16 JAN 11
CITY OF JACKSONVILLE, ARKANSAS
REGULAR PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING
JANUARY 11, 2016
7:00 P.M. – 8:47 P.M.
OPENING REMARKS:
The Planning Commission of the City of Jacksonville, Arkansas met in
regular session on January 11, 2016. Chairman Moore opened the
meeting at approximately 7:00 p.m. expressing appreciation to those in
attendance.
ROLL CALL: Commissioners Patrick Thomas, Jim Peacock, Jr., Scott
Scholl, Joe Cummings, Jr., Rick White, Robert Price, and Virgil Healey
answered ROLL CALL. Chairman Moore also answered roll call and
declared a quorum. PRESENT (8), ABSENT (1).
Others present for the meeting were City Engineer Jay Whisker, Jody
Urqhart, Joan Zumwalt, Tommy Bond, Pat Bond, Annabelle and John Davis,
Keith Webber, Art and Rosalie Brannen, Geneva Healey, Alderman Reedie
Ray, Alderman Kenny Elliott, Bart Gray, numerous Foxwood residents,
interested citizens, petitioners, and press.
CORRECTION AND/OR APPROVAL OF MINUTES:
Commissioner White moved, seconded by Commissioner Peacock to approve
the minutes of the December 14, 2015 regularly scheduled meeting as
presented. MOTION CARRIED.
PUBLIC HEARING(S): DEVIATION IN AGENDA
c. REZONING a portion of Southern Oaks Country Club to R-3
Chairman Moore opened the public hearing at approximately 7:02 p.m.
Mr. Tommy Bond addressed the Commission explaining that the rezoning
consists of approximately 12.14 acres on the northern limits of the
Southern Oaks Country Club Golf Course. He explained that the
proposal is to rezone the property for apartments, saying that they
are proposing to construct between 50 to 88 units. He then explained
that the sole purpose of the proposal is to keep the Country Club
viable. He related that the tenants of the apartments would be
members of the Country Club and that their membership dues would be
built into the monthly rental fee. He stated that the complex is being
designed and priced to appeal to retirees that could afford to pay
higher rental fees regarding the amenities of a swimming pool and golf
course. He emphasized that it is a planned retirement community,
developed strictly for retirees. He stated that it would strengthen
the Country Club to have 88 additional members, adding that the
complex would be operated in conjunction with the Club. He noted that
part of the property being proposed for rezoning is in the floodway
and flood plain. He showed three examples of high-end apartment
complexes in Little Rock, North Little Rock, and Maumelle, saying that
the proposed apartments would be modeled similar to those. He stated
that it would be one and two bedroom three-story apartments with
garages and/or carports renting between $800.00 and $1,200.00 monthly.
He then stated that the construction of the apartments would have
little or no impact on the golf course.
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CITY OF JACKSONVILLE, ARKANSAS
REGULAR PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING
JANUARY 11, 2016
7:00 P.M. – 8:47 P.M.
City Engineer Whisker demonstrated on PowerPoint the location of the
floodway, noting that it is approximately 300’ wide. He noted the
flood plain area saying that it would take 4 to 6’ of fill to obtain a
LOMR (Letter of Map Revision) bringing the elevation up to 260. He
reviewed the zoning map noting that the Southern Oaks Country Club and
Golf Course are currently zoned C-1.
Chairman Moore opened the floor for public comment.
John Davis stated that he is a Foxwood resident and a member of the
Country Club and is very golf course pro. He mentioned that the
proposed plan looks as though it will run through two of the fairways.
He issued concerns for the golf course regarding the development.
Diane Maze of 704 Foxwood stated that she lives directly across from
the Southern Oaks Country Club, questioned if the rezoning would
affect two vacant lots in the older part of the Foxwood Subdivision
along with citing concerns for the flood zone. She stated that her
house is at a 1% chance of flooding, questioning if the development
would affect her flood rating and increase the amount she pays for her
flood insurance. She further issued concerns for her property values
and stated that to her knowledge FEMA has not been contacted so the
developer does not have approval for this proposed development. She
then reiterated her concerns regarding water displacement and area
flooding, questioning how close to the Creek the development is being
proposed.
