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DEVELOPMENT REVIEW BOARD 29 JANUARY 2019
The South Burlington Development Review Board held a regular meeting on Tuesday, 29
January 2020, at 7:00 p.m. in the Conference Room, City Hall, 575 Dorset Street.
MEMBERS PRESENT: B. Miller, Chair; M. Cota, B. Sullivan, J. Wilking, M. Behr (via telephone), J.
Smith, F. Kochman
ALSO PRESENT: D. Hall, Administrative Officer; M. Keene, Development Review Planner; S. & D.
Partilo, B. Tolmie, J. Wilking, R. Rushford, J. Stern, A. & A. Chalnick, J. Olesky, J. Bullister, S.
Dopp, R. Greco, T. Perrepato, D. Murdoch, B. Bartlett, N. Hymen, D. Seff, D. Crawford, J.
Messina. K Willttegs, D. Peters, A. Shields, C. Montgomery, P. Kahn
1. Directions on emergency evacuation procedures from conference room:
Mr. Miller provided directions on emergency evacuation procedures.
2. Additions, deletions, or changes in order of agenda items:
No changes were made to the agenda.
3. Comments and questions from the public not related to the Agenda:
No issues were raised.
4. Announcements:
Mr. Miller advised that there will be 2 openings on the DRB in July.
5. Sketch Plan Application k#SD‐18‐35 of SeaComm Federal Credit Union to construct a
one‐story 3500 sq. ft. financial institution with 3 drive‐through lanes and 20 parking
spaces on one acre, 1680 Shelburne Road:
Mr. Miller read information regarding the nature of a sketch plan.
Mr. Olesky said the project is on a one‐acre, undeveloped property that was associated with
the Bartlett Brook apartment building project. The existing Route 7 curb cut that serves the
apartment building will also serve this project. He indicated the location of the curb cut on the
plan. The project will also be served by municipal water and sewer and will tie into the existing
sidewalk.
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29 JANUARY 2019
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Mr. Olesky showed a plan of the overall existing site and showed the location of Bartlett Brook.
He noted there is some mature vegetation on the site. They have indicated three that will be
kept and those to be removed.
The proposal is to build a 3500 sq. ft. financial/banking building as close to the front yard
setback as possible. Mr. Olesky showed where vehicles would enter the site. The parking is to
the left, and there is a looped traffic pattern to the right leading to the drive‐through lanes and
a bypass lane. Those lanes would merge into one single exit lane. The building will also be
accessible from a front entrance from an extension of the sidewalk. Because of the change in
grade, there will be a few steps up from the sidewalk with a handrail. There will be no impact
on the roadway during construction.
Mr. Olesky said the plan will take advantage of the existing stormwater treatment which meets
all local and state standards.
The large pine tree would be in the building foot print, and Mr. Olesky did not feel it could be
saved. The other large trees at the west end of the parking lot will probably also not be
maintained, but they will re‐evaluate that. The trees on the north property line will be
retained. The project will supplement existing landscaping that was put in for the apartment
project.
Staff comments were then addressed as follows:
1. The applicant will comply with dimensional requirements and lot coverage.
2. They haven’t yet addressed compliance with the urban design district
standards. Ms. Keene noted that has to be one entry facing the road, a
separate walkway from the road, and 40% glazing on the building front. The
applicant said they should be able to meet those standards. They also did
not see any issue with compatibility with development patterns in the area.
The building height will be in the high 20’s (35 is the allowable maximum).
Mr. Miller commented that he liked the idea of a taller foyer area. Mr. Behr
said the building should be the right scale for the site. Mr. Wilking cautioned
against too much height because of views from the apartments. Mr. Olesky
noted that the slope continues up, so views from the apartments aren’t
blocked.
3. Mr. Olesky repeated his previous analysis of trees which can and cannot be
saved. Ms. Keene noted that none of the trees are required to be saved as
they are not part of the previous plan. Mr. Olesky noted that if the trees
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29 JANUARY 2019
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were closer to the road, there wouldn’t be a problem saving them. Members
were OK with removing the trees.
6. Continued Master Plan Application #MP‐18‐01 and preliminary plat application #SD‐
18‐29 of Dorset Meadows Associates, LLC, for a planned unit development on 2 lots
developed with one single family swelling. The planned unit development is to consist
of 103 single family homes, 26 dwelling units in 2‐family homes, 20 dwelling units in
multi‐family homes, one existing single family home, conservation of 15.80 acres on
site and conservation of 55 acres off site through the purchase of 66.4 Transfer of
Development Rights, 1505 Dorset Street:
Messrs. Wilking and Sullivan stepped down due to a potential conflict of interest.
