04 SEP 13.doc
CITY OF JACKSONVILLE, ARKANSAS
REGULAR PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING
SEPTEMBER 13, 2004
7:00 P.M. – 8:40 P.M.
OPENING REMARKS:
Vice Chairman Stroud opened the meeting at approximately 7:00
p.m. expressing appreciation for those in attendance.
ROLL CALL: Commissioners Susan Dollar, Chad Young, Bobby Lester,
Glen Keaton, and Mike Traylor answered ROLL CALL. Vice Chairman
Stroud also answered ROLL CALL and declared a quorum. PRESENT
six (6), ABSENT three (3).
Others present for the meeting were City Engineer Whisker, Mr.
Lucian Gilliam, Mr. Ken stocker Lieutenant Col. Gene Taylor, Mr.
Robert Brown, Alderman Bob Stroud, Mr. Larry Dupree, Mr. David
Jones, Mr. Mike Marlar, and Mr. Tommy Bond.
APPROVAL AND/OR CORRECTION OF MINUTES:
Commissioner Young moved, seconded by Commissioner Dollar that
the minutes of the 9 August 2004 Regular Planning Commission
meeting be approved as presented. MOTION CARRIED.
PUBLIC HEARING(S):
DEVIATION IN AGENDA: AICUZ Update by LRAFB
Commissioner Dollar moved, seconded by Commissioner Lester to
place the AICUZ Update as the next item on the agenda. MOTION
CARRIED.
Public Affairs Officer Captain John Sheets introduced Lieutenant
th
Col. Gene Taylor, 314 Operations Support Squadron Commander. He
stated that Lieutenant Col. Taylor oversees the airfield and the
air space that surrounds the Base as well as the flight training
routes. He noted that Lieutenant Col. Taylor is also an
experienced C-130 pilot. He then introduced Mr. Lucian Gilliam
the LRAFB Deputy Civil Engineer and Mr. Ken Stocker LRAFB
Community Planner.
Lieutenant Col. Gene Taylor commended the strong working
relationship between the LRAFB and the Jacksonville Community.
He related that the purpose of the AICUZ program is to provide a
seamless interface regarding flight operations and the impact of
community development. He reviewed steps at the State level
regarding the adoption of Arkansas Act #530 in 1995 for cities
with an Air Force Base within their city limits sponsored by
former Representative Mike W, adding that the City of
Jacksonville then adopted Ordinance 1119 in April of 1999 to
define the recommendations of the AICUZ Program. He related that
one of the main thrusts of the program is to minimize community
disturbance through managing operating hours, noting that noise
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CITY OF JACKSONVILLE, ARKANSAS
REGULAR PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING
SEPTEMBER 13, 2004
7:00 P.M. – 8:40 P.M.
levels are more acceptable during the day then at night and
control of the aircraft flight paths. He noted that each
operation is limited, adding that the Air Force has moved
increasingly toward night operations.
He then reviewed that originally AICUZ consideration were
introduced to the LRAFB in September 1977 with several studies in
the interim years, adding that the previous study was completed
in 1992 regarding amendments to procedures with the addition of
the C-130J Aircraft. He noted that the current study was
completed in April 2003 and that the three areas of focus are
noise zones, accident potential zones, and approach/departure
clearance surface. He demonstrated the 1992 noise contours in
regard to the 2003 noise contours, noting that in both
comparisons the highest concentration of noise levels are located
on the Air Base. He noted that the decibel levels range from 65
decibels to the north going off base to 90 decibels on the Base.
He stated that the noise contours have changed because the C-130J
is a slightly louder aircraft and operations have migrated to
night missions, which carries a greater noise impact. He then
correlated common noise sources to decibel levels, pointing out
that 65 decibels is normal speech at 3 feet, and then equated
that a vacuum at 10 feet would equal 70 decibels. He noted that
while that may not seem very loud it becomes an issue if it is a
noise heard on and off all day. He presented recommendations
regarding development in consideration to various noise levels.
He noted that residential development is not recommended in noise
contours of 65 decibels or higher, commercial is acceptable until
decibel levels reach 80 plus and added that industrial or
agricultural development is acceptable in all contour levels.
