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HomeMy WebLinkAbout06-21-12 Regular Meeting of the Planning and Zoning CommissionCity of La Porte Planning and Zoning Commission Agenda Notice is hereby given of a Regular Meeting of the La Porte Planning and Zoning Commission to be held on June 21, 2012, at 6:00 P.M. at City Hall Council Chambers, 604 West Fairmont Parkway, La Porte, Texas, regarding the items of business according to the agenda listed below: 1. Call to order 2. Roll Call of Members 3. Consider approval of May 17 and May 24, 2012, meetings minutes. 4. La Porte Comprehensive Plan Update A. Review and discuss draft plan Chapter 2, Land Use & Development. B. Review of revised Future Land Use Plan. 5. Administrative Reports 6. Commission Comments on matters appearing on agenda or inquiry of staff regarding specific factual information or existing policy 7. Adjourn A quorum of City Council members may be present and participate in discussions during this meeting; however, no action will be taken by Council. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the City of La Porte will provide for reasonable accommodations for persons attending public meetings. To better serve attendees, requests should be received 24 hours prior to the meetings. Please contact Patrice Fogarty, City Secretary, at 281.470.5019. CERTIFICATION I certify that a copy of the June 21, 2012, agenda of items to be considered by the Planning and Zoning Commission was posted on the City Hall bulletin board on the day of 12012. Title: Planning and Zoning Commission Minutes of May 17, 2012 Members Present: Hal Lawler, Danny Earp, Doretta Finch, Les Bird, Helen LaCour, Richard Warren, Mark Follis, and Phillip Hoot. Members Absent: Lou Ann Martin City Staff Present: Assistant City Manager, Traci Leach; Planning Director, Tim Tietjens; City Planner, Masood Malik; City Attorney, Knox Askins; Planning Assistant, Shannon Green, Public Works Director, Dave Mick; Assistant Chief, Ron Parker; and Animal Control Supervisor; Clarence Anderson. 1. Call to order Meeting called to order by Chairman Hal Lawler at 6:OOp.m. 2. Roll Call of Members Chairman Hal Lawler asked for a roll call of members. Lou Ann Martin was not present. 3. Consider approval of April 19, 2012, meeting minutes. Motion by Phillip Hoot to approve the April 19, 2012, meeting minutes with the following corrections; Item # 4., Paragraph # 5., After discussion, Commission Members asked staff to bring Special Conditional Use Permit #12-910000001 back to the May 17, 2012 Planning & Zoning Meeting with all items required by Ordinance. Second by Helen LaCour. Motion carried. Ayes: Hal Lawler, Danny Earp, Doretta Finch, Les Bird, Helen LaCour, Richard Warren, Mark Follis, and Phillip Hoot. Nays: None Abstain: None 4. Continue Public Hearing to receive public input on Special Conditional Use Permit #12- 9100001, which has been requested for the property described as 1.403 acres along Spencer Highway, further described as Tract D, Lots 1, 2, 3 & TR 4A, Blk. 1 & Lots 1, 2, 3, 4, & TR 5, Blk. 2, W. J. Payne Subdivision, W. M. Jones Survey, Abstract No.482, La Porte, Harris County, Texas. The City of La Porte is seeking approval of a Special Conditional Use Permit for building a new Animal Shelter at 10901 Spencer Highway to be located within La Porte Municipal Airport property, which is zoned Planned Unit Development (PUD) district. A. Staff Presentation Masood Malik, City Planner, gave staff's report. The City is requesting a Special Conditional Use Permit #12-9100001 for the construction of a new Animal Control & Adoption Facility to be located at 10901 Spencer Highway. B. Proponents Dave Mick, Public Works Director, Airport Manager, and Chairman of the Airport Advisory Board, addressed the Commission. Mr. Mick informed the Commission members the Airport Advisory Board has not met since 2006. Mr. Mick plans to generate an active board when the Airport Master Plan Update begins. Reagan McPhail, Public Improvement Coordinator, addressed the Commission. Mr. McPhail informed the Commission members the walls of the new facility will be filled with sand to act as a sound barrier, and the fence around the property will be used for interaction during adoptions. The overhead doors have vents to increase airflow to prevent disease. The facility is air conditioned and is an indoor facility. No animals will be housed outside. Planning and Zoning Commission Minutes of May 17, 2012 Page 2 of 4 C. Opponents Mr. Gideon Jones, of 10403 Quiet Hill spoke the against the location of the proposed Animal Control and Adoption Facility. Mr. Jones asked Commission to consider other locations other than the Airport. Mr. Jones asked where the funds were provided from and who was pushing the idea. Mr. Jones stated this was poor planning and felt the airport would suffer from the building of a new Animal Facility on the property. Mr. Stanley Jones, of 202 Fairrington thanked the Commission for the opportunity to speak. Mr. Jones asked the Commission to provide other options for the location of the Animal Facility. Mr. Jones asked to know the process, for a better understanding, and requested the Commission to notify more people. Mr. Jones questioned the City's receipt of an award of Transparency. Chuck Rosa, of 812 S Virginia suggested the old Parks & Wildlife building be utilized as the new Animal Control & Adoption facility. D. Proponents Rebuttal Tim Tietjens, Planning Director addressed the public and the Commission. Mr. Tietjens responded to comments from the public and the Commission. It was noted that a referendum was not needed this was a policy matter, well within the jurisdiction of City Council. The general public was publicly notified on April 9, 2012, for the City Council meeting and again on April 19, 2012, for the Planning and Zoning meeting, and will be again when Special Conditional Use Permit 12-91000001 goes before City Council. The City holds the transparency award with great pride. Noise concerns have been considered, the facility is enclosed and several hundred feet away from residential. With regard to traffic concerns, Spencer Hwy was built for long term use and has a lane availability that far exceeds the needs at this time. The City hopes to either sell or lease the Texas Parks and Wildlife facility. The proposed site has been approved by the Texas Department of Transportation according to the FAA. Mr. Tietjens presented a letter at the last meeting. Drainage is not a problem at this location. This location is the highest elevation in the city. 5. Close Public Hearing. Chairman Hal Lawler closed the public hearing at 7:11 pm During discussion, Commission Members voiced concern with the location of the proposed facility and asked if City Council considered other locations. Staff replied, Council did consider other locations, and this was the best location. Commission Members were also concerned with potential noise disturbance. Staff replied, the building is structurally sound with sand in the walls and the animals will be housed indoors. Commission Members asked Staff if the plans for the parking lot and drive were in compliance. Commission Members asked if landscape requirements would be implemented and the dumpster screened. Staff replied, Landscape requirements will be implemented, which includes screening the dumpster. Commission Members also voiced concern with Fire truck access to the building. Staff replied the proposed building is in compliance. Commission Members asked when the appointment to the Airport Advisory Board had been made. Planning and Zoning Commission Minutes of May 17, 2012 Page 3 of 4 Staff will follow up and report back at the next Planning & Zoning Meeting Commission Members asked if sidewalks would be implemented. Staff answered, during the city's Beatification Project. Commission Members asked staff why the Land Use map and the text had a discrepancy. The Land Use map reads "Public Use". The text reads "Airport". Staff replied, the Land Use map supersedes the text. The text is used as guide to better understand the map. The Commission can correct that discrepancy during the Comprehensive Plan Update. Commission Member Follis distributed a proposed site plan to better utilize the parking. This would increase the cost of the budget from $10,000 to $15,000. Mr. Tietjens explained the City is trying to be cost effective. Commission Members voiced concern with the notification to affected citizens and requested new and creative ways to send notification. Staff answered, notification for public hearings are processed in accordance with City Ordinance requirements. Commission Members stated transparency is not an issue and staff does notify citizens of meetings. City Council also talks to citizens. Les Bird informed the Commission, Fairmont Park Association was informed about Special Conditional Use Permit 12-91000001. Motion by Phillip Hoot to send a letter to City Council, upon approval of Special Conditional Use Permit 12-91000001, voicing concerns raised during the public hearing about the location. Second by Richard Warren. The motion carried. Ayes: Hal Lawler, Doretta Finch, Les Bird, Mark Follis, Helen LaCour, Danny Earp, Richard Warren, and Phillip Hoot. Nays: None Abstain: None Motion by Les Bird to recommend approval of Special Conditional Use Permit 12-9100001, as written. Second by Doretta Finch. Motion by Phillip Hoot to retain detention on site. Philip Hoot withdrew the motion. Motion by Phillip Hoot to require all detention to be retained on site with no credits. Second by Danny Earp. Motion Carried. Ayes: Danny Earp, Doretta Finch, Helen LaCour, Richard Warren, and Phillip Hoot. Nays: Les Bird & Hal Lawler. Abstain: Mark Follis Motion to approve Special Conditional Use Permit 12-9100001 Carried. Ayes: Hal Lawler, Doretta Finch, Les Bird, Mark Follis, and Phillip Hoot. Nays: Richard Warren and Danny Earp. Abstain: Helen LaCour 6. Administrative Reports Masood Malik reminded Commission members of a Special Called Planning & Zoning meeting Thursday, May 24, 2012. Planning and Zoning Commission Minutes of May 17, 2012 Page 4 of 4 7. Commission Comments on matters appearing on agenda or inquiry of staff regarding specific factual information of existing policy. Commission members asked staff to consider new avenues to better inform the citizens of La Porte of Public Hearings. 8. Adjourn Motion to adjourn by Richard Warren. Second by Helen LaCour. The motion carried. The meeting adjourned at 7:54p.m. Ayes: Hal Lawler, Danny Earp, Doretta Finch, Les Bird, Helen LaCour, Richard Warren, Mark Follis, and Phillip Hoot. Nays: None Abstain: None Submitted by, Shannon Green Planning Assistant Approved on this day of , 2012. Hal Lawler Chairman Planning and Zoning Commission Planning and Zoning Commission Minutes of May 24, 2012 Members Present: Hal Lawler, Danny Earp, Doretta Finch, Les Bird, Helen LaCour, Richard Warren, Mark Follis, and Phillip Hoot. Members Absent: Lou Ann Martin City Staff Present: Assistant City Manager, Traci Leach; Planning Director, Tim Tietjens; City Planner, Masood Malik; City Attorney, Clark Askins; and Planning Assistant, Shannon Green. 1. Call to order Meeting called to order by Chairman Hal Lawler at 6:03 p.m. 2. Roll Call of Members Chairman Hal Lawler asked for a roll call of members. Lou Ann Martin was not present. 3. Consider approval of April 25, 2012, meeting minutes. Motion by Phillip Hoot to approve the April 25, 2012, meeting minutes. Second by Richard Warren. Motion carried. Ayes: Hal Lawler, Danny Earp, Doretta Finch, Les Bird, Helen LaCour, Richard Warren, Mark Follis, and Phillip Hoot. Nays: None Abstain: None 4. La Porte Comprehensive Plan Update A. Review and discuss draft plan Chapters 2 and 6. City Planner Masood Malik addressed the Commission. Mr. Mailk announced Kendig Keast consultants would be presenting the Land Use Map and discussing changes. Mr. Malik informed the Commission due to time constraints, Kendig Keast would like to move forward to item B, review of revised Future Land Use Map and add item A to a future Planning & Zoning Agenda. B. Review of revised Future Land Use Plan. Kendig Keast presented the Commission with a proposed Future Land Use Map. Commission Members and staff worked as a group to review and make changes. C. Identification of changes or revisions Commission Members discussed in length the proposed plans and made changes. The Final Future Land Use map will be presented to the Planning & Zoning Commission at the June 21, 2012, meeting. Kendig Keast consultants asked Commission Members return comments by June 8tn Chairman Hal Lawler dismissed himself from the meeting at 8:00pm. Vice Chairman Danny Earp chaired the meeting. 5. Administrative Reports Masood Malik reported on a discussion on item from the previous meeting. Research shows there are only two bird sanctuary's in Southeast Texas: Armand Bayou and North Deer Island. La Porte is not a bird sanctuary. 