HomeMy WebLinkAbout2019-10-15 drbagenda
AGENDA
South Burlington Development Review Board
575 Dorset Street, South Burlington, VT
Tuesday, October 15, 2019
7:00 p.m.
1. Directions on emergency evacuation procedures from conference room.
2. Additions, deletions, or changes in order of agenda items.
3. Comments and questions from the public not related to the agenda.
4. Announcements
5. Sketch plan application #SD‐19‐26 of Scott McAllister to subdivide an existing 1.2 acre parcel
developed with a single family home into three lots of 0.63 acres (Lot 1), 0.28 acres (Lot 2), and 0.28
acres (Lot 3) for the purpose of constructing one new single family home on each of Lots 2 and 3,
1430 Hinesburg Road.
6. Conditional use application #CU‐19‐07 of Ashley Truax to construct a 795 sq. ft. addition to an
existing single family home to be used as a garage and 552 sq. ft. accessory residential unit, 89
Hadley Road.
7. Continued Final plat application #SD‐19‐27 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 94 single family homes, 24 dwelling units in two‐family homes, 35
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 68 Transfer
Development Rights, 1505 Dorset Street.
8. Continued site plan application #SP‐19‐35 of the City of Burlington/Burlington International Airport
to amend a previously approved plan for an airport complex. The amendment consists of
constructing a 5,400 sq. ft. addition to an existing maintenance building to provide covered storage
for snow removal equipment, 1200 Airport Drive.
9. Reconsideration of preliminary and final plat application #SD‐19‐24 of Snyder‐Braverman
Development Co., LLC to subdivide an existing 21.74 acre lot into six lots of 0.43 acres (Lot M1), 0.69
acres (Lot M2), 1.33 acres (Lot M3), 1.35 acres (Garden Street), 5.86 acres (Lot N) and 12.08 acres
(Lot L), for the purpose of constructing Garden Street and a project south of Garden Street on Lots
M1, M2 and M3 which will be reviewed under separate site plan application, 390 Garden Street.
10. Minutes of January 29, February 19, October 1, 2019
11. Other business
Respectfully Submitted,
Marla Keene
Development Review Planner
Copies of the applications are available for public inspection at the South Burlington City Hall.
Participation in the local proceeding is a prerequisite to the right to take any subsequent appeal.
South Burlington Development Review Board Meeting Participation Guidelines
The Development Review Board (DRB) presents these guidelines for the public attending Development Review Board meetings to
ensure that everyone has a chance to speak and that meetings proceed smoothly.
The DRB is a Quasi-Judicial Board that oversees the adjudication of development projects within the City. It is made up of citizens
appointed by the City Council. The role of the DRB is to hear and review applications for development under the applicable
regulations. The DRB can only approve applications that comply with the applicable bylaw or state law, and the board can only levy
conditions that are permitted under the bylaw. By the same token, if a project meets the applicable bylaw criteria, the DRB is bound
by law to grant the approval.
1. The Board asks that all participants at meetings be respectful of Board members, staff, applicants and other members of the
public present at the meeting.
2. Initial discussion on an agenda item will generally be conducted by the Board and the applicant. As this is our opportunity to
engage with the subject, we would like to hear from all Board members first. After the Board members have discussed an
item, the Chair will open up the floor for public comment. Please raise your hand to be recognized to speak and the Chair
will try to call on each participant in sequence.
3. Once recognized by the Chair, please identify yourself to the Board.
4. If the Board suggests time limits, please respect them. Time limits will be used when they can aid in making sure everyone is
heard and sufficient time is available for Board to hear all items on the agenda.
5. Side conversations between audience members should be kept to an absolute minimum. The hallway outside the
Community Room is available should people wish to chat more fully.
6. Please address the Chair. Please do not address other audience members or staff or presenters and please do not interrupt
others when they are speaking. The Chair will direct responses from applicable people as needed.
7. Make every effort not to repeat the points made by others and keep your comments germane to the issue before the board.
8. The Chair will make reasonable efforts to allow everyone who is interested in participating to speak once before speakers
address the Board for a second time.
9. Comments may be submitted before or during the course of a single or multi-meeting public hearing to the Planning and
Zoning Department. All comments should identify what application the correspondence is in reference to. All written
comments will be circulated to the DRB and kept as part of the official records of meetings. Comments must include your
first and last name and a contact (e-mail, phone, address) to be included in the record.
10. Please note that once a public hearing has been closed by the DRB, no further comments can be accepted, in accordance
with state law.
#SD‐19‐26
Staff Comments
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CITY OF SOUTH BURLINGTON
DEVELOPMENT REVIEW BOARD
SD‐19‐26_1430 Hinesburg Rd_McAllister_SK_2019‐10‐
15.docx
DEPARTMENT OF PLANNING & ZONING
Report preparation date: October 10, 2019
Plans received: August 28, 2019
1430 Hinesburg Road
Sketch Plan Application #SD‐19‐26
Meeting date: October 15, 2019
Owner/Applicant
Scott McAllister
1430 Hinesburg Road
South Burlington, VT 05403
Engineer
Krebs & Lansing Consulting Engineers
154 Main Street, Suite 201
Colchester, VT 05446
Property Information
Tax Parcel 0860‐01430
Southeast Quadrant – Neighborhood Residential (SEQ‐NR)
2.01 acres
Location Map
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
Sketch plan application #SD‐19‐26 of Scott McAllister to subdivide an existing 1.2 acre parcel developed
with a single family home into three lots of 0.63 acres (Lot 1), 0.28 acres (Lot 2), and 0.28 acres (Lot 3)
for the purpose of constructing one new single family home on each of Lots 2 and 3, 1430 Hinesburg
Road.
#SD‐19‐26
Staff Comments
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2 of 4
COMMENTS
Development Review Planner Marla Keene and Director of Planning and Zoning Paul Conner (“Staff”)
have reviewed the plans submitted on 8/28/2019 and offer the following comments. Numbered items
for the Board’s attention are in red.
CONTEXT
The property is located in an area subject to Interim Zoning. The City Council approved application IZ‐
19‐04 authorizing the development of up to two new single family home building lots if DRB approval is
received. The new homes are proposed to have their own water supply well, as City water is not
available. The project will connect both the existing home and the proposed homes into the City
wastewater system. The three lot subdivision qualifies as a major subdivision, requiring preliminary and
final plat review.
ZONING DISTRICT & DIMENSIONAL REQUIREMENTS
Setbacks, Coverages & Lot Dimensions
Within the SEQ‐NR zoning district, the minimum lot size for a single family home is 12,000 sq. ft. with a base
density of 1.2 units per acre, and four (4) units per acre with the purchase of transferrable development
rights. With three (3) dwelling units proposed on 1.23 acres, two additional TDRs are required.
1. Staff recommends the Board discuss with the applicant the need to provide an option agreement to
purchase TDRs prior to final plat approval.
Maximum building coverage is 15% and maximum lot coverage is 30%. Under the Applicant’s proposed
subdivision and subsequent build‐out of the subdivided lots, the lots appear to be below both maximum
building and lot coverage, though additional information demonstrating compliance will be required at
subsequent stages of review.
SEQ General Standards
SEQ general standards pertain to Open Space and Resource protection, Agriculture, Public Services and
Facilities, and Circulation. Staff considers there are no issues with this application meeting these standards.
SEQ Regulating Plan
The SEQ regulating plans pertain to dimensional and design concepts intended to foster attractive and
walkable neighborhood development patterns. They pertain to street and block patterns and parks. One
requirement is that lots must have a standard minimum lot width to depth ratio of one to two (1:2). It
appears the applicant fails to meet this standard by a small amount on Lot 1 (the existing house lot), but
exceeds it on the other two lots.
2. Staff recommends the Board discuss this issue with the applicant.
SEQ‐NR Specific Standards
#SD‐19‐26
Staff Comments
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SEQ‐NR specific standards pertain to street, block and lot pattern; street, sidewalk and parking standards;
and residential design. Staff considers street, block and lot patterns standards and sidewalk and parking
standards not applicable to this three‐lot subdivision. Residential design standards pertain to building
orientation, front building setbacks, and location of garages and parking.
The applicant has provided a general footprint for the proposed homes showing set‐back garages as
required under 9.08C(4), and their general location approximately 50‐feet from the street. 9.08C(1)
requires buildings to be oriented to the street, while 9.08C(3) requires a maximum of 25‐foot setback from
the back of sidewalk (or in this case, the back of curb).
3. Staff recommends the Board discuss the setback criteria with the applicant.
SUBDIVISION STANDARDS
Subdivision standards pertain to water and wastewater capacity, natural resource protection, traffic,
visual compatibility with the surrounding area, open space, fire protection, relationship to the
Comprehensive Plan, and public infrastructure.
Subdivision criterion #5 requires projects to be visually compatible with planned development patterns in
the area, as specified in the Comprehensive Plan and the purpose of the zoning district.
The purpose statement of the SEQ is as follows.
A Southeast Quadrant District (SEQ) is hereby formed in order to encourage open space
preservation, scenic view and natural resource protection, wildlife habitat preservation, continued
agriculture, and well‐planned residential use in the area of the City known as the Southeast
Quadrant. The natural features, visual character and scenic views offered in this area have long
been recognized as very special and unique resources in the City and worthy of protection. The
design and layout of buildings and lots in a manner that in the judgment of the Development
Review Board will best create neighborhoods and a related network of open spaces consistent with
the Comprehensive Plan for the Southeast Quadrant shall be encouraged. Any uses not expressly
permitted are hereby prohibited, except those which are allowed as conditional uses.
The Comprehensive Plan identifies the planned development patterns for the Project area as lower
intensity, principally residential development. Lower intensity principally residential is defined as
follows.
Fostering a strong sense of neighborhood, these areas are primary residential in use, with
number of units and size of buildings to be among the lowest in the City. Open spaces are
accessible and thoughtfully arranged as community gathering places, and roadways should be
largely limited to local traffic with low volumes. While residential dwellings need not be all
detached, the general character and appearance is that of a single family neighborhood.
Building heights reflect this character. Small lots and small buildings are encouraged.
Commercial uses are limited to those serving a small or local population. More intense
commercial or industrial uses should be avoided.
Staff considers the proposed subdivision compatible with the comprehensive plan.
#SD‐19‐26
Staff Comments
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Subdivision criterion #10 requires projects to be consistent with the goals and objectives of the
Comprehensive Plan for the affected district. The Goals of the comprehensive plan follow.
1. Affordable & community Strong. Creating a robust sense of place and opportunity for our
residents and visitors.
2. Walkable. Bicycle and pedestrian friendly with safe transportation infrastructure.
3. Green & clean. Emphasizing sustainability for long‐term viability of a clean and green South
Burlington.
4. Opportunity Oriented. Being a supportive and engaged member of the larger regional and
statewide community.
The project lies within the Southeast Quadrant of the city. Southeast Quadrant objectives in the
Comprehensive Plan are:
60. Give priority to the conservation of contiguous and interconnected open space areas within this
quadrant outside of those areas [districts, zones] specifically designated for development.
61. Maintain opportunities for traditional and emerging forms of agriculture that complement and
help sustain a growing city, and maintain the productivity of South Burlington’s remaining
agricultural lands.
62. Enhance Dorset Street as the SEQ’s “main street” with traffic calming techniques, streetscape
improvements, safe interconnected pedestrian pathways and crossings, and a roadway profile
suited to its intended local traffic function.
Staff considers this project, as a two‐lot subdivision, does not detract from any of the goals or objectives
of the comprehensive plan.
Staff considers there do not appear to be issues with compliance with other subdivision criteria, but
they will be reviewed in detail at the next stage of review.
RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends that the Board discuss the Project with the applicant and close the meeting.
Respectfully submitted,
Marla Keene, Development Review Planner
CITY OF SOUTH BURLINGTON
DEVELOPMENT REVIEW BOARD
CU‐19‐07_89 Hadley Rd_Truax_2019‐10‐15.docx
DEPARTMENT OF PLANNING & ZONING
Report preparation date: October 10, 2019
Application received: March 13, 2018
89 Hadley Road
Conditional Use Application #CU‐19‐07
Meeting date: October 15, 2019
Applicant
Ashley Truax
89 Hadley Road
South Burlington, VT 05403
Owners
Devin Praino and Ashley Truax
89 Hadley Road
South Burlington, VT 05403
Engineer
Button Professional Land Surveyors, PC
20 Kimball Ave Suite 102
South Burlington, VT 05403
Property Information
Tax Parcel ID 0750‐00089
Residential 4 Zoning District
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
Conditional use application #CU‐19‐07 of Ashley Truax to construct a 795 sq. ft. addition to an existing
single family home to be used as a garage and 552 sq. ft. accessory residential unit, 89 Hadley Road.
CU-19-07 89 Hadley Rd
CONTEXT
The Project is located within the Residential 4 zoning district. The applicant is proposing to renovate an
existing single family home by expanding the first floor footprint, adding a second floor, demolishing the
existing single car garage, and constructing a new attached two car garage with an accessory residential
unit located above the garage.
This project is subject to review under the LDRs covering the R4 zoning district, the accessory residential
unit standards of 3.10, and Section 14.10 conditional uses.
COMMENTS
Development Review Planner Marla Keene and Director of Planning and Zoning Paul Conner have
reviewed the plans submitted on September 9, 2019 and offer the following comments. Numbered items
for the Board’s attention are in red.
Zoning District & Dimensional Requirements:
R4 Zoning District Required Existing Proposed
@ Min. Lot Size 9,500 SF 8,759 SF
1 No change
Max. Building Coverage 20 % 12% 20.0%
Max. Overall Coverage 40 % 28% 34.8%
@ Min. Front Setback 30 ft. 23.1 ft. 24.0 ft.
2
@ Min. Side Setback 10 ft. 9.5 ft. 5.2 ft.
3
Min. Rear Setback 30 ft. 65.9 ft. 58.0 ft.
Max Height, pitched roof 28 ft. <28 ft. <28 ft.
4
√ Zoning Compliance
@ Existing nonconforming
1. Not in compliance but qualifies under 3.05(D) as a pre‐existing small lot
2. The applicant is proposing to slightly reduce the existing non‐conformity by modifying the
roof overhang.
3. 3.06J(1) allows lots which have existed in their current configuration since prior to
February 28, 1974 to encroach into the side or rear setback a distance equal to 50% of
the side or rear setback requirement of the district, but in no event shall the structure
have a side setback of less than five (5) feet. 3.06J(1) does not require DRB approval.
4. The applicant has not provided documentation other than an affirmative statement the
height will be less than 28 feet. The applicant intends to add a second story to the existing
one‐story building.
1. Staff recommends the Board consider whether to require a specific measurement of
the proposed height.
3.10 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.
CU-19-07 89 Hadley Rd
The habitable area of the principal dwelling unit, after the proposed renovations, will be 1879
square feet. The proposed habitable area of the accessory residential unit is 552 square feet,
or 29.3% of the habitable area of the principal dwelling unit. Staff considers this criterion met.
(2) The principal dwelling shall be owner‐occupied.
The applicant has provided an affirmative statement in their application materials that this
criterion will be met.
(3) The accessory dwelling unit shall be an efficiency or one‐bedroom unit.
The accessory dwelling unit is proposed to be one bedroom. Staff considers 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.
Staff recommends the Board require the applicant to submit an application for 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 applicant is proposing to reconfigure their existing driveway. The minimum number of
parking spaces for the principal dwelling unit is two, which will be provided in the proposed
two‐car garage. The reconfigured driveway will accommodate an additional an additional two
to three cars. Staff considers this criterion met.
(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.
Staff recommends the Board require the applicant to obtain a zoning permit prior to
beginning construction.
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.
Staff considers this project will have no adverse effect upon community facilities.
(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.
The “specifically stated policies and standards of the municipal plan” is statutory language which refers to
CU-19-07 89 Hadley Rd
the LDR and Comprehensive Plan. The purpose of the R4 district is “to encourage residential use at
moderate densities that are compatible with existing neighborhoods and undeveloped land adjacent to
those neighborhoods.” This property is located immediately east of a property owned by the City of South
Burlington for the purpose of a 20‐foot wide recreation path easement, and north of a property used for
a private fitness club. Based on a review of aerial imagery, the existing home appears to have the smallest
footprint on it’s side of the street, though the proposed addition will bring it into line with nearby homes.
No other homes in the immediate vicinity appear to be two stories; they are either one story or 1.5 stories.
The property is located in an area characterized in the Comprehensive Plan as lower intensity, principally
residential.
Relevant excerpts from the Comprehensive Plan are as follows.
Lower intensity, principally residential. Fostering a strong sense of neighborhood, these areas
are primarily residential in use, with number of units and size of buildings to be among the
lowest in the City. Open spaces are accessible and thoughtfully arranged as community
gathering places, and roadways should be largely limited to local traffic with low volumes.
While residential dwellings need not be all detached, the general character and appearance is
that of a single family neighborhood. Building heights reflect this character. Small lots and
small buildings are encouraged. Commercial uses are limited to those serving a small or local
population. More intense commercial or industrial uses should be avoided.
Southwest Quadrant Objective 54. Promote higher‐density, mixed use development and
redevelopment along Shelburne Road and foster effective transitions to adjacent residential
areas.
Objective 4. Support the retention of existing and construction of new affordable and moderate‐
income housing, emphasizing both smaller single family homes and apartments, to meet
demand within the regional housing market.
Objective 5. Build and reinforce diverse, walkable neighborhoods that offer a good quality of
life by designing and locating new and renovated housing in a context‐sensitive manner that
will facilitate development of a high‐density, City Center, mixed used transit corridors, and
compact residential neighborhoods.
Staff reminds the Board that the application must not result in an undue adverse effect on the character;
it does not necessarily have to match the remainder of the neighborhood.
2. Staff recommends the Board discuss whether they consider this criterion met.
(3) Traffic on roads and highways in the vicinity.
Staff considers this project will have no adverse effect on traffic on roads and highways in the vicinity.
(4) Bylaws and ordinances then in effect.
Staff considers this Project consistent with the standards described in this document, except as noted.
(5) Utilization of renewable energy resources.
This project will not affect renewable energy resources. The applicant has stated their selected
architectural design will support rooftop solar. Staff considers this criterion met.
CU-19-07 89 Hadley Rd
RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends the Board work with the applicant to address the issues identified herein.
Respectfully submitted,
___________________________
Marla Keene, Development Review Planner
#SD‐19‐27
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CITY OF SOUTH BURLINGTON
DEVELOPMENT REVIEW BOARD
SD‐19‐27_1505 Dorset St_Dorset Meadow_2019‐10‐
15.docx
DEPARTMENT OF PLANNING & ZONING
Report preparation date: October 10, 2019
Application received: August 22, 2019
1505 Dorset Street
Final Plat Application #SD‐19‐27
Meeting date: October 15, 2019
Owner/Applicant
Dorset Meadows Associates, LLC
44 Park Street
Essex Junction, VT 05452
Engineer
O’Leary Burke Civil Associates
13 Corporate Dr.
Essex Junction, VT 05452
Property Information
Tax Parcel 0570‐01475, 0570‐01505
SEQ Zoning District‐ Neighborhood Residential, SEQ Zoning District‐ Village Residential,
SEQ Zoning District‐ Natural Resource Protection
69.86 acres
Location Map
#SD‐19‐27
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PROJECT DESCRPTION
Final plat application #SD‐19‐27 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 94
single family homes, 24 dwelling units in two‐family homes, 35 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 711 Transferable Development Rights, 1505 Dorset Street.
PERMIT HISTORY
The Project received preliminary plat and master plan approval on June 28, 2019. The approvals were
appealed to the Environmental Court July 26, 2019. The Environmental Court issued a Stipulated Order
of Dismissal without Prejudice on September 27, 2019. This order states that the appealing bodies may
raise all matters raised in their original appeal in an appeal of the currently pending application (SD‐19‐
27).
The preliminary plat and master plan stipulated certain matters to be reviewed further and decided at
Final Plat. The following document notes where matters were decided at master plan or preliminary
plat, and whether any changes affecting those criteria have been made in the current submission. In
general, the project is consistent with the preliminary and master plan approvals, with changes as
necessary to address outstanding items from those approvals. The development is subject to
subdivision standards, site plan standards, and the Southeast Quadrant standards, including design
review.
LEGAL CONSIDERATIONS
The proposed project includes the purchase and use of Transferable Development Rights (TDR). In a
separate case, In re: Snyder Development Company, the Environmental Court issued a decision in March
2019 invalidating a portion of the City’s Land Development Regulations pertaining the TDR provisions.
That Court decision has been appealed by both the appellant and the applicant to the Supreme Court
and therefore the status of the TDR provisions has not been ultimately decided. Oral arguments before
the Supreme Court took place in that case last month and a decision is expected to be issued at some
point during the winter of 2019‐2020.
In the meantime, the applicant for this project has elected to proceed to preliminary plat and now final
plat at their own risk. Without a final decision on the status of the TDR provisions, the Board determined
that it should continue with its review under the Regulations in effect at the time of submittal of the
preliminary plat application.
Preliminary & Final Plat
Having issued a preliminary plat decision, the Board’s review at final plat is narrowed to those issues not
yet decided at preliminary plat, those topics reserved in the Regulations for final plat, and changes or
1 It appears an error was made in calculation of TDR requirements at preliminary plat. All of the input data was
correct (lot coverage and unit count) but the required number of TDRs was erroneously reported to be 68. The
applicant needs 70.2 TDRs. Since TDRs can only be purchased in whole increments, the applicant needs 71 TDRs.
#SD‐19‐27
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modifications in the plans from the preliminary plat submission. Staff notes herein reflect those
narrowed subject areas.
COMMENTS
Development Review Planner Marla Keene and Planning and Zoning Director Paul Conner, hereafter
referred to as Staff, have reviewed the plans submitted by the applicant and have the following
comments.
Numbered items for the Board’s attention are in red.
A. ZONING DISTRICT & DIMENSIONAL REQUIREMENTS
DENSITY
At preliminary plat, the Board approved the applicants’ request that the boundary of the SEQ‐NR sub‐
district be adjusted 50 feet to the west in the SEQ‐NRP sub‐district, as allowed under LDR Section 15.03C,
and approved replacement of the lands removed from the SEQ‐NRP with conserved lands adjacent to the
NRP within the SEQ‐NR district. Including the area of the NRP where the regulations of the NR apply, the
Board approved construction of 35 dwelling units within the 14.97‐acre SEQ‐VR sub‐district, and 120 units,
including the existing single family home, within the 38.89‐acre SEQ‐NR sub‐district. As approved at
preliminary plat (and as presented in this application), the project proposes to use 71 TDRs. As required
at preliminary plat, the Applicant has provided proof of an option to purchase sufficient TDRs as part of
this application.
1. Staff recommends the Board include a condition requiring that the zoning permit for the 83rd dwelling
unit not be approved unless and until the applicant records the conservation easement and density
transfer documents approved by the City Attorney.
DIMENSIONAL STANDARDS
At master plan and preliminary plat, the board approved the following dimensional standard waivers.
Standard SEQ‐NR
Requirement
SEQ‐VR
Requirement
Requested Revised
Standard
Min. Lot Size, Single Family 12,000 sq. ft. 12,000 sq. ft. 4,600 sq. ft.1
Max. Building Coverage,
Single, Two and Multi‐
Family
15% 15% 30%
1
Max. Overall Coverage,
Single, Two and Multi‐
Family
30% 30% 45%
1
Min. Front Setback, Single,
Two and Multi‐Family
20 ft. 20 ft. 15 ft.
Min. Side Setback, Single
and Two Family
10 ft. 10 ft. 5 ft.
Min. Rear Setback, Units 88
to 91
30 ft. N/A 10 ft.
1. Lot size and coverage waivers were approved in master plan MP‐18‐01.
#SD‐19‐27
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Aside from units 88 to 91, no waivers are requested for rear setbacks or for side setbacks for the multi‐
family homes. The Board preliminarily found the front setback waiver request supports the goal of an
activated street presence with open spaces interwoven throughout the development and recommends
the Board accept the front setback waiver request. No changes to the requested setback waivers have
been presented in this application. The applicant has revised the plan to show how the 10‐foot rear
setback waiver could be met by units 88‐91.
Regarding side setbacks and as discussed at preliminary plat, the narrowest lots are located in the interior
of the development and appear to have a minimum width of 46 feet. Based on the provided elevations,
it appears that only two of the provided single family home types would fit within the remaining 36 feet
on the interior lots. For the exterior lots, it appears the widest home types (the ranch‐style single family
homes) will use the entire available width within the requested setback but the other home types will not
require a setback waiver. With these considerations regarding width, the Board required the applicant to
record a notice of conditions requiring that no more than two homes of the same type be located adjacent
to one another. The applicant has incorporated this as an element of their design guidelines.
2. Staff recommends the Board require the applicant to record the Unit Design Guidelines document as
a condition of approval.
