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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes - Planning Commission - 12/08/2015 SOUTH BURLINGTON PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES 8 DECEMBER 2015 The South Burlington Planning Commission held a regular meeting on Tuesday, 8 December 2015, at 7:00 p.m., in the Conference Room, City Hall, 575 Dorset Street. MEMBERS PRESENT: J. Louisos, Chair; T. Harrington, T. Riehle, B. Gagnon, S. Quest, D. MacDonald, A. Klugo ALSO PRESENT: P. Conner, Director of Planning & Zoning 1. Agenda: Additions, deletions or changes in order of agenda items: Ms. Quest asked if a road is on the official city map, can a developer just build it. Mr. Conner explained that it would be part of a development project. Typically, something of that scale would go through a traffic study by the developer and probably an independent technical review. Mr. Conner added that when it is on the official city map, it is considered to be a policy of the city. He noted that the Swift St. Extension has been in every Comprehensive Plan since 1960. 2. Open to the public for items not related to the agenda: No issues were raised. 3. Planning Commissioner announcements and staff reports: Ms. Louisos said she had advised the City Council that the Commission has received the final report from the Sustainable Agriculture Subcommittee. Mr. Riehle distributed an article regarding making a living from small plots of land. Ms. Quest said she attended an energy-related event that included workshops on climate change. Ms. Harrington reported that at last night’s City Council meeting she provided the background regarding the J.M. Golf amendments. A question was raised regarding whether the 2011 vote was binding or non-binding. The Council is asking for guidance on this from the City Attorney and will take up the issue again on 21 December. Mr. Conner: attended a meeting last week regarding a possible homeless shelter in South Burlington. The City Council and School Board are hearing a discussion regarding the potential legalization of marijuana and what could happen if that legislation goes through including impacts on the real estate market (e.g., warehousing space). Will attend the Planners Workshop on Friday. The focus is on stormwater. At last night’s City Council meeting, the Air Guard answered questions regarding noise and how various parties can work together on these issues. The City Council also had a presentation from the Chair of the Recreation and Leisure Arts Committee regarding a park at Baycrest. Mr. Conner noted the Comprehensive Plan includes an objective for a park within a quarter mile of homes. Staff is looking to put a renewal of the New Town Center before the City Council, expanding the area to include UMall. This would allow TIF funds to be used on additional properties. The DRB has gotten large applications for development on Shelburne Road, one from Eric Farrell for 65 housing units and one from Larkin for housing units, an extended stay hotel and some commercial (with a parking garage). 4. Discuss Planning and Work Priorities for 2016-7: Members were asked to brainstorm whatever is on their minds so that at the next meeting the Commission can set its objectives for the next 18 months. The following ideas were presented: a. Official map/east-west roads b. Master Plan criteria c. View criteria d. Food hubs/farm stores e. South Village f. TDRs city-wide g. Neighborhood nodes h. Form based codes city-wide i. Areas that are “irreversible” (parks, open space; allowing for creative development; small parks, places to meet the changing demographics and needs of an urban area) Mr. Klugo cited the need to plan for the layout for this so there is an expectation of where there will be parks, etc. j. Transportation, interconnection of parks, etc.; multi-modal transportation k. Building along revers; erosion concerns; river corridor standards l. Permit fees (be competitive but not just “average” m. Revenue overall n. Redefine open space so that it is usable and quality, city-wide o. “what’s missing where?” p. Sustainable Agriculture items q. Address Act 250/master plan loopholes r. Solar farms planning/siting in green areas s. Usable open space t. Redevelopment, how to allow greater densities outside of City Center; infill u. Business parks – dynamic mix of uses v. How to link all the city’s efforts together w. Proactive on future development of waterfront x. Consider redefining density by square footage instead of units y. Finish natural resource protective standards z. Meet with DRB regarding issues that arise in hearings aa. Update traffic overlay districts bb. Building heights in higher density areas cc. Industrial‐open space: be sure there is space for “industry” dd. Form based code edits ee. Parking standards ff. Public/private investments gg. Affordable housing outside City Center hh. Shelburne Road issues Mr. Conner suggested ways to prioritize these considerations including: timing, relative size of the project, what’s related, reducing the tax burden, legal exposure, things already in the “hopper,” funding availability. Mr. Klugo questioned how to do the long-range, proactive things while focusing on the immediate. Mr. Conner felt that was a good discussion for the Commission to have. He added that staff issued an RFQ for “on call” planning services to be able to more effectively complete projects. Regarding requests for amendments to the LDRs from the community, it is up to the Commission as to how to schedule requests that come in and how to manage their time. 5. CCRPC Unified Planning Work Program projects: status reports on current projects and review proposed FY17 requests: Mr. Conner reminded the Commission that every year they come up with a list of grant requests for the Council to consider and approve. He said that he had spoken with the Regional Planning Commission regarding some potential ones for next year. He asked members to review the list and decide their priorities at the next meeting. One thing staff will be asking for is a revision of the impact fee ordinance. 6. Other Business: a. Upcoming Meetings: The next meeting is on 15 December with the City Council to address the Comprehensive Plan. Ms. Louisos will work with staff on this. 7. Minutes of 20 October and 24 November 2015: It was noted that in the minutes of 20 October, p. 4, the name of the person from the Airport was Amanda Corrente. On the top of p. 6, it was noted that the amount of square footage required per child has changed. In the middle of that page, regarding South Village, the sentence should read “…residents have control of the HOA.” In the minutes of 24 November, p. 4, Ms. Louisos had noted that with regard to one-story buildings, there already are a few. It was also agreed to strike the last line in the second paragraph on p. 3. Ms. Quest moved to approve the Minutes of 20 October and 24 November as amended. Mr. MacDonald seconded. Motion passed unanimously. Mr. Conner reminded members that there is no meeting on 22 December. The next regular Planning Commission meeting will be on 12 January 2016. As there was no further business to come before the Commission, the meeting was adjourned by common consent at 9:20 p.m. _________________________________ Clerk Published by ClerkBase ©2019 by Clerkbase. No Claim to Original Government Works. 575 Dorset Street South Burlington, VT 05403 tel 802.846.4106 fax 802.846.4101 www.sburl.com MEMORANDUM TO: South Burlington Planning Commission FROM: Paul Conner, Director of Planning & Zoning SUBJECT: December 8, 2015 Planning Commission meeting 1. Agenda: Additions, deletions or changes in order of agenda items (7:00 pm) 2. Open to the public for items not related to the agenda (7:02 pm) 3. Planning Commissioner announcements and staff report (7:05 pm) 4. Discuss Planning & Work Priorities for 2016-2017 (7:15 pm) At this meeting, Commissioners are encouraged to engage in a discussion about your planning priorities over the next year and a half. To help you with this, we’ve provided a couple of documents that you have prepared over the past few years that include many of the possible projects: • The list of strategies from the Draft Comprehensive Plan • The list of action items from the 3 Interim Zoning Committee reports that were assigned to the Commission • A running possible project and “to-do” list that the Commission had previously maintained, before the IZ projects took hold. For this last one, staff has updated the “status” of each but the rest of the list is from 2011. Staff is recommending that Commissioners review all of these and come prepared to the meeting to discuss priorities for the next 18 months. Staff will also bring a list to the meeting, which will be based on grants the city has received, priorities (such as the City Center Master Plan) already established, and, based on our observations, some of the areas of our planning & zoning that have pressing items. Based on Tuesday’s discussion, staff will go back and prepare a draft project list for your consideration at the next meeting. 5. CCRPC Unified Planning Work Program projects: status report on current projects and review proposed FY’17 requests See enclosed memo 6. Other Business (8:20 pm) 2 a. Discuss Draft Land Development Regulation & Official Map presentation to City Council on December 21st 7. Minutes (8:30 pm) – October 20, November 24 8. Adjourn (8:30 pm) *****STRATEGIES****** POPULATION STRATEGIES P. 2-9 1. Monitor the rate of population growth and land use development on an annual basis, as measured over 10-year averages. 2. Use growth management techniques, such as development phasing and sewer allocations, to ensure that the rate of development does not outstrip the city’s ability to provide services in a cost-effective manner. 3. Regularly evaluate the impacts of changes in population and housing growth rates for their financial and programmatic impacts on city services. HOUSING STRATEGIES P. 2-16 4. Implement a variety of tools and programs to foster innovative approaches to preserving and increasing the city’s supply of affordable and moderate income housing, including but not limited to: form-based codes that would allow a variety of residential and mixed use building types, transferable development rights, neighborhood preservation overlay districts, strict and precise household/family definition regulations, inclusionary zoning, bonuses and incentives, waivers and expedited review processes, and/or a housing retention ordinance. 5. Increase the supply of safe and affordable rental housing by allowing higher-density, mixed-use and mixed-income development within City Center and transit corridors, allowing multi-unit housing within transitional zones between residential neighborhoods and commercial/industrial land uses. 6. Promote the preservation of existing housing stock in residential neighborhoods, particularly the supply of affordable and moderately-priced homes. 7. Accommodate compatible infill and additions to homes in existing neighborhoods. 8. Explore innovative land development regulations that allow for a range of residential building and neighborhood types, including but not limited to cottage housing, clustered housing and infill residential development. 9. Streamline administrative policy for affordable housing and consider reducing or eliminating permit and impact fees for affordable housing. 