Mr. Miller asked Mr. Rushford for his response to Mr. Seff’s letter which states that a large part
of the land is non‐developable.
Mr. Rushford said the issue is the restricting of development because of Map #7. He cited the
JAM Golf and Molgano cases as to the nature of a Comprehensive Plan. He noted that a
municipality does not have to adopt everything in a comprehensive plan and added that the
what Mr. Seff quoted is not in the Land Development Regulations (LDRs).
Mr. Rushford said the LDRs designate receiving and sending areas. In the JAM Golf case, the
Court noted the tension between the Comprehensive Plan and the LDRs. Map 7 is a tool to
identify important resource areas. Mr. Rushford noted that Map 7 has disclaimers that indicate
the need for field verification. He said the applicant did get that verification and the plan is
based on what the State found. He added that there are legitimate state interests as to what
can be restricted for development, and you cannot further restrict if there are no resources to
protect.
Mr. Cota said this is the information the DRB asked for. Mr. Behr said he felt the presentation
answered his questions.
Mr. Kochman said it is true that a mere statement in a comprehensive plan that is aspirational
has no binding affect unless it is incorporated into the LDRs. PUD rules are part of the LDRs and
they say a proposed plan must be consistent with the goals and objectives of the
Comprehensive Plan. The Comprehensive Plan says the land shown on Map 7 is off limits for
development. It is an unequivocal statement. Mr. Kochman did not feel the Supreme Court
argument was relevant. Mr. Kochman added that if Map #7 is a mistake, that would have force
for him. He asked in what way is the Map #7 a mistake.
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Mr. O’Leary said Map 7 was created from the 2014 Open Space Report. The map contains a
reference that it is for “reference use only.” The map came from BioFinder and the Agency of
Natural Resources (ANR) website. It says the map should only be used to get a general idea of
where things are. Mr. O’Leary noted that the only wetland shown on Map #7 is a tiny piece in
one corner of the property. There are actually extensive wetlands which they hired people to
go out and map. If they relied on Map 7, they’d be developing in the wetlands. The same is
true for riparian connectivity. The map was done at the State level, not for the City. ANR thinks
of riparian areas in terms of river corridors, which provides for meandering floodplains and
riparian functions. Rebecca Pfeiffer of the ANR visited the property and said that the wetland
buffer they are providing exceeds the riparian corridor. She said that if they get a wetland
permit, they will be in compliance with the riparian area regulations.
Mr. Buscher said the Arrowwood study uses the 50‐foot from top of bank as riparian corridor.
Mr. Kochman read for the LDRs and asked if this property is identified as a conservation area.
Mr. Rushford said “incorrectly so.” Mr. Kochman said he would like to hear from Mr. Seff on
this issue. Mr. Behr said it is not the DRB’s job to litigate this. It is up to the Board to
determine whether the applicant’s information is adequate.
Mr. O’Leary then referred to Map #8 and indicated the habitat blocks. He noted one of those
blocks that sticks out into the development. This map also came from a GIS study done
statewide which identified wooded areas of 20 acres or more. Habitat blocks got a ranking
based on specific data. This block got a rating of 3 out of 10 (10 being the highest). Mr. O’Leary
noted other developments built on habitat blocks. He added that even with the old map, they
would still be impacting only about 2.2% of the habitat block. With current mapping, they
would probably impact none of that block.
Staff comments were then addressed as follows:
1. This has been done.
2. Regarding lot coverages, Mr. Currier said they will provide maximum values.
3. Regarding natural resource committee comments, Mr. O’Leary said they believe the
maps to be guidance documents. They will be bound by what they have delineated in
the field. He indicated on the maps the wetlands, river corridor and its buffer and said
the only thing they impact is the with the road crossing. The applicant was asked to
address comments from the Natural Resources Committee (NRC), one of which
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concerned allowing for animal crossing at the wetland crossing. Mr. Murdoch of the
NRC expressed concern with adequate width for deer crossing. Ms. O’Leary said 6 feet
is what the Army Corps approves for aquatic and small animal passage. He noted that
deer have to up on the road, which they do now. The NRC also asked for a “conservation
easement” because it insures permanent conservation. Regarding tree preservation,
Mr. Currier said they have submitted those plans. Mr. Currier also said they are OK with
planting whips in the wetland areas. The NRC also wanted more than 50 feet for the
setback because “more is better.” Mr. Currier said they will have a resource
management plan. They will also provide a dog park or contribute to it as part of the
recreation impact fee. Members were OK with that. Regarding the NRC’s request for
management of non‐native invasive species, Mr. Buscher said that is usually done by
pesticides which they don’t want to use. He added their planting plan is the best way to
fight invasive species. Ms. Smith felt that was an issue for the Homeowners’
Association. Members agreed.