Preconstruction Grade
At preliminary plat, the Board approved the applicant’s request for an adjusted preconstruction grade as
allowed under Section 3.12 to minimize the amount of fill while still allowing for sewer and drainage flows
without the need for pumps.
3. Staff notes it does not appear the applicant has made any modifications to the approved adjusted
grades but recommends the Board confirm this with the applicant.
Dorset Park View Protection Zone D
Much of the subject acreage is located within the Dorset Park View Protection Zone D. The maximum
elevation is based on an equation taking into consideration the distance of the building from the baseline,
located on Golf Course Road. Within the limits of the area proposed for development, the limiting
maximum elevation is 433.6 feet. This maximum elevation is in the area where single family homes are
proposed to have an adjusted preconstruction grade in the range of 397 feet, resulting in a maximum
total height at the peak of the roof of 36.6 feet.
4. Buildings meeting the allowable height of 28 feet at the midpoint of the roof will likely fall below the
maximum allowable elevation. The applicant has stated in their cover letter their willingness to
demonstrate that each proposed structure is compliant with the View Protection Zone prior to the
issuance of the zoning permit for each building. Staff recommends the Board include this as a condition
of approval.
B. PLANNED UNIT DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS
Pursuant to Section 15.18 of the South Burlington Land Development Regulations, PUDs shall comply with
the following standards and conditions:
#SD‐19‐27
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(A)(1) Sufficient water supply and wastewater disposal capacity is available to meet the needs of the
project.
The Applicant obtained preliminary water allocation for 164 units on August 8, 2018. The Applicant is
currently proposing 154 units.
The Applicant obtained preliminary wastewater allocation for 154 units on July 15, 2019. At preliminary
plat, the Applicant has proposed to provide a $350 per unit fee to cover their share of upgrades to the
Vermont National pump station. The applicant has provided a payment schedule and inflation adjustment
methodology in their cover letter for this application. Staff considers this criterion met.
(A)(2) Sufficient grading and erosion controls will be utilized during and after construction to prevent soil
erosion and runoff from creating unhealthy or dangerous conditions on the subject property and adjacent
properties.
The Project will require either an individual or general State construction stormwater permit. The
Applicant has submitted a detailed erosion control plan as part of this application, which was not part of the
previous application. Staff notes the plan appears to meet the requirements of Article 16, but has some
concerns about the proposed location of soil stockpile areas in the open spaces for each phase. Staff notes
that soil stockpiles are typically present until a phase is fully built‐out and that this could preclude use of the
open space associated with each phase until the end of construction of that phase.
5. Staff recommends the Board impose timelines on when the open spaces must be constructed, perhaps at
a percent completion or unit count for each phase.
(A)(3) The project incorporates access, circulation, and traffic management strategies sufficient to prevent
unreasonable congestion of adjacent roads.
The Board found this criterion met at preliminary plat. The Fire Inspector reviewed the plans on
September 19, 2019 and requested the applicant widen Bellflower Court to 20‐feet. The applicant
provided a revised plan set on October 4, 2019 reflecting this change. Other Fire Inspector comments are
discussed below. Staff considers no other changes have been made affecting compliance with this
criterion. Staff considers this criterion met.
(A)(4) The project’s design respects and will provide suitable protection to wetlands, streams, wildlife
habitat as identified in the Open Space Strategy, and any unique natural features on the site.
Compliance with this criterion is discussed in the findings for MP‐18‐01. Staff considers no changes
affecting compliance with this criterion have been made.
(A)(5) The project is designed to be visually compatible with the planned development patterns in the
area, as specified in the Comprehensive Plan and the purpose of the zoning district(s) in which it is
located.
The Board found this criterion preliminarily met at preliminary plat. The only changes at the perimeter
of the development are a five‐foot shift to the east of the two eastern multifamily structures on
Nowland Farm Road, and a 10‐foot shift to the east of the two multifamily buildings on the south side of
Trillium Street. Staff considers no changes affecting compliance with this criterion have been made.
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(A)(6) Open space areas on the site have been located in such a way as to maximize opportunities for
creating contiguous open spaces between adjoining parcels and/or stream buffer areas.
The Board found this criterion preliminarily met at preliminary plat. Staff considers no changes affecting
compliance with this criterion have been made.
(A)(7) The layout of a subdivision or PUD has been reviewed by the Fire Chief or (designee) to ensure that
adequate fire protection can be provided.
In an email to staff dated September 18, 2019, the Fire Inspector provided the following comments.
Upon review of the Dorset Meadows proposed overall site plan dated July 2019, the SBFD FMO
has the following comments.
1) WB 40 1990 driving template. All trees, street signs, light post or any other obstructions shall
support the template. Mountable curbs maybe required at all intersections at the discretion of
the SBFD FMO.
2) Fire hydrants shall remain clear of any obstructions at a minimum of 36" in all directions.
3) Parking allowed only on one side of a street that is less than 20' wide.
4) Bellflower Court shall be increased to a minimum of 20' wide.
If there are any changes to the plan we received from The Planning and Zoning Office dated July
2019, we would review those plans for further comment.
We highly recommend that the developer meet with the SBFD FMO prior to construction to clarify
the plans and expectations.
The applicant made the requested changes to the plans on 10/4/2019. Staff provided the revised plans
to the Fire Inspector, who provided the following follow‐up comment on 10/9/2019.
I took a look, just want to repeat the comment of having signs, trees, light poles or any other
obstructions to be pushed back at all the intersections.
6. An additional comment from the Fire Chief is that the turning movement plan at the multifamily homes
on Nowland Farm Road should be revised to show whether a WB‐40 can go behind the western homes
without hitting the curb. The Fire Chief has also requested signage indicating no parking between the
designated parking areas on this driveway. Staff recommends the Board consider whether to require
a slightly enlarged area to allow intermittent parking of service vehicles, so that service vehicles do
not end up parked in the area needed for emergency vehicle movements.
(A)(8) Roads, recreation paths, stormwater facilities, sidewalks, landscaping, utility lines and lighting have
been designed in a manner that is compatible with the extension of such services and infrastructure to
adjacent landowners.
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At preliminary plat, the Board noted concerns of the Stormwater Services Division related to compliance
with this criterion. The applicant made requested changes to the plans and the stormwater services
division reviewed the plans on September 6, 2019 and considered their comments addressed.
7. The Stormwater services recommends the DRB include a condition requiring the applicant to
regularly maintain all stormwater treatment and conveyance infrastructure.
Otherwise Staff considers this criterion met.
(A)(9) Roads, utilities, sidewalks, recreation paths, and lighting are designed in a manner that is
consistent with City utility and roadway plans and maintenance standards, absent a specific agreement
with the Applicant related to maintenance that has been approved by the City Council. For Transect
Zone subdivisions, this standard shall only apply to the location and type of roads, recreation paths, and
sidewalks.
The Board found this criterion preliminarily met at preliminary plat. Staff considers no changes affecting
compliance with this criterion have been made.
8. The Public Works Director reviewed the plans and indicated by email on 10/10/2019 he has no
additional comments. They have addressed all earlier concerns and everything appears in order.
(A)(10) The project is consistent with the goals and objectives of the Comprehensive Plan for the affected
district(s).
This criterion was discussed extensively at preliminary plat and the Board ultimately found this criterion
met. Staff considers no changes affecting compliance with this criterion have been made.
C. SITE PLAN REVIEW STANDARDS
Pursuant to Section 14.03(A)(6) of the South Burlington Land Development Regulations, any PUD shall
require site plan approval. Excluded from site plan review are one and two family dwellings on a single lot.
This means that the two family dwellings and the single family dwellings on shared lots within the Proposed
development are subject to these standards, because they are not located on single lots. Section 14.06 of
the South Burlington Land Development Regulations establishes the following general review standards
for all site plan applications:
A. Relationship of Proposed Development to the City of South Burlington Comprehensive Plan. Due
attention by the applicant should be given to the goals and objectives and the stated land use
policies for the City of South Burlington as set forth in the Comprehensive Plan.
Conformance with the Comprehensive Plan is described in conjunction with Planned Unit
Development Standard (A)(10) above.
B. Relationship of Proposed Structures to the Site.
(1) The site shall be planned to accomplish a desirable transition from structure to site, from
structure to structure, and to provide for adequate planting, safe pedestrian movement,
and adequate parking areas.
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The Board found this criterion preliminarily met at preliminary plat. Staff considers no changes
affecting compliance with this criterion have been made.
(2) Parking:
(a) Parking shall be located to the rear or sides of buildings. Any side of a building facing
a public street shall be considered a front side of a building for the purposes of this
subsection.
The Board found this criterion preliminarily met at preliminary plat. Staff considers no
changes affecting compliance with this criterion have been made.
(3) Without restricting the permissible limits of the applicable zoning district, the height and
scale of each building shall be compatible with its site and existing or anticipated
adjoining buildings.
The Board found this criterion preliminarily met at preliminary plat. Staff considers no
changes affecting compliance with this criterion have been made.
See also section 9.08C and 9.09C for a discussion of SEQ housing styles
(4) Newly installed utility services and service modifications necessitated by exterior
alterations or building expansion shall, to the extent feasible, be underground.
At preliminary plat, the Board required the applicant to submit drawings showing the proposed
layout of site utilities, including electric cabinets, as part of the final plat application. The applicant
has done so, generally locating the utility cabinets to the rear of the sidewalk. Utilities are
proposed to be underground. Staff considers this criterion met.
C. Relationship of Structures and Site to Adjoining Area.
(1) The Development Review Board shall encourage the use of a combination of common
materials and architectural characteristics (e.g., rhythm, color, texture, form or detailing),
landscaping, buffers, screens and visual interruptions to create attractive transitions
between buildings of different architectural styles.
(2) Proposed structures shall be related harmoniously to themselves, the terrain and to
existing buildings and roads in the vicinity that have a visual relationship to the proposed
structures.
The Board found this criterion preliminarily met at preliminary plat. Staff considers no
changes affecting compliance with this criterion have been made.
Staff recommends the Board incorporate the Unit Design Guidelines as a condition of
approval.
In addition to the above general review standards, site plan applications shall meet the following specific
standards as set forth in Section 14.07 of the Land Development Regulations:
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A. Access to Abutting Properties. The reservation of land may be required on any lot for provision of
access to abutting properties whenever such access is deemed necessary to reduce curb cuts onto
an arterial or collector street, to provide additional access for emergency or other purposes, or to
improve general access and circulation in the area.
The applicant has proposed a street and recreation path connection to the south adjacent
property for future connection and a pedestrian trail easement to the west. At preliminary plat,
the Board required the applicant to update their plat plan to reflect the pedestrian trail easement.
The applicant has done so.
9. Staff recommends the Board discuss with the applicant whether to require the applicant to
clear a pedestrian path within the proposed easement. On one hand, the easement dead‐ends
at a different property (which is controlled by the applicant), which may create conflicts. On
the other hand, the Board requested the easement in order to set up the project for long‐term
pedestrian connectivity to the Underwood parcel, and if walking trails are left to develop
naturally they may not be located within the proposed easement.
B. Utility Services. Electric, telephone and other wire‐served utility lines and service connections shall
be underground. Any utility installations remaining above ground shall be located so as to have a
harmonious relation to neighboring properties and to the site.
See discussion under Site Plan General Review Standards above.
C. Disposal of Wastes. All dumpsters and other facilities to handle solid waste, including compliance
with any recycling or other requirements, shall be accessible, secure and properly screened with
opaque fencing to ensure that trash and debris do not escape the enclosure(s).
The applicant has proposed a dumpster location for the multifamily units. At preliminary plat, the
Board required the applicant to demonstrate compliance with the requirement for complete
enclosure of the solid waste areas as part of the final plat application. The applicant has provided
a 6‐foot tall enclosure constructed of wood privacy slats and matching gates. Staff considers this
criterion met.
D. Landscaping and Screening Requirements. (See Article 13, Section 13.06)
The Board found this criterion preliminarily met at preliminary plat. The applicant had to make
updates to the landscaping plan and budget based on other plan changes. The applicant
estimates the total minimum required landscape budget to be $150,887 based on a total
building cost of $14,058,750 (excluding single family homes2, which are exempt from minimum
landscape budget standards). The applicant has proposed to provide $1,500 to $1,600 in
landscaping for each duplex or townhome, and $2,100 to $2,500 for each mutilfamily building.
They are also proposing additional plantings around the townhome and duplex areas, for a total
provided landscaping of $151,400. They are also proposing additional $140,200 in site
landscaping in the open spaces, wetland buffers and stormwater treatment areas, which Staff
considers can be considered as contributing to the minimum required landscape value.
2 Duplexes on their own lot are also exempt from landscape budget standards, but none are proposed.
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10. Staff recommends the Board confirm the above‐referenced values represent the value of
trees and shrubs only, and excludes perennials and grasses. If it does not, then Staff
recommends the Board require the applicant to update their provided landscape values to
evaluate whether the minimum required landscape value is provided.
11. Staff recommends the Board require the applicant to bond for the total $291,600 landscape
value if this is the value the Board considers necessary to meet the landscaping requirements
of 13.06. Staff recommends the Board give the applicant the opportunity to provide a
breakdown of landscape costs by project phase in order to allow landscape bonding to run
by phase rather than overall.
12. The City Arborist provided comments on the plans in an email dated September 3, 2019. It
appears the applicant addressed these comments in a submission on October 4, 2019. Staff
has forwarded the revised plans to the City Arborist and anticipates receiving confirmation
by the time of the hearing.
The provided Utility Screening Primary Transformer and Secondary Pedestal details on sheet L‐
205, showing that the front of the transformers will face the sidewalk and not be screened from
the sidewalk, though they will be screened on the sides and the side facing the homes. 13.06C
requires all utility improvements such as transformer(s) to be effectively screened. Such
screening shall be a permanently maintained landscape of evergreen or a mix of evergreen and
deciduous trees and shrubs, or a solid fence.
13. Staff recommends the Board review whether the provided landscaping meets the screening
standard of 13.06C.
D. SOUTHEAST QUADRANT
This proposed subdivision is located in the southeast quadrant district. Therefore, it is subject to the
provisions of Section 9 of the SBLDR.
9.06 Dimensional and Design Requirements Applicable to All Sub‐Districts. The following standards
shall apply to development and improvements within the entire SEQ:
A. Height. See Article 3.07.
Article 3.07 states that the requirements of Table C‐2, Dimensional Standards, apply for the
maximum number of stories and the maximum height. Waivers area not available for
structures with the SEQ zoning district.
The Project is located within the SEQ‐NRP, SEQ‐NR, and SEQ‐VR sub‐districts. The Board
found this criterion met at preliminary plat. Staff considers no changes affecting compliance
with this criterion have been made.
B. Open Space and Resource Protection.
(1) Open space areas on the site shall be located in such a way as to maximize opportunities for
creating usable, contiguous open spaces between adjoining parcels
The Board found this criterion met at preliminary plat. Staff considers no changes affecting
compliance with this criterion have been made.
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(2) Building lots, streets and other structures shall be located in a manner consistent with the
Regulating Plan for the applicable sub‐district allowing carefully planned development at
the average densities provided in this bylaw.
The Board found this criterion met at preliminary plat. Staff considers no changes affecting
compliance with this criterion have been made.
(3) A plan for the proposed open spaces and/or natural areas and their ongoing management
shall be established by the applicant.
At preliminary plat, the Board required the applicant to provide an open space and tree
management plan to be incorporated into the HOA documents and as a condition in the event of
final plat approval. The open space and tree management plan is required to have wetland
buffers clearly delineated, and should indicate that open spaces and trees shall be maintained as
designed, including language allowing for appropriate maintenance of the recreation trail
easement located within the Natural Resource Protection zone.
14. The applicant provided a new sheet, L‐206 Open Space & Vegetation Management Plan. It
does not appear to include specific language for maintenance of the recreation trail easement
located within the Natural Resource Protection zone, other than to note its existence. Staff
recommends the Board require the applicant to amend this plan.
In the wetland buffer area, the applicant is proposing the following maintenance plan:
Buffer area are to be planted using a matrix of grassland/shrubland community plant
species, as well as several native tree species. Upon establishment of plantings, buffer
areas are to be left to vegetate naturally, except in height management area.
The wetland buffer occurs at the toe of a proposed slope which ranges in height from three to
approximately eight feet. The applicant is proposing a moderately dense row of trees along the
buffer, which staff estimates will mark approximately 50% of the line. Staff considers wetland
buffers adequately delineated.
There are some existing trees located within the development. At preliminary plat, the Board
approved the applicant to preserve approximately 3 maples and 9 pines during development of
the parcel but that the HOA shall not be required to retain them should management become
an issue in the future.
15. Staff notes those trees do not appear to be shown on the current planset and recommends
the Board require the applicant to show those trees on both the erosion control plans and
the landscaping plans.
(4) Sufficient grading and erosion controls shall be employed during construction and after
construction to prevent soil erosion and runoff from creating unhealthy or dangerous
conditions on the subject property and adjacent properties. In making this finding, the
Development Review Board may rely on evidence that the project will be covered under the
General Permit for Construction issued by the Vermont Department of Environmental
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Conservation.
See discussion under PUD Criteria A(2).
(5) Sufficient suitable landscaping and fencing shall be provided to protect wetland, stream, or
primary or natural community areas and buffers in a manner that is aesthetically
compatible with the surrounding landscape. Chain link fencing other than for agricultural
purposes shall be prohibited within PUDs; the use of split rail or other fencing made of
natural materials is encouraged.
At preliminary plat, the Board required the applicant to provide a plan as part of their final plat
application for additional landscaping and/or fencing that will protect the conservation areas
adjacent to units 88 to 91 in a manner that is aesthetically compatible with the surrounding
landscape. It appears the applicant has revised the footprint of units 88 to 91 slightly to meet the
10‐foot rear yard setback, but was unable to locate any information pertaining to landscaping and
fencing.
16. Staff recommends the Board require the applicant to provide a well‐thought‐out buffering
plan prior to closing the hearing.
C. Agriculture. The conservation of existing agricultural production values is encouraged through
development planning that supports agricultural uses (including but not limited to development
plans that create contiguous areas of agricultural use), provides buffer areas between existing
agricultural operations and new development, roads, and infrastructure, or creates new
opportunities for agricultural use (on any soil group) such as but not limited to community‐
supported agriculture.
The Board found this criterion met at preliminary plat. Staff considers no changes affecting
compliance with this criterion have been made.
D. Public Services and Facilities. In the absence of a specific finding by the Development Review
Board that an alternative location and/or provision is approved for a specific development,
the location of buildings, lots, streets and utilities shall conform with the location of planned
public facilities as depicted on the Official Map, including but not limited to recreation paths,
streets, park land, schools, and sewer and water facilities.
(1) Sufficient water supply and wastewater disposal capacity shall be available to meet the
needs of the project in conformance with applicable State and City requirement, as
evidenced by a City water allocation, City wastewater allocation, and/or Vermont Water
and Wastewater Permit from the Department of Environmental Conservation.
The applicant has obtained preliminary water and wastewater allocation as discussed above.
Staff considers this criterion met.
(2) Recreation paths, storm water facilities, sidewalks, landscaping, utility lines, and lighting
shall be designed in a manner that is compatible with the extension of such services and
infrastructure to adjacent properties.
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See discussion under PUD Standard (A)(9) above.
(3) Recreation paths, utilities, sidewalks, and lighting shall be designed in a manner that is
consistent with City utility plans and maintenance standards, absent a specific agreement
with the applicant related to maintenance that has been approved by the City Council.
See discussion under PUD Standard (A)(9) above.
(4) The plan shall be reviewed by the Fire Chief or his designee to insure that adequate fire
protection can be provided, with the standards for evaluation including, but not limited to,
minimum distance between structures, street width, vehicular access from two directions
where possible, looping of water lines, water flow and pressure, and number and location
of hydrants.
See discussion under PUD Standard (A)(7) above.
D. Circulation. The project shall incorporate access, circulation and traffic management strategies
sufficient to prevent unsafe conditions on adjacent roads and sufficient to create connectivity
for pedestrians, bicycles, vehicles, school transportation, and emergency service vehicles
between neighborhoods. In making this finding the Development Review Board may rely on
the findings of a traffic study submitted by the applicant, and the findings of any technical
review by City staff or consultants.
(1) Roads shall be designed in a manner that is compatible with the extension of such services
and infrastructure to adjacent properties.
(2) Roads shall be designed in a manner that is consistent with City roadway plans and
maintenance standards, absent a specific agreement with the applicant related to
maintenance that has been approved by the City Council.
(3) The provisions of Section 15.12(D)(4) related to connections between adjacent streets and
neighborhoods shall apply.
See discussion under PUD Standards (A)(8) and (A)(9) above.
9.07 Regulating Plans
A. ...
B. General Provisions
(1) …
(2) All residential lots created on or after the effective date of this bylaw in any SEQ sub‐district
shall conform to a standard minimum lot width to depth ratio of one to two (1:2), with ratios
of 1:2.5 to 1:5 recommended
The Board found this criterion met at preliminary plat. Staff considers no changes affecting
compliance with this criterion have been made.
C. …
D. Parks Design and Development.
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(1) General standards. The SEQ has an existing large community park, the Dorset Street Park
Complex. Parks in the SEQ may be programmed as neighborhood parks or mini‐parks as
defined in the Comprehensive Plan. Mini parks in the SEQ should be a minimum of 10,000
square feet, with programming approved by the South Burlington Recreation Department.
Such parks are to be located through the neighborhoods in order to provide a car‐free
destination for children and adults alike, and to enhance each neighborhood’s quality of
life. They shall be knitted into the neighborhood fabric as a focal point in the
neighborhood, to add vitality and allow for greater surveillance by surrounding homes,
local streets and visitors. Each park should be accessible by vehicle, foot, and bicycle and
there should be a park within a quarter‐mile of every home.
(2) Specific Standards. The following park development guidelines are applicable in the SEQ‐
NRT, SEQ‐NR, SEQ‐VR, and SEQ‐VC districts:
a. Distribution and Amount of Parks:
i. A range of parks and open space should be distributed through the SEQ to
meet a variety of needs including children’s play, passive enjoyment of the
outdoors, and active recreation.
See discussion under SEQ Criterion 9.06B above.
ii. Parks should serve as the focus for neighborhoods and be located at the
heart of residential areas, served by public streets and fronted by
development.
The Board found this criterion met at preliminary plat. Staff considers no
changes affecting compliance with this criterion have been made.
iii. Parks should be provided at a rate of 7.5 acres of developed parkland per
1,000 population per the South Burlington Capital Budget and Program.
The Board found this criterion met at preliminary plat. Staff considers no
changes affecting compliance with this criterion have been made.
iv. A neighborhood or mini park of 10,000 square feet or more should be
provided within a one‐quarter mile walk of every home not so served by
an existing City park or other publicly‐owned developed recreation area.
The Board found this criterion met at preliminary plat. Staff considers no
changes affecting compliance with this criterion have been made.
b. Dedication of Parks and Open Space: Parks and protected open space must be
approved by City Council for public ownership or management, or maintained
permanently by a homeowners’ association in a form acceptable to the City
Attorney.
At preliminary plat, the Board required the applicant to submit a draft of the
homeowners’ association agreement describing the management of open spaces as part
of the final plat application, which clarifies which if any of the proposed open spaces are
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proposed to be public and which are proposed to be maintained by the homeowners’
association.
17. The provided homeowners’ association documents state that the open space parcels
are common elements which will be owned and shared by members of the HOA. It
does not appear the pedestrian easement to be dedicated to the City within the NRP
zoning district is explicitly excluded. Staff recommends the Board require the
applicant to exclude the pedestrian easement to be dedicated to the City from the
common elements.
c. Design Guidelines
i. Parks should be fronted by homes and/or retail development in order to
make them sociable, safe and attractive places.
ii. Parks should be located along prominent pedestrian and bicycle
connections.
iii. To the extent feasible, single‐loaded roads should be utilized adjacent to
natural open spaces to define a clear transition between the private and
public realm, and to reinforce dedicated open space as a natural resource
and not extended yard areas.
The Board found this criterion met at preliminary plat. Staff considers no changes
affecting compliance with this criterion have been made.
9.08 SEQ‐NR Sub‐District; Specific Standards
The SEQ‐NR sub‐district has additional dimensional and design requirements, as enumerated in this
Section.
A. Street, Block and Lot Pattern
(1) Development blocks. Development block lengths should range between 300 and 500
linear feet. If it is unavoidable, blocks 500 feet or longer must include mid‐block public
sidewalk or recreation path connections.
At preliminary plat, the Board found the finds the designed functionality of the mid‐block
public sidewalk and recreation path connections exceeded the minimum of this criterion.
Staff considers no changes affecting compliance with this criterion have been made.
(2) Interconnection of Streets
(a) Average spacing between intersections shall be 300 to 500 feet.
The Board found this criterion met at preliminary plat. Staff considers no changes
affecting compliance with this criterion have been made.
