03-15-2001 Regular Meeting and Public Hearing of the La Porte Planning and Zoning Commission

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Zone Change Request #R 01-002 P & Z (4/19/01) Page 2 of 3 Parks and Recreation - The tract in question is not in proximity to any community or neighborhood parks. The nearest facility is the City's Fairmont Park which would ' require travel on Spencer Highway. The applicant has indicated this area may be annexed into the Fairmont Park East Homeowner Association and be able to utilize that park facility along Driftwood. Again, access to that park would require travel along Spencer Highway. Utilities — There is sufficient water and sewer facilities in the vicinity to provide service to this proposed development. As far as public infrastructure issues are concerned, it will be developer's responsibility to provide any structures or improvements necessary to accommodate water and sanitary sewer. Storm water drainage and detention is also an issue that will be carefully reviewed with the project development: On -site detention may be required. Residential Development — It is a goal of the Comprehensive Plan to provide for attractive low -density residential neighborhoods. This could be achieved by applying neighborhood protection standards and making considerable improvements to these new neighborhoods. The neighborhood protection standards applicable to, this project may include physical screening, increased setbacks,- and use of open space buffers. Increasing residential lot sizes, building and parking lot setbacks of adjacent nonresidential land uses along Spencer Highway could provide attractive appearance and help to minimize any adverse impact on the value and enjoyment of the residential property. Landscaping and fencing could be used as a useful. tool to provide buffering for nonresidential development when adjacent to residential development. This request retains a small portion of the overall tract (approx. 1.5 ac.) for General Commercial along Spencer Highway. It is staff opinion that a sufficient amount of commercial .zoning already exists in the area along Spencer Highway. This proposed scenario needs to be evaluated in conjunction with the residential development strategies recommended by the Comprehensive Plan. Staff and the Commission should look for the best use to ensure the highest quality living environment in the area. Conclusion: A comprehensive look at existing and future conditions in the area should be strongly considered. Staff recommends that the. Planning and, Zoning Commission consider favorable action with this zone change request. The requested zoning would represent the highest and best use of the property,