He then reviewed accident potential zones, pointing out that the
first 3000’ adjacent to the end of the runway is the clear zone,
then the next 5000’ is the APZ 1 followed by the next 7000’
representing the APZ 2 zone. He stated that historically 25% of
accidents happen on the runway, 27.4% occur in the clear zone
representing approximately 50 plus percent of mishaps. He then
related that the accident potential drops to 10% in the APZ 1
zone and 5% in the APZ 2 zone. He reviewed accident
compatibility, saying that no type of development is recommended
in the clear zone, adding that residential, commercial and public
development is not recommended for APZ 1, while industrial
recreation and agricultural is permitted because of low density.
He then noted that all types of development are acceptable for
the APZ 2 zone.
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CITY OF JACKSONVILLE, ARKANSAS
REGULAR PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING
SEPTEMBER 13, 2004
7:00 P.M. – 8:40 P.M.
He presented a composite of the noise and accident potential
zones offering an overview of the area recommended for deliberate
and controlled development and the areas of potential development
conflicts regarding existing developments. He stated that one of
the recommendations would be to raise the threshold decibel level
in the current ordinance from 75 to 65. He added that he
believes current legislation provides for increased sound
insulation in areas of 75 decibels, adding that their
recommendation would be for 65 decibels.
He then reviewed the approach/departure clearance surface, which
he stated is primarily focused on vertical obstructions. He
explained that navigation equipment could be compromised by
vertical obstructions. He related that the pattern stretches off
both ends of the runway and travels out approximately 10 miles
and is approximately 3 miles wide. He stated that the farther
from the runway the more acceptable the level of vertical
obstruction. He related that anyone considering construction
with significant vertical relief in those zones should contact
the Base and speak to someone in the Civil Engineering before
beginning construction.
He concluded saying that the Air Force wants to ensure compatible
land use development through continued communication regarding
integrated development plans and flight operations.
Mr. Lucien Gilliam stated that City Ordinance 1119 already has
building construction provisions, which adopts that the current
edition of the Southern Standard Building Code regarding sound
insulation. He noted that the decibel level mentioned in that
section of the Ordinance is 75 decibels, reiterating that they
are recommending the amendment of 65 decibels for the clear zone,
APZ 1 and APZ 2 zones. He pointed out that 65 decibels is the
latest Air Force AICUZ recommendation and that the area referred
to as the “racetrack”, as shown is recommended for inclusion into
the noise contour overlay district. He clarified that the
inclusion would only be for noise control, adding that it would
not limit the number or size of houses that could be built in
that inclusion. He then answered that it could be defined in the
amendment ordinance as a “sound continuation zone”. He stated
that when the original ordinance was adopted there were very few
areas to cause concern over 65 decibels outside of the clear
zone, APZ 1 and APZ 2. He then related that the Air Force looks
closely at how local communities comply with the AICUZ
recommendations.
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CITY OF JACKSONVILLE, ARKANSAS
REGULAR PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING
SEPTEMBER 13, 2004
7:00 P.M. – 8:40 P.M.
In response to a question from the audience, Lieutenant Col.
Taylor answered that the number of flights that depart to the
south are so low that it does not generate an average noise
decibel level high enough to raise the standard.
Mr. Gilliam explained that DNL is the Day/Night sound related
average, explaining that sound carries more at night then it does
in the day. He stated that the DNL is based on the number and
time of flights. He noted that the Air Force has recommended a
lower standard for greater protection regarding additional
precautions for insulation mainly in attic areas. He then
answered that the area of inclusion would only be the “racetrack”
area depicted on the earlier slides, which would not be easy for
a surveyor to write into a legal description for the ordinance.
In discussion regarding the “racetrack” area, Mr. Ken Stocker
noted that flight patterns and the number of flights have not
changed substantially over the years, adding that the major
difference is the addition of night operations and a slightly
louder J-model aircraft. He stated that the best word to
describe the situation could be encroachment, explaining that
when Air Force Bases have concerns it becomes encroachment issues
with incompatible development. He stated that it is prudent to
have standards in place before there is development pressure.
Commissioner Young questioned what developments are currently
located in the inclusion area.
City Engineer Whisker answered that the area is in the County,
adding that he does not believe the Planning Commission had
review of those developments.
Mr. Stocker clarified that the development conflicts are
considered single-family residential that are of a greater
density than one house per acre, which is the only potential
conflict. He added that there is no issue regarding incompatible
uses.
It was noted that the current ordinance already addresses types
of incompatibility.
Vice Chairman Stroud stated that a public hearing would be held
to address amendments to the present ordinance.
