HomeMy WebLinkAboutO-2008-1501-F6 scup08-003 women’s substance abuse recovery center, Light Industrial Zone, 942 South 14th Street
REQUEST FOR CITY COUNCIL AGENDA ITEM
Appropriation
Requested By: Tim Tietiens
Source of Funds: NA
Account Number: NA
Department:
Planninl!
Amount Budgeted: NA
Report: -X-Resolution: _Ordinance:_X_
Amount Requested: NA
Attachments:
Ordinance
P&Z Staff Report
Aerial Map
Public Notice Response
Budl!et Item:
NA
SUMMARY
The Planning and Zoning Commission, during its July 17, 2008, meeting, held a public hearing to receive
citizen comments regarding Special Conditional Use Permit Request #SCU08-003. Pastor Karen Wilhelm
c/o Christ Lutheran Church, seeks approval of a Special Conditional Use Permit (SCUP) for operating a
women's substance abuse recovery center at 942 South 14th Street. The subject property is located within
the vicinity of major commercial center along Fairmont Parkway and State Highway 146. The property is
zoned Light Industrial (Ll) and a Special Conditional Use Permit is required per Code of Ordinances.
The applicant is working towards developing or converting a portion of an existing building, which also
houses a children's daycare center into a transitional house for women. The facility will be used to provide
physical, mental, and residential help to the women up to one year for rehabilitation and to build healthier
behaviors to become responsible, healthy, and to live a normal life in the community. As per the
applicant, acceptance to this program will be made by a qualified board of directors. The on-site staff will
be appointed by the board to meet the needs for this program. A copy of the rules and regulations
pertaining to the operation of the proposed facility is provided in this regard.
As this building is directly across from the Kroger Shopping Center and other major commercial
establishments, safety and security is a major concern. Enforcement of the general rules for operating this
facility is imperative to ensure welfare, safety, and the best interest of the community.
Public Notices were mailed to seven (7) property owners. One response was received in opposition of the
request. By unanimous vote, the Planning and Zoning Commission has recommended City Council consider
approval of Special Conditional Use Permit #SCU 08-003 with the conditions as listed in the SCUP attached.
Action Required bv Council:
1. Conduct a Public hearing.
Consider Planning and Zoning Commission recommendation to approve Special Conditional Use
Permit #SCU 08-003 for operating a women's recovery center at 942 S. 14th Street.
Ron Bottoms, City Manager
ORDINANCE NO. 1501- 15 D I ..- r ("
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE CODE OF ORDINANCES OF THE CITY OF LA PORTE, CHAPTER
106, MORE COMMONLY REFERRED TO AS THE ZONING ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF LA
PORTE, BY GRANTING A SPECIAL CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT #SCU08-003 FOR THAT CERTAIN
PARCEL OF LAND DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS, TO-WIT: 2.44 ACRE TRACT DESCRIBED AS LOTS
1 THRU 32, BLOCK 867, INCLUDING TR A (ABANDONED ALLEY), JOHNSON HUNTER SURVEY,
ABSTRACT 35, LA PORTE, HARRIS COUNTY, TEXAS FOR THE PURPOSE OF DEVELOPING A
WOMEN'S RECOVERY CENTER AT 942 SOUTH 14TH STREET IN A LIGHT INDUSTRIAL (L1) ZONE;
MAKING CERTAIN FINDINGS OF FACT RELATED TO THE SUBJECT; FINDING COMPLIANCE
WITH THE OPEN MEETINGS LAW; AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE HEREOF;
BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA PORTE:
"Section 1.
The City Council of the City of La Porte hereby finds, determines and
declares that heretofore, to-wit, on the 1 ih day of July, 2008, at 6:00 p.m. a Public Hearing was
held before the Planning and Zoning Commission of the City of La Porte, Texas, pursuant to
due notice as required by the Open Meetings Law, Chapter 551, Texas Government Code, to
consider the question and the possible reclassification of the zoning classification of the
hereinafter described parcels of land. There is attached to this Ordinance as Exhibit "A", and
incorporated by reference herein and made a part hereof for all purposes, a copy of Notice of
Public Hearing, which the City Council of the City of La Porte hereby finds was properly mailed
to all owners of all properties located within two hundred feet (200') of the properties under
consideration.
"Section 2. The publisher's affidavit of publication of notice of said hearing is attached
hereto as Exhibit "B", incorporated by reference herein and made a part hereof for all purposes.
"Section 3.
On July 17, 2008, the Planning and Zoning Commission of the City of La
Porte met in regular session to consider changes in classification, which were the subject of
such public hearing. The City Council of the City of La Porte is in receipt of the written
recommendations of the City of La Porte Planning and Zoning Commission, by letter dated on
the 18th day of July, 2008, a true copy of which letter is attached hereto as Exhibit "C",
incorporated by reference herein and made a part hereof for all purposes.
ORDINANCE NO. 1501- F '(,
Page 2
"Section 4.
Subsequent to receipt of the recommendation of the City of La Porte
Planning and Zoning Commission, the City Council of the City of La Porte called a public
hearing on the proposed classification changes and the recommendation of the Planning and
Zoning Commission on the 11th day of August, 2008, at 6:00 p.m., and pursuant to due notice,
to consider the recommendation of the Planning and Zoning Commission regarding the possible
reclassification of the zoning classification of the hereinafter described parcels of land. There is
attached to this Ordinance as Exhibit "0", incorporated by reference herein and made a part
hereof for all purposes, a copy of the notice of public hearing.
"Section 5.
The publisher's affidavit of publication of notice of said hearing is attached
hereto as Exhibit "E", and incorporated by reference herein and made a part hereof for all purposes.
"Section 6.