(b) Dead end streets (e.g. culs de sac) that are not constructed to an adjacent
parcel to allow for a future connection are strongly discouraged. Such dead
end streets shall not exceed 200 feet in length.
The Board found this criterion met at preliminary plat. Staff considers no changes
affecting compliance with this criterion have been made.
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(3) Lot ratios. Lots shall maintain a minimum lot width to depth ratio of 1:2, with a ratio
of 1:2.5 to 1:5 recommended
See discussion under 9.07 above.
B. Street, Sidewalk & Parking Standards
(1) Street dimensions and cross sections. Neighborhood streets (collector and local) are
intended to be low‐speed streets for local use that discourage through movement and
are safe for pedestrians and bicyclists.
The Board found this criterion met at preliminary plat. The applicant has, at the request of
the Fire Inspector as discussed above under PUD criterion #7, widened Bellflower Court to
20‐feet from 18‐feet. No other changes affecting compliance with this criterion have been
made. Staff considers this criterion to be met.
(2) Sidewalks.
(a) Sidewalks must be a minimum of five feet (5’) in width with an additional
minimum five‐foot planting strip (greenspace) separating the sidewalk from
the street.
(b) Sidewalks are required on one side of the street.
The Board found this criterion met at preliminary plat. Staff considers no changes
affecting compliance with this criterion have been made.
(3) Street Trees
(a) Street trees are required along all streets in a planting strip a minimum of five
feet wide.
(b) Street tress shall be large, deciduous shade trees with species satisfactory to
the City Arborist. Street trees to be planted must have a minimum caliper size
of 2.5 to 3 inches DBH, and shall be planted no greater than thirty feet (30’) on
center.
As discussed above, the City Arborist provided comments on the final plat
application which have been addressed. Staff considers this criterion met.
(4) On‐street parking. Sufficient space for one lane of on‐street parking shall be provided
on all streets except for arterials outside of the SEQ‐VC and SEQ‐VR sub‐districts. This
requirement may be waived within the SEQ‐NRN sub‐district provided the DRB finds
sufficient off‐street parking has been provided to accommodate the parking needs of
the uses adjacent to the street.
The Board preliminarily found this criterion met at preliminary plat. Staff considers no
changes affecting compliance with this criterion have been made.
(5) Intersection Design. Intersections shall be designed to reduce pedestrian crossing
distances and to slow traffic.
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At preliminary plat, the Board required the applicant to work with the fire department to
assure emergency vehicle access while meeting this standard prior to final plat approval.
The applicant has provided a vehicle turning movement plan using the City fire truck
template.
18. The Fire Chief reviewed the plan on October 8, 2019 and requested verbally that the
applicant make minor modifications to the driveway entrance to the multifamily
homes on Nowland Farm Road to allow a fire truck to better make the turn, and to
add no parking signs along the central section of the driveway to the rear of the units.
Staff recommends the Board require the applicant to comply with the Fire Chief’s
request.
(6) Street and sidewalk lighting. Pedestrian‐scaled light fixtures (e.g., 12’ to 14’) shall be
provided sufficient to ensure pedestrian safety traveling to and from public spaces.
Overall illumination levels should be consistent with the lower‐intensity development
patterns and character of the SEQ, with lower, smoother levels of illumination (rather
than hot‐spots) and trespass minimized to the lowest level consistent with public
safety.
At preliminary plat, proposed fixtures were mounted at a 13‐foot pole height and
concentrated around pedestrian crossings. The Board found the overall illumination
levels appropriate for the lower intensity development patterns and character of the SEQ
with minimum trespass.
Minor modifications to the lighting plan have been made since preliminary plat approval.
Specifically, the applicant has removed one fixture from the driveway on Nowland Farm
Road, and one fixture at the entrance to the open space across from Unit 91.
19. Staff recommends the Board review the proposed lighting at the entrances to the
interior open spaces and make a determination on whether lighting should be
provided. Staff does not consider the change at the driveway on Nowland Farm Rd to
be detrimental. This comment also applies to the SEQ‐VR sub‐district.
C. Residential Design
(1) Building Orientation. Residential buildings must be oriented to the street. Primary
entries for single family and multi‐family buildings must face the street. Secondary building
entries may open onto garages and/or parking areas. (Special design guidelines apply to
arterial streets; see Section 9.11). A minimum of thirty‐five percent (35%) of translucent
windows and surfaces should be oriented to the south. In the SEQ‐NRN sub‐district,
residential buildings should orient their rooflines to maximize solar gain potential, to the
extent possible within the context of the overall standards of the regulating plan.
At preliminary plat, the Board granted that for buildings where the side is oriented to the
south, only 20% of the translucent windows must be located on the south facing wall, and
found the applicant must submit sufficient information to allow translucence criteria to be
evaluated by the administrative officer at the time of zoning permit application. Staff
recommends the Board include this as a condition of final plat approval as well.
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(2) Building Façades. Building facades are encouraged to employ a theme and variation
approach. Buildings should include common elements to appear unified, but façades should
be varied from one building to the next to avoid monotony. Front porches, stoops, and
balconies that create semi‐private space and are oriented to the street are encouraged.
See discussion of building elevations under Site Plan Review standard above.
(3) Front Building Setbacks. A close relationship between the building and the street is
critical to the ambiance of the street environment.
(a) Buildings should be set back a maximum of twenty‐five feet (25’) from the back
of sidewalk.
(b) Porches, stoops, and balconies may project up to eight feet (8’) into the front
setbacks.
The Board found this criterion met at preliminary plat. Staff considers no changes
affecting compliance with this criterion have been made.
(4) Placement of Garages and Parking. For garages with a vehicle entrance that faces a
front lot line, the facade of the garage that includes the vehicle entrance must be set back
a minimum of eight feet (8’) behind the building line of the single or two‐family dwelling.
(a) For the purposes of this subsection:
(i) The building width of a single or two‐family dwelling, not including the garage,
shall be no less than twelve feet (12’), except for a duplex with side‐by‐side primary
entries, in which case the building width of each dwelling unit in the duplex, not
including a garage, shall be no less than eight feet (8’)
(ii) The portion of the single or two‐family dwelling that is nearest the front lot line
may be a covered, usable porch, so long as the porch is no less than eight feet (8’)
wide.
The Board found this criterion met at preliminary plat. Staff considers no changes
affecting compliance with this criterion have been made.
(b) …
(c) Rear alleys are encouraged for small lot single‐family houses, duplexes and
townhouses.
The Board found this criterion met at preliminary plat. Staff considers no changes
affecting compliance with this criterion have been made.
(d) Mix of Housing Styles. A mix of housing styles (i.e. ranch, cape cod, colonial,
etc.), sizes, and affordability is encouraged within neighborhoods and developments.
These should be mixed within blocks, along the street and within neighborhoods rather
than compartmentalized into sections of near‐identical units.
The Board found this criterion met at preliminary plat. Staff considers no changes
affecting compliance with this criterion have been made. This comment also applies to
the SEQ‐VR sub‐district.
#SD‐19‐27
19
9.09 SEQ‐VR Sub‐District; Specific Standards
The SEQ‐VR sub‐district has additional dimensional and design requirements, as enumerated in this
Section.
A. Street, Block and Lot Pattern
(1) Development blocks. Development block lengths should range between 300 and 400
linear feet; see Figure 9‐2 for example. If longer block lengths are unavoidable blocks
400 feet or longer must include mid‐block public sidewalk or recreation path
connections.
See comments under Section 9.08 SEQ‐NR standards above. Staff this criterion met.
(2) Interconnection of Streets
(a) Average spacing between intersections shall be 300 to 500 feet.
See comments under Section 9.08 SEQ‐NR standards above. Staff considers this
criterion met.
(b) Dead end streets (e.g. cul de sac or hammer‐head) that are not constructed to
an adjacent parcel to allow for a future connection are strongly discouraged.
Such dead end streets shall not exceed 200 feet in length.
The Board found this criterion met at preliminary plat. Staff considers no changes
affecting compliance with this criterion have been made.
(3) Lot ratios. Lots shall maintain a minimum lot width to depth ratio of 1:2, with a ratio of
1:2.5 to 1:5 recommended.
Buildings in the SEQ‐VR sub‐district are proposed to be on one lot and therefore at
preliminary plat the Board found the lot ratio described in this criterion, intended for
single family home lots, to be not applicable.
B. Street, Sidewalk & Parking Standards
(1) Street dimensions and cross sections. Neighborhood streets (collector and local) in the
VR sub‐district are intended to be low‐speed streets for local use that discourage
through movement and are safe for pedestrians and bicyclists.
See comments under Section 9.08 SEQ‐NR standards above. Staff considers this criterion
met.
(2) Sidewalks
(a) Sidewalks must be a minimum of five feet (5’) in width with an additional
minimum five‐foot planting strip (greenspace) separating the sidewalk from the
street.
(b) Sidewalks are required on one side of the street, and must be connected in a
pattern that promotes walkability throughout the development. The DRB may
in its discretion require supplemental sidewalk segments to achieve this
purpose.
#SD‐19‐27
20
See comments under Section 9.08 SEQ‐NR standards above. Staff considers these criteria
met.
(3) Street Trees; see Section 9.08(B)(3)
See comments under Section 9.08 SEQ‐NR standards above.
(4) On‐street parking; see Section 9.08(B)(4).
See comments under Section 9.08 SEQ‐NR standards above.
(5) Intersection design. Intersections shall be designed to reduce pedestrian crossing
distances and to slow traffic; see Figure 9‐6 and Section 9.08(B)(5).
See comments under Section 9.08 SEQ‐NR standards above.
(6) Street and sidewalk lighting. Pedestrian‐scaled light fixtures (e.g., 12’ to 14’) shall be
provided sufficient to ensure pedestrian safety traveling to and from public spaces.
Overall illumination levels should be consistent with the lower‐intensity development
patterns and character of the SEQ, with lower, smoother levels of illumination (rather
than hot‐spots) and trespass minimized to the lowest level consistent with public safety.
See comments under Section 9.08 SEQ‐NR standards above.
C. Residential Design
(1) Building Orientation. Residential buildings must be oriented to the street. Primary
entries for single family and multi‐family buildings must face the street. Secondary
building entries may open onto garages and/or parking areas. (Special design
guidelines apply to arterial streets).
See discussion under Site Plan Review standard above.
(2) Building Façades. Building facades are encouraged to employ a theme and variation
approach. Buildings should include common elements to appear unified, but façades
should be varied from one building to the next to avoid monotony. Front porches,
stoops, and balconies that create semi‐private space and are oriented to the street are
encouraged.
See comments under Section 9.08 SEQ‐NR standards above.
(3) Front Building Setbacks. In pedestrian districts, a close relationship between the
building and the street is critical to the ambiance of the street environment.
(a) Buildings should be set back fifteen feet (15’) from the back of sidewalk.
The Board found this criterion met at preliminary plat. Staff considers no changes
affecting compliance with this criterion have been made.
#SD‐19‐27
21
(b) Porches, stoops, and balconies may project up to eight feet (8’) into the front
setbacks. Porch, stoop and balcony areas within the front setback shall not be
enclosed or weatherized with glazing or other solid materials.
Within the SEQ‐VR, porches are proposed to project into the setback by
approximately 6‐feet. The Board found this criterion met at preliminary plat.
Staff considers no changes affecting compliance with this criterion have been
made.
(4) Placement of Garages and Parking. See Section 9.08(C)(4) and Figure 9‐7.
Section 9.08C(4) does not apply to multi‐family homes. Site Plan general review standard
B addresses parking for multi‐family buildings and is addressed above.
(5) Mix of Housing Styles. A mix of housing styles (i.e. ranch, cape cod, colonial, etc.), sizes,
and affordability is encouraged within neighborhoods and developments. These should
be mixed within blocks, along the street and within neighborhoods rather than
compartmentalized into sections of near‐identical units.
See comments under Section 9.08 SEQ‐NR standards above.
E. SURFACE WATER PROTECTION STANDARDS
Section 12.02 Wetland Protection Standards apply to all lands within 50‐feet of a wetland.
(1) Consistent with the purposes of this Section, encroachment into wetlands and buffer areas
is generally discouraged.
(2) Encroachment into Class II wetlands is permitted by the City only in conjunction with
issuance of a Conditional Use Determination (CUD) by the Vermont Department of Environmental
Conservation and positive findings by the DRB pursuant to the criteria in (3) below.
(3) Encroachment into Class II wetland buffers, Class III wetlands and Class III wetland buffers,
may be permitted by the DRB upon finding that the proposed project’s overall development, erosion
control, stormwater treatment system, provisions for stream buffering, and landscaping plan
achieve the following standards for wetland protection:
The applicant is proposing one wetland crossing and has provided documentation of communication
with the US Army Corps of Engineers and State Wetlands program indicating they are generally
supportive of the applicant’s proposed configuration as long as the existing driveway crossing is
removed and the remaining wetlands and buffers are demarcated and set aside as no mow zones,
which they are on the provided plans. The applicant is also proposing a small amount of
encroachment into Class III wetland buffers which are not regulated by either the State or the US
Army Corps of Engineers.
i. The encroachment(s) will not adversely affect the ability of the property to carry or store
flood waters adequately;
At preliminary plat, the Board found the required stream alteration permit will result in
compliance with this criterion and found the Applicant must demonstrate that they have obtained
#SD‐19‐27
22
that permit prior to issuance of the first zoning permit for the Project. Staff recommends the
Board incorporate this as a condition of final plat approval.
(b) The encroachment(s) will not adversely affect the ability of the proposed stormwater
treatment system to reduce sedimentation according to state standards;
The Stormwater Services Division has reviewed the proposed plans and has not expressed any
concern about this criterion. The Board found this criterion met at preliminary plat. Staff
considers no changes affecting compliance with this criterion have been made.
(c) The impact of the encroachment(s) on the specific wetland functions and values
identified in the field delineation and wetland report is minimized and/or offset by appropriate
landscaping, stormwater treatment, stream buffering, and/or other mitigation measures.
At preliminary plat, the Board found the Applicant must obtain their State wetland permit prior
to issuance of the first zoning permit for the Project. Staff recommends the Board incorporate
this as a condition of final plat approval.
Section 12.03 Stormwater Management Standards apply to projects generating greater than one‐
half acre of impervious surfaces are proposed.
Compliance with the City’s Stormwater Management Standards is discussed under Planned Unit
Development Standards above.
F. ENERGY STANDARDS
All new buildings are subject to the Stretch Energy Code pursuant to Section 3.15: Residential and
Commercial Building Energy Standards of the LDRs.
G. PROJECT & INFRASTRUCTURE PHASING AND BONDING
The Applicant proposes to apply for a Phase I zoning permit within 1‐year, following the issuance of
all State and Local approvals, and all appeals have been exhausted. Following the start of the warranty
period for the Phase I roadway, a zoning permit will be applied for within 5‐years for the Phase II
roadway. Following the start of the warranty period for the Phase II roadway, a zoning permit will be
applied for within 5‐years for the Phase III roadway. Following the start of the warranty period for
the Phase III roadway, a zoning permit will be applied for within 5‐years for the Phase IV roadway. A
zoning permit for Phase XX may be applied for at any time during the 4 phases of the project, due to
the lack of public infrastructure.
Staff considers the applicants proposed timeline to not be adequately connected to dates, as there is
no limit for how long the applicant may take between requesting the first zoning permit and the start
of the warranty period for the roadway.
20. Staff recommends the Board discuss with the applicant a timeline that provides a final date for
application for the roadways in the final phase. If the applicant does not meet the agreed upon
timeline, Staff recommends the Board include a condition requiring the applicant to reapply for
final plat approval for any of the phases which have not yet been issued their first zoning permit.
#SD‐19‐27
23
21. Staff recommends the Board require the applicants proposed timeline include a maximum number
of units which can be built prior to completion of the amenitized open spaces (ie the playground,
the basketball court, and the trail network)
Staff notes that the proposed phasing results in a second entry point to the development prior to 50
units being constructed, and it precludes the construction of dead‐end streets, so compliance with
15.12J is not a concern.
The applicant has requested in their application narrative that they would like to provide a detailed
estimate of public infrastructure cost immediately prior to the construction of each proposed roadway
segment in lieu of having bonding amounts set at final plat.
22. Staff recommends the Board evaluate the applicant’s request to have infrastructure bond amounts
set at the time of zoning permit application for each phase or roadway, as discussed in the
following staff comment. Should the Board wish to grant the applicants’ request, and in order to
reduce conflicts at time of zoning permit application, Staff recommends the Board establish
bonding amounts for each phase or roadway, and provide a condition which allows the zoning
administrator to adjust bonding amounts based on updated costs. The applicants’ estimated
infrastructure costs are below.
#SD‐19‐27
24
23. Staff further recommends the Board ask the applicant if their intent in discussing roadway segments
individually (rather than phases as a whole) is to ask for a certificate of occupancy (CO) for each
roadway segment. Staff considers that without an affirmative decision of the Board to consider each
roadway segment, the Zoning Administrator may only issue a CO for entire phases. If the applicant
wishes to receive COs for less than entire phases of infrastructure, Staff recommends the Board require
them to provide a specific bonding/CO phasing for discussion. Staff notes the applicants preliminarily
approved phasing provides excellent access and open space distribution, and suggests that should the
applicant request smaller bonding phases, those factors be taken into consideration.
H. Homeowners Association Declaration and Bylaws
The applicant has submitted the proposed homeowners’ association declaration and bylaws as part
of their application package. Staff considers it appears the only relevant information to the DRB’s
decision in those documents are the elements relating to open space maintenance, including wetlands
and wetland buffers.
24. Staff considers the applicant may amend other elements of the homeowners’ association documents
without City review or approval, and therefore instead recommends the open space management plan
be the subject of a separate Notice of Conditions to be recorded.
RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends that the applicant work with Staff and the Development Review Board to address the
issues identified herein.
Respectfully submitted,
____________________________________
Marla Keene, Development Review Planner
SD‐19‐27
1505 Dorset Street
Dorset Meadows
Packet for 10/15/2019 Hearing
Table of Contents
Principal Application Documents
Civil Plans
Architectural Drawings
Applicant Cover Letters in Chronological Order
List of Requested Waivers
Design Narrative
Supporting Application Documents
Fire Truck Turning Movement Plan
Landscaping Budget
Street Tree Cost Estimate
Rare, Threatened & Endangered Species Report
Green Mountain Power ability‐to‐serve letter
Vermont Gas ability‐to‐serve letter
Preliminary Wastewater allocation
TDR Option Agreements
Materials Supplied by Others
Public Comment Letters
1
Marla Keene
From:Bryan Currier <bcurrier@olearyburke.com>
Sent:Thursday, August 22, 2019 3:29 PM
To:Marla Keene
Cc:Peter K
Subject:RE: 1505 Dorset St final plat completeness
Attachments:Waiver List 8-9-19.pdf
Good Afternoon Marla
Please see attached and below in red for the additional information. If possible, we would like to be scheduled for the
September 17th hearing.
1. As discussed with Bryan, arch plans lack preparation/revision date. It would be helpful for everyone in the long
run if they also had a title block so the decision could reference the exact approved plan list.
Please download the submitted building elevations that now have a title block and date from the following dropbox
link. They also all have the revision date of 7‐17‐19, so you can refer to them as a single building elevation plan set. Do
you need hard copies of these? Or can we submit them as the “approved plan set” as a condition of approval?
https://www.dropbox.com/sh/fuphq0kc3kwbom8/AADydxjXKtrhoMezZewPJcdEa?dl=0
2. Perhaps I missed this in the package? A list of requested waivers is required.
Please see attached for the waiver list associated with the project. At this time, the list of waivers is the same as the
ones approved under the Master Plan and Preliminary Plat.
3. It is to your benefit to request a phasing schedule for the zoning permit for each phase of roadways, otherwise
the Board will determine one for you.
The Applicant proposes to apply for a Phase I zoning permit within 1‐year, following the issuance of all State and Local
approvals, and all appeals have been exhausted. Following the start of the warranty period for the Phase I roadway, a
zoning permit will be applied for within 5‐years for the Phase II roadway. Following the start of the warranty period for
the Phase II roadway, a zoning permit will be applied for within 5‐years for the Phase III roadway. Following the start of
the warranty period for the Phase III roadway, a zoning permit will be applied for within 5‐years for the Phase IV
roadway. A zoning permit for Phase XX may be applied for at any time during the 4 phases of the project, due to the
lack of public infrastructure.
4. I need to look into whether we need monuments to have coordinates. Can you let me know if this is something
you already have?
We will submit a DXF of the existing and proposed project property lines as a condition of approval. The DXF will be on
State Plane and will contain the coordinates of all monumentation.
5. Dumpster screening description of type or, alternatively, a detail, is needed
Please refer to SH 205 – Landscape Details & Typical Lots for the dumpster screening detail.
2
6. Can you please describe the level of detail known about the shown utility cabinets? We’ve had some recent
trouble with utility cabinets not being adequately planned for in terms of setbacks, street trees, screening, and
need assurance that the required cabinets can be accommodated
Please refer to SH 205 – Landscape Details & Typical Lots for the utility cabinet screening details. Please refer to SH
L201, SH L202, SH 3, SH 4 and SH PL1. For this project GMP required a 10’ utility easement outside of the proposed
right‐of‐way for the main underground power line and primary utility cabinets. As the street trees are located within the
right‐or‐way the power layout should not conflict with the street tree placement.
Please let us know if you have any questions.
Thanks,
Bryan Currier, PE
O'Leary‐Burke Civil Associates
13 Corporate Drive | Essex Jct., VT 05452
p: (802)878‐9990
bcurrier@olearyburke.com
From: Marla Keene [mailto:mkeene@sburl.com]
Sent: Wednesday, August 21, 2019 5:05 PM
To: Bryan Currier; Peter K
Subject: 1505 Dorset St final plat completeness
Peter, Bryan,
I’ve reviewed the Dorset Meadows application for completeness and note the following items are required in order to
be eligible for scheduling. All told, the application is pretty close to complete. At this time I can still put it on the
schedule for September 17 if you can get me the required materials by Friday. The Board would be down to a bare
quorum if it goes to Oct 1.
Application Requirement Project‐specific notes
Date, true north arrow and scale (numerical and
graphic). The preferred scale shall be not more
than one hundred (100) feet to the inch, or not
more than sixty (60) feet to the inch where lots
have less than one hundred (100) feet of
frontage.
As discussed with Bryan, arch plans lack
preparation/revision date. It would be helpful for
everyone in the long run if they also had a title
block so the decision could reference the exact
approved plan list.
List of waivers the applicant desires from the
requirements of these regulations and
accompanying narrative describing the
request(s), detailing the City's authority to grant
the request(s) and describing why the waiver(s)
should be granted
Perhaps I missed this in the package? A list of
requested waivers is required.
Estimated project construction schedule, phasing,
and date of completion, and estimated cost of all
site improvements. (note: for FBC subdivisions,
only public infrastructure information required)
It is to your benefit to request a phasing schedule
for the zoning permit for each phase of
roadways, otherwise the Board will determine
one for you.
3
Permanent reference monuments I need to look into whether we need monuments
to have coordinates. Can you let me know if this
is something you already have?
The location of any outdoor storage for
equipment and materials if any, and the location,
type and design of all solid waste‐related
facilities, including dumpsters and recycling bins.
Dumpster screening description of type or,
alternatively, a detail, is needed
The location and details of all the improvements
and utilities, including the location of all utility
poles, utility cabinets, sewage disposal systems,
water supply systems, and all details and
locations of the stormwater management
system.
Can you please describe the level of detail known
about the shown utility cabinets? We’ve had
some recent trouble with utility cabinets not
being adequately planned for in terms of
setbacks, street trees, screening, and need
assurance that the required cabinets can be
accommodated
Sincerely,
Marla Keene, PE
Development Review Planner
City of South Burlington
575 Dorset Street
South Burlington, VT 05403
(802) 846‐4106
www.southburlingtonvt.gov
Notice - Under Vermont’s Public Records Act, all e-mail, e-mail attachments as well as paper copies of documents received or prepared for use in matters
concerning City business, concerning a City official or staff, or containing information relating to City business are likely to be regarded as public records which
may be inspected by any person upon request, unless otherwise made confidential by law. If you have received this message in error, please notify us immediately by
return email. Thank you for your cooperation.
Waiver List – Dorset Meadows Final Plat 8-9-19
- DIMENSION AND COVERAGE: See table below.
