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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMINUTES Planning Commission 1990-02-20BRADFORD PUBLISHING CO.RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS Planning Commission February 20, 1990 Commission: Attending: Also Attending: Absent: Chairman A1 Sager, Commissioners David Barker, Mark Brown, Harriet Burgess, Polly Garrett, George Hix, Richard Wood All Community Development Director Stamey, Town Administrator Klaphake, Public Works Director Widmer, Town Attorney White, Secretary Jones None Chairman Sager called the meeting to order at 1:30 p.m. 1. APPROVAL OF MINUTES The minutes of the Planning Commission meeting held January 16, 1990 were submitted and approved. 2. SPECIAL REVIEWS •a•-----Special Review 89-7, Estes Park Conference Center. A Por•—of Lot 41, Little Prospect Mountain Addition. Hwv 7 & First Avenue, Applicant: Town of Estes Park ------- Chairman Sager opened the public hearing to consider the above special review request. The town is proposing to develop a 21,200 sq.ft, conference center south of and adjacent to the Holiday Inn. Works Director Widmer, who is project manager for the conference center development, presented an overview of the project and advised that the design team is composed of Roger Thorp, Thorp Associates, as lead architect, and C. W. & Associates of Denver as associate architects. Mr. Widmer reviewed the development plan noting that the the proposal is a public/private partnership with the 2.8 acre site being leased from the Holiday Inn by the Town of Estes P3.rk, with the Town constructing the conference center. The proposed structure will be attached to the south wall of the Holiday Inn to utilize the existing kitchen facilities and related services. He advised that the conference center consist of a ballroom capable of handling approximately 800 people, with subsidiary meeting rooms, lobby and registration area. The main entrance is proposed to face Highway 7 where pick-up and drop-off, as well as access to public transportation will be accommodated, with additional access to the center from Stanley Avenue. A height variance to allow^a portion of the entry structure to exceed the 30' code limitation will be required. Construction is anticipated to start in the summer of 1990 with completion being in the spring of 1991. Mr. Widmer further advised that the Town has executed a service agreement with the Holiday Inn (Forever Living Products) to provide food & beverage service and house cleaning facilities to the conference center. BRADFORD PUBLISHING CO.RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS Planning Commission - February 20, 1990 - Page 2 Mr. Roger Thorp discussed the schematic layout of the center and Mr. Mark Wagner, project architect with C. W. Fentress, presented a rendering of the proposed conference center and showed samples of various materials and colors to be used in the construction. Mr. Thorp addressed the height of the building and stated that in order to give proper emphasis to the facility and break up the mass of the building, the peak of the hipped roof at the entry will approach 52' and the columns will be 38'. The design is also to make the conference center identifiable and separate from the Holiday Inn. Mr. Tom Pickering, Marketing Director for the Town, described_the interior of the conference center and the interworkings of the ballroom and related areas, pointing out the flexibility and functions of the areas. He stated there will be a large entertaining area for receptions and exhibits. Director Stamey discussed proposed parking and site layout, advising that the development will include construction of a new parking lot to the south & west of the conference center 120 parking spaces, and also noted that shared parking ^ith the Holiday Inn will be utilized. Additionally, the Bureau of Reclamation has been contacted and has stated they a Special Use Permit that will allow the power plant parking lot to be used for overflow parking (70 spaces). Director Stamey has received the Special Use Permit, which will be executed by the Town Board of Trustees. Sidewalks will be provided across the Highway 36/Highway 7 islands to link the Bureau parking area with the conference center and a shuttle service will be provided in the future. Director Stamey advised that with the proposed construction of the new parking lot, the shared parking, and the surplus spaces at the Holiday Inn, the minimum parking requirement will be met. The overflow parking at the Bureau lot provides surplus parking. He further stated that staff has worked with the Highway Department in designing the entrance points to the center. The conference center is within the Urban Renewal District and correspondence was noted from Art Anderson, Executive Director of URA, advising that the development is in accordance with the Downtown Redevelopment Program's purposes as amended on September 26, 1989. Additional correspondence was acknowledged from various reviewing agencies. The Volunteer Fire Department requested the southern access to the center be designated as a "Fire Lane" and marked with "No Parking Anytime" signs. The Sanitation District commented on the status of the sewer line, noting that some improvements will be necessary. no comments from the audience either in favor of or in opposition to this special review request. Chairman Sager declared the public hearing closed. further discussion. Member Garrett moved to favorably recommend the height increase (without flags) for the portion of the entry structure that exceeds the 30' height limitation, citing that the design gives a major focal