REQUEST TO APPROVE PLATS: a. PRELIMINARY PLAT REVISIONS for the
Base Meadows Addition PH I
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CITY OF JACKSONVILLE, ARKANSAS
REGULAR PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING
SEPTEMBER 13, 2004
7:00 P.M. – 8:40 P.M.
Mr. David Jones of Marlar Engineering stated that he had one more
revision to add to the plans. He explained that due to the
Highway Department requirements regarding sight distance, the
entrance on Hwy 107 was moved 137’ to the southwest. He then
explained that after meeting with the Sewer Department, the
developer has decided to create an improvement district and
extend the gravity sewer from the Penn Pointe area to the
proposed development. He stated that the Wastewater Department
is working with the developer and the LRAFB to acquire easements
necessary to cross Base property.
Vice Chairman Stroud noted a necessary change in the bill of
assurance regarding individually owned sewer.
Mr. Jones stated that the bill of assurance would be changed to
reflect the new revisions.
City Engineer Whisker noted that the common property on the
southwest corner is for a pump station that would enable the
developer to sewer the entire area, adding that any approval
should be followed by annexation into the City of Jacksonville.
He then added the stipulation that no final plat be approved
before the sewer is completely hooked up to the West Interceptor
line being run to Penn Pointe. He noted that the West
Interceptor line should be completed by March 2005 and that he
would also request that prior to any further preliminary phases
being accepted, the developer go before the Parks Commission
regarding any desire to see a pocket park in the area, adding
that he would also request sidewalk on lot 244. He related that
the developer is seeking a waiver from constructing sidewalks on
Hwy 107, adding that it is a City Ordinance to do so, but the
developer is hoping to not do that since they are putting sewer
in the area.
Commissioner Dollar stated that she has concerns regarding the
sidewalks along Hwy 107, adding that it is part of the urbanized
area. She stated that sidewalks are not just constructed for the
immediate concerns but for the next twenty years out, adding that
she feels there will be sidewalks at some point. She stated that
she believes the area is part of the arterial regional network,
being roads that have been targeted for that type of improvement.
She stated that she does not doubt that someone at the Highway
Department quoted the 55-mile exclusion policy regarding
sidewalks, but added that it would not be a written policy. She
stated that there are regional design standards that have been
incorporated by the City and Pulaski County that require
sidewalks.
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CITY OF JACKSONVILLE, ARKANSAS
REGULAR PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING
SEPTEMBER 13, 2004
7:00 P.M. – 8:40 P.M.
Mr. Jones stated that Mr. David Barnett, Chief of Design for the
Highway Department specifically told him that they do not put in
sidewalks, curb, or gutter when the design speed is over 45 mph.
He stated that Hwy 107 is designed for 55 mph, adding that the
Highway Department would not permit them to put a sidewalk in
their right-of-way.
Commissioner Dollar stated that she understands that is the
Highway Department’s position, adding that she would like a
letter from the Highway Department that spells out that policy.
Mr. Jones related that he requested a letter to that affect and
was told that the Highway Department does not put that policy in
writing.
Commissioner Dollar acknowledged that, stating that is her point.
Mr. Jones related that to be the design standards followed by the
Highway Department and that they have no choice but to comply.
He went on to say that the Highway Department would be the one to
actually permit a sidewalk, adding that he was told that the
developer would not be permitted to put in a sidewalk. He
explained that the developer would not be able to construct the
sidewalk without a permit.
Commissioner Dollar related that she would like to go ahead,
request the letter, and see if at some point the Highway
Department might permit a sidewalk. She stated that although the
Highway Department does many good things, quality of life in and
around Jacksonville would not be their primary concern. She
stated that she does feel that it is something that is within the
purview of the Planning Commission to consider.
In response to a question posed by Commissioner Young, City
Engineer Whisker clarified that a sidewalk would need to be
constructed at lot 244 at the entrance from Hwy 107.
Mr. Jones agreed that the developer would construct the sidewalk
along lot 244, adding that an upturned curb would be placed there
to prevent bicycles from riding into the Hwy right-of-way.
Commissioner Dollar mentioned a bridge and bike plan, adding that
she was not sure if it extended to Hwy 107.
City Engineer Whisker answered that he was not sure, adding that
he believes that it is an un-written plan that goes up Hwy 107.
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CITY OF JACKSONVILLE, ARKANSAS
REGULAR PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING
SEPTEMBER 13, 2004
7:00 P.M. – 8:40 P.M.