4. Regarding the phasing plan, Mr. O’Leary said Phase 1 would include the trail connection
and various paths. Phase 2 would include the 10‐foot wide path to Dorset Street. Staff
suggested the playground be part of Phase 4 and the applicant agreed to do that.
5. The applicant will provide fencing between the units directly abutting the NRP and the
NRP. They will try to orient the homes so they’re not directly stepping off into the NRP.
6. Regarding potential encroachment of units 82‐87 into the NRP. Mr. Currier showed the
duplexes involved. They are OK with fencing to prevent “creeping” into the NRP. Mr.
Kochman suggested a gap to allow access to the NRP. Mr. Kahn said the intent is that
mowing not occur in the NRP.
The Board then entered discussion of the Staff comments associated with #SD‐18‐29
Preliminary Plat Application for 1505 Dorset Street.
1. Regarding home types, Mr. Currier said they will address design criteria at final plat.
Members were OK with that.
2. Regarding the multi‐family homes, elevations were provided and members were OK
with what they saw.
3. Members agreed to address remaining stormwater issues at final plat.
4. Members were OK with indicating the pedestrian easement on the plan at final plat.
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5. Regarding tree preservation, Mr. Currier said they will try to preserve some more
mature trees. The ones indicated are in the open space area. Mr. Kochman felt that
should be left to the homeowners and is not the DRB’s business. Members felt the
applicant should retain the trees but not pass the requirement on to the homeowner.
6. Regarding landscape credit for trees to be retained, using them as credit towards
landscape budget would require ongoing preservation, so the Board doesn't want to do this.
7. Regarding glazing, Mr. Currier said they’re requesting 35% apply only to the fronts and
backs of units. They are asking for 20% south facing glazing for buildings whose south
faces are a side which faces other buildings walls. Members were OK with this.
Public comment was then considered as follows (Mr. Miller noted the false appearance that the
neighbors’ concerns were based on a “wealthy people vs. affordable housing.” )
Mr. Seff said he represents 14 clients. He was disappointed that Mr. Rushford’s letter was not
sent to him. He then gave members his written response to Mr. Rushford’s presentation. He
felt Mr. Rushford’s comments are “baseless” and that the letter “misses the point.” He said the
LDRs can incorporate the municipal/city plan, and that is what South Burlington did. He cited
specific areas where this happens and said it was in direct response to the J. A. M. Golf case as
were maps #7 and #8.
Mr. Seff said it is his opinion that this development encroaches on both primary and secondary
conservation areas, and you can only develop in a non‐protected area, even if TDRs are allowed
to be used on a property. Mr. Seff added that riparian areas are primary resources, and the
applicant says they are secondary. He felt that if the applicant disagrees with the map, he
should go to the Planning Commission and ask for it to be changed.
Mr. Kochman rejected the idea that you can’t amend a mistake on a map.
Mr. Seff said maps have the force of law. He didn’t believe the DRB can ignore them. He also
said the applicant bought the land after the maps were developed. He said it wouldn’t matter
even if the riparian area was a secondary area since the regulations said “conservation areas
are to be protected.” Mr. Seff also rejected the idea that to deny the application would be
an impermissible taking. He added that this is about a developer destroying land for
$18,000,000.
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Mr. Chalnick said he is not a professional engineer. He said the Open Space Plan defines
riparian areas. He gave members a handout on surface waters and riparian areas put out by
the State in 2016 and read a statement regarding the value of these areas. He added that
Dorset Meadows is one of the highest priority areas. Mr. Kochman asked about accuracy. Mr.
Chalnick said accuracy doesn’t matter because the City said it wants to protect this area. Mr.
Busher then read the disclaimer from the maps. He felt they meet all the requirements (e.g.,
honoring buffers, etc.).
