HomeMy WebLinkAboutAgenda 07_DRB minutes
DEVELOPMENT REVIEW BOARD 5 MARCH 2019
The South Burlington Development Review Board held a regular meeting on Tuesday, 5 March 2019,
at 7:00 p.m. in the Conference Room, City Hall, 575 Dorset Street.
MEMBERS PRESENT: B. Miller, Chair; J Smith, F. Kochman, M. Cota, M. Behr
ALSO PRESENT: D. Hall (Administrative Officer), M. Keene (Development Review Planner), D. Crawford,
D. Murdoch, D. Dugan, S. Dopp, P. Ewing, D. Heil, S. Forest, B. Hoar, S. Vallee, S. Hochner, C. Galipeau, S.
Limoge, C. Frank
1. Directions on emergency evacuation procedures from conference room:
Mr. Miller provided directions on emergency evacuation procedures.
2. Additions, deletions, or changes in order of agenda items:
None.
3. Comments and questions from the public not related to the Agenda:
No issues were raised.
4. Announcements:
Mr. Miller announced that the Board will need 2 members as of July 1.
City Council has adopted a city‐wide conflict of interest policy. The DRB rules of procedure contains its
own conflict policy which was used as the basis for the city‐wide policy. The DRB rules should therefore
be amended to remove the conflict policy and defer to the city‐wide one. Staff has prepared a draft
amendment with suggested changes which will be in the Board’s packet for the next meeting.
In doing this exercise, Counsel has made recommendations for other clarifying changes to the DRB rules.
To keep the conflict of interest policy updates on the fast track, Staff will be providing the other
recommended changes separately. Staff anticipates the Board will interested in scrutinizing the other
clarifying changes as they pertain to required procedure.
5. Continued Master plan application #MP‐18‐01 and preliminary plat application #SD‐18‐29 of
Dorset Meadows Associates LLC for a planned unit development on two lots developed with
one (1) single family dwelling. The planned unit development is to consist of 103 single family
homes, 26 dwelling units in two‐family homes, 20 dwelling units in multi‐family homes, one
existing single family home, conservation of 15.80 acres on‐site and conservation of
approximately 55 acres off‐site through the purchase of 66.4 Transfer Development Rights,
1505 Dorset Street.
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5 MARCH 2019
PAGE 2
The applicant has requested continuation to the March 19, 2019 meeting. Mr. Cota made a
motion to continue the hearing to March 19, 2020. Ms. Smith seconded. All members present
voted in favor.
6. Natural Resource Committee Presentation
Dave Crawford & Duncan Murdoch were the presenters.
Ms. Keene described that the NRC is currently working towards better defining their goals to
have a positive impact on South Burlington. As part of their efforts, the Committee reviewed
the "Board Guidance to Committees" document the DRB adopted last year, and recognized an
opportunity to take a more active role in review of Development projects, like the Recreation
and Parks committee and the Bike and Ped committee have done for some time.
Mr. Crawford said the NRC identified 7 areas of priority. They’ll prepare for themselves a
“trigger point” document to decide whether they are interested in providing comments on an
application, and then use the areas of priority to draft those comments. Mr. Crawford said they
would like to meet with developers, perhaps in joint meetings with Recreation & Parks and Bike
& Ped Committee.
Mr. Cota noted the Board is looking for this sort of collaboration and expertise from
committees. He asked how quickly and at what stage could the committee provide a trigger
point assessment? Mr. Crawford & Mr. Murdoch responded by saying that the Committee
wants to be involved as early as possible, to avoid assumptions about natural resources. They do
not want to be playing “catch‐up”. They also noted that they would be able to put together
working groups.
The DRB would be interested in seeing trigger point and score card documents for their
understanding of what the NRC is looking at.
Mr. Crawford stated that he is interested in having the DRB be aware of what issues the NRC is
interested in are.
The Board noted that they feel that the earlier the NRC can get involved, the better. Mr. Behr
noted that he feels that the admin preliminary feedback should include committee feedback.
Mr. Kochman stated that he wants to make sure that the Committee gets things as a matter of
course rather than having the Board direct NRC to look at the application.
Mr. Miller stated that he agreed with the feel of the Board but cautioned that the DRB is held to
the LDRs. Mr. Behr reminded the Board and the NRC that even if the request is outside the LDRs,
it never hurts to ask.
Mr. Kochman asked about the efficiency factor of the various committees.
Mr. Kochman also asked if Staff can incorporate all committee suggestions into staff comments.
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Mr. Kochman then asked about joining efforts with other commitees. Mr. Crawford noted that
he sees the efficiency but cautions of conflicting interests.
