HomeMy WebLinkAbout2008 Jul-Sept mins planning board FINAL Regular Meeting
4* LANSING PLANNING BOARD
Tuesday, August 19, 2008
6:30 p.m., Mail Level
t Fire Station #1, Community Room
120 E. Shiawassee Street
Y AGENDA
1. OPENING SESSION in the Community Room at Fire Station #1
a. Roll Call
b. Excused Absences
C. Introductions
2. APPROVAL OF AGENDA................................................................................1
3. COMMUNICATIONS
4. HEARINGS (Please limit comments to 3 minutes per person)
A. SLU-3-2008, 914 N. Washington Avenue, Special Land Use Permit- Barber
Shop in a "D-1" Professional Office District.................................................2
B. SLU-4-2008, 5405 S. ML King Blvd., Special Land Use Permit -
Telecommunications Tower in an "A" Residential District..............................3
C. Z-8-2008, Ottawa/Butler/Sycamore/Ionia, "C" Residential, "DM-3" Residential
& "D-1" Professional Office Districts to "DM-1" Residential & "F-1" Commercial
Districts.................................................................................... .........4
5. COMMENTS FROM THE AUDIENCE (Please limit comments to 3 minutes per person)
6. RECESS
7. BUSINESS
A. Consent Items
1. Minutes for Approval: August 5, 2008...........................................5
B. Committee Reports
1. Zoning and Ordinance Committee
Next meeting, Wednesday, September 10, 2008, at 4:00 p.m.
316 N. Capitol Avenue, Department Conference Room
2. Urban Development Committee
Next meeting, Tuesday, August 26, 2008, at 4:00 p.m.
316 N. Capitol Avenue, Department Conference Room
Approved as written 9-2-08 Draft to Clerk August 26,2008
Approved September 2, 2008
To Clerk September 9, 2008
Minutes of the Regular Meeting
LANSING PLANNING BOARD
6:30 p.m., Main Level
Fire Station #1, Community Room ,
120 E. Shiawassee Street CIO
Tuesday, August 19, 2008 0
1. OPENING SESSION " ' :
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The meeting was called to order at 6:35 p.m. by Mr. Frederick, Chair.
A. Roll call: Present: Frederick, Bruch, Cordill, Williams, Nelson (arrived
6:40 p.m.).
B. Staff Attending: Stachowiak, Stanich.
C. Excused absences: Ruge, Tobe.
D. Absent: Graham.
2. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Ms. Stachowiak requested SLU-3-2008 and SLU-4-2008 be added to the
Consent Agenda.
Mr. Williams made a motion, seconded by Ms. Nelson to approve the agenda as
amended. On a voice vote, the motion carried unanimously (5-0).
3. COMMUNICATIONS — None.
4. HEARINGS
A. SLU-3-2008, 914 N. Washington Avenue, Special Land Use Permit
Barber Shop in a "D-1" Professional Office District
This is a request by Jennifer Lusby to utilize the building at 914 N.
Washington Avenue for a barber shop. Barber shops are permitted in the
"D-1" Professional Office district, which is the designation of the subject
property, if a Special Land Use permit is approved by the Lansing City
Council. Ms. Stachowiak gave a brief overview.
Dr. Bruch inquired about the number of parking spaces needed for this
property. Ms. Stachowiak stated that the code requires six parking spaces
for the proposed use.
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES August 19, 2008 Page 2
Mr. Charles Bowering, Representative for Ms. Lusby (his daughter)
and resident of 914 N. Washington Avenue, stated that the property
allows the applicant and her husband to realize their dream of opening a
barber shop in the Old Town area. The property was purchased on July
17th and the applicant filed for a special land use on the same day. They
have talked with the neighbors about the barber shop, have cleaned up the
property and made improvements to the buildings (house and carriage
house). The property would have a feel of an "old time" barber shop with
modern amenities. He requested approval of proposal.
Ms. Cordill asked about the mature spruce tree in the front yard. Mr.
Bowering stated that the tree was already removed. He contacted the City
of Lansing and asked about relocating it. The City did not want it for
relocation. He stated that the tree had to be removed because of the new
drive way on the south side of the property. They will be adding new
landscaping.
Dr. Bruch asked if there would be any shade trees around the parking lot in
the back. Mr. Bowering stated that it is shaded most of the day.
Dr. Bruch stated that trees need to be added to the rear of the site.
Seeing no one else wishing to speak, Mr. Frederick closed the public
hearing for SLU-3-2008, 914 N. Washington Avenue, Special Land Use
Permit - Barber Shop in a "D-1" Professional Office District and referred
the case to the Committee of the Whole for discussion this evening.
