The May 13 meeting of the Planning Commission touched upon a wide variety of subjects, including a discussion about allowing an RV park in agricultural zones.
Cassie Dishman, Director of Planning and Community Development, told commissioners that someone had recently inquired about purchasing a couple of parcels in an agricultural zone to install an RV park. Dishman said RVs are currently allowed only in C-2 zones outside the historic district. She further explained that city codes treat RV parks and mobile home parks differently, since one deals with transient population and the other focuses on residents.
Prompted by a suggestion from the audience, commissioners segued into a discussion of making more space available for modular housing, to help make housing more affordable.
Commissioner Susan Harman explained that land zoned agricultural is not typically farmland. When zoning maps were created, that designation was applied to areas not zoned for other uses, and those zones may not have city water and sewer. The lack of sewer service would complicate using these areas for affordable housing, since lots would have to be larger to accommodate septic systems.
The discussion did not arrive at specific actions regarding the agricultural zones, but the commissioners will continue to pursue related questions, including possibly expanding the areas of the city accepting modular housing.
In other business:
- The meeting began with a public hearing concerning the transfer of a Conditional-Use Permit at 4 College St. for one unit of tourist lodging. The transfer for Chris Goodenough was approved without objection.
- Several tree cuts were approved, with commissioner Tom Buford abstaining. At 33 Ridgeway Ave., Lynne Roberts received approval to remove a tree which had already broken and damaged the roof. At 2 Pine Oak St., Jay Stark received approval to remove a tree in the way of new construction. The removal of a hazardous tree was approved at 50 Wall St., for owners Anthony and David Price Riccadona. That tree was too close to the house and had a large cavity. Another removal was approved for removal at 12 Washington St., where a tree growing between two houses was too close to both.
- The commission has been considering setting a schedule for inspections of tourist lodging. Building Official Paul Sutherland had suggested not setting a period for recurring inspections, because his office currently has a full schedule with inspecting businesses, short-term rentals, and motels. The fire marshal regularly conducts similar inspections.
- A discussion on reducing minimum lot sizes continued last week. The minimum side setback in R-1 zones may be reduced from the current 10 feet to eight feet, although some commissioners suggested lowering the side setback to six feet on a small lot, to maximize the space available for home construction.
The commission may also reduce the requirements for off-street parking. Reducing the rear setback was also considered, although there was little support for reducing that 10-foot minimum. Commissioner David Buttecali said that maintaining a rear setback would create an area for a deck or patio. Applicants could still petition for a variance if smaller setbacks are required for specific projects. Dishman will prepare a draft for the next meeting, with a recommendation to city council.
- Dishman said the commission has received answers to questions posed to the Municipal League about Act 313 and Act 314. The latter act will not prohibit the city from annexing property outside the current city limits, but the city will not have the authority to regulate in a one-mile radius prior to annexation.
- The commission approved an application for a metal building 60 x 90 ft. at 96 Ridgeway Ave. The building will combine commercial and residential uses, with living quarters and an event space. Dishman said the exterior materials would ordinarily not be approved, but other metal buildings already exist nearby. “Why would we hold them to a standard that has never been met?” she asked. The proposed building would lie behind a tree line, reducing its visibility. The application was approved, although it will require a variance with public notice. A special meeting was scheduled to consider the variance, to allow completion of the purchase of the property.
- A workshop on fencing will be held at 5 p.m. on June 10, prior to the regular meeting.