Mr. Crawford stated that you can spend time on legal arguments or you can spend time and
money on asking for things that are consistent with City goals, with the understanding that they
can say no. Ms. Keene noted that the Committee is free to be aspirational and it is the Board’s
responsibility to enforce the LDR.
7. Site plan application #SP‐19‐02 of Champlain Housing Trust to amend a previously approved
site plan for a 104 unit multi‐building residential complex. The amendment is for approval to
revise the landscape plan by removing trees, 435 Dorset Street.
Mr. Dugan represented the applicant. The plan is to remove the trees for maintenance
purposes. The trees in question are inside the loop road. There was some discussion about a
potential abutter notification issue. Mr. Dugan noted that he would prefer to discuss the issues
now and then re‐do the abutter notice.
The Board then went through the staff comments:
Objectives of the Comp Plan – Mr. Miller stated that he felt that vibrant streetscapes meant
trees. Staff asked the Board to consider adequacy of trees to remain when making a
determination on the application. Mr. Kochman asked about how many trees that are not
required for screening purposes are not proposed to be cut down. Mr. Miller then read Section
13.06(I) of the LDRs. Mr. Kochman noted that he thinks that there is nothing that restricts the
DRB’s ability to allow a site plan to be amended. The Board’s authority is to allow amendment if
they think it’s reasonable to do so, however, the DRB should not allow trees to be destroyed.
Mr. Behr wants the applicant to actually amend the site plan to show the trees to be removed as
removed, as opposed to showing them, to better illustrate what the site will look like without
the trees.
Mr. Cota noted that he would like to hear from the abutters.
Mr. Miller confirmed that the issue is less of tree health and more of building health.
The Board then went through the NRC comments which were presented by Mr. Crawford. The
NRC is interested in seeing a tree replacement plan prepared by a professional. There is no tree
management plan, and would like there to be one. Mr. Dugan agreed that there was no
management plan and that there should be ongoing management.
Mr. Dugan asked for clarification on what standards the Board is aiming towards. He needs to be
able to tell the landscape architect what the objective is.
Mr. Kochman stated that he interprets Section 13.06(I) to say that you may not remove trees
unless you amend your site plan, or if you are replacing trees with less than a 5” caliper. Mr.
Kochman responded to Mr. Dugan’s previous question by saying that there is no LDR guidance
therefore the Board has to exercise a reasonable discretion. There should be reasonable regard
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for the integrity of the building and then an aesthetic consideration, and also an ecological
consideration. Mr. Behr agreed with the priorities and that the landscape architect should
balance building health, forest health & aesthetics. Mr. Behr stated that he is concerned that
removing 30% of the trees is a “nuclear” option.
Mr. Kochman stated that if the NRC is opposed, they should provide concrete evidence that
there is an ecological impact. Mr. Crawford responded by saying that they would like to
collaborate.
Ms. Dopp commented that she agrees that this points to a need for revision to the LDRs. She
noted that she thinks the text applies well to a new development but doesn’t work so well for
an older development. Mr. Kochman stated that he thinks the first sentence means that maybe
this is a maintenance issue, and if the maintenance was not done, there could be enforcement.
Regarding the Planning Commission and the NRC, Mr. Kochman suggested that it may be more
productive to have sub‐committee meetings.
Mr. Behr then moved to continue Site Plan application #SP‐19‐02 of Champlain Housing
Trust to April 2, 2019. Ms. Smith seconded. All members present voted in favor.
8. Final plat application #SD‐19‐04 of Peter Ewing to subdivide an existing 13.2 acre undeveloped
parcel into two (2) lots of 3.6 acres and 9.6 acres for the purpose of constructing a single
family home on the 3.6 acre lot and conserving the 9.6 acre lot, and providing access to three
new home lots in Shelburne, 133 Cheesefactory Lane.
Mr. Ewing represented himself.
Mr. Ewing showed the lots on the plan and explained that 48 acres are to be conveyed to the
Nature Conservancy
M. Keene explained that the stormwater acreage in South Burlington is below the ½ acre
threshold for local review.
Mr. Cota made a motion to close the hearing. Ms. Smith seconded. All members present voted
in favor.
9. Sketch plan application #SD‐19‐05 of DS, LLC for the construction of a parking lot for off‐site
storage of vehicles and associated stormwater treatment facility, 2 Holmes Road.
The applicant was represented by Mr. Heil (engineer), Ms. Forest (property owner) and Mr. Hoar
(Goss Dodge). Mr. Miller explained the sketch plan process.
Mr. Hoar stated that the reason for this application is that they need additional room for
storage. Mr. Heil emphasized that it would be storage for the business and not accessible to the
public. He noted that they are proposing a gravel wetland and would need a state stormwater
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permit. He noted that he believes that the landscaping and striping requirements are for making
a parking lot attractive. He also noted that outdoor storage is defined and is allowed in the
zoning district. However, he also read the standard that states that storage must be
appurtenant to the use on the property.