In response to an observation by Vice Chairman Stroud, City
Engineer Whisker confirmed that lot 8 and 9 is the common area
designated for the pump station. He went on to explain that part
of the area would need to be served by a pump station because of
the ridge that runs through lots 3, 14, 23, 24, and 25.
Mr. Jones agreed, saying that the ridge is basically a line from
lot 244 through lot 25 and 26, adding that the west side of that
line would be serviced by the pump station and the rest would be
service gravity to the main line.
In response to a question from Vice Chairman Stroud, Mr. Jones
stated that access to the common property is established through
a driveway that would come off from Hwy 107, the same that was
proposed for the treatment plant site. He clarified that it is
the same permit, adding that it has been moved closer to General
Samuels, which made the Highway Department happier because it is
in the transitional area.
Vice Chairman Stroud offered opposition an opportunity to address
the Commission.
Mr. Marty Sanibel of Scenic Estates Subdivision stated that he
would like to feel that the Planning Commission feels a
responsibility to the existing property holders. He related that
the proposal for 1400 square foot houses to his mind is a fancy
term for a “trailer park”. He stated that property values are in
jeopardy and that he feels the developer should be held to the
same standard of 3,000 square feet.
Mr. William Webb of 5006 Madison stated that the development
would be adjacent to his back yard, expressing concerns for sewer
and pointing out that the developer is planning a sewer
improvement district because he is putting in a pump station
instead of a sewer treatment plant. He stated that he would be
taxed to put the sewer in the development without being
consulted.
Vice Chairman Stroud related that Mr. Webb would not be taxed
regarding the sewer improvement district.
Mr. Webb questioned that since the developer is creating a sewer
improvement district in lieu of a treatment plant, would he be
required to hookup to that line which would be approximately 150’
from his property.
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CITY OF JACKSONVILLE, ARKANSAS
REGULAR PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING
SEPTEMBER 13, 2004
7:00 P.M. – 8:40 P.M.
After conversing with City Attorney Bamburg, Vice Chairman Stroud
stated that Mr. Webb would be required to hook on if his property
is within 150’ of the main.
City Engineer Whisker demonstrated those lots within the proposed
subdivision that back up to the Jackson Heights Subdivision.
Discussion ensued regarding the location of internal sewer lines
and the location of the main. Mr. Jones clarified that the main
would run through the Base property. It was related that only
the property owners in the proposed subdivision would be assessed
for the sewer improvement district unless other subdivisions
agreed to be a part of the improvement district.
Mr. Webb expressed concerns for being required to hook on to the
sewer at his expense.
Vice Chairman Stroud stated that as proposed, Jackson Heights
would have to tie onto the sewer.
Mr. Webb stated that he was not informed of the creation of an
improvement district, which he feels would affect him and then
questioned the approximate costs to hook to the main.
City Engineer Whisker related that the Wastewater Department
agreed to enter in agreement regarding the sewer, adding that the
City Attorney would work out the details to the best interest of
the City as well as the land development.
Vice Chairman Stroud pointed out that Jackson Heights is the only
area in the City that does not have sewer, adding that his
feeling would be that the improvement of sewer would increase
property values.
Mr. Webb stated that decisions are being made without input from
residents who live in Jackson Heights. He stated that he does
not have a problem having a septic tank, but does have a problem
with decisions being made that will cost him. He added that
there are no cost estimates, saying that it would be a
substantial burden. He questioned his recourse if he is not even
consulted about being a part of the district.
City Attorney Bamburg clarified that when the sewer improvement
district is complete and passes inspection, his understanding is
that the sewer lines will be transferred into the Jacksonville
Wastewater Utility’s Collection System. He added that if the
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CITY OF JACKSONVILLE, ARKANSAS
REGULAR PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING
SEPTEMBER 13, 2004
7:00 P.M. – 8:40 P.M.
lines run along the proposed street “Flight Court” that backs up
to lots 61, 62, 63, 31, 32, 33, and 10 through 13 of Jackson
Heights Addition that would put a main sewer line within 300’ of
the aforementioned lots. He added that in such a circumstance
the City ordinance, as it exists, would require those parties to
tie onto the sewer main in order to provide service through the
system. He noted that the City Council, not the Planning
Commission, would be the body to amend the ordinance, but could
do so by recommendation of the Planning Commission.
Mr. Webb stated that he meets the criteria just described,
questioning what the fee would be for him to hook onto the main.
Commissioner Lester stated that when the line was extended to
Bushwood Estates it cost him approximately $800.00, not including
the pipe.