6. Commission Comments on matters appearing on agenda or inquiry of staff regarding specific factual information of existing policy. Planning and Zoning Commission Minutes of May 24, 2012 Page 2 of 2 7. Adjourn Motion to adjourn by Richard Warren. Second by Helen LaCour. The motion carried. The meeting adjourned at 9:11 p.m. Ayes: Hal Lawler, Danny Earp, Doretta Finch, Les Bird, Helen LaCour, Richard Warren, Mark Follis, and Phillip Hoot. Nays: None Abstain: None Submitted by, Shannon Green Planning Assistant Approved on this day of , 2012. Hal Lawler Chairman Planning and Zoning Commission Frs expressed in Chapter 1, Plan Context, La Porte will continue to be affected and shaped by significant internal and external influences, changing conditions, and changing priorities. This chapter and subsequent chapters are intended to emphasize how the City can proactively respond to the influences and conditions through policy and recommended programs, ordinances, and investment to ensure the community in 20 years embodies the future the citizens envision — a quality, sustainable, and highly livable community. This chapter also introduces the concept of e =phaoizcs the idea "community character," which considers more than the use of land, including the elements of site and building design, the influence of adjacent sites, and use and integration of open space, and the impacts and relationships between sites and the built and natural environments. It emphasizes that the City could consider the transition of community_character at some appropriate time in the future . �# r !-ln..nrn na �a�..n�a �-.� #4aank. nna�nn�-a �n1�r .. r��.#-�zr.+naa n the naawu.�#.2r._ y u a, c�u ver�ix:�..ccrru���ti>�ccv�ccei�..es�...er�ic:��cv-rrer-re�vr.�cez�� 2.1 Introduction 200 The purpose of this chapter is to establish the necessary policy[Ch. 4, Land Use guidance to enable the City to plan effectively for its future infill 7, Parks and development, redevelopment and revitalization, and charactereation enhancement while respecting the existing land use pattern. 9, Residential Sound planning is essential to ensure the community iselopment prepared for anticipated (and needed) infill development, can10, Beautification serve it adequately with public services, and can manage its12, Redevelopment impacts to maintain compatibility of land uses and preserve 20121 Update Ch. 2, Land Use and Co m-r-,u.n.yty.. Chfaractcf-Development and enhance community character. Along with the background, goals, and strategies in this chapter, the Future Land Use Plan visually depicts the City's policies, particularly its priorities for well -planned infill development, protection of neighborhood integrity, and enhancement of La Porte's appearance. To ensure the outcomes expressed by this plan, it is important to follow the guiding principles, visions, policies, and action recommendations set forth; all of which will aid the Planning and Zoning Commission and City Council in their decision -making. 2.2 Focus Areas, Goals, Actions & Initiatives Throughout the planning process, a number of issues and concerns were expressed relating to land use compatibility, infill on the few remaining developable tracts, redevelopment of vacant buildings or underutilized properties, Downtown and Sylvan Beach, neighborhood protection and revitalization, and corridor design and appearance. These discussions formed the basis of the following focus areas, along with an analysis of existing conditions and review of current programs, plans, and ordinances. Each focus area contains contextual information, key planning considerations, goals, (and their rationales), and advisable implementation actions and initiatives. The areas of focus are as follows: • Focus Area 1— Transitioning to a Built -Out Community; • Focus Area 2 — Quality Neighborhoods and Housing; • Focus Area 3 — Enhanced Community Character; and • Focus Area 4 — Adequate Parks, Recreation, and Open Space. Focus Area 1- Transitioning to a Built -Out Community Over the 20-year planning horizon of this plan, much of the remaining developable land in La Porte will be built out. As this occurs, the City's focus will shift from new development on the City's western periphery to smaller - scale infill development, as well as redevelopment and revitalization of the City's existing older sites and structures. As identified during the public participation process (including feedback from the City Council and Planning and Zoning Commission), there are already areas that are in need of redve!opment or revitalization. These areas are displayed in the Map 2.1, n T^r^,atRevitalizationAreas, and include such areas as the vacant car dealerships along State Highway..146 South Frontage Roads. 10th Street and certain residential areas like those located in the area around Downtown and the Spenwick Subdivision, among others. To reverse the disinvestment in these areas, it will require the City to establish and administer a pro -active and ongoing program for ... ... umd revitalization. Generally, "edropr"ti" ti "ram ationrevlta Izatlon programs can comprise "one or more public actions that are undertaken to stimulate activity when the private market is not providing sufficient capital and economic activity to achieve the desired level of improvement. This public action usually involves one or more measures such as direct public investment, capital improvements, enhanced public services, technical assistance, promotion, tax benefits, and other stimuli including planning initiatives such us rezo^i^g.i1 So, what is the difference between redevelopment and rehabilitation? Typically, redevelopment is transformative in nature and may be undertaken by the private sector without any active public involvement beyond the government's traditional regulatory role. For example, a developer could make application to demolish and redevelop the vacant car dealership properties along State Highway 146 South Frontage RoadS. 10'a, Street to develop a mixed -use to;gkk^r"^ 4 "'development...or business park. In certain instances '� Y4_:1 sYvv.rrrresys'u .. however, public sector incentives, (e.g., decreased regulatory barriers, streamlined permitting, reduced fees, etc.), may also be warranted to facilitate the likelihood of private sector reinvestment. 'YDYe Yib f,1 '__.,Revi.tal i.zati.on, in contrast, is more related to an infusion of public funds intended to facilitate the return of a building and/or property to a useful state by repair, alteration, and modification with the purpose of preventing further blight from occurring. Generally, it can be accomplished through acquisition of real property; demolition; A - or removal of certain buildings and improvements; installation, construction, or reconstruction of streets, utilities, and other public improvements; and rehabilitation of certain suitably located but m structurally substandard buildings. On the commercial side, it may include establishing programs to rehabilitate aging and underutilized ® - retail facilities by providing financial incentives to existing retail shopping centers for enhancements. The program .^ o—wie' could be retention -focused with a primary goal of rehabilitating retail facilities, i.e., improving their aesthetic, architectural, and functional appeal. The intent of this type of program is to attract new retail business that would generate additional sales tax revenue and enhance the vitality of the area. On the residential side, a revitalization-eha'bilit.,** program could include providing grants and/or low -interest, deferred, and/or forgivable loans for building code violations, health and safety issues, essential repairs and upgrades of major component systems (e.g., electrical, plumbing, roofing, heating), and other general improvements (e.g., exterior finishes). It could also include public investment in an overall neighborhood by improving streets, sidewalks and crosswalks, pedestrian lighting, parks, 1 American Planning Association (APA) Policy Guide on Public Redevelopment. http://www.planning.org/policy/guides/adopted/redevelopment.htm. April 25, 2004. drainage, etc. The intent of this type of program is to ensure residents are living in decent, safe and sanitary homes; and that both individual homes and the neighborhood, collectively, are able to maintain or increase the area's property values. Infill development will also play a primary role during the 20-year planning horizon since the City is bound by industrial districts and the limits of other municipalities. Therefore, new development and redevelopment will likely occur in the few remaining vacant or under-utilized parcels adjacent to or within already developed areas. While these remaining areas could be developed using the same policies and regulations that shaped the last 20 years of City growth; it is an opportune time to re- examine how the City facilitates and regulates development, particularly because of an articulated interest to increase residential rooftops and commercial retail opportunities. A successful infill development program must go beyond the piecemeal development of individual parcels; to focus on how the remaining areas may be assembled and developed into the existing community fabric, i.e., creating a healthy mix of uses (that add both vitality and convenience for residents) that are designed and built in a way to improve compatibility while offering additional choices in living and new business opportunities. Benefits of mixed -use infill development include a more compact form of development, which is less consumptive on land and resources and offers increased convenience and mobility for those who cannot or prefer not to drive (e.g., the elderly, youth, or low income residents who lack a car). Infill development also has a positive impact on the City's budget as vacant properties are added to the tax rolls, less infrastructure is required, and existing facility operation and maintenance costs are able to be spread across more residents and commercial businesses (which is a benefit for individual taxpayers, too). In addition, as discussed later in this chapter, infill development provides the City an opportunity to increase the supply of housing types available within the City. This remaining housing supply will have to be developed in a way that meets both the needs and purchasing power of the City's existing and future residents! As discussed later in this chapter and throughout this comprehensive plan, two ways to facilitate successful infill development are to adhere to the principles of Smart Growth and to consider adopt a character - based approach to zoning and land development. Key Planning Considerations Key planning considerations for transitioning to a built -out community in the coming years include: 1) Careful planning for the build -out of remaining developable areas following Smart Growth principles. (see inset) 2) Responding to the expressed desires for 'centers' and focal points, whether in the form of Main Street improvements or through development of mixed -use nodes and neighborhood centers. 3) Taking steps to make redevelopment/revitalization efforts attractive in older areas of the community, including incentives and potential relief from regulatory provisions geared toward new development. 4) Emphasizing neighborhood integrity and protection as both residential structures and streets and other local infrastructure continue to age. 5) Stepping up efforts to revive and/or promote re -use of vacant and obsolete retail properties. 6) Ensuring adequate standards and oversight of infill development on scattered parcels. 7) Building upon strategic public investments, such as the recent development of Five Points Town Plaza, revitalization of the Sylvan Beach, and the community —wide hike and bike trail system. 8) Working to reduce the leakage of retail spending just outside the community by encouraging and providing incentives for more sit-down restaurants and other retail -oriented opportunities that residents wish to patronize locally. Based on these planning considerations, the following goals, actions, and initiatives are intended to address the specific issues and needs identified during the public participation process (and outlined in Chapter 1, Plan Context). z Municipal Research and Services Center of Washington. Report No. 38 — Infill Development Strategies for Shaping Livable Neighborhoods. June 1997. http://www.mrsc.org/Publications/textfill.aspx. Retrieved on August 31, 2011. GOAL 1: Provide additional attention and resources to promote new infill development and redevelopment/revitalization of established areas. Red evelopment/reh.,bili oti^^ revitalization efforts require cooperative action to encourage new and sustained private investment and to provide supporting rehabilitation of public infrastructure. A key part of the process is determining the strategic actions and initiatives the community should take to achieve its redevelopment goals and objectives. Successful redevelopment will often require cooperation and coordination between agencies at different levels of government, as well as non-profit community organizations. This should include coordination of physical improvements with social service programs that aim to enhance the health and economic capacity of residents in targeted neighborhoods. There are several sizeable undeveloped and underdeveloped parcels within the City that provide opportunities for infill development where streets and utilities already exist or may be readily extended. There are also many individual lots that may be developed. In addition, there are several areas that warrant consideration of redevelopment or revitalization during the 20-year horizon of this plan. Action and Initiatives 1) Conduct individual redevelopment or rehab.l:*ation revitalization plans for those areas identified on Map 2.1'de'"�Y!