Ms. Keene described that outdoor storage is not allowed except as an appurtenant use. The
Board felt that this was cut and dry, and that they’re welcome to subdivide it and sell to the
Goss Dodge site or they could treat it as a commercial parking lot.
The Board felt that it has to be a commercial parking facility, but is open to creative
configuration of landscaping, curbing and striping.
The NRC indicated that they would like to review the plans.
10. Sketch plan application #SD‐19‐06 of R.L. Vallee, Inc. to demolish an existing hotel and a
portion of an existing service station and create a planned unit development consisting of an
expanded service station with four additional fueling positions for a total of twelve and
associated 4,500 square foot retail sales building, 793 and 907 Shelburne Road.
11.
The applicant was represented by Mr. Vallee, Mr. Hochner and Mr. Galipeau. Mr. Cota recused
himself from the discussion.
Mr. Hochner stated that he wants to help get things right and he chose Vallee because they
produce a good development and try to fit in with the town’s needs. Mr. Hochner noted that
the buildings on site were built in the 1950s and 1960s, with some interior and exterior
renovations. Because of their age, they need to be replaced. In 2017 1 pump was removed. Mr.
Hochner noted that he purchased the Maple Leaf Motel in 1993. When it was purchased it was
already operating as extended duration housing, but it is not designated for that use. Mr.
Hochner also stated that they have negotiated with Hannarford and CWD to make a workable
project.
Mr. Vallee then highlighted the proposed changes:
‐he noted that the Board thinks that taking of money for sales of the gas on the other lot
constituted a gasoline service station use on the other lot. Mr. Vallee stated that he believes
they have addressed this with putting the section of the store with the checkout on the north
lot.
‐CWD has installed shut‐off valves on either side of the line and are accepting of the proposal to
move it.
‐the project is being proposed as PUD, but Mr. Vallee doesn’t care if it’s not. He noted that he
thinks the setback issues are addressed by a PUD but that it might be solved by merging the lots.
‐regarding traffic, Mr. Vallee stated that they think they can make it work. They believe that new
entrances and closing of curb cuts would comply with the traffic overlay district.
The Board then went over the staff comments which were organized by use and by layout.
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1. Non‐conformities ‐ if they were to merge the lots, would it put a permissible non‐
conforming use onto an otherwise conforming lot? Mr. Kochman stated that he thinks the
merging of the lots would probably be OK. Mr. Behr noted that he thinks it would deal with
the sale of gasoline issues. He went on to note that his issue is layout and expanding the
non‐conforming lots, and doesn’t see adding retail to a non‐conforming fuel facility as an
expansion of a non‐conforming use, though he does see a major issue with expanding the
pumps. Even if it weren’t a non‐conforming issue, he stated that he thinks the pumps don’t
fit. Mr. Vallee stated that he will bring the pump issue to the court, but doesn’t want to
pursue it with the DRB. Ms. Smith stated that she doesn’t see a problem with merging the
lots as a solution to the fuel sales and PUD issue.
2. It was noted that the PUD is no longer an issue.
3. Comp plan goals are trigged by the PUD. Ms. Keene encouraged the applicant to consider
the comp plan though the Board made it clear that they’re not allowed to require
compliance. Ms. Smith brought up the housing issue.
4. Traffic – Ms. Keene emphasized that 206 is a lot of trips for them to try and mitigate and the
Board should take seriously whether to take on faith that the applicant can mitigate them or
require them to give a hint as to how they’re going to deal with it. Mr. Hochner said that
there are a lot more trips on Hannaford drive now and he thinks that there can be a
significant reduction through that connection. Mr. Kochman would like the Board to give
guidance that it’s a serious concern and that they’d like the applicant to work hard to show
how they can meet the standard. Mr. Vallee stated that they have a plan and they think they
can get there.
5. Housing Replacement – Mr. Kochman read out that it's a dwelling unit regardless of how its
permitted if it has sanitary, cooking, and sleeping. Mr. Hochner stated there are 8 dwelling
units that meet this definition. The Board feels occupancy is irrelevant. The housing
replacement fee is 25% of the appraised value. There are 13 units, 8 of them have
facilities. Mr. Kochman thinks that they don't get the benefit of the mis‐use of the
property. Mr. Miller think they should not be considered dwelling units, but agrees that Mr.
Kochman’s interpretation is correct. Mr. Kochman thinks they get to use the assessed value
of the building but don’t have to use the grand list value.
