Loading...
The URL can be used to link to this page
Your browser does not support the video tag.
Home
My WebLink
About
Minutes - Development Review Board - 03/20/2018
DEVELOPMENT REVIEW BOARD 20 MARCH 2018 The South Burlington Development Review Board held a regular meeting on Tuesday, 20 March 2018, at 7:00 p.m. in the Conference Room, City Hall, 575 Dorset Street. MEMBERS PRESENT: B. Miller, Chair; M. Cota, J Smith, J. Wilking, M. Behr (by phone), B. Sullivan ALSO PRESENT: R. Belair, Administrative Officer; M. Keene, Development Planner; H. Tremblay, P. Washburn, L. Putnam, J. Santoro 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: No changes were made to the Agenda. 3. Comments and questions from the public not related to the Agenda: No issues were raised. 4. Announcements: Ms. Keene advised that there would be a few items under Other Business. 5. Continued Preliminary & Final Plat Application #SD-18-06 of Milot Larkin Partnership, LLP, to amend a planned unit development consisting of 210 residential units, a 60-unit multi-family building with 17,976 sq. ft. commercial space, a 20,000 sq. ft. movie theater building (1000 seats), a 22,500 sq. ft. restaurant/medical office, a 3,500 sq. ft. restaurant with drive-through services, and a bank with drive-through service. The amendment consists of constructing a 4-story, 47-unit residential building, 115 Fayette Road: Mr. Belair advised that the applicant had asked for the item to be continued to 3 April. Mr. Cota moved to continue SD-18-06 to 3 April 2018. Ms. Smith seconded. Motion passed 6 0. 6. Conditional Use Application #CU-18-02 of Paul J. Washburn to construct a 14’x17’ detached accessory structure to be used as a 186 sq. ft. accessory residential unit, 30 Myers Court: Mr. Washburn said this will be a ground bound “tiny house” hooked up to sewer, water and utilities. It will use electric heat. It will have a pitched roof. Mr. Washburn’s girlfriend will be living there. No issues were raised. Mr. Cota moved to close CU-18-02. Mr. Wilking seconded. Motion passed 6-0. 7. Design Review Application #DR-18-01 of Mitchell Schwartz to amend a previously approved Master Signage Permit (MSP). The amendment consists of: 1) adding a free-standing sign to the MSP, and 2) changing the allowable sign colors to gold, white, green and black, 372 Dorset Street: Ms. Putnam said they are temporarily relocating the business in order to renovate at 325 Dorset St. They will take their existing sign and move it to the temporary location at 372 Dorset St. She showed a photo of the sign. No issues were raised. Mr. Cota moved to close DR-18-01. Ms. Smith seconded. Motion passed 6-0. 8. Design Review Application #DR-18-02 of Vermont Pool and Bar to amend a previously approved Master Signage Permit (MSP). The amendment consists of changing the allowable sign colors to black and white, 35 San Remo Drive: Mr. Santoro said they will be putting up a new free-standing sign. He showed a picture of the proposed sign. No issues were raised. Mr. Cota moved to close DR-18-02. Mr. Wilking seconded. Motion passed 6-0. 9. Design Review Application #DR-18-03 of Heather Tremblay to amend a previously approved Master Signage Permit (MSP). The amendment consists of allowing the colors orange and purple to be located on the freestanding signs at the main entrances to the property, 155 Dorset Street: Ms. Tremblay noted that orange and purple are currently not allowed on the 2 existing freestanding signs. They would like to add those colors. No issues were raised. Mr. Cota moved to close DR-18-03. Ms. Smith seconded. Motion passed unanimously. 10. Minutes of Joint Meeting of 30 January 2018: Mr. Miller noted that on the bottom of p.1, the 4th letter from the end should be an added “u.” Mr. Cota moved to approve the Minutes of the Joint Meeting of 30 January 2018 with the noted addition. Mr. Wilking seconded. Motion passed 6-0. 11. Other Business: a. Technical Review: Ms. Keene reviewed the nature and use of technical review. She noted it is granted by State Statute and local regulations. The City is allowed to bill the applicant for this review. Technical review can be invoked by the DRB. Staff can advise an applicant that a technical review is likely so that it can be done prior to the application being heard by the DRB. Technical review is invoked to verify compliance with the LDRs on such issues as: a. Wetlands b. Traffic c. Architectural d. Noise e. Impacts over time f. Wildlife g. Height/shadows/views h. Legal review (affordability criteria, TDRs, street acceptance) i. Air quality j. Design and layout to comply with Form Based Code or SEQ criteria k. Anything the DRB would like more expertise on that staff cannot provide Mr. Wilking said his issue is that he doesn’t know what a technical review will cost before the DRB decides to invoke it. Mr. Belair said that typically they get an estimate, and the applicant can come back to the DRB if they feel the cost is too high. b. Non-compliant Site Conditions: Ms. Keene noted that if the city has ever issued a Certificate of Occupancy (CO), this sanctions the violation and makes the site compliant. She added that most city properties have had a CO in the past. Mr. Belair said that if there were to be a new regulation which puts some part of the property in violation, the city could then ask an applicant to remedy that situation. Mr. Sullivan cautioned staff to have the City Attorney look into “vested rights” issues. As there was no further business to come before the Board, the meeting was adjourned by common consent at 7:42 p.m. These minutes were approved by the Board on April 3, 2018. Published by ClerkBase ©2019 by Clerkbase. No Claim to Original Government Works. #CU‐18‐02 - 1 - CITY OF SOUTH BURLINGTON DEPARTMENT OF PLANNING AND ZONING PAUL JAMES WASHBURN – 30 MYERS COURT CONDITIONAL USE APPLICATION #CU‐18‐02 FINDINGS OF FACT AND DECISION Conditional use application #CU‐18‐02 of Paul J. Washburn to construct a 14’ X 17’ detached accessory structure to be used as a 186 sq. ft. accessory residential unit, 30 Myers Court. The Development Review Board held a public hearing on March 20, 2018. The applicant represented himself. Based on the plans and materials contained in the document file for this application, the Board finds, concludes, and decides the following: FINDINGS OF FACT 1. Paul Washburn, hereinafter referred to as the applicant, is seeking conditional use approval to construct a 14’ x 17’ detached accessory structure to be used as an accessory residential unit, 30 Myers Court. 