff in
Lansing and national experts from around the country. All of these efforts
have led to the development of over 500 affordably priced housing units,
over a half million square feet of commercial space redeveloped, and well
over 300 new jobs created for the Lansing area. The endeavors of LISC
and the local area CDCs have caused a dramatically increase in concrete
results with more families owning their homes, new businesses and new
business owners, hundreds of new jobs, revitalized neighborhoods, and in
the end a revitalized city. This would not have been possible without the
Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) fund and the endless
support from the Board and the City. He thanked the Board for their past
support and their continued support for revitalization of the Lansing area
neighborhoods.
Ms. Priscilla Holmes, Program Manager for Reo Town, stated that Reo
Town is one of the CDCs that was referred to earlier and has been
fortunate to receive support from the City of Lansing this year. Reo Town
has strong support from LISC. LISC provides funds for staff and are
currently donating Reo Town's office space. She did submit a request in
writing but it may have been too late to have it placed in the Planning
Board packet. Reo Town has been most fortunate. There is a Cadillac
Plant within the boundaries, and the Elm Street bridge is open. Thanks to
the City, the streets were paved in September of this year.
Reo Town was formed in 2001 and in May of 2003, received its 501(C)(3).
Preceding Reo Town, there were two other groups, Automotive National
Heritage Trail, River Pointe neighborhood and the Reo Town are on the
Automotive Heritage Trail. Additionally, there is a group of volunteers that
have been planning for the Reo Centennial 2004 for three years. There is
strong support from community groups and from the national park system.
She gave an invitation to the Board to visit South Washington because
everyday there are changes. Today, someone was working on what was
the bowling alley and it is being converted into an upscale lounge meeting
rooms with catering services. The Ricas building has been restored.
There is a lovely restaurant called the Dalmation Fire House Grill. Izzo's
Pub opened approximately two years ago and is a thriving business.
There has been a remarkable amount of private investments.
Reo Town successfully raised $33,000.00 to install a mural on the side of
the Quality Dairy building which is an artist rendering of the Reo
Administration building. When this is complete, the Board will be invited to
an unveiling of the mural. In raising the funds, none of the sources
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES October 7, 2003 Page 6
allowed administrative funds. Reo Town is functioning with one staff
person and no operational funds by April 2004. Reo Town has submitted
a request for operational funds and hopes that the Board will support the
request. All of the resources are going towards supporting the Reo
Centennial next July (2004). The goal was never to raise money at the
event. It was to have everyone visit from all over the country with their
Reo collector cars and have a good time on South Washington Avenue.
This would attract tourists from the mid-Michigan area. Reo Town has no
choice but to support the event and hopes that the Board will support
administrative and operational funds for the year.
Mr. Rick Kibbey, Lansing Eastside Community Development
Corporation (LECDC), stated that LECDC's mission is to work with
businesses and neighborhood associations to help create stronger, more
vibrant and walkable business quarter on Michigan Avenue. LECDC's
proposal is to have an office on Michigan Avenue, and has had generous
use of donated office space for 2 years from Allen Neighborhood Center.
Allen Neighborhood Center is growing and so is LECDC. LECDC has 3
staff members and 5 major committees that need to be housed in the
office space. LECDC is developing a major baseline data base and
operating a grant program for Michigan Avenue businesses. If someone
has driven down Michigan Avenue recently and seen the work (i.e.
landscaping, al fresco dining area) being done at the Theo's restaurant,
this is one of the nine projects that LECDC is currently handling. Once this
fund is depleted, LECDC will go back to the Capital Foundation and apply
for a renewal of the fund.
Last year, LECDC was granted $10,000.00 and had a 10 to 1 leverage.
He stated that he has worked with community groups for approximately 30
years and he believes that this group is on the edge of explosive growth.
He would like for LECDC to be prepared for this growth. LECDC has
submitted a proposal for $25,000.00, and has put together a plan for a
newsletter that will not only help businesses to communicate with each
other but also to help make folks be more aware of the type of rental
business opportunities that are on Michigan Avenue.
LECDC would like to turn Michigan Avenue into the welcoming gateway to
the community. He thanked the Board for their support.
Ms. Kate Koskinan, resident of 1409 Jerome Street, stated that she
worked with the Michigan Avenue project and has been the Administrator
for the grant facade program. She is frequently asked about available
funding for rental rehabilitation, and stated that it is currently not available
for Michigan Avenue. LECDC sees a need over the viable retail or
business spaces for rental rehab above businesses. Currently, there are
six units that are uninhabitable, and the owners are interested in a
partnership to help bring these units up to code and have them placed on
the rental market. Funding was not available by the time she was involved
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES October 7, 2003 Page 7
in this course of action last year and she is hoping that some money could
be put aside in rental rehabilitation for the Michigan Avenue quarter.
Ms. Cordill inquired about the spaces being commercial or residential. Ms.
Koskinan stated that the spaces are apartments and that they do not
qualify for the Michigan Avenue Projects Grant Program. This program is
only for commercial properties. She stated that she is trying to find a
funding source for the apartments.
Ms. Jean Lodge, Executive Director of Franklin Street Community
Housing Corporation (FSCHC), stated that FSCHC has the privilege of
being the oldest CDC in the Lansing area and that it has been around for
16 years. The FSCHC is currently involved with the Governor's Initiative
because of the Grand River Magnet School being located in the FSCHC
designated area. The FSCHC is trying to help with whatever it can in the
housing realm to stabilize the school district. The FSCHC administers a
very successful Individual Development Account (IDA) Program Financial
Literacy which matches monies with savings from the participants to help
them with down payment assistance, education or to start a small
business. Currently, there are 30 accounts of which 25 are used for
housing. The FSCHC is hoping to use these accounts to purchase the
houses that are being renovated in the area. The FSCHC's goal is to
continue to renovate the substandard housing to bring rental units back to
home ownership, revitalize neighborhoods and stabilize them as a safe
place for the residents. The FSCHC is very appreciative of the City's
support, funding, renovation work of the neighborhoods, and to be able to
sell the homes to low to moderate income people.
Ms. Linda Sutton, Old Town Main Street Program, stated that as one
listens to all the work that is being done in Lansing, how dare anyone say
that nothing is done. Lansing is a great community. Old Town is one of
the CDCs that was mentioned earlier that is supported by Local Initiative
Support Corporation (LISC), the City and National Historic Trust. Old
Town has had successes since 1996. Old Town only has commercial
properties, and houses Franklin Street Housing Corporation (FSHC). Old
Town has work with FSHC on several projects. This Saturday there will be
a paint blitz for one of the low income houses to help out the owner. Old
Town has gone from a 90% vacancy rate to a 90% occupancy rate. In
2002, there were 17 new businesses that opened and are still in existence.
These new businesses brought 249 jobs to the Old Town area. At the last
Census, Old Town went from low income to moderate income. One of the
homes in the district that was for sale two years ago went for
approximately $50,000.00. It was recently rehabilitated and sold for
$157,000.00. This says quite a bit for the work that happens in the
commercial district and how it affects the neighborhood districts. Old
Town will be submitting a proposal to the Board for the east end of the
district. Old Town's district extends to Pennsylvania Avenue. The Grand
River corridor is one of the Mayor's initiatives. In the section east of the
district, there are currently 19 vacant commercial spaces. This area also
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES October 7, 2003 Page 8
has the Grand River Magnet School. Old Town's proposal will be for
funding so that its services can be extended east. She believes that if Old
Town can have the same effect on the commercial district in the section of
Grand River Avenue and Turner Street, it will also affect housing and the
property values in this district. Old Town has appreciated all of the
partnerships that have gone into making Old Town a success, and she
hopes that the Board will see how much recognition Old Town has brought
to the City for that work that it has done. She stated that the Michigan
Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) had its state-wide Main
Street 101 training in Old Town on September 29, 2003, which Old Town
hosted a tour and were held up as an example for the rest of the state.
Old Town had also been referred to by the Governor as Lansing's hip cool
place, and with the Board's support Old Town will continue to make this
happen. She thanked the Board for their support.
5. COMMENTS FROM THE AUDIENCE (5 minutes each)
Seeing no one else wishing to address the Board, Mr. Frederick closed the public
comment period.
6. RECESS was not taken by the Board.
7. BUSINESS SESSION
A. Minutes for Approval — September 3, 2003
Ms. Keene moved; seconded by Mr. McConnell to approve the minutes of
September 3, 2003 without corrections. On a voice vote, the motion
carried unanimously (4-0). The minutes of September 3, 2003 were
APPROVED.
Minutes for Approval — September 16, 2003
Ms. Keene moved; seconded by Ms. Cordill to approve the minutes of
September 16, 2003 without corrections. On a voice vote, the motion
carried unanimously (4-0). The minutes of September 16, 2003 were
APPROVED.
B. Committee Reports
1. ZONING AND ORDINANCE COMMITTEE, Mr. Frederick
Mr. Rieske stated that Mr. Ruge is ill and that it may be a good idea
to appoint someone in his absence. Mr. Rieske stated that the
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES October 7, 2003 Page 9
action items will be the discussion of zoning amendments and
having them moved to the Public Hearing stage.
Next meeting, Wednesday, October 15, 2003, at 4:00 p.m.
316 N. Capitol Ave., Department Conference Room.
2. URBAN DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE, Ms. Keene, Chair
Next meeting, Tuesday, October 28, 2003, 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
Mr. Rieske gave a brief update on the Master Plan process. He stated
that funding is not available as it had been and that the activities are still
continuing that will lead to completion of the Master Plan. These attributes
include:
➢ A draft compendium of planning documents, ultimately containing
the current status of goals, objectives, policies, strategies.
➢ A draft Community Profile with updated demographic information.
➢ Data collection and analysis for "Community Government", an
interdepartmental effort to target neighborhoods for improvement.
➢ The Regional Growth Project, Regional 2025 Transportation Plan,
Wellhead Protection Program, regional Hazard Mitigation planning.
These projects have a three-fold importance:
1. development of regional plans, goals, & policies that benefit
Lansing
2. development of work products in regional plans that can be
used in Lansing's plan
3. lessons learned in these projects can improve Lansing's
master plan process
➢ Focus Area planning. Areas include:
Baker-Donora/Neighbors United in Action area, as an
outgrowth of the Community Government project,
Corridor improvements for the S. MLK, S. Cedar, and E.
Grand River corridors
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES October 7, 2003 Page 10
➢ A thematic survey of"second tier" auto heritage resources was
completed for the Automobile National Heritage Area (ANHA). Two
survey projects contemplated: a survey ANHA related
neighborhoods, and a survey of City properties.
➢ Staff training on urban design, with the goal of developing a
framework for an overall urban design plan.
D. Pending Items: Future action required
1. Zoning and Ordinance Committee
a. Z-1-1998, 1223 N.Turner St.,"H" Light Industrial District to"G-1"Business
District(Tabled February 11, 1998)
b. Z-5-1998,401-407 E. Grand River,"F"Commercial District to"G-1" Business
District(Tabled June 10, 1998)
C. PRD-2-2001,"Crystal Woods", Planned Residential Neighborhood (Tabled
August 15,2001)
d. SLU-8-2001, 3000 W. Miller Road,Additional Parking for an Existing Church
(Tabled November 14,2001)
e. SLU-3-2002,2710 N. Grand River Ave., Church in the"F"Commercial District&
"J"Parking District(Tabled May 15,2002)
2. Urban Development Committee
a. Act-9-2000,201 E. Grand River Avenue, Proj. Sign Over ROW(Tabled
June 27,2000)
b. Capital Improvements Program (CIP), (Tabled March 25,2003)
C. Master Plan Project
d. Act-1-2003, SE Corner Michigan&Washington, Lot 3, Block 111, Orig Plat,
Vacate Alley(part)(Tabled on April 29,2003)
e. Act-3-2003, Hazel St.W of Cedar, Close intersection with Cedar(Tabled on
April 29,2003)
3. Committee of the Whole
4. Planning Board
5. Board Member Code Enforcement Notification Reports
a. Teen Challenge-wood privacy fence(May 20,2003)
b. Dollar Store-Willow Street&MLK Blvd.-landscaping &buffering (May 20,
2003)
C. Grovenburg property-dumpster in ROW (July 1,2003)
d. Code requirements regarding lawns (July 1,2003)
e. Padnos Iron& Metal-scraps piled 2-3 time the height of the fence (July 15,
2003)
f. Wild Side Tatoo located on Pennsylvania Avenue-homemade sign (July 15,2003)
g. No street signs at intersection east of Washington and Miller(July 15,2003)
h. Jolly&Waverly Roads-tree trimming business(August 5,2003)
i. Next door to Bill Gill Cleaners-tree trimming business (August 5,2003
j. 4831 Eastlawn Drive-huge garage (August 19,2003)
8. NEW BUSINESS
A. Election of Officers
Mr. Frederick recommended that election of officers take place when all of
the Board members are present.
9. COMMENTS FROM CHAIRPERSON — None.
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES October 7, 2003 Page 11
10. COMMENTS FROM BOARD MEMBERS
Ms. Keene requested an excused absence from the October 21st Planning Board
meeting.
Ms. Cordill made a motion, seconded by Mr. McConnell to approve an excused
absence request for Ms. Keene. On a voice vote, the motion carried
unanimously (4-0).
11. BOARD MEMBER CODE ENFORCEMENT NOTIFICATION REPORTS
Mr. Rieske referred to the pending Board Member Code Enforcement Notification
items, and stated that Ms. Stachowiak informed him today that all these items are
in the process of being resolved. All of the items have been referred to the
appropriate agencies and enforcement measures are being taken.
Mr. McConnell stated that the time frame from which these items are mentioned,
enforcement action taken and then reported back to the Board members seems
to be a long time. He also stated that he has mentioned to Ms. Stachowiak about
the Board members receiving something showing the follow-up process is
completed (i.e. copy of a letter, phone call). He asked for more specific
communication between the Planning Office and the Board members. Mr.
Rieske stated that he would discuss the matter with Ms. Stachowiak and Ms.
Eleanor Love.
12. ADJOURNMENT - Meeting was adjourned at 8:05 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
James A. Ruff, Secretary, Planning Board
PB Minutes.I00703.doc
c-
w � FT
Draft to Clerk October 22,2003
Approved 2003
To Clerk 2003
Minutes of the Regular Meeting
i LANSING PLANNING BOARD
' 7:00 p.m., Tenth Floor, Council Chambers
L Lansing City Hall
Tuesday, October 7, 2003
1. OPENING SESSION
The meeting was called to order at 7:00 p.m. by Chairman Frederick.
A. Roll call: Present: Frederick, Keene, Cordill, McConnell.
B. Staff Attending: Rieske, Witherspoon.
C. Excused absences: Foster, Ruge.
Ms. Keene made a motion, seconded by Ms. Cordill to approve an excused
absence request for Ms. Foster. On a voice vote, the motion carried
unanimously (3-0).
Ms. Keene made a motion, seconded by Ms. Cordill to approve an excused
absence request for Mr. Ruge. On a voice vote, the motion carried unanimously
(3-0).
Mr. Frederick stated for the record that Mr. McConnell has arrived after role was
taken and that he will be present for the duration of the meeting.
2. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Ms. Cordill made a motion, seconded by Ms. Keene to approve the agenda.
On a voice vote, the motion carried unanimously (4-0).
3. COMMUNICATIONS
A. Letter of support from Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC)
B. Letter of support from the Lansing Eastside Community Development
Corporation (LECDC)
4. HEARINGS
A. FY 2005 Consolidated Strategy and Plan Submission (CSPS)
The purpose for this hearing is to provide an opportunity for citizens to
express preferences for the use of Federal funds to address housing and
priority non-housing community development needs for the City in
preparation of the City's Consolidated Strategy and Plan Submission
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES October 7, 2003 Page 2
(CSPS) for FY 2005. The City expects to receive $3.8 million in new
funding through the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG),
Woman Emergency Shelter Grant programs during the next fiscal year
commencing on July 1, 2004 and ending on June 30, 2005.
Ms. Beverly Wiener, representative of Haven House, stated that Haven
House is a shelter for homeless families serving the Greater Lansing area
and are a part of the Greater Lansing Homeless Resolution Network.
Haven House received an ESG grant last year just under $11,000.00. She
stated that it was helpful and that Haven House was very thankful. The
funds were used for operating costs of the shelter, utilities and
maintenance costs. Haven House serves approximately 100 families each
year. Of the 100 families, there were approximately 275 children that
Haven House served. Haven House ensures the children attend school
and there is special programming for them. Haven House works closely
with the families on goal setting, job searches, housing, referrals for
medical and legal assistance, family problems and needs, help families
obtain clothing and shoes, or whatever the family needs. People come to
Haven House after they have exhausted their options. Sometimes families
have had a change of income, have been evicted, have had their housing
condemned, or have had a family breakup that leaves part of the family
(usually mom and kids) without a place to go. Occasionally, there is a fire
that leaves a family homeless. Everyone's story is a little different, and
these are the general categories of the people Haven House serves.
Average stay is approximately one month. Some people stay a few days
while others need several months. Whatever the needs are, Haven House
tries to address them. Haven House works on budgeting and money
management issues, and makes sure that if the people rent, their rent is
manageable. Some of the people are spending 50% or more of their
money for rent and utilities. Haven House does its best to talk to families
about budgeting, and has been able to work with some of the families after
they have left the shelter. Haven House continues to give them a hand up
and encourages them to stay on track, keep their housing and keep their
job if they lose transportation or child care. Haven House wants the
families to stay in housing so the kids can remain in school and have
stability. This is Haven House's goal so the families do not return.
She stated that Haven House really appreciates the support received from
the City. Haven House works closely with the other shelters in identifying
the needs in the community.
Mr. John Taylor, representative of Greater Lansing Homeless
Resolution Network (GLHRN), stated that twenty-one agencies make up
the network and Haven House is a part of it. The ESG funds do help the
agencies. The state of the homelessness in Lansing is approximately 400
to 500 people on any given day, with 39% being individuals or families with
children. Approximately 530 individuals on a daily basis will request
assistance, of which 425 individuals will be assisted. Of those requesting
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES October 7, 2003 Page 3
assistance, the average is between 79% to 80% that are helped in some
way on a daily basis. This summer in July, a homeless street count was
taken to find out how many undocumented, unsheltered homeless people
were on the street. It was done on the same day as the Point in Time
count. There were 227 individuals who are assisted, 147 individuals and
families with children, and 87 individuals who were counted as unsheltered
homeless on the City's streets. At this time, there were 460 individuals
who were homeless, of which 373 received some type of assistance. Of
the individuals represented by the average case load of new in-takes
during the second quarter, 76% were children with 4% being
unaccompanied minors who had no parental support. Of these averages,
53% were females, 32% were from single parent households, and 17%
were victims of domestic violence. These statistics are available for the
Board's use.
He stated that the shelters are doing a good job, and without the help of
the ESG funds, the City could not have the high assistance rate which it
currently has. The GLHRN are working together to end homelessness
with the realization that this is a goal but is not easily obtainable. The
GLHRN is targeting this and wanted the Board to be aware of what has
been done this past year.
Ms. Patty Jongkind, Chairperson of the Greater Lansing Homeless
Resolution Network (GLHRN) and Director of Balentine Stepping
Stones, stated that she represents all the shelters and transitional
programs that receive funding, and that Balentine Stepping Stones is a
transitional housing program with supportive services for homeless single
mothers with children. There are 16 families served at any one time, and
they reside in one location, each with their own apartment. The case
management services are on site. Groups are offered during the week.
Balentine's goal is to help mothers stabilize themselves and their families,
and move on to permanent housing after they have received services.
The typical stay is approximately 11.5 months averaged over the last 9
years. Many mothers do stay for 24 months which is the maximum stay.
Balentine Stepping Stones really appreciates the help it receives from the
City. Last year Balentine received $6,600.00 which was used for utilities
and insurance costs. Balentine is always in need of a little assistance, and
is greatful for their program and the network. She thanked the Board for
their support.
Ms. Susan Cancro, Co-Chairperson for the Greater Lansing Homeless
Resolution Network (GLHRN), Co-Chairperson of the Michigan
Coalition Against Homelessness (MCAH), and Executive Director of
Advent House Ministries located at 743 N. Martin Luther King, stated
that Advent House served over 1,800 people of which 1,600 came through
the weekend day shelter program. Not all the people were homeless.
When the shelter saw increases in traffic in the weekend day shelter,
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES October 7, 2003 Page 4
within 3 months there were increases in shelter use. The day shelter
serves people who are at risk who need help with meals and a place to
stay during the day. The shelter serves homeless and non-homeless
people in this program. The ESG funding goes towards the Transitional
Housing Shelter Home Program. This program assists 3 families at one
time and can generally help 4 to 5 families during the year. Recently, the
families have been staying longer. With this program, the shelter receives
$8,200.00 in ESG funds to help keep the houses going. The people who
are in these homes need more than just a house. They need stable
employment and reasonable rent costs in areas where they seek to find
permanent housing. These are problems for the people in the community
and cause many people to stay in shelters longer than necessary.