6. Dimensional requirements ‐ the applicant was concerned about the suggestion that they
meet 30% max front setback coverage. They're no longer proposing green space over
pavement. Mr. Miller said he's ok with an improvement. He wants them to show why they
can't do better. Ms. Smith agreed. Mr. Behr asked if the dumpsters could have less
pavement around them. Mr. Galipeau said they're on the tank pad so they can't be
improved. Mr. Behr would be fine with adding planters around the dumpsters, but they
won't count as green space.
7. Urban design overlay ‐ they can find a building that meets this standard.
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8. Circulation – Mr. Galipeau met with Vtrans on the site. They're aware that they need a
LOI. Vtrans initial read is that they're improving. They're allowed up to 40' curb
cuts. Narrower curb cuts would require a wider swing into shelburne road. They'll refine
the layout for 4 pumps. Ms. Keene tried to clarify that the Board is not going to approve
extra pavement just to reserve the space for 6 pumps, they didn't really seem to understand
this,
9. Parking – Mr. Miller wants to classify it as retail.
10. Infrastructure improvements
CWD easement already discussed
Ped access ‐ they haven't looked at pedestrian connection to Hannaford
property. They'll look at it. Ms. Smith suggested they look at mirroring the
infrastructure in the Hannaford lot with markings rather than additional
impervious. Mr. Hochner said that no one will be using the sidewalk across from
Lindenwood. Mr. Miller recommends they discuss with the bike & ped committee.
They're trying to move the sidewalk away from Rte 7 and this is creating conflicts with
utility poles.
Public comment was then solicited as follows.
Ms. Limoge is the multifamily abutter to the west. She brought up the issue of fuel impacts and
contamination, and is in the middle of court proceedings. She states that she wants to put this in the
record that they want development not to proceed until this is resolved.
C. Frank, representing the bike & pedestrian committee, spoke that she appreciates the green space to
the north that solves the over‐hang issue. Wants to see a connection to Hannaford for pedestrians. She
emphasized that the corrections to the Shelburne Road crosswalk doesn't require any physical changes,
just moving the buttons and the stripes. Mr. Gailipeau responded that the City should go to VTrans with
this recommendation
10. Minutes
No minutes were reviewed.
11. Other Business:
No other business was presented.
As there was no further business to come before the Board, the meeting was adjourned by common
consent at 10:05pm.
These minutes were approved by the Board on ____.
DEVELOPMENT REVIEW BOARD 17 NOVEMBER 2020
The South Burlington Development Review Board held a regular meeting on Tuesday, 17
November 2020, at 7:00 p.m. via Go to Meeting interactive technology.
MEMBERS PRESENT: M. Cota, Chair; B. Sullivan, J. Wilking, D. Philibert, J. Langan, E. Portman
ALSO PRESENT: D. Hall, Administrative Officer; M. Keene, Development Review Planner; B.
Bouchard, B. Duncan, C. Orben, C. Frank, C. Knauf. D. Marshall, C. Gendron, J. Page, L. Lackey, P
& C. Lussier, S. Beall, S. Theriault, D. Morrissey
1. Additions, deletions, or changes in order of agenda items:
No changes were made to the agenda.
2. Comments and questions from the public not related to the Agenda:
No issues were raised.
3. Announcements:
Mr. Cota asked people to sign the virtual sign‐in sheet or email their presence at the meeting to
Ms. Keene. This is imperative if a person wishes to appeal a decision of the Board. Mr. Cota
also explained how members of the public can comment during the meeting.
4. Annual Re‐organization:
Ms. Keene presided over the reorganization portion of the meeting. She opened the floor for
nominations.
Mr. Wilking nominated Mr. Cota for Chair, Mr. Sullivan for Vice Chair, and Ms. Philibert for
Clerk. Ms. Portman seconded.
There were no further nominations, and via a rollcall vote, Mr. Cota, Mr. Sullivan, and Ms.
Philibert were elected 6‐0.
Mr. Cota noted a request to move the meeting on 2 March (Town Meeting Day) to the next
night. Members agreed to do this.
Members also agreed to have their annual recess on what would have been the second
meeting in August.
DEVELOPMENT REVIEW BOARD
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Mr. Cota presided over the remainder of the meeting.
5. Sketch Plan Application #SD‐20‐20 of Beta Sir, LLC, to amend a previously approved
plan for an airport complex. The amendment consists of constructing a 762 sq. ft.
second‐story addition to an approved 60,300 sq. ft., 3‐story hangar/office building,
1150 Airport Drive:
Mr. Cota explained the nature of a sketch plan and stressed that no binding decision would be
made at this stage.
Mr. Page then showed an overview of the site. He said the project proposes to install a second
story in order to bring the office area up to the same standard as the work just finished on the
rest of the building. He indicated where the second story would be placed at the south end of
the building. They will create a steel mezzanine for mechanicals and containers that they
manufacture. Mr. Page showed a conception of this and indicated a gutter to handle runoff
and protect the equipment below it from snow and ice.