2. The owner of record of the subject property is Paul James Washburn. 3. The subject property is located in the Residential 4 Zoning District. 4. The application was received on February 12, 2018. 5. The plan set submitted consists of a four (4) page set of plans, page one (1) entitled “30 Myers Court Current State”, prepared by the applicant and undated. 6. Structures on the property currently include a single family home and a storage shed. The current structures conform with the dimensional standards of the district. 7. The applicant has received approval for construction of an attached garage, extending the existing driveway and paving a parking area for three additional spaces behind the existing principal dwelling unit (#ZP‐18‐030). A. ZONING DISTRICT & DIMENSIONAL REQUIREMENTS: R4 Zoning District Required Existing Proposed Min. Lot Size 9,500 SF 9,761 SF 9,761 SF Max. Building Coverage 20 % 8.6% 17.4% Max. Overall Coverage 40 % 14.5% 36.1% Min. Front Setback 20 ft. 35 ft. 335 ft. Min. Side Setback, Principal Structure 10 ft. 21 ft. 13 ft. #CU‐18‐02 - 2 - Min. Rear Setback, Principal Structure 30 ft. > 30 ft. > 30 ft. Min. Setback, Accessory 5 ft. side & rear 5 ft. side & rear 18 ft. side, 7 ft. rear Max. Building Height, Principal (pitched) 28 ft. 23 ft. 23 ft. Max. Building Height, Accessory 15 ft. N/A 12.75 ft √ Zoning Compliance 4. The project meets the dimensional requirements. B. ACCESSORY RESIDENTIAL UNITS One (1) accessory residential unit constructed within or attached to a primary single‐family dwelling or within an existing, permitted accessory structure shall be a permitted single family use, in accordance with the following criteria: (1) Floor space of the accessory residential unit shall not exceed thirty percent (30%) of the total habitable area of the single‐family dwelling unit. The habitable area of the existing dwelling unit is 634 square feet. The proposed habitable area of the accessory residential unit is 186 square feet, or 29.3% of the habitable area of the principal dwelling unit. The Board finds this criterion met. (2) The principal dwelling shall be owner‐occupied. The Board finds this criterion met. (3) The accessory dwelling unit shall be an efficiency or one‐bedroom unit. The accessory dwelling unit shall be an efficiency. The Board finds this criterion met (4) Adequate wastewater capacity is available to service the accessory unit, as demonstrated by issuance of a Wastewater Allocation or on‐site wastewater permit pursuant to the South Burlington Ordinance Regulating the use of Public and Private Sanitary Sewerage and Stormwater Systems. The Board finds the applicant must submit wastewater allocation prior to issuance of a zoning permit. (5) Two (2) additional off‐street parking spaces shall be provided on the same lot, either in a garage or in a driveway, and not in any areas required to meet coverage limitations, or any front yard area other than a driveway, required by these Regulations. The board finds the two additional parking spaces approved as part of zoning permit #ZP‐18‐030 meet this criterion. (6) If occupancy of the unit is to be restricted in the deed of the single‐family home to a disabled person, no additional off‐street parking is required. This criterion is not applicable. (7) A zoning permit shall be required for each accessory residential unit. #CU‐18‐02 - 3 - The Board finds the applicant must obtain a zoning permit prior to beginning construction. C. CONDITIONAL USE CRITERIA Pursuant to Section 3.10E of the South Burlington Land Development Regulations (Accessory Structures and Uses), the proposed structure shall be reviewed as a conditional use and shall meet the following standards of Section 14.10(E): 14.10(E) General Review Standards. The Development Review Board shall review the proposed conditional use for compliance with all applicable standards as contained in these regulations. The proposed conditional use shall not result in an undue adverse effect on any of the following: (1) The capacity of existing or planned community facilities. 5. This project will have no adverse effect upon community facilities. The Board finds this criterion met. (2) The character of the area affected, as defined by the purpose or purposes of the zoning district within which the project is located, and specifically stated policies and standards of the municipal plan. 6. The Board finds that the proposed project consistent with the stated purpose of the Residential 4 District, which is “to encourage residential use at moderate densities that are compatible with existing neighborhoods and undeveloped land adjacent to those neighborhoods.” The Board finds this criterion met. (3) Traffic on roads and highways in the vicinity. 7. This project will have no adverse effect on traffic on roads and highways in the vicinity. The Board finds this criterion met. (4) Bylaws and ordinances then in effect. 8. The Board finds this criterion met. (5) Utilization of renewable energy resources. 9. This project will not affect renewable energy resources. The Board finds this criterion met. DECISION The South Burlington Development Review Board hereby approves Conditional Use application #CU‐18‐02 of Paul Washburn, subject to the following stipulations: #CU‐18‐02 - 4 - 1. All previous approvals and stipulations shall remain in full effect except as amended herein. 2. This project shall be completed as shown on the plan submitted by the applicant and on file in the South Burlington Department of Planning and Zoning. 3. The applicant shall obtain Wastewater allocation or on‐site wastewater permit prior to zoning permit approval. 