The conditions of the said Special Conditional Use Permit are as set forth
in the incorporated terms of the Special Conditional Use Permit, a true copy of which is attached
hereto as Exhibit "F". The description of said parcels of land classified pursuant to said Special
Conditional Use Permit is as follows, to-wit:
A 2.44 acre tract described as lots 1 thru 32, block 867, including TR A (abandoned alley),
Johnson Hunter Survey, Abstract No. 35, La Porte, Harris County, Texas.
"Section 7.
The City Council of the City of La Porte hereby finds, determines, and
declares that all prerequisites of law have been satisfied and hereby determines and declares
that the amendments to the City of La Porte Zoning Map and Classification contained in this
Ordinance as amendments thereto are desirable and in furtherance of the goals and objectives
stated in the City of La Porte's Comprehensive Plan.
"Section 8.
The City Council officially finds, determines, recites and declares that a
sufficient written notice of the date, hour, place and subject of this meeting of the City Council
was posted at a place convenient to the public at the City Hall of the City for the time required
by law preceding this meeting, as required by the Open Meetings Law, Chapter 551, Texas
ORDINANCE NO. 150]- f/fr,
Page 3
Government Code; and that this meeting has been open to the public as required by law at all
times during which this ordinance and the subject matter thereof has been discussed,
considered and formally acted upon. The City Council further ratifies, approves and confirms
such written notice and the contents and posting thereof.
"Section 9. This Ordinance shall be in effect from and after its passage and approval.
Passed and approved this the I Hi- day of BIYj-' 2008.
CITY aKA PORTE ..v
By: L~Lk1>r-' 0 ~ ) ~
ALTON PORTER, Mayor
ATTEST:
BY~Ad4liL
MAR HA GILL , City Secretary
APPROVED:
By U~ -;:- Ayt...~
CLA ASKINS, Assistant City Attorney
#SCU 08-003
THE STATE OF TEXAS
COUNTY OF HARRIS
CITY OF LA PORTE
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
In accordance with the provisions of Section 106-171 of the Code of Ordinances of the City
of La Porte, and the provisions of the Texas Local Government Code, notice is hereby given that the
La Porte Planning and Zoning Commission will conduct a public hearing at 6:00 P.M. on the 17th
day of July, 2008, in the Council Chambers of the City Hall, 604 West Fairmont Parkway, La
Porte, Texas. The purpose of this hearing is to consider Special Conditional Use Permit Request
#SCU08-003, which has been requested for a 2.44 acre tract described as lots 1 thru 32, block 867,
including TR A abandoned alley, Town of La Porte, Johnson Hunter Survey, Abstract 35, La Porte,
Harris County, Texas. The property is located in the 900 block of S. 14th Street. Pastor Karen
Wilhelm c/o Christ Lutheran Church is seeking approval of a permit for the development of women
recovery facility, which is classified as a conditional use in a Light Industrial (LI) zone.
A regular meeting of the Planning and Zoning Commission will follow the public hearing
for the purpose of acting upon the public hearing items and to conduct other matters pertaining to
the Commission.
Citizens wishing to address the Commission pro or con during the Public Hearing will be
required to sign in before the meeting is convened.
CITY OF LA PORTE
Martha Gillett, TRMC, CMC
City Secretary
A quorum of City Council members may be present and participate in discussions during this meeting, however, no
action will be taken by Council.
This facility has disability accommodations available. Requests for accommodations or interpretive services at
meetings should be made 48 hours prior to the meeting. Please contact the City Secretary's office at (281) 471-5020
or TDD Line (281) 471-5030for further information.
EXHIBIT A
iE STATE OF TEXAS
::>1JNT'( OF HARRIS
TXJ)f~-PUHI t:'"
I 'r-"n~..:,.'''"
281-471-1234
Fax 281-471-5763
I 820 S. 8th Street
~)La Porte, Texas 77571
01 'the e Of
I 'the iIy
rt the
"pI e' Texas L
ovemme . Code,
hereby' given that
I Porte Planning
)ning Commission
Induct a public ring
6:00 . P.M. on t 17th
IY of July, 2008, the
ouneil 'ChambelS the
iIy Hall, 604 We Fair-:
ont Parkway, La, Porte,
lX8S, The pu' 01
is hearing is ' to nsider
=ICond'ltion! eq~:: City of La Porte
~CU08-003,. whO has, .
lEin requested for; a 2,44 i County of Hams
:re tract desc as ,
Is 1 thru 32, ' 867, State of Texas
c:luding TR , . aban-
mad aDey, Tow of La
:lrte Johnson Hunter
u~, !AbSt~ct 35, La Before me the undersigned authority, on this date came and
:lrte, Hams County, . , '
:~ inn:e ",~ ! appeared Adam Yanelli, a duly authorized representative of The
are~ ~:::el; ~:: Bayshore Sun, a semi-weekly newspaper published and generally
~he:ro~~urc~ ~~ distributed in the City of La Porte, Harris County, Texas and who
~me~e r= en~cil~ after bein duly sworn, swears the attached notice was published in
hich is cI as, a The Bay ore u a ed 6/29/08
>ndftional use a Ughl
dustrial (L1} zo
regUlar
Iannlrig
ommission
e public hea
Jrpose 01 ,'ng upon
e public . ring items Adam Y
'ld to cond other mat-
'IS pertaini to the
ommission, '
toad-
'es5. the. Commi~ion
'0 . or . con' during' the
ubIlC Heari . wiD be. re-
Jired to si in' before
iEl meeling is convened,
RE:
PUBLIC NOTICE
CITY OF LA PORTE
SPEC COND PERMIT #SCU08-003
Sworn and subscribed before me this
June ,2008.