10. Develop strategies that can lead to the availability or development of more housing that is affordable to middle income, working residents and families in the City. Work through the CCRPC with surrounding communities to increase the inventory of housing that is more affordable to families. Consider development of a program that enables “empty nesters” occupying “family” sized housing to comfortably downsize into a multi-family unit that may be available nearby keeping them in their neighborhood but freeing the former home up for new generations of young families. 11. Study the need for the City to adopt and enforce local building, plumbing, electrical, fire, and energy codes; Study the need for a rental registry program, and strengthen the enforcement of the City’s land development regulations and state’s rental housing code to protect residents’ health and safety and preserve the quality of life in and character of the City’s residential neighborhoods. 12. Promote the construction of new homes- particularly affordable and moderate-income units- that are highly energy-efficient, and upgrades to existing homes to make them more energy- efficient, which will reduce residents’ overall cost of living and contribute to housing affordability. 13. Target for construction, by 2025, of 1,080 new affordable housing units - 840 housing units affordable to households earning up to 80% of the AMI and 240 housing units affordable to households earning between 80% and 120% of the AMI. ECONOMY STRATEGIES P. 2-22 14. Engage in an active employer visitation program where senior City staff is meeting on a regular basis with South Burlington businesses in order to understand the factors, pressures and opportunities that affect their growth and prosperity. Focus discussions with employers on initiatives that the City can take to support the growth of their business. Consider sector-wide meetings on a quarterly basis with identified employers to understand specific industry trends and to bring like employers together in a way that can provide mutual support for growth. 15. Conduct a comprehensive analysis of City regulations relating to permitting with an eye toward ways to eliminate outdated or duplicative requirements and to further streamline the process of obtaining needed permits with a specific focus on improving predictability of the process. Move as much of the permitting process online as is viable to improve customer access and service. 16. Conduct a comprehensive analysis of all fee requirements tied to the local permitting process to ensure that fees are both appropriate to the service being provided and competitive with neighboring communities and the state. 17. Develop transportation capacity across all transportation modes including bike, pedestrian, transit and autos. Make investments in additional infrastructure that adds capacity where growth is occurring or where it is planned to occur that reduces ride times and promotes connectivity. 18. Identify one or two key business clusters where combined efforts could lead to business recruitment opportunities that tie into that cluster. 19. Bring business leaders together with the School District leadership to develop a robust school to work program that could include focused coursework, intern and apprenticeships, job shadowing, career advising and development and other means to facilitate student transitions to work environments. Have biannual meetings between school and business leadership to understand and anticipate changes in the work environment and the demand for new or evolving skills. 20. Conduct a comprehensive study of the cost of delivery of all local public services to ensure that the very best value is being provided to all taxpayers including employers. Look for opportunities to provide the same or better quality of services to all taxpayers at a reduced cost. This value driven approach to providing public services will create a more welcoming environment for business development. 21. Work with hospitality leaders to evaluate the opportunities for a public-private partnership to increase convention or athletic event infrastructure that will improve our ability to attract right sized conventions, athletic and cultural events to our community. 22. Work with adjoining municipalities and regional entities to resolve potential spillover effects resulting from economic growth and development. 23. Brand and actively market the city with the community vision and image expressed in this plan. 24. Develop a strategic economic development plan for the City. COMMUNITY FACILITY & SERVICES STRATEGIES P. 2-44 25. Annually maintain a capital budget and program for future public facility and utility needs; link to Impact Fee Ordinance. 26. Improve and expand public facilities and services in a manner that supports, complements and reinforces the land use and development recommendations of this plan, which includes a preference for infill over expansion of existing service areas. 27. Continue to develop and refine City-wide plans that address “Ability to Serve” issues from a capital, human resource and programmatic perspective. Further ongoing planning efforts to ensure that adequate wastewater, water, stormwater, emergency services, public works and other pertinent City services are available in anticipation of growth. 28. Construct people-oriented public facilities - including a community library, city hall, recreation and environmental infrastructure- in the City Center area. 29. Provide ease-of-access to public information and feedback through tools such as CCTV, the city website, social media, and traditional media, and continue a policy of open governance. 30. Encourage the provision of open space and dedicated park land that accentuates the school district’s educational goals by providing for experiential and applied learning experiences. 31. Regularly evaluate the City’s policies regarding use of city infrastructure. 32. Create and implement policies and incentives that will attract high-quality and affordable childcare. 33. Develop a public facilities impact fee to support the establishment of municipal facilities including a community center to meet the community’s needs. 34. Implement identified projects within the All Hazards Mitigation Plan including river corridor management. QUALITY OF LIFE STRATEGIES P. 2-49 35. Actively plan for public spaces throughout the City, including public open spaces and public art., such that these spaces can be utilized daily and also for special community-oriented events. TRANSPORTATION STRATEGIES P. 2-62 36. Due to increased development and the desire to protect natural resources, update the South Burlington Planned East-West Roads Analysis. 37. Plan for safe pedestrian and bike access to all schools and support efforts to encourage more children to walk or bike to school. 38. Work with the private sector to implement transportation demand management techniques such as ride sharing programs, bus vouchers, and flexible work hours; such techniques should be explored as possible mitigation to potential negative traffic impacts resulting from new development. 39. Implement the proposed street and intersection improvements included on the City’s Official Map and/or Capital Budget and Program either as a public project or by private developers as warranted by the scope of new development, and continue to require developers to make any necessary improvements to intersection geometry and signalization and streetscapes as a condition of approval. 40. Implement access management techniques when planning new roads or improving existing roads. Require the provision of access management techniques (e.g. limit curb cuts, service roads, etc.) along high volume arterial and collector roadways as a condition of approval for new development and redevelopment. 41. Work with the Chittenden County Regional Planning Commission and Vermont Agency of Transportation to establish Transportation Improvement Districts (TIDs) in areas anticipated for development and transportation need. 42. Work with the Chittenden County Regional Planning Commission to complete transportation network analyses and network studies for areas anticipate for development and transportation need, including examination of an I-89 Interstate interchange at Hinesburg Road or other location. 43. Work with neighboring communities and transportation partners on cooperative strategies for managing the impacts of travel to and from South Burlington, including park and rides and capture/intercept lots, along with appropriate and direct public transit serving them, and pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure connecting to adjacent municipalities. 44. Develop and build a city-wide sidewalk and recreation path plan that identifies and prioritizes gaps, to link various neighborhood and community focal points. 45. Support enhanced commuter rail service on the Vermont Railway and Central Vermont Railway tracks and amend the City’s Land Development Regulations to provide opportunities and mitigate against impacts of rail connections in the community. 46. Prioritize transportation planning efforts to provide safe and efficient access to the Burlington International Airport in a manner that does not adversely affect adjacent neighborhoods. 47. Improve traffic flow through the City by exploring new technologies and synchronizing traffic lights and adjusting traffic light timing based on time of day and traffic volume while retaining balance with pedestrian needs. 48. Seek opportunities to install a park and ride lot along the Shelburne Road corridor. PUBLIC UTILITIES STRATEGIES P. 2-70 49. Engage in discussions with major communications services providers to ensure that South Burlington is on the leading edge of broadband connectivity throughout the City and particularly in our business and commercial centers. Look for opportunities to increase redundancy and choice among service providers. ENERGY STRATEGIES P. 2-74 50. Develop incentives for existing and new buildings to meet or exceed state energy building code, Energy Star, Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) standards. 51. Work with electric utilities and other partners to establish the electric transmission, distribution, and charging infrastructure to support increased use of electric vehicles at home, work, park-and-ride locations, and in downtown parking locations. 52. Explore the creation of a clean energy assessment district to facilitate residential and commercial financing of clean energy improvements. 53. Promote energy efficiency through well-designed buildings, siting and landscaping, and encourage increased demand side management programs and the use of site-specific renewable energy resources. 54. Consider energy efficiency when making upgrades to City utilities and infrastructure such as water and sewage treatment, street and parking area lighting, and traffic signals so that the more efficient solution is chosen if it is projected to pay back or break even over the lifetime of said investment. 55. Continually evaluate the minimum levels of street lighting needed for pedestrian and vehicular safety and security, in the context of energy savings and reduction of light pollution. 56. Consider fuel efficiency when upgrading fleet vehicles for the City and school system and maintain vehicles at peak fuel efficiency. 57. Encourage owners and developers to explore the possibility, and feasibility, of cogeneration and/or district energy in higher-density areas, notably City Center. 