B. SLU-4-2008, 5405 S. ML King Blvd., Special Land Use Permit -
Telecommunications Tower in an "A" Residential District
This is a request by Vertical Properties for a special land use permit to
construct a 155 foot high, monopole, telecommunications tower in the rear
yard at 5405 S. ML King Blvd. The area of the site where the tower would
be located is zoned "A" Residential district, which permits public/private
utility facilities, with a special land use permit, if approved by the Lansing
City Council. Ms. Stachowiak gave a brief overview.
Dr. Bruch asked about the height of the Consumer's tower to the south. Ms.
Stachowiak stated that this tower would be taller and that the higher the
tower the fewer towers needed in a given area. There would be more co-
locations.
Ms. Cordill asked about the size of the compound. Mr. Hodges stated that
the compounds are usually 50 feet by 50 feet. This is a larger tower so that
it can accommodate all of the co-location user boxes.
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES August 19, 2008 Page 3
Ms. Cordill asked about landscaping and buffering. Mr. Frederick stated
that the landscaping and buffering would hide the compound area when it
matures.
Ms. Nelson asked about the health impact of all the towers. Mr. Hodges
stated that it would be less than that of a cell phone or microwave and that
having more height would allow more carriers.
Seeing no one else wishing to speak, Mr. Frederick closed the public
hearing for SLU-4-2008, 5405 S. ML King Blvd., Special Land Use Permit
- Telecommunications Tower in an "A" Residential District and referred
the case to the Committee of the Whole for discussion this evening.
C. Z-8-2008, Ottawa/Butler/Sycamore/Ionia, "C" Residential, "DM-3"
Residential & "D-1" Professional Office Districts, to "DM-1" Residential
& 7-1" Commercial District
This is a request by Sycamore Street Partners, LLC, to rezone the property
bounded by Ionia St. to the north, Ottawa St. to the south, Butler Blvd. to the
west and Sycamore St. to the east, with the exception of the properties at
217 N. Sycamore, the north 66 feet of the south 132 feet of 227 N.
Sycamore, 727 & 733 W. Ionia and 732 W. Ottawa Street, more specifically
described as:
Lots 1 & 3, Block 90, Original Plat and Lot 1 except the East 92.25 feet
of the West 148.5 feet, also Lot 2 except the east 15 feet thereof, and
except the East 55 feet of the West 115 feet of the South 148.5 feet,
also Lots 3 & 4, Block 4, Claypool Subdivision, City of Lansing, Ingham
Co., MI
from "C" Residential, "DM-3" Residential and "D-1" Professional Office
Districts to "DM-1" Residential district. The purpose of rezoning the above
described property is to accommodate a multi-unit, residential condominium
development that would have a density of approximately 15 units per acre.
The applicant is also requesting that the property located at the northwest
corner of W. Ottawa and N. Sycamore Street, more specifically described
as:
The East 15 feet of Lot 2, Block 4, Claypool Subdivision and Lots 5 &
6, Block 90, Original Plat, City of Lansing, Ingham Co., MI
be rezoned from "DM-3" Residential and "D-1" Professional Office district to
"F-1" Commercial district in order to accommodate a mixed use
(commercial, residential, office) building with associated site improvements.
Ms. Stachowiak gave a brief overview.
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES August 19, 2008 Page 4
Ms. Cordill asked if anything would be removed from the site. Mr.
Townsend stated that two vacant houses (810 and 808 Ottawa Street) will
be removed.
Ms. Nelson asked if the two homes that were red-tagged were livable. Mr.
Townsend stated that the two homes were not habitable.
Mr. Frederick stated that he lives in Printer's Row and that he is not
benefiting from this development in any way.
Mr. Gene Townsend, Sycamore Street Partners LLC and resident of
815 Bancroft Street, stated that the goals are to have an anchor site close
to the downtown area and near State properties. They are considering two
concepts and his development would have first floor commercial uses
regardless of which concept they use. There would be parking. They were
approached by a trade company for an office use but it is not a done deal.
They want to preserve a vista in front of the building to maintain setback
patterns in the area. They would start with a 12-unit building and will not
build a mixed use building right away as they do not want empty retail
space.
Ms. Nelson stated that the conceptual plan of the building does not seem
compatible with the Victorian homes in the neighborhood. Mr. Frederick
stated that the Board is not here to approve the project, only the re-zoning.
Mr. Townsend stated that the architecture will transition between Ottawa
Street to Ionia Street, from institutional to Victorian residential.
Dr. Bruch asked if the northwest drive would be eliminated. Mr. Townsend
stated that the Fire Department requires access within 150 feet from every
side of a building. Ms. Cordill stated that it is a thoughtful plan.
Mr. Dave Muylle, resident of 124 Regent Street and owner of 723 W.
Shiawassee, asked if Pine Lodge would stay. Mr. Townsend stated that
they have a contract until 2009 and after that he is not sure.
Mr. Muylle asked about rental units. Mr. Townsend stated that he is not
planning on it and that these would all be condominiums.