point for the conference center, it does not interfere with the privacy or views of adjacent properties, and the design is consistent with the overall Urban Renewal plan. Member Brown seconded the motion and the vote was unanimous. BRADFORD PUBLISHING CO.RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS Planning Conimission - February 20, 1990 - Page 3 Member Garrett also moved to favorably recommend this proposal to the Town Board based on positive findings of suitability of location, land use, adequacy of roads, water, sewage and drainage facilities serving the location, the environmental characteristics of the site, the fact that it does not have any detrimental effect to the social, economic, or community needs which are served by the proposal, and is consistent with the Comprehensive Plan and Urban Renewal Plan. Member Barker seconded the motion and the vote was unanimous. 2.b. Special Review 89-6, Hy-Land's Tours Ltd. Applicant: Pat Hyland Chairman Sager opened the public hearing to consider Special Review 89-6. Mr. Pat Hyland presented his request for operating carriage rides for special occasions such as weddings, anniversaries, birthday parties, honeymoons, etc., on designated routes throughout Estes Park on a year-round basis. High traffic areas and times will be avoided. The carriage will be approximately 10’ in length, 6' in width, pulled by a single horse, and equipped with a waste catching device. Mr. Hyland stated that prior to each event, he will contact the Police Department to discuss the route and work out any problems. Director Stamey advised that the proposal is a commercial amusement permitted by special review. He further advised that Mr. Hyland has agreed to work with the town and Colorado State Patrol should any operational problems develop. Mr. Hyland stated that the Town of Estes Park and the State of Colorado will be added to an insurance policy with limits of $150,000/$400,000. In the event the limits of liability are increased through legislation or judicial action, Mr. Hyland will amend the policies to provide the necessary coverage due to said increase. Mr. Hyland also noted that the special occasion carriage rides will begin at the occasion location and end at a location suitable for loading the horses and carriage. For example, the carriage ride could start at a local church, end at the reception location and spend no more than 15 minutes at each site loading and unloading. Mr. Al Aspinal, President of North End Property Owners and Director of Stanley Heights Property Owner's Association, expressed concern over proposed routing on Devils Gulch Road, Dry Gulch and the Stanley Heights area. He was advised by Mr. Hyland that these routes were no longer being considered. Hearing no further comments from the audience. Chairman Sager declared the public hearing closed. Member Brown moved to favorably recommend approval of Special Review 89-6 to the Town Board subject to a review of the operation by the Planning Commission on or before the November, 1990 meeting, and subject to the Police Department reviewing the route, at their discretion, before each activity. Member Burgess seconded the motion and the vote was unanimous. 2.C. Special Review 90-1, GO-Cart Track, Applicant; Lynn Kinnie. Mr. Bill Van Horn briefed the Commission on applicant's proposal to develop a go-cart track and related services on Lot 5A, Prospect Village Subdivision. A 38 space parking lot is also proposed on Lot 9, north of the site, between Prospect Village Drive and the Big Thompson River. BRADFORD PUBLISHING CO.RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS Planning Commission - February 20, 1990 - Page 4 A colored rendering was submitted showing the proposed track, facilities, landscaping and viewing areas. Mr. Van Horn stated the track would be slightly over 1,000 ft. in length with two overpasses designed so cars can run in either direction. Mr. Van Horn noted that the special review application submitted by applicant requested up to 40 vehicles being used in the operation, starting with 24 vehicles, of which 12 would be operating at one time. The anticipated mode of operation would be to have 12 vehicles running, while 12 are in the process of being loaded. There is also proposed a small enclosed area to be designated as a "kiddie" track, utilizing a different type vehicle. A pedestrian access from the Big Thompson river to the track is also proposed. Mr. Van Horn stated that, assuming noise is not a problem, the hours of operation will not be a problem. He stated that lighting will be shielded and that developers intend to fully landscape the site and will submit a detailed landscape plan. The fence will be a green chain link fence. Mr. Van Horn further stated that it isn't a reasonable expectation that one doesn't hear sound. He stated amusements for children are needed. Director Stamey reviewed the staff report advising that a commercial amusement is permitted through special review, provided the benefits outweigh any adverse effects for the town or vicinity. In the proposed area for the tract, there are commercial amusements on the north side of the river and a residential subdivision. To the south, resort accommodations, residential development and a proposed residential development. To the east, a restaurant exists, and to the west is the Health Club and a proposed motel development. Director Stamey noted that the development of this site will influence the type, quality and character of future development in the Prospect Village, Pine River, and Pedersen subdivisions. He further noted that operational characteristics of a go-cart track might tend to intrude into adjacent