{'rnr T^r^'-tRev►tahzat►on Areas. These plans should be created in partnership rrary��.. p p p with the City, land and business owners, adjacent property owners, and other stakeholders to determine the most appropriate courses of action to improve these areas. .1.....SnI.Ar.�.#...in#nr�ar#...nrr nncx...#knca..l.nnrl...n.n.rl./rN JF A.es.innr...nAnAnnr.�r...#n,...nnx.#.mcw....in n i+ k1ichinn ->... rn 4n... 1l nn+ n l+hnri#v.. fnr #hn....n! lrn of dn..nlnninn ax�„Y.Y�y.....rY.,Y redevelop .rxa.e.ra.#....nr....r�k�.n.ka.il.i#.n.#.ican....p! V 1..x..a.....n.rafl....#.ka.� ryn aan�....cad...fi.n-..VMr n.Yz....n.n.r.l. 3_1........1& 17, flj .fk ...._in#nnr,n.! f!_A#A_!rn rkY_n Yrhn ... of ...#l�ca _iroclnAAnlnrarrYcan# ....arcaax�... Su bsequen fly,"o''s+i-hsri,b'Y"+b'Yo n. no....ter.. in#nncl 4 nl nw 1-nm i- n! l+cm­... ...-.,- 4)2.),Determine the appropriate zoning of infill development tracts and initiate rezoning as appropriate. Zoning actions should be in accordance with the Future Land Use Plan, and care must be taken to ensure that the neighborhood character is preserved and compatibility with existing uses is observed. 53.),Review and amend the City's development ordinances to identify and resolve regulatory impediments to infill development, redevelopment, and revitalization. Incorporate standards that are unique and applicable to these sites. GOAL 2: Continue investment in the Main Street, Sylvan Beach, and the original town area around Downtown. As identified throughout the public process, through previous planning efforts, e.g., the City of La Porte's Economic Development Strategic Plan, and as expressed by the City's Main Street Program, the Greater Downtown area of La Porte has and will continue to play a significant role in the City's long-term future. Enhancing this and the surrounding areas will encourage economic growth and improve the quality of life for City residents. Action and Initiatives 1) Prepare a master plan for the Greater Downtown area. The purpose of the plan is to establish a clear and collectively Is supported vision and then an implementation framework to guide reinvestment and new investment in the Greater Downtown area of La Porte, including the areas of Main Street and Sylvan Beach. This plan should build off the City's revitalization initiatives in Downtown (e.g., Five Points Town Plaza, the San Jacinto off-street trail/sidewalk, and the City/County improvements at Sylvan Beach), identifying opportunities to bolster Downtown as an attractive and lightly functional center of activity based on its unique assets. The plan should identify the appropriate land uses and the arrangement and form of development/redevelopment, along with well -planned and designed improvements to streets and parking areas, vehicular and pedestrian access and circulation, streetscape the amenities, signage, lighting, and infrastructure upgrades. In addition, this master plan should: a) Assess the constraints to redevelopment and the effective use of Downtown properties and buildings. Such factors as land and buildings ownership, traffic and pedestrian circulation, parking, building sizes, building code issues (such as ADA accessibility), lease rates, and other contributing factors should be addressed in the plan. b) Address the fringe and/or transitional areas immediately adjacent to identify measures to secure their integrity. c) Include details on the use of design elements and unifying treatments (could include wayfinding signage), in addition to the gateway monuments, to demarcate the boundaries of this area so that it is distinguished from other areas of the community. 2) Consider revisingRev so regulatory provisions in the Main Street District to ensure new development creates an urban chaaracterform. This could include: a) Modifying the Main Street purpose statement to include an intent of creating a human -scaled urban character envir, - mrnen*form comprised of mixed uses. b) Specifying front yard setback provisions as build -to lines, rather than an "average of the existing structures on that side of the street on the same side of the street or the setback of the closest structure on an adjacent lot." The existing provisions will not ensure an urban character fo.rm.over the long-term. c)Specifying minimum height requirements as an urban form requires a visual sense of enclosure. The current provisions only specify that a maximum height is to be determined. d)Adding some level of building standards relating to scale and massing, materials, exterior treatments, site lighting, and signs and awnings. 3) Continue to monitor investor interest in Downtown residential projects, including attached single-family, multi -family, and residential -over -retail opportunities. Work with private interests to pinpoint and remove or reduce barriers to new development and redevelopment in and around Downtown. Additional ownership housing options are needed, but such housing alternatives need to be planned and permitted by -right. 4) Continue to work with the Economic Development Corporation (EDC) to offer Main Street Enhancement Grants to provide matching funds to enhance existing buildings in the Main Street District, including fagade rehabilitation or enhancement; new awnings, canopies, porches, and signage; and other beautification projects. 5) Continue partnering with the county and other stakeholders in the redevelopment of the Sylvan Beach area (e.g., the rehabilitation of the Sylvan Beach Pavilion and other such improvements) so that the park grows as a local attraction (and local amenity) similar in quality to the one envisioned in the 2004 Sylvan Beach Park Master Plan. 6) Continue to pursue an array of waterfront public/private development projects (e.g., restaurants and other retail opportunities, conference facilities, among others) to compliment the beach park and fishing activities and to generate additional revenues. Focus Area 2 - Quality Neighborhoods and Housing La Porte's long-term future is inextricably tied to its housing availability and conditions. Housing is central to almost any discussion about City affairs, no matter whether the discussion is on economic development, desire for additional local commercial retail opportunities, or the ability to walk from one neighborhood to another. While one challenge is to sustain the integrity of existing housing, another is to address future housing needs. Having a diverse stock of housing — new and old, big and small — is instrumental in offering choice and providing for the individual needs of all households, regardless of economic stature. Besides price and location, another consideration is the design of neighborhoods. The areas that were developed in the late 1960s (with the Spenwick Subdivision) departed from the established town settlement patterns near the core of the City. New housing development and redevelopment needs to reflect a growing demand for neighborhood -style patterns that are once again, integrated into the existing fabric of the community. Key Planning Considerations Key planning considerations for ensuring quality neighborhoods and housing include: 1) Addressing "life cycle" housing needs by offering a wider range of housing types and price ranges so that residents can make lifestyle transitions as they age (e.g., from "starter" housing into a larger dwelling to accommodate a family, then into an "empty nester" situation, and finally into a down -sized space and/or "assisted living" or full-time care facility as health conditions dictate. 2) Encouraging mixed -use, compact, and pedestrian -oriented developments that can serve the "node" function desired by residents and include types of amenities currently absent in La Porte (e.g., walkable residential/commercial mixed 2% 11% use areas). OEM= 3) Emphasizing neighborhood integrity and protection as both housing structures and streets and other local infrastructure continue to age. Al I I,;-- "1­;n ­4 ­;­ ­4-kaA, .,k;'k o m - �o r rr.r�...rrW�r rra:y. r.. e:.r r�r�r-ru;.rrzv ,j_� *YI comas.-i*ihla.d evel-...m.an+... Based on these planning considerations, the following goals, actions, and initiatives address the specific issues and needs identified during the public participation process (and outlined in Chapter1, Plan Context). GOAL 3: Protect the integrity of existing neighborhoods. Neighborhoods are one of La Porte's greatest assets as they form a foundation for a sound quality of life. Strengthening neighborhoods through organization, communication, coordination, and education is a key for maintaining and improving livable neighborhood environments. Established, stable neighborhoods must be preserved and protected from encroaching incompatible development while new neighborhoods should be developed in Built 2005 or later in Built 2000 to 2004 Built 1990 to 1999 Built 1980 to 1989 Built 1970 to 1979 Built 1960 or prior accordance with Smart Growth a^ �nmm n +„ rh ara r+nr nr nr nlnc rin+- H-4 rrurrrr_Y _rruru,.­ I,rrrr.rlrr #hrnArrthnr # +hic ..elan In essence neighborhoods that are safe well- urr..ubrr,.,u1 urr., 1.,rurr. , , maintained, and are of a quality, enduring character, will maintain property values and thus, a sound neighborhood environment and stable residential tax base. The City can greatly enhance the quality of life for its citizens by enacting ordinances and incentives to protect and enhance the integrity of its neighborhoods. Mechanisms to improve the quality of neighborhoods may include ordinances focused on neighborhood conservation; provision of improved or updated public facilities and services such as streets, sidewalks, trails, neighborhood parks, street lighting, drainage systems, pedestrian amenities, traffic control, neighborhood policing and fire protection; enforcement of codes and ordinances; providing support for the creation or the organization of qualified neighborhood organizations by providing technical assistance with private restrictions and/or conducting special neighborhood studies (including redevelopment and/or -eh.ubi.I.tutiol revi.tallzation...plans); providing funds for neighborhood improvements, and, generally investing or reinvesting in the community's neighborhoods. Actions and Initiatives On�.a...cal=...#.ka.�a....mr-as.#...�afl=s�r.#a.ar a...rn.r.�.,ec...#n...rarc.N ate.#....n a.Aax.ka.6 r.kann.cl....A.ra.#�aaxr.Al.ar...a. t.larcaa..ArX.6. 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YY _rrrrr�rr .:.,rr....,r<:. ..rrur�..r....r rcana.Rxaeani.#,.s..i.cl.ca.n.#a.#ar.....a,A...r.ryaa.#.ca...n.ca.iczhka.ca..r.K. rx.rJ.....rra.ns.n.rar.a#inn....rl.rc#rir..#.c..*n.. rr�r'Y urru ..r ,�, nexig r,.,.,rrr.,.,.. con-,...r..,t.c.. to n r ,+oc+ an J n ,+o +ho o is+inrt n 'rthh ,rh , , J fool In nAA;+iran nil—, Yrr ar r:::::vt� ur..r.u.....Y•,y a:rr�r�rar��w:. tiv r,.::....a:�ra,,j�ey r.r.b...r ra::.rb.r..rrr�c:ry �v �r°c:re:r�rr ya..w::v.....ry.r...xve�:r�ryr r.y e.rr.,.y....e:ry vcs�w�u� for reasonable irv,rarna nerxsan+c An..._#hncn.._cauAc+ nrt. nnArthhnrhnnrlc .\ AA#hnA_Ah ti,horc , ti,o ,. co Jr rroc Inclr r Jo h,._rirth+ c+an Jar Jc f ,r —L,;nrt �r r an�o e:ax rr rrsvy��sa.rrri,:.:...v ur�rurraw.:��frr��c:r�,:..uura:..�:x� �rr rw:ruea,:.:..uY..r.r�brre��si�ny�rerrrrus.. ra.rr��rr-r,s�rer,.rb. imnrn,.rn n+c +n h,.,ilrlinrtc...+n nncr..rrn +ha.+ +hn,,...r—in.. in rharar+nr....,ari+h. rr r rF,r Y--r hca..n.ca.irx.ka.kara.r.karara.cl...n.rl.rlca.nn*..arl:.ccarccal,r..irr na.r.#.#kasa.a.ec.ca..a.nrl..nn.in, ....... y rr � �N.,..< <r r......,....,r r.....r r�.,y r � �...r r� nnirthhnrinrt nrnnnr+inc.... 21)Consider an annual registration of neighborhood, home -owner, and tenant associations so that updated contact information can be maintained and used to disseminate important community -wide information (including such things as nearby development applications or rezonings, capital improvement projects, and applicable ordinance changes). ?)2)Consider formalizing a neighborhood -oriented planning program to: a) Assist developers in their preparation of covenants and restrictions for new development. b) Ensure private common areas and amenities are adequately maintained in perpetuity. c) Implement neighborhood watch programs; this may be done in coordination with the La Porte Police Department's Police Area Representative (PAR) program. d) Help older communities develop neighborhood plans, which may include elements that would normally be required for a housing grant submittal and could, thus, be very effective as a grant administration tool. Such a plan would highlight potential development/redevelopment sites, infrastructure improvements, increased buffering (to mitigate such things as noise from increased truck traffic), links to important off -site amenities, etc. e) Establish and facilitate an annual city-wide neighborhood, home- owner, and tenant association meeting to gather input on how to better coordinate efforts and develop partnerships while seeking mutual benefit. 