Mr. Muylle asked about a time line for the development. Mr. Townsend
stated that it would depend on financing.
Mr. Muylle asked when they would break ground. Mr. Townsend stated that
the goal is for this year and that it would take 4 years to build and sell
everything. The price range would be between $150,000 to $250,000.
There would be 1 to 4 bedroom units with interior parking spaces for each
unit. These units would not have basements. There will be 2 large
buildings that will have underground parking.
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES August 19, 2008 Page 5
Seeing no one else wishing to speak, Mr. Frederick closed the public
hearing for Z-8-2008, Ottawa/Butler/Sycamore/lonia, "C" Residential,
"DM-3" Residential & "D-1" Professional Office Districts, to "DM-1"
Residential & 7-1" Commercial District and referred the case to the next
Planning Board meeting on September 2nd, for a Committee of the Whole
discussion.
5. COMMENTS FROM THE AUDIENCE (3 minutes each)
Seeing no one wishing to address the Board, Mr. Frederick closed the public
comment period.
6. RECESS was not taken by the Board.
7. BUSINESS SESSION
A. Consent Items
1. Minutes for Approval: August 5, 2008
The minutes of August 5, 2008 were
APPROVED w/o objection.
2. SLU-3-2008, 914 N. Washington Avenue, Special Land Use
Permit Barber Shop in a "D-1" Professional Office District
This is a request by Jennifer Lusby to utilize the building at 914 N.
Washington Avenue for a barber shop. Barber shops are permitted
in the "D-1" Professional Office district, which is the designation of
the subject property, if a Special Land Use permit is approved by the
Lansing City Council.
APPROVED w/o objection.
3. SLU-4-2008, 5405 S. ML King Blvd., Special Land Use Permit -
Telecommunications Tower in an "A" Residential District
This is a request by Vertical Properties for a special land use permit
to construct a 155 foot high, monopole, telecommunications tower in
the rear yard at 5405 S. ML King Blvd. The area of the site where
the tower would be located is zoned "A" Residential district, which
permits public/private utility facilities, with a special land use permit, if
approved by the Lansing City Council.
APPROVED w/o objection.
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES August 19, 2008 Page 6
B. Committee Reports
1. Zoning and Ordinance Committee, Mr. Ruge
Next meeting, Wednesday, September 10, 2008, at 4:00 p.m.
316 N. Capitol Ave., Department Conference Room
2. URBAN DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE, Ms. Cordill, Chair
Next meeting, Tuesday, August 26, 2008, at 4:00 p.m.
316 N. Capitol Ave., Department Conference Room.
3. COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE
4. EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
Mr. Williams had to leave early from the meeting and therefore the Board no
longer had quorum.
C. Old Business — None.
D. Report from Planning Manager— None.
E. Pending Items: Future action required
1. Zoning and Ordinance Committee
2. Urban Development Committee
a. Master Plan Project
3. Committee of the Whole
4. Planning Board
8. NEW BUSINESS — None.
9. COMMENTS FROM CHAIRPERSON
Mr. Frederick stated that there is a dentist office in his neighborhood and one of
the patients was backing out and almost hit his dog. He is concerned about this.
Mr. Frederick stated that he appreciated the work that Ms. Stachowiak did with
the parking.
Mr. Frederick stated that the City Council approved the City Market proposal.
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES August 19, 2008 Page 7
10. COMMENTS FROM BOARD MEMBERS
Ms. Cordill requested an excused absence from t►ie September 2"d meeting. The
Board could not approve the request at this time because they did not have a
quorum.
Ms. Cordill stated that the Cedar/Cavanaugh area does not seem right for
commercial use.
Ms. Stachowiak stated that the barber shop request for 4311 S. Cedar Street has
been withdrawn because the tenants were evicted.
Ms. Nelson stated that she does not believe it will take 4 years to fill Mr.
Townsend's development with all the growth in the area.
Dr. Bruch asked if anything could be done about the radii required by the Fire
Department. Ms. Stachowiak stated that it is Fire Code and there is no room for
flexibility to change it.
Mr. Frederick stated that when the City repaved Grand Avenue and made it
wider, they needed to have a curb area between the handicap ramps.