4. The applicant shall obtain a zoning permit within six (6) months pursuant to Section 17.04 of the Land Development Regulations or this approval is null and void. 5. Any change to the site plan shall require approval by the South Burlington Development Review Board or the Administrative Officer. Mark Behr Yea Nay Abstain Not Present Matt Cota Yea Nay Abstain Not Present Frank Kochman Yea Nay Abstain Not Present Bill Miller Yea Nay Abstain Not Present Jennifer Smith Yea Nay Abstain Not Present Brian Sullivan Yea Nay Abstain Not Present John Wilking Yea Nay Abstain Not Present Motion carried by a vote of _ – _ – _ Signed this ____ day of __________________ 2018, by _____________________________________ Bill Miller, Chair Please note: An appeal of this decision may be taken by filing, within 30 days of the date of this decision, a notice of appeal and the required fee by certified mail to the Superior Court, Environmental Division. See V.R.E.C.P. 5(b). A copy of the notice of appeal must also be mailed to the City of South Burlington Planning and Zoning Department at 575 Dorset Street, South Burlington, VT 05403. See V.R.E.C.P. 5(b) (4)(A). Please contact the Environmental Division at 802‐828‐1660 or http://vermontjudiciary.org/GTC/environmental/default.aspx for more information on filing requirements, deadlines, fees and mailing address. The applicant or permittee retains the obligation to identify, apply for, and obtain relevant state permits for this project. Call 802.477.2241 to speak with the regional Permit Specialist. #DR‐18‐01 1 CITY OF SOUTH BURLINGTON DEPARTMENT OF PLANNING AND ZONING MITCHELL SCHWARTZ – 372 DORSET STREET MASTER SIGNAGE PLAN #DR‐18‐01 FINDINGS OF FACT AND DECISION Design review application #DR‐18‐01 of Mitchell Schwartz to revise a Master Signage Permit for a new free‐standing sign, 372 Dorset Street. The Development Review Board held a public hearing on March 20, 2018. The applicant was represented by ________. Based on the plans and materials contained in the document file for this application, the Development Review Board finds, concludes, and decides the following: FINDINGS OF FACT 1. The applicant, Mitchell Schwartz, seeks to amend a previously approved Master Signage Permit (MSP) #DR‐04‐10 2. The amendment consists of: 1) adding a free‐standing sign to the MSP, and 2) changing the allowable sign colors to gold, white, green and black. 3. The owners of record of the subject property are Sisters and Brothers Investment Group, LLP. 4. The application was received on February 14, 2018. 5. The applicant submitted a photograph of the proposed signage which consists of one new free‐ standing sign with the words “Dorset Street Dermatology Medical Spa Skin Care Shop 660‐8808”. There is not currently a freestanding sign on the property. 6. The property lies within the Dorset Street/City Center Sign District SIGN ORDINANCE Section 6: Dorset Street/City Center Sign District of the South Burlington Sign Ordinance reads in part that the Development Review Board must consider the following standards: (1) Consistent Design: the design of a sign shall consider and be compatible and harmonious with the design of buildings on the property and nearby. The design of all signs on a property shall promote consistency in terms of color, graphic style, lighting, location, material and proportions. (2) Promote City Center Goals: signs shall be designed and located in a manner which reinforces and respects the overall stated goals of the sign district and City Center Plan, including a high aesthetic quality and pedestrian orientation. #DR‐18‐01 2 (3) Color and Texture: the color and texture of a sign shall be compatible and harmonious with buildings on the property and nearby. The use of a maximum of three (3) predominant colors is encouraged to provide consistent foreground, text and background color schemes. (4) Materials Used: signs shall be designed and constructed of high‐quality materials complimentary to the materials used in the buildings to which the signs are related. The proposed sign plan uses four (4) colors (gold, white, green and black), provides texture and interest through the use of carving and insets, and the materials are of high quality, consisting of sealed wood and paint. There are no other signs proposed on the property. The sign is pedestrian scale. The Board finds these criterion have been met. Section 8(d) reads in part that the board must consider the following: (1) The initial application for a Master Signage Permit shall establish a consistent set of parameters for the shapes, materials, foreground and background color schemes, typefaces, sizes, installations and sign types to be utilized for a property and shall include color illustrations thereof. (2) Applicants are strongly encouraged to specify parameters that will lead over time to creating a strong consistency of shape, foreground and background color scheme, typeface, size, and installation in order to ensure that all signage on a property is in accordance with the goals of the Dorset Street/City Center Sign District. (3) All Master Signage Permit applications shall specify how one or more of these graphic elements will be used to relate all of the signs to each other visually. (4) Applicants may request a review and approval of a range of potential sizes for individual signs, so that an application for an individual sign of approved materials, color and design that is within an approved size range will require only approval of the Code Officer. The proposed sign plan proposes one free‐standing sign on the site and therefore consistency between signage and over time is not an issue. No wall signs are proposed as part of the signage plan. Consistency within the signage plan is maintained by repeating the same colors in different locations on the sign and through the use of one font type. The applicant has requested approval of only one size sign in the proposed plan. The Board finds these criterion have been met. Section 9(h) addresses standards specifically for free‐standing signs within the Dorset Street/City Center Sign District: (h) Dorset Street/City Center Sign District. Free‐standing signs along Dorset Street are to be located in a sign corridor that begins adjacent to the road Right of Way and runs sixteen (16) feet from the edge of the Right of Way toward the building face. In those instances where dimensions do not provide for a two (2) foot setback from the Right of Way before a sign support post can be located, it is permitted to erect a centered single pole mounted sign of which the road side edge of the sign is directly outside the R.O.W. line. Free‐standing signs in the Dorset Street/City Center District may not exceed thirty‐two #DR‐18‐01 3 (32) square feet in overall dimensions and may be no higher than twelve (12) feet, measured from the average finished grade at the base of the sign to the highest point of any part of the sign structure. The applicant has not finalized where they will locate the sign. They must do this as part of their individual sign permit application, but it is not required for MSP amendment. The applicant has indicated they will locate the sign between 2 and 16 feet from the ROW and expects to locate it north of the