~klJto-d-
Notary Public
Harris County, Texas
30th
day of
My Commission Exprires 03-13-2012
y' """"" "" "'" III , """ , , 111111111111111"" I
E' ~~<~Y PUB,,<- DEBORAH SUE STOUT ~
:: * ~ * NOTARY PUBLIC =
= ':,:, ~ '., STATE OF TEXAS =
= ~>': +l': C =
- 'OF1~ omm, Exp, 03-13-2012 =
n," III 1111111111 "" 11fI1/"" "''' 11111/111/1111110
EXHIBIT B
City of La Porte
Established 1892
Honorable Mayor Alton Porter and City Council
City of La Porte
Dear Mayor Porter and Council:
The La Porte Planning and Zoning Commission, during a regular meeting on July 17,2008, considered
Special Conditional Use Permit #SCU 08-003. Pastor Karen Wilhelm c/o Christ Luthern Church, seeks
approval ofa proposed Women's Recovery Center to be located at 942 South 14th Street.
The Planning and Zoning Commission, by unanimous vote, recommended City Council consider approval
of Special Conditional Use Permit #SCU08-003 with the following conditions:
1. This Special Conditional Use Permit is specifically limited for a women's substance abuse recovery center.
2. Owner shall implement admission policy approved by the City, but not less than following:
. Residents shall be disallowed if convicted or any felony offense within three years prior to
application, or if convicted of any sex offense at any time.
. Residents shall not be minors.
3. Owner shall implement policies regarding continued residency approved by the City, but not less than the
following:
. Those submitted by the Light of Hope missionary.
. Residents shall not loiter, pan handle or exhibit any disruptive behavior on and off-property.
4. A certificate of non-profit organization shall be provided to the City.
5. Regular or frequent inspection log shall be kept in the building.
6. Entrance to the adjoining daycare center shall be separate.
7. No lounging around the parking and building shall be allowed.
8. Any noise level shall be closely monitored.
9. Maximum occupancy shall be posted at the building.
10. All building modifications under current codes shall be permitted by the City.
11. Restriping of the parking lot shall be required and layout plan be submitted to the City to determine
adequate parking.
12. Outdoor activities shall not be allowed in the parking areas and on the north side ofthe building.
13. No outside lights or any fixtures/equipment shall be allowed.
14. Any new signage requires a separate sign permit from the City.
15. Exterior building design standards, if proposed, shall be approved by the City.
16. Landscaping shall be maintained by the applicants/tenants.
17. A certificate of occupancy shall be required.
18. The Developer shall comply with all applicable laws and ordinances of the City and the State of Texas.
Ji:;ct lIy SUbm;:
Pat Muston
Chairperson, Planning and Zoning Commission
c:
Ron Bottoms, City Manager
Clark Askins, Assistant City Attorney
Planning and Zoning Commission
604 W. Fairmont Pkwy. · La Porte, Texas 77571 · (281) 471-5020
EXHIBIT C
#SCU 08-003
THE STATE OF TEXAS
COUNTY OF HARRIS
CITY OF LA PORTE
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
In accordance with the provisions of Section 106-171 of the Code of Ordinances of the City
of La Porte, and the provisions of the Texas Local Government Code, notice is hereby given that the
La Porte City Council will conduct a public hearing at 6:00 P.M. on the 11th day of August, 2008,
in the Council Chambers of the City Hall, 604 West Fairmont Parkway, La Porte, Texas. The
purpose of this hearing is to consider Special Conditional Use Permit Request #SCU08-003, which
has been requested for a 2.5 acre tract described as lots 1 thru 32, block 867, including TR A
abandoned alley, Town of La Porte, Johnson Hunter Survey, Abstract 35, La Porte, Harris County,
Texas. The property is located in the 900 block of S. 14th Street. Pastor Karen Wilhelm c/o Christ
Lutheran Church is seeking approval of a permit for the development of women's recovery facility,
which is classified as a conditional use in a Light Industrial (LI) zone.
A regular meeting of the City Council will follow the public hearing for the purpose of
acting upon the public hearing items and to conduct other matters pertaining to the Council.
Citizens wishing to address the Council pro or con during the Public Hearing will be
required to sign in before the meeting is convened.
CITY OF LA PORTE
Martha Gillett, TRMC, CMC
City Secretary
A quorum of City Council members may be present and participate in discussions during this meeting, however, no
action will be taken by Council.
This facility has disability accommodations available. Requests for accommodations or interpretive services at
meetings should be made 48 hours prior to the meeting. Please contact the City Secretary's office at (281) 471-5020
or TDD Line (281) 471-5030for further information.
EXHIBJT D
HE SIAlI';. "l<Tg:I\S
OUNTY OF HARRIS
ITY OF LA PORTE
820 S. 8th Street
~ Porte, Texas 77571
B:...,...
..
281-471-1234
Fax 281-471-5763
}..
~.~::r~Th e
s hereby given ~ha! th.e
.a Porte City ~nCd wdl
; onduct a PUbli.. he aring
Jt 6:00 P.M. on ~he 11~h
~ay of August,. 008. In
the Council Cha bars 01
the City Hall,' West
Fairmont. pa~Y. La
Porte Texas. " he pur- r""t f L P rt
pose' 01 this h.~a..ng is to~. I Y 0 a 0 e
consider Specla. Condi- ~ ty f H .
tional Use Pe < n Re-!JOUn 0 arns
~~~: has ftl:~08_~: State of Texas
quested lor a .5 acre
tract described... lots 1
:~ i~' ~OC~ba..7~n~dU~:~. efore me, the undersigned authority, on this date came and
ley Town of Porte.
=~~ ~;ntt s~=:\Ppeared Adam Yane.IIi, a duly authorized representative of The
Harris Cou~'1 t"edexa~~ayshore Sun, a semI-weekly newspaper published and generally
The properly i oca I,
the 900 block f s. 1W4\~ listributed in the City of La Porte, Harris County, Texas and who
Street. Pastor reo. - \,.