11. BOARD MEMBER CODE ENFORCEMENT NOTIFICATION REPORTS — None.
a. Dollar Store-Willow Street&MLK Blvd. -landscaping&buffering (May 20, 2003)
b. W.Willow Street-Grace Tabernacle Church-no landscaping (May 4, 2004)
c. 2702 S. Cedar Street-no landscaping (May 18, 2004)
d. 2410 S. Pennsylvania Ave. -no landscaping (November 3, 2004)
e. 2200 W. Holmes Road- Bad Habits-excessive signs(May 3, 2005)
f. 2618 Cavanaugh Road. - registered rental&front yard paved, used for parking (October 4,2005)
g. Clarion Hotel—two big signs advertising Great Lakes Condominiums(December 5, 2006)
h. The Firm—review requirements for fenced outdoor patio(December 5, 2006)
i. Washington Square Tavern—permanent outdoor patio & inadequate room on the sidewalk (November
20, 2007)
12. ADJOURNMENT - Meeting was adjourned at 7:57 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
William C. Rieske, Secretary, Planning Board
PBMinutes.081908.doc
Approved as written 8-19-08 Draft to Clerk August 6 2008
Approved August 19,2008
To Clerk August 21 2008 7
Minutes of the Regular Meeting `-�' °�
LANSING PLANNING BOARD t
6:30 p.m., Department Conference Room
Planning and Neighborhood Development
316 N. Capitol Avenue, Suite C-2
Tuesday, August 5, 2008
1. OPENING SESSION
The meeting was called to order at 6:32 p.m. by Mr. Frederick, Chair.
A. Roll call: Present: Frederick, Bruch, Ruge, Cordill, Williams, Tobe,
Nelson, Graham.
B. Staff Attending: Stachowiak, Stanich.
C. Excused absences: None.
D. Absent: None.
2. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Mr. Frederick removed SLU-2-2008 from the consent agenda.
Mr. Williams made a motion, seconded by Ms. Nelson to approve the agenda as
amended. On a voice vote, the motion carried unanimously (8-0).
3. COMMUNICATIONS — None.
4. HEARINGS
A. SLU-2-2008, 4311 S. Cedar Street, Special Land Use Permit - Barber
Shop in a "D-1" Professional Office District
This is a request by Duane Horton to utilize the building at 4311 S. Cedar
Street for a barber shop. Barber shops are permitted in the "D-1"
Professional Office district, which is the designation of the subject property,
if a Special Land Use permit is approved by the Lansing City Council. Ms.
Stachowiak gave a brief overview and stated that parking is the only issue
with the site.
Ms. Cordill asked if parking was allowed on the service drive. Ms.
Stachowiak stated that parking is not allowed on the service drive.
Ms. Graham asked about signs along the sidewalk. Ms. Stachowiak stated
that there has been an issue with illegal signs at this location in the past.
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES August 5, 2008 Page 2
She stated that there needs to be some increased enforcement of the Sign
Ordinance in this area.
Mr. Frederick stated that the sign violations need to be enforced and that
Simplified Tax Service also has illegal signs during the tax season.
Ms. Stachowiak gave a copy of a letter from the owner of the property to
each Board member. The Board discussed concerns about interfering with
the enjoyment of the adjoining properties and buffering to the south.
Seeing no one else wishing to speak, Mr. Frederick closed the public
hearing for SLU-2-2008, 4311 S. Cedar Street, Special Land Use Permit -
Barber Shop in a "D-1" Professional Office District and referred the case
to the next Planning Board meeting for discussion under the Committee of
the Whole, on Tuesday, August 19, 2008 at 6:30 p.m. in the Community
Room at Fire Station #1, 120 E. Shiawassee Street.
5. COMMENTS FROM THE AUDIENCE (3 minutes each)
Seeing no one wishing to address the Board, Mr. Frederick closed the public
comment period.
6. RECESS was not taken by the Board.
7. BUSINESS SESSION
A. Consent Items
1. Minutes for Approval: July 15, 2008
The minutes of July 15, 2008 were
APPROVED w/o objection.
Minutes for Approval: July 22, 2008
The minutes of July 22, 2008 were
APPROVED w/o objection.
B. Committee Reports
1. Zoning and Ordinance Committee, Mr. Ruge
Next meeting, Wednesday, September 10, 2008, at 4:00 p.m.
316 N. Capitol Ave., Department Conference Room
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES August 5, 2008 Page 3
2. URBAN DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE, Ms. Cordill, Chair
Next meeting, Tuesday, August 26, 2008, at 4:00 p.m.
316 N. Capitol Ave., Department Conference Room.
3. COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE
4. EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
C. Old Business — None.
D. Report from Planning Manager— None.
E. Pending Items: Future action required
1. Zoning and Ordinance Committee
2. Urban Development Committee
a. Master Plan Project
3. Committee of the Whole
4. Planning Board
8. NEW BUSINESS — None.
9. COMMENTS FROM CHAIRPERSON — None.
10. COMMENTS FROM BOARD MEMBERS
Mr. Williams stated that he will not be able to attend the next UDC meeting.
Ms. Tobe requested an excused absence from the August 19th meeting.
Mr. Williams made a motion, seconded by Dr. Bruch to approve an excused
absence request from Ms. Tobe for the August 19th meeting. On a voice vote,
the motion carried unanimously (8-0).
Mr. Ruge requested an excused absence from the August 19th meeting.