Mr. Webb asked if his understanding, that he can be required to
hook onto the sewer line but not be part of the improvement
district is correct.
City Attorney Bamburg stated that if the property of the district
and the system is accepted by Jacksonville Wastewater Utility as
part of their collection system, then the answer would be yes.
Mr. Webb stated that if the City accepts that, what is his
status.
City Attorney Bamburg explained that the current ordinance
provides that any structure within 300’ of a sewer main is to be
connected to the system.
Mr. Webb stated that he wanted to clarify that he could be forced
to hook onto the sewer main if he is within 300’ but would not be
part of the sewer improvement district.
Vice Chairman Stroud concurred. He then pointed out that at the
previous meeting there was discussion regarding letters of an
improvement district that had received favorable response, which
is part of the reason the Planning Commission has taken the
present course with the proposed development.
A twenty-five year resident of Adams Drive in the Jackson Heights
Subdivision recommended that a hold be placed on the project
until the property is annexed into the City, giving the
Commission authority.
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CITY OF JACKSONVILLE, ARKANSAS
REGULAR PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING
SEPTEMBER 13, 2004
7:00 P.M. – 8:40 P.M.
Vice Chairman Stroud related that the Planning Commission has
authority up to five miles outside City limits.
Mr. Bob Kaiser of 703 Adams Drive stated that the Subdivision has
experienced problems with the water pressure, expressing concern
for adding 200 plus homes to the system. He questioned what is
being done to upgrade the water system.
City Engineer Whisker responded that the Water Commission has
reviewed water pressure concerns for the area, explaining that
the area runs on Central Arkansas Water pressure plain that is
different from Jacksonville. He stated that Central Arkansas
Water has a higher-pressure rate, but added that there are
concerns that if the area is taken off Central Arkansas Water it
may cause pressure problems. He stated that the Water Commission
asked for an analysis regarding the 244 lots to determine if that
would hinder pressure.
Mr. Jones stated that there is a 1,000-gallon flow on the Central
Arkansas Water side allowing for 65 PSI, adding that the
Jacksonville Water side is 1,000-gallons with 42 PSI. He noted
that both are well above the 20-PSI minimum requirement.
Mr. Kaiser expressed further concerns for recent water pressure
decrease. He then questioned the water run-off from the area.
Vice Chairman Stroud noted that the only area of run-off concern
would be the corner of lots 8 and 9, adding that the rest of the
property is flowing away from Jackson Heights.
In response to a question posed by Commissioner Young, Mr. Jones
related that while the minimum square footage requirement is
1400, it is conceived that most of the homes would be more around
1500 to 1700 square feet.
Commissioner Dollar supported the minimum requirement stating
that there is a place in the market for smaller homes regarding
young professionals and older couples without children at home.
Mr. Jones stated that it is the feeling of the developer that
most of the lots will be developed for people who work and serve
on the LRAFB, as an alternative to Base housing.
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CITY OF JACKSONVILLE, ARKANSAS
REGULAR PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING
SEPTEMBER 13, 2004
7:00 P.M. – 8:40 P.M.
Vice Chairman Stroud commended the developer for his efforts in
the bill of assurance, adding that he does not doubt that the
subdivision will feature quality housing. He stated that he did
have concerns for the 1400 square foot minimum, but added that
with the restrictions outlined in the bill of assurance he feels
that the development will be an upscale neighborhood.
Discussion ensued regarding further corrections of the bill of
assurance and Mr. Jones stated that he would correct the item.
Vice Chairman Stroud noted that the Wastewater Department has
approved the creation of an improvement district.
Mr. David Jones expressed appreciation to the Planning Commission
in working for a plan beneficial to both the developer and the
City. He added that he is asking the Planning Commission to
consider a waiver of the sidewalk requirement.
In response to a question posed by Vice Chairman Stroud, Mr.
Heslep stated that he would agree to annex into the City.
Commissioner Young moved, seconded by Commissioner Dollar to
approve the revised Preliminary Plat, stipulating revised notes
on the plans, annexation into the City of Jacksonville, no Final
Plat approval before the sewer is hooked up, that the plat to be
reviewed by the Parks and Recreation Commission for a pocket
park, that Lot 244 have a sidewalk extending to Hwy 107, and that
sidewalks will be required on Hwy 107 unless a letter from the
Highway Department states that sidewalks cannot be placed there.