~~~rchcl\ Ch ki;:he:rter being duly sworn, swears the attached notice was published in
proval of a p , n lor th,e h, e Bayshore Sun te 7 / 27 / 0 8
developmem . women s
recovery facili . which is'
classified as conditio~al
use in a Li, t Industnal
(L1) zone. ~
A regular mung of the:
City Council II Iollow the.....
public hearing .Ior the pur-Jam
pose 01 a? . . upon the
public hean , nems and
to conduct . ther mailers
pertaining to tf Council.
Citizens w~ing to ad-
dress the ,f;ouncil . pro or
con.duri~ . .the. P~blic
Hearing will, be 'reqUired
10sign.in . before the Vorn and subscribed before me this 29th
mEleling is convened.
July ,2008.
~Jtkd
Harris County, Texas
re Sun
RE:
PUBLIC NOTICE
CITY OF LA PORTE
SCUOS-003
day of
My Commission Exprires 03-13-2012
EXtil oi r
c.
City of La Porte
Special Conditional Use Permit # SCU 08-003
This permit is issued to:
Pastor Karen Wilhelm
Owner or Agent
2530 S. Broadway, La Porte, TX 77571
Address
For Development of:
Liaht of Hope (% house for women)
Development Name
942 South 14th Street. La Porte, TX 77571
Address
Legal Description:
Lots 1 thru 32, TR A. abandoned alley, Block 867, Town of La Porte
Johnson Hunter Survey, Abstract 35,La Porte, Harris County, Texas.
Zoning:
Liaht Industrial (L1)
Use:
Women's Recovery Center
Permit Conditions:
1. This Special Conditional Use Permit is specifically limited for a women's substance abuse recovery center.
2. Owner shall implement admission policy approved by the City, but not less than following:
· Residents shall be disallowed if convicted or any felony offense within three years prior to application,
or if convicted of any sex offense at any time.
. Residents shall not be minors.
3. Owner shall implement policies regarding continued residency approved by the City, but not less than following:
· Those submitted by the Light of Hope missionary.
· Residents shall not loiter, pan handle or exhibit any disruptive behavior on and off-property.
4. A certificate of non-profit organization shall be provided to the City.
5. Regular or frequent inspection log should be kept in the building.
6. Entrance to the adjoining daycare center should be separate.
7. No lounging around the parking and building shall be allowed.
8. Any noise level shall be closely monitored.
9. Maximum occupancy shall be posted at the building.
10. All building modifications under current codes shall be permitted by the City.
11. Restriping of the parking lot shall be required and layout plan be submitted to the City to determine adequate
parking.
12. Outdoor activities shall not be allowed in the parking areas and on the north side of the building.
13. No outside lights or any fixtures/equipment shall be allowed.
14. Any new signage requires a separate sign permit from the City.
EXHfBIT ~
15. Exterior building design standards, if proposed, shall be approved by the City.
16. Landscaping shall be maintained by the applicants/tenants.
17. A certificate of occupancy shall be required.
18. The Developer shall comply with all applicable laws and ordinances of the City and the State of Texas.
Failure to occupy the building within 12 months after issuance or as scheduled under the terms of a special
conditional use permit shall void the permit as approved, except upon an extension of time granted after
application to the Planning and Zoning Commission.
If contract or agreement is terminated after completion of any stage and there is ample evidence that further
development is not contemplated, the ordinance establishing such special conditional use permit may be rescinded
by the City Council, upon its own motion or upon the recommendation of the Planning and Zoning Commission of
the City of La Porte, and the previous zoning of the entire tract shall be in full effect on the portion which is
undeveloped.
Validation Date: ~ ' 11 ~ 0 'i
(]~rec~~ing
dtidA~
City Secretary
Staff Report
July 17,2008
Request:
Requested Bv:
Requested For:
Location:
Present Zonin!!::
Requested Use:
Back2round:
Analvsis:
Christ Lutheran Church
Women's Recovery Center
Special Conditional Use Permit #08-003
Special Conditional Use Permit Request #08-003
Pastor Karen Wilhelm
Approximately 2.5 acre tract described as lots 1 thru 32, block 867, including
TR A abandoned alley, Town of La Porte, Johnson Hunter Survey, Abstract
No.35, La Porte, Harris County, Texas.
942 South 14th Street
Light Industrial (Ll)
Applicant is seeking a Special Conditional Use Permit (SCUP) for the
purpose of developing a women's recovery facility at 942 South 14th Street
near a major commercial center along Fairmont Parkway and State Highway
146. A Special Conditional Use Permit is required for the proposed
development to be located within a Light Industrial (Ll) zone.
The applicant is working towards developing or converting a portion of an
existing building, which also houses a daycare center and resale shop, into a
halfway house for women, who are searching for help. The facility will be
used to provide physical, mental, and residential help to the women up to
one year for rehabilitation and to build healthier behaviors to become
responsible, healthy, and to live a normal life in the community. As per the
applicant, acceptance to this program will be made by a qualified board of
directors. The directors and staff will be educated and qualified to meet
the needs for this program. A copy of the rules and regulations pertaining
to the operation of the proposed facility is attached for your review.
Code of Ordinances Section 106-217 establishes the following review
criteria and conditions for approval of Special Conditional Use Permits:
· That the specific use will be compatible with and not injurious to the use
and enjoyment of the other property, nor significantly diminish or impair
property values within the immediate vicinity.
· That the conditions placed on such use, as specified in each district, have
been met by the applicant.
HalfWay House
SCU08-003
Page 2 of4
. That the applicant has agreed to meet any additional conditions imposed,
based on specific site constraints necessary to protect the public interest
and welfare of the community.
Land Use - The City's Land Use Plan shows this area developing with
commercial uses. The existing land uses of nearby properties are
predominantly commercial. The subject property is in the vicinity of major
commercial retail developments or businesses along Fairmont Parkway and
State Highway 146. The proposed development is contrary to the intent of
the land use plan.