Mr. Williams made a motion, seconded by Ms. Nelson to approve an excused
absence request from Mr. Ruge for the August 19th meeting. On a voice vote, the
motion carried unanimously (8-0).
Dr. Bruch stated that she cannot be at the Z & O meetings on Wednesday night
for the next semester. Ms. Stachowiak stated that there will be enough
committee members for a quorum.
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES August 5, 2008 Page 4
11. BOARD MEMBER CODE ENFORCEMENT NOTIFICATION REPORTS — None.
a. Dollar Store-Willow Street&MLK Blvd.-landscaping&buffering (May 20, 2003)
b. W.Willow Street-Grace Tabernacle Church-no landscaping (May 4, 2004)
c. 2702 S. Cedar Street-no landscaping (May 18, 2004)
d. 2410 S. Pennsylvania Ave. -no landscaping (November 3, 2004)
e. 2200 W. Holmes Road- Bad Habits-excessive signs(May 3,2005)
f. 2618 Cavanaugh Road.-registered rental&front yard paved, used for parking (October 4,2005)
g. Clarion Hotel—two big signs advertising Great Lakes Condominiums (December 5,2006)
h. The Firm—review requirements for fenced outdoor patio(December 5, 2006)
i. Washington Square Tavern—permanent outdoor patio& inadequate room on the sidewalk (November
20, 2007)
Ms. Nelson asked about items h and i. Ms. Stachowiak stated that Mr. Rieske is
working on both items.
Ms. Cordill asked about an old service station located on Grand River, west of
High Street and east of Pennsylvania Avenue, that has vehicles on blocks. Mr.
Frederick stated that the Code Compliance Office will not enforce the code on
abandoned vehicles unless the tires are flat.
Mr. Williams asked for someone from the Code Compliance Office to attend a
meeting to answer questions.
12. ADJOURNMENT - Meeting was adjourned at 6:57 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
William C. Rieske, Secretary, Planning Board
PBMinutes.080508.doc
Approved as written 8-5-08 Draft to Clerk July 29, 2008
Approved August 5, 2008
To Clerk August 7, 2008
Minutes of the Regular Meeting
LANSING PLANNING BOARD
6:30 p.m., Second Level
The Lansing Center, Governor's Room cz
333 E. Michigan Avenue ' '.]
Tuesday, July 22, 2008 ,C-
1. OPENING SESSION
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The meeting was called to order at 6:30 p.m. by Mr. Frederick, Chair. a
A. Roll call: Present: Frederick, Cordill, Williams, Tobe, Nelson, Graham.
B. Staff Attending: Stachowiak, Rieske.
C. Excused absences: Bruch, Ruge.
D. Absent: None.
2. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Mr. Williams made a motion, seconded by Ms. Nelson to approve the agenda.
On a voice vote, the motion carried unanimously (6-0).
3. COMMUNICATIONS
A. Letter of support from the Northtown Neighborhood Association regarding
ACT-4-2008
B. Letter of opposition from Joel Wiese regarding ACT-4-2008
C. Email from T. Fancy Downing stating that she should have disclosed that
she works for the Gillespie Group
4. HEARINGS — None.
5. COMMENTS FROM THE AUDIENCE (3 minutes each)
Mr. Pat Gillespie, of Gillespie Group, 2501 Coolidge, stated that he is here
tonight to answer questions.
Ms. Priscilla Holmes, resident of 135 Island Avenue, stated that she works for
a vendor at the City Market and that she is concerned about the development
agreement. In the agreement there is a conflict about the amount of square
footage and that Mr. Gillespie becomes the landlord. She is concerned about
what would happen to the tenants.
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES July 22, 2008 Page 2
Ms. Vickie Unferth, resident of 617 N. Jenison Street, stated that she has
been to several markets. Lansing's market is hard to find and will likely not
become a regional attraction. It is for locals and the current market is fine.
Ms. Kathy Kuhn, resident of 731 W. Genesee, stated that she is a vendor at
the City Market and would like to see the City invest in the current market. She is
opposed to the market proposal. She submitted a petition and stated that most
people do not favor this proposal. The media has not done a good job of
presenting this proposal.
Mr. David Weliky, resident of 1612 Forbes Street, stated that the meeting
notice was not posted on the website.
Kris Zawisza, resident of 322 Westmoreland Avenue, stated that he was given
a short notice on the meeting.
Mr. Carl Calille, resident of 306 Harriet Avenue, stated that he is concerned
about parking for the market and that the proposed development will have
significantly less parking than what currently exists. He heard that a section of
the river trail will be used by the vendors. He stated that the project does not
include a labor agreement and that he is a union representative.
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. Consent Items
1. Minutes for Approval: July 1, 2008
The minutes of July 1, 2008 were
APPROVED w/o objection.