She stated that Advent House runs a program called Good Work, which
helps homeless people to find employment. Advent House sees the
problems that people face with keeping employment, which may be
personal problems, but then also to find decent employment which is a
reflection of the economy. These are issues that occur state wide. The
fact that homelessness is such an invisible issue is a compliment to the
work that shelters do. The shelters help people to find places to stay so
that they are not living on the streets. This is something that can only be
done with the assistance of local polities (i.e. cities & towns where shelters
are located). What is done in the City of Lansing is extremely important to
the shelters. Without the City's help, the shelters would not be able to do
what they do. It is not just the amount of money received. The money has
been a reliable resource for the shelters over the years and it is easy for
the shelters to work with the City. The City works with the shelters in a
manageable way that recognizes the situations that the shelters face. The
City does not create processes that are barriers for the shelters. The City
holds the shelter accountable and she appreciated it. This is a good
balance of responsibility to the community and assistance to the shelter.
Haven House could not do what it does without the help of the City and
other communities. Many religious communities contribute to the shelter's
work. Haven House is a faith based organization. Many of the programs
in the GLHRN are faith based and some are not. All of the organizations
work together as partners with the City. She thanked the Board for their
support.
Mr. Jamie Gakai, representative of the Local Initiative Support
Corporation (LISC), stated that he is an assistant program officer with the
Lansing office. LISC is a national non-profit based out of New York City
offering various support, resources, and financial technical assistance to
community development corporations around the country and here is
Lansing. Since 1989, LISC has been working with the City of Lansing in
the area's 10 Community Development Corporations (CDCs) on housing
development projects for low and moderate level income residents,
economic development projects in 3 of the City's commercial corridors,
and various community organizing endeavors throughout the City's
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES October 7, 2003 Page 5
neighborhoods. During this time, LISC has granted nearly $1.4 million and
loaned over $2.4 million to those CDCs. In addition to over $20 million
leveraged from private and other public funding sources on a local, state,
and federal level would not have been possible without the City's support.
LISC has provided endless hours of technical assistance from local staff in
Lansing and national experts from around the country. All of these efforts
have led to the development of over 500 affordably priced housing units,
over a half million square feet of commercial space redeveloped, and well
over 300 new jobs created for the Lansing area. The endeavors of LISC
and the local area CDCs have caused a dramatically increase in concrete
results with more families owning their homes, new businesses and new
business owners, hundreds of new jobs, revitalized neighborhoods, and in
the end a revitalized city. This would not have been possible without the
Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) fund and the endless
support from the Board and the City. He thanked the Board for their past
support and their continued support for revitalization of the Lansing area
neighborhoods.
Ms. Priscilla Holmer, Program Manager for Reo Town, stated that Reo
Town is one of the CDCs that was referred to earlier and has been
fortunate to receive support from the City of Lansing this year. Reo Town
has strong support from LISC. LISC provides funds for staff and are
currently donating Reo Town's office space. She did submit a request in
writing but it may have been too late to have it placed in the Planning
Board packet. Reo Town has been most fortunate. There is a Cadillac
Plant within the boundaries, and the Elm Street bridge is open. Thanks to
the City, the streets were paved in September of this year. Reo Town was
formed in 2001 and in May of 2003, received its 501 C3. Preceding Reo
Town, there were two other groups, Automotive National Heritage Trail
River Pointe neighborhood and the Reo Town are on the Automotive
Heritage Trail. Additionally, there is a group of volunteers that have been
planning for the Reo Centennial 2004 for three years. There is strong
support from community groups and from the national park system. She
gave an invitation to the Board to visit South Washington because
everyday there are changes. Today, someone was working on what was
the bowling alley and it is being converted into an upscale lounge meeting
rooms with catering services. The Ricas building has been restored.
There is a lovely restaurant called the Dalmation Fire House Grill. Izzo's
Pub opened approximately 2 years ago and is a thriving business. There
has been a remarkable amount of private investments.
Reo Town successfully raised $33,000.00 to install a mural on the side of
the Quality Dairy building which is an artist rendering of the Reo
Administration building. When this is complete, the Board will be invited to
an unveiling of the mural. In raising the funds, none of the sources
allowed administrative funds. Reo Town is functioning with one staff
person and no operational funds by April 2004. Reo Town has submitted
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES October 7, 2003 Page 6
a request for operational funds and hopes that the Board will support the
request. All of the resources are going towards supporting the Reo
Centennial next July (2004). The goal was never to raise money at the
event. It was to have everyone visit from all over the country with their
Reo collector cars and have a good time on South Washington Avenue.
This would attract tourists from the mid-Michigan area. Reo Town has no
choice but to support the event and hopes that the Board will support
administrative and operational funds for the year.
Mr. Rick Kibbey, Lansing Eastside Community Development
Corporation (LECDC), stated that LECDC's mission is to work with
businesses and neighborhood associations to help create stronger, more
vibrant and walkable business quarter on Michigan Avenue. LECDC's
proposal is to have an office on Michigan Avenue, and has had generous
use of donated office space for 2 years from Allen Neighborhood Center.
Allen Neighborhood Center is growing and so is LECDC. LECDC has 3
staff members and 5 major committees that need to be housed in the
office space. LECDC is developing a major baseline data base and
operating a grant program for Michigan Avenue businesses. If someone
has driven down Michigan Avenue recently and seen the work (i.e.
landscaping, al fresco dining area) being done at the Theo's restaurant,
this is one of the nine projects that LECDC is currently handling. Once this
fund is depleted, LECDC will go back to the Capital Foundation and apply
for a renewal of the fund.
Last year, LECDC was granted $10,000.00 and had a 10 to 1 leverage.
He stated that he has worked with community groups for approximately 30
years and he believes that this group is on the edge of explosive growth.
He would like for LECDC to be prepared for this growth. LECDC has
submitted a proposal for $25,000.00, and has put together a plan for a
newsletter that will not only help businesses to communicate with each
other but also to help make folks be more aware of the type of rental
business opportunities that are on Michigan Avenue.
LECDC would like to turn Michigan Avenue into the welcoming gate way to
the community. He thanked the Board for their support.
Ms. Kate Koskinan, resident of 1409 Jerome Street, stated that she
worked with the Michigan Avenue project and has been the Administrator
for the grant facade program. She is frequently asked about available
funding for rental rehabilitation, and stated that it is currently not available
for Michigan Avenue. LECDC sees a need over the viable retail or
business spaces for rental rehab above businesses. Currently, there are 6
units that are uninhabitable, and the owners are interested in a partnership
to help bring these units up to code and have them placed on the rental
market. Funding was not available by the time she was involved in this
course of action last year and she is hoping that some money could be put
aside in rental rehabilitation for the Michigan Avenue quarter.
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES October 7, 2003 Page 7
Ms. Cordill inquired about the spaces being commercial or residential. Ms.
Koskinan stated that the spaces are apartments and that they do not
qualify for the Michigan Avenue Projects Grant Program. This program is
only for commercial properties. She stated that she is trying to find a
funding source for the apartments.
Ms. Jean Lodge, Executive Director of Franklin Street Community
Housing Corporation (FSCHC), stated that FSCHC has the privilege of
being the oldest CDC in the Lansing area and that it has been around for
16 years. The FSCHC is currently involved with the Governor's Initiative
because of the Grand River Magnet School being located in the FSCHC
designated area. The FSCHC is trying to help with whatever it can in the
housing realm to stabilize the school district. The FSCHC administers a
very successful Individual Development Account (IDA) Program Financial
Literacy which matches monies with savings from the participants to help
them with down payment assistance, education or to start a small
business. Currently, there are 30 accounts of which 25 are used for
housing. The FSCHC is hoping to use these accounts to purchase the
houses that are being renovated in the area. The FSCHC's goal is to
continue to renovate the substandard housing to bring rental units back to
home ownership, revitalize neighborhoods and stabilize them as a safe
place for the residents. The FSCHC is very appreciative of the City's
support, funding, renovation work of the neighborhoods, and to be able to
sell the homes to low to moderate income people.
Ms. Linda Sutton, Old Town Main Street Program, stated that as one
listens to all the work that is being done in Lansing, how dare anyone
say that nothing is done. Lansing is a great community. Old Town is one
of the CDCs that was mentioned earlier that is supported by Local Initiative
Support Corporation (LISC), the City and National Historic Trust. Old
Town has had successes since 1996. Old Town only has commercial
properties, and houses Franklin Street Housing Corporation (FSHC). Old
Town has work with FSHC on several projects. This Saturday there will be
a paint blitz for one of the low income houses to help out the owner. Old
Town has gone from a 90% vacancy rate to a 90% occupancy rate. In
2002, there were 17 new businesses that opened and are still in existence.
These new businesses brought 249 jobs to the Old Town area. At the last
Census, Old Town went from low income to moderate income. One of the
homes in the district that was for sale 2 years ago went for approximately
$50,000.00. It was recently rehabilitated and sold for$157,000.00. This
says quite a bit for the work that happens in the commercial district and
how it affects the neighborhood districts. Old Town will be submitting a
proposal to the Board for the east end of the district. Old Town's district
extends to Pennsylvania Avenue. The Grand River corridor is one of the
Mayor's initiatives. In the section east of the district, there are currently 19
vacant commercial spaces. This area also has the Grand River Magnet
School. Old Town's proposal will be for funding so that its services can be
extended east. She believes that if Old Town can have the same effect on
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES October 7, 2003 Page 8
the commercial district in the section of Grand River Avenue and Turner
Street, it will also affect housing and the property values in this district.
Old Town has appreciated all of the partnerships that have gone into
making Old Town a success, and she hopes that the Board will see how
much recognition Old Town has brought to the City for that work that it has
done. She stated that the Michigan Economic Development Corporation
(MEDC) had its state-wide Main Street 101 training in Old Town on
September 29, 2003, which Old Town hosted a tour and were held up as
an example for the rest of the state. Old Town had also been referred to
by the Governor as Lansing's hip cool place, and with the Board's support
Old Town will continue to make this happen. She thanked the Board for
their support.
5. COMMENTS FROM THE AUDIENCE (5 minutes each)
Seeing no one else wishing to address the Board, Mr. Frederick closed the public
comment period.
6. RECESS was not taken by the Board.
7. BUSINESS SESSION
A. Minutes for Approval — September 3, 2003
Ms. Keene moved; seconded by Mr. McConnell to approve the minutes of
September 3, 2003 without corrections. On a voice vote, the motion
carried unanimously (4-0). The minutes of September 3, 2003 were
APPROVED.
Minutes for Approval — September 16, 2003
Ms. Keene moved; seconded by Ms. Cordill to approve the minutes of
September 16, 2003 without corrections. On a voice vote, the motion
carried unanimously (4-0). The minutes of September 16, 2003 were
APPROVED.
B. Committee Reports
1. ZONING AND ORDINANCE COMMITTEE, Mr. Frederick
Mr. Rieske stated that Mr. Ruge is ill and that it may be a good idea
to appoint someone in his absence. Mr. Rieske stated that the
action items will be the discussion of Zoning Amendments and
having them moved to the Public Hearing stage.
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES October 7, 2003 Page 9
Next meeting, Wednesday, October 15, 2003, at 4:00 p.m.
316 N. Capitol Ave., Department Conference Room.
2. URBAN DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE, Ms. Keene, Chair
Next meeting, Tuesday, October 28, 2003, 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
Mr. Rieske gave a brief update on the Master Plan process. He stated
that funding is not available as it had been and that the activities are still
continuing that will lead to completion of the Master Plan.
D. Pending Items: Future action required
1. Zoning and Ordinance Committee
a. Z-1-1998, 1223 N.Turner St.,"H"Light Industrial District to"G-1" Business
District(Tabled February 11, 1998)
b. Z-5-1998,401-407 E. Grand River,"F"Commercial District to"G-1" Business
District(Tabled June 10, 1998)
C. PRD-2-2001,"Crystal Woods", Planned Residential Neighborhood (Tabled
August 15,2001)
d. SLU-8-2001, 3000 W. Miller Road,Additional Parking for an Existing Church
(Tabled November 14,2001)
e. SLU-3-2002, 2710 N. Grand River Ave., Church in the"F"Commercial District&
"J"Parking District(Tabled May 15, 2002)
2. Urban Development Committee
a. Act-9-2000,201 E. Grand River Avenue, Proj. Sign Over ROW (Tabled
June 27,2000)
b. Capital Improvements Program (CIP), (Tabled March 25,2003)
C. Master Plan Project
d. Act-1-2003, SE Corner Michigan &Washington, Lot 3, Block 111, Orig Plat,
Vacate Alley(part)(Tabled on April 29,2003)
e. Act-3-2003, Hazel St.W of Cedar, Close intersection with Cedar(Tabled on
April 29,2003)
3. Committee of the Whole
4. Planning Board
5. Board Member Code Enforcement Notification Reports
a. Teen Challenge-wood privacy fence(May 20,2003)
b. Dollar Store-Willow Street&MLK Blvd.-landscaping & buffering (May 20,
2003)
C. Grovenburg property-dumpster in ROW (July 1,2003)
d. Code requirements regarding lawns (July 1,2003)
e. Padnos Iron &Metal-scraps piled 2-3 time the height of the fence (July 15,
2003)
f. Wild Side Tatoo located on Pennsylvania Avenue-homemade sign (July 15,2003)
g. No street signs at intersection east of Washington and Miller(July 15,2003)
h. Jolly&Waverly Roads-tree trimming business(August 5,2003)
i. Next door to Bill Gill Cleaners-tree trimming business (August 5,2003
j. 4831 Eastlawn Drive-huge garage(August 19, 2003)
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES October 7, 2003 Page 10
8. NEW BUSINESS
A. Election of Officers
Mr. Frederick recommended that election of officers take place when all of
the Board members are present.
9. COMMENTS FROM CHAIRPERSON — None.
10. COMMENTS FROM BOARD MEMBERS
Ms. Keene requested an excused absence from the October 21 st Planning Board
meeting.
Ms. Cordill made a motion, seconded by Mr. McConnell to approve an excused
absence request for Ms. Keene. On a voice vote, the motion carried
unanimously (4-0).
11. BOARD MEMBER CODE ENFORCEMENT NOTIFICATION REPORTS
Mr. Rieske referred to the pending Board Member Code Enforcement Notification
items, and stated that Ms. Stachowiak informed him today that all these items are
in the process of being resolved. All of the items have been referred to the
appropriate agencies and enforcement measures are being taken.
Mr. McConnell stated that the time frame from which these items are mentioned,
enforcement action taken and then reported back to the Board members seems
to be a long time. He also stated that he has mentioned to Ms. Stachowiak about
the Board members receiving something showing the follow-up process is
completed (i.e. copy of a letter, phone call). He asked for more specific
communication between the Planning Office and the Board members. Mr.
Rieske stated that he would discuss the matter with Ms. Stachowiak and Ms.
Eleanor Love.
12. ADJOURNMENT - Meeting was adjourned at 8:05 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
James A. Ruff, Secretary, Planning Board
PB Minutes.100703.doc
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES October 19, 2004 Page 2
B. Committee Reports
1. ZONING AND ORDINANCE COMMITTEE, Mr. Ruge, Chair
a. LS-24-2004, 115-119 W. Grand River Avenue, Lot Split
This is a request by Greg & Marie Clark to divide the
property at 115-119 W. Grand River, resulting in the
following legal descriptions:
115 W. Grand River.A part of Lots 1,2,11&12 of Block 34,
Original Plat, City of Lansing, Ingham County, Michigan, the
boundary of said parcel being described as: Beginning at a
point 8 feet east of the northwest corner of said Lot 1; thence
south 132.05 feet to a point 8 feet east of the southwest
corner of said Lot 2, thence west along the south line of said
Lots 2 and 11 a distance of 37 feet, thence north 132.11 feet
to the north line of said Lot 12; thence east along said north
line and the north line of said Lot 1 a distance of 37 feet to
the point of beginning.
119 W. Grand River.A part of Lots 11&12 of Block 34,
Original Plat, City of Lansing, Ingham County, Michigan, the
boundary of said parcel being described as: Beginning on
the north line of said Lot 12, at a point 29 feet west of the
northeast corner of said Lot 12; thence south 132.11 feet to
the south line of said Lot 11; thence west along said south
line 53.86 feet, thence north, 132.14 feet to the north line of
said Lot 12; thence east along said north line 53.53 feet to
the point of beginning.
Section 1236.07(c) of the Zoning Ordinance requires a
minimum lot width of 60 feet for residential lots. In addition,
Section 1236.07(d) allows a maximum width to depth ratio
oft to 2.5 for residential lots. If approved, the resulting lot at
119 W. Grand River would have a width of 53.53 feet and
the resulting lot at 115 W. Grand River would have a width of
37 feet and a width to depth ratio of 1 to 3.56. Therefore,
variances from the design requirements of the subdivision
regulations are requested.
Staff recommended approval of LS-24-2004, 115-119 W.
Grand River Avenue, with the following conditions:
1. The structure at 115 W. Grand River be converted to
either 2 efficiency units or 1 single family unit;
2. Two parking spaces for 115 W. Grand River and 4
parking spaces for 119 W. Grand River be provided in
a location that is acceptable to the Planning Office;
3. An easement across the entire length of the driveway
be provided to ensure perpetual access to both lots.
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES October 19, 2004 Page 3
In Committee, the request was recommended for approval
with the following conditions:
1. The structure at 115 W. Grand River be converted to
either 2 efficiency units or 1 single family unit;
2. Two parking spaces for 115 W. Grand River and 4
parking spaces for 119 W. Grand River be provided in a
location that is acceptable to the Planning Office;
3. An easement across the entire length of the driveway
be provided to ensure perpetual access to both lots.
and the motion carried unanimously, (4-0).
Mr. Ruge made a motion, seconded by Mr. Frederick, to approve LS-24-2004, 115-119
W. Grand River Avenue, Lot Split.
Frederick . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ave Ruge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ave
Foster. . . Ave Keene . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ave
Czekai. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ave Hollister . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ave
On a roll call vote, there were: Ayes: 6; Nays: 0; carried; unanimous.
APPROVED.
b. LS-25-2004, 4804 Ballard Road, Lot Split
This is a request by Larry Yelinek, Trustee, Ballard Tyson
Trust, to divide the property at 4804 Ballard Road into 3
parcels, resulting in the following legal descriptions:
4804 Ballard Road: North 5 feet of Lot 7 and the
South 66 feet of Lot 8, Eco Farms
Vacant Parcel: North 73 feet of Lot 7, except the
north 5 feet thereof, Eco Farms
Vacant Parcel: South 68 feet of Lot 7, Eco Farms
Section 1236.07(d) allows a maximum width to depth ratio
of to 2.5 for residential lots. If approved, the resulting lot at
4804 Ballard Road would have a width to depth ratio of 1 to
4.29. Each of the vacant parcels would have a width to depth
ratio of 1 to 4.48. Therefore, variances from the design
requirements of the subdivision regulations are requested.
Staff recommended approval of LS-25-2004, 4804 Ballard
Road.
In Committee, the request was recommended for approval
and the motion carried unanimously, (4-0).
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES October 19, 2004 Page 4
Mr. Ruge made a motion, seconded by Mr. Frederick, to approve LS-25-2004, 4804
Ballard Road, Lot Split.
Frederick . . Ave Ruge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ave
Foster. . . Ave Keene . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ave
Czekai. . . . . . . . . . . ... . . . . . . . . . . Ave Hollister . . Ave
On a roll call vote, there were: Ayes: 6; Nays: 0; carried; unanimous.
APPROVED.
C. NCU-3-2004, 1000 River Street, Request for Class A
Nonconforming Status
This is a request by Heidi Spanburg for Class "A"
Nonconforming Status at 1000 River Street. The property is
nonconforming as it contains a single family residential
structure in the "H" Light Industrial Zoning District and does
not comply with the minimum front yard setback
requirement. The applicant proposes to make substantial
renovations to the home. This is, therefore, a request for
Class "A" Nonconforming status to permit the proposed
improvements at 1000 River Street.
Staff recommended approval of NCU-3-2004, 1000 River
Street, a request for Class A Nonconforming Status, with the
following conditions:
1. The drive and parking for two vehicles be surfaced in
accordance with the parking requirements of the
Zoning Ordinance;
2. The use of the house be limited to one dwelling unit;
3. The surfacing improvements be completed within six
months from the date of this approval;
4. Obtaining a special land use permit, if necessary, for
improvements in the flood plain.
In Committee, the request was recommended for approval
with the following conditions:
1. The drive and parking for two vehicles be surfaced
with porous material such as gravel, grasscrete or
brick pavers;
2. The use of the house be limited to one dwelling unit;
3. The surfacing improvements be completed within nine
months from the date of this approval;
4. Obtaining a special land use permit, if necessary, for
improvements in the flood plain;
and the motion carried unanimously, (4-0).
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES October 19, 2004 Page 5
Mr. Ruge made a motion, seconded by Mr. Frederick, to approve NCU-3-2004, 1000
River Street, Request for Class A Nonconforming Status.
Frederick . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ave Ruge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ave
Foster. . . Ave Keene . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ave
Czekai. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ave Hollister . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ave
On a roll call vote, there were: Ayes: 6; Nays: 0; carried; unanimous.