58. Encourage installations of photovoltaic electric and solar hot water heating for residential and commercial buildings, and the development of medium-scale photovoltaic electric generating facilities within the city. 59. Seek opportunities to develop photovoltaic electric production on City and school grounds and building rooftops, where not in conflict with other goals of this plan. SURFACE WATER, GROUNDWATER, AND STORMWATER STRATEGIES P. 2-86 60. Pursue opportunities for acquisition and restoration of open space along year-round streams in South Burlington and actively enforce against encroachments to protect these resources. 61. Review geomorphic assessment results for action items identified and pursue implementation. 62. Review fluvial erosion hazard area and river corridors and adopt river corridor protection bylaws and maps. 63. Plan culvert replacements that consider both aquatic organism passage and geomorphic compatibility for any undersized culvers in conjunction with roadway improvements. POTABLE WATER & WASTEWATER STRATEGIES P. 2-92 64. Plan for infrastructure such that its location will limit disturbance within identified primary and secondary natural areas throughout the City to the greatest extent possible. 65. Secure a water tank site on a high point in the Southeast Quadrant to serve the city’s 20- to 25- year pressure and storage needs. This should be added to the Official Map, and incorporated into any development plans for the area. ECOLOGICAL STRATEGIES P. 2-101 66. Substantially restrict new subdivision and development from primary resource conservation areas to include hazardous and environmentally sensitive areas identified, mapped and regulated by the city. Minimize the adverse impacts of new subdivision and development, including resource fragmentation and encroachment, within secondary resource conservation areas, to include those resources of state or local significance as indicated on available resource maps, identified in available inventories and studies, and confirmed through site investigation. 67. Redefine open space in new developments such that useable, quality open space shall be required. Qualifying open space should include civic spaces, recreation, wildlife habitat, and useable agricultural lands. 68. Retain healthy and high-quality existing trees, vegetation, and publicly owned natural areas and woodlands. Develop long-range management plans for each to foster their continued health and use. 69. Encourage public education about tree functions and tree disease inspection in urban areas through cooperation with the UVM Horticultural Farm and Vermont Department of Forest Parks, and Recreation, Urban and Community Forestry Program. 70. Maintain the city’s wildlife diversity, including making use of available planning and legal tools such as buffers, transfers of development rights, overlay zoning districts, conservation easements and other tools as appropriate. 71. Work with adjoining municipalities and regional entities to enact complementary land use policies where wildlife habitat areas cross City boundaries. 72. Maintain existing overall tree canopy. Set targets to increase overall tree canopy, with a focus on increasing tree canopy in urban areas and residential property parcels as identified in the Report on Existing and Potential Tree Canopy in the City of South Burlington (2014). 73. Foster passive recreational use of natural areas and identify areas that may be appropriate for an “off-limits” designation due to their fragile nature. HISTORIC & CULTURAL RESOURCE STRATEGIES P. 2-104 74. Using the data and process identified in the 2014 South Burlington Open Space study, establish view protection overlay districts in other areas of the City and encourage designs that are visually harmonious with the natural landscape in view protection districts. 75. Use the state Register of Historic Places listing for the City to help assess the significance of historic buildings, structures and landscapes, and consider listing road side architecture and post -World War II construction as historic properties. 76. Pursue an inventory of the City’s historic resources and consider regulatory tools that would require documentation of significant and identified historic or archeological resources before permitting their destruction. 77. Participate in appropriate reviews such as Act 250 or highway corridor hearings to protect important historical and cultural resources which may be threatened. RECREATION STRATEGIES P. 2-107 78. Refine & implement acquisition criteria and evaluation of land for the highest community need. 79. Work with private developers to integrate additional public parks into the recreation system; create sufficient active recreation fields to enable restoration and maintenance. 80. Increase accessibility in parks, such that they may be enjoyed by all residents regardless of age, interest, and physical ability consistent with the proposed use of a recreation parcel and activity. Regularly evaluate and modify programming based on changing demographics. 81. Work towards providing access to a park or qualifying open space area within a one-mile safe walk from each neighborhood in the City, and provide each neighborhood with a small park, mini-park, neighborhood park, and community green or meeting area. Utilize Gap Analysis map from 2014 Open Space Report to identify needs for neighborhood parks. 82. Seek opportunities to establish additional public access and parkland along Lake Champlain. 83. Establish a public recreation path along Lake Champlain. AGRICULTURE STRATEGIES P. 2-111 84. Facilitate local farmers’ ability to sell and process their products within the city and use the Land Development Regulations to incentivize urban agriculture and local food production in the City. 85. Where appropriate, actively use city-owned land for agricultural education, and for urban agriculture and local food production including community gardens and leasing of land to commercial farmers. 86. Encourage new development, particularly residential or mixed-use projects that include homes without private yards, to create community garden space. 87. Distribute community gardens throughout the City so that gardens are within walking or biking distance for all City residents. 88. Explore state law related to the regulation of small livestock and bees, with the goal of increasing participation. 89. Encourage more value-added food processors who can strengthen and benefit from the quality of the Vermont brand to locate in South Burlington and bring more quality jobs to the City. GENERAL LAND USE STRATEGIES P.3-4 90. Allow phasing on individual projects as needed to ensure that development occur only in conformance with the City’s ability to provide services. 91. Participate in Act 250 reviews on both local and regional projects which affect the City. 92. Assure that designated open space areas are consistent with the district (zone) in which they are located and physically and functionally suitable for their intended use. CENTRAL DISTRICT STRATEGIES P.3-13 93. Maintain Dorset Street and Williston Road important transportation corridors for all users and reduce signalized curb cuts. 94. Maintain Hinesburg Road from Market Street to Kennedy Drive as a residential corridor. 95. Develop a centrally located, well-designed public gathering space to serve as the focus of the new City Center. 96. Include local residents, businesses and property owners the design of public facilities. 97. Enhance Dumont Park within the City Center as a forested natural area that enhances and ecologically supports City Center development, and provides public green space for passive recreational use, to include a linking, interconnected public path or trail network. 98. Designate a protected greenbelt along the length of Tributary 3 of Potash Brook through the City Center of sufficient area and width to restore, protect and enhance water quality, stream channel and wetland functions, and adjoining riparian areas; to manage and treat additional urban runoff; and which accommodates compatible recreational use of the stream corridor, including planned public boardwalk crossings. 99. Work with property owners and developers to implement stream channel, stream flow and wetland restoration plans for Tributary 3 of Potash Brook, as required for stormwater management and mitigation to improve water quality and meet total maximum daily loads (TMDLs) for the brook. 100. Construct new City Hall, library, and/or Recreation Center, and support the location of new State and Federal Offices and post office (retail or office portion only) in centralized, walkable environments in the Central District). 101. Regularly update the City’s Official Map to include the most up-to-date plans for streets, parks, recreation paths, other civic spaces and utility infrastructure, including public paths, greenways and civic spaces planned for public acquisition and development within the City Center. Pursue public acquisition of mapped facilities through public dedication, and as available funding allows. 102. In addition to the use of public funds and TIF District revenues, seek funding and explore public-private partnerships to provide necessary public amenities including green and civic spaces, sidewalks, trees, outdoor furniture and lighting, parking and public transit amenities. 103. Develop an efficient, convenient and attractive transportation and parking plan to serve the center area and fund and maintain public parking facilities and walking, biking, and transit amenities. 104. Use design review and/or form-based coding to promote the development of aesthetically pleasing, pedestrian-focused and highly functional environments. 105. Minimize off-street surface parking. 106. Evaluate zoning along Hinesburg Road north of Market Street and other areas adjacent to neighborhoods to foster a harmonious transition in land uses. 107. Complete construction for the Federally- funded Market Street Improvements and other projects listed within the City’s Tax Increment Finance District Plan and Capital Improvement Plan. 108. Support the establishment of a Main Street-style, community-based organization to nurture, promote and otherwise support City Center as a South Burlington community and downtown center. NORTHWEST QUADRANT STRATEGIES P. 3-20 109. Refine the City’s Land Development Regulations to allow for appropriately-scaled renovation of existing homes and infill development. 110. Review the City’s Land Development Regulations to encourage or require development along Kennedy Drive to include significant landscaping and/or forested blocks along the roadway in keeping with existing patterns of development. 111. Seek opportunities to develop additional public parkland in the Northwest Quadrant using tools available to the city, including the Official Map, Impact Fees, and development requirements. 112. Strive to protect existing neighborhoods from incompatible commercial encroachment and traffic disruption through the Land Development Regulations. 113. Maintain the section of Williston Road between Cottage Grove Avenue and Mills Avenue as a residential corridor. 114. Complete Chamberlin Neighborhood Airport Planning project and revise the Comprehensive Plan with goals and vision for the future. NORTHEAST QUADRANT STRATEGIES P. 3-24 115. Complete an analysis and determine whether to pursue a potential interstate interchange serving the area; revisit the City’s Land Development Regulations to ensure that the future transportation network and future development potential of the area are consistent with one another. 