2. ACT-7-2008, Owens St. W of Comfort St., Vacate ROW
This is a request by John and Virginia Pettinger,1800 Bassett,
Lansing, MI that the city vacate a 16,320 sq. ft. (50' x 326.4') ROW,
unimproved portion, of the northern part of Owens Street, west of
Comfort. The applicant owns the majority of the surrounding area
with the exception of several residential structures to the north and
south and the Bassett Road properties to the south of the subject
property. The applicant proposes that the City vacate the ROW in
order to make room for additional manufacturing.
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES JuIV 22, 2008 Page 3
Staff recommended approval of ACT-7-2008, to vacate a 10,320 sq.
ft. ROW, unimproved portion, of the northern parts of Owens Street,
west of Comfort Street, the rear portion only, with the condition that
easements for all utilities, if needed, are reserved. (The Urban
Development Committee had recommended this case for approval at
its June 24, 2008 meeting.)
APPROVED w/o discussion
B. Committee Reports
1. Zoning and Ordinance Committee, Mr. Frederick
Next meeting, Wednesday, August 13, 2008, at 4:00 p.m.,
316 N. Capitol Ave., Department Conference Room
2. URBAN DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE, Ms. Cordill, Chair
Next meeting, Tuesday, August 26, 2008, at 4:00 p.m.,
316 N. Capitol Ave., Department Conference Room.
Mr. Williams made a motion, seconded by Ms. Nelson to dissolve into the Committee of
the Whole. On a voice vote, the motion carried unanimously (6-0).
3a. COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE
a. ACT-4-2008, 420 E. Shiawassee, Lansing City Market
proposal
This is a request by the City of Lansing Planning and
Neighborhood Development Department to: 1) Relocate the
City Market operations, currently located at 420 E.
Shiawassee Street, onto park property located west of the
current City Market parking lot, and 2) Make the current City
Market property available for sale for a mixed-use private
development (including retail, office, housing, and parking), in
accordance with the Central Lansing Comprehensive Plan,
and to provide for easements as necessary to facilitate the
proposed development. Mr. Rieske gave a brief overview.
Mr. Frederick stated that he has had a lot of time to think
about this proposal and that it complies with the Master Plan in
every aspect except historic preservation. The trade off is to
get the site environment cleaned up and economic
development is required to get contamination cleaned up. The
Saginaw Aquifer is close to the ground level and
contaminating ground water would have a huge impact on
Lansing. He stated that flood proofing can be done if
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES July 22, 2008 Page 4
adequate plans have been made. The new market is a good
addition to the City and he agrees that there should be a
business plan.
Mr. Frederick made a motion, seconded by Ms. Nelson to recommend approval of
ACT-4-2008, 420 E. Shiawassee, Lansing City Market proposal. On a voice vote,
the motion carried unanimously (6-0).
Ms. Cordill made a motion, seconded by Ms. Nelson to arise from the Committee of the
Whole. On a voice vote, the motion carried unanimously (6-0).
3b. COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE
a. ACT-4-2008, 420 E. Shiawassee, Lansing City Market
Proposal
This is a request by the City of Lansing Planning and
Neighborhood Development Department to: 1) Relocate the
City Market operations, currently located at 420 E.
Shiawassee Street, onto park property located west of the
current City Market parking lot, and 2) Make the current City
Market property available for sale for a mixed-use private
development (including retail, office, housing, and parking), in
accordance with the Central Lansing Comprehensive Plan,
and to provide easements as necessary to facilitate the
proposed development. Mr. Rieske gave a brief overview.
Mr. Frederick stated that the only market he has been to that
does have parking is in Okemos. With the Eastern Market in
Detroit, you cannot get parking within six blocks.
Ms. Tobe asked if the clean-up will not take place if the current
market remains.
Mr. Frederick stated that it would be effective to do it the way it
is now.
Mr. Joel Wiese stated that clean-up is not required if the
market remains and the contamination is not moving; it is
static.
Ms. Nelson stated that the current market is deteriorated as a
result of lack of maintenance.
Mr. Frederick stated that there is not a risk to take because
MDEQ says the contamination will not move. If there is an
opportunity to clean it up, then it should be done.
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES July 22, 2008 Page 5
Ms. Cordill stated that she is concerned about parking. Mr.
Hooper stated that they will have to be creative with parking
but the customers will have 60 parking spaces.
Mr. Williams stated that he appreciates all of the interest in this
matter and that he appreciates Mr. Gillespie's investments in
Lansing. He hopes that it will be as successful as the Stadium
District. He hopes that the parking issue can be resolved
quickly. He stated that there is more than enough parking in
downtown Lansing and in fact, there may be too much. These
types of projects are good economic development and he
supports the project.
Mr. Williams made a motion, seconded by Ms. Nelson, to recommend approval of
ACT-4-2008, 420 E. Shiawassee, Lansing City Market Proposal.