Mr. Cota apologized to members of the public who did not get a chance to speak and invited
them to submit letters. Mr. Cota then moved to continue MP‐18‐01 and SD‐18‐29 to 5 March
2019. Ms. Smith seconded. Motion passed unanimously.
7. Conditional Use Application #CU18‐12 of Paul Washburn to amend a previously
approved conditional use permit for constructing of a 14’x17’ detached accessory
structure to be used as a 186 sq. ft. accessory residential unit. The amendment
consists of reducing the rear setback to 5 feet and increasing the height to 15 feet, 30
Myers Court:
Messrs. Wilking and Sullivan rejoined the Board.
Mr. Washburn said he is asking for an adjustment of 12.75 feet to 15 feet, an adjustment of the
grade to bring the building height to 15 feet (about 14 inch adjustment), approval of a 5‐foot
setback instead of 7 feet, and allowing them to dedicate 100 sq. ft. of the garage space to living
space to address the loft space issue.
Mr. Washburn noted the garage foundation is in and is 10 feet from the house. The garage in
19 feet high, higher than the primary structure but is considered part of the primary structure.
Ms. Keene noted the application for the garage was reviewed administratively. Mr. Washburn
said the 100 feet in the garage would be added to the house square footage to allow the
additional living space in the loft. The garage will be attached to the house.
Mr. Sullivan emphasized there is no flexibility for the 15‐foot max height.
Mr. Behr noted that building height is determined by preconstruction grade. Ms. Keene said
one reason to allow the change in the preconstruction grade is technical, in this case a sewer
issue. Mr. Washburn said they would actually have preferred a lower house but because of
positive flow to the sewer, the house has to be higher. Ms. Keene read from the regulations as
to how the Board can grant this. Mr. Miller noted that if the roof were flatter, it would solve
this.
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Ms. Keene said the only other option that doesn’t involve construction is to change the
preconstruction grade. Mr. Washburn said they are asking for an adjustment to allow
measurement from what is there now, not the preconstruction grade. Mr. Sullivan felt the
applicant is asking for more than what is needed for the sewer adjustment. Mr. Wilking noted
the sewer line has to be buried deeply enough to avoid freezing. Mr. Washburn said he would
rather reduce the crawl space than lower the roof.
Mr. Kochman suggested having someone come in and tell the Board technically what
adjustment is needed for sewer. Members supported that. The applicant said he was willing to
do that.
Mr. Messina, representing the abutting neighbors, said his clients didn’t oppose the original
application, but Mr. Washburn didn’t follow that application. He asked that the person doing
the study be impartial because it is their feeling Mr. Washburn wasn’t forthcoming in the first
place. He added that his clients want to maintain the 15 foot height limit.
Mr. Cota then moved to continue CU‐18‐12 to 19 March 2019. Mr. Wilking seconded. Motion
passed unanimously.
8. Minutes of 18 December 2018 and 15 January 2019:
Mr. Cota moved to approve the Minutes of 18 December 2018 and 15 January 2019 as
presented. Mr. Wilking seconded. Motion passed unanimously
12 Other Business:
No other business was presented.
As there was no further business to come before the Board, the meeting was adjourned by
common consent at 10:33 p.m.
These minutes were approved by the Board on ___.
DEVELOPMENT REVIEW BOARD 4 MARCH 2020
The South Burlington Development Review Board held a regular meeting on Wednesday, 4
March 2020, at 7:00 p.m. in the Conference Room, City Hall, 575 Dorset Street.
MEMBERS PRESENT: D. Philibert, Acting Chair; M. Behr (via telephone), J. Langan, E. Portman
ALSO PRESENT: M. Keene, Development Review Planner; D. Marshall, S. McAllister, S. Dopp, C.
Frank, J. Anderson, S. Hochner, O. Hansen, S. Homsted, C. Galipeau, J. Duncan, N. Pion
1. Directions on emergency evacuation procedures from conference room:
Ms. Philibert provided directions on emergency evacuation procedures.
2. Additions, deletions, or changes in order of agenda items:
It was noted that Agenda Item #9 would not be heard at this meeting as there was not a
quorum of members present who could hear the item.
3. Comments and questions from the public not related to the Agenda:
Ms. Dopp asked about a building that appears to be going up on the high end of the Auclair
Farm. She didn’t remember a project regarding that building. Ms. Keene said she would look
into it.
4. Announcements:
No announcements were made.