building between the driveway and the building. The dimensions of the sign are 8 feet wide by 4 feet high, and it is 6 feet from the ground to the top of the sign. The Board finds this criterion met. Section 21(e) pertains to lighting: (e) In the Dorset Street/City Center Sign District, internally illuminated signs shall utilize opaque backgrounds and translucent letters, logos and/or graphics, so as to insure that the lettering, logos and/or graphics are illuminated rather than the background. Translucent backgrounds utilizing dark colors may be used with white, clear or other light translucent letters, logos and/or graphics, provided the Design Review Committee determines that the effect will be consistent with the intent of this provision. The applicant has indicated that the sign will not be illuminated, therefore is not subject to this standard. DECISION Motion by ___, seconded by ___, to approve sign design review application #DR‐18‐01 of Mitchell Schwartz subject to the following conditions: 1. All previous approvals and stipulations which are not changed by this decision, will remain in full effect. 2. The sign colors permitted are gold, white, green and black. 3. This project must be completed as shown on the plans submitted by the applicant, and on file in the South Burlington Department of Planning and Zoning. 4. The applicant shall obtain sign permits consistent with the master sign approval and specific standards of the Sign Ordinance in effect at the time of application from the Code Officer prior to any changes to signs on the property. 5. Any change to the approved plan shall require approval by the South Burlington Development Review Board or the Administrative Officer. 6. Pursuant to Section 20 of the Sign Ordinance, all signs shall be of substantial and sturdy construction, kept in good repair, and painted or cleaned as necessary to maintain a clean, safe, and orderly appearance. Mark Behr Yea Nay Abstain Not Present #DR‐18‐01 4 Matt Cota Yea Nay Abstain Not Present Frank Kochman Yea Nay Abstain Not present Bill Miller Yea Nay Abstain Not Present Jennifer Smith Yea Nay Abstain Not Present Brian Sullivan Yea Nay Abstain Not Present John Wilking Yea Nay Abstain Not Present Motion carried by a vote of _– _ – _. Signed this ____ day of __________________ 2018 by _____________________________________ Bill Miller, Chair Please note: An appeal of this decision may be taken by filing, within 30 days of the date of this decision, a notice of appeal and the required fee by certified mail to the Superior Court, Environmental Division. See V.R.E.C.P. 5(b). A copy of the notice of appeal must also be mailed to the City of South Burlington Planning and Zoning Department at 575 Dorset Street, South Burlington, VT 05403. See V.R.E.C.P. 5(b) (4)(A). Please contact the Environmental Division at 802‐828‐1660 or http://vermontjudiciary.org/GTC/environmental/default.aspx for more information on filing requirements, deadlines, fees and mailing address. The applicant or permittee retains the obligation to identify, apply for, and obtain relevant state permits for this project. Call 802.477.2241 to speak with the regional Permit Specialist. #DR‐18‐02 1 CITY OF SOUTH BURLINGTON DEPARTMENT OF PLANNING AND ZONING VERMONT POOL AND BAR – 35 SAN REMO DRIVE MASTER SIGNAGE PERMIT #DR‐18‐02 FINDINGS OF FACT AND DECISION Design review application #DR‐18‐02 of Vermont Pool and Bar to revise a Master Signage Permit for a new free‐standing sign and wall sign, 35 San Remo Drive. The Development Review Board held a public hearing on March 20, 2018. The applicant was represented by Jeff Santoro. Based on the plans and materials contained in the document file for this application, the Development Review Board finds, concludes, and decides the following: FINDINGS OF FACT 1. The applicant, Vermont Pool and Bar, seeks to amend a previously approved Master Signage Permit (MSP) #DR‐12‐02. 2. The amendment consists of changing the allowable sign colors to black and white. 3. The owner of record of the subject property is Dawson Dorset Street Properties. 4. The application was received on February 23, 2018. 5. The applicant submitted a sketch of the proposed signage which consists of one (1) new free‐ standing sign with the words “Vermont Pool & Bar” and a logo, and one (1) new wall sign with the same words and logo. The free‐standing sign is proposed to be located in the same location as the existing free‐standing sign. 6. The property lies within the Dorset Street/City Center Sign District SIGN ORDINANCE Section 6: Dorset Street/City Center Sign District of the South Burlington Sign Ordinance reads in part that the Development Review Board must consider the following standards: (1) Consistent Design: the design of a sign shall consider and be compatible and harmonious with the design of buildings on the property and nearby. The design of all signs on a property shall promote consistency in terms of color, graphic style, lighting, location, material and proportions. (2) Promote City Center Goals: signs shall be designed and located in a manner which reinforces and respects the overall stated goals of the sign district and City Center Plan, including a high aesthetic quality and pedestrian orientation. #DR‐18‐02 2 (3) Color and Texture: the color and texture of a sign shall be compatible and harmonious with buildings on the property and nearby. The use of a maximum of three (3) predominant colors is encouraged to provide consistent foreground, text and background color schemes. (4) Materials Used: signs shall be designed and constructed of high‐quality materials complimentary to the materials used in the buildings to which the signs are related. The proposed sign plan promotes consistency through the use of just two (2) colors (white and black). The proposed free‐standing sign will be constructed of Aluminum Dibond Board and the proposed wall sign will be constructed of vinyl on an aluminum backing. The sign is pedestrian scale. The Board finds these criterion have been met. Section 8(d) reads in part that the board must consider the following: (1) The initial application for a Master Signage Permit shall establish a consistent set of parameters for the shapes, materials, foreground and background color schemes, typefaces, sizes, installations and sign types to be utilized for a property and shall include color illustrations thereof. (2) Applicants are strongly encouraged to specify parameters that will lead over