Members of the Planning Commission were enthusiastic about a joint workshop with city council to discuss residential parking issues. At the commission meeting last week, Chair Ann Tandy-Sallee described “an extremely productive workshop” held May 3. “We agreed to go street-by-street,” she said, noting that each problem area may require a different approach.
The first focus will be on upper Spring St. Letters will be sent to residents and operators of bed & breakfast establishments. Many questions remain unanswered, including whether an ordinance would be needed to designate the area for 24-hour residential parking. No decision has been made on the number or location of signs, or how quickly the designation could take effect. All agreed that they look forward to working with council on more issues in the future.
Commissioners have discussed how building codes apply to tourist lodging. They asked if a house converted to tourist lodging would then have to meet commercial codes. Commissioners also speculated on whether different codes would apply during a major remodel.
Tandy-Sallee said she will check with the state Fire Marshal. Commissioner Meghan Morris operates a bed & breakfast, and said she has an annual checklist of requirements. The question could have serious implications, especially for sprinkler systems or stricter electrical standards.
“There shouldn’t be a historical exemption on safety,” commissioner Fergie Stewart said.
Commissioners also continued a discussion on minimum maintenance issues. Joe Hill has researched other communities and noted a pattern of vague language. Tandy-Sallee suggested a workshop before the June 14 meeting, and commissioners will have guidelines from the Arkansas Municipal League and the City of Bentonville as a starting place.
Other business:
- Kent Krug had received approval to build four cabins at 157 W. Van Buren. He brought back a revised plan which increased the distance between two of the cabins, and the new plan was approved without objection. In response to a question, contractor Cory Walker said a minimal amount of construction material will be kept at the parking area. Most material will be stored further back on the lot, to improve appearances and reduce the risk of theft.
- Sparky’s Roadhouse Cafe received approval to add a seating area 28 by 14 feet. The change will eliminate two parking spots, but the business has abundant parking. In her assessment of the application, City Historic Preservation Officer Kylee Hevrdejs noted that the changes would have no major impact on the property and would be reversible.
- Stewart has taken the lead on broadband issues. He said the state will release a survey on underserved areas in July.
- Only a bare quorum of commissioners attended the meeting, and a new commissioner will attend the June 14 meeting. The commission still has a vacancy.