SEQ-NR Required SEQ-VR Required Waiver Request
Min Lot Size Single
Family 12,000 SF 12,000 SF 4,600 SF
Min Lot Size Two
Family 24,000 SF 24,000 SF N/A
Min Lot Size Multi
Family 40,000 SF 40,000 SF N/A
Max Building Coverage 15% 15% 30%
Max Overall Coverage 30% 30% 45%
Min Front Setback 20’ 20’ 15’
Min Side Setback,
Single and Two-family 10’ 10’ 5’
Min Side Setback
Multi-family 20’ 20’ N/A
Min Rear Setback 30’ 30’ N/A
Max Building Height
Single or Two-Family 28’ 28’ N/A
Max Building Height
Multiple Family 28’ 35’ N/A
Stories facing Street,
Single and Tow-Family 2 2 N/A
Stories below roofline,
Single and Two-Family 2 3 N/A
- ADJUSTMENT OF PRECONSTRUCTION GRADE: Please refer to SH 5 – SH 8 of
the plan set for the designated preconstruction grade requested for each of
the 154 units throughout the development. The preconstruction grade was
determined to be approximately 2-4 feet above the proposed roadway.
- LOT RATIOS: The lot width to depth ratio of 1:2 shall be met on an average
basis.
- ZONING DISTRICT BOUNDARIES: Shifting NRP/NR zoning boundary 50’ in
accordance with Section 15.03(C), as shown on SH EX2.
- PHASING: The Applicant proposes to apply for a Phase I zoning permit within
1-year, following the issuance of all State and Local approvals, and all appeals
have been exhausted. Following the start of the warranty period for the
Phase I roadway, a zoning permit will be applied for within 5-years for the
Phase II roadway. Following the start of the warranty period for the Phase II
roadway, a zoning permit will be applied for within 5-years for the Phase III
roadway. Following the start of the warranty period for the Phase III
roadway, a zoning permit will be applied for within 5-years for the Phase IV
roadway. A zoning permit for Phase XX may be applied for at any time during
the 4 phases of the project, due to the lack of public infrastructure.
T.J. Boyle Associates | 301 College Street • Burlington VT 05401 | www.tjboyle.com
DORSET MEADOWS ‐ LANDSCAPE BUDGET
Total Building Construction or
Building Improvement Costs
Landscape Percent of Total
Construction / Improvement Cost
Cost of Proposed Project
$0 - $250,000 3% $7,500
Next $250,000 2% $5,000
Additional over $500,000 1% $138,387
Total Minimum Landscaping* $150,887
*Project cost used to calculate the landscape budget is $14,058,750, which includes construction of 24 duplexes ($220,00
per unit), 35 townhomes ($150,000 per unit), and 6,925 L.F. of roadway ($550/L.F).
OPINION OF POTENTIAL LANDSCAPING COST
Total Buildings Cost per Building Total Potential Cost
Typical Duplex Foundation
Planting
12
$1,500 $18,000
Typical 5 Unit Townhouse
Foundation Planting
4
$2,500 $10,000
Typical 4 Unit Townhouse
Foundation Planting
3 $2,100 $6,300
Typical 3 Unit Townhouse
Foundation Planting
1 $1,600 $1,600
Townhome Surrounding
Area Plantings
- - $82,000
Duplex Surrounding Area
Plantings
$33,500
Total: $151,400
ADDITIONAL POTENTIAL LANDSCAPING COSTS
Street Trees (Total Site) $233,500
Other Greenspace Areas and
Stormwater Pond Buffer Areas
$103,000
Wetland Buffer Planting Areas (Total
Site)
$37,200
Small Typical Single Family Lot (per
unit)
$2,100
Large Typical Single Family Lot (per
unit)
$2,700
Qty. Code Scientific Name Common Name Size Spec Remarks Notes wholesale installed
9 AxFC ACER x freemanii 'Celebration' Celebration Maple 2-1/2" cal. B&B 251.00$ 5,647.50$
9 AxFS ACER x freemanii 'Sienna' Sienna Glen Maple 2-1/2" cal. B&B 251.00$ 5,647.50$
2 AxGR AMELANCHIER x grandiflora 'Robin Hill' Robin Hill Serviceberry 2-1/2" cal. B&B single stem 290.00$ 1,450.00$
7 BNH BETULA nigra 'Heritage' Heritage River Birch 2-1/2" cal. B&B tree form 238.00$ 4,165.00$
3 CCG CRATAEGUS crus-galli var. inermis 'Crusader' Crusader Hawthorn 2-1/2" cal. B&B tree form 300.00$ 2,250.00$
14 CO CELTIS occidentalis Common Hackberry 2-1/2" cal. B&B 220.00$ 7,700.00$
6 GBAG GINKGO biloba 'Autumn Gold' Autumn Gold Ginkgo 2-1/2" cal. B&B 295.00$ 4,425.00$
21 GTH GLEDITSIA tricanthos 'Halka' Halka Honeylocust 2-1/2" cal. B&B 238.00$ 12,495.00$
8 MAS MAACKIA amurensis 'Summertime' Summertime Amur Maacki 2-1/2" cal. B&B 315.00$ 6,300.00$
6 PCCS PYRUS calleryana 'Cleveland Select' Cleveland Select Pear 2-1/2" cal. B&B 222.00$ 3,330.00$
3 PO PLATANUS occidentalis American Sycamore 2-1/2" cal. B&B 251.00$ 1,882.50$
7 SRI SYRINGA reticulata 'Ivory Silk' Ivory Silk Tree Lilac 2-1/2" cal. B&B 250.00$ 4,375.00$
6 UA ULMUS japonica x wilsoniana 'Accolade' Accolade Elm 2-1/2" cal. B&B 230.00$ 3,450.00$
11 UT ULMUS japonica x wilsoniana 'Triumph' Triumph Elm 2-1/2" cal. B&B 230.00$ 6,325.00$
10 ZS ZELKOVA serrata 'Green Vase' Green Vase Zelkova 2-1/2" cal. B&B 230.00$ 5,750.00$
122 Total: 75,192.50$
Qty. Code Scientific Name Common Name Size Spec Remarks Notes wholesale installed
5 AxGR AMELANCHIER x grandiflora 'Robin Hill' Robin Hill Serviceberry 2-1/2" cal. B&B single stem 290.00$ 3,625.00$
5 CCG CRATAEGUS crus-galli var. inermis 'Crusader' Crusader Hawthorn 2-1/2" cal. B&B tree form 300.00$ 3,750.00$
3 CO CELTIS occidentalis Common Hackberry 2-1/2" cal. B&B 220.00$ 1,650.00$
10 GBAG GINKGO biloba 'Autumn Gold' Autumn Gold Ginkgo 2-1/2" cal. B&B 295.00$ 7,375.00$
3 GTH GLEDITSIA tricanthos 'Halka' Halka Honeylocust 2-1/2" cal. B&B 238.00$ 1,785.00$
8 PCCS PYRUS calleryana 'Cleveland Select' Cleveland Select Pear 2-1/2" cal. B&B 222.00$ 4,440.00$
11 PO PLATANUS occidentalis American Sycamore 2-1/2" cal. B&B 251.00$ 6,902.50$
6 SRI SYRINGA reticulata 'Ivory Silk' Ivory Silk Tree Lilac 2-1/2" cal. B&B 250.00$ 3,750.00$
14 PSG PRUNUS sargentii Sargent Cherry 2-1/2" cal. B&B 251.00$ 8,785.00$
7 UA ULMUS japonica x wilsoniana 'Accolade' Accolade Elm 2-1/2" cal. B&B 230.00$ 4,025.00$
13 UT ULMUS japonica x wilsoniana 'Triumph' Triumph Elm 2-1/2" cal. B&B 230.00$ 7,475.00$
9 ZS ZELKOVA serrata 'Green Vase' Green Vase Zelkova 2-1/2" cal. B&B 230.00$ 5,175.00$
94 Total: 58,737.50$
Qty. Code Scientific Name Common Name Size Spec Remarks Notes wholesale installed
4 AxFC ACER x freemanii 'Celebration' Celebration Maple 2-1/2" cal. B&B 251.00$ 2,510.00$
5 AxFS ACER x freemanii 'Sienna' Sienna Glen Maple 2-1/2" cal. B&B 251.00$ 3,137.50$
15 BNH BETULA nigra 'Heritage' Heritage River Birch 2-1/2" cal. B&B tree form 238.00$ 8,925.00$
8 CO CELTIS occidentalis Common Hackberry 2-1/2" cal. B&B 220.00$ 4,400.00$
4 GBAG GINKGO biloba 'Autumn Gold' Autumn Gold Ginkgo 2-1/2" cal. B&B 295.00$ 2,950.00$
16 GTH GLEDITSIA tricanthos 'Halka' Halka Honeylocust 2-1/2" cal. B&B 238.00$ 9,520.00$
5 NS NYSSA sylvatica Black Tupelo 2-1/2" cal. B&B 275.00$ 3,437.50$
5 PCCS PYRUS calleryana 'Cleveland Select' Cleveland Select Pear 2-1/2" cal. B&B 222.00$ 2,775.00$
6 PSG PRUNUS sargentii Sargent Cherry 2-1/2" cal. B&B 251.00$ 3,765.00$
2 QM QUERCUS macrocarpa Bur Oak 2-1/2" cal. B&B 251.00$ 1,255.00$
7 UA ULMUS japonica x wilsoniana 'Accolade' Accolade Elm 2-1/2" cal. B&B 230.00$ 4,025.00$
4 UT ULMUS japonica x wilsoniana 'Triumph' Triumph Elm 2-1/2" cal. B&B 230.00$ 2,300.00$
5 ZS ZELKOVA serrata 'Green Vase' Green Vase Zelkova 2-1/2" cal. B&B 230.00$ 2,875.00$
86 Total: 51,875.00$
Qty. Code Scientific Name Common Name Size Spec Remarks Notes wholesale installed
2 AxFS ACER x freemanii 'Sienna' Sienna Glen Maple 2-1/2" cal. B&B 251.00$ 1,255.00$
6 BNH BETULA nigra 'Heritage' Heritage River Birch 2-1/2" cal. B&B tree form 238.00$ 3,570.00$
6 CO CELTIS occidentalis Common Hackberry 2-1/2" cal. B&B 220.00$ 3,300.00$
3 GBAG GINKGO biloba 'Autumn Gold' Autumn Gold Ginkgo 2-1/2" cal. B&B 295.00$ 2,212.50$
3 GTH GLEDITSIA tricanthos 'Halka' Halka Honeylocust 2-1/2" cal. B&B 238.00$ 1,785.00$
4 NS NYSSA sylvatica Black Tupelo 2-1/2" cal. B&B 275.00$ 2,750.00$
7 PCCS PYRUS calleryana 'Cleveland Select' Cleveland Select Pear 2-1/2" cal. B&B 222.00$ 3,885.00$
3 PO PLATANUS occidentalis American Sycamore 2-1/2" cal. B&B 251.00$ 1,882.50$
9 PSG PRUNUS sargentii Sargent Cherry 2-1/2" cal. B&B 251.00$ 5,647.50$
4 QM QUERCUS macrocarpa Bur Oak 2-1/2" cal. B&B 251.00$ 2,510.00$
12 UA ULMUS japonica x wilsoniana 'Accolade' Accolade Elm 2-1/2" cal. B&B 230.00$ 6,900.00$
4 ZS ZELKOVA serrata 'Green Vase' Green Vase Zelkova 2-1/2" cal. B&B 230.00$ 2,300.00$
63 Total: 37,997.50$
Street Trees
Planting Schedule - Street Trees Phase 3
Street Trees
Planting Schedule - Street Trees Phase 4
Street Trees
Dorset Meadows Planting Plan
Prepared by T. J. Boyle Associates
Planting Schedule - Street Trees Phase 1
Street Trees
Planting Schedule - Street Trees Phase 2
Gilman & Briggs Environmental, Inc.
1 Conti Circle, Suite 5
Barre, Vermont 05641
Tel: (802) 479-7480; FAX: (802) 476-7018
team@gbevt.com
DORSET MEADOWS RARE, THREATENED & ENDANGERED
SPECIES INVESTIGATION
A search for rare, threatened or endangered species was conducted at the Dorset Meadows project area
on 15 July 2019 by Arthur Gilman and Errol Briggs of Gilman & Briggs Environmental. Detailed
observations were made in the several vegetation communities, and a comprehensive list of all
observed vascular plants was made (See Table 1). In all, 148 plant species were noted. In addition, notes
were taken on wildlife species observed or heard.
VASCULAR PLANTS
Plant communities at the site consist of about 75% open land (hayfields and shallow marsh) and 20%
wooded. The marsh lies along a stream extending from Nowland Farm Road across the property, with
tributary swales draining from the east, to a small pond in the southeast corner. This wetland, covering
about 2.5 acres, is mostly shallow marsh.
The wooded areas include a fringe of trees along Dorset Street, a dense shrub thicket on the east side of
the small pond, and a forested area on high ground in the southwest part of the project site. This last
area includes a patch of dense woods north of the driveway and a park‐like stand of pines to the south.
No rare or uncommon species were noted, and therefore no species on the Vermont Threatened or
Endangered Species lists were found at the Dorset Meadows site.
Among the species of plants observed, there were seven that are considered invasive Class B Noxious
weeds on the Vermont Quarantine list:
Acer ginnala (Amur maple)
Celastrus orbiculatus (Oriental bittersweet)
Frangula alnus (Glossy buckthorn)
Lonicera morrowii (Morrow’s honeysuckle)
Lonicera tatarica (Tartarian honeysuckle)
Rhamnus cathartica (Common buckthorn)
Lythrum salicaria (Purple loosestrife)
TABLE 1. Vascular plant species at Dorset Meadows site, South Burlington
TREES, SHRUBS & VINES
Acer ginnala Amur maple INVASIVE Margin of western woodlot
Acer negundo Box‐elder Occasional in woodlines
Acer rubrum Red maple Occasional
Amelanchier sp. Shadbush Uncommon in western woodlot
Betula papyrifera Paper birch Uncommon in western woodlot
Carya cordiformis Bitternut hickory Occasional in western woodlot
Carya ovata Shagbark hickory Occasional in western woodlot
Celastrus orbiculatus Oriental bittersweet INVASIVE Common in western woodlot
Crataegus cf. pringlei Pringle’s hawthorn Occasional in thickets/hedgerow
Cornus amomum Silky dogwood Occasional in thickets
Cornus racemosa Gray dogwood Common
Corylus cornuta Beaked hazelnut Uncommon
Frangula alnus Glossy buckthorn INVASIVE Common in western woodlot
Fraxinus americana White ash Occasional
Fraxinus pennsylvanica Green ash Common in western woodlot
Juglans nigra Black walnut Locally common & spreading
Juniperus virginiana Red cedar Uncommon (beside pond)
Lonicera morrowii Morrow’s honeysuckle INVASIVE In western woodlot
Lonicera tatarica Tartarian honeysuckle INVASIVE Common in thickets
Malus pumila Apple Uncommon
Parthenocissus quinquefolia Virginia creeper Occasional
Pinus strobus White pine Common in western woodlot
Populus deltoides Cottonwood Along Dorset Street
Populus tremuloides Quaking aspen Occasional
Prunus serotina Black cherry Occasional
Prunus virginiana Choke cherry Uncommon in western woodlot
Pyrus communis Pear Common in western woodlot
Quercus macrocarpa Bur oak Uncommon in western woodlot
Quercus rubra Red oak Occasional in western woodlot
Rhamnus cathartica Common buckthorn INVASIVE Abundant in thickets
Rhus typhina Staghorn sumac Uncommon (one occurrence noted)
Rubus alleghaniensis Blackberry Occasional
Rubus idaeus Red raspberry Occasional
Rubus occidentalis Back raspberry Occasional
Salix alba White willow Occasional
Salix bebbiana Bebb’s willow Occasional
Salix discolor Pussy willow Occasional
Salix eriocephala Wand willow Occasional
Salix fragilis Crack willow Occasional
Ulmus americana American elm Uncommon
Viburnum dentatum Arrowwood Uncommon in western woodlot
Viburnum lentago Nannyberry Common at edge of western woodlot
Viburnum trilobum Highbush‐cranberry Uncommon in western woodlot
Vitis riparia Riverbank grape Common
FERNS & FERN ALLIES
Equisetum arvense Field horsetail Abundant along stream
Onoclea sensibilis Sensitive fern Locally common in western woodlot
HERBS
Achillea millefolium Yarrow Occasional
Agrostis capillaris Colonial bent grass Common
Agrostis gigantea Red‐top Common
Agrostis stolonifera Creeping bent grass Common
Alisma gramineum Grass‐leaved water‐plantain Occasional
Ambrosia artemisiifolia Ragweed Occasional along roadsides
Anthoxanthum odoratum Sweet vernal grass Common
Artemisia vulgaris Common mugwort Occasional along roadsides
Asclepias syriaca Common milkweed Occasional
Boehmeria cylindrica False nettle Occasional
Bromus inermis Hungarian brome Abundant
Calamagrostis canadensis Canada bluejoint Abundant
Carex communis Common sedge Occasional
Carex cristatella Crested sedge Common in wetland
Carex gracillima Slender sedge Few, forest
Carex granularis Meadow sedge Occasional
Carex lacustris Lake sedge Locally abundant
Carex normalis Tall straw sedge Few
Carex pallescens Pale sedge Few
Carex scoparia Broom sedge Few
Carex stipata Soft‐stemmed sedge Common
Carex vulpinoidea Fox sedge Occasional
Centaurea jacea Brown knapweed Abundant
Cerastium fontanum Mouse‐ear chickweed Few, near driveway
Cichorium intybus Chicory Occasional
Cicuta maculata Spotted water‐hemlock Locally common
Circaea canadensis Enchanter’s‐nightshade Occasional in western woodlot
Cirsium arvense Canada thistle Common
Cirsium vulgare Bull thistle Uncommon
Clematis virginiana Virgin’s bower Uncommon
Dactylis glomerata Orchard grass Abundant
Daucus carota Queen Anne’s lace Common
Eleocharis sp. Spike‐rush Locally common, meadow
Eleocharis palustris Marsh spike‐rush Locally common, pond
Elymus repens Witch grass Common
Epilobium hirsutum Hairy willow‐herb Occasional in wetland
Erigeron strigosus Daisy fleabane Common
Eupatorium perfoliatum Boneset Occasional
Eutrochium maculatum Joe‐Pye‐weed Occasional in wetland
Fragaria virginiana Strawberry Common
Galium mollugo Field bedstraw Abundant
Galium palustre Marsh bedstraw Common in marsh wetland
Galium triflorum Sweet‐scented bedstraw Occasional in wetlands
Geranium robertianum Herb Robert Occasional in western woodlot
Geum aleppicum Yellow avens Uncommon
Geum canadense White avens Common in forest
Glechoma hederacea Gill‐over‐the‐ground Locally common
Glyceria grandis Tall manna grass Common in wetland
Hypericum perforatum Common St. John’s‐wort Occasional
Juncus tenuis Path rush Common
Leersia oryzoides Rice cut‐grass Locally common in wetland
Lemna minor Duckweed Common in pools & pond
Lemna trisulca Star duckweed Abundant in pond
Leucanthemum vulgare Ox‐eye daisy Locally common
Lobelia inflata Indian tobacco Few, woods margin
Ludwigia palustris Common water‐purslane Locally common in wetland
Lycopus americanus American water‐horehound Occasional in wetland
Lysimachia terrestris Bog‐candles Common in wet meadows
Lythrum salicaria Purple loosestrife INVASIVE Few, in wetland
Medicago sativa Alfalfa Occasional
Mentha canadensis American wild mint Occasional in wetland
Mimulus ringens Monkey‐flower Uncommon in wetland
Lotus corniculatus Bird’s‐foot trefoil Occasional
Oxalis stricta Yellow wood‐sorrel Occasional
Persicaria hydropiper Water‐pepper One occurrence noted in marsh
Poa pratensis Kentucky blue grass Common
Poa palustris Fowl meadow grass Common
Phalaris arundinacea Reed canary‐grass Abundant
Phleum pratense Timothy Abundant
Pilosella caespitosa Yellow king‐devil Locally common
Potentilla recta Sulfur cinquefoil Occasional
Potentilla simplex Old‐field cinquefoil Common
Rubus triflorus Creeping raspberry Common in western woodlot
Ranunculus acris Tall buttercup Common
Rudbeckia hirta var. pulcherrima Black‐eyed Susan Occasional
Rumex crispus Curly dock Occasional
Rumex pseudonatronatus Finnish dock One occurrence, field near driveway
Sagittaria latifolia Common arrowhead Common in pond
Schedonorus pratensis Meadow‐fescue Local
Schoenoplectus tabernaemontani Soft stem bulrush Occasional in wetland
Scirpus atrovirens Black bulrush Common
Scirpus cyperinus Wool‐grass Occasional
Scirpus hattorianus Hattori bulrush Common
Scirpus pendulus Pendulous bulrush Uncommon
Scorzoneroides autumnalis Fall dandelion Occasional
Solidago altissima Tall goldenrod Common
Solidago gigantea Large goldenrod Occasional
Solidago canadensis Canada goldenrod Locally abundant
Solidago juncea Early goldenrod Occasional
Solidago rugosa Rough goldenrod Occasional near western woodlot
Sparganium americanum Common bur‐reed Occasional in pond
Stellaria graminea Common stichwort Common
Symphyotrichum lanceolatum Lance‐leaved aster Occasional
Symphyotrichum lateriflorum Calico aster Few, forest margin
Symphyotrichum novae‐angliae New England aster Occasional
Taraxacum officinale Dandelion Common
Trifolium aureum Hop clover Uncommon
Trifolium hybridum Alsike clover Local
Trifolium pratense Red clover Occasional
Typha angustifolia Narrow‐leaved cat‐tail Common in wetland near Dorset Street
Typha x glauca Hybrid cat‐tail Common in pond
Verbena hastata Purple vervain Occasional
Vicia cracca Cow vetch Abundant
WILDLIFE
The following rare wildlife species have been recorded in this area of South Burlington:
COMMON NAME SCIENTIFIC NAME STATUS REMARKS
Sedge wren Cistothorus platensis S2B
Endangered
North of Nowland Farm Rd., 2011
Upland sandpiper Bartramia brevicauda S2B
Endangered
On lands to the southwest, 1989
Blue‐winged warbler Vermivora cyanoptera S3B SC In woods on northern part of
South Village site, 2013
Northern harrier Circus hudsonius S3B SC North of Nowland Farm Rd.
(2011); South Village marshes
(2019)
Meadow lark Sternella magna S4B SC Dorset Farms, 2009; Cider Mill,
2015; Dorset Meadows, 2019
Vesper sparrow Pooecetes gramineus S2S3B SC Dorset Farms, 2010
Jefferson’s salamander Ambystoma
jeffersonianum
S3 In old farm pond at South Village
site to the southwest; 2018
Blue‐spotted
salamander
Ambystoma laterale S3 In old farm pond at South Village
site to the southwest; 2018
S2 = Rare; S3 = Uncommon; B = Status refers to breeding populations; SC = Species of special concern
Of the species listed above, only one (eastern meadowlark) was observed at the site; a single individual
was flushed from the hayfield near the upper end of the pond. Given that suitable habitat is found at
the site, the other listed bird species might occur there, but none have been seen during fieldwork on
this and adjacent parcels in 2017, 2018 or 2019. The pond might provide habitat for the two amphibian
species, but there is no suitable upland habitat (deciduous forest) nearby.
W. Steven Litkovitz Direct Dial Number:
Electrical Engineer (802) 655-8796
steve.litkovitz@greenmountainpower.com
Green Mountain Power 163 Acorn Lane Colchester Vermont 05446-6611 www.greenmountainpower.com
February 27, 2019
Mr. Bryan Currier, PE
O’Leary-Burke Civil Associates
13 Corporate Drive
Essex Junction, VT 05452
Dear Mr. Currier:
Green Mountain Power Corporation (GMP) has reviewed your request of February 26, 2019 for GMP to
serve a proposed electric load to a new housing subdivision to be located at 1505 Dorset Street in South
Burlington, Vermont (the Project). This location is near Pole 82, taglet 54555, which is currently served
by GMP’s 78G2 circuit. This circuit, in turn, is supplied by the GMP Dorset Street substation. Further field
and record investigation is required by our distribution designer to determine the location of the most
appropriate GMP delivery point(s) for these residences. Based on the information that you have
provided, GMP approves an ability to serve 750 kVA at the above referenced location.
As you know, our comments are required for the Project so that a meaningful assessment can be made
under 10 VSA Section 6086 (a)(9)(J).
You have informed us that the Project will consist of 95 single family homes, 35 multi-family units, and
24 duplex units. Based on this and other information provided to us, GMP estimates that your proposed
Project could result in an estimated additional peak demand on the GMP system of 750 kVA. If this
estimate is not consistent with your load projections, GMP must be made aware of the situation for
planning purposes.
GMP’s review of this Project assumes that there would be no single-phase motors larger than 5 H.P.
planned for these units. If this is not correct, GMP must be informed so that it can calculate applicable
motor start and flicker limitations.
A new ability to serve request must be placed with GMP if construction of the Project has not begun
within two (2) years of the date of this letter. Any new line extension construction necessary to provide
service will be administered under GMP’s line extension tariff. This tariff provides that line extensions
will be installed in a right-of-way granted by the customer in the form of a legally binding easement in a
form satisfactory to GMP. GMP requires that these rights-of-way be unencumbered, and meet the
following criteria:
(i) for overhead facilities, a minimum of 25' in width;
(ii) for underground facilities a minimum of 20’ in width.