Mr. Page noted the “containers” are actually 3 shipping containers that will be cut open and
have a finished appearance on the interior. Other containers on the site are for storage and
manufacturing. They are also proposing a container for a bike storage facility. Mr. Page noted
that Beta has a number of electric bikes.
The parking will be reconfigured to make it more organized. One space will be eliminated for a
total of 14. There will also be 8 electric vehicle charging stations. Entrances will be formalized
with a canopy over the sidewalk. The pavement edge will also be redefined. At the east end of
the site, the patio will be expanded and will have more pavers and additional landscaping.
There will also be steel planters. The dry well in the center of the parking area will be improved
on.
Staff comments were then addressed as follows:
a. Staff is unclear about the configuration. Mr. Gendron said the overhang will go out
10‐12 feet. There will not be parking under it, but there will be utilities there. Ms.
Keene noted that some of the site features aren’t labeled and asked to see the
existing conditions plan. Mr. Gendron said they will have that for the next
submission. Mr. Sullivan felt the compatibility was excellent.
b. Re: waste disposal, the dumpster is not shown on the plan. Mr. Gendron said there
is an existing dumpster that Beta uses. Construction waste will be managed by the
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contractor. Ms. Keene said the existing dumpster will have to be enclosed as part of
this application.
c. Ms. Keene noted that the minimum landscaping value required is $2500. The
Master Plan allows for landscaping on site. She asked if the Board is OK with the
steel planters. Ms. Orben explained that the there will be 5 planters, 2’x4’. They will
be planted with grasses. She estimated $4750 in value plus the plants. Members
were OK with the planters.
Pubic comment was then solicited. There was no public comment.
Ms. Philibert left the meeting at this point.
6. Preliminary and final plat application #SD‐20‐37 of Ninety Nine Swift Street
Associates, LLC, to create a planned unit development of 2 lots at 99 Swift Street and
105 Swift Street and construct a 3‐story, 6,800 sq. ft. 20‐unit mixed rate residential
building, and associated site improvements on the lot at 105 Swift Street, 105 Swift
Street:
Mr. Cota explained the nature of preliminary and final plat applications, noting that the DRB will
issue a decision on the application.
Mr. Marshall showed an overhead photo of the project. He noted that 2 properties are
involved. The property on the left is accessed by the Farrell Park access. He then showed
renderings of the proposed building. Each residential unit will be 600‐700 sq. ft. Two of the
residential units will be affordable. For the exterior of the buildings, different materials will be
used including fiber cement siding, some wood siding, and slate siding above the entrances.
There will also be some vertical siding. Materials will relate to the commercial building. The
stairwell will have slate tiles. Each floor will have a central corridor and balconies for residents
to enjoy. Two entrances will face Swift Street. Rooftop equipment, including condensing units
for air conditioners for each unit, will not be visible from Swift Street because of the angle of
the slope of the street.
On the interior, bedrooms will have a large window, and living rooms will have paired windows.
The window pattern will also be energy efficient.
Staff comments were then addressed as follows:
a. Re: screening of rooftop equipment, the applicant showed a view from Swift
Streets that made the building “invisible.” They also showed an eye‐level
view in which the roof equipment was also not visible. There will also be
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more trees planted there which will make it harder to see the building. They
felt that screening would be more visible than the equipment. Members
were OK with the presented screening.
b. Staff asked that the 6‐foot high privacy fence be removed in favor of
additional landscaping for a buffer. Mr. Marshall noted they worked with the
arborist on what is to be removed (including all the ash trees). There will be
8 to 12 new trees on the east side for screening and urban wildlife. Ms. Knox
said the focus of the landscaping plan is native plants, which live a lot longer.
They will also plant pollinators and native berry shrubs. There will be as
much diversity as possible and a lot of year‐round interest. Ms. Knox
indicated the area for terraces which will have a grill and seating area and
green space. Accessibility will be by stairs or the public sidewalk. Mr.
Marshall said the retaining wall is a buffer between land uses. The 6‐foot
high fence is to create separation from the single family house. It was
requested by the Lussiers. Mr. Lussier said that was the only thing they
asked for. They like the project as designed. Members had no problem with
the fence and felt that animals could get around it.
c. Re: glazing, Mr. Marshall said he felt they have a balance between the
commercial and residential buildings. The high windows in the residential
building allow for more light. Mr. Wilking felt they could have juliette
balconies but were otherwise attractive.
d. Re: landscaping budget, Ms. Keene said this may have been met, depending
on the adjustments made to the presented plan.
e/f. Staff questioned whether the large oak and maple trees can be kept. Mr.
Marshall said the Arborist said the oak is in the way of the sidewalk, and there
would have to be a jog to get around it. Public works said to remove it as jogs
hamper snow removal. Ms. Keene said staff can further look into that concern.