Frederick . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Aye Cordill. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ave
Williams . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Aye Tobe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ave
Nelson. . . Ave Graham. . . Ave
On a roll call vote, there were: Ayes: 6; Nays: 0, unanimous.
Approved.
4. EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
C. Old Business — None.
D. Report from Planning Manager
Mr. Rieske stated that he appreciates all of the public's participation on this
project.
E. Pending Items: Future action required
1. Zoning and Ordinance Committee
2. Urban Development Committee
a. Master Plan Project
3. Committee of the Whole
4. Planning Board
8. NEW BUSINESS — None.
9. COMMENTS FROM CHAIRPERSON — None.
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES July 22, 2008 Page 6
10. COMMENTS FROM BOARD MEMBERS — None.
11. BOARD MEMBER CODE ENFORCEMENT NOTIFICATION REPORTS — None.
a. Dollar Store-Willow Street& MLK Blvd. -landscaping &buffering (May 20, 2003)
b. W.Willow Street-Grace Tabernacle Church-no landscaping (May 4, 2004)
c. 2702 S. Cedar Street- no landscaping (May 18, 2004)
d. 2410 S. Pennsylvania Ave. - no landscaping (November 3, 2004)
e. 2200 W. Holmes Road- Bad Habits-excessive signs (May 3, 2005)
f. 2618 Cavanaugh Road. - registered rental&front yard paved, used for parking (October 4,2005)
g. Clarion Hotel—two big signs advertising Great Lakes Condominiums (December 5, 2006)
h. The Firm—review requirements for fenced outdoor patio(December 5, 2006)
i. Washington Square Tavern—permanent outdoor patio & inadequate room on the sidewalk (November
20, 2007)
12. ADJOURNMENT - Meeting was adjourned at 7:23 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
c�,
William C. Rieske, Secretary, Planning Board
PBMinutes.072208.doc
Approved as written 8-5-08 Draft to Clerk July 21,2008
Approved August 5,2008
To Clerk August 7, 2008
Minutes of the Regular Meeting
LANSING PLANNING BOARD
ram.
6:30 p.m., Second Level r ''
The Lansing Center, Governor's Room
333 E. Michigan Avenue
Tuesday, July 15, 2008
1. OPENING SESSION
The meeting was called to order at 6:45 p.m. by Mr. Frederick, Chair.
A. Roll call: Present: Frederick, Williams, Graham, Nelson.
B. Staff Attending: Rieske, Stachowiak
C. Excused: Bruch, Ruge, Cordill, Tobe
D. Absent: None.
The Board did not have a quorum. Mr. Frederick announced that the Board
would only accept public comments, but would not conduct any business.
2. COMMUNICATIONS
A. Letter from Julann Vittone in opposition to ACT-4-2008.
B. Letter from Lucy Hartlove in opposition to ACT-4-2008.
C. Unsigned position paper regarding ACT-4-2008.
3. COMMENTS FROM THE AUDIENCE (3 minutes each)
Mr. Perry Godwin, 800 Bancroft Court, spoke in support of Act-4-08, Lansing
City Market proposal. Mr. Perry stated that a new, environmentally efficient City
Market leads to lower operating costs, which leads to lower costs for the vendors
and patrons. He stated that it would be too costly for the City to make the
necessary alterations on the existing building to make it efficient.
Mr. Kris Zawisza, 322 Westmoreland, spoke regarding Act-4-08, Lansing City
Market proposal. Mr. Zawisza stated that the staff report does not address the
development agreement and he does not know how the Board can make a
decision on this matter without a review of the development agreement.
Resident of 1210 W. Shiawassee, stated that there is a new Public Act that
restricts the destruction of historically significant buildings and may prevent future
construction of residential uses on the City Market land.
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES July 15, 2008 Page 2
Kathi Raffone, 1221 Muskegon Avenue, spoke in opposition to ACT-4-2008.
She stated that there are too many unanswered questions and that she is
opposed to the demolition of a historic public building.
Tim Sanbaer, 1917 Kingswood Drive, spoke in support of ACT-4-2008. He
stated that the new market will be a place in the downtown where she can take
her children.
James Anderson, 968 Roxburgh, East Lansing, MSU Professor, spoke about
the impact of development in the floodplain. He spoke about the current flooding
in Iowa and stated that other states are removing structures in floodplain areas.
Emily Wenstrom, 210 S. Washington Sq., Apt. B, spoke in support of ACT-4-
2008 and stated that these types of developments are making the downtown a
move livable place.
David Vanderklok, 1114 S. Washington Avenue, Architect representing Pat
Gillespie, stated that he has been working with MDEQ to ensure that the
proposed development will comply with all rules and regulations for construction
in the floodplain. He stated that there is no floodway on the property and only a
small portion of the northwest corner of the building will be in the 100 year
floodplain; the remainder of the building will be in the 500 year floodplain. Mr.