APPROVED.
d. Z-14-2004, 427 W. Ionia Street/222 N. Chestnut Street,
"DM-3" Residential District to "D-1" Professional Office
District
This is a request by the Michigan Community College
Association to rezone the northwest 66' x 63' of the property
at 427 W. Ionia/222 N. Chestnut Streets, more specifically
described as:
Lot 10 & the West 107 Feet of Lots 11 & 12, Block 93
Original Plat, City of Lansing, Ingham County,
Michigan
from "DM-3" Residential District to "D-1" Professional Office
District. The purpose of this request is to permit additional
parking for the Michigan Community College Association
located at 222 N. Chestnut Street.
Staff recommended approval of Z-14-2004, 427 W. Ionia
Street/222 N. Chestnut Street, "DM-3" Residential District to
"D-1" Professional Office District.
In Committee, the request was recommended for approval
and the motion carried unanimously, (4-0).
Mr. Czekai stated that Ms. Foster raised some concerns
about the diversity of the zoning on the block, and that he did
not see anything in the Planning Board minutes that
addressed her concerns. He asked Ms. Foster if she had
another conversation somewhere along the line that
alleviated some of those concerns because he has the same
concerns. Ms. Foster stated that the setbacks on this corner
lot allow very little to happen. The parking lot that is showing
is not something that can fit right now and the applicant
would have to completely fix it. For the current use her
biggest concern was how it was tying into the existing
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES October 19, 2004 Page 6
property. Knowing how little can be developed on the
corner, she stated that the corner will stay green for the most
part.
Ms. Foster stated that as to the diversity of the zoning, she
could not recall what some of the issues were. Mr. Czekai
stated the issues were with the residential and office uses,
and that it basically would be taking away some of the
residential use in this neighborhood. Ms. Stachowiak stated
that this parcel of land is too small for a home to be built on
and that Mr. Ruff made it clear to the Michigan Community
College Association (MCCA) when the old home was
demolished, that the MCCA would not be able to rebuild
another home on this site. The Downtown Neighborhood
Association (DNA) remembered Mr. Ruff saying that nothing
could be here on the site. She stated that Mr. Ruff said no
structure could be on this lot by itself because the lot is not
large enough to accommodate one and still meet setbacks.
When the property is tied in with the rest of the parcel, now it
becomes functional. In terms of the zoning, map 2 shows all
three corners at Chestnut and Ionia Streets zoned as "D-1"
Professional Office. This is the only corner zoned
residential. The surrounding properties to the south and
east that are owned by MCCA are also zoned as "D-1"
Professional. This zoning request would clean up a spot
zone situation. It makes the property obsolete to keep it in
its current designation. Ms. Foster stated that the idea was
to also continue to bring in residential into the City and that
this was a concern.
Mr. Czekai asked for clarification on the parking situation. In
the description, the applicant wanted to add additional
parking but Ms. Foster just mentioned that it would remain
green. Ms. Foster stated that there can be parking but there
is a 20 foot setback on either end. It allows just a tiny little
corner. On the sheet that was added, the dash line is the
only area that the applicant can really add to. The parking
lot that was drawn in really does not fit in there. All this
space would stay green. For the applicant to meet the code
requirements, there will be 20 feet of green space on the
corner. Hopefully some art or some benches will be added
to make that corner a really nice area.
Mr. Frederick stated that he also questioned the applicant
about the building before it was torn down and why the
building was not rehabilitated or maintained because of its
historical nature. The applicant considered it but the inside
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES October 19, 2004 Page 7
of the building was divided into a lot of little rooms. There
were 15 cooking ranges and a masonry wall that went down
the middle of the building. There was not much historical
character to the home to begin with and it was not in a
condition that would have allowed rehabilitating. The
applicant did not have a choice but to demolish the building.
Mr. Czekai read in the report that there was no response
form the Downtown Neighborhood Association (DNA). Ms.
Stachowiak stated that the staff report had not been updated
and that the President of the DNA, Ms. Monica Zuchowski,
did provide a response. It was a separate handout given to
the Board at a previous meeting and was included in this
packet.
Mr. Frederick stated that the landscape architect was asked
to provide the Board with some updated plans and drawings
for the prospective design on the parking lot. Ms.
Stachowiak stated that the applicant was asked to show the
existing structures on the property and the features of this
property. The applicant has shown the house owned by the
MCCA, the existing office building and parking lot, and the
drive off of Ionia Street. The applicant indicated in the fax
transmittal that the proposed parking lot has not been
updated to show how it would properly function. It is shown
by the dash line that the square at the southeast corner is
the area that could be used for parking. As Ms. Foster
mentioned earlier, everything outside of the box would
remain as green space. Essentially, vehicles would access
off Ionia Street. The applicant could get about 4 parking
spaces in here, back out into the driveway and then there
would be the existing parking south of this location
Ms. Swanson stated that she brought photographs to show
the site, if the Board would like to see them. Ms. Foster
stated that would be fine.
Mr. Tom Burkhall, President of the Michigan Community
College Association, reviewed the photographs. He stated
that the reason he would prefer the entrance is because
currently the MCCA has a hard time with the present parking
lot. The MCCA is right down the street from the
Transportation building and people use their parking lot. If
the entrance is relocated, there are mature trees that would
be removed and the MCCA would hate to lose them. This
parking area is for employees and the new parking area
would free up some spaces for guests. If parking is
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES October 19, 2004 Page 8
relocated, then it would not be such an obvious entrance.
This is the MCCA's plans. What he would like to see a very
nice bermed area with lots of shrubs, nice trees, and art
work. The MCCA would like to remove the picket fence and
have a nice area.
Mr. Czekai asked about the parking. Ms. Swanson
explained that the vehicles would come down the driveway
and park where the sand is. Mr. Burkhall stated that the
driveway was widened.
Ms. Foster asked about the driveway off of Chestnut and if it
would be closed and the curb would be restored. Mr.
Burkhall stated that it would be his preference to do this
because it would dress up the area. He would like to have a
nice green area here and stated that it would really be an
improvement on Chestnut Street. With the other driveway, it
would fit better into the residential character.
Ms. Foster asked once the curb cut and the driveway are
removed, adding a new one would become a bigger deal.
Ms. Stachowiak stated that it could be added in the future
and that it would be a terrific idea to remove it, curb it and fill
it in with grass. It would be a nice improvement to the area.
Mr. Burkhall stated that his tenants asked about the street
cracks from the heavy trucks that travel this area due to the
repairs to the Capitol Loop, and when these would be
repaired.
Mr. Ruge made a motion, seconded by Mr. Frederick, to approve Z-14-2004, 427 W.
Ionia Street/222 N. Chestnut Street, "DM-3" Residential District to "D-1"
Professional Office District.
Frederick . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ave Ruge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ave
Foster. . . Ave Keene . . . . . ....... ... . . . . . . . . . . . . Ave
Czekai. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Nay Hollister . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ave
On a roll call vote, there were: Ayes: 5; Nays: 1; carried;
APPROVED.
e. Ordinance Amendment - Parking Lot Standards
Mr. Ruge stated that the Committee made a motion to have
a public hearing on the Zoning Ordinance Amendment—
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES October 19, 2004 Page 9
Parking Lot Standards and it passed. Ms. Stachowiak
stated that she will try to set the public hearing for the
second meeting in November. If not, the hearing will be the
first meeting in December.
Next meeting, Wednesday, November 10, 2004 at 4 p.m.
316 N. Capitol Avenue, Department Conference Room
2. URBAN DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE, Ms. Keene, Vice Chair
Next meeting, Tuesday, October 26, 2004, 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
Mr. Rieske stated that he handed out some information regarding the
status of cases and that the Development and Planning Committee of City
Council will meet Thursday.
He stated that ACT-14-2003 will hopefully be resolved soon. He will be
meeting tomorrow with the Board of Water and Light to verify its
relationship with the power lines.
With ACT-12-2002 RiverTrail South, he stated that it was reviewed and
with it came the recommendation to acquire several pieces of property.
One will be coming up for acquisition.
With ACT-13-2002, RiverTrail Northwest, he stated that there are some
conservation easements to acquire that are being donated to the City and
are folded into the review that had taken place.
Mr. Rieske stated that a recommendation for Historic District Study
Committee for two buildings in the downtown area (Arbaugh's and Mutual
Buildings).
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES October 19, 2004 Page 10
1. MPA-1-2004, SE Corner of Saginaw and Marshall Streets,
Amendment to NE Area Comprehensive Plan
This is a request by the Lansing School District to amend the
Northeast Area Comprehensive Plan, adopted August 20, 1984,
and Boys Training School Property, Planning and Development
Study, adopted by the Lansing Planning Board on February 18,
1992 (a.k.a. "the BTS Plan"). The applicant is requesting that the
City of Lansing change the future land use designation of Parcel E,
located at the southeast corner of Saginaw and Marshall Streets
from residential development to institutional development. The
purpose of the amendment is to permit a new Pattengill Middle
School at this location.
The request is specifically to amend the Boys Training School
Study, specifically Parcel E, located at the southeast corner of
Saginaw and Marshall Streets) from residential development to
institutional development for the purpose of constructing a new
Pattengill Middle School.
The Boys Training School Advisory Implementation Committee, at
its meeting on April 28, 2004, voted unanimously to approve, with
conditions, the request from the Lansing School District to amend
the Master Plan. It was the consensus opinion of the BTS
Committee that the proposed development of the Lansing School
District will largely be compatible with surrounding uses in the area
as well as maintaining Pattengill Middle School on the Eastside.
Staff recommended approval of MPA-1-2004, SE Corner of
Saginaw and Marshall Streets, Amendment to NE Area
Comprehensive Plan.
In Committee, the request was recommended to be adopted, MPA-
1-04, the Boys Training Advisory Implementation Committee's
consensus recommendation to amend the Boys Training School
Property Planning and Development Study, March 1992 (which
amends the North-East Area Comprehensive Plan), as follows:
Amendment #1
Replace "residential development" with "institutional development"
in the Products Section (pg. 1-14) of the Boys Training School
Property Planning and Development Study, March 1992, and
whenever Parcel E is referenced throughout the document. Amend
the section regarding Parcel E on Page 1-14 to read as follows:
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES October 19, 2004 Page 11
"Parcel E would also be designated for re,�tial INSTITUTIONAL
development with a 50 foot-landscaped buffer along the west
property line of the residences along Clemens street. The
development of this parcel will require a storm water retention area.
The Consensus Plan proposes this area to occur in the current
open space directly adjacent to the southeast corner of Parcel E."
All sections, maps and narratives in existing plan shall be changed
to reflect the above amendment.
This amendment shall supercede all sections, maps, and narrative
contrary to or in conflict with this amendment.
The UDC further recommended adoption of the following additional
BTS Advisory Implementation Committee recommendations:
1. That traffic issues, including a traffic analysis on Marshall
Street be completed to evaluate the pedestrian and
vehicular traffic patterns and the effect traffic from the
development may have on adjacent property, particularly the
proposed new Pattengill Middle School and that traffic
calming or some other mechanisms are implemented to
address the traffic problems at Clemens/Fairview Streets. A
circulation plan be subject to final approval by the City
Transportation Engineer and Michigan Department of
Transportation as part of the site plan review process;
2. That the Lansing School District continue to work
cooperatively with Lansing Catholic Central to address their
needs for the safety of the students, particularly during
construction of the new Pattengill Middle school, including
entrances/exits to/from the institutions in the area;
3. That the flashing lights at Fairview/Saginaw be changed to a
"timed" light and consider changing the light at
Saginaw/Marshall to accommodate the increased of traffic
in the area;
4. That the institutional development be buffered from the
existing residential development, particularly for the parking
lot and specifically along Clemens street to the east. In
addition, parking be closely evaluated in the area since there
were a number of concerns expressed regarding the traffic
and overflow of parking in the neighborhood along Clemens
and Fairview Streets;
and the motion carried unanimously, (3-0).
Ms. Keene stated that as a Planning Board, we create the Master
Plan. She asked if City Council would need to approve this plan.
Ms. Stachowiak stated that City Council does not have to approve
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES October 19, 2004 Page 12
the plan and that the Board makes the final decision. Ms. Keene
inquired about why City Council would have to approve an
amendment to it. Mr. Rieske stated that there are public notice
requirements for the Master Plan that were changed as part of this
plan amendment and require that the Planning Board request input
from adjacent jurisdictions. This happens in order for the City to be
regionally moving forward with some sort of coordinated effort.
The plan requires that the Planning Office assemble a mailing list
and submit it to City Council for its approval. This was done and
during the process, City Council reviews the plan and can assert its
right to do the final adoption of the plan. City Council approved the
mailing list and did not address whether it wanted to do the final
adoption. As in the past, it is the Planning Board that does the
adoption. Ms. Keene stated that the Board just has to adopt it and
forward it to City Council. Mr. Rieske stated that City Council has
already reviewed the project in great detail and has seen a number
of presentations by the Lansing School District at the Committee of
the Whole meetings and the Development and Planning meetings.
Mr. Rieske stated that the Planning Board is affirming the adoption.
Ms. Keene stated that all the Board needs to do is have six votes
and then it is a done deal. Then it is forwarded on to City Council.
Ms. Foster stated that is correct.
Mr. Czekai made a motion, seconded by Ms. Keene, to approve, MPA-1-2004, SE
Corner of Saginaw and Marshall Streets, Amendment to NE Area Comprehensive
Plan, as amended and recommended by the Urban Development Committee.
Frederick Ave Ruge Ave
Foster. Ave Keene Ave
Czekai. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ave Hollister . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ave
On a roll call vote, there were: Ayes: 6; Nays: 0; carried; unanimous.
APPROVED.
Ms. Stachowiak stated that the next meeting will be on Wednesday,
November 3rd because of the election.
D. Pending Items: Future action required
1. Zoning and Ordinance Committee
a. Z-1-1998, 1223 N.Turner St.,"H"Light Industrial District to"G-1" Business
District(Tabled February 11, 1998)
b. SLU-3-2002, 2710 N. Grand River Ave., Church in the"F"Commercial District&
"J" Parking District(Tabled May 15,2002)
2. Urban Development Committee
a. Act-9-2000,201 E. Grand River Avenue, Proj. Sign Over ROW (Tabled
June 27,2000)
b. Capital Improvements Program (CIP)
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES October 19, 2004 Page 13
C. Master Plan Project
d. Act-1-2003, SE Corner Michigan&Washington, Lot 3, Block 111, Orig Plat,
Vacate Alley(part)(Tabled on April 29,2003)
3. Committee of the Whole
4. Planning Board
5. Board Member Code Enforcement Notification Reports
a. Teen Challenge-wood privacy fence(May 20,2003)
b. Dollar Store-Willow Street&MLK Blvd. -landscaping&buffering (May 20,
2003)
C. Grovenburg property-dumpster in ROW (July 1,2003)
d. 2714 W.Jolly Road-church with large statue in front yard (January 20,2004)
e. Jolly Road-tree trimming business operated from a home (January 20,2004)
f. 545 Baker Street-Mount Hope Church outreach (April 20,2004)
g. W.Willow Street-Grace Tabernacle Church-no landscaping (May 4,2004)
h. Michigan Ave&Shepard Street-sign business-several banner signs nailed to
the outside of building (May 4,2004)
i. 2702 S.Cedar Street-no landscaping (May 18,2004)
j. Corner of Aurelius and Cavanaugh Roads-Citgo gas station-weeds, excessive
signage and dead landscaping (August 3,2004)
k. Cavanaugh Road-weeds across from Hawk Island Park have not been mowed
(August 3,2004)
I. 300 Lathrop Street-6-foot fence in front yard (August 3,2004)
M. 2414 Solomon Drive-corner lot w/a high fence (August 17,2004)
n. 3706 Stoneleigh Drive-picket fence in front yard, possibly in ROW (September
8,2004)
Ms. Stachowiak stated that she does not have any updates at this time.
With item 5n, she stated that Scott Sanford, Code Compliance Officer,
went out to this address and spoke to the owner personally last week.
The owner was pretty agreeable to moving the fence out of the right-of-
way. Mr. Sanford will revisit the site and see if the owner made any
progress. Mr. Frederick stated that the owner has removed the picket
fence and that it looks like the garden had been pushed up a little bit too
far. He stated that it does look like the owner is moving the garden back
too. There is a lot of work going on and it might take the owner a little
longer. The owner is in the process of complying.
With item 5j, Ms. Stachowiak stated that Mr. Sanford is working the owner
to get things taken care of. Mr. Sanford went by there today and things
were looking better at this location.
With item 5k, Ms. Stachowiak stated that Mr. Sanford is still working on
the situation with the weeds. He has had problems with the City
Assessor's Office in terms of getting accurate ownership on who to send
site for this.
Mr. Rieske stated that he has an update on the pending UDC items. With
ACT-14-2003 has already been acted upon by the Committee and the
Board and hopefully it will be acted upon fairly soon by City Council. Ms.
Stachowiak stated that it was not on the regular agenda but it was listed
on the actions sheet.
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES October 19, 2004 Page 14
8. NEW BUSINESS
A. Planning Board Goals and Objectives -Work Program FY 2005-2006
Ms. Stachowiak stated that a copy of the work program was included in
the packet as well as the list of the current amendments that the Zoning
and Ordinance Committee is working on. Since the last meeting, the same
information has been given to the Planning staff. She stated that John
Hodges and Michael Wee went through and listed what they felt would be
significant deficiencies in the Zoning Code (i.e. from front yard fences to
storage and display in the front yard in commercial districts to billboards,
signage, housing compatibility).
She also stated that Doris Witherspoon gave updates on BTS, Sparrow
plan, etc. and where these projects stand at this time. This will be very
helpful in doing the work program for the next fiscal year. The Planning
Office would welcome any input that the Board may have. She stated that
the ultimate goal is for her and Mr. Rieske to compile a list and have a
Committee of the Whole discussion to make sure everyone is in
agreement on what things the Board should be working towards. She
stated that hopefully she and Mr. Rieske can compile a draft of the
proposed work program and have it approved by the Board in December.
Ms. Foster apologized for not pushing this as far as she wanted to and that
she is glad to hear that come December the Board will actually have this.
She stated that it may take the Board more than just one discussion for
some of the ideas. As soon as the Board begins discussion, there may be
more things that would come up.
Ms. Foster inquired about when these meetings will be. Ms. Stachowiak
stated it could be any time. Ms. Foster asked if the case load was very
light. Ms. Stachowiak stated it is in terms of cases. There is a public
hearing at the first meeting in November for the CDBG projects and could
run long because of the representatives from the non-profit organizations
speaking. She stated that the second meeting in November should be
very light. There is only one case so far for the Zoning and Ordinance
Committee and the Urban Development Committee usually does not have
much for the second meeting of the month. Ms. Stachowiak stated that
this does not have to be approved until January 2005 but she would like to
have at least one meeting in November and one meeting in December.
Ms. Foster stated that sometimes Committee work is light and asked if the
first meeting could be in Committee with each Committee identifying what
the goals are and then go to the Committee of the Whole. This would at
least give the members a second chance to discuss the priorities. She
asked if it was possible to get the list of some of the holes that the
Planning Office has seen in the next packet for the Board to review. Ms.
Stachowiak stated that would be a great idea and that it will be on the next
Z&O Committee and UDC meeting agendas. In the meantime, the
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES October 19, 2004 Page 15
Planning Office will begin compiling the information and have it available
for the Committee meetings.
Ms. Foster stated that last year it was noted that the Board reviewed the
percentages of how much every person was doing and it was
recommended that the Planning Office add another staff person. The
Board realized that the chances were slim. She asked if those
recommendations were even heard. Ms. Stachowiak stated that the
recommendations were forwarded to Mr. Ruff who forwarded them to the
Mayor's office. She stated that there are budget constraints and that the
Planning Office does not see any way in the near future of adding another
staff person. Ms. Foster asked for an update on the Master Plan. Mr.
Rieske stated that he has been working on all of these cases and there are
regular staff meetings regarding the Master Plan on Thursdays. However,
he has cancelled the last three or four meetings because other items are
demanding staff's time. He stated that John Hodges has been compiling a
profile on the existing conditions and that it is more of a profile and less of
a study. It does contain a summary of a lot of the conditions and is similar
to what the City had in its previous plans than actually including in depth
discussions of each of the topics. This is some progress that has been
happening during the course of business.
He stated that the Planning Office has been meeting with the Public
Service Department regarding urban design and many others with regards
to the Infrastructure 20/20 project. This relates to the Capital Loop, CSO
project and urban design together with the idea of what does the City have
above ground if the City is making all the changes below ground. The City
needs to take advantage of these patchwork pieces of planning projects in
order to synthesize them into a whole. This is what the Planning Office is
trying to do.
The Board is involved in the West Saginaw study and the Planning Office
has that report.
Mr. Rieske stated that the Planning Office has some information from the
other area type plans including some of the things done on the south side
of Lansing.
He stated that the Planning Office is working on the Baker Denora area.
There are a number of new houses or like-new houses where they are
being substantially rehabilitated to the point of nearly rebuilding these
homes. This is making a huge difference in this area. Some of the
information is very detailed planning to the point where it is not the
comprehensive type approach. Some of it is implementation of what was
recommended in the previous plans.