116. Review the City’s Land Development Regulations so that land uses within the Quadrant remain consistent with the continued operation of the airport. 117. Promote business use along Williston Road that makes use of available transit services. 118. Promote the effective transition from rural residential and agricultural land uses along old Farm Road to more dense housing and mixed uses in highly serviced areas along Kennedy Drive and Kimball Ave. Such transition should incorporate interconnected greenways and forested open space. 119. Encourage well planned, clustered, compact and infill business park development that integrates contiguous open space areas in business park design. 120. Focus City resources in support of the build out of high density business and technology and mixed use centers to include City Center and the greater Tilley Drive – Technology Park – O’Brien Brothers – Meadowlands and adjacent properties development. Recognize this central area of the community as critical to the economic and employment growth of the City and work to encourage full build out of available capacity. SOUTHWEST QUADRANT STRATEGIES P. 3-28 121. Encourage future development on the west side of the Vermont Railway line to make use of public crossings. 122. Review the city’s Land Development Regulations in key transition areas: between the Southwest and Southeast Quadrants; between Swift Street and adjacent areas; between Allen Road and adjacent areas. 123. Explore opportunities to create one or more “nodes” of concentrated development and public activity along the Shelburne Road corridor; 124. Continue to foster principally residential and open space throughout the lakeward portion of the Quadrant; explore opportunities for compatible non-residential uses along the railway and the potential for a mixed-use waterfront. SOUTHEAST QUADRANT STRATEGIES P. 3-37 125. Take an active role, through cooperative planning and projects, policy discussions, zoning, and land conservation, in promoting new or revitalized agricultural and other open space uses in the SEQ that can be compatible with residential neighborhood and village center uses. 126. Create a village center and green for the SEQ along Dorset Street south of Old Cross Road. 127. Participate in State proceedings to advance the City’s position on open space, housing and agricultural use issues as they relate to soil classes. 128. Maintain the present residential density of 1.2 dwelling units per gross acre of land as the basic limitation on the ultimate build out of the SEQ zoning district. 129. Continue to allow limited neighborhood areas with a buildable density of between four and eight units per acre, using development rights transferred from areas in the SEQ designated for conservation or protection. 130. Evaluate the allowable activities on the western portion of the Industrial-Open Space District and consider enabling the development of a residential neighborhood with density from transferred development rights from conserved properties in the SEQ. 131. Revise the LDRs to ensure that all truck-intensive uses in the I0 district are located a sufficient distance away from residentially-zoned lands to prevent adverse noise, air quality, light, and visual impacts. 132. Review the general height limits and explore architectural design review to ensure that the proposed structures are consistent with the vernacular architectural styles and visual quality of the SEQ. 133. Continue to work with Shelburne on strategies to create a conserved agricultural and natural area, with appropriate public access and paths, from Shelburne Pond and Pond Road north to the Cider Mill development, consistent with the goals of the Open Space Strategy. 134. Work with the owners of major SEQ lands with agricultural use or potential to ensure the appropriate use of TDRs for land conservation, consistent with the objectives of this Plan, the SEQ Concept Plan and Open Space Strategy. 135. Through the development review process, land conservation initiatives, and development of Zoning Map amendments for the SEQ, work towards the addition of supplemental conserved areas adjacent and connected to existing open space lands. 136. Maintain measures in the LDRs and SEQ zoning map to ensure that open spaces in all developments affecting secondary natural areas be designed in a manner to ensure continued connectivity between other open spaces and the preservation of “stepping stone” or other pockets of important wildlife habitat. 137. Consult the Arrowwood Environmental SEQ Environmental Assessment regarding environmental resources, conditions, and possible strategies for protecting wildlife habitat values through conservation, restoration and development. *****OBJECTIVES****** POPULATION OBJECTIVES P. 2-9 1. Anticipate and prepare for an average annual population growth rate of approximately 1-1.5 %, and a housing growth rate of 1.5-2%. HOUSING OBJECTIVES P. 2-16 2. Offer a full spectrum of housing choices that includes options affordable to households of varying income levels and sizes by striving to meet the housing targets set forth in this plan. 3. Foster the creation and retention of a housing stock that is balanced in size and target income level, is representative of the needs of households of central Chittenden County, and maintains an efficient use of land for use by future generations. 4. Support the retention of existing and construction of new affordable and moderate-income housing, emphasizing both smaller single family homes and apartments, to meet demand within the regional housing market. 5. Build and reinforce diverse, walkable neighborhoods that offer a good quality of life by designing and locating new and renovated housing in a context-sensitive manner that will facilitate development of a high-density, City Center, mixed-used transit corridors, and compact residential neighborhoods. ECONOMY OBJECTIVES P. 2-22 6. Continue to be an economic hub for the region consistent with the land use goals of the city. 7. Maintain a balanced ratio of residential and non-residential sectors of the grand list in order to provide quality municipal services at a manageable property tax rate. 8. Maintain a stable and proportional tax for existing and future residents and businesses. 9. Be a good partner with business in helping them locate in South Burlington or continue to grow here. COMMUNITY FACILITY & SERVICES OBJECTIVES P. 2-44 10. Provide quality indoor and outdoor public facilities and services, identified through collaborative strategic planning, that meet present-day needs and are programmed to anticipate needs at least 20 years into the future. 11. Complete comprehensive and consistent master plans for significant City-owned parks and natural areas. 12. Provide connections and space for city residents of all ages and abilities to participate in life- long educational, recreational, and community service for both personal enrichment and to strengthen neighborhood and community connections. 13. Provide ease of access to city governance and raise rates of public participation in decision- making. QUALITY OF LIFE OBJECTIVES P. 2-49 14. For all new development, public and private, consider accessibility for users of differing ages and physical abilities. 15. Build and reinforce diverse, accessible neighborhoods that offer a good quality of life by designing and locating new and renovated development in a context-sensitive manner. TRANSPORTATION OBJECTIVES P. 2-61 16. Provide a transportation network that complies with Complete Street mandates, and maximizes efficiency and safety for all types of users (pedestrians, cyclists, transit, automobiles, trucks, rail, and air). 17. Connect neighborhoods with one another via road segments and with commercial areas for local, slow speed circulation. 18. Provide a transportation network that is supportive of and integrated into the adjacent land uses and that is designed to minimize fragmentation of and adverse impacts to identified natural, cultural, scenic and other open space resources. 19. Reduce the percentage of trips taken by single-occupancy vehicles in the City. 20. Seek alternative traffic congestion relief measures before existing roadway segments are expanded. 21. Foster community discussion about transportation and land-use planning for the northeast quadrant of the city, including Interstate connectivity (Exit 12B). ENERGY OBJECTIVES P. 2-74 22. Achieve a reduction of 20% in carbon dioxide-equivalent emissions from 2009 levels by 2020 through an increase in renewable energy production and reductions in energy use in the following sectors: transportation, commercial/industrial, residential, municipal/school. 23. Facilitate and encourage community-based renewable energy production in locations that do not contradict or interfere with the city’s open space and resource conservation objectives, specifically as identified in Section 3.2D of this plan. SURFACE WATER, GROUNDWATER, AND STORMWATER OBJECTIVES P. 2-83 24. Reduce the number and forms of impairments of waterways in South Burlington by 2033. 25. Protect and improve watershed, stream, and wetland system natural processes, specifically for stormwater treatment, riparian and aquatic habitat, and floodplain and river corridor protection. 26. Include mapped river corridors (fluvial erosion hazard areas, and floodplains, and riparian areas) within designated open space areas intended for hazard mitigation, resource conservation and compatible forms of passive outdoor recreation. 27. Plan for flood emergency preparedness and response. POTABLE WATER & WASTEWATER OBJECTIVES P. 2-89 28. Maintain a wastewater allocation system that reflects the land use goals of the Comprehensive Plan. ECOLOGICAL OBJECTIVES P. 2-101 29. Proactively plan for a network of interconnected and contiguous open spaces to conserve and accommodate ecological resources, active and passive recreation land, civic spaces, scenic views and vistas, forests and productive farmland and primary agricultural soils. 30. Conserve restore and enhance biological diversity within the City, through careful site planning and development that is designed to avoid adverse impacts to critical wildlife resources, and that incorporates significant natural areas, communities and wildlife habitats as conserved open space. HISTORIC & CULTURAL RESOURCE OBJECTIVES P. 2-104 31. Protect important vistas and viewsheds, as viewed from public vantage points (public roads, paths, land); and designated landscapes, sites and structures of historic and cultural significance. RECREATION OBJECTIVES P. 2-107 32. Provide for the varied recreational needs and interests of its citizens by providing areas and facilities for passive recreation, active sports, cultural and educational programs, and civic gatherings. 33. Provide public access to natural areas within the City’s more urban and suburban neighborhoods, for passive outdoor recreation and education. 34. Use the strategies in this plan to maintain the targeted ratio of open space to population/ level of service standards as outlined in the South Burlington Open Space Report (2014). AGRICULTURE OBJECTIVES P. 2-111 35. Conserve productive farmland and primary agricultural soils within the city. 36. Support farmers and entrepreneurs within the City who produce food for local consumption. 