41,3.).Expand and promote increased awareness of the City's program on traffic calming. This could include notifying the neighborhood, homeowner, and tenant associations about the program, increasing available funding, and expanding the types of calming measures available, e.g., speed humps, bulb -outs, raised cross -walks, chicanes, etc. 4) Provide technical planning support for established neighborhoods. Such support could address issues related to open space preservation, street and sidewalk improvements, traffic control, crime prevention through environmental design (CPTED), code enforcement or navigating the available housing programs. 5) Consider modifying existing codes to improve compatibility between ..... commercial areas and abutting residential properties. This could include adding bulk and scale limitations (e.g., residential in scale); better design sign, and lighting controls; improved buffering, among others. GOAL 4: Promote opportunities for neighborhood improvement and housing stock rehabilitation of the housing stock. The community must remain cognizant of its older housing stock as rehabilitation and reinvestment will become increasingly important to the integrity and vitality of neighborhoods, particularly in the older areas around Downtown, as well as in some areas throughout the community. Comments by residents during public participationut the puh!ic workshops indicated concerns about some of these areas being "not well kept." C^A_e nnfnrrnrxanra* if.dnnn nrn-a�*A,rnI,A r-an.. ran-y.._In+ *n..r,rn,rnn*..*hnsn.._-yr air _Frnm. fr rr+hor do+ori.,r�+i.,n rur erra:.r ua:..ea�.-r -ry ru-ry r.r.. Actions and Initiatives 1) Encourage redevelopment in target areas through programs that target lots that are abandoned or have recently demolished structures so that those lots are put back onto the market and tax rolls. 2) Consider forming a target -area community investment program focused on all infrastructure improvements (e.g., sidewalk installation in addition to repair, driveway culvert cleaning and replacement, alley improvements, tree trimming, parking restrictions, shielded street lighting or other improved pedestrian lighting, added greenspace, improved public streetscape/ landscape areas, new signage, etc.) within at -risk neighborhoods. This would be an expansion of the current program that provides dedicated funding for sidewalk repair and maintenance. The purpose of this program is to provide a dedicated source of annual funding for use in making infrastructure improvements and leveraging private reinvestment through rehabilitation, building additions, and/or infill development. 3) Consider the use of tax abatement, reduced building permit or utility tap fees, and other financial programs or incentives to elicit private sector reinvestment. 4) o r�on•,o �.,n�o yyy...+r,e:.r.y..r,e:.r.y.y:....y�,.y.....y:.�.y..�.`..ry.r.y.�....�.....�.�.r..exrry..r....�y.r..`.yy.....r.e3.r.....yy.... a:crrrvc_:rrtirrc:rere.srr of ,u al_n innC_r, rah ac.. ,arnnrLr dnhris and.. irrnl ... �rnhirinc• k,n n!n,rnr.. ..� . i.. ratio s uc � as .........a,,, .a.....,ris, M .u... Jug ��. ��..� ��<.�<.:-:,� 11...... . �I+ornan+i,.o n o 0 ha`"r svrw.: urta.:r r rrxr_rvr.:. v.rue_. .:.rervrv..:.-rr re..r rr: r-rrwtr ryas yry e.rrr r::r rua..uuvyv ery 4an rv,nrn nrn-ar* ,An -anal nncr rrn -N- An nr r*rnrYynl..-Consider the use riu�,�......ya.....,rr,...:�. of an advocacy program to aid in code compliance (e.g., violations such as weeds, debris, and junk vehicles) rather than citing noncompliant property owners. A key element may be the cross - training of enforcement advocacy officers in conflict management/resolution or the creation of useful information packets listing sources of help for homeowners who are in violation of City codes. p G).............. q*r;r,*l.y inn fnrrn`..rn`rn,Qu# nff�nnu#n`#4�that ..ch. ro-0r F-0—lut or confidence.. 6)5).......... Promote neighborhood pride by stimulating resident involvement in improvement activities, including: a) Seasonal "clean up, fix up" events; b) "Neighborhood Pride" days focusing on beautification; and c) Annual "amnesty pickup" days of large refuse items with the assistance of City crews and volunteers. 7)6)Seek the participation of churches, civic organizations, schools, and businesses in neighborhood improvement and revitalization efforts. R7)Continue the program of identifying and demolishing substandard structures; coordinate demolition with a proactive and effective program to provide incentives for home building on empty lots. This may include marketing these properties on the City's website, streamlining the permit approval process, and reduced permitting fees. 98)Strengthen the ability for local organizations, e.g., Sheltering Arms Senior Services, Inc., to support weatherization and energy efficiency improvements in existing neighborhoods. The Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) is sponsored by the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs and helps low-income persons, particularly the elderly and persons with special needs, control their home energy costs. Local organizations need additional support so that more weatherization improvement options are made available. The City may also actively support these local organizations by partnering with them on grant applications or hosting weatherization open houses or organizing energy -efficiency audits. 1)9) Continue to apply for Community Development Block Grant (CBDG) funds, HOME Grant funds, or other grant or loan programs to create or rehabilitate affordable housing for low-income households. xx)10).... Continue to coordinate with and help to promote housing assistance programs of the Southeast Texas Housing Finance Corporation and the Harris County Community Development Agency. GOAL 5: Ensure affordable and sufficient housing options in the future. The availability and affordability of different housing options leads to a higher quality of life. In general, as more types and affordable housing options are supplied, a greater number of residents will be able to live and work in La Porte. Therefore, anticipating and meeting future housing demand is essential for the City's economic development success, and planning will enable the community to respond effectively to the needs of a variety of market segments, from young singles and newly married couples to large families, empty nesters, seniors, and retirees looking to downsize. The City currently has a narrow range of owner -occupied neighborhoods and housing types, with the current mix being predominantly single-family detached residential dwellings. Indeed, as displayed in the Demographic Snapshot in Chapter 1, La Porte has the highest percentage of one -unit structures (84 percent), which is higher than all the comparison cities, the county, and the state. This leaves little room for choice among housing types. In the future, aging residents may desire to have more housing options available, including maintenance free condominiums and additional assisted living and continuing care facilities. In addition, units marketable to households that are "downsizing" should be permitted and encouraged in appropriate locations. Examples of these varied units are depicted in the inset, which may include duplexes, patio homes, townhomes, and multiplexes. This does not mean that there is not a market for single-family homes; rather, it means that future development should incorporate more housing diversity so that existing and future residents will have sufficient options, from large lot single- family dwellings (e.g., in the Lomax area), to residential above retail lofts, live/work units, and attached living. Lack of affordability is a concern. When there is a lack of affordable housing options available, it increases individual and/or family distress and is considered to have negative effects on a community's overall health. The City recognizes the need to ensure that all of La Porte's residents enjoy access to quality and affordable housing within livable and attractive environments. Maintaining livability as the City transitions to an infill and redevelopment focus will require creativity and a willingness to coordinate efforts. The qualities that make La Porte an attractive place to live are also making La Porte an expensive place to live. Increasing housing prices creates obstacles for low-income households and threatens to push residents to unsatisfactory housing options. The inability to find housing locally poses a hardship for households seeking an affordable home, as well as employers seeking employees. Actions and Initiatives 1) Encourage life -cycle housing options in new developments that will offer alternatives to existing and future residents. New development and redevelopment should include more than one housing type, with ordinance provisions for increased open space as separation and buffering and other standards to ensure compatibility. A combination of housing options and lot sizes will result in a diversity of housing choices — choices that will be useful in attracting and keeping singles, younger families, and older residents. 2) Consider incorporating accessory dwelling units in the zoning ordinance, along with appropriate provisions governing their use and compatibility. They are common and increasing in popularity in many communities to accommodate elderly parents or relatives (i.e., "granny flats"), young adult family members wanting to live independently but close by, or students in need of basic, low-cost housing. 3) Consider adopting design standards for high -density residential development, which may include provisions for building form and scale, articulated building walls, building orientation, architectural detailing, roof types and materials, fagade enhancements, and acceptable building materials, as well as site design standards regarding landscape surface, parking location and arrangement, bufferyards, and site amenities. 4) Consider eEstablishing an average, rather than minimum, lot size in the residential districts whereby lot sizes are required to vary in width, with a certain percentage being narrower and the remaining being wider than the average. For example, the average lot size may allow a variability of 10 percent (see inset o^ 5) In appropriate locations where increased open space is desired or needed to preserve resource features (e.g., wetlands, tree stands, drainage channels) or to protect compatibility between adjacent developments, consider WBUZ &R I ii, allowing flexible site design and low impact development options that permit alternative treatment of utilities and infrastructure. There can be significant cost savings to development from flexible site design and cluster development techniques, which translate into reduced lot and house prices (e.g., reduced linear feet of street, pipe, sidewalk; fewer street lights, fire hydrants; reduced stormwater management needs; etc.). T 6) Maintain an Large....... Lot..... Estate residential district .(i...e........the ... Lomax Area) so that those seeking larger -lot living arrangements with a more open feel, be accommodated within City limits. 7) Considering pProvidinge a density bonus to offset smaller units or attached housing in order to avoid significantly affecting the feasibility of the residential development. Density bonuses are a type of housing production program where projects are granted additional residential density over and above the maximum limit allowed by existing zoning, with the condition that the additional housing is restricted to occupancy by a certain target group and that the units remain affordable over time. 8) Continue sponsoring the Bay Area Habitat for Humanity program as one method of increasing housing affordability within the City. Focus Area 3 - Enhanced Community Character The appearance of La Porte is the single most evident glimpse of its economic vitality, government proactiveness, and civic pride. The initial impression is C. raphic.to be..remove.d. formed by the quality of development, property upkeep, condition of public facilities, amount and quality of public spaces, and the design of roadways and other public buildings and infrastructure. Visual appeal reinforces the quality of life for those who reside in La Porte, as well as those making investment decisions. The City has a window of opportunity to enact policies and standards that influence the quality of its natural and built environments. Without a plan and development standards to accentuate the design of corridors, districts (like Downtown), neighborhoods, and open spaces, there may be a sense of "sameness" in the community with little to distinguish it from the surrounding cities. The City's character and appearance (i.e., the City's image) was among the concerns expressed throughout the public process. Indeed, the character of new development and redevelopment will contribute to the community's image and may affect the City's ability to attract and maintain new investment. Finally, aesthetic enhancements such as the design of buildings, landscaping and screening, sign control, and site amenities also contribute to enhanced community character. Key Planning Considerations Key planning considerations for enhancing community character include: 1) Pursuing opportunities to create unique, signature areas in the community (particular destinations, corridors, public facilities, parks and open space areas). 2) Enhancing first impression and "front door" appearance by focusing on the aesthetic treatments at community entries. 