properties and, from a noise table submitted by applicant, it was indicated that 300 ft. from the noise source, 58 to 61 decibels might be detectable. He advised that in the C-0 Outlying Commercial district, there is a noise standard provision that "no sound, noise, vibration, odor, or flashing shall be observable without instruments more than 200 ft. from the boundaries of the originating premise." It was noted that the center portion of the proposed track is at an elevation of 7,548 ft., or approximately 8 ft. higher than Prospect Village Drive, which will reduce ground barrier noise abatement. Director Stamey commented that one of the purposes of the C-0 District is to build a clear Estes Park identity along the approaches to the town's center. Consideration should be whether an amusement identity at this proposed location is an appropriate identity. There was discussion regarding proposed structures (ramp & stairway) to be constructed within the 60 ft. right-of-way of the public street, river setback requirements, hours of operation, lighting, landscaping, and proposed chain link fencing. Mr. Van Horn indicated concerns over these issues would be addressed and resolved to the town's satisfaction. He further stated that the proposed development would be an attractive, safe place for children, done in a quality fashion and, in his opinion, consistent with objectives of what is being done in Estes Park. BRADFORD PUBLISHING CO.RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS Planning Commission - February 20, 1990 - Page 5 Mr. Roger Thorp, architect, commented that consideration was given to designing a development that would work well and be an integral part of EPURA's proposed beautification work along the river. Favorable testimony was heard from the following people: Ray Smith (owner of Heidi's), John Ramey (Davis Hill property owner), William Marshall (lives near the Olympus Ride-a-Cart track), Dave Floyd (of Electronic Endeavor), Marilyn Siebenaler (owns a business and home near proposed development), Frank Williams, Joe Sofi, Linda Gordon, Ed O'Dell, and David Habecker. The following individuals spoke in opposition to the development: Tom Watts (Association for Responsible Development), Edith Larson (Davis Hill property owner), Jess Batchelder (Estes Valley Improvement Assoc.), Mary Bauer (251 Mountain View Lane), Ray Kinlock (Slater Towar, Ltd.in Piccadilly Sq.), Ben Lane, (341 Davis Street), Rich Pomponio (owns land west of Health Club), Joseph Blumrich (Davis Hill property owner), Ned Linegar U40 Davis St.), Mike Donahue (Colorado Mountain School), Kay Lane (Davis Hill), and Jean Weaver. Mr. Kinnie addressed the Commission defending his proposal, noting it will provide employment for young people each summer, as well as tax revenue for the town. Director Stamey acknowledged correspondence received from the following individuals in support: Ray Smith, John Ramey, Dick & Marilyn Siebenaler, Diana Bush, Franz Dieter, Diane V. Perry. Correspondence was acknowledged from the following in opposition: James B. Thompson (RMNP), Mary E. Jones, Lorraine Roberts, Edith Larsen, Ralph & Patricia Guild, Mr. & Mrs. Albert Murphey, Villers R. Gerd, Bill & Mary Bauer, Jewel Gaddy, Peter Marsh, Susan & Rod Grant, Ned Linegar, Pauline A. Parish, Diane Lyngholm, Hugh & Betty Speed, Ralph & Patricia Guild, Robert B. Sunderland, Cindy Spaesbury, W. H. Huntington, Dan Smith, Randolph Skire, Joseph F. Blumrich, Christi Larsen, Bernard J. Holien, Howard Schmidt, Barbara & Fred Bertie, Steve Komito, Jess Batchelder (EVIA), Joseph A. Zahn (Home Federal), and Ed and Lisbie Goelz. Hearing no further comments. Chairman Sager declared the public hearing closed. After considerable discussion regarding suitability of proposed development, total number of carts to be operated, aesthetics and noise level. Member Brown suggested it would be beneficial to observe a demonstration of the go-cart and moved to table this request, schedule a demonstration at the proposed site for the next day at 3:00 p.m., and then reconvene the meeting at the municipal building following the demonstration. Member Barker seconded the motion and the vote was as follows: Those voting in favor of tabling this request until observing a demonstration of the go-cart: Barker, Brown, Burgess, Hix, Sager, Wood. Those voting in opposition. Member Garrett. DEVELOPMENT PLANS 3.a. Development Plan 90-1, Estes Park Medical Center. 555 Prospect Avenue. Director Stamey briefed the Commission on the medical center proposal to construct a 5,650 sq.ft, addition to the main hospital building for an emergency room, utility and storage area, admitting and waiting room, and additional staff BRADFORD PUBLISHING CO.RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS Planning Commission - February 20, 1990 - Page 6 space. A covered entrance is also being added to the south side of the addition. Director Stamey advised that applicant has submitted a revised drawing addressing the driveway width, curves of the driveway, parking bay width, and advised applicant would work with the Sanitation District regarding the existing sewer line. Member Hix moved for approval of Development Plan 90-1 with the following conditions: 1. Provide parking bay with overall width of 63'. 2. Reduce width of driveway to 30' (maximum). 3. Driveway entrance be designed with 25' radius. 