37. Enable, encourage, and incentivize agriculture and local food production dispersed throughout the City. GENERAL LAND USE OBJECTIVES P. 3-4 38. The majority of all new development will occur within the Shelburne Road, Williston Road, and Kennedy Drive Corridors, and other areas within the Transit service area. 39. Prioritize development that occurs within the community into the higher intensity areas identified within this Plan. CENTRAL DISTRICT OBJECTIVES P. 3-13 40. Create a cohesive, diverse, dynamic and people-oriented City Center with a strong identity and “sense of place” that incorporates harmonious design, an appropriate mix of residential and non-residential uses and public amenities that complement adjoining neighborhoods. 41. Establish vibrant streetscapes, civic spaces, public art and public facilities in the Central District and City Center. 42. Reserve and establish open space areas for public enjoyment, natural resource conservation, and stormwater management, including a greenbelt along Potash Brook. . 43. Complete master planning for City Center to create opportunities for low impact stormwater management that incorporates sustainable design and green infrastructure. 44. Conserve and protect existing nearby residential areas. 45. Minimize overall demand for parking in the Central District through design, regulations, and investments that foster pedestrian, bicycle, and transit use and provide efficient, aesthetically pleasing shared parking options. 46. Promote interconnectivity and integration of public facilities including schools and school facilities open to the public with surrounding neighborhoods, to include safe routes for children and neighborhood residents to walk and bicycle to school, a public library, recreation services, and other city services. NORTHWEST QUADRANT OBJECTIVES P. 3-19 47. Maintain existing affordable diverse residential neighborhoods and access to neighborhood parks and other amenities. 48. Allow for infill development, including parks and civic spaces that serves and supports the character of existing neighborhoods; with a focus on the replacement of small single-family affordable homes that have been bought and demolished under the Burlington International Airport’s “Property Acquisition Plan” in association with its adopted Noise Compatibility Program. 49. Create transitions from the Burlington International Airport in areas identified for redevelopment that serve or buffer nearby neighborhoods; establish a community vision for the future of this area. 50. Ensure continued compatibility of University land uses with existing development and conservation patterns. NORTHEAST QUADRANT OBJECTIVES P. 3-24 51. Allow opportunities for employers in need of larger amounts of space, provided they are compatible with the operation of the airport. 52. Provide a balanced mix of recreation, resource conservation, and business park opportunities in the south end of the Quadrant, to include the conservation of open space resources, including riparian corridors along the tributaries of Muddy Brook and Potash Brook. SOUTHWEST QUADRANT OBJECTIVES P. 3-27 53. Promote higher-density, mixed use development and redevelopment along Shelburne Road and foster effective transitions to adjacent residential areas. 54. Maintain Shelburne Road as a roadway for both regional and local circulation. 55. Improve local neighborhood connections on the east and west sides of the Shelburne Road corridor. 56. Promote and expand public access to Lake Champlain. 57. Support the ongoing agricultural use of the University of Vermont’s Horticultural Farm and its other agricultural properties. 58. Provide for the continued viability and use of the Vermont Railway line while supporting the viability of residential neighborhoods. SOUTHEAST QUADRANT OBJECTIVES P. 3-37 59. Give priority to the conservation of contiguous and interconnected open space areas within this quadrant outside of those areas [districts, zones] specifically designated for development. 60. Maintain opportunities for traditional and emerging forms of agriculture that complement and help sustain a growing city, and maintain the productivity of South Burlington’s remaining agricultural lands. 61. Enhance Dorset Street as the SEQ’s “main street” with traffic calming techniques, streetscape improvements, safe interconnected pedestrian pathways and crossings, and a roadway profile suited to its intended local traffic function. Project PrioritizationSouth Burlington Planning Commission List Generated Fall2012 Status updated December 2015 1 Planning Commission Project List as of Fall 2012 Green = complete or nearly complete; yellow = in progress Order below based on Planning Commission priorities in Fall 2011. Project Status Comprehensive Plan Council has warned hearing City Official Map City Center at Council. Citywide needs to be updated Wildlife zoning project Open Space Report included additional work on this item. Stormwater - requiring LID throughout city Council has warned hearing Seasonal Mobile Food units amendment Adopted eff 9/2013 Interstate Overlay Adjustment Adopted eff 9/2013 Review Temporary use & structures Adopted eff 9/2013 Market Street / City Center Project pieces Underway City Center TIF District Adopted, may be expanded Revise City Impact Fee Ordinance Transportation, Public Facilities, Fire need to be updated / created Focus of Development in the city.FBC streamlines review process. City Council set aside additional wastewater allocation in City Center area. TIF investments are intended to encourage development in City Center. Prepare revised City Capital Budget and Plan (annual)Updated annually City Center parking garage / parking plan Reviewed with TIF Prepare city open space assessment Completed 2014 Cottage Housing - Afford Housing / FBC Cottage Housing Cmte Review. Possible AH Committee City Center / Williston RD FBC City Center at Council. Consider elsewhere Cars to People (Potential re-zoning of Williston and Shelburne Roads) - FBC Input to Williston & Shelburne Road projects Overall Planned Unit Development Standards - FBC Funds received. PC has elected to start with City Center Master Plan Site Plan Review Standards FBC addresses in City Center. Project PrioritizationSouth Burlington Planning Commission List Generated Fall2012 Status updated December 2015 2 Project Status Transitions between zoning districts / uses FBC Units in a structure; PUD perimeters adopted 1/2012. Streamline and clarify zoning - FBC Portions [digital submissions, fees] adopted 1/2012. Heights of buildings in high-density residential zoning districts, mixed-use districts, and non-residential districts - FBC Addressed in FBC, need to look elsewhere Waiver Provisions - Review / Replace Revised parking standards & strategies Addressed in City Center FBC, also reduced 1-br units citywide. Rest of Citywide to be addressed Density Permitted in Application of TDRs Airport area land use and transportation plan Chamberlin project in progress Maximum Density Calculation and Undeveloped Land Residential development and no-road frontage requirement 50' required in lower density districts as of 2011 Southeast Quadrant - Quantifying Standards Intensities and Densities in various districts, including density increases allowable through PUDs Commercial and city-wide areas design review City Center FBC replaces Design Review in that area; addressed elsewhere Residential building standards - non SEQ Location of parking on a parcel Addressed in City Center FBC. Rest of Citywide to be addressed University Mall Coverage / Design Review Addressed in City Center FBC. Master Plan tools under development for larger parcels Project PrioritizationSouth Burlington Planning Commission List Generated Fall2012 Status updated December 2015 3 Project Status Define "mix of housing types" within the SEQ Review "should" statements within the LDRs - TDR Prioritization and/or evaluation of how many to apply Affordable Housing Toolbox - Afford Housing / FBC Inclusionary zoning included in City Center FBC area. Definition changed elsewhere to match State definitions. Not addressed outside of City Center. Agricultural lands & soils planning - FBC SusAg Committee found NRP was in the correct places in SEQ; site-by-site review standards not developed. Allowing homes to be divided into multiple units-- FBC Exit 12B / 13 / 14N (See also I/O district plan)Meetings held Chamberlain & Mayfair Neighborhood outreach & planning Chamberlin project underway Clarify the number of single family homes permitted on a private right-of-way or road; Returned to PC Revised public works standards- Historic preservation language Not yet started Examine tree requirements in IHO-Not yet started Barbed Wire - Airport area - Not yet started Limit number of trailers on a property Not yet considered Revised accessory dwelling unit standards -Not yet started Citizen's guide to public input Have drafts from other communities Shelburne Road Corridor Study – IDX Drive to Burlington Accepted by PC 7/2012 Placement of cell towers Not yet started Striping of parking areas / demarcation of gravel parking areas Not yet started Wheeler Nature Park Land Exchange Zoning amendment City Council has warned public hearing. Project PrioritizationSouth Burlington Planning Commission List Generated Fall2012 Status updated December 2015 4 Project Status Industrial - Open Space District Planning & Exit 12B Hill Farm property owners have met with PC; draft Comp Plan has new Future Land Use designations on that parcel Consider allowing mid-sized general retail merchandise in Mixed IC, C1- and C2 PC elected to remove term "general merchendise stores" for the timebeing in the present draft amendments Provide discretion to Staff/Administrative Officer to handle some design review- FBC Design Review has been replaced with FBC in City Center Amend conditional use criteria to use consistent language for "character" - neighborhood, district etc. Energy / LEED Bonuses Drafts LDRs include Citywide Stretch Code requirement Drive-through conditional uses standards-Addressed in City Center FBC access management / cross connectivity of lots - Consider no parking on front lawns- Define crematoriums & standards Allow self-storage within Mixed IC district more broadly In present draft amendments Review "purpose" statements of each zoning district Included with FBC Districts, not addressed elsewhere HVAC equipment and building heights Williston Road Corridor Study – Dorset Street to Kennedy Dr.Completed plhase I, into Phase II UVM Intercept Lot / City Center Parking Completed Open Space Acquisition Ongoing. Include Railway Recreation Path on Official Map - See Official Map Ongoing Clarify standards for fencing of Stormwater facilities - See Stormwater LID Project. Ongoing F:\USERS\Planning & Zoning\Staff Review Committee\A.Staff Review Committee Matrix current.xlsx Staff Review Committee template 12/4/2015 1 Tracking #Source Project Report Recommendation Page # in report Main Comm. Assigned Notes Housing: AH-13-01 AH Committee Definition of Affordable Housing p. 8 PC In present draft at City Council AH-13-02 AH Committee Inclusionary Zoning p. 87 PC In present draft at City Council AH-13-03 AH Committee changes to Accessory Dwelling Unit language p. 80 PC AH-13-04 AH Committee Housing Replacement Ordinance p. 95 PC AH-13-05 AH Committee changes to Density Bonus language and incentives p. 84 PC AH-13-06 AH Committee Comp Plan language changes p. 65 PC In present draft at City Council AH-13-09 AH Committee Equal treatment of Housing language p. 73 PC In present draft at City Council AH-13-10 AH Committee Building Types p.77 PC SusAg/Food Security: SusAg: Conserve Farmland Category SA-13-09 SusAg/Food Sec Task Force Review and