3) Coordinating gateway improvements so that a consistent, high -quality appearance exists at all entry points to the City. 4) Enhancing wayfinding, not only to help residents and visitors navigate the community and find its key destinations, but also as a unifying design element across the City. 5) Improving the appearance of the City's primary corridors so that an enhanced image of the City is created. Based on these planning considerations, the following goals, actions, and initiatives address specific issues and needs identified during the public participation process (and outlined in Chapter1, Plan Context). GOAL 6: Enhance the overall appearance of the built environment in the City. To be fully effective in achieving the community's vision for the future, proactive efforts shouldmust be undertaken to improve the appearance of the built environment within the City. Unfortunately, the needs often outweigh the financial or administrative resources available to achieve the desired outcomes. Therefore, it is recognized that there are areas of La Porte that are more visible and, thus, may serve as a "starting point" to initiate these enhancement efforts. There are a large variety of components that contribute to the visual appearance and "feel" of a community. Some components are more apparent than others, although they all contribute to the overall character of the community. Since the last plan update, the City has been proactive in improving the appearance of the City, including the installation of gateway signage, and investments in public amenities such as the revitalized Five Points Town Plaza and the emerging Ccity-wide trail system. However, according to the sentiments expressed during the public participation process, the citizens feel that continued improvement is a priority. Actions and Initiatives 1) Expand the efforts started with Ordinance 1501-II (which was intended, partly, as a means to mitigate the visual impacts of container yards) to require existing non -conformities' in designated enhancement corridors to be brought into compliance over a reasonable period of time. Similar provisions have been adopted elsewhere in Texas where nonconforming site conditions (e.g., parking lot landscaping and screening outdoor storage and display, fencing, buffering, signage, etc.) must be registered with the City and steadily brought into compliance over a period of years. 2) Outside of City limits, partner with the entities in which the City has interlocal agreements to determine strategies to increase the level of screening of container yards that exist along the City's entry corridors and periphery. 3) Consider the development of corridor enhancement plans for the primary and secondary enhancement corridors depicted in Map 2.2, Beautification Plan. (Additional guidance can be found in Chapter 4, Community Mobility. 4) Enhance the appearance of properties adjacent to street corridors by evaluating and improving codes and standards for better building placement (build -to, maximum vs. minimum setbacks), design (building shape, wall articulation, entry identification, transparency, 3100 360 degree architecture), and materials; improved parking lot, streetscape and foundation landscaping; higher quality screening of outdoor storage; management of outdoor display; improved lighting and sign controls; and improved buffering of adjacent properties. 5) Expand on previous efforts to consider embellished gateway treatments with more significant "signature" monuments, landscaping, and lighting at the locations of greatest visibility. Ensure high quality maintenance of these areas, as depicted on Map 2.2, Beautification Plan. 1) Consider......m%lodifying existing codes to adopt appropriate design standards in conformance with the San Jacinto Corridor Design Standards. 2) Continue to work with the Economic Alliance Houston Port Region and consider code modifications and other program support to implement the San Jacinto Historic District design standards, including the Project Stars Initiative, which uses industrial infrastructure and landscaping to highlight and celebrate the area's history and historical significance.3 3) Consider implementing a program to publicly recognize residential and business property owners for their role toward enhancing the visual appearance of the City. This could include monthly recognition on the City's website or other public communication media. A Partner with the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) to enhance the visual appearance of the City's existing and future overpasses, as depicted on Map 2.2, Beautification Plan.(see inset next page) .. ......... ......... ......... 5)4) Continue seeking public/public and/or public/private partnerships to master plan and implement site specific enhancements throughout the City. By way of example, continue working with the La Porte Independent School District (ISD) and adjacent retail center owners to implement the enhancements depicted in the Texas Avenue Beautification Project Master Plan, among others. 6)5) .Partner with TxDOT to enhance the visual appearance of the Miller Cut Off Road, Sens Road, and SR 146 interchange areas. These enhancements could be similar in type and quality to the improvements already completed at the State Highway 225/Independence Parkway interchange located just outside City limits, as depicted on Map 2.2, Beautification Plan. 3 Economic Alliance Houston Port Region. San Jacinto Texas, Historic District Corridor Standards at http://www.ci.la- porte.tx.us/civica/filebank/blobdload.asp?BloblD=8725. May 2010. 7 6)Create a comprehensive wayfinding program to project a consistent image for the entire City and to provide directional guidance to the area's greatest assets, i.e., Main Street and Sylvan Beach. Partner with TxDOT to develop and obtain approval for a Wayfinding Sign Guide System Plan. 8.)7).Evaluate program criteria and make necessary improvements to achieve certification through the Scenic City Certification Program. Sponsored by Scenic Texas, this certification recognizes Texas municipalities that implement high -quality scenic standards for public roadways and public spaces, with the long-term goal of improving the image of all cities. 9-)8)Evaluate program criteria and make necessary improvements to gain recognition in the Tree City USA Program. Sponsored by the Arbor Day Foundation, this program helps communities become better stewards of their tree resources. Focus Area 4 - Adequate Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Parks and recreation facilities are an essential part of a healthy, quality, and vibrant community environment. They provide the necessary components for events outside the home and after work and after school activities. Whether for passive or active use, parks and recreation facilities are an important factor of everyday living, active living — serving health benefits for children, seniors, and people of all ages. The park system also enhances the community's "quality of life" factor, boosting economic development efforts to recruit and retain a skilled workforce; build a strong tax base to finance system expansion, facility enhancements, and maintenance; and attract retirees. It is clear that La Porte places high value on its park and recreation system. Subsequent to the last comprehensive planning process, in 1998, the City prepared and adopted a separate Parks and Open Space Master Plan (2002; amended 2008) and Bicycle and Pedestrian Trail Implementation Plan (2003); both of which the City has been actively implementing in the over the past several years. This section of the Comprehensive Plan is not intended to supplant those separate specific master plans; rather it is intended to review those plans in terms of how they currently fit within the overall framework of a 20-year planning horizon —meaning, will the full implementation of those plans achieve the goals of creating a park, recreation, and open space system that is high quality (safe and well maintained), convenient and accessible (to its users), diversified (in its activities), and interconnected (to the community), while trying to preserve and protect La Porte's natural assets. Note that while trails are an integral part of a park and recreation system, they are an equally important part of the City's non -vehicular mobility system, and as such, will be discussed in Chapter 4, Community Mobility. 14"' Street Park I 2.40 The City Parks and Recreation Department is responsible for the Bay Oaks Park 1.20 0 operation and maintenance of all parks and recreational Brookglen Park 2.0 facilities. Their ultimate goal is to "to provide and manage Central Park 4.60 superior parks and recreational facilities, innovative programs, Creekmont Park 3.50 and services that will provide our customers with pleasure and enrichment." Glen Meadows 8.13 Ohio Street 0.93 Existing Park Inventory Pete Gilliam 1.20 The foundation for establishing an adequate park and recreation Pfeiffer 1.20 system is the availability and condition of the existing parks and Pine Bluff 0.11 recreation areas. To assess the projected future need for additional land, facilities, and improvements, it is essential to Seabreeze 3.13 first determine the level of service provided by the existing parks Spencer Landing.99 and recreation system. Subsequently, the level of sufficiency or Spenwick 0.50 deficiency of the existing system can be determined to assess Tom Brown 0.57 the current need prior to projecting the future parks and Woodfalls 8.30 recreation system needs. Neighborhood Park Subtotal 3':�'41.76 Currently, the Department is responsible for 210 neighborhood and community parks (comprising over......150......acresaY.,..;..ro;t......200 .......................................... cr_-�) two special use parks (i.e. Five Points Town Plaza and the Parks Acres Bayforest Golf Course), and eleven miles of trails (see Table 2.1, Fairmont Park 17.70 Existing Parks and Map 2.3, Park Inventory). Overall, the City has a total of 22 23 parks and recreation facilities comprised of Little Cedar Bayou 34.70 playgrounds and playscapes; picnic amenities; baseball, softball, Lomax 10.0o soccer, football fields; basketball and other sports courts; Northside Park 2.70 bicycle/pedestrian/exercise/nature trails; a senior center; a Northwest 25.0 Special Populations Center; two bayside parks; two fishing piers; Pecan Park 33.00 a rodeo/open riding arena; three neighborhood pools and one Community Park > sprayground/playground; and other amenities. Over the past 21 Subtotal' 123.10 years, the City has spent close to $18 million on its parks and Total 1 �^• S 164.86 recreation system. In addition to the parks and recreation areas owned and managed by the City, there are five school playgrounds located at the elementary schools that provide additional recreation and open space that is available to residents and visitors of the La Porte area. The school playgrounds are displayed in Table 2.2, School Playgrounds, and tThe City and the La Porte Independent School District (LPISD) have a cooperative agreement that allows joint use of City and School recreations facilities. As displayed in Table 2.27% Private Parks, there are also five park facilities and one neighborhood pool that are owned and maintained by the homeowners' associations. Parks and Recreation Standards Standards provide a measure for determining the amount of parks, recreation and open space needed to meet the current and projected future demands of the City's citizens and visitors. Parks and recreation standards are typically expressed in terms of acres of land dedicated for parks, recreation and open space per unit of population, such as 0.5 acres per 1,000 persons. While general standards are useful, it is important to establish standards that are based upon unique local considerations, such as participation trends and projections, user characteristics, demographics, climate, natural environment, and other considerations. Values related to leisure and recreation are unique to each municipality; therefore, the standards should represent the interests and desires of local parks users. The suggested standards from the National Recreation and Parks Association (NRPA), as modified for La Porte's unique conditions, are illustrated in Table, 234, NRPA Development Standards. (on next page) e� Parks Bayside Terrace Park Acres 0.49 Fairmont Last 2..00 Fairmont West 1.18 Shady Lane 2.59 Shady River 2.35 Lomax Elementary chool Play --rounds:. I.Pprks Acres 2.25 Jennie RO Elementary 0.35 Rizzuto Elementary 1.06 La Porte Elementary 7.06 Bayshore elementary 2.62 Use: Serves a concentrated population within an immediate proximity. Examples are a tot lot in an apartment complex or a vacant lot developed as a passive park. Service Area: Immediate development Desirable Size: 0.25 to 1 acre 0.25 acre Der 1.000 Dersons :: : : : : I Site Characteristics: Close proximity to high -density developments. Use: Serves the broader community. Includes facilities for active and passive recreation and leisure, including athletic fields, swimming pools, picnic areas, walking/jogging paths, open play areas, exercise stations, and restrooms, among other improvements Service Area: Primarily for neighborhood residents within a one -mile radius, but available throughout the City. Desirable Size: Minimum 10 to 30 acres Density: 3.0 acres per 1,000 persons Site Characteristics: Located to Drovide full access to the citv. Use: Serves the broader community or region for specialized, multi -purpose recreation activities (e.g. performance ... center). Service Area: Available to all persons. Desirable Size: No minimum standard. Density: No minimum standard. ::: Site Characteristics: Intended for City-wide or regional use. Needs Assessment To assess the adequacy of the existing parks and recreation supply, it is necessary to look at existing population, the supply of parks provided by existing facilities including planned improvements or expansions, and relate them to planning standards for desirable levels of service. In addition, it is necessary to consider forecasts in future population to determine future needs and to identify deficiencies to address the needs of the system. As such, the park and recreation system would have to be expanded to accommodate a 2030 projected population of 49,927 person s4. Based upon these parameters and displayed in Table 2.45, Parks and Recreation Needs, the City would have to add approximately 12.16 acres of new neighborhood parks and 26.68 'acres of new community parks to meet the needs of the projected future population. 