time to creating a strong consistency of shape, foreground and background color scheme, typeface, size, and installation in order to ensure that all signage on a property is in accordance with the goals of the Dorset Street/City Center Sign District. (3) All Master Signage Permit applications shall specify how one or more of these graphic elements will be used to relate all of the signs to each other visually. (4) Applicants may request a review and approval of a range of potential sizes for individual signs, so that an application for an individual sign of approved materials, color and design that is within an approved size range will require only approval of the Code Officer. The proposed sign plan proposes one free‐standing sign on the site and therefore consistency between signage and over time is not an issue. The proposed wall sign uses matching design parameters. Consistency within the signage plan is maintained by repeating the same colors, font and graphic in different locations. The applicant has requested approval of one specific free‐standing and one specific wall mounted size sign in the proposed plan. The Board finds these criterion have been met. Section 9(h) addresses standards specifically for free‐standing signs within the Dorset Street/City Center Sign District: (h) Dorset Street/City Center Sign District. Free‐standing signs along Dorset Street are to be located in a sign corridor that begins adjacent to the road Right of Way and runs sixteen (16) feet from the edge of the Right of Way toward the building face. In those instances where dimensions do not provide for a two (2) foot setback from the Right of Way before a sign support post can be located, it is permitted to erect a centered single pole mounted sign of which the road side edge of the sign is directly outside the R.O.W. line. Free‐standing signs in the Dorset Street/City Center District may not exceed thirty‐two #DR‐18‐02 3 (32) square feet in overall dimensions and may be no higher than twelve (12) feet, measured from the average finished grade at the base of the sign to the highest point of any part of the sign structure. The applicant has submitted a location plan showing the free‐standing sign will be located between two and sixteen feet from the edge of the Right of Way. The applicant is proposing to reuse the existing sign base which is less than twelve (12) feet high. The Board considers this criterion met. Section 21(e) pertains to lighting: (e) In the Dorset Street/City Center Sign District, internally illuminated signs shall utilize opaque backgrounds and translucent letters, logos and/or graphics, so as to insure that the lettering, logos and/or graphics are illuminated rather than the background. Translucent backgrounds utilizing dark colors may be used with white, clear or other light translucent letters, logos and/or graphics, provided the Design Review Committee determines that the effect will be consistent with the intent of this provision. The applicant has indicated that the sign is proposed to be externally illuminated using existing cobra head lights, therefore is not subject to this standard. They have also indicated that they plan to illuminate the proposed wall mounted sign using the same cobra head fixtures as are used on the existing freestanding sign. DECISION Motion by ___, seconded by ___, to approve sign design review application #DR‐18‐02 of Vermont Pool and Bar subject to the following conditions: 1. All previous approvals and stipulations which are not changed by this decision, will remain in full effect. 2. The sign colors permitted are white and black. 3. This project must be completed as shown on the plans submitted by the applicant, and on file in the South Burlington Department of Planning and Zoning. 4. The applicant shall obtain sign permits consistent with the master sign approval and specific standards of the Sign Ordinance in effect at the time of application from the Code Officer prior to any changes to signs on the property. 5. Any change to the approved plan shall require approval by the South Burlington Development Review Board or the Administrative Officer. 6. Pursuant to Section 20 of the Sign Ordinance, all signs shall be of substantial and sturdy construction, kept in good repair, and painted or cleaned as necessary to maintain a clean, safe, and orderly appearance. #DR‐18‐02 4 Mark Behr Yea Nay Abstain Not Present Matt Cota Yea Nay Abstain Not Present Frank Kochman Yea Nay Abstain Not present Bill Miller Yea Nay Abstain Not Present Brian Sullivan Yea Nay Abstain Not Present Jennifer Smith Yea Nay Abstain Not Present John Wilking Yea Nay Abstain Not Present Motion carried by a vote of _– _ – _. Signed this ____ day of __________________ 2018 by _____________________________________ Bill Miller, Chair Please note: An appeal of this decision may be taken by filing, within 30 days of the date of this decision, a notice of appeal and the required fee by certified mail to the Superior Court, Environmental Division. See V.R.E.C.P. 5(b). A copy of the notice of appeal must also be mailed to the City of South Burlington Planning and Zoning Department at 575 Dorset Street, South Burlington, VT 05403. See V.R.E.C.P. 5(b) (4)(A). Please contact the Environmental Division at 802‐828‐1660 or http://vermontjudiciary.org/GTC/environmental/default.aspx for more information on filing requirements, deadlines, fees and mailing address. The applicant or permittee retains the obligation to identify, apply for, and obtain relevant state permits for this project. Call 802.477.2241 to speak with the regional Permit Specialist. #DR‐18‐03 1 CITY OF SOUTH BURLINGTON DEPARTMENT OF PLANNING AND ZONING HEATHER TREMBLAY – 155 DORSET STREET MASTER SIGNAGE PERMIT #DR‐18‐03 FINDINGS OF FACT AND DECISION Design review application #DR‐18‐03 of Heather Tremblay to revise a Master Signage Permit for two existing free‐standing signs, 155 Dorset Street. The Development Review Board held a public hearing on March 20, 2018. The applicant represented herself. Based on the plans and materials contained in the document file for this application, the Development Review Board finds, concludes, and decides the following: FINDINGS OF FACT 1. The applicant, Heather Tremblay, seeks to amend a previously approved Master Signage Permit (MSP) #DR‐14‐02. 2. The amendment consists of allowing the colors orange and purple to be located on the freestanding signs at the main entrances to the property. 