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES October 19, 2004 Page 16
Mr. Rieske stated that it is not where the Planning Office would like for it to
be but it is moving forward at times as part of the Infrastructure 20/20 and
as part of general GIS work. The Planning Office now has a street tree
inventory on GIS and a sub set of this was used for the 20/20 plan. The
Planning Office is also upgrading the parcel map by using what was
developed by the Board of Water and Light. He stated that the most
significant part of the plan is the planning process and it is getting done.
There is a lot of work being done at the regional and intergovernmental
levels and the Planning Office has taken a big role in this with the intention
that a lot of it would be applicable for the City.
B. Election of Officers
Ms. Stachowiak stated that Ms. Cordill would be willing to continue on as
Vice Chair of the Board.
Mr. Frederick made a motion, seconded by Ms. Keene to nominate Ms.
Foster for Chair. Ms. Foster stated that she would be willing to serve as
Chair. On a voice vote, the motion carried unanimously (5-0).
Ms. Foster made a motion, seconded by Mr. Frederick to nominate Ms.
Cordill for Vice Chair. On a voice vote, the motion carried unanimously
(6-0).
9. COMMENTS FROM CHAIRPERSON
Ms. Foster welcomed Mr. Hollister to the Board.
10. COMMENTS FROM BOARD MEMBERS — None.
11. BOARD MEMBER CODE ENFORCEMENT NOTIFICATION REPORTS
Mr. Frederick stated that the home located at 4229 Chickory Lane has had a "For
Rent" sign for several weeks and now has an occupant. He would like for this to
be passed on to the Code Compliance office in case it is an unregistered rental.
12. ADJOURNMENT - Meeting was adjourned at 8:00 p.m.
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES October 19, 2004 Page 17
Respectfully submitted,
James A. Ruff, Secretary, Planning Board
PBMinutes.101904.doc
Approved as written 11-16-04. Draft to Clerk October 27,2004
Approved November 16,2004
To Clerk November 18,2004
Minutes of the Regular Meeting
LANSING PLANNING BOARD
7:00 p.m., Tenth Floor, Council Chambers
Lansing City Hall
Tuesday, October 5, 2004
1. OPENING SESSION
The meeting was called to order at 7:00 p.m. by Ms. Cordill, Vice Chair.
A. Roll call: Present: Frederick, Keene, Ruge, Cordill, Czekai, Hollister.
B. Staff Attending: Stachowiak, Rieske.
C. Excused absences: Foster.
D. Absent: McConnell.
Mr. Ruge made a motion, seconded by Ms. Keene to approve an excused
absence request for Ms. Foster. On a voice vote, the motion carried unanimously
(6-0).
2. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Mr. Frederick made a motion, seconded by Mr. Ruge to approve the revised
agenda with the addition of an Urban Development Committee meeting during
the recess. On a voice vote, the motion carried unanimously (6-0).
3. COMMUNICATIONS
A. Letter of opposition from Mr. James Lynch regarding LS-25-2004
B. Petition objecting to LS-25-2004
4. HEARINGS
A. LS-24-2004, 115-119 W. Grand River Avenue, Lot Split
This is a request by Greg & Marie Clark to divide the property at 115-119
W. Grand River, resulting in the following legal descriptions:
115 W. Grand River:A part of Lots 1,2,11&12 of Block 34, Original
Plat, City of Lansing, Ingham County, Michigan, the boundary of
said parcel being described as: Beginning at a point 8 feet east of
the northwest corner of said Lot 1; thence south 132.05 feet to a
point 8 feet east of the southwest corner of said Lot 2; thence west
along the south line of said Lots 2 and 11 a distance of 37 feet,
thence north 132.11 feet to the north line of said Lot 12; thence
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES October 5, 2004 Page 2
east along said north line and the north line of said Lot 1 a distance
of 37 feet to the point of beginning.
119 W. Grand River:A part of Lots 11&12 of Block 34, Original
Plat, City of Lansing, Ingham County, Michigan, the boundary of
said parcel being described as: Beginning on the north line of said
Lot 12, at a point 29 feet west of the northeast corner of said Lot
12, thence south 132.11 feet to the south line of said Lot 11; thence
west along said south line 53.86 feet, thence north, 132.14 feet to
the north line of said Lot 12; thence east along said north line 53.53
feet to the point of beginning.
Section 1236.07(c) of the Zoning Ordinance requires a minimum lot width
of 60 feet for residential lots. In addition, Section 1236.07(d) allows a
maximum width to depth ratio oft to 2.5 for residential lots. If approved,
the resulting lot at 119 W. Grand River would have a width of 53.53 feet
and the resulting lot at 115 W. Grand River would have a width of 37 feet
and a width to depth ratio of 1 to 3.56. Therefore, variances from the
design requirements of the subdivision regulations are requested.
Mr. Frederick inquired about how long residences have been on this
parcel. Ms. Stachowiak stated that these are very old homes and that
they may have been there for 80 to 85 years or more.
Mr. Ruge stated that part of the lot was "C" Residential and part of it was
"F" Commercial. Ms. Stachowiak stated that a very small strip on the east
edge of the site is zoned "F" Commercial and the remainder of the
property is zoned "C" Residential. The entire block was split in half with
the west half being zoned "C" Residential and the east half zoned "F"
Commercial. This parcel, somewhere along the line, included 8 feet from
another parcel.
Mr. Ruge asked if this would cause a problem since residential property is
not allowed in the "F" Commercial District. Ms. Stachowiak stated that
residential property by itself is not allowed in the "F" Commercial District
and that the encroachment of the structure into the "F" Commercial District
does not affect the lot split request.
Ms. Stachowiak stated that the issue is with 115 Grand River, the smaller
of the two parcels and that the proposed lot size would not accommodate
one unit with two bedrooms and one unit with one bedroom. There is only
enough lot area to accommodate two efficiency units or turn the whole
structure into a single family dwelling. If the lot split were to be approved,
the applicant would have to make some adjustment to the interior of the
home. The unit located at 119 Grand River is fine and has approximately
7,000 square feet of lot area which is enough area to accommodate the
two 2-bedroom units that currently exist.
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES October 5, 2004 Page 3
Ms. Stachowiak stated that parking would have to be provided and the
shared driveway is a good use of access. There would have to be an
easement over the driveway so that one property owner, if these are sold
in the future, cannot prevent the other property owner from accessing the
rear parking areas.
Ms. Stachowiak stated that currently there is not enough parking on this
property to serve both residences. If the lot split were to be approved, this
would have to be resolved by adding additional parking in the back of
these two lots.
Ms. Cordill inquired about the two properties on the one lot and asked if
the lot split could be adjusted more evenly. Ms. Stachowiak stated that
the applicant cannot equally divide the lots because the one house is so
much larger than the other one. The applicant has to maintain at least a 6
foot side yard setback and is currently showing 8.3 feet. The applicant is
trying to make sure that there is an even side yard setback for both
houses. The most that the applicant can shift the side lot line would be
another 2.3 feet. She is not sure how this would benefit the properties in
any way. Ms. Cordill stated that it would be closer to 40 feet for the
smaller lot.
Ms. Keene asked about the ultimate purpose for the applicant doing this
and if he was planning to sell one of the properties. Ms. Stachowiak
stated that the applicant gave no indication of selling either of the
properties.
Greg Clark, 4924 Dunnwoody, Oldsmar, FL, spoke in favor of his
request and stated that the lot split is necessary for financial reasons.
Ms. Cordill referred the LS-24-2004 to the Zoning and Ordinance
Committee, scheduled to meet on October 13, 2004 at 4:00 p.m. in the
Planning and Neighborhood Development Conference Room at 316 N.
Capitol Avenue.
B. LS-25-2004, 4804 Ballard Road, Lot Split
This is a request by Larry Yelinek, Trustee, Ballard Tyson Trust, to divide
the property at 4804 Ballard Road into 3 parcels, resulting in the following
legal descriptions:
4804 Ballard Road: North 5 feet of Lot 7 and the South 66 feet of
Lot 8, Eco Farms
Vacant Parcel: North 73 feet of Lot 7, except the north 5 feet
thereof, Eco Farms
Vacant Parcel: South 68 feet of Lot 7, Eco Farms
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES October 5, 2004 Page 4
Section 1236.07(d) allows a maximum width to depth ratio of to 2.5 for
residential lots. If approved, the resulting lot at 4804 Ballard Road would
have a width to depth ratio of 1 to 4.29. Each of the vacant parcels would
have a width to depth ratio of 1 to 4.48. Therefore, variances from the
design requirements of the subdivision regulations are requested.
Mr. Larry Yelinek, 9331 Shannon, Brighton, MI, spoke in favor of his
request and stated that he recently took possession of the property
through a foreclosure sale. He stated that he plans to renovate the
existing house, and either sell or build single family homes on the two
newly created lots.
Mr. Calvin Lynch, 4915 Wainwright, stated that his father lives directly
behind the subject property and that he is opposed to the lot split because
it would create the potential for duplexes to be built on the vacant lots. He
stated that this area does not need any more rentals and that the people
who have been looking at the property are the ones who typically build
rental duplexes in Lansing.
Ms. Cordill referred the LS-25-2004 to the Zoning and Ordinance
Committee, scheduled to meet on October 13, 2004 at 4:00 p.m. in the
Planning and Neighborhood Development Conference Room at 316 N.
Capitol Avenue.
C. NCU-3-2004, 1000 River Street, Request for Class A Nonconforming
Status
This is a request by Heidi Spanburg for Class "A" Nonconforming Status at
1000 River Street. The property is nonconforming as it contains a single
family residential structure in the "H" Light Industrial Zoning District and
does not comply with the minimum front yard setback requirement. The
applicant proposes to make substantial renovations to the home. This is,
therefore, a request for Class "A" Nonconforming status to permit the
proposed improvements at 1000 River Street.
Mr. Scott Belen, representative of Ms. Heidi Spanburg, stated that the
petition was filed in order to permit the continued renovations to the home
at 1000 River Street. He found out that because the property is in an
industrially zoned area, and because of its limited value, he was only able
to put a small amount of money into the home. He stated that he would
like to be able to make all of the improvements that are necessary to make
the house livable.
Mr. Frederick asked the applicant if he was aware of special issues with
rehabbing this property since it is in the flood plain. Mr. Belen stated that
he was not aware of these issues, and that everything on the property will
meet code requirements.
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES October 5, 2004 Page 5
Ms. Cordill referred the NCU-3-2004 to the Zoning and Ordinance
Committee, scheduled to meet on October 13, 2004 at 4:00 p.m. in the
Planning and Neighborhood Development Conference Room at 316 N.
Capitol Avenue.
5. COMMENTS FROM THE AUDIENCE (5 minutes each)
Seeing no one wishing to address the Board, Ms. Cordill closed the public
comment period.
6. RECESS was taken by the Board, and a short Urban Development Committee
meeting convened to consider ACT-1 4-2004.
7. BUSINESS SESSION
A. Minutes for Approval — September 21, 2004
Mr. Frederick moved; seconded by Ms. Keene to approve the minutes of
September 21, 2004 with corrections. On a voice vote, the motion carried
unanimously (5-0). The minutes of September 21, 2004 were
APPROVED w/Corrections.
Pg. 1, Item #7A, September "21" s/b September "8".
Pg. 2, Item #7B1a, 3rd para., 3rd line, "gasoline station" s/b "strip mall".
Pg. 8, 2"d para., last line, delete "do this." and add "look into the matter, if
possible."
Pg. 14, 2"d para., 5th line, delete "proverbs," and "etc."
B. Committee Reports
1. ZONING AND ORDINANCE COMMITTEE, Mr. Ruge, Chair
Next meeting, Wednesday, October 13, 2004 at 4 p.m.
316 N. Capitol Avenue, Department Conference Room
2. URBAN DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE, Ms. Keene, Vice Chair
a. ACT-1 5-2004, 1616 Perkins, Barrier free ramp in ROW
This is a request by Brian McNamara to replace a barrier
free ramp at 1616 Perkins Street which will be located in the
Perkins Street right-of-way.
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES October 5, 2004 Page 6
The applicant is proposing to erect a 93.9 sq. ft. barrier free
ramp that will extend 2.92' in the public right-of-way at 1616
Perkins. The applicant has indicated that the existing old
ramp needs to be replaced because it is deteriorating.
The property is located at the southwest corner of Perkins
and Shepard Streets. The character of the area, which is
predominately residential, will not change as a result of this
barrier free ramp. The applicant is attempting to make
improvements to the store by replacing a deteriorating ramp
and providing a safer entrance into the store. In an effort to
accomplish this, the proposed ramp will encroach 2.92' into
the public right of way.
Staff recommended approval of ACT-15-2004, a request by
Brian McNamara a barrier-free ramp in the Perkins Street,
subject to approval of a license agreement to convey the
right to construct and occupy the ramp, with the following
conditions:
1. Revert all control and authority back to the City
should the ramp no longer be used by the applicant in
the manner approved by the City;
2. Require adequate surety to restore the location to its
original condition should the ramp cease to be used
by the applicant in the agreed upon manner;
3. An indemnification/hold harmless clause to address
liability issues;
4. That the City of Lansing be named as coinsured with
respect to the ramp area;
5. That the appearance of the ramp be substantially as
presented in the conceptual diagram provided with
the application.
In Committee, the request was recommended for approval
with the following conditions:
1. That all control and authority revert back to the City
should the ramp no longer be used by the applicant in
the manner approved by the City;
2. The applicant provide adequate surety to restore the
location to its original condition should the ramp
cease to be used by the applicant in the agreed upon
manner,
3. The license agreement include an
indemnification/hold harmless clause to address
liability issues;
4. That the City of Lansing be named as coinsured with
respect to the ramp area;
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES October 5, 2004 Page 7
5. That the appearance of the ramp be substantially as
presented in the conceptual diagram provided with
the application, with a maximum encroachment of
three (3) feet into the public right of way; and
6. That the applicant shall be responsible for restoration
of ramp should it be necessary to repair utilities;
and the motion carried unanimously, (3-0).
Mr. Ruge inquired about condition number 2 and asked if the
applicant would provide a bond to restore the location to its
original condition. Ms. Stachowiak stated that it may be
dealt with in the license agreement. Mr. Rieske stated that
this condition arose as an outgrowth of the Troppo's property
and that the City's license agreements could be a lot tighter.
The Committee wanted the license to provide some financial
assurance that if the property is no longer in use in the
manner agreed upon, that there should be money to restore
the property. He stated that a bond would be one way of
handling it.
Ms. Keene made a motion, seconded by Mr. Czekai, to approve ACT-15-2004, 1616
Perkins, Barrier free ramp in ROW.
Frederick . . Ave Ruge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ave
Cordill. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ave Keene . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ave
Czekai. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ave Hollister . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ave
On a roll call vote, there were: Ayes: 6; Nays: 0; carried; unanimous.
APPROVED.
b. Amendment to Consolidated Summary and Plan
Submission (CSPS), FY 2005 Action Plan
This proposed amendment will permit CDBG funds to be
used to pay for special assessments for new sidewalks for
income eligible home owner/occupants in neighborhoods
where sidewalks are being installed in connection with City
construction projects.
The purpose of the amendment is to relieve hardship for low
income home owners who cannot afford to pay special
assessments for sidewalk improvements that become
necessary due to City initiated construction projects.
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES October 5, 2004 Page 8
This amendment will permit these sidewalk expenses to be
paid from the existing CDBG budget of$235,830 for Public
Improvements. The budget for Public Improvements is
available for infrastructure needs in the community, and the
plan already contains a similar provision for paying special
assessments for paving projects that are initiated by the
City.
Approximately $50,000 is available in the current public
improvements budget that can be used for this purpose.
Eligibility for these resources will be limited to low and
moderate income homestead households in neighborhoods
where the City is engaged in construction. Applications may
be prioritized to serve extremely low income home owners if
the demand from eligible applicants exceeds funds
available.
Staff recommended approval of the Amendment to the
Consolidated Summary and Plan Submission (CSPS), FY
2005 Action Plan.
In Committee, the request was reviewed in light of
Community Development Block Grant goals and objectives,
and the City's goal of completing a sidewalk network, and it
was found that the proposed amendment will reduce the
financial burden of sidewalk improvements on low and
moderate income homeowners, and assist with the funding
of needed sidewalk improvements. The request was
recommended for approval and the motion carried
unanimously, (3-0).
Mr. Czekai recused himself due to a potential conflict of
interest.
Mr. Frederick asked if there was anything in the plan
regarding eligibility criteria for receiving funds and how it is
determined (i.e. low income eligibility requirements). Ms.
Keene stated that the details have not been worked out and
that the criteria would probably be the same as any other
CDBG money.
Mr. Rieske stated that the Development Office has a map of
census tracks and block groups in which more than 50
percent of the residents have low or moderate incomes. The
low and moderate income criteria are household size
adjusted based on the area median income for the Lansing
Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA). This includes rich and
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES October 5, 2004 Page 9
poor places. If the Public Service Department is planning a
street or sidewalk project located in either of these areas,
the department would know that it would be dealing with a
good number of lower income folks. The Public Service
Department is trying to work with the Development Office to
income screen those residents along a street where the
sidewalk improvements will be made. These homeowners
who have low or moderate incomes, defined as 50 and 80
percent of the area median income, would be eligible to
receive these funds. This would offset the special
assessment. He stated that it may not be determined
whether it is a full or partial offset, and that it may not be
determined whether the money would be targeted only to
those with 50 percent of the area median.
Mr. Frederick inquired about an individual in a high income
MSA who suddenly becomes low income (i.e. lay offs,
divorce). Mr. Rieske stated that this is a detail that he does
not have an answer to. Mr. Frederick encouraged Mr.
Rieske to anticipate in this determination and make some
sort of plan for these types of situations.
Ms. Cordill stated that building new sidewalks would now
become an eligible activity, and inquired about this being a
part of the census tracks or if an individual can come
forward. Mr. Rieske stated that it may be according to
sidewalk projects.
Ms. Keene made a motion, seconded by Mr. Frederick, to approve Amendment to
Consolidated Summary and Plan Submission (CSPS), FY 2005 Action Plan.
Frederick . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ave Ruge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ave
Cordill. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ave Keene . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ave
Hollister . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ave
On a roll call vote, there were: Ayes: 5; Nays: 0; carried; unanimous.
APPROVED.
C. ACT-14-2004, Convey east 89 ft. of Manchester Court
The applicant has requested that the City convey the street
right-of-way for that portion that is immediately south of the
building labeled "Unit #6" on the site plan. Five parking
spaces and a curb cut into a parking lot to the west of Unit
#6 would be made possible if the right-of-way were vacated.
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES October 5, 2004 Page 10
The applicant now owns the parcel to the south of the east
49.5 feet of the Manchester Ct. right-of-way. Land south of
the west 39.5 feet of the right-of-way, however, is owned by
Ralph and Roberta McCain. That portion of the right-of-way,
if vacated, would be split up between the Gillespie Group
and the McCains, resulting in an entry of 16.5 feet for the
applicant to enter into their development. The west 39.5 feet
of the requested right-of-way would need to be used by both
property owners to the north and south, and if divided, may
result in unnecessary conflict. That portion of the right-of-
way would best operate if left as public right-of-way and
maintained as such. The emergency gate into the Prudden
Place development could therefore, be placed at the west
end of the 49.5 feet of Manchester Court with appropriate
signage indicating the end of the public street. The street as
such would be considered a dead-end street. Any
arrangements for snow plowing and street sweeping, etc.
will need to be made to the satisfaction of the Public Service
Department.
The Prudden Place development plan shows the applicant's
intent to create a parking lot at the east end of Manchester
Ct. The main entry into Prudden Place is off of May Street—
Sheridan Street and Manchester Court, will serve as gated
emergency exits.
The overall Prudden Wheel site is located adjacent to west-
bound Oakland Avenue and is east of Larch Street and west
of the CSX railroad (See attached map). Manchester Ct. is
a one block long street that stretches from Larch to the
Prudden Place site and essentially serves as an access
drive to the rear of the used car lots (Ralph McCain
dealership) that fronts onto Larch Street and gives access to
a residential property at 607-609 Manchester Ct. The
R.O.W. is 33 feet wide and includes a narrow sidewalk on
both sides of the street next to the street trees. Staff
recommends that the City take action to convey the right-of-
way necessary if the following issues are adequately
addressed:
1. The east 49.5 feet of Manchester Court be vacated to
the applicant, with the west 39.5 feet to remain as
public right-of-way;
2. The entrance into the proposed parking lot on the north
side of Manchester Ct. be redesigned to not extend into
the right-of-way with the landscape island as shown on
the site plan;
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES October 5, 2004 Page 11
3. Easements for utility purposes should be maintained for
the City and utility companies;
4. The City street tree (22" Maple) to be removed subject
to the approval of the City Forester;
5. The transfer be revocable if the Prudden Place
redevelopment project is not satisfactorily completed
within a reasonable time;
6. Arrangements be made with the Public Service
Department regarding street sweeping, snow plowing,
etc.