33.80 1 37.77 1 -3.97 1 105% 1 49.93 1 37.77 1 12.16 1 75.6% 101.40 1 123.10 1 -21.7 1 121% 1 149.78 1 123.101 26.68 1 82.1% 135.20 1 160.87 1 -25.67 1 -- 1 399.42 1 '160.87 1 38.84 1 4 Population projections are based off of the Houston -Galveston Area Council (H- GAC) 2035 Forecast Data. See Demographic Snapshot in Chapter 1, Plan Context for more information. Service Areas Evaluating service areas is an effective means of identifying geographic areas that have sufficient park areas available, but more importantly to identify those in need of additional parks and recreation areas and facilities. Neighborhood parks have a service area of one -quarter (%) mile, while community parks have a service area of one mile; which means that the majority of the persons who utilize these facilities live within those respective distances. The service areas for the City's parks are displayed in Map 2.4, Park Service Areas. Since school playgrounds and private parks also provide neighborhood -scale park and recreation benefits to City residents, their service areas have been included in this analysis. lr ile ;choo! parks h.ave. .n t-hear r.,-In-clA.-d-er.4A n.*ha. Inr..Iear..Jnr.4Jf..#hQ.(;.#. t ar.y.y.......�y... rl*�' er arx en!#Arar'.._arr#_.n F'n. #.n._*Fl.n... 1nA lIR.A.Ar`..lIA A*r'.A ll.r# .nf cCL'n!1l1�._llAanr_n#Arn.n %Ln,v rr'.. ... �. .._. u.�.._.-,.�.el AAA-<.. .., F,<....:. Park System Plan The La Porte Park System Plan is designed to meet the requirements of the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) in order to become eligible for grant reimbursement of up to 50 percent (with a maximum of $500,000 per application cycle) for qualified projects. With the City being proactive in adopting separate Parks and Open Space and Trails master plan, these requirements have been met ...as....Ion.g....as....a.n.....u.pdate...i.s....performed....every... five. years. Map 2.5, Park System Plan, is intended to be an intermediary analysis that will facilitate future discussion when those separate master plans are updated. As the City moves forward in expanding park acreage to meet the needs of the future projected population, the Park System Plan delineates the areas of deficiencies within the City and should be one of the primary considerations used to identify where future neighborhood and community parks are located. Key Planning Considerations Key planning considerations for ensuring adequate parks, recreation, and open space include: 1) All people should have equal access to recreational areas, activities, services, and facilities regardless of personal interest, age, gender, income, cultural background, housing environment, or handicap. 2) Public recreation should be highly coordinated among public institutions and private entities to avoid duplication and encourage cooperation. 3) Public recreation should incorporate public services such as education, health and fitness, transportation, and leisure. 4) Facilities should be well -planned and coordinated to ensure adequate adaptability to future needs and requirements. 5) The availability of financial resources should be considered in all phases of planning, acquisition, development, operation, and maintenance of spaces and facilities. 6) Public participation is critical to the eventual success of the parks and recreation system and should, therefore, be included in all stages of the process. 7) There should be established procedures for acquiring land for future parks and recreation areas and facilities prior to development. 8) The design of spaces and facilities should encourage the most efficient utilization of land, accommodate other compatible City services (e.g., libraries, museums, etc.), be constructed in the most sustainable, highest quality possible, and consider the needs and desires of the intended users. Based on these planning considerations, the following goals, actions, and initiatives address the specific issues and needs identified during the public participation process and the above analysis. GOAL Q7: Ensure all existing and future parks and recreational facilities are maintained to an equivalent standard of quality and excellence. One of the topics that were discussed during the public participation process was related to inequalities in the quality and condition of existing parks within the City. New parks (e.g., Pecan Park) and improvements (e.g., the new sprayground/playground at Brookglen Park) created a higher standard than now exists at some other existing parks. Actions and Initiatives 1) Establish a formalized parks -to -standards program to ensure all parks are brought up to, and maintained in, an equivalent quality standard. This program should include a general maintenance and repair schedule. The priority maintenance tasks include: a) Resurfacing, restriping, or re -grading unpaved surfaces or parking areas. b) Improving drainage. c) Increasing park accessibility. d) Increasing the amount of signage and/or repair of existing signage. 2) Conduct regular risk management inspections to identify and schedule repairs, address safety issues, and conduct routine maintenance and cleaning, and other necessary improvements to playground and park equipment that is funded by an adequate operating and maintenance budget. 3) Use the National Program and Playground Safety guidelines and/or the United States Consumer Products Safety Commission standards in the design and replacement of playground equipment, all surface areas, and other recreational facilities and improvements. 4) Enhance landscape plantings and lawn maintenance in all parks. a) Develop a program to improve the turf quality in all parks through turf restoration and over seeding, re -grading (to address erosion and drainage issues), and improved irrigation. b) Continue to partner with Trees for Houston to add shade trees and shrubs in each park to improve aesthetics, create much needed shade, and improve the overall future beauty of the park system. 5) Conduct an annual condition assessment of park conditions. The assessment should be considered during the budget preparation process for the following fiscal year. GOAL 98: Continue to increase the quality and diversity of amenities in the existing and future parks to attract and accommodate people of all ages (and non-traditional park users) for both active and passive activities. Actions and Initiatives 1) Focus on park and recreation improvements as a means for elevating neighborhood viability. Highlight the importance of clean, safe, well -maintained, and vibrant neighborhood parks as an anchor for strong, established neighborhoods where residents and kids use public spaces and interact on evenings and weekends. 2) Establish a policy of master planning new/revitalized parks to develop a unique design theme for each park to broaden the types of facilities and activities that are available across the community and to better tie their identity to adjacent neighborhoods. a) Conduct neighborhood design charrettes to gather resident input to determine unique features, types of amenities, and overall theme. Ideas may include parks for special events, arts and culture, heritage, eco-tourism, sustainability, etc. 3) Prepare revitalization plans for each of the existing, well established parks. Plans should include equipment replacement and repair, building/structure rehabilitation, new features/activities, and other refurbishments. 4) Evaluate opportunities to add new types of amenities that appeal to intergenerational and non-traditional users in existing and future parks, including community gardens, dog parks, climbing walls, bike trails, Frisbee golf, spraygrounds, running/walking trails, checkerboard tables, art walks, sandboxes, among others. 5) Continue to add shade structures to all existing and future parks. Shading should consist of a combination of playscape shade structures, individual picnic shelters, and larger pavilions (which provide more shade and more opportunities for socialization, among other things). 6) Improve on -site and off -site accessibility to each park by developing a sidewalk improvement program to repair, replace, or install new sidewalks, crosswalks, and curb cuts, in high pedestrian use neighborhoods immediately surrounding the parks, schools, and other community facilities. 7) Incorporate on -site handicap accessible walking trails that create a loop around the edge of each park and connect the important amenities within the park, so that users can utilize these trails for walking, running, biking, roller blading, pushing strollers, among other things. 8) Continue to provide adequate funding in the annual capital and operating budgets to enhance, improve, and maintain the existing public parks, recreation, trails, and open space. GOAL 1 ng: Continue to add new park, recreation, and open space areas to adequately accommodate the future needs of La Porte"s residents and visitors. Action and Initiatives 11..... rnnci<Jnr nc+ Ohl chinrx ter+ cavr icra +aY .�""Va'A # �...r+ �r+ras.irl�ar++i zl cac..nr+ .....� ��—e, —n— ...... cnuarafact hu?cic cnr.,n..+r, bell 2)1)Concurrent with population growth, acquire an additional 12.16 acres of neighborhood parkland and an additional 2668 acres of community parkland in the areas of deficiency by the year 2030. Additional acreage could be used to: a) Establishing a recreation fitness center on the west side of the City. b) Constructing a natatorium built and financed through a joint City La Porte and/or Clear Creek ISD partnership (or other interested stakeholders). c) Facilitating greater linear linkages between the existing trail system and all parks, schools, neighborhoods, open spaces, and other important community amenities. 3 2)Continue to provide adequate funding in the annual capital budget to acquire and develop new park, recreation, trail, and open space areas and improvements. GOAL 1?.10: Continue to offer and expand recreational and/or cultural programs that meet the interests and needs of persons of all ages and abilities by providing programs independently and in cooperation with partners. Action and Initiatives 1) Provide opportunities for individuals and groups (including low-income, minority, disabled, elderly, and the youth at risk populations) to participate in cultural, recreational, and educational activities that foster better health and wellness and strengthen both body and mind. 2) Formalize through reciprocal agreements the coordination of programming and joint use of facilities by and between the City and the La Porte Independent School District (LPISD), homeowner associations, among others. 3) Continue to offer and/or enhance the Fun Times Parks and Recreation Magazine. 4) Consider providing on-line registration for any camps, lessons, workshops, or classes available through the City or its program partners. 5) Join with the program partners to make application for outside funding to support and expand the City's educational and recreational programming. Seek special funding for underprivileged residents (particularly children) who may not have access to pools for programs that would address need for swimming lessons in the bay. 6) Continue to expand sponsorships and investigate opportunities to affiliate with other agencies (i.e., public/public or public/private partnerships), special interest groups, service clubs, and the private sector in organizing and operating special events, programs, and leagues. 7) Continue to work with youth sport associations to further develop facilities for recreational activities including baseball, softball, basketball, soccer, football, rugby, swimming, among others. 8) Continue to work with public and private sector groups (i.e., civic associations, etc.) to promote the annual community activities such as sports tournaments, festivals, outdoor concerts, fairs, and other special events. 