5. Continued Preliminary and Final Plat Application #SD‐20‐04 of Scott McAllister to
subdivide an existing 1.23 acre parcel developed with a single family home into three
lots of 0.63 acres (Lot #1), 0.28 acres (Lat #2) and 0.28 acres (Lot #3) for the purpose of
constructing a new single family home on each of Lots 2 and 3, 1430 Hinesburg Road:
Mr. Homsted advised that the 2 remaining items have been addressed. They now have a
signed TDR option agreement which will be reviewed by the City Attorney. They have provided
additional information from the Agency of Natural Resources that show very high well yields.
Mr. Homsted said they are fine with the stipulations regarding TDRs.
DEVELOPMENT REVIEW BOARD
4 MARCH 2020
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No issues were raised by the Board of members of the public.
Mr. Behr moved to close SD‐20‐04. Mr. Langan seconded. Motion passed 4‐0.
6. Continued Preliminary and Final Plat Application #SD‐20‐02 of CEA Properties, LLC, to
construct a two‐story office building totaling 7,200 sq. ft. and a one‐story 4,070 sq. ft.
veterinary hospital on an existing 3.1 acre lot currently developed with a 7,200 sq. ft.
office building and 1,000 sq. ft. storage building, 10 Mansfield View Lane:
Mr. Marshall noted that the project had been warned differently than it was currently
proposed. Ms. Keene said it would have to be re‐warned but the Board could review it, and
have a future hearing for public comment.
Mr. Marshall showed an overhead of existing conditions and identified the existing buildings
and parking lots. He noted that in 2007, a 5‐year Master Plan was approved with a similar
layout to this. The veterinary use has chosen not to proceed.
Mr. Marshall said the biggest change in the plan is the introduction of a more formal common
open space area based on Form Based Code standards. He showed the location of this area
and noted that it takes advantage of views of Mount Mansfield and Camel’s Hump.
Staff comments were then addressed as follows:
a. Is the applicant asking for conditional use approval of both buildings? Mr. Marshall
said they are. The conditional use is for the use of a cupola. He showed a building
concept with a cupola and showed a picture of the existing building, also with a
cupola. The conditional use would allow them to add to the building height. Mr.
Behr felt the cupola needs to be bigger. He also asked if they have met with the
neighbors now that they are building 2 stories. Mr. Marshall said they met with Tim
McKenzie. They will ask him to provide a statement to the DRB.
b. Mr. Marshall said they already have their preliminary water and wastewater
allocations. Ms. Keene said the question is whether they have been held for this
long. Mr. Marshall said the will look into that an reallocate if needed.
c. Mr. Marshall said they will agree to the stabilization method.
d. The issue of the access between buildings being for emergency use only: Ms. Keene
said this does not comply with regulations. Mr. Marshall noted that at the time of
the easement, the agreement with Eye Laser was the access be for emergency use.
DEVELOPMENT REVIEW BOARD
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PAGE 3
The concern is with cut‐through traffic. There is an agreement for a traffic signal,
when needed. He suggested this be dealt with when Blackrock comes in for
their second phase as there is also concern with traffic from Blackrock and from
the eastern part of the development. Ms. Philibert read from the staff
recommendation to remove the gates and then re‐apply for them at a later
stage. Ms. Keene said staff’s idea is “let’s see what happens.” Mr. Langan said
he was OK with “kicking the can down the road.” Mr. Behr said this is a classic
example of where connectivity is wanted between properties. Normally, the
Board would say “build to the property line.” Mr. Behr noted that as proposed,
the geometry conforms to the LDRs and that the restriction to emergency
vehicles only is the issue.
e. Mr. Marshall said they would comply with requests of the Fire Department.
f. Mr. Marshall showed where Public Works asked about the rec path alignment. He
noted it is “bent” to preserve existing trees. The Board was ok with the alignment as
proposed.
g. They will comply with comments from the Water Department.
h. They will comply with comments from the Stormwater Department.
i. Regarding offsite improvements re: stormwater: Mr. Marshall showed 2007 plans
and then the current path of stormwater. He clarified no additional improvements
are needed any longer. They will clarify this with the stormwater department.
j. Whether benches can replace trees as part of the landscape requirement: Mr.
Marshall showed the landscape plan including the location of sitting benches and
shading trees. Benches will allow for views of the mountains. Members were OK
with this.
k. They will comply with bicycle parking requirements.
l. They will work with staff regarding addresses.