Mr. Bryan Currier, PE
February 27, 2019
Page 2 of 2
As stated in GMP specifications, the easement strip may be shared by telecommunication facilities with
the appropriate spacing and subject to GMP’s superior easement interest. However, all other utilities,
including but not limited to, water, gas, sewer and drainage must maintain a minimum separation
distance of 10’ from our electric facilities. This separation requirement includes utilities that may be
located in a public right-of-way adjacent to our easement. GMP expects to be able to maintain this
separation distance with the minimum easement widths noted above. If however the minimum
easement widths and/or 10’ spacing cannot be met for underground facilities due to road right of way
requirements, then GMP may, upon request and in its sole discretion, allow minimum spacing of 5’
subject to the condition that the electric facilities be encased in a 4” envelop of concrete at customer
cost. Any relocation of existing GMP facilities in public or private right of way that is required in
conjunction with this Project, or in conjunction with any highway improvements related to this Project,
will be administered under GMP’s relocation policy. This policy requires that the facilities be relocated
within private right of way where possible, and that all costs be recovered from the Project.
Details concerning service size, scheduling, costs, etc., should be discussed with Joe Bobee, GMP’s
distribution designer for this area. Joe can be reached at 802-655-8568.
In addition to demonstrating that GMP has the capacity and the ability to provide service to your
Project, you may be required to demonstrate, under 10 VSA Section 6086 (a)(9)(F), that your Project is
designed to utilize energy in an efficient manner. The Vermont Public Service Board has appointed
Efficiency Vermont as the energy efficiency utility for this area. Efficiency Vermont is available to work
with Act 250 permit applicants to help understand the requirements of the above referenced statute
and to assist you or your client to design and construct an efficient building. A copy of this letter is being
sent to Efficiency Vermont which can be reached toll-free at 1-888-921-5990.
Respectfully,
Steve Litkovitz
cc: Engineering Files
Joe Bobee
Efficiency Vermont
275 COLLEGE STREET, PO BOX 4485 | BURLINGTON, VT 05406-4485 | PHONE 802 861-7000 | FAX 861-7007 | MSKVT.COM
August 30, 2019
VIA ELECTRONIC MAIL
Mr. Matt Cota, Chair
South Burlington Development Review Board
City of South Burlington
575 Dorset Street
South Burlington, VT 05403
Email: mcota@sburl.com
Re: 1505 Dorset Street, Final Plat Application No. SD-19-27
Dear Chairperson Cota:
I serve as counsel for Robert Brinckerhoff and Louise Hammond, 15 Shea Drive; Andrew
Chalnick, 670 Nowland Farm Road; Rosanne Greco and Higley Harmon, 63 Four Sisters Road;
William and Kathy Hays, 51 Old Schoolhouse Road; Noah Hyman, 1575 Dorset Street; Claudia
J. Miller, 48 Old Schoolhouse Road; Steven and Dunia Partilo, 64 Shea Drive; and Darrilyn
Peters, 37 Old Schoolhouse Road, all of whom are South Burlington residents as well as persons
interested in the above-referenced Final Plat Application (collectively, “Save Open Spaces South
Burlington” or “SOS South Burlington”).
I learned late yesterday afternoon that a public notice of a September 17, 2019 DRB
hearing concerning the above-referenced Final Plat Application was published in the August 29,
2019 edition of the Other Paper. It also came to my attention late yesterday afternoon that at
least one abutter to the proposed Dorset Meadows project had received a mailing concerning the
scheduled September 17th Final Plat hearing.1
As you and your fellow DRB members may be aware, the proposed Dorset Meadows
project is the subject of a pending appeal in the Environmental Division of the Vermont Superior
Court that I filed on behalf of the above-listed SOS South Burlington members. This E-Court
appeal, styled, In re Dorset Meadows, LLC PUD, Dkt. No. 90-7-19 Vtec (the “E-Court Appeal”),
raises various issues concerning the proposed Dorset Meadows project, including whether the
DRB has jurisdiction to consider it at this time and/or in the project’s current proposed form.
See Appellants’ Statement of Questions, In re Dorset Meadows, LLC PUD, Dkt. No. 90-7-19
Vtec (Aug. 19, 2019), a copy of which is attached hereto as an Exhibit.
1 Late this afternoon, I received an e-mail message for Development Review Planner Marla
Keene informing me that the September 17th hearing had been adjourned to October 15th due to a
“quorum issue.”
Letter to DRB Chairperson Matt Cota
August 30, 2019
Page 2 of 3
275 College Street, PO Box 4485 | Burlington, VT 05406-4485 | phone 802 861-7000 | Fax 861-7007 | mskvt.com
In light of the pending E-Court Appeal, SOS South Burlington maintains that the DRB is
divested of jurisdiction to act on the Final Plat Application, and that therefore the warning of the
September 17th Final Plat hearing and any mailings to abutters concerning the September 17th
hearing are legal nullities. As E-Court Judge Thomas G. Walsh held in his March 19, 2019
decision in a prior appeal concerning the Dorset Meadows project, the DRB is powerless to act
during the pendency of a court appeal concerning “those aspects of the application involved in
the appeal”:
While we ultimately conclude that this Court does not have subject
matter jurisdiction, our conclusions do not in any way affect the
rules surrounding divestiture of jurisdiction. See In re Freimour &
Menard Conditional Use Permit, No. 59-4-11 Vtec, slip op. at 6-7
(Vt. Super. Ct. Envtl. Div. June 6, 2012) (Durkin, J.) (citations
omitted) (discussing how an appeal to this Court divests the
municipal panel below of its authority to decide on those aspects of
the application involved in the appeal). Dorset argues that, despite
the present appeal, the DRB retained its ability to decide on the
Applications in the next phase of review. The DRB, however, did
not have control over the reviewability of the [Dorset Meadows
Preliminary Plat and Master Plan] Applications while this
appeal was pending. The question of whether the DRB could
properly proceed to the next stage of review was the basis of
Neighbors[’] appeal and constituted the matter before this
Court. The DRB could not decide this question for themselves.
Any steps taken by the DRB related to the [Dorset Meadows
Preliminary Plat and Master Plan] Applications during the
pendency of this appeal were carried out without the power to
do so. See, e.g., Kotz v. Kotz, 134 Vt. 36 (1975) (vacating a trial
court order that issued while the matter was on appeal to the
Supreme Court).
Dorset Meadows Associates LLC PUD, No. 2-1-19 Vtec, 2019 WL 1423064, at *3, slip op. at 3
(Vt. Super. Ct. Envtl. Div. Mar. 19, 2019) (Walsh, J.) (footnote omitted) (bold emphasis added),
aff’d, No. 2019-130 (Vt. June 4, 2019) (unpub. Entry Order).
In the pending E-Court Appeal, Appellants challenge the DRB’s jurisdiction to proceed
to the next stage of review, as well as the DRB’s jurisdiction to consider a project that is
dependent on transferable development rights. Appellants’ TDR-based challenge to the DRB’s
jurisdiction is based on the fact that, on February 28, 2019, in In re Snyder Group Inc. PUD Final
Plat, Dkt. No. 114-8-17 Vtec, 2019 WL 1428677 (Vt. Super. Ct. Envtl. Div. Feb. 28, 2019)
(Durkin, J.), appeal docketed, No. 2019-122 (Vt. Apr. 5, 2019), the E-Court invalidated the
Letter to DRB Chairperson Matt Cota
August 30, 2019
Page 3 of 3
275 College Street, PO Box 4485 | Burlington, VT 05406-4485 | phone 802 861-7000 | Fax 861-7007 | mskvt.com
City’s Transferable Development Rights Bylaw for failure to comply with the State enabling
statute, 24 V.S.A. § 4423(a), and because the Bylaw was unconstitutionally void for vagueness.
The pending E-Court Appeal also challenges the DRB’s jurisdiction to approve construction in
Primary and Secondary Conservation Areas depicted on Maps 7 and 8 of the City’s
Comprehensive Plan.
In light of the above, I request that the DRB cancel the September 17th/October 15th
hearing[s] on the Final Plat Application and refrain from noticing or scheduling further hearings
on the Application until the E-Court Appeal is resolved.2
Thank you for your attention to this important and time-sensitive matter.
Respectfully submitted,
/s/ Daniel A. Seff
Daniel A. Seff
cc: Mr. Paul Conner, Planning and Zoning Director (via e-mail)
Ms. Dalila Hall, Zoning Administrative Officer (via e-mail)
Ms. Marla Keene, Development Review Planner (via e-mail)
Amanda S. E. Lafferty, Esq., Deputy City Attorney (via e-mail)
Matthew B. Byrne, Esq. (via e-mail)
Robert H. Rushford, Esq. (via e-mail)
Save Open Spaces South Burlington (via e-mail)
2 On August 26, 2019, unaware that the Final Plat Application had been filed, I sent an e-mail
message to the attorneys for the Dorset Meadows developer and the City offering on behalf of SOS South
Burlington to stipulate to a joint stay of the E-Court Appeal until after any future DRB final plat
proceedings were concluded. On August 28, 2019, the developer’s counsel called to inform me that such
a stay was not acceptable because of his concern that a court might ultimately rule that the DRB was
divested of jurisdiction to act on the Final Plat Application during the pendency of a court-ordered stay.
(Counsel did not advise me that a Final Plat Application had been filed. It is possible he assumed
incorrectly that I knew about the filing.) There remains a possibility that counsel for the developer, the
City and I might agree on a proposed mechanism of putting the pending E-Court Appeal in abeyance until
after the DRB issues a decision on the Final Plat Application. E-Court approval of such a mechanism
would be a necessary condition for SOS South Burlington to agree to postpone litigating the issues raised
in the attached Statement of Questions. In the meantime, the E-Court Appeal remains pending and, as
such, the law concerning divestiture of municipal panel jurisdiction applies. See the E-Court’s March 19,
2019 Dorset Meadows Associates decision, which is quoted and discussed on page two, above.
EXHIBIT
Page 1 of 6
STATE OF VERMONT
SUPERIOR COURT ENVIRONMENTAL DIVISION
Docket No. 90-7-19 Vtec In re: Dorset Meadows LLC, PUD
APPELLANTS’ STATEMENT OF QUESTIONS
NOW COME Appellants Robert Brinckerhoff and Louise Hammond, 15 Shea Drive;
Andrew Chalnick, 670 Nowland Farm Road; Rosanne Greco and Higley Harmon, 63 Four
Sisters Road; William and Kathy Hays, 51 Old Schoolhouse Road; Noah Hyman, 1575 Dorset
Street; Claudia J. Miller, 48 Old Schoolhouse Road; Steven and Dunia Partilo, 64 Shea Drive;
and Darrilyn Peters, 37 Old Schoolhouse Road, all of whom are South Burlington residents
(collectively, “Appellants”), by and through their counsel, MSK Attorneys, and hereby
respectfully submit, pursuant to Rule 5(f) of the Vermont Rules for Environmental Court
Proceedings, this Statement of Questions:
PRELIMINARY STATEMENT
Questions #s 1 through 6, below, are substantively identical to Questions #s 1 through 6
of the January 25, 2019 Statement of Questions that Appellants filed in the since-dismissed case
of In re Dorset Meadows Associates LLC PUD, Dkt. No. 2-1-19 Vtec (the “Sketch Plan
Appeal”).1 This Court dismissed Appellants’ Sketch Plan Appeal on March 19, 2019 for lack of
subject matter jurisdiction, hence there has yet to be a merits ruling on Questions #s 1 through 6.
1 The only difference between the two sets of Questions #s 1 through 6 is the inclusion of the letter “A” in the referenced Application numbers, e.g., “Application for Subdivision Plat Review (Preliminary), No. SD-18-29” has been changed to “Application for Subdivision Plat Review
(Preliminary), No. SD-18-29A,” and “Application for Master Plan Review, No. MP-18-01” has been changed to “Application for Master Plan Review, No. MP-18-01A.” All references herein to Application Nos. SD-18-29A are intended to include Application No. SD-18-29, and all references hereto Application
No. MP-18-01A are intended to include Application No. MP-18-01.
Page 2 of 6
See In re Dorset Meadows Associates LLC PUD, No. 2-1-19 Vtec, 2019 WL 1423064 (Vt.
Super. Ct. Envtl. Div. Mar. 19, 2019) (Walsh, J.).
Appellants appealed this Court’s March 19, 2019 Sketch Plan Appeal dismissal ruling to
the Vermont Supreme Court. In an unpublished one-paragraph Entry Order, the Supreme Court
granted Dorset Meadows Associates LLC’s motion to dismiss Appellants’ appeal for lack of
subject matter jurisdiction, stating in relevant part:
The Environmental Division ruled on an interlocutory issue in the
underlying PUD application process; there has not yet been a final resolution of Dorset Meadows’ application. We lack jurisdiction over this interlocutory ruling and the appeal is therefore dismissed.
In re Dorset Meadows Associates LLC PUD, No. 2019-130 (Vt. June 4, 2019) (unpub. Entry
Order).
Appellants continue to maintain respectfully that the City of South Burlington
Development Review Board was required to vote on Dorset Meadows Associates LLC’s Sketch
Plan Application No. SD-18-23, and that the DRB’s failure to vote renders Dorset Meadows
Associates LLC’s subsequent Applications for Subdivision Plat Review (Preliminary), No. SD-
18-29A, and Master Plan Review, No. MP-18-01A, premature, unripe, invalid, null and void,
and of no force or effect. Appellants submit respectfully that Questions #s 1 through 6, below,
are ripe for review as part of the instant appeal regardless of whether the Supreme Court would
have immediate subject matter jurisdiction of over any appeals resulting from this Court’s
eventual merits ruling on Questions #s 1 through 6.
QUESTIONS THAT THE APPELLANTS DESIRE TO HAVE DETERMINED
1. Was a final decision of the City of South Burlington Development Review Board
(“DRB”) on Dorset Meadows Associates LLC’s (“Applicant”) Sketch Plan Application No. SD-
18-23 (“Sketch Plan Application”) required by, inter alia, 24 V.S.A. § 4461(a), the City of South
Page 3 of 6
Burlington Land Development Regulations (“SBLDR”), including § 15.05(C)(3), and/or In re
Saxon Partners LLC BJ’s Warehouse Sketch Plan, No. 5-1-16 Vtec, 2016 WL 4211462 (Vt.
Super. Ct. Envtl. Div. Chitt. Cty. Mar. 25, 2016) (Walsh, J.) (“Saxon Partners”)?
1.1. Is the DRB’s sketch meeting (“Sketch Meeting”) concerning the Sketch Plan
Application still open due to the DRB’s failure to make a final decision on the
Sketch Plan Application?
1.2. Does the DRB’s failure to make a final decision on the Sketch Plan Application
render the Applicant’s subsequent Application for Subdivision Plat Review
(Preliminary), No. SD-18-29A, premature, unripe, invalid, null and void, and of
no force or effect?
1.3. Does the DRB’s failure to make a final decision on the Sketch Plan Application
render the Applicant’s subsequent Application for Master Plan Review, No. MP-
18-01A, premature, unripe, invalid, null and void, and of no force or effect?
2. Was the DRB required by, inter alia, 24 V.S.A. § 4461(a), the SBLDR, including
§ 15.05(C)(3), and/or Saxon Partners to vote on the Sketch Plan Application?
2.1. Is the Sketch Meeting still open due to the DRB’s failure to vote on the Sketch
Plan Application?
2.2. Does the DRB’s failure to vote on the Sketch Plan Application render the
Applicant’s subsequent Application for Subdivision Plat Review (Preliminary),
No. SD-18-29A, premature, unripe, invalid, null and void, and of no force or
effect?
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2.3. Does the DRB’s failure to vote to on the Sketch Plan Application render the
Applicant’s subsequent Application for Master Plan Review, No. MP-18-01A,
premature, unripe, invalid, null and void, and of no force or effect?
3. Did the DRB commit reversible error in declining to grant the relief requested in
the Appellants’ Notices of Appeal to the DRB dated October 11, 2018 and October 26, 2018,
including, inter alia, the Appellants’ requests that the DRB determine that the Applicant’s
Application for Subdivision Plat Review (Preliminary), No. SD-18-29A, is premature, unripe,
invalid, null and void, and of no force or effect?
4. Is the Applicant’s Application for Subdivision Plat Review (Preliminary), No.
SD-18-29A, premature, unripe, invalid, null and void, and of no force or effect?
5. Did the DRB commit reversible error in declining to grant the relief requested in
the Appellants’ Notices of Appeal to the DRB dated October 11, 2018 and October 26, 2018,
including, inter alia, the Appellants’ requests that the DRB determine that the Applicant’s
Application for Master Plan Review, No. MP-18-01A, is premature, unripe, invalid, null and
void, and of no force or effect?
6. Is the Applicant’s Application for Master Plan Review, No. MP-18-01A,
premature, unripe, invalid, null and void, and of no force or effect?
7. Is the proposed Dorset Meadows project (the “Project”), which is dependent on
the use of 68 so-called transferable development rights (“TDRs”) to reach its proposed density of
154 dwelling units, limited to a maximum density of no more than 86 dwelling units due to the
fact that, on February 28, 2019, in In re Snyder Group Inc. PUD Final Plat, Dkt. No. 114-8-17
Vtec, 2019 WL 1428677 (Vt. Super. Ct. Envtl. Div. Feb. 28, 2019) (Durkin, J.), appeal docketed,
No. 2019-122 (Vt. Apr. 5, 2019) (“Snyder Group”), this Court invalidated the City’s
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Transferable Development Rights Bylaw (“TDR Bylaw” or “Bylaw”) for failure to comply with
the State enabling statute, 24 V.S.A. § 4423(a), and because the Bylaw was unconstitutionally
void for vagueness?
8. Did the DRB act improperly and/or exceed its jurisdiction by approving the use of
TDRs after this Court invalidated the TDR Bylaw in Snyder Group?
9. Should the Project be remanded to the DRB with instructions to limit any future
proposals to a maximum of 86 dwelling units?
10. Is the Applicant prohibited by, inter alia, the SBLDR, including without limitation
Sections 9.06(B)(3), 12.01(C)(4) and 15.18(A)(10) thereof, from constructing the Project in the
Primary Conservation Areas depicted on Map 7 of the City’s Comprehensive Plan, including
without limitation the Riparian Connectivity area?
11. Did the DRB act improperly and/or exceed its jurisdiction by approving Project
construction in one or more Primary Conservation Areas?
12. Should this Court remand the Project to the DRB with instructions to limit any
future proposals to construction outside of Primary Conservation Areas as depicted on Map 7 of
the City’s Comprehensive Plan?
13. Is the Applicant prohibited by, inter alia, the SBLDR, including without limitation
Sections 9.06(B)(3), 12.01(C)(4) and 15.18(A)(10) thereof, from constructing the Project in the
Secondary Conservation Areas depicted on Map 8 of the City’s Comprehensive Plan?
14. Did the DRB act improperly and/or exceed its jurisdiction by approving Project
construction in one or more Secondary Conservation Areas?
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15. Should this Court remand the Project to the DRB with instructions to limit any
future proposals to construction outside of Secondary Conservation Areas as depicted on Map 8
of the City’s Comprehensive Plan?
16. Is the project designed to be visually compatible with the planned development
patterns in the area, as specified in the Comprehensive Plan and the purpose of the zoning
districts in which the project is located?
DATED at Burlington, Vermont this 19th day of August, 2019.
Respectfully submitted, MSK ATTORNEYS By: /s/ Daniel A. Seff
Daniel A. Seff, Esq. (ERN 1514) 275 College Street, P.O. Box 4485 Burlington, VT 05406-4485
Phone: 802-861-7000
Fax: 802-861-7007 Email: dseff@mskvt.com Attorneys for Appellants
275 COLLEGE STREET, PO BOX 4485 | BURLINGTON, VT 05406-4485 | PHONE 802 861-7000 | FAX 861-7007 | MSKVT.COM
October 10, 2019
VIA ELECTRONIC MAIL
Mr. Matt Cota, Chair
South Burlington Development Review Board
City of South Burlington
575 Dorset Street
South Burlington, VT 05403
Email: mcota@sburl.com
Re: 1505 Dorset Street, Final Plat Application No. SD-19-27
Dear Chairperson Cota and members of the South Burlington DRB:
I serve as counsel for Robert Brinckerhoff and Louise Hammond, 15 Shea Drive; Andrew
Chalnick, 670 Nowland Farm Road; Rosanne Greco and Higley Harmon, 63 Four Sisters Road;
William and Kathy Hays, 51 Old Schoolhouse Road; Noah Hyman, 1575 Dorset Street; Claudia
J. Miller, 48 Old Schoolhouse Road; Steven and Dunia Partilo, 64 Shea Drive; and Darrilyn
Peters, 37 Old Schoolhouse Road, all of whom are South Burlington residents as well as persons
interested in the above-referenced Final Plat Application (collectively, “Save Open Spaces South
Burlington” or “SOS South Burlington”). This letter and Attachments A to E hereto concern
1505 Dorset Street, Final Plat Application No. SD-19-27.
As explained below in Section I, the Final Plat Application is moot and should be
dismissed because it is dependent on 68 transferable development rights (“TDRs”) under the
City’s former 2006 TDR Bylaw (“2006 TDR Bylaw”) to reach its proposed density of 154
dwelling units. The E-Court invalidated the 2006 TDR Bylaw in the February 28, 2019 Snyder
Group decision, which remains the controlling law while Snyder Group is on appeal to the
Vermont Supreme Court.
Moreover, as explained below in Section II, the developer and the DRB cannot apply the
City’s new 2019 TDR Bylaw (which the City Council approved on September 16, 2019) to the
Final Plat Application. Vermont law is clear that a municipality may not apply to a submitted
permit application a zoning ordinance adopted after the filing of the application. Rather, the
zoning regulations in effect when an application was filed govern the application, not
subsequently enacted amendments.
Finally, as explained below in Section III, even if the 2006 TDR Bylaw still existed
(which it does not), or even if the 2019 TDR Bylaw applied to the Final Plat Application (which
it does not), the Final Plat Application is fatally flawed and must be rejected because the
developer proposes to build in a Primary Conservation Area that is off-limits to development and
Letter to DRB Chairperson Matt Cota
October 10, 2019
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which the South Burlington Land Development Regulations (“SBLDR”) mandate “shall be
protected through the development plan.” SBLDR § 9.06(B)(3).
I. The Final Plat Application is Moot and Should Be Dismissed Because it is
Dependent on 68 TDRs Under the City’s 2006 TDR Bylaw and that Bylaw
was Invalidated on February 28, 2019 in the E-Court’s Controlling Snyder
Group Decision.
On February 28, 2019, the Vermont Superior Court’s Environmental Division handed
down a controlling decision invalidating the City’s 2006 TDR Bylaw for failure to comply with
the State enabling statute, 24 V.S.A. § 4423(a), and because the Bylaw is unconstitutionally void
for vagueness on its face. See In re Snyder Group Inc. PUD Final Plat, Dkt. No. 114-8-17 Vtec,
2019 WL 1428677 (Vt. Super. Ct. Envtl. Div. Feb. 28, 2019) (Durkin, J.), appeal docketed, No.
2019-122 (Vt. Apr. 5, 2019) (hereafter cited as “Snyder Group”).
On April 5, 2019, the Snyder Group, Inc. appealed Snyder Group to the Vermont
Supreme Court (the City did not appeal or cross-appeal). On September 17, 2019, the Vermont
Supreme Court held oral argument in Snyder Group. The Vermont Supreme Court’s decision
could come down at any time. In the meantime, the E-Court’s Snyder Group February 28, 2019
decision remains the controlling law.
As such, the 2006 TDR Bylaw remains invalid, and neither the developer nor the DRB
can rely on the former Bylaw to increase the base density of the proposed Dorset Meadows PUD.
See generally In re Ashline, 2003 VT 30, ¶ 9, 175 Vt. 203, 824 A.2d 579 (“In Vermont, a
judgment of an adjudicative body remains valid until reversed or annulled”) (emphasis
added), citing Davidson v. Davidson, 111 Vt. 24, 29, 9 A.2d 114, 116 (1939). In Davidson, the
Court explained that “the judgment of a trial court in an action at law is not vacated by the
allowance and filing of a bill of exceptions, but it still remains valid until reversed or annulled.”
Id. at 29, 9 A.2d at 116. See also In re Hale Mountain Fish & Game Club, Nos. 149-8-04 Vtec &
259-12-05 Vtec, 2008 WL 7242611, slip op. at 11 (Vt. Envtl. Ct. Nov. 21, 2008) (Durkin, J.)