expand the Transfer of Development Rights provisions in the LDRs p. 70 PC SA-13-11 SusAg/Food Sec Task Force Regulation changes: Definitions and Uses p. 65-69 PC SA-13-19 SusAg/Food Sec Task Force Edible Landscaping p.71 PC SA-13-24 SusAg/Food Sec Task Force Strengthen language in LDRs to protect topsoil during construction so that yards are more suitable for gardening p.71 PC SA-13-33 SusAg/Food Sec Task Force Comp Plan language changes p. 56 PC Form Based Codes FBC-13-01 Form Based Code Comm.Draft Street Typologies & Types for existing streets PC In present draft at City Council FBC-13-02 Form Based Code Comm. Recommendation from FBC Consultant to extend FBC City Wide PC FBC-13-04 Form Based Code Comm. Complete City Center FBC (including FBC-13-01, FBC- 13-03, definitions, nonconformities, block standards administration, and integration into LDRs.PC In present draft at City Council Additional LDR updates PC-13-01 JAM Golf Settlement Establish SEQ-Neighborhood Residential North subdistrict per JAM Golf legal settlement PC In present draft at City Council PC-13-02 Public request Amend LDRs to allow Schoolhouse to continue include child care Complete PC-13-03 Public request Amend LDRs to allow parking in front in IC Complete PC-13-04 EPA Grant Stormwater LDR Amendments PC In present draft at City Council LDR-14-01 FBC Neighborhood (T3) Zoning City Wide PC LDR-14-02 FBC Mixed Use area (T4) Zoning City Wide PC F:\USERS\Planning & Zoning\Staff Review Committee\A.Staff Review Committee Matrix current.xlsx Staff Review Committee template 12/4/2015 2 Tracking #Source Project Report Recommendation Page # in report Main Comm. Assigned Notes LDR-14-03 FBC Non-Transect Zone Zoning City Wide PC LDR-14-04 FBC PUD Standards (Neighborhood, Business, Ag Node, etc.)PC LDR-14-05 PC / Council Traffic Overlay District Revisions PC City Center Capital Projects OSC Strategies - Inventorying and mapping OS-14-02 Open Space IZ Comm. Report Incorporate open space resource inventories and maps in the city’s updated comprehensive plan p. 56 PC In present draft at City Council Open Space IZ Comm. Report OSC Strategies - Open Space Framework OS-14-10 Open Space IZ Comm. Report Incorporate or reference recommended “Open Space Guidelines” (Attachment A) in the city’s updated comprehensive plan,p. 57 PC In present draft at City Council OS-14-11 Open Space IZ Comm. Report Adopt and incorporate the attached “Open Space Guidelines” in updated LDRs or FBC p. 57 PC In City Center draft at City Council OS-14-12 Open Space IZ Comm. Report Amend the city’s land development regulations to require, in association with new subdivisions and development, the set aside of common “usable” or “functional” open space for the use of residents or building occupants p. 57 PC In City Center draft at City Council Open Space IZ Comm. Report OSC Strategies - Primary and Secondary Conservation areas OS-14-15 Open Space IZ Comm. Report Specifically identify and define inventoried open space resources (lists, maps) in the updated comprehensive plan and land development regulations.p. 58 PC In present draft Comp Plan at City Council OS-14-16 Open Space IZ Comm. Report Develop comp plan policies – clear, written community standards – for the siting of energy and telecommunications facilities, for consideration in PSB proceedings,p. 58 PC In present draft Comp Plan at City Council OS-14-17 Open Space IZ Comm. Report Update the LDRs to reference and regulate mapped “primary” and “secondary” resource conservation areas, giving highest priority to the protection of primary conservation areas as “no build” areas, regardless of their context. p. 58 PC OS-14-18 Open Space IZ Comm. Report Reference open space resource maps, ANR’s Resource Atlas and/or BioFinder in the land development regulations p. 58 PC OS-14-19 Open Space IZ Comm. Report Retain, and expand as necessary, existing provisions in the land development regulations for independent technical review of applications p. 58 PC In present draft at City Council OS-14-20 Open Space IZ Comm. Report Evaluate the need to further regulate floodplain and fluvial erosion hazard areas based on river corridor protection maps provided by the state p. 59 PC OS-14-23 Open Space IZ Comm. Report Update the scenic overlay district and associated resource protection standards based on more comprehensive inventory of scenic resources p. 59 PC OS-14-31 Open Space IZ Comm. Report Review the results of UVM’s tree canopy assessment p. 60 PC Open Space IZ Comm. Report OSC Strategies - Park and Recreation Areas F:\USERS\Planning & Zoning\Staff Review Committee\A.Staff Review Committee Matrix current.xlsx Staff Review Committee template 12/4/2015 3 Tracking #Source Project Report Recommendation Page # in report Main Comm. Assigned Notes OS-14-33 Open Space IZ Comm. Report Require the set aside of common, usable open space within new development (10-15% of project area or x SF/Unit)p. 61 PC OS-14-34 Open Space IZ Comm. Report Continue to provide for the private dedication of land or easements for the development of public parks and recreation paths and facilities (e.g., to qualify for credits or bonuses),p. 61 PC Ongoing OS-14-42 Open Space IZ Comm. Report Update draft comp plan objectives and strategies for the City Center to more specifically address urban open space – including planned resource conservation, recreation and civic space.p. 62 PC In present draft Comp Plan at City Council OS-14-43 Open Space IZ Comm. Report Define separate types of “forms” of functional or usable urban open space (e.g., an open space design palette), associated amenities, and related standards or guidelines p. 63 PC In present draft at City Council OS-14-44 Open Space IZ Comm. Report Update open space and resource protection standards under the city’s LDRs and/or FBC and other ordinances (e.g., tree, parks, stormwater management) as applied to open space resources within an urban context p. 64 PC OS-14-45 Open Space IZ Comm. Report Identify those open and green space areas intended for public acquisition and ownership – at minimum as included and approved in the TIF Plan for district financing – in the city’s adopted capital budget and program and official map. p. 64 Council /PC Under development Ordinances & Adopted Documents ORD-14-01 PC Official Map - City Center PC In present draft at City Council ORD-14-02 PC Official Map - City Wide PC PLAN-14-01 State Law Comprehensive Plan Completion PC In present draft at City Council 575 Dorset Street South Burlington, VT 05403 tel 802.846.4106 fax 802.846.4101 www.sburl.com MEMORANDUM TO: South Burlington Planning Commission FROM: Paul Conner, Director of Planning & Zoning SUBJECT: Initial Discussion: FY ‘17 CCRPC Unified Planning Work Program projects DATE: December 8, 2015 Planning Commission meeting Again this year the Chittenden County Regional Planning Commission is seeking input on possible transportation planning projects they should undertake in their next fiscal year in support of South Burlington. Over the last couple of years, the City has been the beneficiary of several projects, many of which are presently underway. Staff’s initial recommendation this year is to focus first on completing existing projects, and then to seek assistance in two larger-scale transportation-land use projects. Below please find a brief status report on the currently-approved projects (in order of ongoing to completed): 1. Kimball Ave / Kennedy Drive / Tilley Drive / Old Farm Road / Hinesburg Road Network Analysis Description: Still under development, but begin to plan the future multi-modal transportation system to serve the anticipated future development in this area, including potential Fletcher Allen and other projects. Status: 2. Williston Road Network Analysis Phase I & Phase II Description: Analysis of the medium to longer-term transportation improvements – with a focus on multi-modal transportation and transportation demand management – to align with the FBC and TIF plans for the area. Status: Phase I, data gathering and first presentation to Planning Commission, was completed in the spring. Phase II, community & property owner outreach and more detailed alternatives examination, underway in December 2015 3. Traffic Overlay District Regulations Update Description: Project will be to overhaul the City’s Traffic Overlay District Regulations to better support transportation improvements and overall transportation demand management. Status: Not yet started. Anticipated to start soon. 2 4. Chamberlain Neighborhood - Airport Area Plan Description: Neighborhood land use and transportation plan for the Chamberlin area. Status: In progress. Planned for completion in summer of 2016. 5. Sidewalk/Shared Use Path gaps scoping Description: undertake first stage of planning (“scoping”) of 4 identified recreation path / sidewalk connections within the Capital Improvement Plan. Status: Four sites – Allen Road (eastern end), Dorset Street south of Old Cross Road, Airport Parkway, and the Spear Street jughandle, are in progress. Expected completion spring 2016. 6. Dorset Street Adaptive Signal Control / Williston & Dorset Street Signals analysis Description: These are two separate projects to look at signal systems, intersections, and technology along this corridor. Status: Underway. 7. Multi-Site Transportation Facilities Stormwater Impacts Scoping Description: Perform the initial site assessments of several potential stormwater retrofit improvements around the city to bring these projects towards construction. Status: Ongoing. Planned for completion in the spring. As noted above, Staff’s initial recommendation is to focus on completing the project list above. In our initial discussions with the CCRPC, we have are identifying potential additional projects for next year. These will be brought to the meeting as part of our list. SOUTH BURLINGTON PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES 20 OCTOBER 2015 1 The South Burlington Planning Commission held a regular meeting on Tuesday, 20 October 2015, at 7:00 p.m., in the Conference Room, City Hall, 575 Dorset Street. MEMBERS PRESENT: J. Louisos, Chair; T. Harrington, T. Riehle, B. Gagnon, S. Quest, D. MacDonald, A. Klugo ALSO PRESENT: P. Conner, Director of Planning & Zoning; C. LaRose, City Planner; B. Paquette, D. Leban, P. O’Brien, J. Kochman, S. Darnell, G. Berdie, A. Phelps, A. Vogler, T. Chittenden, H. Cockburn, B. & F. Burkhart, S. Basiliere, M. Merrill, B. Serviss, P. Nowak, M. Emery, D. Adamson, Other Members of the Public 1. Agenda: Additions, deletions or changes in order of agenda items: No changes were made to the Agenda. 2. Open to the public for items not related to the agenda: No issues were raised. 