No other issues were raised by the Board or the public.
Ms. Philibert moved to continue SD‐20‐02 to 21 April. Mr. Behr seconded. Motion passed 4‐0.
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7. Continued Site Plan Application #SP‐19‐39 of R. L. Vallee, Inc., to demolish the existing
structures at 907 Shelburne Road and a portion of an existing service station at 793
Shelburne Road and construct an expanded service station with two additional fueling
positions for a total of ten and an associated 4,265 sq. ft. retail sales and restaurant
building, 793 and 907 Shelburne Road:
Mr. Hochner said he feels they have a good project and that they got good direction at the last
meeting. He hoped they can now get Board support.
Mr. Behr stressed that nothing has been “locked down” yet. Ms. Philibert added that the
Board’s job is to be sure the project is compliant with the regulations.
Staff comments were then addressed as follows:
a. Staff continues to recommend the Board review the application but not close
the hearing until the hearing on the subdivision is closed. The applicant had
no issue with this.
b. The Board determined the addition of a fuel pump to be an expansion of a
nonconformity. The Board was asked to review the application as if there
wasn’t a 5th pump; however, the compliance with several standards would be
different. Staff recommends the Board make its decision based on 5 pumps.
Mr. Anderson said they were hoping not to need a second application. Mr.
Behr said it’s not “just a number.” It involves circulation, lighting, etc. He
didn’t see the 5th pump as viable. He asked if this turns out to be the
majority opinion, whether the applicant will come back with an application
for 4 pumps or is the Board just wasting time reviewing the 5‐pump
application. Mr. Anderson said in their mind, nothing really changes. He
questioned whether the Board wants them to present both a 5 and a 4 pump
application. Mr. Behr said the issue for him is that 5 pumps is a non‐starter,
and why go through the application if this is the case. Mr. Anderson said
they need a “sufficient decision” so they can appeal it. They don’t know how
to get that without a full application. Members agreed to proceed.
c. Staff recommends that the Board find the criteria for parking and internal
circulation not to be met. The applicant requested getting legal review and
the Board supported that.
d. The application should be updated to provide correct dimensions. The
applicant agreed to do this.
DEVELOPMENT REVIEW BOARD
4 MARCH 2020
PAGE 5
e. The applicant’s statement that VTrans approves the project is incorrect. Staff
recommends the Board not allow the evaluation of the proposed driveway
configuration to be influenced by the issuance of an LOI. Mr. Anderson said
the LOI has been issued. If there are changes they would have to get
approval from VTrans. If any changes are made because of issues with the
Water Department, those would also need approval.
f. There is no evaluation of why the applicant believes safety will be improved
enough to allow left turn movements out of the site. There is also no
evaluation of roadway capacity or capacity for left turn lanes. Ms. Keene said
the Board has the authority to ask for a second technical review; however,
the applicant has been unwilling to pay for this. The Board can still request
it. Mr. Anderson said they don’t know how big the check is for this. If a price
can be negotiated, they are OK with it. Ms. Keene suggested the Board
authorize it and see if an agreement can be reached. Members agreed to
authorize a second technical review.
g. Staff requests that the applicant demonstrate how the connection to the
south will work both in terms of topography and in terms of impacts to
functionality of the adjoining site. Ms. Keene showed the grading plan. Mr.
Galipeau said this will be part of a second site plan application for the
project. Members agreed to “let it fall where it will” and not keep the
present application open pending the site plan amendment for the adjacent
property. Mr. Galipeau said it is at their risk.
h. The applicant was OK with offsite mitigation.
i. Ms. Frank said the Bike/Ped Committee was pleased with the design of the
crosswalk. There is a jog that may have to do with an electrical box. Mr.