3. The owner of record of the subject property is LBCMT 2007‐C3 Dorset Street, LLC. 4. The application was received on February 23, 2018. 5. The applicant submitted a drawing of the proposed signage which consists of two externally lit tenant panel cabinets to be retrofit into the two existing pylon sign support structures. 6. The property lies within the Dorset Street/City Center Sign District SIGN ORDINANCE Section 6: Dorset Street/City Center Sign District of the South Burlington Sign Ordinance reads in part that the Development Review Board must consider the following standards: (1) Consistent Design: the design of a sign shall consider and be compatible and harmonious with the design of buildings on the property and nearby. The design of all signs on a property shall promote consistency in terms of color, graphic style, lighting, location, material and proportions. (2) Promote City Center Goals: signs shall be designed and located in a manner which reinforces and respects the overall stated goals of the sign district and City Center Plan, including a high aesthetic quality and pedestrian orientation. #DR‐18‐03 2 (3) Color and Texture: the color and texture of a sign shall be compatible and harmonious with buildings on the property and nearby. The use of a maximum of three (3) predominant colors is encouraged to provide consistent foreground, text and background color schemes. (4) Materials Used: signs shall be designed and constructed of high‐quality materials complimentary to the materials used in the buildings to which the signs are related. The proposed sign plan promotes consistency through the use of the same typefaces and colors as are used on the existing approved wall signs. The proposed sign uses the existing sign support structure and the same general sign scheme which was previously found by the DRB to promote the goals of City Center. The materials are proposed to be sign foam, dibond aluminum and acrylic. The Board finds these criterion have been met. Section 8(d) reads in part that the board must consider the following: (1) The initial application for a Master Signage Permit shall establish a consistent set of parameters for the shapes, materials, foreground and background color schemes, typefaces, sizes, installations and sign types to be utilized for a property and shall include color illustrations thereof. (2) Applicants are strongly encouraged to specify parameters that will lead over time to creating a strong consistency of shape, foreground and background color scheme, typeface, size, and installation in order to ensure that all signage on a property is in accordance with the goals of the Dorset Street/City Center Sign District. (3) All Master Signage Permit applications shall specify how one or more of these graphic elements will be used to relate all of the signs to each other visually. (4) Applicants may request a review and approval of a range of potential sizes for individual signs, so that an application for an individual sign of approved materials, color and design that is within an approved size range will require only approval of the Code Officer. The applicant is proposing to reconfigure the north entrance sign structure to be two faced, from single faced. Consistency within the signage plan is maintained by repeating the same graphics on the free‐ standing sign as on the approved wall signs. The applicant is proposing to repeat the same sign at both main entrances to the property therefore consistency between signage and over time is not an issue. The applicant has requested approval of one specific free‐standing size sign in the proposed plan. The Board finds these criterion have been met. Section 9(h) addresses standards specifically for free‐standing signs within the Dorset Street/City Center Sign District: (h) Dorset Street/City Center Sign District. Free‐standing signs along Dorset Street are to be located in a sign corridor that begins adjacent to the road Right of Way and runs sixteen (16) feet from the edge of the Right of Way toward the building face. In those instances where dimensions do not provide for #DR‐18‐03 3 a two (2) foot setback from the Right of Way before a sign support post can be located, it is permitted to erect a centered single pole mounted sign of which the road side edge of the sign is directly outside the R.O.W. line. Free‐standing signs in the Dorset Street/City Center District may not exceed thirty‐two (32) square feet in overall dimensions and may be no higher than twelve (12) feet, measured from the average finished grade at the base of the sign to the highest point of any part of the sign structure. The applicant has submitted a location plan showing the free‐standing signs are located between two and sixteen feet from the edge of the Right of Way. The applicant is proposing to reuse the existing sign base which is less than twelve (12) feet high. The Board considers this criterion met. Section 21(e) pertains to lighting: (e) In the Dorset Street/City Center Sign District, internally illuminated signs shall utilize opaque backgrounds and translucent letters, logos and/or graphics, so as to insure that the lettering, logos and/or graphics are illuminated rather than the background. Translucent backgrounds utilizing dark colors may be used with white, clear or other light translucent letters, logos and/or graphics, provided the Design Review Committee determines that the effect will be consistent with the intent of this provision. The applicant has indicated that the sign is proposed to be externally illuminated using a new LED light fixture, therefore is not subject to this standard. DECISION Motion by ___, seconded by ___, to approve sign design review application #DR‐18‐03 of Heather Tremblay subject to the following conditions: 1. All previous approvals and stipulations which are not changed by this decision, will remain in full effect. 2. The freestanding sign colors permitted under application #DR‐05‐07 are red, white, blue and green; with accent colors for logos and graphics limited to yellow and black. Orange and purple were approved under application #DR‐14‐02 for wall sign colors. Orange and purple are hereby added to the list of approved sign colors for freestanding sign colors as well. 3. This project must be completed as shown on the plans submitted by the applicant, and on file in the South Burlington Department of Planning and Zoning. 