In Committee, the request was recommended for approval
with the following conditions:
1. The entrance into the proposed parking lot on the
north side of Manchester Court be redesigned to not
extend into the right-of-way with the landscape island
as shown on the site plan;
2. Easements for utility purposes should be maintained
for the City and utility companies;
3. The existing City street tree (22" Maple) be removed
and be replaced with another tree at the developer's
expense with a tree selection and site approved by
the City Forester;
4. The developer make arrangements with the Public
Service Department regarding street sweeping, snow
plowing and storage, etc.;
5. The transfer be revocable if the Prudden Place
redevelopment project is not satisfactorily completed
within a reasonable time;
and the motion carried unanimously, (3-0).
Mr. Hollister inquired about the definition of reasonable time.
Ms. Keene stated that there was no definition for reasonable
time and that is why the developer plans on working out
some language. There are plans for the developer to break
ground soon and to have tenants by next summer. Ms.
Keene stated that the Board is asking the City Attorney's
office to come up with some type of parameters in the
agreement.
Mr. Frederick asked if there had been any discussion
regarding the design proposal for the dead end of
Manchester Ct., how it would be designed and who would be
responsible for the cost of redesigning it. He also stated that
it should be something that would allow traffic to be able to
make the turn rather than just a street that stops with a gate.
There should be someway to turn around. Mr. Rieske stated
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES October 5, 2004 Page 12
that the site plan review by the Public Service Department
has basically been approved with the exception of this
particular area with the parameter that the ACT 285 review
would take place. There are a couple of options that the
Public Service Department has for street sweeping, snow
plowing, etc., however, these options have not been
finalized. He stated that since the developer owns both
sides of the street for the east 49.5 feet, this part can be
vacated. There is another owner on the south side of the
street and the developer owns the north side of the street
and proposes a parking lot. The gate would be at the west
end of the vacated area. The City needs to be sure that the
owner has access to his property. Presumably the owner
will be able to enter and exit the property the same way
without necessarily having a cul-de-sac situation. This
would be true with the users of the parking lot. The main
users who would require a turn around would be street
sweepers, snow plows, emergency vehicles, etc. There
needs to be a radius that would accommodate these
vehicles and that would be part of the agreement that would
need to take place with the Public Service Department. It
would also be part of the owner finalizing the site plan
review.
Mr. Frederick asked if the applicant would be responsible for
the cost of all the work to make sure that the street
sweepers, snow plows, emergency vehicles, etc. could turn
around. Mr. Rieske stated that the applicant would
presumably be responsible. Mr. Frederick asked if the
applicant would be responsible for the curb cut, if there is
one required for the property to the south. Mr. Rieske stated
that it would be part of the site plan review. Ms. Stachowiak
stated that the applicant always has to pay for curb cuts.
Mr. Rieske stated that the original plan was to vacate a
longer distance, approximately 40 additional feet, and have
the gate located at this point, and then work out something
with the southern property. By moving this back, the City
can deal with known property owners and access needs plus
being able to allow the developer to put the gate where it is
needed. It is currently proposed for the west end of the
property.
Ms. Keene made a motion, seconded by Mr. Frederick, to approve ACT-14-2004,
Convey east 89 ft. of Manchester Court.
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES October 5, 2004 Page 13
Frederick . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ave Ruge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ave
Cordill. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ave Keene . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ave
Hollister . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ave
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
On a roll call vote, there were: Ayes: 5; Nays: 0; carried; unanimous.
APPROVED.
Next meeting, Tuesday, October 26, 2004, 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
Ms. Stachowiak stated that City Council approved the special land use
permit for the expansion of the adult foster care facility located on Britten
Ave.
City Council accepted the Board's recommendation and denied the
request for rezoning from residential to office at the corner of Dunckel
Road and Hazelwood Drive.
She stated that City Council approved the lot split request near Bowker
Drive and Aurelius Road.
Ms. Stachowiak stated that Mr. Rieske handed out Citizen Planner
Program brochures to Board members. Mr. Frederick asked if City funds
were available to send any of the Board members. Ms. Stachowaik stated
that she would look into the matter. Mr. Rieske stated that if any member
is interested in attending, please let the Planning Office know. He also
stated that the Michigan State University extension is looking at
scheduling something for January or March 2005.
D. Pending Items: Future action required
1. Zoning and Ordinance Committee
a. Z-1-1998, 1223 N.Turner St.,"H"Light Industrial District to"G-1"Business
District(Tabled February 11, 1998)
b. SLU-3-2002,2710 N. Grand River Ave., Church in the"F"Commercial District&
"J"Parking District(Tabled May 15,2002)
2. Urban Development Committee
a. Act-9-2000,201 E. Grand River Avenue, Proj.Sign Over ROW (Tabled
June 27,2000)
b. Capital Improvements Program (CIP)
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES October 5, 2004 Page 14
C. Master Plan Project
d. Act-1-2003, SE Corner Michigan&Washington, Lot 3, Block 111, Orig Plat,
Vacate Alley(part)(Tabled on April 29,2003)
3. Committee of the Whole
4. Planninq Board
5. Board Member Code Enforcement Notification Reports
a. Teen Challenge-wood privacy fence (May 20,2003)
b. Dollar Store-Willow Street& MLK Blvd.-landscaping &buffering (May 20,
2003)
C. Grovenburg property-dumpster in ROW (July 1,2003)
d. 2714 W.Jolly Road-church with large statue in front yard (January 20,2004)
e. Jolly Road-tree trimming business operated from a home(January 20, 2004)
f. 545 Baker Street-Mount Hope Church outreach (April 20,2004)
g. W.Willow Street-Grace Tabernacle Church-no landscaping (May 4,2004)
h. Michigan Ave&Shepard Street-sign business-several banner signs nailed to
the outside of building (May 4,2004)
i. 2702 S. Cedar Street-no landscaping (May 18,2004)
j. Corner of Aurelius and Cavanaugh Roads-Citgo gas station-weeds, excessive
signage and dead landscaping (August 3,2004)
k. Cavanaugh Road-weeds across from Hawk Island Park have not been mowed
(August 3,2004)
I. 300 Lathrop Street-6-foot fence in front yard (August 3,2004)
M. 2414 Solomon Drive-corner lot w/a high fence(August 17,2004)
n. 3706 Stoneleigh Drive-picket fence in front yard, possibly in ROW(September
8, 2004)
8. NEW BUSINESS
A. Work Program — FY 2005-2006
Ms. Stachowiak stated that at the last meeting, Ms. Cordill asked about
preparing a list of ordinances that the Zoning and Ordinance Committee is
currently working. She said that this list was given to the Board members
at this meeting.
Ms. Stachowiak stated that she has spoken with Mr. Rieske regarding the
Planning Board Goals and Objectives and that this is not something that is
optional. This has to be done and the best way to handle it is to have
each Board member make a list of the things that they would like to see
the Planning Board accomplish over the next year, short term and long
term (i.e. ordinance amendments, policy and procedure changes, Master
Plan items). What she and Mr. Rieske will do is compile the comments
into a workable list, and then have a Committee of the Whole working
session where these items can be discussed. This can be done before or
during a meeting. After that, it can be put into final document form which
is the work program and goals. She stated that this needs to be done by
the end of the year. Ms. Cordill asked about a recommended due date for
written comments to be turned in. Ms. Stachowiak stated by the next
meeting, if possible.
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES October 5, 2004 Page 15
B. Election of Officers
Ms. Cordill inquired about election of officers. Ms. Stachowiak stated that
the election will take place at the next meeting.
9. COMMENTS FROM CHAIRPERSON — None.
10. COMMENTS FROM BOARD MEMBERS
Mr. Ruge stated that he found a couple of interesting articles that he would like to
share. One article is from the Lansing State Journal and talked about the value
of trees. Since the Board has been emphasizing trees and has been requiring
people to plant trees, he thought this was important. He stated that there is a
web site: www.treelink.org. He believes that this is important so that people do
not think that the Board is making them do something because it can and
because the Board just likes trees. There is a benefit to having trees beyond the
Board's satisfaction. He would like to see this emphasized somehow to the
applicants who are encouraged to plant trees. He would also like to see this
emphasized at City Council when the Board forwards the parking lot changes to
them. He stated that there will be some resistance to these changes in the
business community and he believes that it would be important for the Board to
state its case as to why this is important, other than aesthetics.
Mr. Ruge stated that in another article found in the City Pulse, a Michigan State
University Professor, Mr. Warrant Rowel, is working on a project regarding the
Oakland/Saginaw Corridor Beautification Project. He was wandering if anyone
else had heard anything about it. He stated that there is a meeting tomorrow
night at 5:30 p.m. Ms. Stachowiak stated that the Planners, John Hodges and
Donna Wynant, have been attending these meetings, and that it will all tie in to
the overlay district that Ms. Wynant is currently working on. Mr. Ruge stated he
did not know that Ms. Wynant was working on the overlay district and asked if
this was for the Oakland/Saginaw Corridor. Ms. Stachowiak stated that this is a
section of it. There is also Old Town, East Michigan and South Washington
sections. Mr. Ruge stated that the article seemed interesting and that there was
some controversy because there are people worried about green space being
abused by others. Ms. Keene inquired about green space being abused. Mr.
Ruge stated that there are people selling drugs and performing sex acts in green
space areas.
11. BOARD MEMBER CODE ENFORCEMENT NOTIFICATION REPORTS
Mr. Ruge stated that Sparrow Hospital recently constructed a parking lot on the
corner of Michigan Avenue and Virginia Street, across from the Ronald McDonald
House. He stated that the parking lot does not have any screening and buffering.
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES October 5, 2004 Page 16
Mr. Ruge inquired about the Grovenburg dumpster. Ms. Stachowiak stated that
she turned in another request and asked if the dumpster was still there. Mr.
Ruge stated that the dumpster was still there.
Mr. Ruge inquired about Grace Tabernacle Church and asked if the church has
applied to a higher power to avoid putting in green space. Ms. Stachowiak stated
there were complaints but the church has to do it. City Council approved the
Board's recommendations which required landscaping. Ms. Stachowiak stated
that the Church claims it is not occupying the building, but it is.
Mr. Ruge inquired about 300 Lathrop Street and the 6 foot fence. Ms.
Stachowiak stated that it was written up by a Code Compliance Officer. No
action was taken so it was ticketed.
12. ADJOURNMENT - Meeting was adjourned at 8:50 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
James A. Ruff, Secretary, Planning Board
P B M i n u tes.100504.d oc
Approved as written 1-4-05 Draft to Clerk December 17,2004
Approved January 4,2005
To Clerk January 6,2005
Minutes of the Regular Meeting
LANSING PLANNING BOARD
7:00 p.m., Tenth Floor, Council Chambers
Lansing City Hall
Tuesday, December 7, 2004 -
1. OPENING SESSION
The meeting was called to order at 7:00 p.m. by Ms. Cordill, Vice Chair.
A. Roll call: Present: Ruge, Cordill, McConnell, Czekai, Hollister.
B. Staff Attending: Stachowiak, Rieske, Hodges.
C. Excused absences: Bruch, Frederick.
D. Absent: Keene.
2. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Mr. Czekai made a motion, seconded by Mr. Ruge to approve the agenda. On a
voice vote, the motion carried unanimously (5-0).
3. COMMUNICATIONS — None.
4. HEARINGS
A. ACT-17-2004, 122 Smith Street, Acquisition and Demolition of Duplex
This is a request by the City of Lansing Development Office to acquire the
property with CDBG funds for demolition and clearance of the existing two
unit structure and conveyance of the property to the adjoining property
owners to reduce overcrowding. The property is located at 122 Smith St.
(Parcel # 33-01-01-21-381-061), more specifically described as:
W% of lot 7 of Block 17 of Park Place Subdivision, City of Lansing,
Ingham County, Michigan
Mr. Hodges gave a brief overview.
Mr. Ruge inquired about how much it would cost to purchase the property
and demolish it. Mr. Hodges stated that he does not have an estimate at
this time and that the property was acquired by the Lansing Housing
Commission.
Mr. Ruge asked if the property would be split amongst the neighbors. Mr.
Hodges stated that was the request.
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES December 7, 2004 Page 2
Mr. Ruge asked if the neighbors would pay the amount that the City paid
for the property. Mr. Hodges stated that this issue has not been described
in the communications that he has received.
Mr. Ruge inquired about ownership and if the GLHC would be
rehabilitating the building. Mr. Hodges stated that if the City is not
interested in acquiring the property, then it is the intentions of the GLHC to
rehabilitate the building. Mr. Ruge asked if it the building would remain as
a two-unit or if it would be returned to a one-unit. Mr. Hodges stated that
the Development Office recommended that the building be returned to a
single family dwelling. Mr. Ruge asked if Mr. Hodges could provide an
estimate and also if there would be a cost to the neighbors.
Mr. Czekai stated that in one of the letters from 2003 addressed to Council
President Wood there was a reference to the Moores Park Neighborhood
Organization. Although there was no communication received from them
or no indication from them, he asked if the organization supported the
position of the City to purchase the property located at 122 Smith Street
and demolish the house. Mr. Hodges stated that it was at the
organization's request and that he received the information from a report
that was prepared by the Development Office. Mr. Hodges stated that he
does not have a communication from the organization and has not spoken
with the organization. He stated that the City sent a request for comments
to the neighborhood organization but the organization may not have had
time to hold its meeting.
Ms. Cordill inquired about the current dimensions of the properties located
on Coleman Avenue. Ms. Stachowiak stated that the smallest property is
31.5 feet wide by 55 feet deep, and the largest property is 49.5 feet wide
by 55 feet deep.
Ms. Cordill asked if the properties would gain an extra 27.5 feet. Mr.
Hodges stated that is correct. Mr. Ruge asked if the properties would gain
the entire width of the 122 or gain half. Mr. Hodges stated that the owner
would be getting the entire width of the property. There are four lots that
would abut the side of the property and each would get 27.5 feet. Mr.
Ruge stated that it usually is the City's practice to split the property evenly
between the all the adjoining properties. Mr. Hodges stated that is for
vacation of right-of-ways. When acquiring property, there is no precedent
on how to divide the property.
Ms. Dorothy Jones, resident 426 W. Barnes Street, stated that she has
been an active member of the Moores Park Neighborhood Organization for
over 10 years. The organization has looked at this property for 10 to 12
years because it was apparent that the property was not maintained.
Some of the tenants were not desirable. Ten or twelve years ago the City
said that we can't afford both to buy the house and pay relocation costs.
In 2003, the property was vacated and red tagged. At that point, the
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES December 7, 2004 Page 3
organization presented a formal request that the property be purchased
and demolished. The neighborhood was largely built in the early 1900s
when the automobile business began. The Reo Truck Company was
close by and it needed people who could walk to work from the
neighborhood. The neighborhood was very closely built. She provided
pictures for the Board to review. There are 20 buildings on this square
block and 30 units to be occupied. When CDBG first started
approximately 20 years ago, the organization took down the number of
houses in the neighborhood to reduce the overcrowding. This particular
block did not have any reduction. The organization feels that this is the
appropriate time to demolish the home at 122 Smith Ave. She stated that
the property runs from Smith Avenue to the alley and if it is divided
amongst the Coleman Avenue houses, these houses would have a size
that is more appropriate to the needs and desires of today's society.
She stated that two of the houses have virtually no back yards, may be 8
to 10 feet. There is no place to park vehicles and there is kind of a shared
drive between the homes. The organization feels that it would be to the
enhancement of neighborhood and the whole City if this was opened up so
that the houses on Coleman could have a decent back yard.
She stated that the organization did not take formal action but has been
discussing this issue for 12 years. In 2003 when the property became
vacant, the organization made formal action and presented to the Council
for purchasing and demolishing of the property.
She stated that the State Historic Commission has put a null on the
request but she does not believe that anyone from the Commission has
viewed the area. This house was built in 1915 and the houses on
Coleman Avenue were built in 1917. She stated that there is not much
difference in the age of the homes and that an owner would have to do a
little bit to keep up to date with times. If this house is left as it is,
overcrowding would continue.
She asked that a portion of the property next to the houses on Smith
Avenue be retained by the City as an alley or some way for the residents
in the middle of the Coleman Avenue block to have automobile access
back to the property that may be added to the surrounding properties. She
urged the Board to approve the request. She has spoken to an aide to
send the request to Representative Benero. Benero understands the
situation and if the City does in fact purchase the property, he will help the
organization to convince the Historic Commission that this is okay to do
and that it will enhance the other historic properties rather than destroying
the historic character of the neighborhood.
Mr. Harry James, resident of 1725 Coleman Avneue, stated that his
property is adjacent to the property located at 122 Smith Avenue, and that
he supports the demolition of the home. He does not have a back yard.
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES December 7, 2004 Page 4
He is representing the other Coleman Avenue residents who are also
supportive of demolishing the home. This would enable them to have
more room.
He stated that this is not a good area for a family to be with kids because
there is no room for the kids to play.
Seeing no one else wishing to speak, Ms. Cordill closed the public hearing
and referred ACT-17-2004, 122 Smith Street, Acquisition and
Demolition of Duplex to the Urban Development Committee, scheduled
to meet on January 25, 2005 at 4:00 in the Planning and Neighborhood
Development Conference Room at 316 N. Capitol Avenue.
B. PRD-1-2004, Planned Residential Development, Proposed "Morgan
Hill" Site Condominiums
This is a request by Eric Stevenson for approval of a Planned Residential
Development on a 1.875 acre parcel located at the east end of Larrabee
Drive. The applicant proposes to construct 6 detached, single family,
residential site condominium units on the subject property.
Ms. Stachowiak gave a brief overview.
Mr. Ruge asked where the ordinance amendment is and if it has gone
anywhere. Ms. Stachowiak stated that it has not but will likely progress at
probably the same pace as this request. She stated that it will make a
difference as to whether the applicant actually pulls building permits
before or after the ordinance goes into affect. Ms. Cordill stated that there
have been concerns by the Board with having houses attached to
garages.
Mr. Eric Harger, Representative for the applicant with Trinity
Engineering located in St. Johns, stated that he would like to add that the
utility extensions are in process (i.e. sanitary sewer extension, water main
extension, storm sewer extension). He has spoken with Dan Danke and
Andy Kilpatrick with the City of Lansing to make sure the company is
conforming to all the requirements of the City. This residential
development would be a very harmonious fit to the neighborhood. He
stated that the actual density allows for 7 units per acre and the company
is currently at 3.2 units per acre. The plans show larger lots so the
residents can enjoy more space.
Ms. Cordill asked if the company had considered recessing the garage or
making it a less prominent feature of the home. Mr. Harger stated that as
it stands, this is a preliminary floor plan.
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES December 7, 2004 Page 5
Ms. Cordill asked if the company considered increasing the number of
bedrooms for the condominium units. Two bedroom units seem rather
small in today's market. Mr. Harger stated that he would have to defer to
his client Ms. Cordill stated that there was approximately 1,600 square
feet and could easily add a third bedroom.
Ms. Jamie Schmidt, resident of 5700 Coulson Court, stated that the
proposed area of development is on a hill directly behind her residence
and she is concerned with the properties looking down into her home.
She stated that this development would decrease the value of her home
and increase traffic in the neighborhood. She is opposed to the
development.
Mr. Jerry Felt, resident of 5706 Coulson Court, stated that the
proposed area of development would be on a big hill and the residents
would be able to look down into the neighborhood windows. He stated
that there is a major problem with traffic in this area for North Elementary
School and Gardener Junior High. If this continues there would be streets
passing through and with the condominiums traffic would be an even
greater problem with people traveling through the area. This would make
an open traffic way. He would like to obtain some information on what
these condominiums would do to the value of the homes in the area. He
stated that sometimes it is nice to have new condominiums but six years
down the road what they may look like would really depreciate the value of
the neighbors' land. The height of the hill where the new development
would be is approximately 25 feet. He would not be able to put up a
privacy fence because the new residents would still be able to look into his
back yard. His major concerns are traffic and privacy.
The neighbors are trying to resolve the pedestrian traffic with the
Gardener Middle School kids cutting through the properties on their way to
school. He asked if there was some way that the neighbors would be
advised of the status of the development. Ms. Cordill stated that there
would be word of where this goes in the process. She stated that as a
point of information Larrabee Steet through this development ends up in a
cul-de-sac and that it would not be a through street. Mr. Felt stated that
he understands the development would end in a cul-de-sac. Currently,
the street does not go through but still has traffic from the children cutting
through. Instead of the children walking around to the bus stop, they cut
through the neighbors' yards and cut across to get to Gardener Junior
High school. People walk through the yards when it is dark. Most of the
houses have sliding glass doors and he does not particularly like people
cutting through his back yard especially when his wife is in the basement
working and having them staring into the windows. Constructing
condominiums is opening an opportunity for more traffic to cut through.
Mr. Dan Silengo, resident of 127 Olympia Street, stated that his home
is located at the bottom of the hill. He stated that he stood at the top of
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES December 7, 2004 Page 6
the hill and that there is no way he could put a fence up high enough in his
yard to keep anybody from seeing into his area from the top of the hill.
He stated that a man hole will be on the corner of this lot which will be in
his back yard. The man hole would be for drainage and there is already a
water drainage problem. He does not need any more water problems. He
is sure that the developer is intelligent enough to make sure that the
drainage would not run onto his property. He is opposed to this
development. He stated that foot traffic is also a concern.