City Engineer Whisker explained that the proposed rezoning area is
located on the north side of the Creek on the northern boundary of the
Country Club.
Mr. Bond replied that the development would be at least 250’ from the
Creek, explaining that they would have to bring in fill to the area
located in the flood plain and that FEMA would have to be notified.
He related that letters of “No Rise” would have to be issued to the
adjoining property owners. He then offered that one option would be
to build the complex with a parking garage underneath the apartments.
City Engineer Whisker noted that the proposed access to the
development is on the west side of the swimming pool area. He
detailed the access, showing that it would cross the floodway.
Dan Brown addressed the Commission saying that he is not yet a
resident of Foxwood but is about to close on a house in Foxwood that
backs up to the golf course. He explained that he and his wife are
retired and Jacksonville was there area of choice when returning to
the State. He stated that he bought the house with the understanding
that Foxwood Subdivision was a single-family subdivision. He
questioned how this proposed development would benefit the residents
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CITY OF JACKSONVILLE, ARKANSAS
REGULAR PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING
JANUARY 11, 2016
7:00 P.M. – 8:47 P.M.
of Foxwood, adding that he can only see how it would benefit the
Country Club. He stated that he does not understand how a multi-family
development in the middle of a single-family subdivision would benefit
the residents. He stated that he would like to have an answer to that
question.
City Engineer Whisker fielded the question, answering that it would
depend on many factors, such as the type of plans for development. He
stated that there is no definitive answer, but there are circumstances
where a complex could be good for the overall health of the
residential community. He stated that it could positively, as well as
negatively affect the property values, reiterating that it all depends
on the planning.
It was then explained that the Planning Commission would decide on the
issue of rezoning and if it were approved it would be forwarded to the
City Council for final action.
Mr. Brown stated that he would like to go on record as adamantly
opposing an apartment complex being built in his neighborhood when no
one can tell him how it will affect his property values.
Amanda Brewer of 705 Foxwood stated that she supports the development.
She stated that she made a choice to live in Jacksonville, moving her
family here from Cabot. She stated that Foxwood does not have a HOA to
support the Country Club, so she is in favor of supporting a high-end
retirement complex. She related that she has a background in finance
and her studies show that Jacksonville is 50% transient. She added
that without other means there is no way for the Foxwood Subdivision
to have security to protect the neighborhood or keep the Country Club
open. She stated that she is going to stay in Jacksonville no matter
what the Commission decides to do, but hates to see another
neighborhood failing. She stated that this would be a high-end
development and it is important to the Foxwood Subdivision.
Buster Smith of 13 Foxboro Cove related that he is retired from the
Army and from real estate. He stated that he is in support of a high-
end retirement development because property values will go down
without the Country Club.
Jody Urqhart of 17 Vixen Trail stated that Jacksonville has struggled
for many reasons, and there is no definite answer regarding the
development. He issued concerns about a bill of assurance, saying
that no one can say for sure how it will affect the property values.
It could hurt the property values a little or even more. He
questioned how you could guarantee it would be a high-end development
strictly for the elderly. He noted that if the complex has three
stories will the elderly have to climb three flights of stairs or will
there be an elevator. He then noted that it would take a letter of
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CITY OF JACKSONVILLE, ARKANSAS
REGULAR PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING
JANUARY 11, 2016
7:00 P.M. – 8:47 P.M.
map revision to get part of the property out of the flood plain. He
stated that 88 units is a lot to say that it will not have a great
impact on the golf course; however, it will have an impact on the
neighborhood.
David Williams of 2 Foxhunt Cove related his experience with rental
property, questioning what guarantees there are that the property in
later years would not become Section 8 housing as it falls into
disrepair. He questioned if there could be any guarantees that it
would remain high-end.