4. The applicant shall obtain sign permits consistent with the master sign approval and specific standards of the Sign Ordinance in effect at the time of application from the Code Officer prior to any changes to signs on the property. 5. Any change to the approved plan shall require approval by the South Burlington Development Review Board or the Administrative Officer. #DR‐18‐03 4 6. Pursuant to Section 20 of the Sign Ordinance, all signs shall be of substantial and sturdy construction, kept in good repair, and painted or cleaned as necessary to maintain a clean, safe, and orderly appearance. Mark Behr Yea Nay Abstain Not Present Matt Cota Yea Nay Abstain Not Present Frank Kochman Yea Nay Abstain Not present Bill Miller Yea Nay Abstain Not Present Jennifer Smith Yea Nay Abstain Not Present Brian Sullivan Yea Nay Abstain Not Present John Wilking Yea Nay Abstain Not Present Motion carried by a vote of _– _ – _. Signed this ____ day of __________________ 2018, by _____________________________________ Bill Miller, Chair Please note: An appeal of this decision may be taken by filing, within 30 days of the date of this decision, a notice of appeal and the required fee by certified mail to the Superior Court, Environmental Division. See V.R.E.C.P. 5(b). A copy of the notice of appeal must also be mailed to the City of South Burlington Planning and Zoning Department at 575 Dorset Street, South Burlington, VT 05403. See V.R.E.C.P. 5(b) (4)(A). Please contact the Environmental Division at 802‐828‐1660 or http://vermontjudiciary.org/GTC/environmental/default.aspx for more information on filing requirements, deadlines, fees and mailing address. The applicant or permittee retains the obligation to identify, apply for, and obtain relevant state permits for this project. Call 802.477.2241 to speak with the regional Permit Specialist. SOUTH BURLINGTON PLANNING COMMISSION SOUTH BURLINGTON DEVELOPMENT REVIEW BOARD JOINT MEETING MINUTES 30 JANUARY 2018 1 The South Burlington Planning Commission and Development Review Board held a joint meeting on Tuesday, 30 January 2018, at 7:00 p.m., in the Conference Room, City Hall, 575 Dorset Street. MEMBERS PRESENT: Planning Commission: J. Louisos, Chair; T. Riehle, D. Macdonald, M. Ostby, M. Mittag; Development Review Board: B. Miller, Chair; J. Smith, J. Wilking, F. Kochman, M. Behr, M. Cota ALSO PRESENT: P. Conner, Director of Planning & Zoning; R. Belair, Administrative Officer; M. Keene, Development Review Planner; T. Barritt, S. Dopp 1. Directions on emergency evacuation procedures from conference room: Ms. Louisos provided directions on evacuation of the conference room should an emergency occur. 2. Additions, deletions or changes in order of agenda items: No changes were made to the Agenda. 3. Open to the public for items not related to the Agenda: No issues were raised. 4. Commissioner/Board member announcements and staff report: No announcements or reports were presented. 5. Planning Commission Project Updates / Discussion of DRB topics: Ms. Louisos said the Commission has been prioritizing a large list of potential projects including the amount of time estimated to complete the projects. She directed attention to a spreadsheet outlining these projects and noted that the highlighted projects are the ones that the Commission is currently addressing. She also noted a group of amendments that have already been adopted. Ms. Louisos said the Commission always listens to zoning requests from the public, some of which require short‐term attention and others longer term. Some of these requests are under current consideration. At its next meeting, the Commission will hold a public hearing on another group of amendments including allowing setback waivers and taller buildings along major corridors. The Commission is also addressing on‐going concerns with Form Based Code and has made a commitment to make it work. The Commission also works with other city committees (e.g., Affordable Housing, Bike/Ped) to see how their work can mesh with the work of the Commission. Some of the larger projects are being funded by grant money which is often used to hire consultants. The current Planned Unit Development (PUD) study will bring a major change for the DRB when it is completed. Mr. Behr said he will be very interested to see the different types of PUDs being proposed. Ms. Louisos said there will be 4 to 8 PUD types, each with clear criteria. Some cold look like an overlay 2 (e.g. Transit Overlay PUD in a well‐developed area of the city or an Agricultural PUD in the Southeast Quadrant). Mr. Behr noted the DRB is currently limited to a 25% parking waiver in an area with a lot of public transit. Some of these developments could require even less parking, but the DRB does not currently have the flexibility to allow for this. Mr. Conner suggested the possibility of credit from transportation impact fees for public transit, bike accommodations, etc. Mr. Wilking urged the Planning Commission not to come up with a maximum parking number. He felt that a developer is not going to build less parking than is needed for the project. Mr. Conner said that there are times when the regulations require more than is needed. Mr. Kochman felt that to rely solely on the developer is “misplaced.” Mr. Wilking said the big issue becomes the second user who may require more or less parking. Mr. Conner then noted some current zoning requests (these are on the website) including a request for small commercial in South Village and R‐4 setback standards to allow for front porches. Ms. Louisos then noted other on‐going studies including the Williston Road Transportation Study, the Tilley Drive Land Use Study, the scoping of bike/ped projects, and river corridor standards. The Commission also engages in “proactive” projects as time allows. Currently, these include looking at smaller houses in conjunction with affordable housing and scenic view. The Commission is also looking at redefining open space city‐wide using Form Based Code standards. Mr. Wilking expressed concern with existing tree replacement standards. He said that if a 14‐inch caliper tree is taken down, it has to be replaced with as many as 6 smaller trees, and often there is no room for these trees on the property. He noted an instance where trees were put on Market Street because there was no room on the applicant’s property, and now they have to come down because of road widening and development projects. This happens frequently and seems to make no sense. Mr. Kochman was concerned with the absence of standards for waivers in the Land Development Regulations (LDRs)s. He felt that one good thing that can come out of the PUD project is tidying up the approach to waivers, including standards for each. Mr. Wilking cautioned against tightening things up too much because it can inhibit creativity. With regard to scenic views, Mr. Kochman questioned whether it should be only a “public view” that is considered. Mr. Behr noted the difference between respecting the existing character of a neighborhood vs. the planned character of the neighborhood. Mr. Behr said this happens frequently when considering the character of neighborhoods adjacent to a development. 