01/08/2003 P&Z Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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Planning & Zoning Board January 8, 2003 Page 7 APPROVED MINUTES a proposed rezoning is problematic in that it abuts an established residential zone, and may likely present a conflict of use. Lastly, the applicant’s proposed use, together with a need for outdoor storage, is at odds with what is likely to be suitable zoning for the site. Staff explained that while this application represents one prospective landowner’s desire to use the site in a particular way, such a proposed use is in conflict with the City’s stated goals for its future. Further, there is nothing in the application that would indicate that such a proposed enlargement of a commercial or industrial area would be advantageous for the community in the long term, and thus worth negating the City’s approved Comprehensive Plan. Staff noted the available options and recommended denial of the proposed Comprehensive Plan Amendment and Rezoning. Chair Schaps asked if the Comprehensive Plan identifies commercial on both sides of the street. Ms. Gretz presented a map, identified the commercial area, and advised that the surrounding property and up to Columbus Township is Low Density, Sewered Residential. Mr. Lyden stated the Comprehensive Plan indicates this should be Low Density Residential homes, but the reality is that there is a parking lot and building already there. He asked if the City expects someone to buy this property, tear down the pole building and parking lot, and build a house. Ms. Gretz stated she can only speak to what the Comprehensive Plan is guided for. Mr. Lyden stated in that case the City better get ready to buy the property, remove the building and parking lot, and get the property ready for a house. Chair Schaps invited the applicant to make comment. Charles Pfingsten II, President of Charlie’s Tree Service and applicant, pointed out that when he received the agenda information, he discovered that the chart on Page 3 indicates the guided land use for the east side of the site is Low Density, Sewered Residential but the existing zoning is Rural. He stated this used to be a tire and battery shop from Orange to Maple. He asked how that could be zoned Rural since it has an existing business and suggested that may be an oversight. Chair Schaps asked what is across from the subject site, across from County Road 23. Mr. Pfingsten stated across County Road 23 is a remote control car sales and service business. Mr. Pfingsten stated he believes the map was taken from what is on file with the City but it seems odd that it is zoned Rural and businesses exist. He reviewed the map identified as Exhibit #3 and advised that the General Business area only covers a portion of the end of the block. He reviewed Exhibit #5 and noted it shows General Business across the entire block, which he believes to be the most accurate map included in the exhibits.