He stated that with the homes on Northrup Street adjacent to the
development which have long backyards, whose to say that all these other
homeowners will sell their properties on the back side to continue this road
which would run parallel to Olympia? He sees this as a lot of congestion
and this would be too much for one area.
He does not want to pay to have a fence put in to keep people out of his
back yard. He received the plans in the mail from the City and the plans
showed a fence around the development. He has heard a rumor that
there would not be a fence. He requested that if the development was
approved, that there be a privacy fence where the new residents could not
see into his house.
He would like to know what is up with the man hole in his back yard. He
also requested that privacy trees be put in.
Mr. John Steven, developer and a new resident to the Holt area,
stated that he wanted to explain a few things. On the site condo these will
be privately owned homes and will not be owned by a rental company.
The owners will own the property and maintain them as new homes. The
acreage that is there would allow for double the house that could be
constructed in that area. He went for half the amount of the homes. The
pedestrian traffic comes from the neighborhood and side streets. These
are the kids who live on Olympia and Coulson Streets who come through
this area to go to school.
The views from the back of these houses are not sitting on the edge of the
hill. The homes have considerable back yards in between the houses that
are situated in the back lot. Many of the new residents may put up fences
which would take the privacy part completely out. People down below
obviously cannot build fences high enough to protect their homes. The
people who live up the hill can easily put up fences which will stop all
pedestrian traffic or should cut it down considerably. Most kids are a little
less conscious about going through developed home areas in between
those yards as they are through an open field. The open field is a magnet
for the kids to hang out or to travel through. Everyone has a legitimate
right here to live on Northrup Street or the side streets because they are
all going through there to get to the open field. He believes that the traffic
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES December 7, 2004 Page 7
would be considerably less as soon as the area is developed. Hopefully
the new residents will put up fences but there are no restrictions on the
condo.
He stated that in order for the neighbors on Northrup Street to develop
their back yards, the residents would have to join the association. This is
a private road that is owned by the association. It is not like someone can
just say they will sell the back side of their property and build a house
there. This would keep down a lot of the traffic.
Six houses will be built here and the additional road traffic may be a small
amount. He stated that the foot traffic would be considerably less.
Ms. Rhea Anderson, resident of 134 E. Northrup, stated that this
development will abut her back yard and that there will be a lot more
traffic. She shares a driveway with a neighbor and with the way it is set
up, it looks like another road. A private property sign was put up and that
has eliminated the problem. There are pedestrians who go through her
back yard.
She stated that with the driveway into the proposed development, a lot of
woods would have to be demolished. This was one of the reasons why
she purchased her property. She was attracted to the trees and the
openness. She is opposed to the development.
Seeing no one else wishing to speak, Ms. Cordill closed the public hearing
and referred PRD-1-2004, Planned Residential Development,
Proposed "Morgan Hill" Site Condominiums to the Zoning and
Ordinance Committee, scheduled to meet on January 12, 2005 at 4:00 in
the Planning and Neighborhood Development Conference Room at 316 N.
Capitol Avenue.
C. Z-18-2004, South of E. Michigan Avenue, between Cedar & Larch
Rezoning from "H" Light Industrial to "G-1" Business District
ACT-18-2004, South side of E. Michigan Avenue, between Cedar &
Larch, Public Sale of City Property
Z-18-2004. This is a request by the City of Lansing, Department of
Planning & Neighborhood Development to rezone the property located
south of E. Michigan Avenue, between Cedar and Larch Streets, more
specifically described as:
Lots 20, 21, 22, 26, 27 & the south % of the vacated alley adjacent
thereto, Ranney's Subdivision of Lot 1, Block 241
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES December 7, 2004 Page 8
from "H" Light Industrial District to "G-1" Business District, for the purpose
of developing the property for mixed uses (i.e. residential, office,
commercial).
ACT-18-2004. This is a request by the City of Lansing, Department of
Planning and Neighborhood Development to sell the property located on
the south side of E. Michigan Avenue, between Cedar & Larch Streets,
more specifically described as:
Lots 1 through 23 and Lots 26, 27 and the vacated alley adjacent
thereto, Ranney's Subdivision of Lot 1, Block 241; and the north
of the east % and the south 'z of the east 132 feet of Lot 2, Block
241, Original Plat
Mr. Hodges gave a brief overview on both cases.
Mr. Ruge inquired about drawing in the stadium district and asked if it was
the actual proposal or if it was the concept of what could possibly happen.
Mr. Hodges stated that it is the design concept and that perhaps the
developer could explain it better. The floor plan layout seems to be
consistent with this particular design. Mr. Ruge asked if there was a
developer chosen. Mr. Hodges stated that the project is a proposal by
Gillespie Partnership and the City is responding to convey the property for
this project to the developer. Ms. Stachowiak stated that the information
in the packet, the site plan and the elevation drawing, were both provided
to the Planning Office by Mr. Gillespie.
Ms. Cordill inquired about the Parks horizontal lines and the LBA diagonal
lines on the parcel map. Mr. Hodges stated that all of the property was
owned by the City of Lansing but a portion of the property is currently
under the Parks management but has not been designated for park use.
Some of the money that the City receives from the parking in this
particular area goes back to the Parks Department. Ms. Cordill inquired
about the LBA. Mr. Rieske stated that LBA stands for Lansing Building
Authority which was established for the purpose of property acquisitions a
long time ago and was instrumental in the planned assembly of land in
various places (i.e. the stadium project).
Mr. Pat Gillespie, of Gillespie Group, stated that he has been working
with the City for 4 to 5 months on this project laying out different site plans
and elevations. This is what instigated this request for an ACT 285 review
and a rezoning. Basically this is 30,000 square feet of retail or office use
on the first level. There would be 69 urban loft apartments on levels 2 and
3, with one, two or three bedroom units. These apartment would be
anywhere from a 1,400 square foot, three bedroom apartment to a 790
square foot studio, one bedroom apartment to a 1,080 square foot, two
bedroom apartment. This is a great unit mix on levels 2 and 3. On levels
3 and 4, there are garden patios which would be two story condominiums.
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES December 7, 2004 Page 9
He stated that there would be 21 of them and that they will be marketed at
$175,000 to $225,000. These condominiums would have garden patios
overlooking Michigan Avenue. The apartments on the other levels will be
anywhere from $750 to $1,100 a month. There will be private parking on
site. These plans have been presented to City Council, Planning Staff and
have been marketed to the community. The reception that the company
has received so far has been absolutely incredible. He stated that bars,
restaurants, retail operations, coffee shops and financial institutions would
like to house their operations at this location. These companies like the
visibility on Michigan Avenue and they liked the mixed-use. Overall, there
are approximately 89 residences here. A lot of the people he has spoken
with from 621 to Troppos to the Lansing Chamber of Commerce have all
voiced the same opinions. They would love to see people after 5:00 p.m.
and see activity on Michigan Avenue. They would like to a signature
building like this one on the way to the capital rather than a surface
parking lot. He stated that every step of the way he has seen incredible
comments and Gillespie Group is excited about this project.
Mr. Ruge inquired about the parking ramp and if it would be private or if
the public would be able to use it. Mr. Gillespie stated that this portion
was not included in the ACT 285 review and that the City will maintain
ownership it. He stated that the City is still debating whether it will build a
parking ramp or surfaced parking and that either way it will be open to the
public. Mr. Ruge mentioned that there may not be a ramp at this location.
Mr. Gillespie stated the City was determining if there is a need for the
ramp.
Mr. Hollister stated that on the picture that was just passed around it
shows the ramp but it would not be a part of his development. Mr.
Gillespie stated that was correct and that Gillespie Group is waiting for
word from the City to see whether or not the ramp is approved.
Mr. Hollister stated that on the west side of the property that runs along
Cedar Street the drawing shows 25 covered parking spaces. He asked if
these were a part of the development. Mr. Gillespie stated that those 25
or 26 spaces will have an elevator that goes directly to the 21 "for sale"
condominiums. These are private spaces for the proposed condominiums
on the fourth level.
Ms. Cordill inquired about the rental units and where these residents
would park. Mr. Gillespie stated that there are approximately 100 parking
spaces at this location and 26 parking spaces in another wing.
Ms. Cordill inquired about the covered parking and asked if it belonged to
the condominium portion of the project. Mr. Gillespie stated that is correct.
Mr. McConnell inquired about the breakdown of the 21 condominiums with
69 apartments. He stated that the City is trying to promote home
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES December 7, 2004 Page 10
ownership even in the downtown area with loft renovations. Mr. Gillespie
stated that he is 100 percent positive that he can rent the apartments and
that he is not positive about how deep the condominium market is in the
City of Lansing.
Mr. McConnell inquired about other special amenities. Mr. Gillespie stated
that floors 2 and 3 will have a work out facility. The fourth floor will have a
1,400 square foot conference room which is a video conference room set
up so people can hold fund raisers, Tupperware parties, wedding
showers, birthday parties, etc. It would be like a mixed use business
center. He stated that there would be outside parking, two work-out
facilities and a video conferencing room.
Mr. Hollister stated that the ACT 285 review encompasses a larger area
that would include the parking garage that may or may not exist and would
belong to the Gillespie Group. Mr. Hodges stated that the lower parking
area would belong to the City but is under review of the ACT 285 because
the parking needs that are generate by this overall development had
implications on this parking area. The City wanted to address this even
though the ownership portion is not changing for the whole section.
Mr. McConnell asked if the City would allow the tenants to utilize some of
the parking that the City owns. Mr. Hodges stated that this will be a public
lot and will be open to the public. The City still needs to work out all the
details as to whether this particular design meets the demands that are
going be generated by itself as well as the other needs of this area. The
City is currently reviewing all these issues. Mr. Hodges stated that parking
will be the primary challenge in this development.
Mr. Gillespie was told that one of the reasons the ACT 285 would
encompass the whole thing was that the ACT 285 review kicks in surveys,
and other things that identify utilities so that the Gillespie Group could
identify everything at once rather than just the front portion. He stated that
it is not so much an ownership but the actual lay out of what is
underground in this area.
Mr. Jerry Carpenter, resident of 119 S. Larch Street, stated that he and
his father own Liskey's Professional Wheel Service and they are in favor
of the development. He stated that everything that has happened in the
area (i.e. Oldsmobile Park, surrounding growth) has been good for the
business.
Seeing no one else wishing to speak, Ms. Cordill closed the public hearing
and referred Z-18-2004, South of E. Michigan Avenue, between Cedar
& Larch, Rezoning from "H" Light Industrial to "G-1" Business
District to the Zoning and Ordinance Committee, scheduled to meet on
January 12, 2005 at 4:00 in the Planning and Neighborhood Development
Conference Room at 316 N. Capitol Avenue, and referred ACT-18-2004,
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES December 7, 2004 Page 11
South side of E. Michigan Avenue, between Cedar & Larch, Public
Sale of City Property to the Urban Development Committee, scheduled
to meet on January 25, 2005 at 4:00 in the Planning and Neighborhood
Development Conference Room at 316 N. Capitol Avenue.
5. COMMENTS FROM THE AUDIENCE (5 minutes each)
Seeing no one wishing to address the Board, Ms. Cordill closed the public
comment period.
6. RECESS was taken by the Board.
7. BUSINESS SESSION
A. Minutes for Approval — November 3, 2004
Mr. Hollister moved; seconded by Mr. Ruge to approve the minutes of
November 3, 2004 without corrections. On a voice vote, the motion
carried unanimously (5-0). The minutes of November 3, 2004 were
APPROVED.
Mr. McConnell stated that with him missing the last two meetings, the
record does not reflect his absences as excused and they should be
excused. He stated that each time he has missed a meeting he has called
another Board member and/or someone from the Planning Office. He
stated that the record should reflect November 16t" and the subsequent
meeting that his absences were excused.
Mr. Ruge made a motion to approve excused absences for Mr. McConnell
from the November 3rd and November 16th meetings. Ms. Stachowiak
stated that the motion dies for lack of a second.
Minutes for Approval — November 16, 2004
Mr. Ruge moved; seconded by Mr. Hollister to approve the minutes of
November 16, 2004 without corrections. On a voice vote, the motion
carried unanimously (5-0). The minutes of November 16, 2004 were
APPROVED.
Mr. McConnell inquired about the minutes being amended to reflect his
excused absences. Ms. Stachowiak stated that the minutes would not be
amended. Mr. McConnell stated that he could make the motion and have
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES December 7, 2004 Page 12
it supported by Mr. Ruge. Mr. Rieske stated that the Board does not
usually have a member vote on their own excused absences. Mr.
McConnell stated that he would like to only make the motion. Mr. Rieske
stated that he does not know where to go on this part. Ms. Stachowiak
inquired about Mr. McConnell making a motion with support and having
the Board vote on it. Mr. Rieske stated that would work.
Mr. McConnell made a motion, seconded by Mr. Ruge to approve excused
absences for Mr. McConnell from the November 3rd and November 16th
meetings. On a voice vote, the motion failed (2-3).
Ms. Cordill stated that it may be helpful to say after Ms. Bruch's name
"formerly Ms. Foster" and be consistent throughout the minutes by using
her current name.
B. Committee Reports
1. ZONING AND ORDINANCE COMMITTEE, Mr. Ruge, Chair
Next meeting, Wednesday, January 12, 2005 at 4 p.m.
316 N. Capitol Avenue, Department Conference Room
2. URBAN DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE, Mr. Czekai, Acting
a. Nomination of Election of Officers
Mr. Czekai stated that it was decided by the Committee that
he would be taking up the helm from Mr. McConnell. He
stated that he hopes that he can fill the shoes.
Mr. Czekai stated that Ms. Keene will continue her service
as the Vice Chair of the Committee.
b. Approval of 2005 UDC meeting schedule
Mr. Czekai stated that the meetings will remain the fourth
Tuesday of the month as it has been for 2004 and the
schedule was approved by the Committee.
G. Discussion of 2005 Work Program
Mr. Czekai stated that the committee reviewed the Planning
Board duties under City Charter and the Municipal Planning
Act (P.A. 285 of 1931), the items listed on the FY 04-05
Planning Office Work Program, and the comments regarding
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES December 7, 2004 Page 13
the Work Program by Board and staff members. The main
points of the ensuing discussion were:
1. Although opportunities for improvement exist, the
Board complies with its duties as specified in City
Charter and P.A. 285;
2. Continue efforts on completing a master plan revision,
and conducting capital improvements programming;
3. The Planning Office web site should be upgraded;
4. Present the annual report to the Planning Board, with
Board accomplishments shown, in a manner which
doesn't "reinvent the wheel";
5. Include in the "Report from Planning Manager" (at
Board meetings) regular updates on the cases acted
upon by the Planning Board;
6. Consider carbon copying the Planning Board chair on
all transmittals to the Mayor for subsequent action;
7. Consider giving Planning Board input on the
necessity of parking meters in certain areas;
8. Consider the zoning amendment ideas that were
suggested by staff.
Next meeting, Tuesday, January 25, 2005, 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
Ms. Stachowiak stated that before the meeting invitations were handed out
to the holiday gathering next Tuesday at the Radisson Hotel restaurant.
This will not be on the regularly scheduled meeting day because the
Planning staff figured it was a little too close to Christmas.
Ms. Stachowiak stated that the Board evaluations were also handed out.
She asked that the Board complete the evaluations and return them to the
Planning Office preferably by the first meeting in January.
Mr. Hollister inquired about the holiday gathering and if it was in lieu of the
meeting on December 21st. Ms. Stachowiak stated that was correct. Mr.
Rieske stated that a dinner will be provided and alcohol will be at the
expense of the individual.
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES December 7, 2004 Page 14
Ms. Stachowiak gave an update on City Council items. In October, the
Board recommended approval of LS-24-2004, 115-119 W. Grand River
Avenue, Lot Split and it was approved by City Council.
Ms. Stachowiak stated that there was a little controversy regarding
Z-17-2004, 801-803 N. Sycamore Street, "C" Residential to "DM-2"
Residential District. The Committee recommended that the request be
denied and City Council is leaning that way as well which is consistent with
the way the Board recommended it.
Ms. Stachowiak stated that Z-14-2004, 427 W. Ionia Street/222 N.
Chestnut Street, "DM-3" Residential District to "D-1" Professional Office
District has been approved by City Council.
Ms. Stachowiak stated that LS-25-2004, 4804 Ballard Road, Lot Split is put
on hold only because one of the residents who had concerns was not able
to attend the Committee meeting and City Council wants to make sure that
the resident has every opportunity to provide input.
Mr. Rieske stated that ACT-14-2004, Convey east 89 ft. of Manchester Ct.
right-of-way has been approved by City Council.
Mr. Rieske stated that ACT-13-2004, Walsh Park, Easement for
Consumers Energy was approved by City Council for a license agreement.
Mr. Rieske stated that ACT-15-2004, 1616 Perkins, Barrier-free Ramp in
Perkins ROW was approved by City Council.
Mr. Rieske stated that ACT-4-2004, SW Corner Leslie & Main, Sell Portion
of Acquired Main St ROW was approved by City Council.
Mr. Rieske stated that with ACT-5-2004, SW Corner Mt. Hope & MLK,
Acquire for Neighborhood Sign the City did acquire the property and the
neighborhood sign was installed. The sign was not installed in accordance
with what was recommended and was placed in the middle of the property,
not as close to the corner.
Mr. Rieske stated that ACT-9-2004, 111 E. Grand River, Permanent
Canopy over ROW has been approved by City Council but not installed.
D. Pending Items: Future action required
1. Zoning and Ordinance Committee
a. Z-1-1998, 1223 N.Turner St.,"H" Light Industrial District to"G-1"Business
District(Tabled February 11, 1998)
b. SLU-3-2002,2710 N. Grand River Ave., Church in the"F"Commercial District&
"J"Parking District(Tabled May 15,2002)
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES December 7, 2004 Page 15
2. Urban Development Committee
a. Act-9-2000,201 E. Grand River Avenue, Proj. Sign Over ROW (Tabled
June 27,2000)
b. Capital Improvements Program (CIP)
C. Master Plan Project
d. Act-1-2003,SE Corner Michigan&Washington, Lot 3, Block 111, Orig Plat,
Vacate Alley(part)(Tabled on April 29, 2003)
3. Committee of the Whole
4. Planning Board
5. Board Member Code Enforcement Notification Reports
a. Teen Challenge-wood privacy fence(May 20,2003)
b. Dollar Store-Willow Street& MLK Blvd.-landscaping &buffering (May 20,
2003)
C. Grovenburg property-dumpster in ROW (July 1,2003)
d. 2714 W.Jolly Road-church with large statue in front yard (January 20,2004)
e. Jolly Road-tree trimming business operated from a home (January 20,2004)
f. 545 Baker Street-Mount Hope Church outreach (April 20,2004)
g. W.Willow Street-Grace Tabernacle Church-no landscaping (May 4,2004)
h. Michigan Ave&Shepard Street-sign business-several banner signs nailed to
the outside of building (May 4, 2004)
i. 2702 S.Cedar Street- no landscaping (May 18,2004)
j. Cavanaugh Road-weeds across from Hawk Island Park have not been mowed
(August 3,2004)
k. 2414 Solomon Drive-corner lot w/a high fence(August 17,2004)
I. Michigan Ave&Virginia Street-Sparrow Hospital property-no screening and
buffering (October 5,2004)
M. 4229 Chickory Lane-possible unregistered rental (October 19, 2004)
n. Intersection of Aurelius&Miller Roads- no street signs (November 3, 2004)
o. Intersection of Kipling Blvd. &Vine Street-house for rent, possible registered
rental (November 3,2004)
p. 2410 S. Pennsylvania Ave.-no landscaping (November 3, 2004)
q. 2740,3013&3030 Stoneleigh Drive-possible registered rentals(November 16,
2004)
r. 3525 Ruth Avenue-possible registered rentals(November 16,2004)
S. 2411 Windbreak Lane-possible registered rentals(November 16,2004)
t. Cavanaugh Road between Aurelius Road & Pennsylvania Ave., northeast side of
the tracks-area becoming garbage dump(November 16,2004)
U. Both Leo's Lodges-illegal signs on roofs(November 16,2004)
Ms. Stachowiak addressed the status of several of the pending items.
8. NEW BUSINESS
A. Planning Board Meeting Schedule for 2005
Mr. McConnell made a motion, seconded by Mr. Hollister to approve the
2005 meetings schedule. On a voice vote (5-0), the motion carried
unanimously.
B. Reconsideration of Act-16-04, Acquire Properties for CSO Project:
904 Bates Street, 843 & 844 Harris Street and Vacant Lot #26 on
Banghart Street.
Mr. Rieske stated that the Planning Board recommended approval of Act-
16-04 on 11/16/04 subject to several conditions. As a reminder, this was a
request by the City of Lansing's Public Service Department to acquire
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES December 7, 2004 Page 16
three properties at 904 Bates (Parcel A), 843 Harris (Parcel B) and 844
Harris (Parcel C) which are all zoned "B" Residential for a CSO project.
The following circumstances have changed since the Planning Board
made its recommendation:
1. Subsequent to the Planning Board action, the property owner on
Harris Street, Linda Marciniak, indicated her interest in combining
an adjacent vacant lot (Lot #39) that she owns to her property at
843 Harris Street (Lot#40). The two lots, when combined would
result in a buildable lot (100' x 156'). A new house, or relocated
house, could be erected on Lot #39, leaving Lot#40 as additional
side yard.