3 Ms. Keene stressed the issue of authority to deny an application with there are no standards. She asked what the Commission’s expectation is when there are no standards…just say “yes” or “use your judgment”? Mr. Behr said that when the DRB gets a new development adjacent to an existing neighborhood, they do not have the regulation or authority to take that neighborhood into consideration. That is a frequent complaint at DRB hearings. Mr. Behr said they need to address the “edge condition,” similar to the transitions buffers between residential and commercial developments. Mr. Wilking cited the requirement for no more than a 25‐foot setback when all the existing homes in the area have 75‐foot setbacks. The DRB doesn’t have the authority to change that. Ms. Louisos said that if the end goal is more of a “downtown,” with buildings closer to the road, you have to look toward that future. Mr. Behr said that with infill, you have to consider what is there now. Mr. Wilking cited the placement of CVS 6 feet off the boundary. The problem will arise with the future potential widening of Williston Road. Mr. Conner said that in a recent study a consultant found that the same capacity for traffic could be reached by widening Williston Road or by building a parallel street behind it which would open up more space for development. Mr. Kochman questioned the inability to stop a project because of traffic concerns. He didn’t feel a traffic impact fee is the answer to that problem. Mr. Conner cited the use of traffic impact fees for the bridge behind Trader Joe’s and the match for the Market Street construction. Mr. Wilking cited the need to coordinate intersections. Mr. Barritt noted there will be “adaptive signaling” on Dorset Street later this year. Mr. Wilking also cited issues with bike paths. They can go from “here to there,” but there is nothing to say what happens when it gets to “there.” Ms. Louisos noted the Bike/Ped Committee is working on a new bike/ped map to replace the older one now in effect. Mr. Wilking said a timetable would be helpful as would standards (is it a “sidewalk” or a “rec path”?) Ms. Ostby cited a request from the Affordable Housing Committee that all committees have a chance to look at a plan before it goes to the DRB. Mr. Behr said there would have to be some “bite” in the regulations so a committee’s recommendation can be taken into account. Ms. Ostby suggested a process in which several committees would meet together to consider an application and streamline the process for the developer. Mr. Kochman suggested sharing staff comments with committees. Ms. Keene noted the time issue as committees usually meet only once a month. Mr. Miller suggested that the Affordable Housing Committee work with a group to increase flexibility for developers to reduce their costs. Mr. Wilking noted that “affordable housing” is the most expensive to build. Mr. Kochman said the costs related to administration and fees. Mr. Conner noted that if a development has fewer than 275 houses and 20% are “affordable,” developers are exempt from Act 250 and their wastewater fees are capped. 4 Mr. Behr expressed concern with the timing of affordable housing. In the LDRs, there is a density bonus for affordable housing. But when the DRB sees a Master Plan, they don’t see what is “affordable” and when it will be built. The developer is told they can build up to the base density without building an affordable unit, but they may never build beyond that and will have used up all the land without building one affordable unit. A clear picture is needed of when affordable units are designated and built. If a developer is asking for a density bonus for affordable housing, it should be known where that housing will be and when it will be built. Mr. Behr added that if 10% of housing has to be affordable, 10% of what is built should have to be affordable, along a similar timeline. Mr. Wilking cited another issue with people who deliberately violate the rules, then come in after‐the‐ fact. He felt there should be some sort of punitive action. Mr. Belair said the intent is not to punish but to achieve compliance. As long as progress toward compliance, it is fine. Mr. Wilking felt there should be some other remedy other than going to court. Mr. Conner noted that the City Council will be considering the LDRs an “ordinance” which could trigger a ticketing option for violations. Mr. Wilking asked whether tax policy has any place in Planning Commission planning. Mr. Riehle said there used to be a 50‐50 residential‐commercial split, but that is not longer in effect. Mr. Barritt noted the City Council is considering a commercial reappraisal for the city. This would be a few years out. Mr. Conner questioned whether there should be more design review. Mr. Wilking felt there should be when a project abuts a “significantly traveled way.” Ms. Louisos noted that on Shelburne Road, the intent is to have corner buildings with a “corner presence.” Mr. Behr said developers are generally willing to listen to DRB requests to make buildings better to look at. 6. Public Comment on Topics Discussed: Ms. Dopp felt the more meetings like this one, the better. Mr. Barritt cited the number of hours put in by the two boards, thanking them for all of their work, and the amount of money coming into the city from redevelopment. He noted that Williston Rd. is on the verge of a lot of changes. He urged the Boards to come to the City Council when a need arises. Ms. Ostby cited the need for a safe way to get from Burlington to South Burlington. Ms. Dopp said it would have to be so attractive that people would use it. As there was no further business to come before the boards, the meeting was adjourned by common consent at 8:45 p.m. ____________________________, Clerk _______________________________, Clerk