Building Codes - The proposal for this halfway house shows 18 women
plus house manager will live/sleep at the location, which will require a fire
sprinkler system. I-hour rated corridors, walls, ceilings, and doors shall be
placed between the resale shop and the halfway house. In addition, a manual
visible/audible fire alarm shall be required in the resident's sleeping areas.
Automatic smoke detection system shall be required for corridors, sleeping
units, kitchen, and waiting areas adjacent to corridors. For emergency escape
and rescue, each sleeping room must have a window or door that opens
directly to the outside. Other requirements for 19 occupants are 3 showers, 2
water closets, 2 lavatories, 1 service sink, and 1 water fountain. Compliance
with the State mandated Energy Code, Texas Accessibility Standards (T AS),
and American Disabilities Act (ADA) shall also be required.
Safety & Security - Public safety is one of the primary responsibilities of a
municipality, particularly with regard to health, security, and welfare of the
community. Strategic planning also mandates to provide for a safe and
secure living environment for the community's residents as well as a safe
destination for visitors to the City. It also protects property rights and
enhances property values. Enforcement of the general rules for operating this
facility is imperative. Any compromise of the rules, regulation, safety, and
security will result in a facility, which will be harmful and not in the best
interest of the community. A subject list of tentative policies and procedures
is as follow:
. Alcohol or drugs use
. Smoking
. Meetings/studies
. Medication
. Chores and duties
. Telephone usage
. Rent
. Curfew
. Job/employment
With strict compliance to the rules and regulations, the proposed use may
have minimal impact on the surrounding properties.
HalfWay House
SCUD8-DD3
Page 3 of 4
Conclusion:
Transportation The transportation system should adequately
accommodate through traffic and continue to provide for free flow of people,
goods and services. There will be no new driveway added to this facility.
The traffic flow within and between the commercial developments and
throughout the community should not be affected by the proposed
development.
Utilities - Staff has reviewed existing facilities and services for each of the
components of the utility system for the proposed development. Existing
water is adequate for potable and fire protection needs. Sanitary sewer
service is available to the property. The applicant is to ensure that
infrastructure is in place to handle additional water and sewer service needs
for this development. As a developed property, storm drainage sheet flows to
the existing storm sewer system along South 14th Street.
If approved, the building and parking lot should comply with all applicable
zoning regulations. Restriping of the parking lot shall be required. The City's
design standard per Section 106-835 of the Code of Ordinances shall be
applicable for standard and accessible parking space size, and maneuvering
aisle width. The location of handicap parking spaces should be appropriate.
Access from the parking lot to the building seems to be reasonable. In
addition, staff will ensure that there will be no outside lighting in the parking
lot, to avoid any conflict with the surrounding properties.
In addition, landscaping of the property shall be required in accordance with
Section 106-444(a) of the Code of Ordinances. Landscaping shall be
maintained by the applicants. The building shall require a certificate of
occupancy, as regulated by Section 106-142 of the Code of Ordinances.
Based on the facts and considerations presented above, if the Planning and
Zoning Commission wishes to consider approval of this Special Conditional
Use Permit, staff suggests the following conditions as a minimum be added:
· This Special Conditional Use Permit is specifically limited for a
women's substance abuse recovery center.
· Owner shall implement admission policy approved by the City, but not
less than following:
Residents shall be disallowed if convicted or any felony offense
within three years prior to application, or if convicted of any sex
offense at any time.
Residents shall not be minors.
· Owner shall implement policies regarding continued residency approved
by the City, but not less than the following:
Those submitted by the Light of Hope missionary.
Residents shall not loiter, pan handle or exhibit any disruptive
behavior on and off-property.
. A certificate of non-profit organization shall be provided to the City.
HalfWay House
SCD08-003
Page 4 of 4
. Regular or frequent inspection log should be kept in the building.
. Entrance to the adjoining daycare center should be separate.
. No lounging around the parking and building shall be allowed.
. Any noise level shall be closely monitored.
. Maximum occupancy shall be posted at the building.
. All building modifications under current codes shall be permitted by the
City.
. Restriping of the parking lot shall be required and layout plan be
submitted to the City to determine adequate parking.
. Outdoor activities shall not be allowed in the parking areas and on the
north side of the building.
. No outside lights or any fixtures/equipment shall be allowed.
. Any new signage requires a separate sign permit from the City.
. Exterior building design standards, if proposed, shall be approved by
the City.
. Landscaping shall be maintained by the applicants/tenants.
. A certificate of occupancy shall be required.
. The Developer shall comply with all applicable laws and ordinances of
the City and the State of Texas.
Options available to the Commission:
. Recommend to Council approval of this SCUP with additional
conditions.
. Recommend to Council denial of this SCUP.
. Table the item for further consideration by the Commission.
"""""
,..
h'>~..
~!".
.I-
m ;~
.:r
I-
~ 'c:D
..,.-
~,~
~--..:..
~t
'-
~
~
J
v
.
;1
..
,
~
--1
-- - - s,
i&
. ..,.......
.;.
.oIilIliIiI!
L
-!-- ",.",,",
'fJ)
Z
!-
-'t-
'r ~r
iz:'.$:;;';'~
rn",
. ~.~~~"m;
,. ."~ ST
WH '.
.,- ~ 1='
all '.- k
.~ 14 ,,' ~
i :( L ~, \,"
I , ~.:..J. ~ ~.
'1 A..:: ~~ \:
,... ~ j.;.
- "-..
-,
~
~
..
~-
It=,.
~~,~
-;''',
~";-~Lt~;~~-:~.
<~~~c:~:;-
~~'.- . .
\'i";,
...
.A
.<'
.....
~-
(;
'"
It'~.
!.
I
'(
, .
".~
,.....
~-
.,
. .
.,
"~ ~
"
.;, r f~
"
'-
-..