MOTION CARRIED.
b. FINAL PLAT Dawkins Commercial Addition Lots 1F, 2F, & 3F
Mr. Robert Brown of Development Consultants representing Dawkins
Commercial Addition property owners stated that the improvement
plans for streets, drainage, and utility have been completed and
submitted to City Engineer Whisker along with cost estimates. He
added that a cashier check for improvements has been submitted
for deposit.
City Engineer Whisker related that his only request would be that
the three lots facing Main Street have centered driveway-shared
access on the lot line. He then clarified that his
recommendation would be for two entrances from Main Street along
with one from Marshall Drive and one from Municipal Drive. He
then agreed that accesses from the interior street of Dawkins
Drive to the lots would be beneficial.
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CITY OF JACKSONVILLE, ARKANSAS
REGULAR PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING
SEPTEMBER 13, 2004
7:00 P.M. – 8:40 P.M.
City Engineer Whisker added that this development would solve the
intersection issue at Main and Municipal regarding the straighten
of Municipal Street. He then answered that the extension of
Municipal Drive would require curb and gutter into the parking
area with a curb cut across from Dawkins Drive into the parking
area.
Commissioner Young questioned if there would be a setback from
the back of curb to Municipal Drive to establish a green area.
City Engineer Whisker stated that there would be a 30’ easement
providing a 3 to 9’ buffer with grass.
Discussion ensued regarding landscaping commitments from existing
commercial businesses. City Engineer Whisker related that the
business owners did express they might want to join in
landscaping efforts.
Commissioner Young noted that the main issues would be the shared
access from Main Street as well as an interior drive from Dawkins
Drive into Lot 4F.
In response to a question posed by Commissioner Young, City
Engineer Whisker related that the sidewalk plan would extend
parallel with Main Street. He then noted that there would be
additional drainage concerns that would be addressed by the
developer of Lot 3F. He then answered that the west side of Lot
3F would be finished with curb and gutter. He then answered that
curb and gutter would be established throughout the development
along with landscaping by the developers of the various lots.
Mr. Brown related that the primary improvements would begin
immediately; adding that the sidewalks would be established as
the lots develop to ensure proper grades, adding that closed curb
cuts would be part of each site development.
Commissioner Young moved, seconded by Commissioner Keaton to
approve the Final Plat of Dawkins Commercial Addition Lots 1F,
2F, & 3F stipulating shared center lot line access from Main
Street. MOTION CARRIED.
c. FINAL PLAT Clover Ridge Subdivision Tract “C”
Mr. Tommy Bond related that the final plat has been reviewed by
the Jacksonville Wastewater Commission and that he believes all
issues have been resolved, adding that City Engineer Whisker may
have one issue to address.
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CITY OF JACKSONVILLE, ARKANSAS
REGULAR PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING
SEPTEMBER 13, 2004
7:00 P.M. – 8:40 P.M.
City Engineer Whisker related that he has requested sidewalks be
established on Cloverdale Road since it leads to Homer Adkins
School along with curb and gutter. He then noted that the
Wastewater Department has agreed to construct sidewalks regarding
their lots, adding that he would require lots 1-7 to also
construct sidewalks. He added that the area would need curb and
gutter.
In response to a question posed by Vice Chairman Stroud, Mr. Bond
related that the lot lines reflect the established homes of the
Subdivision.
Mr. Tommy Dupree related that all properties within the
Subdivision have been sold, adding that he is not sure if the
property owners can afford to construct sidewalks. He added that
when the Subdivision was originally presented there was not a
requirement for sidewalks or curb. He noted that it would be an
appropriate project for the CDBG Department.
In response to a question posed by Commissioner Dollar, Mr.
Dupree answered that the estimated cost of sidewalks is $250.00
per square foot.
City Engineer Whisker noted that as a collector street, a 5’
sidewalk would be required.
In response to a question posed by Vice Chairman Stroud, Mr.
Dupree stated that ownership of lots 1-7 is in the name of the
Estate. He added that those lots were sold individually on
contract a long time ago. He then agreed with Vice Chairman
Stroud’s observation that the individuals may qualify for CDBG
grant funding.
City Engineer Whisker related that it would cost approximately
$12,000.00 to establish sidewalks for the seven lots.
City Attorney Bamburg clarified that the area could only qualify
for CDBG funding if it is identified as a low to moderate-income
area.
Commissioner Dollar then moved to approve the Final Plat of the
Clover Ridge Subdivision Tract “C” with the inclusion of
sidewalks as specified.