2. Based on a Title Search, it was discovered that the Parks
Department has no legal interest in the property at the east end of
Harris Street (formerly known as 854 Harris Street). Based on the
discussion and recommendation of the Planning Board, if the
properties are not retained for public or neighborhood parks and
open space, then the properties should be sold to the owners of
neighboring residential properties to be combined with existing
residential lots for additional side yard space.
3. The Planning Board also recommended approval of Act-16-04
provided that the City obtain an acceptable environmental
assessment. The Public Service Department is still evaluating
whether or not this is necessary for the subject properties. It should
be stressed that the City will need to acquire the subject properties
regardless of whether of not an environmental assessment is
conducted.
The following describes the properties more specifically:
Parcel A, located at 904 Bates, is 50' x 156' (7,800 sq. ft.) and
includes a 712 square foot house built in 1937. The vacant parcel
to the east, also owned by the same property owner Linda
Marciniak and zoned "B" Residential, will need to be combined with
904 Bates, which will make it a buildable lot for a single family
home. Lot 40 could also be split between lot 41 and lot 39.
Parcel B, located at 843 Harris, is 50' x 137.38' (6,869 sq. ft.) and
includes a 974 square foot house built in 1949, and was recently
sold to FR Investments, LLC. This lot should strictly be sold and
combined with Lot#80 to the west since the property to the east is
a nonresidential property. Combining said lot would likely result in
the encroachment of a business into a single family neighborhood.
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES December 7, 2004 Page 17
Parcel C, located at 844 Harris, is 50' x 133' (6,650 sq. ft.) and
includes an 860 square foot house built in1952 and is owned by
William and Connie Hoag. The property should be sold and
attached to Lot #82 to the west. The property to the east is a "no
name" property according to the Assessor's Office, and is not
owned by the City through the Parks Department, contrary to what
is labeled on the Assessor's Tax Parcel map. This change will be
reflected on next year's maps. Staff therefore recommends that
Parcel C be sold and attached to Lot#83 and not to parcel to the
east.
The following is a point of information (no action by Planning Board
required):
Parcel D, a vacant lot on Banghart Street (Lot#26), is located
between the houses at 903 and 915 Banghart and is 40' x 133'
(5,320 sq. ft.). The Public Service Department requests that an old
1936 easement located across Lot 26 be "replaced/clarified" with a
new 40' sewer easement. Permanent easements for CSO projects
were approved under Resolution #745, dated December 16, 1991.
No Planning Board or City Council action is needed for Parcel D.
The following general recommendations to address the overall Act
285 are:
5. Should be sold to the owners of neighboring residential
properties for combination with adjacent parcels.
More specifically, staff recommends the following on each of the
parcels:
Parcel A: Acquire both lots 39 and 40. Either combine all or a
portion of Lot 40 to the adjacent residential lots.
Parcel B: Acquire Lot 81 and combine the entire lot with the
residential lot to the west, (Lot 80).
Parcel C: Acquire Lot 82 and combine the entire lot with the
residential lot to the west (Lot 83).
Parcel D: No Planning Board action is required. The Public Service
Department should replace or clarify the existing 1936 easement
located across Lot 26 with a new 40' sewer easement. Permanent
easements for CSO projects were approved under Resolution
#745, dated December 16, 1991.
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES December 7, 2004 Page 18
Mr. Hodges stated that recommendation #5 could be eliminated as it is not
necessary.
Mr. Czekai made a motion to reconsider Act-16-04. Mr. Hollister seconded the motion.
On a voice vote, the motion carried unanimously (5-0).
Mr. Czekai made a motion to approve Act-16-04 to acquire the three properties subject
to the following conditions:
1. that the City obtain good and marketable title to the properties;
2. the City should relocate the homes to a suitable location or demolish the
structure;
3. that there be future deed restrictions on the properties prohibiting the
approval of any building permits over the easements; and
4. the entire site must be restored and the driveway and curb cuts
eliminated.
More specifically, the Planning Board recommended the following on each of the
parcels:
Parcel A: Acquire both lots 39 and 40 and resell for residential development, either
individually or combined as two lots.
Parcel B: Acquire Lot 81 and combine the entire lot with the residential lot to the west,
(Lot 80).
Parcel C: Acquire Lot 82 and combine the entire lot with the residential lot to the west
(Lot 83).
Parcel D: No Planning Board action is required. The Public Service Department should
replace or clarify the existing 1936 easement located across Lot 26 with a new 40'
sewer easement. Permanent easements for CSO projects were approved under
Resolution #745, dated December 16, 1991.
On a roll call vote, the motion carried unanimously (5-0).
9. COMMENTS FROM CHAIRPERSON - None
10. COMMENTS FROM BOARD MEMBERS
Mr. Ruge encouraged the other Board members to travel down Barnes Avenue.
He said that the Transportation Office has done a very good job of traffic calming
on this street.
11. BOARD MEMBER CODE ENFORCEMENT NOTIFICATION REPORTS
Mr. Hollister stated that 1231 W. Ionia Street is a possible rental.
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES December 7, 2004 Page 19
Mr. Czekai stated that in the 1200 block of Turner Street next to the October
Moon, there appears to be someone living on the 1st floor.
12. ADJOURNMENT - Meeting was adjourned at 9:05 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
James A. Ruff, Secretary, Planning Board
PBMinutes.120704.doc
Approved as written 12-7-04 Draft to Clerk November 19,2004
Approved December 7,2004
To Clerk December 10,2004
Minutes of the Regular Meeting
LANSING PLANNING BOARD
7:00 p.m., Tenth Floor, Council Chambers
Lansing City Hall
Tuesday, November 16, 2004
1. OPENING SESSION
The meeting was called to order at 7:00 p.m. by Ms. Bruch, Chair.
A. Roll call: Present: Frederick, Bruch, Keene, Ruge, Cordill, Hollister.
B. Staff Attending: Stachowiak, Rieske. -
C. Excused absences: Czekai.
D. Absent: McConnell.
Ms. Keene made a motion, seconded by Mr. Frederick to approve an excused
absence request from Mr. Czekai for tonight's meeting. On a voice vote, the
motion carried unanimously (6-0).
2. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Mr. Frederick made a motion, seconded by Ms. Keene to approve the agenda.
On a voice vote, the motion carried unanimously (6-0).
3. COMMUNICATIONS — None.
4. HEARINGS
A. Capital Improvements Program (CIP) Needs
Mr. Rieske stated that this is the time for citizens to comment on needs
and priorities with regards to projects that should be funded under the
Capital Improvements Program (CIP) for the FY 2006 — 2011. The CIP is
a six year schedule of public improvements and various other operational
improvements that require larger cash outlays (i.e. computer equipment).
A public hearing is held annually the Planning Office tries to blend
additional comments with comprehensive plan comments and with
proposals submitted by various departments.
Seeing no one else wishing to speak, Ms. Bruch closed the public hearing
and referred the Capital Improvements Program (CIP) Needs to the
Urban Development Committee, scheduled to meet on November 30,
2004 at 4:00 in the Planning and Neighborhood Development Conference
Room at 316 N. Capitol Avenue.
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES November 16, 2004 Page 2
5. COMMENTS FROM THE AUDIENCE (5 minutes each)
Resident of 2219 Newark Avenue stated that this is a cross street between
Pleasant Grove Road and MLK Jr. Blvd. There are a lot of children in this area
and in the past the neighborhood has had petitions to have speed bumps put in.
He stated that there are no stop signs on this road between Pleasant Grove Road
and MILK Jr. Blvd. There are speeders constantly in the neighborhood. He
asked if someone could come out and look into the matter. On Mary Avenue,
speed bumps were implemented and has helped the traffic flow between the
cross streets. He is a concerned parent of children and a Pastor of the area, and
he would like to see speed bumps or stop signs implemented in this area.
Seeing no one wishing to address the Board, Ms. Bruch closed the public
comment period.
6. RECESS was taken by the Board and a short Urban Development Committee
meeting convened to consider ACT-1 6-2004.
7. BUSINESS SESSION
A. Minutes for Approval — October 5, 2004
Mr. Frederick moved; seconded by Ms. Cordill to approve the minutes of
October 5, 2004 without corrections. On a voice vote, the motion
carried unanimously (6-0). The minutes of October 5, 2004 were
APPROVED.
Minutes for Approval — October 19, 2004
Mr. Frederick moved; seconded by Mr. Ruge to approve the minutes of
October 19, 2004 with corrections. On a voice vote, the motion
carried unanimously (6-0). The minutes of October 19, 2004 were
APPROVED w/corrections.
Pg. 8, last line of the motion, delete "unanimous."
B. Committee Reports
1. ZONING AND ORDINANCE COMMITTEE, Mr. Ruge, Chair
a. SLU-7-2004, 6070 S. MILK Blvd., Church in the "F"
Commercial District
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES November 16, 2004 Page 3
This is a lot split request to utilize Suite G of the plaza at
6070 S. ML King Jr. Blvd. for church services and related
activities. The property is zoned "F" Commercial District
which permits churches with a special land use permit, if
approved by the Lansing City Council.
Collectively, there are 29 parking spaces on the site; three of
which are handicapped spaces. It is estimated that the
center has approximately 1,600 square feet of useable floor
area. The required parking for a facility of this size is 15
spaces based upon the parking requirement of one parking
space for each 110 square feet of usable floor area in a
shopping center. An additional 14 spaces are available
beyond what is required for this center. The applicant has
estimated the seating capacity of the main room at 50
persons. Since the parking requirement for churches is 1
space for each 3 seats, 17 parking spaces need to be
available. The peak use of the church would be on Sundays
from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm. This would be a time when the
other businesses in the center are either not open or are
generating only modest activity.
Staff recommended approval of SLU-7-2004, 6070 S. MLK
Blvd., Church in the "F" Commercial District, with the
condition that the seating capacity be limited to 50 persons
or the limit as determined by the Fire Marshall, whichever is
smaller.
In Committee, the request was recommended for approval
with the following conditions:
1. That the seating capacity be limited to 50 persons or
the limit as determined by the Fire Marshall,
whichever is smaller;
2. That seven trees be planted in the ROW along MLK
Jr. Blvd. with a minimum starting size of 2" caliper;
and
3. That two trees along Newark and one along Piper be
planted also with a minimum starting size of 2"
caliper;
and the motion carried unanimously, (4-0).
Mr. Ruge made a motion, seconded by Mr. Frederick, to approve SLU-7-2004, 6070 S.
MILK Blvd., Church in the "F" Commercial District with the following conditions:
1) That the seating capacity be limited to 50 persons or the limit as determined
by the Fire Marshall, whichever is smaller; 2) That seven trees be planted in the
ROW along MLK Jr. Blvd. with a minimum starting size of 2" caliper; and 3) That
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES November 16, 2004 Page 4
two trees along Newark and one along Piper be planted also with a minimum
starting size of 2" caliper.
Frederick . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ave Ruge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ave
Bruch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ave Keene . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ave
Cordill. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ave Hollister . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ave
On a roll call vote, there were: Ayes: 6; Nays: 0; carried; unanimous.
APPROVED.
Next meeting, Wednesday, January 12, 2005 at 4 p.m.
316 N. Capitol Avenue, Department Conference Room
2. URBAN DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE, Ms. Keene, Vice Chair
a. ACT-16-2004, 904 Bates, 843 and 844 Harris; Acquire for
CSO
This is a request by the City of Lansing's Public Service
Department to acquire three properties at 904 Bates, 843
Harris and 844 Harris St as part of the Combined Sewer
Overflow sewer separation project. The houses are
constructed over a 30-inch combined sewer. The existing
30-inch sewer will change from a combined sewer to a storm
sewer, thus making the sanitary sewer service leads a
pollution source and not allowed by law. The Public Service
Department proposes to either clear the houses from these
sites or relocate them to other sites to eliminate the costly
relocation of the sanitary sewer service leads from the
houses, which are of slab-on-grade construction.
The overall neighborhood, comprised predominantly of small
single family homes, is generally located between a
commercial strip along North East Street and industrially
zoned land to the east. A cluster of industrially zoned
property is also located two blocks further to the north,
closer to North East Street. According to the Future
Circulation Map of the North East Comprehensive Plan, the
streets in the area are classified as local streets. Both Bates
and Harris Streets have curb, gutter and sidewalks.
The Comprehensive Plan designates the use of this area as
residential and the request should further strengthen the
residential character and property values. The clearance of
homes on the three lots will not change the general use of
the area. The impact on the surrounding land use pattern
will therefore, not be appreciable.
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES November 16, 2004 Page 5
Staff recommended approval of the request to acquire the
four subject properties provided that the City obtain an
acceptable environmental assessment and good and
marketable title to the property.
Staff further recommended that in accordance with past
practice in neighborhood redevelopment areas, properties
should be offered to adjacent property owners at a nominal
cost, upon completion of the project.
In Committee, the request was adopted and recommended
for approval with the following conditions:
1. That there be a future deed restriction on the property
prohibiting the approval of any building permits for the
property;
2. The entire site must be restored and the driveway and
curb cuts eliminated; and
3. If cost effective, the City should relocate the homes to
a suitable location;
and the motion carried unanimously, (3-0).
Mr. Ruge inquired about how houses could be built over the
sewer. Mr. Rieske stated that he was not the only one who
was curious.
Ms. Bruch stated that she was not so sure of going to the
neighbors and asked if it was possible for these properties to
be turned into parks. She stated that this is in a very high
dense area and from the looks there are no parks in this
area. She asked if this could be turned into a nice linear
park for the area rather than given to the neighbors. The
property abuts some green area. She stated that this would
make a great pedestrian cut-through for all of this area.
Mr. Ruge suggested an amendment to offer these properties
to the Parks Department for a park and if the department
declines the offer, then offer the properties to the neighbors.
Ms. Keene accepted the friendly amendment.
Ms. Foster stated that the Planning Board is also in charge
of trying to designate if areas need more parks as well as
part of the Planning Board functions. She inquired about
this area being short of parks and stated that she would like
to see extra thought put into it rather than have it as extra
property. Ms. Cordill asked if there was an issue of
maintenance rather than acquisition by the Parks
Department. She stated that the City would already own the
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES November 16, 2004 Page 6
properties. Ms. Stachowiak stated that it is more of an issue
with maintenance. Mr. Rieske stated that the Parks
Department is trying to have a baseline level of maintenance
on all parks and to improve the maintenance on higher
profile parks (i.e. the river trails). He stated that the
department has been trying to divest of park administered
properties which were not designated parks. He stated that
it would be a good idea to ask the department to evaluate
this request before declining it. If it were a linear park, it
would be a linear park with no connectivity. This would have
to be considered.
Mr. Frederick stated that maybe the Board should lean on
the Parks department a little harder on the parcel located at
844 Harris Street since 854 Harris Street is already owned
by the Parks Department. Presumably, the Parks
department already has some maintenance requirements for
this and it would essentially double the size of the park. Ms.
Bruch stated that the other property should be left open so
that pedestrians could access the park instead of going all
the way around to enter the park. She stated that this would
be a great pedestrian path even if it is a mulch path.
Ms. Bruch stated that her dissertation is on parks and the
issues of reducing crime, increasing property values, and
increasing all sorts of health for the people, the value is
pretty high. She stated that the quality of life issues are
really high when it comes to parks.
Ms. Bruch asked if the Parks department declines the
properties then maybe offer the properties to the
neighborhood association for this area. Ms. Keene accepted
this as a friendly amendment.
Ms. Keene made a motion, seconded by Mr. Frederick, to approve ACT-16-2004, the
acquisition and resale of 904 Bates, 843 and 844 Harris with the following
conditions: 1) That there be a future deed restriction on the property prohibiting
the approval of any building permits for the property; 2) The entire site must be
restored and the driveway and curb cuts eliminated; and 3) If cost effective, the
City should relocate the homes to a suitable location; 4) The properties should be
considered first for public or neighborhood parks and open space uses; and 5) If
the properties are not retained for public or neighborhood parks and open space,
they should be sold to the owners of neighboring properties for combination with
adjacent parcels.
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES November 16, 2004 Page 7
Frederick . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ave Ruge . . Ave
Bruch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Aye Keene . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ave
Cordill. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Aye Hollister . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ave
On a roll call vote, there were: Ayes: 6; Nays: 0; carried; unanimous.
APPROVED.
Next meeting, Tuesday, November 30, 2004, 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
Ms. Stachowiak stated that the Board members received a flier regarding
a one day seminar at the Lansing Center. If anyone is interested, please
let her know and she will try to get funding to send members to it.
D. Pending Items: Future action required
1. Zoning and Ordinance Committee
a. Z-1-1998, 1223 N. Turner St.,"H" Light Industrial District to"G-1" Business
District(Tabled February 11, 1998)
b. SLU-3-2002,2710 N. Grand River Ave., Church in the"F"Commercial District&
"J" Parking District(Tabled May 15, 2002)
2. Urban Development Committee
a. Act-9-2000, 201 E. Grand River Avenue, Proj. Sign Over ROW(Tabled
June 27,2000)
b. Capital Improvements Program (CIP)
C. Master Plan Project
d. Act-1-2003, SE Corner Michigan &Washington, Lot 3, Block 111, Orig Plat,
Vacate Alley(part) (Tabled on April 29,2003)
3. Committee of the Whole
4. Planning Board
5. Board Member Code Enforcement Notification Reports
a. Teen Challenge-wood privacy fence(May 20, 2003)
b. Dollar Store-Willow Street&MLK Blvd.-landscaping&buffering(May 20,
2003)
C. Grovenburg property-dumpster in ROW(July 1, 2003)
d. 2714 W.Jolly Road-church with large statue in front yard (January 20, 2004)
e. Jolly Road-tree trimming business operated from a home (January 20,2004)
f. 545 Baker Street-Mount Hope Church outreach (April 20, 2004)
g. W.Willow Street-Grace Tabernacle Church-no landscaping (May 4,2004)
h. Michigan Ave&Shepard Street-sign business-several banner signs nailed to
the outside of building (May 4,2004)
i. 2702 S. Cedar Street-no landscaping (May 18, 2004)
j. Cavanaugh Road-weeds across from Hawk Island Park have not been mowed
(August 3,2004)
k. 2414 Solomon Drive-corner lot w/a high fence(August 17, 2004)
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES November 16, 2004 Page 8
I. Michigan Ave&Virginia Street-Sparrow Hospital property-no screening and
buffering (October 5,2004)
M. 4229 Chickory Lane- possible unregistered rental (October 19, 2004)
Ms. Stachowiak stated that with item 5k, there was an illegal fence and
the owner applied for a variance that will go before the Board of Zoning
Appeals in December.
With item 5m, she stated that the property is on the rental registration but
the registration certificate has expired. The Code Compliance officer will
track it down and have it reinspected so that the owner will have a valid
certificate.
Ms. Cordill inquired about the rental unit on Kipling Street. Ms.
Stachowiak stated that she went over the minutes today from the meeting
and turned it in to the Code Compliance office. She will have an update
for her at the next meeting.
8. NEW BUSINESS — None.
9. COMMENTS FROM CHAIRPERSON
Ms. Bruch stated that a while back Mr. Czekai suggested developing goals and
objectives for the Planning Board and she wanted to share some of things that
the Planning Board used to do. The plans are from 1964. She stated that the
Planning Board used to have Achievements of the Planning Board reports
compiled, which are not done anymore. There used to be a staff of 30 and now
there is 7 and a half. She stated that the Goals and Objectives talked about
some of the duties and she stated that there were a lot different Committees.
There was a Zoning Committee, Streets and Subdivision Committee (reviewed all
applications for subdivisions and their locations), Buildings and Property
Committee, Urban Renewal, Ordinance Committee (developed, studied and
reviewed all the ordinances), Capital's Improvements Committee, and a Finance
Committee. She stated that it looked like the Board used to be a lot different and
there are some things the Board is currently not doing.
She stated that the Planning Board used to promote public interest in an
understanding of the Planning and the Master Plan. This is still a part of the
Board's duties but there is nothing being done about it either. She asked about
how the Board can start actually meeting some of these things that the Board is
responsible for. Ms. Stachowiak stated that Mr. Frederick had provided written
comments to the Planning Office and these comments have been typed and
prepared for other members. It was on the Zoning and Ordinance Committee
agenda last week but both the previous regularly scheduled Zoning and
Ordinance Committee and Urban Development Committee meetings were
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES November 16, 2004 Page 9
cancelled due to lack of a quorum. She stated that the Board needs to do this
because staff has a deadline to have the Work Program completed. Time is
running out on this because the Board only meets once in December because of
the holidays. She stated that there is the Board dinner later in December and this
may be an opportunity to have a good discussion on it. Usually everyone is at
this meeting and it is something that the Board needs to do. If anyone can turn in
written comments in the mean time, it would be greatly appreciated. Ms. Bruch
stated that there are a few comments coming out of today's meeting: 1)
changing the rule about no shrubs on the ROW, and 2) history of how many
Planners there used to be and how it changed in the budgets.
