11-20-2002 Regular Meeting and Public Hearing

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ZONING BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT MINUTES OF NOVEMBER 20, 2002 Members Present: Chairperson Sidney Grant, Ruben Salinas, Rod Rothermel, Bob Capen, Willie Walker, Alternate No. 1 Charles Schoppe, Alternate No. 2 George Maltsberger Members Absent: City Staff Present: Director of Planning Doug Kneupper, City Planner Gwen Goodwin, Assistant City Attorney John Armstrong, Inspection Services Coordinator Sherry Jennings I. CALL TO ORDER Meeting called to order by Chairperson Grant at 6:00 PM. II. APPROVE MINUTES OF THE OCTOBER 24, 2002, MEETING. Minutes approved as presented. III. CONSIDER VARIANCE #V02-002 TO ALLOW THE CONSTRUCTION OF 200 MULTI -FAMILY UNITS INSTEAD OF THE 180-UNIT MAXIMUM. THIS VARIANCE IS BEING REQUESTED PER SECTION 106-192(B) OF THE CODE OF ORDINANCES OF THE CITY OF LA PORTE. City Planner, Gwen Goodwin, presented staffs report. Bill Helm, representing First National Bank of Bellaire, has requested a Variance to construct a 200-unit multi -family complex on approximately 20 acres along Luella at Fairmont Parkway. This exceeds the City's 180-unit maximum allowed for such developments. Staff recommended the Board deny the Variance because Mr. Helm has not demonstrated there are circumstances unique to his property that would warrant granting a variance. Public notification was sent to 30 property owners. The City received three responses opposing the Variance and one response in favor. A. PROPONENTS Chairperson Grant swore in the applicant, Bill Helm. Mr. Helm pointed out that the additional units he is requesting is .actually less than 10 units per acre. He stated that the additional units would ensure a better unit mix by providing more three - bedroom units, which are in demand in this area. He intends to make use of excess unusable land for a detention pond and amenities. He asked the Board to consider his request.