09-05-1991 Regular Meeting of La Porte Planning and Zoning Commission

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Page 2 Planning & Zoning Commission Minutes of September 5, 1991 Eliminate uses that utilize outdoor storage and outdoor servIce activities. Preserve and enhance the character of La Porte's Downtown District with an emphasis on promoting an "old town" feeling. Mr. Albrecht recapped the August 8 walking tour of the Main Street area during which the Commission viewed and discussed the primary areas targeted for consideration. Staff discussed the several options for new Main Street zoning lines which had been discussed during the "tour". The option chosen by the Commission (identified as Exhibit D in the agenda packet) involves rezoning Blocks 37; 38; 39; 58; 59; 60; 181; 198 & 199 from "GC" to "NC". A portion of blocks 40; 41; 42; 43; 44; 53; 54; 55; 56; & 57 would be rezoned from "GC" to "R-l". Other Main Street items discussed were the density-intensity, and setback issues. After discussing these issues, the Commission decided that rather than amend the Zoning Ordinance, to leave it as is and to let setback issues be dealt with by the Board of Adjustment. Assistant City Attorney John Armstrong stated that part of the plan is to include a revision to the road map document which is the Comprehensive Plan and to insert language that would direct the Board of Adjustment to take into account the zero setback in the Main Street area only. This can be done within the Comprehensive Plan without changing the Ordinance. Presently the Zoning Ordinance's uses within the zoning classifications excludes antique shops. Verbiage should be inserted into the Ordinance adding antique shops and related uses. Commissioner Edmonds stated that he felt the purpose of the Main Street review was for the Planning & Zoning Commission to change the Ordinance in an effort to meet the needs of the Main Street Association. Mr. Albrecht noted that during review, it was found there already was a tool available to meet the Association's needs. A straw vote was taken. Doug Martin moved to accept staffs recommendation of rezoning Blocks 37; 38; 39; 58; 59; 60; 181; 198; & 199 from "GC" to "NC". A portion of Blocks 40; 41; 42; 43; 44; 53; 54; 55; 56; & 57 would be rezoned from "GC" to "R-l". All members present voted to accept the motion.