,.
-'
,
r
-B.-.
a
.
t.
. ,~. ~
~-
-12
~
.~
'"
JlI!'1IIIiri
..
11\
I
'~/l\t~;
_'1
~ ~
~
1/1
'"
r
--'':
ilh.~~
,. :..
-", .
j . ~ ,
'.
Scheduled for
/~~ @ if 0 [VJ ~I~
UIJ JUL 1 0 2008 @
8Y~
A Meeting of the La Porte
Pla~ and Zoning Commission
(Type of Meeting)
July 17, 2008
(Date of Meeting)
to Consider
Special Conditional Use Permit - #SCU 08-003
(Type of Request)
I have received nOTIce of the above refer=ced public hearing.
I am in FAVOR of granting this request for the following reasons:
I am OPPOSED to granting this request for the following reasons:
fL E:.{..tG: ..sE~ A rTA Cllt"o L 6 TTc/z'
I=KIC L-t?Wt::.'-NTNAL
~ ~=e (pl= print:
~~~~
Signature
696 I( I A4 A::o c,..t ~.1:>.
Address
iC c;tf.1( V; L L ~. T X 7 Y 02 f- 7 Ctf? I
I (
City, State, Zip
ERIC LOWENTHAL
696 Rim Rock Road
Kerrville, TX 78028-7001
July 9, 2008
,w~@~ow~~
1m JUL I 0 2DDB WJi
Mr. Masood Malik, City Planner
City of LaPorte Planning Department
604 W. Fairmont Parkway
LaPorte, TX 77571
By
Re: SCUP #08-003 Permit Request
Dear Mr. Malik:
As trustee for nearby Blocks 863 and 866, I wish to register my opposition to the subject request and I
ask you to bring my protest to the attention of the Planning and Zoning Commission and the LaPorte
City Council.
It is my understanding that, if the permit request is granted, the building on Block 867 will also be used
as a half-way house. Persons living in half-way houses usually end up there for several reasons:
They have been released from a mental institution, are not yet rehabilitated and need
continued supervision.
They are drug users, child molesters or sex offenders, who, after incarceration, have
been ordered by the court to a half-way house for continued monitoring.
Proposed building modifications have not been available. Nevertheless, I am surprised that the applicant
would arrange to have persons of uncertain stability or questionable character housed next to a day
care center. I doubt that parents would knowingly keep their children in the adjacent facility. I wonder if
customers of the Kroger shopping center next door would feel comfortable knowing there is a half-way
house on the other side of the street. Likewise, a business operator would think twice before locating a
business across the street from a half-way house, thus depressing the value of nearby vacant land.
I have observed one half-way house in Kerrville, where the residents are often lounging around on the
front lawn without supervision and are not always inside. I have been told by neighbors of another half-
way house (in Houston), that the house is often noisy, that the house has been wantonly damaged and
not repaired - to the detriment of the neighborhood.
Half-way houses are generally government funded on a head count basis: the more people are housed,
the more money comes in. It is therefore in the interest of the owner to house the maximum number of
residents, and that, in turn, tends to allow the most deviant cases to be accepted also. This would apply
even to a not-for-profit operator, who would not want to have to subsidize the operation.
Although half-way houses are supposed to be inspected by a government agency regularly, we all know
that tight government budgets do not allow inspections as frequently as we all would like.
Consequently, a poor or unsafe operation of a half-way house may not be corrected for a long time: the
neighborhood - the City - would be the loser.
Thank you for giving your consideration to my concerns.
,
~
EXHJBJT
~
t
Liglit of:J-(ope
Catfiy's )lngefs
% J{ouse for Women
942 S outli 14th ,Street
LaCForte, rre~as
77571
A ministry of seitjJw 4 Christ 2530S. Broadway, LaPorte, Tx. 77571
\hi\hi\M linhtnf(--hristAic-n (~nrn
LilJlit oj1fope
Ministry of g:,ifJIw 0/ Christ
Cathy'sJInge{
Director's T estimon'y:
God gave me a Vision. Let me back up before I go there. I had
a sister who was killed in a car accident. Her disease took her
out one more time, and another's man disease killed her on her
wa'y home October 17, 20ot. Her name was Cath'y and her
death has changed m'y life. God gave me a Vision and a
purpose. This purpose is to get involved in helping women not
go out that "one more time." For Cath'y it is'now too late but
her life has purpose. The purpose is haunting me into a passion
to help those unnamed women who are searching for help. J
pra'y that God directs them to LilJht ofJlope where the,y
find hope.......Cath,y has become m,y motivator, m,y Angel and so
her name lives in Light of Hope to work with me to keep m,y
Vision focused on working with women who want a chance at
being whole and hol'y' LilJht ofJlope, a ministr,y of ~VJIw
4 Christ, is committed to helping to heal the brokenness in the
life of women and healing behavior that imprisons them in
themselves. Our Vision and Mission keeps us focused and
dedicated to fulfill our purpose with the help of God.
Vision Statement
United by GOD
Who Brings the Light ofJlope
To Women in Recovery
~ission ..~tatement
Helping others is the Cornerstone to Recovery.
o ur GOD is our Foundation.
Peace grows by ACTS of Kindness.
Each day is a NEW beginning with GOD.
:Non-:Negotia6Ce
LilJht of1Cope
Catliy's;Ingefs.. .3/4 J{ouse of Women
Would you like to get involved in a remarkable way?
Our facility includes bedrooms, bathrooms and showers,
meditation rooms, meeting rooms, counseling areas.
You can Adopt Q Room "in memory" of someone or" in
dedication"to someone to help keep her presence alive?
For example: LaPorte Ladies Group adopted a
bedroom in Loving Memory of Kathleen Hendrix
The Name of your group or person will be placed on a
plaque above the door of the room you adopt.