(holding that “Vermont [trial court] judgments are final unless appellate review of that judgment
involves a trial de novo” and noting that “[t]his approach is in accord with the federal approach
to finality”) (citing cases).1
1 A “trial de novo” is not the same thing as review de novo. See Luck Bros. v. Agency of
Transp., 2014 VT 59, ¶ 27, 196 Vt. 584, 99 A.3d 997 (citing cases); see also Stein’s, Inc. v. Blumenthal,
649 F.2d 463, 466 (7th Cir. 1980) (distinguishing between “trial de novo” and “de novo review”).
Situations in which an “appeal” involves a “full trial de novo” are “virtually nonexistent.” 18A EDWARD
H. COOPER, FEDERAL PRACTICE AND PROCEDURE: JURISDICTION § 4433 (3d ed.) (emphasis added),
Westlaw FPP § 4433 (database updated Aug. 2019).
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October 10, 2019
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The long-standing Vermont rule that court decisions remain valid until reversed or
annulled is consistent with the rule in the federal courts that “the preclusive effects of a lower
court judgment cannot be suspended simply by taking an appeal that remains undecided.”
18A EDWARD H. COOPER, FEDERAL PRACTICE AND PROCEDURE: JURISDICTION § 4433 (3d ed.)
(emphasis added), Westlaw FPP § 4433 (database updated Aug. 2019). As the authors of a
leading federal procedure treatise have explained:
The bare act of taking an appeal is no more effective to defeat
preclusion than a failure to appeal. The Supreme Court long ago
seemed to establish the rule that a final judgment retains all of its
res judicata consequences pending decision of the appeal, apart
from the virtually nonexistent situation in which the “appeal”
actually involves a full trial de novo. The lower courts have taken
the rule as settled ever since.
Id. § 4433 (emphasis added) (footnotes omitted) (citing extensive case law). See generally
Coleman v. Tollefson, 135 S. Ct. 1759, 1764 (2015) (“a judgment’s preclusive effect is generally
immediate, notwithstanding any appeal”); Palmer-Williams v. United States, 699 F. App’x 1, 3
(2d Cir. 2017) (“the law is well-settled that the preclusive effect of a judgment is immediate,
notwithstanding a pending appeal”); and Burke v. Vermont Dep’t of Corr., No. 5:14-CV-00272,
2015 WL 1954268, at *3 n.3 (D. Vt. Apr. 29, 2015) (“Res judicata and collateral estoppel apply
once a final judgment is entered in a case, even while an appeal from that judgment is pending.”)
(internal quotes and brackets omitted).
In the instant matter, the current controlling law announced in Snyder Group is that the
City’s 2006 TDR Bylaw is invalid and unconstitutional. The practical effect of this is that the
Dorset Meadows developer’s Final Plat Application, which is dependent on 68 TDRs under
the 2006 TDR Bylaw, is moot and should be dismissed.
II. The City’s New 2019 TDR Bylaw Does Not Apply to the Final Plat
Application.
In an apparent reaction to the E-Court’s February 28, 2019 Snyder Group decision
invalidating the 2006 TDR Bylaw, the City Council adopted a new TDR bylaw on September 16,
2019 (“2019 TDR Bylaw”). The developer and the DRB cannot apply the new 2019 TDR
Bylaw to the Final Plat Application. Vermont law is clear that a municipality may not apply to a
submitted permit application a zoning ordinance adopted after the application is filed. See
generally Gould v. Town of Monkton, 2016 VT 84, ¶ 28, 202 Vt. 535, 150 A.3d 1084 (“a permit
application cannot prospectively vest a right in future regulations”); In re Times & Seasons,
LLC, 2011 VT 76, ¶ 16, 190 Vt. 163, 27 A.3d 323 (to “take advantage” of a post-application
“favorable change in the law,” an applicant must begin the “permit process anew”); In re Paynter
Letter to DRB Chairperson Matt Cota
October 10, 2019
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275 College Street, PO Box 4485 | Burlington, VT 05406-4485 | phone 802 861-7000 | Fax 861-7007 | mskvt.com
2-Lot Subdivision, 2010 VT 28, ¶ 9, 187 Vt. 637, 996 A.2d 219 (mem.) (explaining that a town
may not apply to a submitted permit application a zoning ordinance adopted after the filing of the
application); and Smith v. Winhall Planning Comm’n, 140 Vt. 178, 181-82, 436 A.2d 760, 761-
62 (1981) (holding that zoning regulations in effect when application was filed govern
application, not subsequently enacted amendments).
In short, if the Dorset Meadows developer wishes to hitch its wagon to the 2019 TDR
Bylaw, it must begin the “permit process anew,” i.e., file a new sketch plan application. Times
& Seasons, 2011 VT 76, ¶ 16.
III. Dorset Meadows Cannot Be Constructed in a Primary Conservation Area.
SBLDR Section 9.06(B)(3) states that “existing natural resources shall be protected
through the development plan, including (but not limited to) primary natural communities,
streams, wetlands, floodplains, [and] conservation areas shown in the Comprehensive
Plan. . . .” SBLDR § 9.06(B)(3) (emphasis added).
The City’s Comprehensive Plan identifies “primary conservation areas” on Map 7
(Attachment A hereto), and the Comprehensive Plan states (at page 2-103) that “[p]rimary
conservation areas (Map 7) include environmentally sensitive and hazardous areas that are off
limits to development, regardless of their setting or context. . . .” (emphasis added). Much of
the proposed “Dorset Meadows” development is located on a riparian connectivity area that the
Comprehensive Plan designates as a Primary Conservation (Attachment B) and as off limits to
development. For this reason alone, the Final Plat Application must be rejected.
Former DRB member Frank Kochman voted against granting preliminary plat and master
plan approval to Dorset Meadows for this very reason. See the DRB’s June 28, 2019 Findings of
Fact and Decision approving the developer’s Preliminary Plat Application #SD-18-29A, at 25
n.3 (“Mr. Kochman would deny the application for failure of the development plan to protect the
full applicable conservation area as shown on Map 7 of the Comprehensive Plan in violation of
the applicable goal and objective of the Comprehensive Plan.”); and the DRB’s June 28, 2019
Findings of Fact and Decision approving Master Plan Application #MP-18-01A, at 12 n.4
(same).
Moreover, a planned unit development (“PUD”) must be “consistent with the goals and
objectives of the Comprehensive Plan for the affected district(s).” SBLDR § 15.18(A)(10). One
of the Comprehensive Plan’s goals for the City, including the Southeast Quadrant (“SEQ”), is
“conservation of identified important natural areas” (Comp. Plan, p. 1-1 (emphasis added)).
And one of the objectives for the SEQ is prioritizing and conserving existing contiguous and
interconnected open space areas (see Comp. Plan, p. 3-38, Objective 60). The Comprehensive
Plan has identified important natural areas on Map 7. Development in these important natural
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October 10, 2019
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areas is inconsistent “with the goals and objectives of the Comprehensive Plan,” SBLDR §
15.18(A)(10), and as such the Final Plat Application must be rejected.
It is no accident that the City designated these riparian connectivity areas as off-limits to
development, as the State of Vermont has similarly designated these same areas as requiring the
“highest priority” of protection. Attached hereto as Attachment C is a screen shot from the
BioFinder tool produced by the Vermont Agency of Natural Resources (“ANR”). The image
shows (in dark blue) the highest priority “surface water and riparian areas” that exist on the
proposed Dorset Meadows development.
Surface Waters and Riparian Areas include not only rivers, streams, lake, ponds and
wetlands but also the floodplain and land surrounding these water bodies that are impacted by
the waterways. See “ANR Fish & Wildlife Department, Mapping Vermont’s Natural Heritage:
A Mapping and Conservation Guide for Municipal and Regional Planners in Vermont,” 2018, at
48, available at:
https://vtfishandwildlife.com/sites/fishandwildlife/files/documents/Get%20Involved/Partner%20i
n%20Conservation/MVNH-web.pdf (last visited Oct. 10, 2019) (hereafter, “ANR Guide”)
(“Surface Waters and Riparian Areas maps the entire area impacted by these waterways,
including not only the water itself but also the surrounding land. This surrounding area is
referred to as the riparian area.”).
The area that ANR designated as highest priority for protection is practically identical to
the primary conservation area identified by the City. The ANR explains that the BioFinder maps
“outline the areas of land that need to remain healthy and intact if we want to provide plants,
animals, and natural resources the best chance of survival over time.” ANR Guide, supra, at 78.
The ANR has instructed as follows:
Maintaining a vegetated riparian area may be the single most
effective way to protect a community’s natural heritage. The
riparian area provides high quality habitat for a great diversity of
both aquatic and terrestrial species. . . . Terrestrial animals use
riparian areas as travel corridors, while many plant and tree seeds
float downstream to disperse. Streamside vegetation helps to
control flooding, and it is crucial in filtering overland runoff –
which protects water quality – and stabilizing stream banks, which
prevents excessive streambank erosion and sediment buildup.
What’s more, maintaining the riparian area is one of the most cost-
effective ways to provide resilience for a changing climate.
ANR Guide, supra, at 49 (emphasis added). The ANR goes on to state:
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October 10, 2019
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Not sure where to begin conserving your community’s natural
heritage? Consider starting with riparian habitat. Among
conservation actions taken at the community level, maintaining
riparian habitat has one of the greatest impacts for wildlife.
It’s also an area of great benefit for a community, since conserving
the riparian area not only protects wildlife habitat but also
maintains water quality, reduces erosion, provides flood resilience,
and can support recreational opportunities.
Id. at 32 (emphasis added).
Experts commissioned by the City specifically identified these same areas as areas that
“should remain as unfragmented as possible.” In particular, in 2004 Arrowwood Environmental,
LLC produced the “Wildlife and Natural Communities Assessment of the South East Quadrant,
South Burlington Vermont” (the “Arrowwood Assessment”). The Arrowwood Assessment
states:
The Great Swamp, and the upland forest and shrubby fields that
surround it, comprise a 400-500 acre cluster of contiguous and
varied wildlife habitat. It is the anchor, the source habitat for the
western SEQ, and must remain un-fragmented if the level of
current wildlife array is to be maintained in the SEQ.
Arrowhead Assessment § 7.1.1, at 13 (July 13, 2004), available at:
http://www.southburlingtonvt.gov/document_center/committees%20boards/Arrowwood%20Ecol
ogical%20Assessment%202004.doc (last visited Oct. 10, 2019).
A map of the “Great Swamp appears in the June 2004 “Study of Breeding Birds in the
Southeast Quadrant” by Wings Environmental, available at:
http://southburlingtonvt.gov/2004%20SEQ%20Bird%20Habitat%20Evaluation.pdf, Figure 1 at
page 4 (last visited Oct. 10, 2019). A copy of this map included herewith as Attachment D.
The Arrowwood Assessment goes states that “adjacent open spaces, including the large
fields west of Dorset Street, should remain as unfragmented as possible.” Arrowhead
Assessment § 7.1.1(5), at 13. See Attachment D hereto and note that the area west of Dorset
Street. This is the exact area on which the developer proposes to build 153 dwelling units.
Observations of the area confirm the experts’ assessments. Abundant wildlife exists
throughout the site. Residents have reported observing mink, great blue heron, green heron,
bitterns, bobcat, fox, deer, coyotes, squirrels, owls and hawks. Beaver activity can be readily
observed on the neighboring property just downstream of the proposed development.
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October 10, 2019
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In its June 28, 2019 Findings of Fact and Decisions approving the developer’s
Preliminary Plat Application #SD-18-29A (at page 7) and Master Plan Application #MP-18-01A
(at page 8), the DRB found that:
(a) A letter provided by the applicant’s engineer field-delineates areas that the
Comprehensive Plan designated as requiring protection;
(b) This field delineation has been confirmed by State Agencies; and
(c) Map 7 may not be relied on because it includes the following disclaimer: “Maps
and GPS data (“material”) made available by the City of South Burlington are for
reference purposes only. The City does not guarantee accuracy.”
These findings are incorrect. First, there is nothing that requires that riparian areas be
field-delineated and, even if there were, the developer never field-delineated the riparian areas.
Rather, the developer field-delineated the wetlands. Wetlands and riparian areas are distinct and
vitally different natural resources. This is evident by comparing the wetlands layer with the
riparian connectivity layer on Attachment A, and by comparing Attachments A and E.2
Indeed, the SBLDR contains a separate Wetlands Map (Attachment E hereto) which
identifies the wetland areas throughout the City that are subject to the restrictions in SBLDR
Article 12. The SBLDR specifically allows an applicant to use wetlands information from the
field, rather than the information on the Wetlands Map:
The boundaries of wetlands shall be as shown on the Official
Wetlands Map unless alternative information is submitted and
reviewed pursuant to the standards and procedures for review set
forth in Article 12, Section 12.02(C) and (D) of these Regulations.
SBLDR § 3.03(D). In this case, the developer chose to field-delineate the wetlands rather than
rely on the Wetlands Map. But this has nothing to do with riparian areas.
Second, the State never confirmed that riparian areas had been field-delineated. In
connection with its Preliminary Plat and Master Plan Applications, the developer submitted an
email message from Rebecca Pfeiffer, CFM of the State’s Watershed Management Division
2 The ANR defines wetlands as “the vegetated, shallow-margins of lakes and ponds [and] the
seasonally flooded borders of rivers and streams. . . .” ANR Guide, supra, at 51. Technically, wetlands
“all are inundated by or saturated with water for at least two weeks during the growing season” and
“contain wet (hydric) soils, which develop in saturated conditions and lack oxygen and other gases” and
are “dominated by plant species known to be adapted to these saturated soils.” Id.
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October 10, 2019
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dated July 16, 2018 (10:50 AM). Ms. Pfeiffer’s email message has nothing to do with riparian
areas or wildlife habitat. Rather, her email message is concerned solely with flooding and
erosion.
Ms. Pfeiffer’s email message states in part: “the project would appear to meet the
Agency’s Procedure under [Act 250 Criterion] 1(D)” and she refers to the “Flood Hazard Area &
River Corridor Protection Procedure[s]” as the guidance implementing Criterion 1(D). The
Procedures document Ms. Pfeiffer cites in her July 16, 2018 email message is concerned with
protecting against flooding and erosion. The Procedures document provides that its purpose is to
explain how the State Department of Environmental Conservation “defines and maps flood
hazard areas and river corridors for the purposes of Act 250 (10 V.S.A. § 6001 et seq.), Section
248 (30 V.S.A. §§ 248 and 248a), administering the state Flood Hazard Area and River Corridor
Rule (adopted October 24, 2014), and the regulation of berming (10 V.S.A. § 1021). . . .”
Vermont DEC Flood Hazard Area and River Corridor Protection Procedures § 1.0(a)(1), at 3
(Sept. 7, 2017), http://dec.vermont.gov/sites/dec/files/documents/DEC_FHARCP_Procedure.pdf
(last visited Oct. 10, 2019).3
Third, the fact that Comprehensive Plan Map 7 includes a disclaimer that the City “does
not guarantee accuracy” could not be a basis for disregarding the Map. Obviously, the
disclaimer does not mean that Map 7 cannot be relied upon for the very purpose for which the
Map was created, namely identifying protected primary conservation areas. Rather, if the
disclaimer means anything, it can only be read to mean that Map 7 cannot be relied on for
purposes for which it was not created – for example, for the exact location of a road, or the exact
contours of a shore line. This conclusion becomes inescapable by examining the SBLDR
Wetlands Map. That Map has a similar disclaimer, yet it is binding on applicants that do not
field-delineate the wetlands. It would make no sense for the disclaimer to render invalid for
mapping wetlands the very Map that the SBLDR includes to identify the wetlands. Similarly, it
would make no sense for the Map 7 disclaimer to render the Map invalid for the purpose for
which it was created.
3 “Flood Hazard Areas” are defined as “areas of the floodplain that may be inundated by a range
of flood frequencies up to and including the one percent annual chance flood. . . .” Vermont DEC Flood
Hazard Area and River Corridor Protection Procedures § 4.0(a)(1), at 7 (Sept. 7, 2017). “River
Corridors” are defined as the “area around and adjacent to the present channel where fluvial erosion,
channel evolution and down-valley meander migration are most likely to occur. River corridor widths are
calculated to represent the narrowest band of valley bottom and riparian land necessary to accommodate
the least erosive channel and floodplain geometry. . . .” Id. § 4.0(a)(2), at 7. In the case of Dorset
Meadows, it was determined that a 50-foot setback would be adequate to protect against flooding and
erosion. The 50-foot buffer did not take into account – and was not determined on the basis of –
protecting the surrounding riparian areas.
Letter to DRB Chairperson Matt Cota
October 10, 2019
Page 9 of 9
275 College Street, PO Box 4485 | Burlington, VT 05406-4485 | phone 802 861-7000 | Fax 861-7007 | mskvt.com
IV. Summary and Recommendation: For the Sake of the Environment and the
Law, Please Reject the Dorset Meadows Final Plat Application.
The Final Plat Application is fatally flawed and moot because it depends on TDR density
that is not available under the applicable law. On top of that, the developer proposes to build in a
Primary Conservation Area that the City has made clear is off-limits to development and that
needs to be protected if South Burlington is to fulfill its commitment to protect its natural
heritage. If ever there were a proposed development that deserves to be rejected, Dorset
Meadows is it.
In sum, SOS South Burlington is committed to opposing the legally untenable ecological
outlaw that is Dorset Meadows. SOS South Burlington hopes the DRB will do its duty and reject
this ill-conceived project. Thank you for your attention to this important and time-sensitive
matter.
Respectfully submitted,
/s/ Daniel A. Seff
Daniel A. Seff
Attachments (5)
cc: Mr. Paul Conner, Planning and Zoning Director (via e-mail w/Attachments)
Ms. Dalila Hall, Zoning Administrative Officer (via e-mail w/Attachments)
Ms. Marla Keene, Development Review Planner (via e-mail w/Attachments)
Amanda S. E. Lafferty, Esq., Deputy City Attorney (via e-mail w/Attachments)
Matthew B. Byrne, Esq. (via e-mail w/Attachments)
Robert H. Rushford, Esq. (via e-mail w/Attachments)
Save Open Spaces South Burlington (via e-mail w/Attachments)
Attachment A: Comprehensive Plan, Map 7 (“Primary Conservation Areas”)
Attachment B: Overlay of Primary Conservation Areas on proposed “Dorset
Meadows” Development
Attachment C: Bio‐Finder Inventory Map of the Proposed Dorset Meadows Development Site
Darker blue: Highest priority surface water and riparian areas
Light, speckled blue: Wetlands
Reddish‐brown: Clayplain Forest natural community
Orange: Habitat Block
Green line: Level 4 wildlife linkage
Yellow line: Level 3 wildlife linkage
Attachment D: Map of the Great Swamp
Attachment E: LDR Wetlands Map
CITY OF SOUTH BURLINGTON
DEVELOPMENT REVIEW BOARD
SP‐19‐35_1200 Airport Dr_Burlington Intl
Airport_garage_2019‐10‐01.docx
DEPARTMENT OF PLANNING & ZONING
Report preparation date: September 27, 2019
Application received: September 13, 2019
1200 Airport Drive
Site Plan Application #SP‐18‐35
Meeting date: October 1, 2019
Applicant & Owner
City of Burlington, Burlington International Airport
1200 Airport Drive #1
South Burlington, VT 05403
Engineer
Stantec Consulting Services, Inc.
55 Green Mountain Drive
South Burlington, VT 05403
Property Information
Tax Parcel ID 2000‐0000C
Airport Zoning District
#SP‐19‐35
Staff Comments
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
Continued site plan application #SP‐19‐35 of the City of Burlington/Burlington International Airport to
amend a previously approved plan for an airport complex. The amendment consists of constructing a
5,400 sq. ft. addition to an existing maintenance building to provide covered storage for snow removal
equipment, 1200 Airport Drive.
CONTEXT
The applicant was scheduled to be heard on October 1, 2019. Due to scheduling issues related to the
Board, the application was continued to October 15. On October 4, the applicant met with Staff to discuss
issues raised in the October 1 Staff comments and to develop a plan to address those comments. The
applicant has not provided revised materials at the time of this writing, but the below red highlighted
comments note the applicants proposed approach. In all cases, Staff recommends the Board discuss the
item with the applicant, as no resolution has yet been presented.
The applicant is proposing a 90 ft by 60 ft pre‐engineered steel addition to the existing building. The
proposed use of the building will be for covered storage of the airport’s snow removal equipment. The
addition will have four 20 ft by 14 ft overhead doors. The proposed addition will adjoin the existing
maintenance garage. The maximum height will be equal to the height of the existing garage, though the
addition will have a sloped roof. The addition is proposed to be located in an existing gravel area currently
used for maintenance vehicle parking, and involves the construction of a subsurface stormwater
infiltration feature.
This project is subject to review under the Land Development Regulation Standards covering the Airport
District, 12.03 Stormwater Management Standards, Section 14.06 General Review Standards, Section
14.07 Specific Review Standards, and Appendix A Performance Standards
COMMENTS
Development Review Planner Marla Keene and Director of Planning and Zoning Paul Conner have
reviewed the plans submitted on September 13, 2019 and offer the following comments. Numbered
items for the Board’s attention are in red.
ZONING DISTRICT & DIMENSIONAL REQUIREMENTS
Airport Zoning District Required Existing Proposed
Min. Lot Size 3 ac 942 ac No change
Max. Building Coverage 30 % Unknown No change
Max. Overall Coverage 50 % 34.3% 34.4%
1
Min. Front Setback 50 ft. Unknown No change
Min. Side Setback 35 ft. Unknown No change
Min. Rear Setback 50 ft. N/A N/A
Max. Front Setback Coverage 30% Unknown No change
Max. Height (flat roof) 35 ft. Unknown No change
√ Zoning Compliance
1. Staff notes this calculation does not appear correct as it adds 5,400 sf of impervious, equal to
the area of the building, while the provided stormwater modeling shows a reduction in
impervious of 483 sf. The applicant has acknowledged this error and stated they will provide
corrected values as necessary.
#SP‐19‐35
Staff Comments
AIRPORT DISTRICT STANDARDS
All applications within the AIR District shall be subject to the supplemental standards in Section 6.05
and the following additional standards:
(1) No use shall be permitted which will produce electrical interference with radio
communications or radar operations at the Airport.
(2) No lights or glare shall be permitted which could interfere with vision or cause confusion
with airport lights.
(3) No use shall be permitted which could obstruct the aerial approaches to the Airport.
(4) All uses shall comply with all applicable provisions of the Federal Aviation Administration,
and any other federal or state regulations pertaining to airports.
2. The applicant has not provided documentation of compliance from the applicable regulatory entities
responsible for airport approach cones. Staff recommends the Board request documentation of
compliance with these criteria prior to concluding the hearing. The applicant has stated they will
have submitted for FAA approval prior to the continued hearing. The FAA has 45 days to respond. If
the applicant demonstrates submission, Staff recommends the DRB include a condition requiring
approval prior to issuance of the zoning permit.
6.05 Supplemental Standards for Industrial and Airport Districts
A. Site plan or PUD review required. Development according to industrial and airport district
regulations shall be subject to site plan or planned unit development review
Site plan standards are addressed below.
B. Multiple structures and uses permitted. Multiple structures, multiple uses within
structures, and multiple uses on a subject site may be allowed, if the Development Review Board
determines that the subject site has sufficient frontage, lot size, and lot depth.
Staff considers this criterion met.
C. Parking, Access, and Internal Circulation
(1) Parking requirements may be modified, depending in the extent of shared parking, the
presence of sidewalks or recreation paths, and residences lying within walking distance
(defined as no further than one‐quarter (¼) mile for purposes of these districts). Any
requirements for shared access and/or parking must be secured by permanent legal
agreements acceptable to the City Attorney.
(2) Parking shall be placed to the side or rear of the structures if possible.
(3) Parking areas shall be designed for efficient internal circulation and the minimum number
of curb cuts onto the public roadway.
(4) Access improvements and curb cut consolidation may be required.
The proposed facility will not affect formal parking areas. The proposed facility will provide for
indoor parking of maintenance vehicles. Staff considers this criterion met.
D. Buffer strip. Properties in the Airport, Mixed Industrial Commercial, Industrial Open Space
and Airport Industrial districts that abut residential districts shall provide a screen or buffer along
the abutting line, as per Section 3.06(I) (buffers).
#SP‐19‐35
Staff Comments
Staff considers this criterion not applicable due to the Project’s location within the interior of the
airport property.
12.03 Stormwater Management Standards
3. The Assistant Stormwater Superintendent provided comments to the applicant on their
proposed oil water separator by email on September 27, 2019, but otherwise by verbal
conversation indicated the stormwater system appears to meet the requirements of 12.03.
The applicant provided updated materials to the Assistant Stormwater Superintendent on
October 8. Staff anticipates they will have an update at the time of the hearing.