4. Modify sanitary sewer location as requested by EPSD. Member Garrett seconded the motion and unanimous. the vote was 3.b. Development Plan 90-2, Classy Chassis Car Wash, Applicant: Charles Anderson Mr. Paul Kochevar, representing applicant, advised the proposal is to construct a car wash on the east side of Highway 7, just north of the Mountaineer Restaurant. The proposal includes three self-service bays, a conveyor car wash, and office area. Access will be from Highway 7 at the northern edge of the site, with a right turn decel lane proposed. Director Stamey reviewed the staff report, commenting that the ^ employee parking area should be expanded to seven parking spaces instead of four in order to provide an area for car drying and for cars exiting the three coin operated bays. Director Stamey further commented that the detention pond needs to incorporate release rates for 100 year and 10 year flows with a dual control structure. Also, he noted, the ditch from the northeast corner of the site to Woodstock Drive needs to be protected from erosion (rip-rap or protected seed) and needs to be able to handle the discharge rates. Correspondence was acknowledged from the Light and Power Department requesting a ten foot utility easement along the south property line. The Colorado Division of Highways commented that applicant has applied for an access permit Pr9P°sed accel/decel lane is acceptable to help mitigate right turns onto the property. Mr. Kochevar stated there was room for two cars, plus a drying lane east of the three coin operated bays. He further stated that site grading would allow for expansion of the parking area. further discussion regarding expansion of parking area. Member Wood moved for approval of Development Plan 90- 2 with conditions as follows: 1. A 10' utility easement be provided by separate dedication along the south property line. 2. Detention pond be designed with dual control to handle 100 year and 10 year release rates. The ditch from the northeast corner of the site to Woodstock Drive be protected from erosion and improved (if necessary) to handle the discharge rates. 3. Additional landscaping be provided along the Highway 7 frontage, per landscape standards. Commissioner Brown seconded the motion and the vote was unanimous. BRADFORD PUBLISHING CO.RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS Planning Commission - February 20, 1990 - Page 7 4.AMENDED PLATS 4.a. Amended Plat - Lot 30, Stanley Heights Addition B, Applicant; Robert L. Porter Mr. Bob Porter, applicant and owner of the property, addressed the Commission requesting permission to divide the existing 1.30 acre lot into two equal lots of 0.65 acres each so as to place the two existing dwellings on separate lots. Staff comments indicated that the original zoning of this subdivision required a one acre minimum lot size. Current regulations require 40,000 sq. ft. minimum. The house on proposed Lot 30 B was originally built under the guest house provisions of the zoning ordinance. Mr. Merwyn Joens, Stanley Heights resident who lives at 1041 Otis Lane, spoke in opposition to the proposed lot split and submitted a petition signed by other property owners in the area, all in opposition. Another neighbor, John Roberts, noted that Mr. Porter's house was built as a guest house on his mother's property when guest houses were allowed. He stated the Porter property is the only one in the neighborhood on which a guest house has been built. Director Stamey acknowledged receipt of letters from both Mr. John Roberts and Don & Martha Pauley in opposition to the lot split. Commissioner Garrett, stating the granting of this request exception to the inininuiin lot size reguirements under E-Estate zoning, moved to forward a recommendation to the Town Board that this request be denied. Commissioner Brown seconded the motion and the vote was unanimous. j •b: ■-----fended—Plat - Block 2, West Park Center , Applicant; Town of Estes Park/Leonard C. Molander Director Stamey advised the Commission that the existing lot IS proposed to be divided into two lots, with Lot 1 consisting of 1.538 acres, being donated to the Town by Mr. Molander for open space purposes. The property is located n0rS 1thej;West Park Center area and extends from the south bank of Fall River to the north, and includes the rock cliff face. Director Stamey noted that at the northeast corner of Lot 2, a 24' wide access and utility easement extends west from Block 9. In order to provide for future pedestrian access, this easement should be modified to include the triangular areas between the east lot line and the bridge. Correspondence was acknowledged from Art Anderson, Urban Renewa! Authority, in support of this request, stating that the donation of this property for creation of a river park at the downtown commercial district's west end is a positive step for the community. Co^issioner Hix stated that the granting of the exception will not be materially detrimental to the public welfare or injurious to other property in the neighborhood in which the property is situated, or in conflict with the purposes and objectives of Title 16f and moved for favorable recommendation of this Amended Plat of Block 1, West Park Resubdivision, to the Town Board with the following conditions; BRADFORD PUBLISHING CO.RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS Planning Commission - February 20, 1990 - Page 8 1. That the easement modification noted above be added to include the triangular areas between the east lot line and the bridge. Commissioner Wood seconded the motion and the vote was unanimous. 5.REPORTS Because of the lateness of the hour, Commissioner Brown moved to table discussion on Long Range Planning and the Riverwalk Project to a future date. The vote being unanimous. Chairman Sager adjourned the meeting at 5:24 p.m. with the Commission to be reconvened at 3:00 p.m. Thursday, February 21 to continue review of Special Review 90-1. Cairolyn Jorfes ecretary