Adopting your room, including paint color and all
furnishings, must have Director's Approval. Anything
nailed or hung must be done properly taking utmost
consideration for the facility.
Conditions of Adoption:
1. Bedroom: Each bedroom will need two twin beds, two
nightstands with lamps. You will provide and apply paint,
provide and hang pictures and provide bedding. Please choose
furnishings and "nik naks" that will help to keep alive the
memory of the person you are honoring and they must be in
excellent shape and are appropriate and pleasing for a female
bedroom.
2. Bathroom: You will provide and apply paint, hang
appropriate wall plaques/pictures/decor. All furnishings
are to be in excellent shape and are appropriate for the
room you adopted.
3.Meditation Room: Provide and apply paint, provide
good quality furnishings, comfortable chairs, side tables,
lamps, book cases, plants (live or silk), wall plaques,
hangings, pictures or other appropriate decor. All articles
are in excellent shape and are appropriate for the room
you adopted.
4.0pen Meeting/Fellowship Room: This is Liglit of
Jfope's largest, most exposed and highest trafficed
room with public entrance. Strong and comfortable sofas
and chairs in excellent shape, tables and book shelves
that match decor and appropriate pictures, hangings,
mirrors, plaques that blend with colors and design, are
what will take to memorialize this room.
Please contact: Director
Marie Meehan 713/248-9508
Assistant to the Director
Theresa Behr - 713/592-2297
Admission to Liglit ofJ[ope
Women requesting residency must:
1. Fill out application
2. Go through a background check
3. Provide a list of all medication currently taking
4. Be interviewed by designated panel of three people
5. Read, understand, and sign a copy of all documents.
After all paperwork is returned and interview is complete
you will be contacted, to confirm or deny the date and
time of your entry, by the Director.
Your signature indicates that you have read all
Rules, Policies & Procedures and that you agree to the
terms listed herein as conditions of becoming a Resident
of Lig lit of J-rope.
Signature
Date
Witness
Date
Catliy's}lngefS... -% J{ouse for Women
Rules with Zero Tolerance...that call for
immediate dismissal when broken.
1. No Violence
2. No Threats of Violence
3. No Weapons
4. No Stealing on or off Property (including food)
5. No Vandalism of Light ofJ-(ope'sproperty.
6. No Sexual Harassment
7. No Sexual Interaction on Property
8. No Drugs and/or Alcohol on or off Property
9. No Racial or Sexual Slurs
10. No Pornographic material of any kind on Property
11. No new male relationships will be allowed
General Rules
Violation = write up. Three write ups = dismissal.
1. Men are not allowed at Light ofJ-(ope except on Family Day.
2. You must be clean and sober for 30 days.
3. You will have background criminal check.
4. You may bring your car if it has valid insurance, stickers,
and drivers license.
5. You are not allowed to loan your car to another Resident.
6. A Resident's personal and private space and property includes
clothes closet, dresser drawers, plastic containers, personal
food, and hygiene items. Bedrooms are off-limits for visiting.
7. All Residents personal food and hygiene items must be clearly
marked and put in your bins. Refrigerator items must have name
and date.
9. Food is not allowed in bedrooms.
10. All residents are required to help prepare meals.
11. The only T.V. will be in the meeting/fellowship room.
12. Resident and staff must help keep all utility costs down.
Lights are out by 11:00 p.m. during the week and 12:00 a.m. on
weekends. Please turn off lights, fans, T.V. and electronic
devices when you leave a room. If water in toilets run
continuously, please notify staff immediately.
This is your home. Treat it as such.
13. Weekly, one hour in-house meetings, to resolve house and
Resident-related issues that have unfolded during the week are,
mandatory. If you are working let the Director, who sets the day
and time for the meeting know.
14. Light ofJiope will provide (if needed):
* Bedding
* Bins (for food and hygiene supplies)
* Personal Hygiene Supplies (when available)
* Cleaning Supplies
* Towels
* Meals
* Laundry Facility
* Spiritual Counseling- (See Pastor Karen Wilhelm)
* Parking Space
16. Computer needs will be addressed on an individual basis.
Policies & Procedures
Table of Contents:
I. A Icohol or Drugs on Premise
II. Smoking on Premise
III. Meetings/Studies
IV. Medication
V. Chores and Duties
VI. Telephone Usage
VII. Rent
VIII. Curfew
IX. Job/Employment
I. Alcohol or Drugs on Premise
* UA stands for Urine Ana/ysis
1. Any use of Alcohol or Drugs will result in immediate dismissal.
2. Refusal of a UA* will results in an immediate dismissal.
3. You must remain in living room until UA is completed.
4. A positive UA results in supervised vacating of property within
30 minutes.
5. Refusal of UA will be treated as a positive result.
6. Refusal to vacate on time will result in calling police to assist.
7. After a Weekend Pass (or extended curfew) all Residents must
submit a UA to the Director or House Manager on duty.
6. Each Resident is responsible to report to staff immediately
any suspicion she has of Drug or Alcohol use at Liglit ofJ[ope. If
you fail to report you will be written up.
II. Smoking on the Premise
Smoking is not allowed inside Liglit of Jfope. Smoking is
ONLY allowed in Designated Smoking Areas outside.
Ashtrays must be used. Do not throw butts on the ground.
Violation will result in being written up.
III. Meetings/Studies
Violation receives write up. Three write ups = dismissal.
All Residents must:
1. Have a 12 Step Program Sponsor.
2. Attend at least three (3) in-house 12 Step
Meetings a week which includes personally
signing the 12 Step Meeting Book each time.
Important points:
a)Light ofJ[ope has 12 Step Meetings on-site, Monday
thru Saturday at 12:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m., and on
Sunday at 8:00 p.m. (Women Only)
b) Get a Sponsor and work the 12 steps with your Sponsor.
c) Everyone gets involved in "service to other projects' at
Light ofJ[ope.
d) Meetings set by Probation/courts are mandatory.