Ms. Knox noted that the maple had no leaves on it during the summer, and the
assumption is it is not alive. The arborist did not feel it was worth saving.
g. Re: snow storage, Ms. Keene noted the applicant must have State approval to
use the wetland. Mr. Marshall said they have removed it from the wetland
buffer. There will also not be snow storage in the access drive.
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h. Re: perennials, staff is asking to replace them with plantings up to at least the
minimum landscaping value. Ms. Keene noted perennials are hard to keep track
of. Mr. Wilking felt this was not a situation where perennials make sense. Mr.
Marshall said they haven’t taken credit for existing trees. The new budget is
$40,105. Even without the perennials they meet the minimum. He felt,
however, that the perennials were important to the landscaping plans for variety
and as pollinators. Ms. Keene said they’ve included the fence in the minimum,
which is not allowed, and without the fence they do not meet the minimum.
i. Ms. Keene said there is a question of whether the stormwater design is
adequate to meet a 1” storm. Mr. Marshall said they complied with what
is written in the rules. He also cited frustration with changing rules. He
said the LDRs call for them to design for 0.9”. The State now requires 1”,
but they don’t need a state permit. Ms. Keene said the LDRs say they
should meet the “quality volume” which is now 1”. Mr. Marshall said
they will meet that.
j. Staff is questioning the Farrell Park access and why it is beneficial. Mr.
Marshall noted they have now made it one‐way in. He showed the current drive
to Farrell Park and said the Fire Marshall preferred that it be kept open. He
didn’t feel people going to the new building would use that access. Mr. Wilking
was fine with staff’s suggestion to neck it down, but he was also OK as it is.
Other members were OK to allow it as is.
k. Re: sewer service. Mr. Cota asked if they discussed collaborating with the
neighbor to bring sewer service. Mr. Lousier said it is prohibitive for them at this
point. Ms. Keene said the applicant is not required to extend the sewer to the
adjacent property.
l. The applicant noted they have provided for downcast, shielded light fixtures.
Public comment was then solicited. There was no public comment.
Ms. Keene suggested continuing to get input regarding removal of the oak tree from the
arborist and Public Works.
Mr. Cota moved to continue SD‐20‐37 to 1 December 2020. Mr. Wilking seconded. Motion
passed 5‐0 via a rollcall vote.
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7. Sketch plan application #SD‐20‐38 of Pizzagalli Properties to amend a previously
approved Planned Unit Development consisting of a 151,266 sq. ft. shopping center
(including outdoor garden center), a 55,000 sq. ft. supermarket, a 3585 sq. ft. bank
with drive‐through service, a 3,014 sq. ft. standard restaurant and a 4,116 sq. ft. short
order restaurant. The amendment consists of resubdividing the existing parcels
containing the 55,000 sq. ft. supermarket and the roadway, abandoning a future city
street, and constructing a commercial parking lot for the purpose of a shuttle lot, 218
Hannaford Drive:
Mr. Langan recused himself due to a potential conflict of interest.
Mr. Cota explained the nature of a sketch plan and noted there would be no decision rendered
by the Board.
Mr. Bouchard showed an overhead photo of the site. He noted that Pizzagalli was asked by the
Medical Center to help with a parking problem. This is one of a few sites they found. It is a 2.8
acre parcel east of the former Hannaford market. The property is currently vacant. They were
recently informed by staff that a portion of the property is controlled by the City via a warranty
deed. Had they known this, they would not have submitted the plan. They have now sent in
some revisions to the plan which do not involve any city‐controlled property (extension of
Fayette Drive shown on the official city map). They would have to get City Council approval to
remove that road, and they are not going to go that route.
Mr. Bouchard then showed a plan of an amended PUD and where the new parking lot is
proposed. It eliminates the City‐controlled property. The project property is now 2.3 acres and
does not put them over lot coverage. There is a setback to the City‐controlled property.
Mr. Cota asked if there is a shelter on the site for people waiting for transportation. Mr.
Bouchard said the Med Center said “no” to that. There is a bike rack.
Mr. Cota also asked about the possibility of using the former Hannaford parking lot. Mr.
Bouchard said Hannaford is trying to release that site to another user and won’t release it to
the Med Center.
Staff comments were then addressed as follows:
a. Re: Fayette Road: Approval for the PUD says the roadway must be
constructed prior to occupancy of the first building on lots “D”, “E” or “H”.
Mr. Cota said the applicant is just adding impervious, not a building. Mr.
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17 NOVEMBER 2020
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Sullivan said there are no buildings on “D”, “E” or “H”. He also noted that
ambiguity or omissions on those drafting decisions favor the applicant. Mr.
