04-19-2001 Regular Meeting and Public Hearing of the La Porte Planning and Zoning Commission

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Staff Report Fairmont Park Baptist Church July 19, 2001 Special Conditional Use Permit #SCU 01-003 Request: Consideration of a Special Conditional Use Permit #SCU 01-003 Requested By. Fairmont Park Baptist Church Requested For: Approximately 6.5 acres of land situated in the W. J. Payne Subdivision, La Porte, Harris County, Texas. This property is located at 10401 Belfast Drive at the comer of Farrington Boulevard. The church is seeking approval to expand their current activities to include outdoor recreation in the form of skateboard ramps and a bicycle race area. Present Zoning: Low -Density Residential (R-1) Background.• The tract in question is located at the northeast corner of Farrington Boulevard and Belfast Drive. It is bounded on the west, east and south by single-family residential development. It is bounded on the north by Rizutto elementary school. Existing development on the 6.5-acre subject tract includes several buildings, vehicle access, parking, and sidewalks that are situated on the southern portion of the tract. The buildings are identified as Worship Center, Chapel, Education, and Office. Fairmont Park Baptist Church is requesting consideration for outdoor recreational activities within the existing 6.5-acre church property. These recreational activities include a bicycle park, and skateboard ramps. The development or expansion of religious institutions within an R-1 zoning district requires. a Special Conditional Use Permit per City's Code of Ordinances. The church applied for and was issued a Special Conditional Use Permit (SCUP) in 1987. This permit and accompanying site plan demonstrated only the construction of additional church buildings and related parking facilities. The permit did not indicate approval for outdoor recreational activities. Analysis: Using the City's adopted Comprehensive Plan as a guide, this 6.5-acre tract appears to be suitable for development of religious facilities. In the vicinity is a mix of single-family residential, recreation, religious and educational facilities normally required providing the elements of a balanced, orderly, convenient and attractive residential area. However, the subject tract is surrounded by single-family dwellings on three sides. Chapter 9 of the Comprehensive Plan states, "Neighborhoods are one of La Porte's greatest assets as they form a foundation for a sound quality of life." In addition the `Plan states, "The attractive appearance and environmental quality of existing residential neighborhoods should be protected to maintain the value of properties and enhance the quality of life."