9) Conduct an annual meeting with the City's program partners and other community organizations to discuss opportunities for the improved coordination and provision of services. Future Land Use a„d CharaCte The essence of comprehensive planning is a recognition that La Porte does not have to wait to react to development proposals. Rather, it can determine where development and redevelopment will occur and what e"acter type of land use the the new built environment will reflect. Through active community support, this plan will ensure that development meets certain standards and, thus, contributes to achieving the desired community charactervision. As a guide for land development and public improvements, Map'32..6, Future Land Use Plan, represents how and where the City will focus new development and redevelopment over the next two decades — and beyond. The Future Land Use Plan is an integral part of this Comprehensive Plan and represents the most desirable land use based upon the goals and objectives stated in the Comprehensive Plan in consideration of existing uses and development and physical characteristics of the community. The land use designations form the basis for zoning, and thereby, the location of housing, commercial, and industrial areas. The Future Land Use Plan and Thoroughfare Plan (in Chapter 4, Mobility) are the two most important planning tools available to the City. In the determination of whether a specific zoning classification conforms to the land use designation on the map, flexibility should be used to interpret land use designations boundaries which are applied on a broad scale. Street rights -a -way, lot lines, topography, and other features should be utilized in the location of appropriate zoning district boundary lines. Generally, zoning district boundaries should follow rear lot lines or alleys to preserve the cohesiveness of the streetscape and compatibility of adjacent uses. Zoning, when applied, breaks these areas into more specific classifications with legally binding land use regulations that according to state law must be "in accordance with the Comprehensive Plan.5i The following discusses the land use designations found in the Future Land Use Plan. The..Future. Land...Use Plan for..the City of La...Porte...Is a general...physical...plan for future development based on land use. It shows the generalized pattern .. of planned future land use, taking into account the City, .. .. . objectives identified throughout the Comprehensive Plan. The purpose of the land use plan is to minimize conflicts between adjacent uses, maximize efficiency..of the..transportation network, achieve. fiscally sound decisions pertaining to private development and public infrastructure investments, and generally to aspire to create a livable environment for the citizens of the community. 5 Texas Local Government Code, Sec. 211.004, Conformance with the Comprehensive Plan. The future land use classifications used on the plan to depict the type and ......................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... density of development are as follows: Large Lot Residential The Large Lot Residential classification was added during the 2012 plan update and is intended to further protect the existing large.. lot... residential areas in .... Lomax....This...classification..has..a minimum of one -acre lot size and allows permitted uses that are in ...................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... conformance with the Large Lot District (LL) Low -Density Residential The Low -Density Residential classification includes single family residential uses with minimum lot area ranging from 4,500 to 43,560 square feet. Other permitted uses are those in conformance with the Low Density Residential District (R-1). Moderate- to -High -De Residential The Moderate- to High -Density Resi.dential...classification...... ncludes.... single family attached....or detached dwellings, multiple family dwellings, patio homes, garden apartments, condominiums, and _townhouses. _The minimum lot area for _these uses ranges from....21000 t0 20,000 square feet with maximum lot covera e. ranging from 50 to 60 percent. Moderate and High Density Residential uses _generally include those specified in the Mid -Density Residential District (R-2) and High -Density Residential District (R-3). Mixed Use The Mixed Use classification was added during the 2012 plan.u.pdate..and i.s...ntended to ... provide ... deve1.opment... options in ... certaln areas near Sylvan Beach. New or improved zoning and/or development provisions should be_considered to ensure future development fulfills the intent of these... particular.. areas. Neighborhood Commercial The Neighborhood Commercial classification was added during the 2012 plan update and is intended for uses that are in conformance with the Neighborhood Commercial (NC) District. Commercial The Commercial classification includes uses that are in conformance with the uses permitted in the Neighborhood Commercial District (NC),_and General Commercial (GC) District. Main Street The Main Street classification was added during the 2012 ................................................................................................................................. plan update and is intended for those uses allowed in the Main Street (MS) and Main Street Overlay (MSO) Districts. New or improved provisions should be considered, particularly for the Main Street District (MS), to ensure future development reflects an urban character (e.g., build to lines,.. on street parking, a.mong.other considerations.. Commercial Industrial The Commercial Industrial classification provides for the _establishment of industrial development that _is compatible with surrounding or abutting residential districts. Uses are limited to administrative, wholesaling, manufacturing, and related compatible uses as defined by the Business Industrial Park (BI) District. Industrial The Industrial classification provides for the establishment of light and heavy industrial _development. Uses _are in _conformance _with the Light Industrial District (LI) and Heavy Industrial District (HI).. Parks and Open Space - The Parks and Open Space classification was added during the 2012 plan update and is intended for existing public Parks and recreation areas, open spaces, natural habitat areas, and areas within the floodplain. Public and Institutional The Public and Institutional classification includes such uses as schools, library, utilities, and government buildings. The....1.and....use.....pla.n....is....intended to....genera.11 guide... future.... land use decisions .............................................................................. �. which are typically made simultaneous to other decisions regarding the provision of adequate public facilities and services and infrastructure improvements. Consideration should be given to the following issues prior to making land use decisions: Character of the surrounding and adjacent neighborhoods; Existing use of nearby properties, and the extent to _which a land use classification would be in harmony with such existing uses or the anticipated use of the properties Suitability of the property for the uses to which would be permissible, considering density, access and circulation, adequacy of public facilities and services, and other considerations; Extent to which the designated use of the orooerty would harm the value of adiacent land us Extent to which the proposed use designation would adversely affect the capacity or safety of that portion of the road network influenced by the use; Extent to which the proposed use designation would permit excessive air, water or noise pollution, or other environmental harm on adiacent land use designations; and, ......The ..gain, if...any, to...the...public _health.....safety,... .and .welfare... due to.. the existence of the land use designation. Individual land..development..proposals should b ..considered for.approva.l at the scale of neighborhood, sub -area, and development project planning, which are to be considered in subsequent zoning and rezoning actions by the Citv. These decisions should be based upon consideration of the established policies and conformance with the Future Land Use Plan. The Future Land Use Plan is not a zoning map, nor should it be used a . such. The detailed pattern and location of land uses on a parcel -specific basis cannot b...accurately predicted.for 20...years into the future Small area land use decisions should appropriately be made at the scale of neighborhood,. sub -area, and development project .................................................................................................................................................................................................................. planning, which are to be considered in subsequent..zoning... and ... ezoning. actions...by the City. These decisions should be based upon consideration of the Future Land Use Plan and should be consistent with the generalized land uses shown in the plan. Future Consideration of Character -Based PlanninLy One of the ways to improve community appearance is to adopt a "character -based" approach to zoning and land development, which offers many benefits (see inset .... on. next"1111111 page) when compared to a conventional approach like that of the City's existing ordinance. As .............. such, this Comprehensive Plan update recommends the. City consider ..in.the ... future ... o transition to a character -based approach to planning. The..... remainder of.. thi5..... chapter provides guidance for if and when that transition .................. might be undertaken Community character goes beyond typical categorization of the functional use of land — such as residential, commercial, and industrial — to account, as well, for the physical traits one can see in an area that contribute to its "look and feel." A character -based approach focuses on the development intensity, which encompasses the density and layout of residential development; the scale and form of non-residential development; and the amount of building and pavement coverage (i.e., impervious coverage) relative to the extent of open space and natural vegetation or landscaping. This applies both on individual development sites and across entire areas. It is this combination of basic land use and the characteristics of such use that more accurately determines the real compatibility and quality of development, as opposed to land use alone. For instance, both Main Street and Fairmont Parkway have restaurants (i.e., the same use); however, when patronizing a restaurant along Main Street, one encounters a more pedestrian -friendly environment with sidewalks, gridded streets, buildings brought mostly to the street, and on -street parking. In contrast, when patronizing a restaurant along Fairmont Parkway, one encounters a more auto -oriented environment where there are no sidewalks (or they are sporadic) and buildings are set back behind off-street parking (see inset on next page for an example of the same residential use exhibiting three different characters). Key Planning Considerations 1) Amending the zoning ordinance to repurpose and recalibrate its districts and standards to reflect their intended community character outcomes. GOAL ?11: Implementing a ................... character -based approach ........................................................................................................................................ to....lanning by..r°efocusing the zoning ordinance to emphasize the character and form of development in appropriate zoning districts. The City's zoning ordinance was originally adopted in the 1980s and is based on a conventional m� (Euclidean) approach to zoning — one that focuses on land use and minimum area standards. As part of the implementation of this comprehensive plan update, it is erd isa bYe recommended that the City consider at some time in the future to for the ...�b...�.rd�n�.n.r +�....be repurposed and recalibrate*d the ..... oning... and development ordinances to place emphasis on the character of development (without placing as much emphasis on land use). While use should remain a secondary consideration, the density/intensity and design of development is of much greater importance if the City is to enhance its character. Actions and Initiatives 1) Consider revising..Rev; e the district purpose statements to define the intended character of the district, rather than general use types. For instance, the purpose of the R-1, Low Density Residential District is "for low -density, single-family detached dwellings..." Instead, the purpose may indicate the district is suburban in nature, characterized by a balance between the landscape and buildings, which may be large lots or smaller lots clustered around public open space. Open space and low impervious surface ratios characterize the built environment. 2) Consider recalibrating Reca!ibrate the density and open space ratios of each zoning district and revise the dimensional standards to reflect the intended character. For instance, the setbacks and lot widths and coverage should vary by character, with small setbacks and higher coverage for neighborhoods of an urban character and larger setbacks and lower coverage for suburban and rural neighborhoods. 