Galipeau said this is the alignment VTrans approved so the road can be
crossed in one full motion, not having people stop halfway.
j. Regarding the reconfiguration of the building entry to make it more
prominent as it does not meet the criteria: The applicant showed a new
concept with the door in the middle of the street side. The walkway is
shifted to approach the new door location. Mr. Behr suggested an
architectural detail (e.g., awing). Mr. Galipeau said they would have a sign
over the door and lights to illuminate the sign as well as the path. Ms. Keene
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4 MARCH 2020
PAGE 6
noted that only 2 signs per building are allowed. The applicant said they will
work to limit it to 2.
k. Regarding consistency with the Comprehensive Plan: Ms. Keene reminded
the Board that this is a criteria that should guide their decision. Ms. Portman
said the plan will facilitate bike travel to Red Rocks Park. Ms. Portman said it
is more consistent than what is now there.
l. Staff notes that parking can’t be in front of the building except with certain
contingencies. Parking has to be screened, and screening can’t interfere with
sight distances. Mr. Galipeau said that parking screening was proposed. He
showed a landscape plan. They will listen to any comments from the City
Arborist. Mr. Behr questioned whether the “canopy” is a “building” for the
purposes of screening. He asked whether a 4‐pump plan will have a
minimum parking requirement. Ms. Keene said it will not. Mr. Galipeau said
parking is very important to them.
m. There is a question as to whether the 3 front parking spaces in the tank area
are allowed. Mr. Anderson said they feel the 2 spaces where headlights face
Queen City Park are OK. They asked for a waiver for the 3 spaces facing the
apartment building. Mr. Galipeau said they propose to maintain parking to
the north of the building but shift it slightly to the west. They don’t feel
those 3 spaces will change the appearance, and they are valuable. Ms.
Keene noted there are at least 3 parking spaces between Queen City Park
Road and the building. Mr. Galipeau said that parking in front of the building
is allowed with certain criteria, and he felt they meet those criteria. Mr. Behr
said he had no objection if it is screened.
n. Mr. Anderson said they will address the situation on Queen City Park Road.
Mr. Galipeau said the question is whether the portion of the parking area
overlapping the canopy is counted as “aisle” or as “building.” Ms. Keene said
it involves the width of the parking area. If you don’t count under the
canopy, they don’t have enough parking area. She added it is up to the
applicant to find a solution. Mr. Anderson said he didn’t see anything that
says circulation areas can’t be partly under cover. Mr. Behr said the issue is
whether that meets the intent of the standard. It’s like looking for a
loophole to get around the LDRs.
o. The applicant indicated they would provide a rendering of the wall. Mr.
Galipeau said they will provide new renderings for the Board to review.
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4 MARCH 2020
PAGE 7
p. Regarding the requirement for 10% interior landscaping and indicating this
criterion is met. Mr. Anderson said that if there are 28 contiguous spaces,
they have to meet that requirement. They don’t have the 28 contiguous
spaces. Members agreed. Mr. Langan said the applicant memo said they
would have planters and that would be nice.
q. The applicant said they will provide 2‐1/2 inch caliper trees.
r. Mr. Galipeau said they have added curbs around all plantings.
s. Staff feels landscaping is deficient because it is coincident with the location
of snow storage and because the applicant hasn’t demonstrated that runoff
to the adjacent property will be appropriately treated. Mr. Galipeau said
there will be an understanding that if there is a significant snow event, snow
will be hauled away. There is now no stormwater treatment. The project
will collect and treat all stormwater. They will indicate where snow will be
placed on site. Ms. Keene asked that a note be added to the plan that
“additional snow will be trucked off.”
t. A printed rendering of the view from the attached residential property was
provided. Mr. Hochner said this will be an improvement over what is there
now.
u. Mr. Anderson said they feel they can address the remaining comments of the
Stormwater Department.
v. Staff asked the applicant to demonstrate that there is adequate circulation
for all vehicles including delivery and fire trucks. Mr. Galipeau said the
delivery trucks will be smaller. They are still trying to meet with the Fire
Chief who wants to see the plans so he can measure with their templates.
w. Staff requests that the south driveway be narrowed to a right turn in and out
to support reduced pedestrian crossing width and to limit vehicle
movements opposing the flow of traffic. Mr. Galipeau said they need the
width and that it is important to maintain access at the south curb cut. Mr.
Hochner said 95% of exiting traffic goes south. Mr. Galipeau said they want
to maintain both ways. He said it would be OK at night to turn left. He felt
the width was necessary because of the potential for a pickup truck with a
trailer, etc. Mr. Hochner said those vehicles now have to back out. This is
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4 MARCH 2020
PAGE 8
better. Mr. Behr agreed that left turns would be rare. He did wonder about
the width and noted that the width of the access to Hannaford is narrower.
Mr. Galipeau said they don’t anticipate delivery vehicles going that way. Ms.