SITE PLAN REVIEW STANDARDS
14.6 General Review Standards
Section 14.06 of the South Burlington Land Development Regulations establishes the following general
review standards for all site plan applications:
A. Relationship of Proposed Development to the City of South Burlington Comprehensive Plan. Due
attention by the applicant should be given to the goals and objectives and the stated land use
policies for the City of South Burlington as set forth in the Comprehensive Plan.
The project is located in the northeast quadrant, whose objectives as stated in the comprehensive
plan are to allow opportunities for employers in need of large amounts of space provided they are
compatible with the operation of the airport, and to provide a balanced mix of recreation, resource
conservation and business park opportunities in the south end of the quadrant. Staff considers that
the proposed use is compatible with the airport. The site is not located in the south end of the
quadrant. The land use policy for this area is medium to higher intensity, principally non‐residential.
Staff considers this criterion met.
B. Relationship of Proposed Structures to the Site.
(1) The site shall be planned to accomplish a desirable transition from structure to site, from
structure to structure, and to provide for adequate planting, safe pedestrian movement,
and adequate parking areas.
The building addition is proposed to be constructed of pre‐engineered steel. Based on
available imagery, the existing maintenance building is slightly visible to the public from the
end of Customs Drive, and is constructed of what appears to be EFIS or stucco. It is adjacent
to an existing brick maintenance building, and other buildings on Customs Drive appear to be
constructed of vertical steel panels. Staff is not particularly concerned about the construction
of the building except to ensure the materials are high‐quality and long lasting. The applicant
has not proposed any plantings, which is discussed under 14.07D below. As there is no new
interaction with the public right of way, Staff considers pedestrian movement to be not
applicable. The proposed addition does appear to result in the removal of four existing
parking spaces on the west side of the existing maintenance building.
4. Staff recommends the Board discuss ask the applicant for what those four parking spaces are
used, and discuss whether their removal will be detrimental to the adequacy of parking areas.
The applicant has stated they will be prepared to provide a narrative description of parking at
the hearing.
(2) Parking:
#SP‐19‐35
Staff Comments
(a) Parking shall be located to the rear or sides of buildings. Any side of a building facing a
public street shall be considered a front side of a building for the purposes of this subsection.
No new parking is proposed. Staff considers the parking to be removed is located to the front
of the building relative to Customs Drive.
(2) Without restricting the permissible limits of the applicable zoning district, the height and
scale of each building shall be compatible with its site and existing or anticipated adjoining
buildings.
The 5,400 sq. ft. expansion is proposed to be the same height as the existing building it will be
added on to, with a sloped roof. The resulting building will be in similar size to adjacent buildings.
14.07 Specific Review Standards
In all Zoning Districts and the City Center Form Based Codes District, the following standards shall apply:
A. Access to Abutting Properties. The reservation of land may be required on any lot for provision
of access to abutting properties whenever such access is deemed necessary to reduce curb cuts onto an
arterial or collector street, to provide additional access for emergency or other purposes, or to improve
general access and circulation in the area.
Staff considers that no additional land is needed to support access to abutting properties.
B. Utility Services. Electric, telephone and other wire‐served utility lines and service connections
shall be underground insofar as feasible and subject to state public utilities regulations. Any utility
installations remaining above ground shall be located so as to have a harmonious relation to
neighboring properties and to the site. Standards of Section 15.13, Utility Services, shall also be met.
5. The project requires one existing overhead utility pole to be relocated. Staff considers the scale of the
project does not warrant the utilities being located underground. Staff recommends the Board discuss
whether the overhead electric should be located underground. The applicant has indicated they will
review with GMP what it would require to relocate the utilities underground, and be prepared to
provide an update at the hearing.
C. Disposal of Wastes. All dumpsters and other facilities to handle solid waste, including
compliance with any recycling, composting, or other requirements, shall be accessible, secure and
properly screened with opaque fencing to ensure that trash and debris do not escape the enclosure(s).
Small receptacles intended for use by households or the public (ie, non‐dumpster, non‐large drum) shall
not be required to be fenced or screened.
The applicant is not proposing any new solid waste handling facilities. Staff considers this criterion met
as part of prior site plan applications.
D. Landscaping and Screening Requirements. See Article 13, Section 13.06 Landscaping, Screening,
and Street Trees.
13.06 Landscaping, Screening, and Street Trees
A. Purpose. The City of South Burlington recognizes the importance of trees, vegetation, and well‐
planned green spaces in bringing nature into the city and using these as a resource in promoting the
health, safety, and welfare of city residents through improved drainage, water supply recharge,
#SP‐19‐35
Staff Comments
flood control, air quality, sun control, shade, and visual relief. Landscaping and screening shall be
required for all uses subject to site plan and planned unit development review. Street tree planting
shall be required for all public streets in a subdivision or planned unit development. In evaluating
landscaping, screening, and street tree plan requirements, the Development Review Board shall
promote the retention of existing trees while encouraging the use of recommended plant species.
In making its decisions, the Development Review Board may refer to the Vermont Tree Selection
Guide, published by the Vermont Urban & Community Forestry Program and/or the
recommendation of the City Arborist.
Pursuant to Section 13.06(A) of the proposed Land Development Regulations, landscaping and
screening is required for all uses subject to site plan and planned unit development review. The
minimum landscape requirement for this project is determined by Table 13‐9 of the South Burlington
Land Development Regulations. The total cost of the building is estimated at $250,000 by the applicant,
requiring a minimum of $7,500 in new landscaping. In evaluating landscaping requirements, some
credit may be granted for existing trees or for site improvements other than tree planting as long as
the objectives of 13.06G(3) are not reduced. At recent site plan hearings for the airport, the Board
indicated they were willing to consider locations for landscaping not immediately adjacent to
proposed buildings, when it was illogical to locate landscaping at the building itself.
6. The applicant has not proposed any landscaping. Staff recommends the Board require the
applicant to provide the minimum required landscaping value in trees and shrubs.
Staff has encouraged the applicant to develop a landscape “master plan” which they can add to
each time they develop another project within the Airport PUD. The applicant has indicated they
will do this prior to the next application, but they wish to enhance an existing landscape area for
this project. They have not yet provided a landscaping proposal.
13.06B(6) Snow Storage
Snow storage areas must be specified and located in an area that minimizes the potential for erosion
and contaminated runoff into any adjacent or nearby surface waters.
7. The applicant has not shown snow storage on the provided site plan. Staff recommends the
Board discuss this with the applicant.
E. Modification of Standards. Except within the City Center Form Based Code District, where the
limitations of a site may cause unusual hardship in complying with any of the standards above and
waiver therefrom will not endanger the public health, safety or welfare, the Development Review Board
may modify such standards as long as the general objectives of Article 14 and the City's Comprehensive
Plan are met. However, in no case shall the DRB permit the location of a new structure less than five (5)
feet from any property boundary and in no case shall be the DRB allow land development creating a
total site coverage exceeding the allowable limit for the applicable zoning district in the case of new
development, or increasing the coverage on sites where the pre‐existing condition exceeds the
applicable limit.
Staff considers that no modification of standards is necessary.
F Low Impact Development. The use of low impact site design strategies that minimize site
disturbance, and that integrate structures, landscaping, natural hydrologic functions, and various other
techniques to minimize runoff from impervious surfaces and to infiltrate precipitation into underlying
soils and groundwater as close as is reasonable practicable to where it hits the ground, is required
#SP‐19‐35
Staff Comments
pursuant to the standards contained within Article 12.
See discussion of stormwater management standards above.
G. Standards for Roadways, Parking and Circulation. Standards of Section 15.12 Standards for
Roadways, Parking, and Circulation shall be met.
No new public roadways are proposed. The applicant has illustrated on their site plan how vehicle circulation
will operate at the proposed building addition.
8. Staff recommends the Board review the circulation but require the applicant to remove the arrows from
the plan as a condition of approval to prevent confusion as to whether the arrows need to be painted on
the ground.
SECTION 12.02 WETLAND PROTECTION STANDARDS
These standards apply to all lands within 50‐feet of a wetland.
(1) Consistent with the purposes of this Section, encroachment into wetlands and buffer areas
is generally discouraged.
The applicant is proposing an unknown square footage of Class II wetland buffer impacts. The
buffer is being impacted for the purpose of grading and a new stormwater outfall.
(2) Encroachment into Class II wetlands is permitted by the City only in conjunction with
issuance of a Conditional Use Determination (CUD) by the Vermont Department of
Environmental Conservation and positive findings by the DRB pursuant to the criteria in (3)
below.
9. The applicant has not submitted any information indicating the State DEC has approved the
impacts. The applicant has indicated they intend to submit to the State DEC for approval as
an allowed use prior to the continued hearing. Staff recommends the Board require evidence
of this request being made prior to closing the hearing, and that the Board require issuance of
the State DEC permit prior to issuance of a zoning permit.
(3) Encroachment into Class II wetland buffers, Class III wetlands and Class III wetland buffers,
may be permitted by the DRB upon finding that the proposed project’s overall development,
erosion control, stormwater treatment system, provisions for stream buffering, and
landscaping plan achieve the following standards for wetland protection:
(a) The encroachment(s) will not adversely affect the ability of the property to carry or store
flood waters adequately;
The proposed impacts are a small portion of the overall wetland. Staff considers this criterion
met.
(b) The encroachment(s) will not adversely affect the ability of the proposed stormwater
treatment system to reduce sedimentation according to state standards;
The encroachment does not adversely affect the stormwater treatment system. Staff
considers this criterion met.
#SP‐19‐35
Staff Comments
(c) The impact of the encroachment(s) on the specific wetland functions and values identified
in the field delineation and wetland report is minimized and/or offset by appropriate
landscaping, stormwater treatment, stream buffering, and/or other mitigation measures.
10. The applicant has not provided a field delineation or wetland report, therefore Staff considers
this criterion cannot be evaluated at this time. The applicant has indicated they will provide
information on functions and values of the wetlands to allow the Board to evaluate whether
they’re impacted.
OTHER
16.03 Standards for Erosion Control during Construction
The applicant has included erosion control measures as part of their submitted site plan. Staff
recommends the Board require the applicant to amend their erosion control notes to comply with the
requirement to stabilize exposed soil within 48 hours of final grading.
13.14 Bicycle Parking and Storage
For this use, the applicant is required to provide one short term bicycle parking space for every 20,000
gross square feet of building area, or a minimum of two. At recent site plan hearings for the airport, the
applicant and the Board agreed it would make sense to address bicycle parking for the airport PUD in a
few discrete areas, as work in each area is proposed. This represents the first site plan application for the
Aviation Avenue area.
11. Staff considers the minimum required short‐term bicycle parking for this application is two, with two
long‐term bicycle parking spaces (two per tenant, required for a building expansion of more than 5,000
sf), but encourages the Board to discuss with the applicant the bicycle parking approach for the
Aviation Avenue area as a whole as agreed upon in the previous PUD amendment (#SD‐19‐07). The
applicant has indicated they only own two buildings; the maintenance building and the Aviatron
building southeast of the maintenance garage, and they intend to provide one inverted‐U type rack
outside and provide locking storage for two bicycles inside. Staff considers the Board should require
the applicant to indicate where the bicycle parking will be located prior to closing the hearing.
RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends that the applicant work with Staff and the Development Review Board to address the
issues herein.
Respectfully submitted,
___________________________
Marla Keene, Development Review Planner
575 Dorset Street South Burlington, VT 05403 tel 802.846.4106 fax 802.846.4101 www.sburl.com
TO: South Burlington Development Review Board
FROM: Marla Keene, Development Review Planner
SUBJECT: Reconsideration of SD‐19‐24 390 Market St Preliminary and Final Plat
DATE: October 15, 2019 Development Review Board meeting
Snyder‐Braverman Development Co., LLC has submitted preliminary and final plat application #SD‐19‐24 to
subdivide an existing 21.74 acre lot into six lots of 0.43 acres (Lot M1), 0.69 acres (Lot M2), 1.33 acres (Lot M3),
1.35 acres (Garden Street), 5.86 acres (Lot N) and 12.08 acres (Lot L), for the purpose of constructing Garden
Street and a project south of Garden Street on Lots M1, M2 and M3 which will be reviewed under separate site
plan application, 390 Garden Street.
The Board heard the application on September 4, 2019. Staff comments at that time were fairly limited and the
Board was supportive of the project. At the hearing, the applicant requested the Board allow the construction
of Garden Street to be phased, with the phase associated with first building south of Market Street being limited
to the section from Market Street to the proposed access drive to Lots M1, M2 and M3 (Stations 45+00 to
49+55.69). The Board considered the applicants request and closed the hearing.
Since the hearing, additional information from the Land Development Regulations, from the Department of
Public Works, and Fire Marshall’s office has been brought to the Board’s attention which affect the phasing of
Garden Street. Therefore at the September 17, 2019 hearing, the Board voted to reopen SD‐19‐24 for
reconsideration in order to take testimony on these three areas. Staff considers no changes have been made to
the proposed project, therefore this memorandum focuses on the phasing of Garden Street only. A draft decision
has been prepared for the Board and reflects the recommendations below.
Numbered items for the Board’s attention are in red.
8.04 Blocks, Streets and Alleys
A. General Standards
(1) Purpose. To implement the goals of the Comprehensive Plan and purposes of the City Center FBC
District, including transportation, economic development, creation of an active, pedestrian‐friendly
environment, and to implement the intent of block standards identified within the Building Envelope
Standards of each Transect Zone.
As an exempt area, block length is not applicable.
Staff considers the full length of Garden Street, from Stations 40+00 to 49+55.69, supports this criterion.
#SP‐19‐24
2
(2) Construction of Streets
(a) Where a building is proposed to be located on a lot that is adjacent to a new or extended street,
such street shall be constructed by the applicant pursuant to Article 15 and in accordance with
the requirements of Article 11, Street Typologies.
Staff considers the provided cross section meets the approved Garden Street cross section. At
the previous hearing, based on the absence of a phasing plan as part of application materials,
Staff recommended the Board include a condition requiring the applicant to complete
construction of the portion of the Garden Street from the south side of the right of way to the
north curb line, excluding pavement top coat, prior to issuance of a certificate of occupancy for
the first building south of Garden Street. Similarly, Staff recommended the Board include a
condition requiring the applicant to complete construction of the portion of the Garden Street
cross section from the north side of the right of way to the south curb line, excluding pavement
top coat, prior to issuance of a certificate of occupancy for the first building north of Garden
Street. The applicant requested instead that the Board allow them to construct the roadway
from station 45+00 to station 49+55.69 prior to issuance of a certificate of occupancy for the first
building south of Garden Street.
Regulatory requirements related to street construction include the following.
‐ 8.04A(5) Connectivity: All existing or proposed streets shall connect directly at each end to
another existing public street, or planned or proposed street listed as a qualifying street type
in the applicable BES. This requirement, however, shall not apply to the planned street
extending north from Barrett Street depicted on the City Center Form Based Code Primary &
Secondary Street & Block Standard applicability map.
‐ 8.04B(2) Public Facilities on the Official Map: Where a planned street or any other planned
public feature, facility, or improvement is shown on a parcel or lot on the Official Map, the
owner of such parcel or lot shall provide an irrevocable offer of dedication of such planned
street or planned public feature, facility for improvement to the City at the time of an
application for land development on such parcel or lot. In the event that the applicant proposes
a private street, a plan clearly depicting the area of such street shall be recorded in the land
records prior to the issuance of any zoning permit. The following additional standards shall
apply in either instance:
(a) Where applicable, the applicant shall construct such street in accordance with the
requirements of these Regulations;
(b) Where the street is proposed to be public, the minimum street right‐of‐way width shall
be as identified within Article 11, Street Typologies;
(c) Where the City identifies a specific Street Type on the Official Map, such street shall
comply with the standards for that street type in Article 11;
(d) – (e) pertain to variation of the location of the street from the Official Map and are not
applicable
- 15.12D(4) Connections to adjacent parcels.
(a) If the DRB finds that a roadway or recreation path extension or connection to an
adjacent property may or could occur in the future, whether through City action or
development of an adjacent parcel, the DRB shall require the applicant to construct the
#SP‐19‐24
3
roadway to the property line or contribute the cost of completing the roadway connection.
(b) In determining whether a connection to an adjacent property may or could occur, and
the location and configuration of such connection, the DRB may consider:
(i) The existence of planned roadways or recreation paths in the City’s Comprehensive
Plan, Official Map, or these Regulations;
(ii) The requirements of the Zoning District in which the adjacent property is located
and whether these Regulations allow additional development or development
density on the adjacent parcel;
(iii) The context of the proposed development’s setting in relation to the adjacent
property;
(iv) The presence of physical obstacles to such a connection, such as wetlands, water
bodies, or steep slopes;
(v) The presence of legal restrictions to development or use on the adjacent property;
and/or;
(vi) Any other information it deems necessary to make its determination.
Staff considers that taken in aggregate, the standards of 8.04A(5), 8.04B(2), 15.12D(4) dictate
that the Board must require the applicant to construct the roadway.
‐ 15.12J Street End Alternatives: Dead end street designs are shown in Figures 15‐1E through
15‐1H and are recommended only in residential districts. Hammerhead Turnaround designs, as
shown in Figures 15‐1F through 15‐1H are the City’s preferred street end configuration. Cul‐de‐
sac designs, as shown in Figure 15‐1E, are only allowed in residential districts. The length of a
dead‐end street shall be subject to the review and approval of the Fire Chief and City Engineer
and these Regulations. The number of dwelling units served by any dead end street, or system
of streets sharing a common single access to an arterial or collector street, shall not exceed
fifty (50) unless additional connections to other streets are approved by the Development
Review Board after consultation with the City Engineer and Director of Planning & Zoning.
1. The applicant is proposing approximately 120 units on Lots M1, M2 and M3. Therefore
Staff considers this standard requires the roadway to be connected.
Public works considerations related to this request include the following.
The Director of Public Works offers the following comments on the roadway connectivity.
Hello Marla,
The construction of the proposed project at 390 Garden Street is another step toward the City’s
long‐held goal of a fully developed City Center. This goal has always included proper
transportation land use policies to give users of all modes additional ways in and out of City
Center.
Today, the northern/western end of Garden Street exists as the driveway into the Healthy Living
and Trader Joe’s property. As we can all attest, this driveway is under stress presently given the
success of these land uses. There is no capacity to add volume from either a queueing or
capacity throughput standpoint without adding relief in the way of other options. In this case,
#SP‐19‐24
4
that specific other option is to build this half of Garden all the way to Market Street, enabling all
full access to a much larger transportation network.
As it exists today, the main roads in and around City Center (specifically Dorset Street and
Williston Road) have well‐known congestion and capacity issues for vehicles; additionally they
have limitations to pedestrians and cyclists. Opening up the network and the 390 Garden Street
property to choices is consistent with the City’s long stated goal of adding incremental relief to
our main transportation arteries and the intersections that serve them. Failing to do so will
exacerbate present problems beyond the manageable to the point where only the drastic
solutions (road widening, less time allotted for ped movements at signalized intersections, etc.)
exist, and those solutions would help us tread water, at best.
A fully built out City Center is reliant on a fully built out transportation system, inclusive of
roads, sidewalks and bike paths.
Below are excerpts from the City Center/Market Street project’s 2010 Environmental
Assessment, the Federal Highway permit to construct, for lack of a better term.
Project Need:
The proposed street network is needed both to facilitate transit and traffic within this
district, and to provide safe and efficient access to the buildable redevelopment parcels
and undeveloped upland that exists in this central portion of the City.
Transportation Evaluation:
The City Center Project is a publicly‐sponsored initiative to create the street
infrastructure needed to support the development of a traditional downtown district for
the City of South Burlington. From a transportation perspective, the proposed City
Center project not only provides the community an opportunity to minimize the impact
from future unplanned development on the Market Street transportation system, but
more importantly through the planning and design of this project, City Center can serve
to enhance the quality of life for those who live, work, and visit in the area. The street
infrastructure is purposely being planned and designed to be interconnected to bring
relief to and not have to rely on overburdened primary roadways and to encourage
pedestrian, bicycle and transit use in an effort to minimize the need to increase the
capacity of the surrounding road way system.
The above are the guiding principles upon which City Center was conceived and ultimately
approved by Federal Highway. Our first opportunity to make the roadway connections should
not fall short of these mandates.
Justin
One additional related consideration is that the Public Works department and Planning and
Zoning will not recommend acceptance the street until such time as a connection is made,
therefore private plowing will be required of this street, which has potentially negative impacts
on public safety for the proposed development lot.
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2. Should the Board determine the above‐referenced standards do not require the road to be
connected, Staff recommends the Board require the applicant to provide an update to the
traffic impact assessment reflecting not only the proposed development on the M‐lots but also
the other buildings which could be developed prior to construction of the next building fronting
only on Garden Street. Staff considers up to six additional buildings could be built on parcels
controlled by the applicant prior to the next on Garden Street.
Emergency Services considerations related to this request are as follows.
The Fire Chief offers the following comments on roadway connectivity.
Marla:
To memorialize the Fire Departments’ comments on this and other new development and
subsequent construction:
The applicant, and any subsequent applicant, shall comply with 2015 NFPA 1, Chapter 18 and
NFPA 241 in their entirety, as adopted by the Vermont Legislature in 20 VSA Chapter 173. These
adopted codes and standards set the minimum requirements for the fire and life safety
protection of, and clear unobstructed access to, buildings under construction. Failure to meet
these minimum requirements of state and local ordinances shall result in the denial of a
construction permit, until such time that the applicant’s project comes into compliance.
Terence Francis
Chief Engineer/Fire Marshal/Building Inspector
Further, National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) code requires the applicant to provide
access across the entire length of the building, and a turn‐around located past the end of the
building. Minimum access accepted by the NFPA is a hard stabilized surface 20‐feet wide. The
Fire Chief has stated that roadway structures (ie catchbasins and manholes) must be finished
flush with whatever stabilized surface is provided.
The applicant has submitted an application for miscellaneous approval to construct two storm
ponds at the south end of Garden Street, at approximately station 40+50. Staff has included an
excerpted sheet from that plan set to show where the storm ponds and their related
underground infrastructure are proposed to be located.
3. Staff considers that a turnaround of the minimum dimensions described in LDR Figures 15‐1F
through 15‐1H may not physically fit into the space available when given consideration to the
proposed storm ponds, and recommends the Board require the applicant to provide a phasing
plan showing the proposed configuration of the turnaround should the Board determine the
above‐referenced standards do not require the road be connected. Staff considers such a
phasing plan demonstrating the practicability of the turnaround should be required prior to
closing the hearing.
Taking into account NFPA requirements, Staff considers the practical value of not connecting
the roadway is extremely limited. The road must be constructed to within 125‐feet of the
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existing Garden Street segment, and with the additional pavement required for fire apparatus
turn‐around, Staff considers the cost savings to the applicant will be negligible.
Finally, State addressing standards dictate that an unconnected roadway would not be able to
be named Garden Street, and would require a temporary name until such time as the roadway
could be connected. All buildings on the unconnected segment would need to have a
temporary address. While this may seem a minor annoyance, the impact of changing
addresses on the approximately 120 residential units and the commercial space the applicant is
planning for the M‐lots should not be disregarded.
Recommendation
Staff recommends the Board require the applicant to construct the roadway from Market Street to the existing
bridge on Garden Street prior to issuance of a certificate of occupancy for the first building with frontage on
Garden Street. Staff recommends the Board include a condition requiring the applicant to complete construction
of the portion of the Garden Street from the south side of the right of way to the north curb line, excluding
pavement top coat, prior to issuance of a certificate of occupancy for the first building south of Garden Street.
Similarly, Staff recommends the Board include a condition requiring the applicant to complete construction of
the portion of the Garden Street cross section from the north side of the right of way to the south curb line,
excluding pavement top coat, prior to issuance of a certificate of occupancy for the first building north of Garden
Street.
Staff recommends the Board discuss the project with the applicant and close the hearing.
CITY OF SOUTH BURLINGTON
DEPARTMENT OF PLANNING AND ZONING
SNYDER BRAVERMAN DEVELOPMENT COMPANY, LLC
390 GARDEN STREET
PRELIMINARY AND FINAL PLAT APPLICATION #SD‐19‐24
FINDINGS OF FACT AND DECISION
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Preliminary and final plat application #SD‐19‐24 of Snyder‐Braverman Development Co., LLC to subdivide an
existing 21.74 acre lot into six lots of 0.43 acres (Lot M1), 0.69 acres (Lot M2), 1.33 acres (Lot M3), 1.35
acres (Garden Street), 5.86 acres (Lot N) and 12.08 acres (Lot L), for the purpose of constructing Garden
Street and a project south of Garden Street on Lots M1, M2 and M3 which will be reviewed under separate
site plan application, 390 Garden Street.
The Development Review Board held and closed a public hearing on Tuesday September 4, 2019. The
applicant was represented by Ken Braverman, Andy Rowe, and Tim McKenzie.
On September 17, 2019 the Board elected to re‐open the hearing in order to consider additional testimony
pertaining to the construction phasing of Garden Street
The Board held the re‐opened public hearing on Tuesday, October 15th.