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CITY OF JACKSONVILLE, ARKANSAS
REGULAR PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING
SEPTEMBER 13, 2004
7:00 P.M. – 8:40 P.M.
Commissioner Dollar added that while she is sympathetic to any
hardship regarding the establishment of sidewalks, she also feels
there is a need for sidewalks in the area as well as being a
current development requirement.
Commissioner Young noted that it is not the general practice of
the Planning Commission to waive sidewalk requirements, adding
that he also is sympathetic to the plight of the residents.
Commissioner Lester noted that the property was originally
approved under a different set of requirements.
Vice Chairman Stroud asked for a second to the motion before
further discussion.
Commissioner Keaton seconded the motion.
Vice Chairman Stroud noted that many regulations have changed
since the item had been approved.
Commissioner Lester questioned if consistency is being observed,
offering that sidewalks were not always required given earlier
developments.
It was noted that the City Council has overturned one sidewalk
waiver from the Planning Commission, which resulted in a court
case.
In response to a question posed by Commissioner Traylor, Mr. Bond
related that there is over 400’ from lot 7 to Hwy 161 and over
half a mile from lot 1 to Homer Adkins Elementary School.
City Engineer Whisker then answered that sidewalks would be
established from lot 7 and lot 1 to both Hwy 161 and Homer Adkins
Elementary School. He then noted that the City established
sidewalks along Madden Road, which had not developed with
sidewalks because it was between two schools. He noted the
importance of sidewalks especially in areas without curb in
gutter, noting that it forces pedestrians to walk in the street.
Commissioner Lester stated that he did not feel comfortable
placing a financial burden on residents not able to construct
sidewalks.
Commissioner Dollar asked that the Planning Commission research
if money would be available to those residents through CDBG.
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CITY OF JACKSONVILLE, ARKANSAS
REGULAR PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING
SEPTEMBER 13, 2004
7:00 P.M. – 8:40 P.M.
City Attorney Bamburg clarified that while grant money may be
available for individual property owners, right now, the property
is held in the name of the Estate and it would be his guess that
the Estate would not qualify for CDBG funds. He went on to say
that if the geographic area is identified as a low to moderate
income area under HUD standards, then funds could be available.
He then added that he is not aware of what funds the Director of
CDBG has designated for that type of expenditure.
Commissioner Dollar reaffirmed support of her earlier motion.
Discussion ensued regarding circumstances surrounding the
Collenwood Subdivision where the Planning Commission had declined
to have the developer establish sidewalks in Phase II, since
Phase I was not required to have sidewalks prior to the
requirement being established as part of the development Code and
the subsequent court litigation.
Vice Chairman Stroud restated the motion to approve the final
plat with sidewalks.
ROLL CALL: Commissioners Dollar, Young, and Keaton voted AYE.
Commissioners Lester and Traylor voted NAY. MOTION CARRIED.
d. FINAL PLAT Eastview Addition PH VI Lots 9 – 14
Mr. Tommy Bond related that the Subdivision was started
approximately twenty years ago, adding that recently the street
has been paved and the sidewalk constructed. He added that the
utilities were accepted in 1994.
Commissioner Lester moved, seconded by Commissioner Dollar to
approve the Final Plat of the Eastview Addition PH VI Lots 9-14.
MOTION CARRIED.
e. REPLAT Part of Tract “A” West Jacksonville Subdivision No. 1
Mr. Tommy Bond related that the property is Walgreens on Main
Street. He added that this was the last step before being issued
a certificate of occupancy. He related that the project is
completed including the storm drainage and that the landscaping
has been established.
City Engineer Whisker noted that the sidewalks with handicap
ramps have been constructed and completed.
Commissioner Young moved, seconded by Commissioner Keaton to
approve the Replat of Tract “A” West Jacksonville Subdivision No.
1. MOTION CARRIED.
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CITY OF JACKSONVILLE, ARKANSAS
REGULAR PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING
SEPTEMBER 13, 2004
7:00 P.M. – 8:40 P.M.
GENERAL: Commissioner Dollar announced that Metroplan is
performing a major update of the Regional Transportation Plan and
th
will be hosting a workshop Wednesday October 27 around 12:00
p.m. at the Jacksonville Community Center.
ADJOURNMENT: Without objection, Vice Chairman Stroud adjourned
the meeting at approximately 8:40 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
_________________________
Susan L. Davitt
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