04-24-08 Regular Meeting and Public Hearing of the La Porte Zoning Board of Adjustment

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Zoning Board of Adjustment Minutes of April 24, 2008 Page 2 of3 involved with the exterior design standards. He also stated that landscaping, if installed properly, could achieve the same aesthetic result. Mr. Ogden distributed an informational packet, which included photos of numerous buildings he currently owns in La Porte with facades similar to what is being proposed. Chairman Maltsberger swore in Alton Ogden. Mr. Ogden commented that Oakland Land and Development is a major landowner with 16-18 buildings in the La Porte area, paying in excess of $50,000 in taxes to the City. He said that they purchased this piece of land in 1998 and signed a contract to build a building on it. According to Mr. Ogden, Ralph Hampton said the property was grandfathered under the previous requirements. Mr. Ogden said he was told that he could not apply for a variance, but he chose to pursue one anyway. Chairman Maltsberger swore in Jeff Burkhoffer from Natchez, MS. Mr. Burkhoffer spoke about TIRZ and how the new design standards ordinance was contradictory to TIRZ. Chairman Maltsberger swore in Bill Campbell, Action Engineering of Houston. Mr. Campbell spoke about the spirit of TIRZ and how the new ordinance is a contradiction. He suggested a variance compromise by having only the front of the building brick and masonry. He added that the requirements for masonry and glass inhibit development. C. OPPONENTS There was no opposition presented. Chairman Maltsberger swore in Russell Plank, 3900 Woodchase, Houston, TX. Mr. Plank addressed the Commission neither in favor nor opposed to the variance request. Mr. Plank spoke about the Port Crossing development and the effort taken to build a little better product than what was required. It has been his experience with buildings that a larger investment up front will produce increased returns in the future. Motion by Bob Capen to deny Variance #V08-002. Second by Charles Schoppe. The motion carried. Ayes: Nays: Abstain: Pool, Maltsberger, Capen, Schoppe, Rothermel, Montemayer None None Assistant City Attorney, Clark Askins read aloud from Section 106-196 of the Code of Ordinances, which addresses Appeals. 4. ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS Masood Malik presented an update on developments in the City. 5. BOARD COMMENTS Rod Rothermel commented about an experience he had with the City in which he was not offered proper assistance. He wants to make sure the City treats everyone the same by offering assistance to all who need it. Board Members are looking forward to meeting the new Planning Director.