3. Planning Commissioner announcements and staff reports: No announcements or reports were made. 4. Public Hearing on Draft 2016 Comprehensive Plan: Ms. Louisos reviewed the history of the preparation of the Plan and previous public input sessions. She noted that after this public hearing, the Planning Commission will deliberate and consider the comments made by the public. Mr. Gagnon directed attention to a matrix of public comments received so far which has been posted on the website. Ms. Louisos then invited public comment. Ms. Leban: On p. 37, regarding higher density development, she felt there should be planning for more compact schools On p. 69, she expressed a concern with compliance With regard to transportation issues, she felt roads shouldn’t roll over natural areas and wetlands 2 There should be an updated map of bike/pedestrian paths. There needs to be reference to those who commute to work on bicycles. The 2001 study for the Swift Street Extension is outdated, and there is a question of wetlands. She felt the study didn’t take into account the intersections that are already functioning poorly. p. 125 – should include Dorset Street and the Wheeler view corridor p. 174 – use bike/pedestrian planning to discourage vehicles having a negative effect on the park. Ms. Darnell: Concerned about the “red dot” on Spear Street in the South Village neighborhood. She felt this is a residential zone, and that South Village is marketed as a “green community.” She was concerned with building of apartments which had some unintended results, including decreasing the amount of money for the farm, people not being able to work effectively with FHA and units that are not owner-occupied. She noted that a survey showed a majority of people would be OK with a bakery, but that would open the door to other retail. 70% of residents oppose changing the zoning to allow commercial. She didn’t feel South Village could support a business, and it would mean attracting other people to the neighborhood, thereby increasing traffic, etc. She would support a retail service up to 3000 sq. ft. that would be related to the farm venture and would benefit the farm. Ms. Vogler: Expressed concern that the information they are getting from the developer of South Village is “propaganda” and isn’t revealing that there would be rental units above the commercial/retail spaces. She felt that in the existing rental units, people don’t obey the rules, let kids and dogs run loose, etc. Mr. O’Brien: Wanted to know if there is a use that South Village people would support. Mr. Berdie: Was the first resident to move into South Village, and there was no mention then of commercial activity. Concerned about increased traffic and parking issues and the negative impact on the neighborhood. Mr. O’Brien asked about process. Ms. Louisos said the Commission will work through public comments and then forward the Comprehensive Plan to the City Council for their process. Ms. Harrington added that any changes in zoning would require changes to the Land Development Regulations (LDRs). That would require a whole new series of hearings. 3 Mr. O’Brien: In the previous Comprehensive Plan, it is clear that these small commercial areas were thought of in the past. There are other “red dots” on Hinesburg Road, etc. He felt there should be similar areas on all the north/south routes to allow people to stop for milk, etc. on the way home. He said their concept is for a neighborhood store (bakery, little restaurant, etc.). He added that it was a mistake to roll out some “massive plans.” He said they would go to the residents and say there will be only an agreed upon set of uses. He noted that the farm struggles because of poor soils. A resident: Asked if there would be apartments above the retail uses. Mr. O’Brien: If it was up to him, there would not. He envisioned a small office area, an art studio, etc. He also noted that with current zoning, they could build a 12-plex in that location, and they would be apartment units. Mr. Cockburn: There are commercial uses 5 minutes away. They are not needed in South Village. He felt that if commercial uses are allowed, the developer could put anything in there. Mr. Merrill: Agreed with other South Village people. Said that to change it now would be to “bait and switch.” Ms. Basiliere: Doesn’t agree with a lot of the uses the developer proposes. Would prefer a community center where some of those uses could happen (yoga studio, etc.). She said that a farmstand would be OK because there is a farm. Mr. Conner explained state law regarding agriculture and what might be allowed. Ms. Burkhart: Was concerned that the education section of the plan hasn’t been updated and that it appears a land swap with the city and schools is a done deal. She wanted a vote on whether to transfer school property. Ms. Nowak explained that at the last City Council meeting, the Council unanimously supported that if there is to be any school land swap action, that it go to a public vote. Mr. Adamson: Was concerned with the process, and that it is hard to track changes from the old Comprehensive Plan to the new one. Suggested a “track change of function” so people can see this. 4 Resident: Stonehedge resident who works at the Airport. Noted that the proposed rec path along the security fence is likely to be opposed by the Air Guard (northwest side that connects from the Dog Park to the sewage treatment plant). Ms. Nowak noted the presence of 3 City Councilors at the meeting. They do not intend to weigh in on anything other than to make any needed clarifications. Mr. Paquette: On p. 259, he suggested making the language strong to support lessening of Airport noise impact and to take into account potential health issues. He questioned whether new zoning will take into consideration the noise levels and whether the city would allow new housing in the noise zone. Ms. Serviss: Asked the Commission to look seriously at bike/rec paths. She felt complete streets doesn’t work. Bicyclists “run over” people on Williston Road walkways. She asked the Commission to think about pedestrians and do something safe for them. Ms. Kochman: On p. 224, recreation also has a need for indoor activities. She asked that “recreation” be removed from the parentheses and put in the next sentence. Ms. Louisos noted that the Education section of the plan is being rewritten by 2 Commission members who served on the City/Schools Task Force. She asked them for comment. Mr. Klugo said their work is not quite ready for public comment. Their intent is not to speak to any specific recommendations but to the challenges being faced. He noted that they did submit something for Commission consideration today. Mr. Conner said the Commission could look at this and possibly post it on the website for public comment. He suggested keeping the public hearing open for such comments. Ms. Louisos noted receipt of written comments from Shelly Rayback, Liz Robert, and Mike Simoneau. Mr. Conner said staff had fixed several minor grammatical errors and typos. The Police and Fire Departments did some minor updating. There was also an update of transportation projects for the city and additional language for indoor recreation facilities. The next draft will include all of these updates. Mr. Burkhart: Ask that there be significant public notice when the Education Section is available for comment. 5 Mr. Gagnon then moved to continue the public hearing until Tuesday 27 October at 7 p.m., for the purpose of reviewing the Education section of the Comprehensive Plan. Ms. Harrington seconded. Motion passed unanimously. 5. Review Feedback provided on draft Comprehensive Plan; discuss possible amendments: a. Technical corrections completed by staff: This was already addressed. b. Staff-received changes based on prior Commission discussions: This was previously addressed. Mr. Gagnon suggested going through the education section so it can be posted on the website. Mr. Klugo said they organized the section by 1) Existing Conditions, 2) Analysis, 3) Future Needs. Mr. Gagnon felt it was a good job and maintained that this is an ongoing process and provides a good indication of where things now stand. Mr. Riehle questioned whether single family homes or apartment units would provide more students for the schools. Mr. Klugo said the issue is that after children in single family homes have grown up and moved on, the older parents remain in the homes, and the single family homes are no longer provided students to the school system. Apartment units tend to have more frequent turnover. Mr. Conner said it is also a question of the number of bedrooms in a unit. Ms. LaRose said they want to present accurate numbers regarding school populations. Mr. Conner stressed the need to acknowledge that there is a separately elected body that is responsible for education, even though the Comprehensive Plan is adopted by the City Council. He added that staff will do the edits and check on numbers with Superintendent Young, and then post the draft on the website. 6 Ms. Harrington questioned “school population” and “school capacity” being such different numbers. Mr. Klugo said that it a concern of the School Certification people as more square footage is now needed per student. Mr. Conner said they will get wording for that. c. Community Feedback: Ms. Louisos asked if members felt there is anything that needs changing. Mr. Gagnon cited the numerous comments and letters regarding the map and whether to show potential zoning for South Village. Ms. Quest asked Mr. Conner to check on what the farm would allow and what would be allowed in a community center, which is an allowable use. Mr. Conner thought it would be more of a “for profit” vs. “not for profit” situation. Ms. Quest asked if there is another zoning that would allow some small commercial use that people seem to be OK with. Mr. Conner said the question is whether that could be in other locations such as Mayfair Park, the Orchards, etc., or whether it should be somewhere more compact. Ms. Harrington said she didn’t feel that people understood that there could be more density there with what is now allowed. Mr. Klugo said he is a strong supporter of mixed use; however, in this development, where the developer is still in control, he felt the community needs to be built out as it is now approved. He was not comfortable with an orange or red dot. Until the community is built out, and the residents have the upper hand, it should stay as it is. Ms. LaRose encouraged members to look at the more specific language in the plan and ask what is the “general intensity” they want and whether all red or yellow areas are the intensity. Mr. Klugo acknowledged they are not, but they define the kinds of uses. He felt there is no need for a red dot, because it is already allowed in the yellow area. He felt it was not part of the disclosures to the people who bought into South Village. Ms. Harrington didn’t favor the higher intensity and felt that multi-units were not what that area is for. Ms. Louisos felt there should be more orange, if there are going to be more 10-12 units buildings. Mr. Klugo said that by changing the color, they would be giving the expectation that the zoning will change to meet what the color allows. He didn’t think it needs to be anything but yellow in South Village. Mr. Gagnon had no problem with all yellow. Members were OK with that. 7 Mr. Conner said they tried to connect green areas where they could. One feedback was to indicate some connections where they are not obvious. She showed this on the map. He suggested connecting the green all the way to the Lake. He also indicated an area near the Cider Mill where the green area will have to be narrowed a bit. Ms. Quest said she would like to boil down Mr. Paquette’s comments regarding reducing litter. Mr. Klugo said there are costs involved in this, and he questioned how to promote that this is something people should do without having to “pay to be clean.” Mr. Conner suggested that this should be in the quality of life objectives/strategies. Mr. Conner noted he met with the Bike/Pedestrian Committee and made some changes; one suggestion is to work on Patchen Road to slow things down. Members then considered the “mix of housing” requirement in the Southeast Quadrant. Mr. Klugo said “requiring” is not appropriate for the Comprehensive Plan and suggested “implementing” as an alternative. Mr. Conner then noted the City Council has asked to meet with the Commission on 12 November. Staff supports this date. Members felt they would like to read through comments to see if there is anything else they would like to address. Mr. Gagnon suggested working on the Top 5 concerns and focusing on the “big stuff” and letting staff do the little things. Mr. Conner noted the Commission will need to see a draft with all the changes so they can vote it out. Mr. Conner said staff will flag what they think is critical. He noted specifically a policy statement around the acquisition of homes in the Chamberlin/Airport neighborhood, which will not be addressed until the Chamberlin/Airport Committee finishes its work. 6. Other Business: a. Upcoming Meetings: Members agreed to a short meeting on 3 November with other meetings on 27 October, 10 November and 12 November (with the City Council). 