10-13-2022 Planning Commission Minutes

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MINUTES PLANNING COMMISSION OCTOBER 13, 2022 5 The Community Development Director replied that there would be signage and both the City and Lennar would monitor that situation. She stated that jersey barriers would not be used as they would want access for emergency vehicles. She noted that once the roads are open, general traffic would be allowed to use the roads. Jackie Durant, 3043 Edgerton Street, commented that Little Canada is only three-square miles and asked how dense the community is expected to be. She asked if there are any stipulations that could prevent an apartment building from coming forward in future phases. The Community Development Director replied that an apartment building would not be allowed in R-2. Ms. Durant commented that when the residents in this area built their homes, they had to abide to the ordinances such as setbacks. She hoped that there had not been any backdoor deals or meetings on this proposal. She asked if children would play in these reduced yards or whether they will wander onto adjacent properties which could become a liability issue. She believed that developments should adhere to the City ordinances. She asked if she would be allowed a variance to place a fence along her property line to keep children off her property. She referenced trees which are planted on her property, three or four feet from her property line and expressed concern that those could become damaged during construction. The Community Development Director explained that the reduced setback does not apply to all areas of the property. She stated that she can follow up with the resident to determine the actual setback near her property. Ms. Durant commented that she would like assurance that an apartment building would not be proposed on this property in future phases. The Community Development Director commented that an apartment building would not be allowed under R-2. She stated that the City operates under transparency and does not conduct any backdoor meetings, everything is transparent and open to the public. Acting Chair Johnson provided additional details on open meeting laws which prevent that type of scenario. She stated that the property adjacent to Ms. Durant’s property will be in a future phase. Mr. Tabone stated that it is the guidance of the Comprehensive Plan that guided the density of this parcel. He explained that the reduced setbacks assist the parcel in achieving the desired density. He noted that townhomes provide a necessary housing product in the market. He noted that not all homes will have setbacks reduced to the allowed minimum. He provided details on the required building codes and materials for townhomes to address concerns related to fire safety. He stated that while they looked at the option for a berm, that would impact their stormwater modeling and therefore could not be incorporated. He stated that he would instead