Vanderklok stated that the first floor elevation of the new building will be located
30 inches above the base flood elevation which is 18 inches higher than what is
required by MDEQ.
David Weliky, 1612 Forbes Street, spoke in opposition to ACT-4-2008. He
stated that the Seattle Market was renovated and made part of a historic district.
There was a proposal to build a new market in Seattle years ago and it was voted
down by the citizens.
Jesse Keys, 1408 W. Kalamazoo Street, spoke in opposition to ACT-4-2008.
He stated that the proposed plan is not workable as there will not be adequate
parking to accommodate all of the proposed uses.
Heather Beegle, 2401 Kerry Street, spoke in support of ACT-4-2008. She
stated that a new City Market is necessary since the existing market is deficient
in meeting the needs of the citizens and vendors. She stated that this is a good
opportunity for the City to improve the livability of the downtown area.
Jim Smith, 1618 Osband Street, spoke in support of ACT-4-2008. He stated
that the proposed development is progress and he hopes that the City does not
deny this request just because a few people are opposed. Mr. Smith stated that
Pat Gillespie has proven that he is a responsible developer in the City of Lansing.
Trish LaPorte, 6300 Heathfield, East Lansing, spoke in support of ACT-4-
2008. Ms. LaPorte stated that she grew up in Lansing and feels that the
downtown could benefit from this type of development.
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES July 15, 2008 Page 3
Pat Gillespie, 2501 Coolidge Road, East Lansing, stated that they will satisfy
the City parking requirement and that it would not be smart to have less parking
than what is needed to support the development as it would not succeed without
adequate parking. There are ways to deal with parking in urban settings and he
has experience in doing so with the Stadium District projects as well as other
developments outside of Lansing.
Harry Hepler, P.O. Box 12142, spoke in support of ACT-4-2008 and stated that
the City of Lansing is subsidizing the existing market and cannot afford to keep
doing so. He also stated that the current building is poorly designed and is
uninviting to customers. The flood issues are easily resolved and are not
something that should prevent the development. While he would prefer a 3-
season, open-air market, he supports this proposal.
Jason Vandershelt, 1145 Carlisle Hwy. Charlotte, spoke in support of ACT-4-
2008 and stated that this type of development benefits the entire greater Lansing
area. The proposed project is an efficient use of the City Market land and the
developer seems to have a very good reputation and track record in Lansing.
David Finet, 5007 W. Columbia, Mason, spoke regarding ACT-4-2008 and
stated that he is the manager of the East Lansing Food Co-op. He is opposed to
the project unless the new space is comparable to the existing market space.
Mark Lederbuhr, 2519 Wilson Street, stated that he is generally in support of
ACT-4-2008 and that Mr. Gillespie has done a good job in Lansing but he is
concerned about the loss of the City Market space.
Andraya lams, 142 Okemos Road, Mason, spoke in support of AcCT4-2008.
She has a 4 year old son and this is an opportunity to have a place in downtown
Lansing where she can bring him. Ms. lams stated that this is a great
opportunity for the City to have a market that would attract people from all over
the region.
Kathie Kuhn, 731 W. Genesee, spoke in opposition to Act-4-08. She stated that
she is a vendor at the city market and feels that there is no reason to build a new
market. Ms. Kuhn said that the city has abandoned the market so that they can
justify tearing it down. She said that the city needs to support the current market
so that it can continue and succeed well into the future.
Joel Wiese, 311 Strathmore Road, spoke in opposition to Act-4-2008. He
stated that he has been looking at the development agreement and there are
several discrepancies. The development agreement is written to allow the
development rather than to do what is best for the City. He said that the
agreement states that Mr. Gillespie will be the landlord and can evict everyone
from the building after 5 months.
John Hooper, 8855 Musgrove, Sunfield, stated that he is the manager of the
City Market and over the past few months, he has listened objectively to all of the
information that has been presented. He had determined that the new
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES July 15, 2008 Page 4
development is what is in the best interest of the City and that the new building,
much like the existing building, will be in the 500 year floodplain rather than the
100 year floodplain. The proposed market will be comparable in size to the
existing market in terms of rentable space. He acknowledged that the developer
will have to be creative in order to provide adequate parking but this is not
unusual in urban settings. He stated that the Seattle market has no parking and
it is very successful.
Vince Villegas, 128 N. Magnolia Street, spoke in support of ACT-4-2008. He
stated that there are 2,000 vacant jobs in the City of Lansing and people who
could work here are choosing to leave for "cool cities" like Chicago. The Stadium
District has brought people downtown, but the existing market is not attracting
customers from inside or outside the city.
Seeing no one else wishing to address the Board, Mr. Frederick closed the public
comment period.
4. ADJOURNMENT - Meeting was adjourned at 7:45 p.m.
Respec ully submitted
I
,
William C. Rieske, Secretary, Planning Board
PBMinutes.071508.doc