Wilking said the road would not be going anywhere without a building “H”.
Building the road would be a waste of money.
b. Staff asked the Board to consider whether a commercial parking lot is a
fitting use. Mr. Cota asked if the lot is only for Med Center use. Mr.
Bouchard said it is.
c. Staff questioned whether there still could be a building on the lot consistent
with PUD approval. Mr. Bouchard said there could. Some pavement would
have to be torn up and there would have to be appropriate setback from the
city‐controlled property and landscaping.
d. Re: traffic generation, Mr. Bouchard said they still fall under the total
allowable traffic generation for the PUD. There will be a traffic study for
preliminary and final plats. Ms. Hall asked if it would be a 24/7 use. Mr.
Bouchard said he believes not be he will check on that. Ms. Keene asked if
there will be a gate. Mr. Bouchard said there could be. The property will be
secured, but they don’t yet have those details. Ms. Keene asked about a
cross‐lot connection to the lot to the left. Mr. Bouchard said they will look
into that.
Public comment was then solicited. There was no public comment.
8. Minutes of 20 October and 4 November 2020:
Mr. Cota moved to approve the Minutes of 20 October and 4 November 2020 as written. Mr.
Wilking seconded. Motion passed 4‐0.
9. Other Business:
No other business was presented.
As there was no further business to come before the Board, the meeting was adjourned by
common consent at 9:42 p.m.
These minutes were approved by the Board on ______.
DEVELOPMENT REVIEW BOARD
17 NOVEMBER 2020
PAGE 8
DEVELOPMENT REVIEW BOARD 1 DECEMBER 2020
The South Burlington Development Review Board held a regular meeting on Tuesday, 1
December 2020, at 7:00 p.m. via Go to Meeting interactive technology.
MEMBERS PRESENT: M. Cota, Chair; B. Sullivan, J. Wilking, M. Behr, D. Philibert, J. Langan, E.
Portman
ALSO PRESENT: D. Hall, Administrative Officer; M. Keene, Development Review Planner; B.
Brown, Planning Department; H. Rees, Recreation Department; S. Beall, D. Marshall, D.
Morrissey, B. Duncan, S. Theriault, E. Knauf, C. Lussier
1. Additions, deletions, or changes in order of agenda items:
Ms. Keene advised that Item #5 on the published agenda had been withdrawn.
2. Comments and questions from the public not related to the Agenda:
No issues were raised.
3. Announcements:
Ms. Keene noted that at a joint meeting of the City’s Natural Resources, Bike/Ped, Energy and
Recreation and Parks Committees last night, the next phase of the O’Brien development was
presented. There were some good questions and comments. The committees will now review
the presentation at their next meetings and provide feedback to the DRB.
4. Continued Preliminary and Final Plat Application #SD‐20‐37 of 99 Swift Street
Associates, LLC, to create a planned unit development of two lots at 99 Swift Street
and 105 Swift Street and construct a 3‐story, 6800 sq. ft., 20‐unit mixed rate
residential building and associated site improvements on the lot at 105 Swift Street,
105 Swift Street:
Mr. Cota noted that the remaining items were: the entryway, trees, landscaping, and
stormwater.
Mr. Marshall began by addressing the entryway issue. He noted that just off Swift Street there
is an existing curb cut which has been there for 30 years. It provides access and egress for 99
Swift Street. It then continues to provide access to Farrell Park to the south. Mr. Marshall said
this project will allow better control from that access onto Swift Street. He noted it is difficult
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1 DECEMBER 2020
PAGE 2
to egress from 99 Swift Street at certain times of the day. The new access will allow people the
opportunity to enter Swift Street further from the Farrell Street intersection. The
recommendation at the last meeting was for the existing curb cut to be narrowed to allow one‐
way enter only. Mr. Marshall noted that they met with the Fire Marshall who wanted to keep
the existing curb cut for emergency situations, and that is how the project was planned. They
then got some pushback. Mr. Marshall said one option would be to neck down the curb cut to
deter people from breaking the “do not exit” rule. There would then be a mountable curb for
the northern half of the entry.
Ms. Rees said that from her point of view, the chaos at that corner is significant. There is a
breakdown in bike/ped connectivity. She noted there is a path past the dog park, and it would
be great to provide a connection for pedestrians and cyclists. She wasn’t sure it would make
much of a significant difference having just an entryway there. If there wasn’t the shared
access, the bike path connection could be improved. Without getting rid of the entrance all
together, she doesn’t feel there is a safe option available. There is currently too much
fragmentation of the recreation path. Mr. Marshall said they feel that at least half of the traffic
will use the new curb cut. He acknowledged it is a balancing act, and any improvement is
better than what is there now. Ms. Rees said she appreciates the mitigation. She also wouldn’t
go against what the Fire Chief wants. but there are a lot of people trying to make a connection
to the bike area. She noted that a lot of people park in Farrell Park and walk to their businesses
because of the lack of required parking for the businesses. There is a lot of vehicle traffic when
there is little league. She noted that the bike/ped committee has data on accidents and near
misses at that corner.
