04-21-16 Regular Meeting of the Planning and Zoning Commission

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Planning and Zoning Commission Minutes of April 21,2016 Page 2 of 6 history, their operations in the plant and what they have done for their neighbors and the community. Commissioner Barrera asked whether or not Sulzer had purchased the property to be rezoned after the creation of the large lot district and they had been aware. Commissioner Smith asked if the building would be used for only storage and the applicant confirmed that it would be. Sulzer's legal counsel made a statement where he reiterated that the plot of land is locked in and that the comprehensive plan should not be the end all. c. Public Comments(for,against,or questions) Sulzer representatives asked who in the audience was in favor of the rezone and people rose their hands. The Commission then asked who with their hands raised were residents of La Porte. No official count was taken. Julia and Darrell Hutchins(11311 N. P Street),a Lomax resident,argued that large lot should be left as large lot and brought pictures from a neighbor's backyard to show the factory at night.Mrs.Hutchins also brought in a letter from a neighbor that could not make the meeting to voice objection. Mrs. Hutchins asked for those against the request to raise their hand and people rose their hands. No official count was taken. Mr. Hutchins identified other locations where Sulzer might expand their facility, but Sulzer representatives explained why those locations were not feasible. Chris Murdock, another Lomax resident,talked about how he could hear the Sulzer factory on his 4 AM runs and spoke against the request. Mark Pool(1401 Lemon Lane)stated that he would be the most impacted by either scenario proposed. He indicated that he was neither in favor or opposed to the zone change request. d. Question and Answer There were questions asked and answered about Sulzer and the general trend of light industrial uses encroaching on the Large Lot District. 4. Close public hearing. Chairman Lawler closed the public hearing at 7:02 PM. 5. Consider a recommendation to the La Porte City Council on Zone Change Request#16-92000001. Motion by Commissioner Warren to recommend to City Council, denial of Zone Change Request#16-92000001. Second by Commissioner Barrera. Motion carried.