01-17-2002 Regular Meeting and Public Hearing of the La Porte Planning and Zoning Commission

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Zone Change Request #R 02-001 P & Z Feb 21, 2002 Page 2 of 2 Transportation — The tract in question has approximately 600 feet of frontage along Driftwood Drive, a main access to the Fairmont Park East Fairmont Parkway, a semi -controlled access highway should accommodate the traffic generated by this development. Previously, the Commission expressed interest in an internal access system for the General Commercial area adjacent to Fairmont Parkway. This would limit and reduce the number of future driveways directly connected to Fairmont Parkway. However, the Commission can address this issue during review and approval. of the amended General Plan. (Staff is currently reviewing the plan.) Parks and Recreation — The nearest park facility is the Fairmont Park East Homeowners Association Pack at the corner of Mesquite and Driftwood Drive. The HOA Board previously contacted the City regarding parkland issues. The association is willing to discuss development of the detention basin into usable parkland/open space. 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 concemed, 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 to the north of the property. Residential Development — The intent of the Comprehensive Plan is to provide for attractive low -density residential neighborhoods. The neighborhood protection standards applicable to this project may include physical screening, increased setbacks, and use of open space buffers. Currently, the zoning ordinance allows building setbacks of 20-20-10 as a buffer between residential and non-residential uses.'The Commission may want to consider additional buffering between uses during review of the General Plan. Conclusion: Staff suggests that during review of the General Plan, items such as increased setbacks and deeper lots be considered to make R-1 more compatible with GC. At this time, staff recommends that the Planning and Zoning Commission approve this zone change request with the modification that Reserve A for GC (0.40 ac.) is also rezoned to R-1. The change would represent the highest and best use of the property. Furthermore, the change is not contrary to the goals and objectives of the Comprehensive Plan. Actions available to the Commission are • Recommend approval of the zone change as requested • Recommend denial of the zone change as requested • Recommend approval of a modified version of the zone change