3) Consider identifying Identify established neighborhoods with cohesive character and community identity and create neighborhood conservation districts to protect and promote the existing neighborhood feel. In addition, allow for reasonable improvements in these existing neighborhoods without cumbersome variance procedures. Include by - right standards for making improvements to buildings to ensure that they remain in character with the neighborhood and do not adversely impact the use and enjoyment of neighboring properties. 4) Consider transitioning Transitio the existing Planned Unit Development (PUD) regulations to a Planned Development (PD) option available in certain districts in order to mix different housing types. This by -right option allows the density and open space standards to be clearly defined to reflect the intended character. A housing palette should be utilized to clearly specify the minimum lot areas and dimensions, setbacks, building heights, and maximum building coverage for each dwelling unit type. These new PD provisions would include explicit density and open space standards together with provisions for permitted and limited uses, housing diversity, dimensional criteria, residential and nonresidential development standards, open space and recreation design, subdivision layout and design, street configurations, and bufferyards and transitions thereby allowing them as a by -right option rather than through a discretionary approval process. 5) Consider reviewing and revising Re.iev u^d revise. -the lists of permitted and conditional uses in each district. The current districts are cumulative meaning that - single family dwellings are permitted in both low and high density districts. The permitted uses in the commercial district are based on their use function rather than their scale or design character. By way of example, the neighborhood commercial district allows drugstores, eating places, and grocery stores with limitations of scale or other design parameters to ensure a character that is compatible with the adjacent neighborhood. 6) Consider adopting ^dopt a housing palette that includes dimensional standards for each of several housing types. The purpose of the palette is to ensure the character (size, spacing, scale) of each housing type in a neighborhood or mixed housing development, such as a mixed use center or traditional neighborhood development (THD). 7) For the purposes of procedural streamlining and to better focus the appropriate locations of uses, c.o.n.sider. restricting the types and numbers of allowable conditional uses. For those uses with performance standards, make them a limited use whereby they are administratively permitted subject to written standards. 8) Consider amending Amend the ordinance to include bufferyard provisions for ensuring improved compatibility between adjacent areas of different character. The bufferyards must vary according to the intensity of abutting development, with a range of options (including combinations of buffer width, plant density, earthen berms, and fencing) to meet a specified standard of opacity. This would provide adequate buggering of adjacent uses as well as street corridors. The existing provisions only specify a 25 foot buffer between multi -family and single family residential developments without any specification as to the type of density of landscaping. 9) Consider establishing FstU, !i3" a minimum open space ratio (OSR) within residential development and landscape surface ration (LSR) within nonresidential development. The ratios will vary according to the character of the district. These areas will provide visual buffering and shade, accommodate recreational amenities, and provide needed space for stormwater detention. Below details potential future character districts that could be implemented if the Citv transitions to a character -based approach to Dlannin Future Character Districts Rural. This designation is for areas with large acreages (scattered homesteads and pasture land) and very large lot developments. It may also include clustered residential development that is offset by a high percentage of open space on the overall tract. Rural character is usually found in areas on the fringe of the City where infrastructure (i.e., curb and gutter, sewer, etc.) may be less intensive than other areas of the City. Rural character typically exhibits: • Wide open landscapes, with no sense of enclosure, and the views to the horizon are unbroken by buildings. • Structures are in the background — or invisible entirely as they blend into the landscape. • Very high open space ratios and very low building coverage. • Greater building separation providing privacy and detachment from neighboring dwellings. • Much greater reliance on natural drainage systems. • A more pleasant environment for walking and biking, especially for off- street trail systems. Suburban Residential. This designation is for areas that include detached residential dwellings; planned developments (to provide other housing types, e.g., attached residential, with increased open space), etc. Suburban Residential character typically exhibits: • A high degree of open space maintained on the site. • Larger lot sizes to allow for larger front yards and building setbacks. • Greater side separation between homes. • Less noticeable accommodation of the automobile (especially where driveways are on the side of homes rather than occupying a portion of the front yard space, and where garages are situated to the side or rear of the main dwelling). • In some case, Suburban Residential can accommodate smaller lot sizes in exchange for greater open space, with the additional open space devoted to maintaining the Suburban character and buffering adjacent properties. Auto Urban Residential. This designation also includes detached residential dwellings; attached housing types (subject to compatibility and open space standards, e.g., duplexes, townhomes, patio homes); planned developments (with a potential mix of housing types and varying densities, subject to compatibility and open space standards), etc. Auto Urban Character typically exhibits: • Less openness and separation between dwellings compared to Suburban areas. • Auto -oriented character (e.g., driveways and front -loading garages dominate the front yard and facades of homes). • Uniform front setbacks where minimal variation in individual house design can create a monotonous street environment. • Lack of variation (sometimes) or excessive monotony which can be offset by "antimonotony' architectural standards, landscaping, and limitations on subdivision layouts that are overly characterized by straight streets and uniform lot sizes and arrangement. Traditional Residential. This designation covers many of the core single- family residential neighborhoods within East La Porte. The prevailing lot size allows for less openness and separation between homes than in Suburban and Rural residential areas. Traditional Residential character areas typically exhibit: • Mature tree canopies; which help to differentiate these areas from Auto - Urban Residential areas. • Highly gridded streets, oftentimes with alleys. • Incremental increases in housing density and lot coverage; enough to differentiate from corresponding Suburban Residential areas. Suburban Village. This designation includes mixed use (on single sites and within individual structures), attached residential dwellings (possi bly live/work units), commercial retail, office, etc. Rather than linear strips, these village centers will have much smaller building footprints and typically cater towards neighborhood conveniences such as drug stores, professional services, and retail users. Given the expected increases in population constrained by the limited areas remaining for development, it is recommended that La Porte consider facilitating the development of some of the remaining areas as more self-contained, mixed use villages. Suburban Village character areas typically exhibit: • High degree of landscape surface than found in Auto -Urban character areas. • Pedestrian -oriented setting and more walkable environments. • Higher site coverage, where a minimum two-story structures are encouraged. • Reliance on on -street parking, centralized public parking, and where feasible, structured parking. Auto Urban Commercial. Development types include a wide range of commercial retail and service uses (at varying scales and intensities depending on the site); office (both large and/or multi -story buildings and small-scale office uses depending on the site); and public/institutional areas. Auto -Urban character areas typically exhibit: • A largely horizontal development pattern. • A very open environment (but to accommodate extensive surface parking versus the more prominent green spaces found in Suburban areas) • Significant area devoted to vehicular access drives, circulation routes, surface parking, and loading/delivery areas (making pavement the most prominent visual feature versus green or open areas). Auto -oriented character may be enhanced with better building and site design. Urban Downtown. This character area is different from an Auto -Urban commercial area in that the buildings are brought to the street and there is no or very limited on -site parking. Buildings within this district occupy a large percentage of the site, and front and side yard setbacks must be built to the property line in order to maintain the characteristics of a traditional downtown. Downtown character areas typically exhibit: • Most intensive development character in City. • Streets framed by buildings with zero/minimal front setbacks. • Greatest site coverage. • Minimum two-story structures encouraged. • Reliance on on -street parking, centralized public parking, and where feasible, structured parking. • Public/institutional uses designed of an Urban character. Business Park. This designation is typically Suburban in character and primarily is for office, medical, and technology/research uses, but can also include light industrial (including warehousing/distribution) when well screened and in buildings with enhanced architectural design. Business Parks are a good way to attract new companies to the area and could be an attractive alternative the existing facilities available today. Business Park character areas are typically grouped in campus style settings and typically exhibit: • Reduced site coverage and larger areas of common open space. • A minimum open space ratio of 20%-30%, which still allows for a sizable cumulative building footprint since most such developments involve large sites. • Extensive landscaping of business park perimeter, and special streetscaping and design treatments at entries, key intersections, and internal focal points. • Development outcomes that exceed City ordinances and development standards (because they are often controlled by private covenants and restrictions) • Site operations that are conducted indoors with no outdoor storage or display. Auto -Urban Industrial. La Porte's has been traditionally known as an industrial City, and as such, there are many industrial areas located in and around the City which exhibit an Auto -Urban character. Although, these areas can be enhanced through landscaping and buffering standards, master - planning via "industrial parks," and optimal site selection. The City's existing industrial buildings are a mix of older and new brick and metal buildings scattered throughout the City. Auto -Urban Industrial character areas typically exhibit: • Predominantly characterized by large parking and storage areas and minimal greenspace; although some industrial park developments may feature more open space and landscaping, regulated signage, screening, etc. • Outdoor activity and storage, which should be screened where visible from public ways and buffered from residential areas. It could also include certain publicly owned uses (e.g., public works facilities, fleet maintenance, treatment plants, etc.) Parks and Open Space. This designation is for the City's park, recreation, and open space areas and the trail system. Parks are formally developed recreation areas comprised of public parks, trails, and other improved recreational (active and passive) or cultural amenities. Open spaces are less developed natural areas typically characterized by sensitive or unique environmental features that may or may not be developed. Typically, public parkland will remain in the public realm in perpetuity with future parkland acquired to fill the gaps and support new development. Park design, intensity of development, and planned uses/activities should match the area character (e.g., Five Points Town Plaza should look different than Pete Gilliam Park). Parks and Open Space character areas typically exhibit: • Manicured lawns, parking lots and sidewalks, playgrounds, sports courts and sports fields, etc. • Unimproved natural areas or improved to provide limited amenities, e.g., parking, trails, bird blinds, etc. Public/Institutional. This designation includes the City -owned buildings and facilities (including City Hall and the police and fire stations), as well as other publicly or privately -owned schools and hospitals, churches and accessory buildings, public parking lots and structures, and other non -governmental civic functions (e.g., Chamber of Commerce). Since these facilities occur throughout the City, they should be designed to be compatible with the character of the surrounding area. Irrespective of which character area these facilities are placed, they should still exhibit: