MINUTES OF THE

April 21, 2005

Planning & Zoning Commission

Members Present:  John Atwood, Chairman, and members Chris Brownawell, Linda Cheezum, Dan Swann and Tom Moore.

Members Absent:

Staff Present:  Tom Hamilton, Town Planner, Zach Smith, GIS Analyst, Lynn Thomas, Planner and Stacie Rice, Planning Secretary.

Staff Absent:   None.

Mr. Atwood called the meeting of the Planning & Zoning Commission to order at 1:00 p.m.  The first order of business was the approval of the March 15^th minutes.  Upon motion of Mr. Swann, seconded by Mr. Moore the Commission voted 5-0 to approve the March minutes.

The first item discussed was 204 Pennsylvania Avenue requesting PR (Planned Redevelopment) review for 38 attached single family units.  The applicant’s agent, Bill Stagg, explained that this is an in-fill residential project, which is adjacent to the rail trail.  Open space is minimal other than landscaping areas between the buildings and sidewalks. This site abuts a residential neighborhood.  The proposed buildings are setback approximately 12 feet from Dixon and Cherry Streets.  Two parking spaces per unit are located under each unit and 2 additional spaces are provided outside each unit.  The applicant is also proposing 14 on site guest parking spaces.  Mr. Stagg stated that a preliminary traffic analysis had been prepared, and that the proposed use will generate more traffic, however it will be minimal.  The proposed use would cut down on the existing truck traffic which occurs at this time. The Commission was concerned with the rear architecture of the proposed units.  They felt as though they should be redesigned to give them more character.   The Commission felt that this project was a great in fill project and would be an enhancement to the existing area.  However, the Commission would like to have input from the Fire Department to see if they have any comments.  The Commission would also like to see additional accesses from the proposed development to the rail trail. This Commission did not take a vote on this application, as they would like to hear from the Fire Department prior to voting. 

The Commission discussed the draft Zoning Ordinance and voted 5-0 to send the draft Ordinance to the Town Council. 

The next item was from staff concerning Lot 31, Cooke’s Hope Final Plat.  Upon motion of Mr. Brownawell, seconded by Mr. Swann the Commission voted 5-0 to approve the final plat for Lot 31, Cooke’s Hope. 

Planning & Zoning Minutes

Page 2

April 21, 2005

The next item was also from staff concerning a special event for Norris Ford of Easton.  They would like to erect a 20’ x 40’ tent for the month of May to promote a used car event.  The Commission was in favor of this request. 

There being no further business the meeting was adjourned at 2:55 p.m. by motion of Mr. Swann, seconded by Mrs. Cheezum.

Respectfully submitted,

Stacie S. Rice

                                                                        Planning & Zoning Secretary