Mr. Marshall suggested possible striping to provide guidance for bikers and walkers. He was
not sure where the property lines are; if they are on land owned by the city, he felt they could
do some striping. Ms. Rees said the bike/ped committee could provide recommendations.
Mr. Cota asked if it is known whether the fire truck can turn around with the new curb cut if
that were the only access/egress. If it can’t, the answer is clear. Ms. Keene said if it is a radius
issue, some parking spaces could be eliminated. The question is what is reasonable. She
suggested possibly having a technical review to have an engineer look at it.
Mr. Wilking said he is of two minds. He felt 99 Swift has inadequate access today. He also felt
that if it weren’t 99 Swift doing this project, Mr. Marshall would be saying ‘we need an access.’
Because housing is something the city needs, he was OK with both entrances.
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1 DECEMBER 2020
PAGE 3
Mr. Behr agreed with Mr. Wilking, but he felt that in the long term if the single curb cut works
for the Fire Department, he favored one access and having the other access for bikers and
pedestrians. Mr. Sullivan and Ms. Portman agreed with Mr. Behr. Ms. Philibert agreed with
both Mr. Wilking and Mr. Behr. Mr. Langan felt the one way is an improvement, and said the
driveway needs attention but isn’t sure closing the entrance is the help it needs.
Ms. Rees emphasized the need for better connectivity regardless of what this project decides.
Regarding the trees to be lost or saved, Mr. Marshall said that Justin had looked at the oak tree
and felt it would be unacceptable to jog around it. Mr. Cota felt the Board shouldn’t make it
unsafe or burdensome for Public Works.
Regarding landscaping, Mr. Marshall said what prevents them from reaching the required
amount is a decision about the wood fence and the inclusion of perennials in the countable
budget. He also asked for some credit for existing trees to be saved and for some of the cost
for the patio area. Mr. Theriault said the pavers in the patio area will cost $4,400, and the
retaining wall $3,600. That would get them to $34,000 without credit for existing trees.
Ms. Keene said that their landscaping budget is deficient by $5,365 counting just trees and
shrubs. There could be some value given for the pavers and retaining wall as well as for existing
trees to be retained.
Mr. Behr said he was sorry to lose the oak tree, but understood the Public Works concern. He
didn’t like the idea of using the hardscape as landscaping budget. He noted that the site is
pretty well landscaped, but suggested some possible landscaping on the west side of the site to
replace some of the trees to be removed.
Mr. Wilking said he hesitates to over‐landscape with apartments which could wind up being
dark if trees block the light. He was OK with counting the hardscaping of the patio.
Mr. Duncan said they are leaving the existing cedars on the west side of the site and added
some trees there.
Ms. Keene asked about credit for perennials; they’re difficult to account for but do have some
value. Mr. Duncan said they could put tags in the ground to identify the plantings. He noted
that they have pollinator value and should be counted. Ms. Hall said the labels may not be
there in 3 years when she has to attest to them in order to release the bond. Mr. Duncan said
there could be a condition to replace the perennials that don’t survive. Mr. Sullivan noted that
the Board did credit pollinators at the Airport project. Ms. Knauf cited the importance of
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1 DECEMBER 2020
PAGE 4
pollinators, which is a number one goal for landscapers. They provide great variety of texture
and color. She noted that all of what is proposed on the north side are pollinators, and all of
them have blooms. On the south side, most of the perennials are native and pollinators.
Members felt there was enough to cover the landscaping budget.
Regarding stormwater, Mr. Marshall said they have created a way to address all the concerns
and will comply with all the comments from the stormwater utility.
Public comment was then solicited. There was no public comment.
Mr. Cota said the Board still needs to make a decision regarding the 2 access points, so they
need to continue the application to hear from the Fire Chief. Mr. Marshall said he would
provide options for the Chief to review.
Mr. Cota then moved to continue SD‐20‐37 until 15 December 2020. Ms. Philibert seconded.
Motion passed unanimously via a rollcall vote.
5. Continued preliminary and final plat application #SD‐20‐35 of TPG Architecture to
amend a previously approved plan for a 101,838 sf shopping center in two (2)
buildings. The amendment consists of constructing a detached 3,354 sf financial
institution with remote drive‐up ATM and canopy, 570 Shelburne Road.
This application was withdrawn.
6. Minutes of 17 November 2020:
The minutes were not available for action.
7. Other Business:
No other business was presented.
These minutes were approved by the Board on ____.