Mr. Rieske stated that in the 1960s, HUD had the 701 Program where there was
lots of money granted to municipalities to conduct plans. In the Planning Library
at Michigan State University, there are a lot of plans done by Harlon Barthalemou
and some larger firms that were funded by the 701 Program. He stated that he
did see a plan for one community and a name of another community was snuck
in there by mistake. There was a lot of money available for planning that became
not available after the 701 program expired after model cities, etc. In the 1980s,
funding became even tighter and has not loosened up since then. Ms. Bruch
stated that there are grants available for some of these things and maybe part of
the Capital Improvements Program would be to hire a grant writer to go after
these grants that will in turn allow the City to have more planners. The Board
needs to chase funds because the City cannot financially do this. Mr. Rieske
stated that a lot of this was folded into the CDBG during the Nixon Administration.
Currently, the City has two Planners who are funded through CDBG funds. Ms.
Bruch stated that maybe the Board needs to go for more CDBG money to be able
to do this. Mr. Rieske stated that this is all formula and that the City is using
money from the Michigan State Police and FEMA to do emergency management,
emergency mitigation type planning. This requires a community profile which is a
little more abbreviated in nature than what the City would want in a Master Plan.
He stated that the City does receive money to do the Consolidated Plan which
the Board acts upon every year, and that there are these types of opportunities
given to the City which are pretty well targeted. Another possibility is to be able
to utilize whatever the City can from the Regional Growth project that Tri-County
has done. He stated that there are summaries now available of the goals and
objectives that have been whittled beyond belief. He attended several meetings
pounding out the verbage on these and he has been very particular about making
sure that it benefits central cities.
Ms. Bruch asked that the City Forester be involved to make Lansing a Tree City
USA. The City Forester does a great job of the residential trees but nothing with
the commercial area trees.
Ms. Bruch stated that billboards, especially in the entrances of the City, need to
be addressed. She stated that driving from East Lansing into the city of Lansing,
there are seven billboards and it is an eye sore that she sees everyday. She
would like to see something done about it just for the sake of beautification.
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES November 16, 2004 Page 10
Mr. Hollister asked about when improvements are done if the Board oversees the
theme for street signage and if there was a City wide theme. Ms. Stachowiak
stated that there is no theme. Mr. Hollister asked if it was by neighborhood and
stated that he has been involved in a group that is doing Saginaw Street on the
west side of town and are trying to get the entry way done over by the GM plant.
Ms. Bruch stated that the west side is not a City project. Mr. Hollister asked if
there was a general plan for street signs and sign posts. Mr. Rieske stated that
this is in the process of being developed to a certain point and that the City
Economic Development Office in conjunction with the Principal Shopping District
worked on a way-finding system for the downtown area. If one drives downtown,
it would be noticed and if one drives east on Michigan Avenue it can be seen
along Washington Avenue. There are logos on the top and bottom and then
there are names of attractions in the middle which works out nicely. It combines
different elements that can be standardized and produced at lower costs. Ms.
Bruch stated that some of the ideas with Saginaw Street were to try to have a
concept for that neighborhood and that some of these neighborhood-specific
things end up being a design issue. Mr. Hollister stated that the question
becomes whether or not the project can be funded (i.e. street lights along
Saginaw Street). He asked if there was a standard Lansing street light that the
City should purchase so that it looks the same on West Saginaw Street as it does
on Kalamazoo Street or Michigan Avenue, or is this by neighborhood. Mr. Rieske
stated that this is also up for discussion. The Planning Office does have a
standard "historic light" on its arterials and that Michigan Avenue, Washington
Avenue (in certain parts of the downtown area), and the ReoTown has them.
There is some question about what design improvements can be made in the
downtown area and especially along Michigan and Washington Avenues that
make those lights special. Ms. Bruch stated that this makes a historic area, like
this one, have some continuity to it. Mr. Rieske stated that what the City has
done in the past was to have the same street light all over the areas wherever
residents have asked for them (i.e. South Washington, ReoTown). These areas
are not as focused as the downtown area should be. He is involved with a design
committee that has been dealing with the question about if the City is placing
these lights wherever residents want them, what does the City actually do to
make the downtown area special that would make the Capital Loop special?
What does the City have on the Capital Loop that makes it recognizable once an
individual is on the loop and has seen it. He stated that currently there is a
problem, in his opinion, of ubiquity of these lights in various places which delutes
the specialness of them. What the City needs to do is develop a series of
alternatives that are compatible with but not the same as what the City is doing
along Michigan Avenue in the 100 percent corners of the City of Lansing. Ms.
Bruch stated that she agreed with Mr. Rieske with each neighborhood having its
own character. Mr. Hollister stated that he does not necessarily need an answer
tonight and inquired about this being something that the Board should look into it.
Mr. Rieske stated that he does not know the answer and the way the City is
currently structured, this is dealt with more at the project level by the sponsors of
the projects. The City is looking seriously as part of the CSO (Combined Sewer
Overflow) project downtown where it was extended from a 2 year project to
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES November 16, 2004 Page 11
basically a 16 year project, and is looking at what improvements should be made,
since the street is already torn up, concurrently with this that would be able to be
installed efficiently. Lighting improvements is one of them. What has been
recommended by the design team is that the downtown area be special
somehow. There are variations upon the same theme of the double globe
historic light. Some of the lights have caps on them and are opaque at the top
and others do not. Some have brass bands and others do not. Ms. Bruch stated
that this is what the Board needs to start doing is to cap the lights so that there is
no extra lighting. Mr. Rieske stated that this is something that has not been
addressed in the past. Board of Water and Light is in charge of this even though
it has been on the design team, a representative is not always present at the
meetings. Ms. Bruch asked if either the Urban Development Committee or the
Board should start looking into design details as well. Mr. Hollister asked if this
should be a part of the Master Plan is that the City as some sort of theme or if
there was a template of this is what the City should look like. Ms. Bruch stated
that she did not think that the Board would want a theme for everyone but that the
Board may want to say that every neighborhood is allowed to design what the
details would be like and when the designed is finished just for a quick review to
make sure that it is not something that would be an eye sore. Mr. Hollister stated
that he has seen some of the proposals and some were cool. He asked if the
City has some oversight. Ms. Bruch stated that the Board can discuss it and
decide whether it is really the Board's place or not. The Board may want to be
able to give a little input. Ms. Cordill recommended eliminating the overhead
lamp on the pole. Mr. Rieske stated that this was part of the design team's
recommendations particularly for the downtown area. Ms. Bruch stated to bring
every thing down to people scale (i.e. extra little banners, adding the awnings,
add a few benches along the way). She is aware of City's consideration with the
homeless so that the individuals do not sleep on the benches. Ms. Bruch stated
that regular benches would be really nice everywhere.
Mr. Frederick stated that what the Board is talking about is things that make the
City more attractive and that currently there is a lot of controversy about rental
units. He does not agree with the philosophy of limiting rentals but he believes a
more effective way of limiting rentals would be to study what can be done in the
City to make it more attractive to single homeowners. He stated that this is the
direction the City should be pursuing and that is what the Board discussed (i.e.
walkable communities, nice looking street lighting). He stated that somehow the
Board needs to get the City to look at this as an overall goal of making the City
more attractive. He is not sure if the Board can discuss this matter, or if the
Board has the authority to do it, or if the Board can make suggestions for
someone to do it. Ms. Bruch stated that she believes that the Board does have
the authority if the Board is supposed to do the Master Plan because this is part
of the master planning and guidelines for development. When a site plan is
presented to the Planning Office, the site guidelines are reviewed to make sure
that some of these walkable issues have been addressed. Mr. Frederick stated
that he is talking about something even more proactive than this, like
improvements that can be made immediately to make the City attractive and
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES November 16, 2004 Page 12
more desirable to live. He does not believe that the City has this, and that red
tagging houses is a start but attacks the problem far too late. This attacks the
problem when the houses are already decrepit. This can go on forever and
nothing gets done with the house. He stated that the City needs to suggest ways
to prevent these homes from becoming decrepit in the first place. He stated that
the City does have the authority to step in on these houses a lot sooner including
houses owned by landlords or residentially owned, and make sure these homes
stay improved. He stated this is one place where the Board can encourage
improvements.
Ms. Bruch requested an excused absence from the December 7t" meeting.
Mr. Frederick made a motion, seconded by Mr. Ruge to approve an excused
absence request from Ms. Bruch for the December 7t" meeting. On a voice vote,
the motion carried unanimously (5-0).
10. COMMENTS FROM BOARD MEMBERS
Mr. Frederick requested an excused absence from the December 7t" meeting.
Mr. Ruge made a motion, seconded by Ms. Keene to ap�rove an excused
absence request from Mr. Frederick for the December 7t meeting. On a voice
vote, the motion carried unanimously (5-0).
Mr. Frederick stated that a few weeks ago the County Commission entertained, if
not approved, a resolution to keep cul-de-sacs from being built in any new
developments going into the County because they are too hard to plow. Ms.
Stachowiak stated that the County cannot tell the City not to have cul-de-sacs.
Ms. Bruch stated that this was good in a sense because grid streets are better.
Mr. Frederick stated that with walkable communities and a park-like atmosphere,
the County should not ban cul-de-sacs outright. He is not sure if the City can
make any comments on this resolution. Mr. Rieske stated that Meridian
Township is inclined to agree. Ms. Bruch stated that the cul-de-sacs when taken
too far become the design of the 1970s where everything is cul-de-sac and then
everything gets dumped into one major road. This is the part that if it is tied to
other grid streets it would be fine. Otherwise, when everything is a cul-de-sac off
a cul-de-sac off a cul-de-sac, everything dumps to one major road and then it
becomes collectors and sprawl. Every once in a while a cul-de-sac is needed
depending on the shape of the piece of property. Mr. Frederick clarified cul-de-
sacs should not be banned outright but intelligent cul-de-sac planning should be
considered in some cases. Ms. Cordill stated that to the home owners the most
appealing attractive lot in a new subdivision is at the end of the cul-de-sac. Ms.
Bruch stated that this is fine if the City will give pedestrian access to the other
side so that the individual does not have to go all the way around the block and
connect to other neighborhoods. Mr. Frederick stated that maybe the County
Commissioner is listening to the City.
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES November 16, 2004 Page 13
Ms. Keene inquired about an ordinance being passed regarding the garages
being closer to the street than the homes. Ms. Stachowiak stated the ordinance
has not been forwarded and that it is still pending with either the Zoning and
Ordinance Committee or the Board. Mr. Frederick stated that it had stopped with
the Board. Ms. Bruch asked it could be placed back on the agenda.
Ms. Bruch inquired about other pending items. Ms. Stachowiak stated that the
Front Yard Setbacks ordinance is pending at the Law Office, and that the Parking
Lot Landscaping ordinance is pending with the Zoning and Ordinance
Committee. Ms. Bruch asked if these pending items could be added to the
agendas. Ms. Stachowiak stated that she made a list of all the amendments that
are in the process and that there are approximately 6 or 7 of them.
Mr. Ruge inquired about Mr. McConnell's absences. Ms. Stachowiak stated that
the Planning Office has not heard from him. Mr. Ruge asked if the Planning
Office could send him a letter or give him a phone call. Ms. Keene inquired about
the rule for absences. Mr. Frederick stated that technically the member is no
longer eligible to continue with membership. Mr. Ruge stated that the Board has
to vote on the matter. Ms. Stachowiak stated that Mr. Ruff did say that he would
talk with Mr. McConnell and she is not sure if it has happened.
11. BOARD MEMBER CODE ENFORCEMENT NOTIFICATION REPORTS
Mr. Frederick stated that there may be more possible rentals: 2740, 3013 & 3030
Stoneleigh Drive, 3525 Ruth Avenue and 2411 Windbreak Lane. He stated that
these addresses are offered for rentals.
Mr. Frederick stated that with the railroad tracks on Cavanaugh Road, between
Aurelius Road and Pennsylvania Avenue, the northeast side of the tracks is now
becoming a garbage dump. He stated that there is an old couch there and that it
is not close enough to the creek to be used by the fishermen.
Mr. Frederick stated that on both Leo's Lodges there are signs on the roof (i.e.
giant inflated beer bottles) that are clearly illegal. He stated that you cannot miss
them. One lodge is located on Pennsylvania Avenue and the other is located on
Jolly Road.
Ms. Bruch stated that when someone passes Lake Lansing Road going towards
the Eastwood Mall, there is a traffic light without a lane line on the road for people
to stop. She stated that people have been missing the light and she has seen too
many vehicles run through this intersection. She believes the drivers are not
seeing the light and there is no lane line to indicate it. Ms. Stachowiak stated that
this area is in the Township.
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES November 16, 2004 Page 14
12. ADJOURNMENT - Meeting was adjourned ut
Respectfully submitted,
James A. Ruff, ecretary, Planning Board
PBMinutes.111604.doc
Approved as written 12-7-04 Draft to Clerk November 12, 2004
Approved December 7, 2004
To Clerk December 10,2004
Minutes of the Regular Meeting
LANSING PLANNING BOARD
7:00 p.m., Tenth Floor, Council Chambers
Lansing City Hall
Wednesday, November 3, 2004
1. OPENING SESSION
The meeting was called to order at 7:05 p.m. by Ms. Bruch, Chair.
A. Roll call: Present: Frederick, Bruch, Ruge, Cordill.
B. Staff Attending: Stachowiak, Rieske, Witherspoon.
C. Excused absences: Keene, Czekai, Hollister.
D. Absent: McConnell.
Ms. Stachowiak stated that the Planning Board does not have a quorum and
therefore, the members who are present will only be holding the scheduled public
hearing and taking public comments. She further stated that no action would be
taken at this meeting.
2. APPROVAL OF AGENDA — None.
3. COMMUNICATIONS — None.
4. HEARINGS
A. SLU-7-2004, 6070 S. MLK Blvd., Church in the "F" Commercial
District
This is a request by Mount Hope Church, for a Special Land Use permit to
utilize Suite G of the plaza at 6070 S. ML King Jr. Blvd. for church
services and related activities. The property is zoned "F" Commercial
District which permits churches with a special land use permit, if approved
by the Lansing City Council.
Ms. Stachowiak gave a brief overview and stated that a full report, with a
recommendation would be provided for the Zoning and Ordinance
Committee meeting.
Seeing no one wishing to address the Board, Ms. Bruch referred
SLU-7-2004 to the Zoning and Ordinance Committee, scheduled to meet
on November 10, 2004 at 4:00 p.m. in the Planning and Neighborhood
Development Conference Room at 316 N. Capitol Avenue.
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES November 3, 2004 Page 2
B. Consolidated Strategy and Plan Submission (CSPS), 2005-2010,
Needs Hearing
Ms. Rosemary Taylor, Local Initiative Support Corporation (LISC),
811 Bon Air Road, thanked the Board for their assistance in the past.
LISC is an affordable housing organization that helps low to moderate
income residents. LISK has received $1.75 million and has loaned over
$3 million since 1991. LISC assists several community organizations:
Lansing Housing Commission, Ferris Development, Old Town Commercial
Association, Reo Town Main Street, Habitat for Humanity, Northwest
Healthy Communities Initiative, Lansing Eastside Community
Development Corporation, Greater Lansing Housing Coalition, Lansing
Community Microenterprise Fund and Franklin Street Community Housing
Corporation. She stated that this is a valuable program for the community
and that it depends on continued support in order to further its goals.
Ms. Cheryl Risner, Director of Lansing Neighborhood Council (LNC)
located at 500 W. Lenawee, stated that the LNC has served
neighborhood organizations throughout the City for many years. There
are over 76 neighborhood organizations/watches currently in the City and
new organizations are being formed. She stated that the LNC also
sponsors the Neighborhoods in Bloom programs, seminars and the Bea
Christy Award banquet. She asked for the Board's continued support.
Ms. Jean Lodge, Franklin Street Community Housing Corporation
(FSCHC) located at 1210 N. Turner, stated that the FSCHC renovates
housing in north Lansing for single family use and offers services for asset
building, home buying, money management and credit repair. She stated
that the FSCHC appreciates the Board's past and future support.
Ms. Priscilla Holmes, Coordinator for ReoTown Main Street located at
1027 S. Washington, stated that ReoTown requests $20,000 for a
matching grant to obtain an Americorp worker, audit, etc. She stated that
ReoTown has set aside money for a streetscape plan that is coming along
very nicely and that the funds are needed to extend historic streetlights
from Baker Street to Mt. Hope Ave. She explained the recent
developments in ReoTown and thanked the Board for its support of
ReoTown.
Mr. John Taylor, Greater Lansing Homeless Resolution Network
(GLHRN) located at 106 S. Washington, stated that the GLHRN is
working to prevent homelessness, build life skills and provide more
housing in the Lansing area for the homeless. The GLHRN is dedicated
to preventing homelessness and there are 27 agencies involved in the
network, including the City of Lansing. He highlighted some of the
outstanding activities undertaken by the Network and stated that the
organizations appreciate the emergency shelter grant funding from the
City. He asked the Board for its continued support for the program.
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES November 3, 2004 Page 3
Ms. Susan Kancrow, Co-Chair of the Greater Lansing Homeless
Resolution Network (GLHRN), stated that the Board's continued support
of its programs is necessary to accomplish the ultimate goal of preventing
homelessness in the Lansing area. She stated that the homeless
providers are grateful for the support from the City and look forward to its
continued support.
Mr. Donald Leaf, Director of Loaves and Fishes located at 831 N.
Sycamore, stated that Loaves and Fishes is part of the GLHRN and that
the funds are primarily used to buy food for the shelter, purchase personal
items for the residents and pay for the utilities. Loaves and Fishes
provides a safe and warm place for the homeless. He thanked the City for
their past support and looks forward to continued support.
Ms. Susan Schoultz, EVE, stated that EVE is also a part of the GLHRN.
She stated that the council against domestic assault provides shelter and
services to victims of domestic assault. The agency helped 467 people
last year.
Mr. Mark Criss, Executive Director of the City Rescue Mission
located at 607 E. Michigan Ave., stated that the City Rescue Mission
does not currently receive any CDBG funds. The shelter offers food,
clothing and shelter to the homeless and helps approximately 30 men and
30 to 35 women and children on any given night.
Mr. Charles Bicy, New Jerusalem Church (NJC) located at 3607
Inverary Drive, stated that the NJC would like to create a community
center to help young people and families get off drugs and get their lives
back on track. The program is referred to as REACT (reaching every
adult and child in trouble). He thanks the Board for their anticipated
support.
Ms. Meredith Krause, Old Town Commercial Association (OTCA)
located at 1232 Turner Street, stated that OTCA has been around for
seven years and is a Main Street Program. There are only a few of these
programs in Michigan. She stated that there has been a decrease in
crime since the buildings in Old Town have been renovated and occupied.
She thanked the Board for its past support and requested its future
support as well.
Ms. Anne Smiley, Northwest Lansing Healthy Communities Initiative
(NWLHCI) located at 423 W. Grand River Ave., stated that a vast
majority of the residents in the target area are low to moderate income
and are CDBG eligible. The NWLHNI uses economic development buyer
based homeowner strategies and promotes lane restrictions, bike lanes,
streetscape improvements, business development, etc. to transform this
part of the community. She stated that there are several agencies
involved in this initiative and she asked for the Board's support.
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES November 3, 2004 Page 4
Mr. Rick Kibbey, Executive Director of the Lansing Eastside
Community Development Corporation (LECDC) located at 1609 E.
Kalamazoo Street, stated that the primary problems affecting the east
side are lack of home ownership and a struggling E. Michigan business
district. He asked for the Board's support in trying to solve these
problems. He briefly discussed the fagade improvements along East
Michigan Avenue and the new businesses in the area. He also expressed
the LECDC's interest in becoming a Community Housing Development
Organization (CHDO) in the Lansing area.
Seeing no one else wishing to speak, Ms. Bruch closed the public hearing
and referred the Consolidated Strategy and Plan Submission (CSPS),
2005-2010, Needs Hearing to the Urban Development Committee,
scheduled to meet on November 30, 2004 at 4:00 in the Planning and
Neighborhood Development Conference Room at 316 N. Capitol Avenue.
5. COMMENTS FROM THE AUDIENCE (5 minutes each)
Seeing no one wishing to address the Board, Ms. Bruch closed the public
comment period.
6. RECESS — None.
7. BUSINESS SESSION — None.
8. NEW BUSINESS — None.
9. COMMENTS FROM CHAIRPERSON — None.
10. COMMENTS FROM BOARD MEMBERS — None.
11. BOARD MEMBER CODE ENFORCEMENT NOTIFICATION REPORTS
Mr. Frederick stated that there are no street signs at the intersection of Aurelius
and Miller Roads.
Ms. Cordill stated that there is a house for rent at the intersection of Kipling Blvd.
and Vine Street, and she questioned whether or not it was a registered rental.
Mr. Ruge stated that there is no landscaping at 2410 S. Pennsylvania Ave. as
required by the approved special land use permit.
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES November 3, 2004 Page 5
There was a general discussion regarding re-inspection fees and student rentals.
12. ADJOURNMENT - Meeting was adjourned at 8:20 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
James A. Ruff, Secretary, Planning Board
PBMinutes.110304.doc