IV. Medications
Violation receives write up. Three write ups = dismissal.
1. Over-the-counter medications including mouthwash and
cough/cold medicines that contain alcohol and/or
Codeine is prohibited.
2. Narcotic pain medication and/ or benzodiazepines
(Xanax, Ativan, Klonopin) are prohibited.
3. Residents are responsible for supplying their own
medication refills.
4. Residents are not allowed to stop taking any medication
without their doctor's written permission.
5. Residents must submit an accurate and update list of their
medication at all times.
6. All medication must be locked in the Director's Office.
7. All medication will be distributed daily at 6:00 a.m. and
10:30 p.m. This may be subject to change as per
Doctor's prescription.
Important Point: Residents will not tattoo, share
razors or cut each other's hair. This is for your own
protection against infectious diseases transmitted
through blood-borne pathogens.
v. Chores and Duties
Violation receives write up. Three write ups = dismissal.
1. All residents will be responsible:
a) For cleaning their own bedroom and the bathrooms.
b) For daily chores in the common areas at Liglit ofJ(ope.
2. Room checks will be conducted Monday nights, Wednesday and
Friday afternoons.
3. Mandatory "deep cleaning" takes place every Friday afternoon.
Between 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. all Residents are to give attention to
cleaning details that do not take place during the busy workweek.
This deep cleaning is subject to change by Director. The only
exception to full participation is when the Resident is working.
The Director will assign Alternative chores if this is the case.
4. Permission to leave Liglit ofJ(ope after a "deep cleaning" day
is granted after chores have been completed and checked off by
staff.
a.) Please Note: Permission to leave will be withheld if
Resident did not complete their chores during the week.
5. A list of chores will be posted at Liglit ofJ(ope. Resident$
will be assigned chores by Director, and/or Assistant, and/or
House Manager.
6. It is the responsibility of every Resident to:
a.) Negotiate with someone to do your chores if you are working.
b.) Have chores completed by 10:30 p.m.
c.) You must complete laundry before leaving.
Unfinished Laundry will be cause for write up.
Don't start doing laundry after 10:00 p.m.
d.) Wash/dry and put away all your personal dishes immediately
after use. Nothing is to be left in the sink. Throw all paper
items in the trash. Make sure counters and floor is clean.
e.) Store all your toiletries (soap, shampoo, toothpaste, brush),
towels, and face cloths in your personal space after using.
f.) Keep your sleeping space neat and clean. Beds are made
every morning immediately after you get up.
g.) Clean up after yourself. You are required to take turns
doing dishes and pots and pans. DO NOT leave dishes for
someone else to clean-up after you.
VI. Telephone Usage
Violation receives write up. Three write ups = dismissal.
1. Residents must respect the anonymity of other Residents.
Resident information and all programs are confidential and must
not be discussed outside of Liglit of:Hope. For personal
problems see the Director, Assistant to the Director, House
Manager or your Sponsor. Pastor Karen Wilhelm is available for
private crisis/spiritual counseling.
2. When someone calls and you are the only person available to
answer the phone, please do not confirm or deny someone's
status; just say Hello and ask if you can take a message.
a. If you answer the phone you are obligated to take a message.
b. All messages must be written on the message board.
It is each Resident's responsibility to check for messages.
c. Personal calls are allowed with a 10- minute time limit.
No long distance calls.
d. No calls after 10:30 p.m. This includes cell phones.
e. Cell phones are to be set on silent mode inside the house.
All cell phone conversations are to take place outside.
f. The primary purpose of the phone is to assist in obtain
employment and/or transportation and to schedule
appo i ntments.
g. Remember that phone use is a privilege at Liglit of Jfope.
Any illegal use will result in immediate dismissal and possibly
legal consequence.
VII. Rent
Violation receives write up. Three write ups = dismissal.
1. All Residents are required to pay a non-refundable deposit of
$160.00 which includes your first week's rent.
2. Rent thereafter is $80.00 per week, due on Friday.
3. You are provided with 3 Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Supper.
If you are working you will be provided with a sack lunch.
4. No rent money is reimbursed to Residents who relapse
or are dismissed from Liglit ofJfope.
VIII. Curfew
Violation receives write up. Three write ups = dismissal.
1. New residents will not be permitted to go on an overnight pass
or have an extended curfew the first 30 days (Including
weekends ).
2. Curfew for all new Residents is 10:00 p.m. seven (7) days a
week.
3. After 30 days, curfew is 10:30 p.m. Sunday thru Thursday and
12:00 a.m. Friday & Saturday.
4. After 30 days, all Residents are required to fill out and turn in
a pass request (or extended curfew request) to the Director for
approval.
* Please note: You must turn in your weekend pass in advance.
You will be notified if a pass is not approved.
5. Everyone returning from a weekend pass must report to the
meeting/fellowship area on Sunday by 6:00p.m.
6. If for any reason you are going to be late. You must call the
House Manager, the Director or the Assistant to the Director.
7. Please note: If there is a family emergency, please notify the
Director or the House Manager on duty.
IX . Job/Employment
Violation receives write up. Three write ups = dismissal.
1. All residents must be working, or diligently looking for a job,
volunteering, or taking full-time classes.
2. If you are disabled and can't work, you must be volunteering
your time somewhere in the community.
3. Residents are responsible to get yourself to and from work.
Staff or other Residents are not responsible for your
transportation. If a Resident is kind enough to provide
transportation you must give them money for gas.
4. Residents must sign in and out and include the location and time
of return, each time they leave. This is for your own protection
for emergencies.
5. Residents must return to Light ofJ(ope after work or school
each day, before going to a meeting in the evening.
6. If you must work overtime call and let the Director know.
7. Residents can not work mixing or serving alcohol.