12-07-1995 Special Called Public Hearing and Regular Session of the La Porte Planning and Zoning Commission

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• • Moreover, the Development Plan has the potential to create an economic stimulus in the area, thus providing jobs for our citizens and an increased tax base for the city by attracting both commercial and industrial uses. The second issue in promoting development of this area relates to the existing grid system of open, undeveloped, and unutilized street right-of--ways and alleys. These public right-of-ways account for approximately 28 acres of land. Many developments such as retail shopping centers, and industrial parks will require larger areas for development than is available within the limits of a typical city block. The closing of this existing public right-of-way would create larger tracts of land more appropriate for larger general commercial and light industrial developments. By closing unutilized streets and alleys and providing infrastructure, the city would facilitate the development of approximately 57 acres of prime commercial and light industrial property. Currently, the zoning of this area consists of Light Industrial (LI) and General Commercial (GC). Light Industrial accounts for approximately 3/4 of the total zoning and occupies the majority of the interior acreage. General Commercial zoning currently abuts blocks fronting along the north side of Fairmont Parkway and the west side of S.H. 146. The process of laying the groundwork for development of this area will require building a cohesive partnership between the City of La Porte, the development community, and the owners of property. The first step in building this partnership requires the formation of a conceptual development plan by the city and property owners. This preliminary plan will then be reviewed by the Planning and Zoning Commission who will continue to work with property owners and city staff to finalize the Development Plan The initial efforts by the City and property owners should have a positive effect toward facilitating future business development Development in the northwest area of S.H 146 at Fairmont Parkway would increase City revenue base through enhanced property tax values, increased sale tax receipts, as well as employment opportunities for its citizens.