Keene read from the Public Works comments that left turn movements
should not be allowed as they are unsafe. Mr. Galipeau said it is a state road
and the state should determine this.
x. The applicant said they will address the remaining comments of the Fire
Chief.
y. Regarding the possible elimination of housing units, Mr. Anderson suggested
this be discussed at a future time. He said they are not proposing to
eliminate any housing use. The building being demolished was permitted as
a hotel use, and that was never changed. Ms. Portman agreed. Ms. Philibert
noted they had also paid rooms and meals tax on that building.
z. Possible technical review of proposed lighting plan: Mr. Anderson suggested
a 2‐step process as there are “mixed signals” regarding more/less spill
lighting. They will meet with staff to “negotiate an amount for the review.”
Mr. Behr moved to invoke technical review of the lighting plan. Ms. Philibert seconded.
Motion passed 4‐0.
aa. Regarding meeting of noise performance standards: Mr. Anderson said they
have now provided a noise study. It indicates that any delivery noise is de‐
minimus to Route 7. Mr. Hochner said they have never had a noise
complaint. Mr. Hanson said they get deliveries at various times of day.
bb. The applicant will remove signage from the plan as the Board cannot approve
signage.
cc. The comments from CWD are substantial, and there can be no approval until
all of those issues are satisfied. If they are not, Standard #14.07B would not
be met. Mr. Galipeau said they have met with CWD several times. There is
no project without their blessing as they can’t get a water permit without
them. The goal is to get through the “deal breakers,” then work on the civil
components. There is a question of the cost of a new line around the
building and more. Mr. Pion and Mr. Duncan of CWD indicated they have
met with the applicants. The biggest concern is the thrust block under
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4 MARCH 2020
PAGE 9
Shelburne Road. The main through the property is one of CWD’s main water
mains as more than 4.5 million gallons goes through there each day to
numerous transmission systems. The sleeve protects the water line. Where
the connection is shown is close to the sleeve and needs a very substantial
thrust block. CWD also wants further analysis of thrust restraints. They feel
the line under Shelburne Rd. will have to be replaced. Mr. Duncan added
that they normally don’t do anything like this. If there are issues, they don’t
want to compromise the system. He noted that some things in the LDRs are
counter to what CWD wants (e.g., placing landscaping over CWD
installations). He stressed they need to protect the final product that goes
in. Mr. Galipeau noted the cost involved and said they are looking at options.
They will work with CWD.
Ms. Philibert then moved to continue SP‐19‐39 of R. L. Vallee until 21 April. Mr. Behr seconded.
Motion passed 4‐0.
8. Sketch Plan Application #SD‐20‐07 of R. L. Vallee, Inc., to consolidate two lots of 0.36
acres and 0.59 acres into one lot for the purpose of constructing an expanded service
station and retail sales and restaurant building, 793 and 907 Shelburne Road:
Mr. Galipeau said the purpose is to dissolve the property line between 793 and 907.
Staff comments were addressed as follows:
a. Preliminary water and wastewater approval has not been obtained. Mr.
Galipeau felt this is a site plan issue. He noted that there will actually be a
reduction in water and wastewater. Mr. Duncan noted that CWD is South
Burlington’s water agent. They assume the site plan has both wholesale and
retail water use. Ms. Keene noted these are both site plan and subdivision
criteria and need to be submitted.
b. Regarding compliance with Fire Chief’s needs: Mr. Galipeau said this is a site
plan condition.
c. Mr. Anderson said there will be a formal hearing on the site plan. He
suggested they back with a subdivision plan on 21 April as well, instead of on
March 17th as now scheduled. Ms. Keene said this will have to be voted on at
the 17 March meeting as it has already been warned, but the Board was
generally OK with the request.
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4 MARCH 2020
PAGE 10
9. Sketch plan application #SD‐20‐08 of O’Brien Farm Road, LLC, to subdivide five existing
lots totaling 85.44 acres, one of which is developed with an existing barn, into seven
lots ranging from 0.51 acres (Lot 18) to 37.3 acres (lot 5) for the purpose of
transferring ownership and better aligning parcel boundaries with zoning districts, 500
Old Farm Road:
This item was postponed to March 17 as there was not a quorum of members who could take
action.
10. Minutes of 19 February 2020:
Mr. Langan moved to approve the Minutes of 19 February 2020 as written. Ms. Portman
seconded. Motion passed 4‐0.
12 Other Business:
As there was no further business to come before the Board, the meeting was adjourned by
common consent at 10:40 p.m.
These minutes were approved by the Board on ___.