Based on testimony provided at the above mentioned public hearings and the plans and supporting
materials contained in the document file for this application, the Development Review Board finds,
concludes, and decides the following:
FINDINGS OF FACT
1. The Project consists of subdividing a parcel into six (6) lots.
2. The owner of record of the subject properties is South Burlington City Center, LLC.
3. The application was received on August 12, 2019.
4. The subject property is located in the Form Based Code District Transect Zone 4 and Transect
Zone 5.
5. The plans submitted consist of four pages prepared by Lamoureux & Dickinson Consulting
Engineers, Inc., as follows.
Sheet No. Plan Title Plan Preparation Date
PL‐1 Subdivision Plat 7/15/2019
PL‐1 Subdivision Plat Draft Future Development* 7/29/2019
PL‐1 Subdivision Plat Draft Future Development* 7/29/2019
D1 Garden Street (South Segment) Concept Layout 8/12/2019
PL‐1 Subdivision Plat With Future Pedestrian Easements 7/15/2019**
*Two sheets were provided with the same name and date. The content is the same except one
shows existing contours.
**This plan was received by the Board on 9/4/2019 and was not part of the initial application
submittal
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6. The Sketch Plan application (#SD‐19‐16) for this project was heard by the Board on July 2, 2019.
7. The Applicant is proposing to subdivide one existing parcel into six lots in preparation for
development on Lots M1, M2 and M3. Lot L will include the stormwater treatment facility for
Lots M1, M2 and M3, as well as being planned for future subdivision and development. Plans
for future development of Lot N are not known at this time. Garden Street is a planned street
on the City’s official map. The development of Lots M1 through M3 will be subject to
administrative review through the Form Based Code process.
A) ZONING DISTRICT & DIMENSIONAL REQUIREMENTS
There are no minimum lot dimensions within the T4 or T5 zoning districts.
8.04 Blocks, Streets and Alleys
A. General Standards
(1) Purpose. To implement the goals of the Comprehensive Plan and purposes of the City Center
FBC District, including transportation, economic development, creation of an active, pedestrian‐
friendly environment, and to implement the intent of block standards identified within the
Building Envelope Standards of each Transect Zone.
Block length is discussed under standard (3) below.
The Board finds the remainder of this criterion met.
(2) Construction of Streets
(a) Where a building is proposed to be located on a lot that is adjacent to a new or extended
street, such street shall be constructed by the applicant pursuant to Article 15 and in
accordance with the requirements of Article 11, Street Typologies.
The Board finds the provided cross section meets the approved Garden Street cross
section.
Based on LDR Section 8.04A(5) pertaining to Connectivity, 8.04B(2) pertaining to Public
Facilities on the Official Map, 15.12D(4) pertaining to Connections to Adjacent Parcels,
and 15.12J pertaining to Street End Alternatives, as well as testimony pertaining to public
works and fire department considerations provided by Staff, the Board finds the applicant
must construct Garden Street from Market Street to the existing bridge on Garden Street
prior to issuance of a certificate of occupancy for the first building with frontage on
Garden Street. The applicant must complete construction of the portion of the Garden
Street from the south side of the right of way to the north curb line, excluding pavement
top coat, prior to issuance of a certificate of occupancy for the first building with frontage
south of Garden Street. Similarly, the applicant must complete construction of the
portion of the Garden Street cross section from the north side of the right of way to the
south curb line, excluding pavement top coat, prior to issuance of a certificate of
occupancy for the first building with frontage north of Garden Street.
(3) Perimeter and Length of Blocks. The minimum/maximum perimeters and lengths of any
block shall be determined by BES, except as otherwise provided for in this article.
As an exempt area, this standard is not applicable.
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(4) Frontage Buildout. Frontage buildout requirements for the applicable Transect Zone shall
apply along all streets pursuant to the BES.
The Board finds the applicant has demonstrated the lots proposed for development can meet the
frontage buildout requirements and the remaining lots are sufficiently large to be subdivided in a
way that meets frontage buildout in the future.
(5) Connectivity. All existing or proposed streets shall connect directly at each end to another
existing public street, or planned or proposed street listed as a qualifying street type in the
applicable BES. This requirement, however, shall not apply to the planned street extending
north from Barrett Street depicted on the City Center Form Based Code Primary & Secondary
Street & Block Standard applicability map.
The applicant has provided a conceptual site plan for the purpose of showing the configuration of
Garden Street within the subdivided ROW. The Board finds this criterion met.
(6) Build‐to‐Zones
The Board finds this criterion not applicable to this subdivision application.
B. Location of blocks and streets.
(1) Applicability of block lengths and perimeters.
The subject property is exempt from block lengths and perimeter standards
(2) Public Facilities on the Official Map: Where a planned street or any other planned public
feature, facility, or improvement is shown on a parcel or lot on the Official Map, the owner of
such parcel or lot shall provide an irrevocable offer of dedication of such planned street or
planned public feature, facility for improvement to the City at the time of an application for land
development on such parcel or lot. In the event that the applicant proposes a private street, a
plan clearly depicting the area of such street shall be recorded in the land records prior to the
issuance of any zoning permit. The following additional standards shall apply in either instance:
The proposed City right of way for Garden Street is shown on the official map. The Board has no
concerns with this project’s compliance with the official map. There are other roads within the
proposed lot shown on the official map. Pursuant to 24 VSA 4421, Official Map, planned public
facilities must be accommodated in a proposed development.
In a recent decision, #MS‐19‐02, the Administrative Officer denied an application for stormwater
facilities to be constructed on the western segment of Lot L. The reason for the denial is that
pursuant to 24 VSA 4421 the applicant failed to accommodate planned public facilities. That
action has triggered the City Council’s obligation to consider whether to acquire the planned
north‐south roadway segment within Lots N and L. City Council has declined to do so. Therefore
the applicant is no longer obligated to provide an irrevocable offer for the planned north‐south
street. The current proposal does not preclude the east‐west roadway located within Lot N. At
such time as development on Lot N is contemplated, this east west roadway will need to be
addressed.
The Board finds this criterion met.
(a) Where applicable, the applicant shall construct such street in accordance with the
requirements of these Regulations;
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(b) N/A
(c) Where the City identifies a specific Street Type on the Official Map, such street shall
comply with the standards for that street type in Article 11;
(d) – (e) N/A
The applicant is proposing to construct the portion of Garden Street in accordance with the
approved Garden Street cross section. An offer of dedication will be made prior to site plan
approval for development of the subdivided lots. The Board finds this criterion met.
C. – E. N/A
F. Alleys. Alleys are encouraged in the City Center Form Based Code (FBC) District to minimize curb
cuts and to provide access to parking and service areas behind buildings. Alley locations and
dimensions are not fixed but shall be designed to accommodate the alley’s purpose.
No alleys are proposed. Applicant is proposing one curb cut to serve Lots M1, M2 and M3 and the
adjacent portion of Lot L which will comply with 8.13(D)(4) pertaining to curb cut spacing. The
Board finds this criterion met.
11.02C Street Type Standards
(1) Street, streetscape and any other construction or improvements along or within the existing or
proposed right‐of‐way for Market Street, Garden Street and Midas Drive and for the Williston
Road intersections of Midas Street/White Street and Patchen Road/Hinesburg Road shall
conform to engineered plans developed by the City and as modified by the Director of Public
Works.
The proposed Garden Street cross section conforms to the cross section approved by City Council.
The Board finds this criterion met.
A) ARTICLE 13 SUPPLEMENTAL REGULATIONS
13.06 Landscaping, Screening and Street Trees
13.14 Bicycle Parking & Storage
13.17 Fences
13.18 Utility Cabinets
The applicant has provided a draft site plan for the purposes of showing the proposed configuration for
Garden Street and how the development on Lots M1, M2 and M3 is proposed to be generally configured.
The applicable standards of Article 13 will be reviewed as part of the site plan application for the Form
Based Code district.
B) 15.18 CRITERIA FOR REVIEW OF PUDS, SUDVIDISIONS, TRANSECT ZONE SUBDIVISIONS AND MASTER
PLANS
Standards (1), (2), (6), and (7) pertain specifically to site design and are not applicable for review of
this subdivision.
(3) The project incorporates access, circulation and traffic management strategies sufficient to
prevent unreasonable congestion of adjacent roads. In making this finding the DRB may rely
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on the findings of a traffic study submitted by the applicant, and the findings of any
technical review by City staff or consultants.
The applicant is proposing a 64‐foot right of way to be subject to an irrevocable offer of
dedication to the City of South Burlington for the purposes of a future public street. The
construction of the public street will be completed by the applicant prior to the City’s
acceptance, and the phasing of such construction is discussed above.
The applicant is proposing a 50‐foot wide shared access easement for the purposes of
providing primary vehicular access to proposed Lots M1, M2 and M3 as well as the adjacent
portion of Lot L.
The Board finds this criterion met.
(4) The project’s design respects and will provide suitable protection to wetlands, streams,
wildlife habitat as identified in the Open Space Strategy, and any unique natural features
on the site. In making this finding the DRB shall utilize the provisions of Article 12 of these
Regulations related to wetlands and stream buffers, and may seek comment from the
Natural Resources Committee with respect to the project’s impact on natural resources.
At this time, the applicant is not proposing any development for the subdivided parcels. The
applicant has indicated that in the near future, their intent is to develop Lots M1 and M2 with
buildings, Lot M3 with parking, and the western portion of Lot L with a stormwater facility.
Plans for the remainder of Lot L and for all of Lot N are unknown at this time. The Board
approved a conditional use application (#CU‐18‐01) for the proposed wetland impacts of the
overall development.
(5) The project is designed to be visually compatible with the planned development patterns in
the area, as specified in the Comprehensive Plan and the purpose of the zoning district(s) in
which it is located. For Transect Zone subdivisions, this standard shall apply only to the
location of lot lines, streets and street types, and natural resources identified in Article XII
of these Regulations.
The Board finds the proposed transect zone subdivision creates lots which facilitate the type
of dense development prioritized for the Form Based Code district.
(8) Roads, recreation paths, stormwater facilities, sidewalks, landscaping, utility lines and
lighting have been designed in a manner that is compatible with the extension of such
services and infrastructure to adjacent properties. For Transect Zone subdivisions, this
standard shall only apply to the location and type of roads, recreation paths, and sidewalks.
The Board finds the proposed Garden Street type and configuration compatible with the
official map. Related approvals for this parcel include a recreation path connection to
Dumont Park through the location of the south end of Lot M2. The applicant has provided a
drawing showing how the future pedestrian easement locations can be accommodated by
the proposed subdivision. The Board finds this criterion met.
(9) Roads, utilities, sidewalks, recreation paths, and lighting are designed in a manner that is
consistent with City utility and roadway plans and maintenance standards, absent a specific
agreement with the applicant related to maintenance that has been approved by the City
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Council. For Transect Zone subdivisions, this standard shall only apply to the location and
type of roads, recreation paths, and sidewalks.
As discussed pertaining to Section 8.04 above, the proposed Garden Street location is
compatible with the official map and the cross section is consistent with the approved cross
section for Garden Street.
(10) The project is consistent with the goals and objectives of the Comprehensive Plan for the
affected district(s).
The Project is located in the Central District. The objectives of the central district pertain to
creation of a City Center with a strong identity and mix of uses, including residential and non‐
residential uses, open spaces areas, and centralized stormwater management features.
Emphasis is given to promotion of interconnectivity which will result in minimizing parking
demand. The Board finds this criterion met.
(11) The project’s design incorporates strategies that minimize site disturbance and integrate
structures, landscaping, natural hydrologic functions, and other techniques to generate less
runoff from developed land and to infiltrate rainfall into underlying soils and groundwater
as close as possible to where it hits the ground. For Transect Zone subdivisions, this standard
shall apply only to the location of natural resources identified in Article XII of these
Regulations.
The Board approved a conditional use application (#CU‐18‐01) for the proposed wetland
impacts for the overall development. The Board finds this criterion met.
DECISION
Motion by ___, seconded by ___, to approve Preliminary and Final Plat Application #SD‐19‐24 of Snyder
Braverman Development Co., LLC, subject to the following stipulations:
1. All previous approvals and stipulations will remain in full effect except as amended herein.
2. This project must be completed as shown on the plat submitted by the applicant and on file in the
South Burlington Department of Planning and Zoning.
3. The plat must be revised to show the changes below and shall require approval of the
Administrative Officer. One copy of the approved revised plat must be submitted to the
Administrative Officer prior to recording the final plat plan.
a. Provide the signature of the land surveyor.
4. Pursuant to Section 15.13(E) of the Land Development Regulations, any new utility lines, services,
and service modifications must be underground.
5. The proposed project must adhere to standards for erosion control as set forth in Section 16.03 of
the South Burlington Land Development Regulations. In addition, the grading plan must meet the
standards set forth in Section 16.04 of the South Burlington Land Development Regulations.
6. Any changes to the final plat plan will require approval of the South Burlington Development Review
Board.
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7. The final plat plan (Boundary Subdivision Plat) must be recorded in the land records within 180 days
or this approval is null and void. The plats shall be signed by the Board Chair or Clerk prior to
recording.
8. A digital PDF version of the approved final plat must be delivered to the Administrative Officer
before recording the final plat plan.
9. A digital file consisting of an ArcGIS or AutoCAD formatted file of the proposed subdivision, including
property lines, easements, and rights of way, either georeferenced or shown in relation to four
easily identifiable fixed points such as manholes, utility poles or hydrants, must be provided to the
Administrative Officer before recording the final plat plan. The format of the digital information shall
require approval of the South Burlington GIS Coordinator.
10. Parking of construction vehicles will be restricted to one side of the road to maintain Fire
Department access during construction.
11. Unless the City of South Burlington has full fee simply ownership prior to the issuance of a zoning
permit for construction of the roadway, the following conditions apply:
a. Prior to recording the final plat plans, all appropriate legal documents including
easements (e.g. irrevocable offer of dedication and warranty deed for the proposed
public road, and utility, sewer, drainage, and water, etc.) shall be submitted to the City
Attorney for approval and recorded in the South Burlington Land Records.
b. Pursuant to Section 15.17 of the Land Development Regulations, the applicant must
submit a Certificate of Title showing the ownership of all property and easements to be
dedicated or acquired by the City to be approved by the City Attorney prior to recording
the final plat plans.
c. In accordance with Section 15.14(E) (2) of the Land Development Regulations, within 14
days of the completion of the public facilities and improvements, the applicant must
submit to the City Engineer “as‐built” construction drawings certified by a licensed
engineer.
d. Section 15.15A of the Land Development Regulations addresses Performance Bonds,
Escrow Accounts and Letters of Credits for Public Facilities and Improvements. Prior to
start of the improvements described in #12 below, the applicant shall post a landscape
bond for the street trees, which shall remain in effect for three (3) years. The amount of
the bond will be determined as part of Site Plan review related to subsequent
application(s).
e. Prior to start of construction of the improvements described in condition #12 below, the
applicant shall post a bond which covers the cost of said improvements plus 15%
contingency, the amount of which must be approved by the City Engineer as part of Site
Plan review related to subsequent application(s).
12. The applicant must construct Garden Street from Market Street to the existing bridge on Garden
Street prior to issuance of a certificate of occupancy for the first building with frontage on
Garden Street. The applicant must complete construction of the portion of the Garden Street
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from the south side of the right of way to the north curb line, excluding pavement top coat,
prior to issuance of a certificate of occupancy for the first building with frontage south of
Garden Street. Similarly, the applicant must complete construction of the portion of the Garden
Street cross section from the north side of the right of way to the south curb line, excluding
pavement top coat, prior to issuance of a certificate of occupancy for the first building with
frontage north of Garden Street.
13. Street trees must be in place along the street prior to adding the final layer of the pavement.
Mark Behr Yea Nay Abstain Not Present
Matt Cota Yea Nay Abstain Not Present
Jim Langan Yea Nay Abstain Not Present
Dawn Philibert 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 October 2019, by
_____________________________________
Matt Cota, 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 with the Superior Court,
Environmental Division. See V.R.E.C.P. 5(b). A copy of the notice of appeal also must 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‐
951‐1740 or https://www.vermontjudiciary.org/environmental
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.
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DEVELOPMENT REVIEW BOARD 1 October 2019
The South Burlington Development Review Board held a regular meeting on Tuesday, 1
October 2019, at 7:00 p.m. in the Conference Room, City Hall, 575 Dorset Street.
MEMBERS PRESENT: B. Sullivan, Acting Chair; M. Behr, D. Philibert, J. Langan
ALSO PRESENT: D. Hall, Administrative Officer; M. Keene, Development Review Planner; D.
Marshall, D. Kerwin, J. Illick, M. Abrams, E. Sternberg, D. Saladino, B. Dousevicz, B. DeLaBrere, S.
Baker, B. Curley, C. Starr, L. Dagostino, K. Darr
1. Directions on emergency evacuation procedures from conference room:
Mr. Sullivan provided directions on emergency evacuation procedures.
2. Additions, deletions, or changes in order of agenda items:
Agenda item #7 has been continued to 15 October.
3. Comments and questions from the public not related to the Agenda:
No issues were raised.
4. Announcements:
There were no announcements.
5. Sketch Plan Application #SD‐19‐28 of Donald & Lois Kerwin to subdivide an existing 2‐
acre parcel developed with a single family home into two parcels of 1.2 acres (Lot 1)
and 0.8 acres (lot 2) for the purpose of constructing a single family home on lot 2,
1420 Hinesburg Road:
Mr. Marshall showed a plan of the Kerwin property and identified the streets in the area. He
noted that the lot on the east side will be lot #2. Mr. Marshall also noted that they have been
to the City Council to address Interim Zoning. They cannot do a 4‐lot subdivision because of
TDR issues at this time, so they are doing this subdivision to have the existing home on its own
lot. The property cannot be served by municipal water, but it will be hooked up to the
municipal sewer.
Mr. Behr asked where this property is in relation to the previous four lot subdivision on
Highland Terrace. Mr. Marshall showed this on an overhead photo. Mr. Behr felt this proposal
DEVELOPMENT REVIEW BOARD
1 OCTOBER 2019
PAGE 2
will be similar to the Highland Terrace subdivision but not as dense. He also noted that if the
TDR issues get resolved, the applicant can come in for 2 more lots. Mr. Marshall said that is the
intent.
Mr. Abrams said this is a 40‐year old established neighborhood, and recently more houses are
being built closer to the street which has changed the character of the area. He felt the current
proposal will affect his property values and his financial and physical health.
Ms. Sternberg said she has testified on similar topics and cited the importance of green spaces
for health. She offered the Board a document on the importance of even small green spaces.
She felt the current proposal seems to be going “opposite to sustainability.”
Mr. Behr said the zoning code aims to create more density in pockets of development and
larger blocks of open space in perpetuity. This particular property is to have higher density. He
also noted the Board enforces the regulations, and this application falls under the zoning code.
Ms. Keene said that Mr. Abrams could talk to his neighbors regarding the possibility of saving
some of the trees. Ms. Philibert asked whether Ms. Sternberg was aware of the LDR requiring
parks in new developments in the district.
Mr. Abrams said he also has an issue with cutting new driveways on Highland Terrace.
Mr. Sullivan noted receipt of emails from Mr. Abrams and Ms. Sternberg and also an email from
Linda Luxenberg who supports this proposal.
6. Continued final plat application #SD‐19‐21 of Rye Associates, LLC, to amend a
previously approved planned unit development consisting of 36 single family
dwellings, four 4‐unit multi‐family dwellings, and three commercial buildings. The
amendment consists of an after‐the‐face request to reduce the rear yard setback for
Lot 7, containing seven single family dwelling units on Fall Street, from 20 feet to 13
feet, 1075 Hinesburg Road:
Mr. Dousevicz addressed staff comments:
1. The setback waiver would have to apply to the whole of lot 7. Mr. Dousevicz agreed it
would.
2. Mr. Dousevicz said they will remove the dotted lines.
3. Staff recommends the Board consider the park standards. Mr. Dousevicz said the park is
2.5 acres in the middle which will be deeded to the city as a park. The playground is
being used extensively. Even though the proposed deck will get closer to the park, it
DEVELOPMENT REVIEW BOARD
1 OCTOBER 2019
PAGE 3
won’t make the park any smaller. There are also still good back yards for all those
homes.
Ms. Keene noted that the DRB had wanted good demarcation between the homes and the
park. She noted that the boulders are in the park, not on the line as suggested they be moved.
Mr. Dousevicz said the contractor told him they are on the line, but it they are not, they will be
moved.
Ms. Keene also said that because this is an “all or nothing” situation, there would have to be a
condition that no other lot can build into the setback.
Ms. Philibert asked at what point does the Board say the LDRs exist for predictability, and we
gave the applicant some fair waivers. Mr. Dousevicz said it was their mistake because they
rarely have to be concerned with rear yard setbacks. They are already working to be sure this
doesn’t happen with any other units. They just want to fix the problem on this one lot. The
other alternative they have is to cut the deck in half and have steps down to the patio.
Mr. Behr asked if this was where they were going to have the “cottage concept.” Mr. Dousevicz
said that wasn’t for this lot because it wouldn’t fit in.
Mr. Behr said his issue with the waiver is that this would be the only one sticking into the
setback, and he was inclined not to approve it. Otherwise, he thought it was a nice
development.
There was no public comment.
Ms. Philibert moved to close SD‐19‐21. Mr. Behr seconded. Motion passed 4‐0.
7. Continued Preliminary and Final Plat Application #SD‐19‐22 of SunCap Property Group
to resubdivide five lots (#8B, 9, 10, 11 & 12) and one easement into four lots of 6.9
acres (Lot 8B), 43.8 acres (Lot 9), 6.7 acres (Lot 11) and 6.6 acres (Lot 12), and
eliminate the previously approved City street Community Way, for the purpose of
constructing an approximately 144,000 sq. ft. warehousing and distribution center,
635 Community Drive: and
8. Continued site plan Application #SP‐19‐28 of SunCap Property Group to construct a
144,000 sq. ft., 35 ft. high warehouse building, paved equipment storage and parking
areas, and associated site improvements on a proposed 42.8 acre lot, and widen and
Signalize the east intersection of Community Drive and Kimball Avenue, 635
Community Drive: and
DEVELOPMENT REVIEW BOARD
1 OCTOBER 2019
PAGE 4
9. Continued Conditional Use Application #CU‐19‐06 of SunCap Property Group to allow
a fence approximately sixteen feet in height for the purpose of supporting a gate for a
warehouse and distribution center, 635 Community Drive:
Ms. Keene noted new items since the last hearing: a revised lighting plan and an updated noise
study. The Board also needs to decide whether to recommend to the City Council that the
Council address whether to grant an impact fee waiver.
Mr. Sullivan noted receipt of letters from Ms. Leban and Dr. Caballero‐Manrique regarding
lighting. The Board retroactively authorized the technical review of lighting which has occurred.
One issue found in the review regarded flood fixtures. The levels have been reduced and the
angle is OK. Some fixtures have been removed. They now quantitively meet the LDRs.
Mr. Illick said he would testify that they meet the regulations. This parking lot is half the size of
the next parking lot, and they don’t abut any residential properties. Mr. Illick said he owns the
adjacent property and has no issue with it. The parking lot does have motion sensors now in
response to Ms. Leban comments.
Regarding the impact fee waiver, Ms. Keene said the Council has the ultimate authority, but
looks to the Board to make a recommendation on whether to grant the waiver.
Mr. Illick said the intersection is already at a troubled level of service, and this development will
exacerbate it. They are contributing 15% of the traffic, so they shouldn’t have to bear the full
burden, and 85% of the signal cost should be offset. Ms. Keene said the total for the signal
$477,000.
Mr. Behr said he supports the request because of all the improvements. A rec path has been
constructed, and the applicant is maintaining that well‐used path.
Staff comments were then addressed:
1. Regarding view lines Mr. Illick showed sight line from the viewpoint of a driver. The
driver can see the top of the building but not a trailer.
2. Landscaping and signage: The applicant was OK with the “boiler plate” item.
Mr. Sullivan asked about noise. Ms. Keene said staff is satisfied with the memo from the
applicant regarding noise.
There was no public comment.
DEVELOPMENT REVIEW BOARD
1 OCTOBER 2019
PAGE 5
Regarding the issue of a child care facility, Mr. Illick said this is a positive in an industrial park.
The outside area is fenced, so the children are safe.
Mr. Behr moved to close SD‐19‐22, SP‐19‐28 and CU‐19‐06. Mr. Langan seconded. Motion
passed 4‐0.
10. Minutes of 4 and 17 September 2019:
Ms. Philibert moved to approve the Minutes of 4 & 17 September as written. Mr. Behr
seconded. Motion passed 4‐0.
11. Other Business:
No other issues were brought to the Board.
As there was no further business to come before the Board, the meeting was adjourned by
common consent at 8: 22 p.m.
These minutes were approved by the Board on ___