8 7. Minutes of 22 September (Noon meeting), 22 September (7 p.m. meeting) and 3 October: Ms. Quest moved to approve all minutes as presented. Mr. Riehle seconded. Motion passed unanimously. As there was no further business to come before the Commission, the meeting was adjourned by common consent at 10:05 p.m. ___________________________________ Clerk SOUTH BURLINGTON PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES 24 NOVEMBER 2015 1 The South Burlington Planning Commission held a regular meeting on Tuesday, 24 November 2015, at 7:00 p.m., in the Conference Room, City Hall, 575 Dorset Street. MEMBERS PRESENT: J. Louisos, Chair; T. Harrington, B. Gagnon, S. Quest, A. Klugo ALSO PRESENT: P. Conner, Director of Planning & Zoning; C. LaRose, City Planner; T. Chittenden, S. Dopp, S. Darnell 1. Agenda: Additions, deletions or changes in order of agenda items: No changes were made to the Agenda. 2. Open to the public for items not related to the agenda: No issues were raised. 3. Planning Commissioner announcements and staff reports: Ms. Louisos: noted receipt of the draft Capital Improvement Plan. Mr. Conner: The City Council has acknowledged receipt the draft LDRs and Official Map. There will be public hearings on 7 December 2015 for the JAM Golf-related amendments and on 21 December for the remainder of the documents. The ad for these hearings went into the paper last Thursday, which means the draft new regulations are now in effect pending the Council’s action. 4. Receive Final Report/Recommendations from the Sustainable Agriculture Subcommittee; formal conclusion of the subcommittee’s work: Ms. Quest provided a brief summary of the Subcommittee’s final recommendations. She said the hope is this will eventually go to the City Council. Ms. Quest also noted that South Village would like permission for a “food hub” and hoped that can happen by spring, 2016. She asked if this can be in the next round of amendments. Mr. Conner said that is up to the Commission. He felt there is a window for something not too complicated. Ms. Darnell of South Village said they are investigating ways in which their farm can become more productive and are talking with the Intervale people to explore this. Mr. Conner said the timing of amendments would depend in part on everyone’s comfort level. If it were straightforward, it could be completed in the short term if Commissioners made it a priority, but if there is a lot of opposition, it could become an issue and the Commission may wish to take more time. He 2 said if it fits under the state definition of a “farm,” there would be no issue. He said they can look at what the Town of Shelburne has done. He also noted a report done by the Vermont Law School regarding add-ons to agriculture that communities can do. Ms. Quest hoped there could be a “food committee” somewhere when the Council discusses committees again. Ms. Louisos thanked the subcommittee for all of their work. 5. Initial Discussion/framework for a City Center Form Based Code Master Permit Process: Mr. Conner suggested that before diving into the nuts and bolts, to step back and discuss the bigger picture – what the Commission hopes to achieve through flexibility. Ms. LaRose said they are trying to figure out what the Commission is most firm on, what the goals are, and whether regulations are the best way to achieve those goals. She suggested the possibility of changing a standard to achieve the same goal. One possible scenario Ms. LaRose presented related to lot coverage. The aim is to cover a certain percentage of a lot. What then happens when there are multiple lots next to each other? Can there be no lot line? Another scenario involved one-story buildings. Ms. LaRose noted the Commission was unanimous on not having one-story buildings. But if you’re looking at multiple buildings, does that make a difference. What if the one-story building is only a small percentage of a street line? Ms. LaRose said she felt there can be a consultant to work through some of this, but the Commission needs to determine if there are any “absolutes” or anything they would like to see in a mixed use environment. Also, what is the threshold for flexibility? Mr. Klugo asked how a multi-lot scenario in City Center would differ from any other multi-lot scenario. Mr. Conner said that in City Center, the regulations are crafted lot by lot. It is designed to be “black and white” to allow for administrative review. Mr. Klugo asked if two lots can be combined into one lot. Mr. Conner said they can, but the code is designed to meet each street requirement and is written through the lens of one property at a time. Ms. LaRose said there is a real opportunity for people with a large enough property to put together something that does meet the city’s vision. The question is how to make that happen. She felt it can be done, but there still has to be a standard for the DRB to follow, and it needs to be written as clearly as possible. 3 Ms. LaRose said they have talked with property owners. For a building under 2000 sq. ft., a second story becomes very expensive. So there can be a value to a smaller building in an area of larger buildings. They have heard that artificial lot lines can be a problem as bankers want to see lot lines for financing purposes. Mr. Klugo asked if there can no longer be deviations from the code when it makes sense. Mr. Conner cited the doorway option with an alternate approach that can meet the intent. Deviations can be sent to the DRB with specific criteria or to the “legislative body” where rules get adopted for a specific project. Ms. LaRose said the risk of that is that you need to have a very good reason to make an exception. Mr. Klugo said you are talking about something that can be creative and be a benefit to the community. Ms. LaRose said there are things you can do in some cases to allow variety. Mr. Klugo said he thought it was too early to ask for exceptions to allow alternates right out of the gate, when you don’t know yet what you are going to get. Mr. Conner said maybe it doesn’t have to be 70% coverage on each street, but maybe an average of 70% on all streets. He suggested the possibility of a very urban street with something a little less urban around the corner. Ms. LaRose cited the importance of being open to a circumstance where a change makes a project better. Mr. Chittenden felt it was acceptable to think of things in a different way for larger piece of property and cited Act 250. Ms. Harrington noted that Act 250 is more stringent for larger properties and this would be less stringent. Mr. Gagnon did not agree and felt this is not “less than” but “different from.” Mr. Klugo said he would say: show us how you will meet the form based code and let us evaluate it; otherwise we may be missing something that is good. He felt other communities have embedded formulas in the code even for smaller projects. Mr. Conner noted it is in the Commission’s work plan to have adjustments to the code. He acknowledged they can’t envision every possible scenario. He suggested that a master plan could use the code as a base. Ms. Quest said she was confused as to why the form based code committee wasn’t dealing with this. She added that Eric Farrell liked the code because he knew just what to do. Ms. LaRose cited an area of Boston with one-story commercial buildings next to large churches, and the effect is wonderful. She added that a lot of form based codes have language that says: do this unless the Planning Director says otherwise. Mr. Conner cited a scenario which could involve buildings situated around a large plaza with a possible arts center in the middle. This would currently not be allowed. He stressed that this is not something being proposed, just an example. 4 Mr. Klugo noted South Burlington has “skipped the organic process” of going from a “village center” to a “city center.” He said he would like to see what other communities are doing to handle similar situations. Ms. Louisos said she would be OK with a few “as a right” one-story buildings, but for anything more, she would want something very stringent in the regulations. Mr. Klugo cited the Trader Joe’s building where there are shades drawn over some of the glass all of the time, so it might just as well have been masonry. Mr. Conner noted there is an RFP for “Planning Services to the City” for the next few years. Proposals are being reviewed now. Mr. Klugo said that about 70% of the City Center space will be residential, some apartments, some condos, etc. He asked how what is happening in South Village can be avoided…namely large “for lease” signs on the apartment buildings. Mr. Conner said he would check on that. Mr. Conner noted there has been no talk from the private sector about reducing open space or reducing affordable housing. What he is hearing is: allow creativity without lowering the bar. Members wanted to see what other communities are doing and the results, if possible. 6. Other Business: a. Public Service Board application: 45 day pre-application for the City of South Burlington’s Proposed 1.8 MW Solar Array to be Located off Airport Parkway: Ms. Louisos noted the Commission does not have to respond. Mr. Klugo said his only concern is the fences around these arrays that affect animal migration. b. Town of Colchester Zoning Amendments (public hearing 15 December 2015): The Commission had no issues. c. Town of Shelburne subdivision amendments (public hearing 10 December 2015): The Commission had not issues. d. Upcoming Meetings: 5 The next Commission meeting will be 8 December 2015 and will include the first pass at the CCRPC Planning Grants. The City Council presentation on the LDRs will be on 21 December. Mr. Conner suggested as many Commission members as possible attend. Members were OK with not holding a regular meeting on 22 December. 7. Minutes of 22 September (noon and evening meetings), 27 October, 3 November, and 10 November: It was noted that in the Minutes of 27 October, p. 3, “Pizzagalli building” should read “Pizzagalli Properties.” On p. 4 of the same minutes, the reference to Swift St. should read “Swift Street Extension.” In the Minutes of 10 November, p. 4, second paragraph from the top, members agreed to delete the sentence “Mr. Klugo said this would create a very stale environment” as it appeared to have no context. Ms. Quest then moved to approve all Minutes presented as written and/or amended. Ms. Harrington seconded. Motion passed 5-0. As there was no further business to come before the Commission, the meeting was adjourned by common consent at 8:55 p.m. ___________________________________ Clerk