Sharon Green 702 Foxwood Drive stated that she is a 30-year Foxwood
resident, questioning if a traffic study had been done. She cited
concerns for the traffic and the driveway access to the proposed
apartments. She stated that if this development were allowed to be
built, Foxwood would not be a quiet community any longer. She stated
that if there were improvements to the pool and Club’s restaurant more
people would join. She stated that 88 units is not a small amount.
Charlie Whited stated that he is not a Foxwood resident but he is a
member of the Southern Oaks Country Club and is generally on the golf
course six day a week. He reiterated concerns for the apartments
remaining a high-end development, acknowledging that he can understand
the importance to the health of the Club and golf course. He then
issued concerns regarding the proposed plans affecting the golf barn,
the maintenance building along with the driving range.
Mr. Bond stated that there is plenty of room to relocate the driving
range as well the other buildings. He then noted that it would
shorten the #4 hole on the golf course. He stated that flooding
issues would be addressed in the design of the facility, reiterating
that the only reason to build the complex is to financially support
the Country Club. He stated that as far as concerns regarding it
becoming Section 8 housing it would not be in the affordable range for
that to happen. He stated that the owners are not going to invest
millions of dollars and have it fall into disrepair and become
anything less than high-end. He reiterated that the plan is to develop
high-end retirement units that would be attracted to that type of
living. He reiterated that the flooding would be addressed in the
design and there will have to be a “no rise” letter, which states that
the development will not impact adjoining properties. He reiterated
that the only reason for building the apartments is to financially
support the Club; it is not a money scheme by the current owners who
rescued the Club through their financial support. He stated that
there are two owners, Mr. Harold Gwatney and Ms. Joan Zumwalt, who
have been a part of the Jacksonville business community for 40 plus
years. He stated that the rent would be from $800.00 to $1,200.00
monthly.
With no one else to speak, Chairman Moore closed the public hearing at
approximately 7:42 p.m.
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CITY OF JACKSONVILLE, ARKANSAS
REGULAR PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING
JANUARY 11, 2016
7:00 P.M. – 8:47 P.M.
Commissioner Price noted that in Mr. Bond’s letter to the Commission
it states, “a portion of the vacant property is part of the Holland
Bottoms Wild Life Management area”.
Mr. Bond explained that the proposed development property adjoins a
portion of the Holland Bottoms property.
Commissioner White concurred with City Engineer Whisker that the
proposed egress in the area by the pool would continue going across
the floodway to the development site. He asked City Engineer Whisker
if it is correct that nothing could be built within the floodway.
City Engineer Whisker concurred, saying that nothing could be built
without extensive study, the floodway cannot change, the only thing
you can do to a floodway is remove material not add to it. He cited
that if an 8” concrete base were established for a roadway or
driveway, you would have to remove the top 8” of soil and then
construct the roadway in that exact same spot to get a “no rise”
certificate.
Commissioner White questioned if the egress would have to be an
elevated roadway surface in order to go across the floodway.
City Engineer Whisker stated that there is a pipe that crosses in that
area, so the egress would also have to cross in that same location.
Mr. Bond clarified that the area being proposed to being built up is
north of the ditch, which is north of the floodway. He then answered
Commissioner White that the apartments have not been quantified
strictly to any one age group. He added that his perception is that
the amount of rent would be more directed at someone 50 plus years old
or even 60 year olds. He stated that Jacksonville has lost a lot of
that group in other areas because Jacksonville did not have anything
like this for that demographic. He stated that this would appeal to
retired military people who would stay in Jacksonville. He stated
that the closest house to one of the structures would be approximately
400 feet.
Commissioner Price questioned if there had been any kind of market
analysis performed, ensuring that they would be in demand.
Mr. Bond stated that more of this was financial support for the Club
as the aim of the project. He related that before the project is
started, a market analysis would be required.
Commission Price stated that he is not sure what the “fill rate” is
for apartments in Jacksonville, guessing that people are not standing
in line.
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CITY OF JACKSONVILLE, ARKANSAS
REGULAR PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING
JANUARY 11, 2016
7:00 P.M. – 8:47 P.M.
Mr. Bond stated that of the three apartment complexes he contacted
there was no vacancy and limited vacancy. He added that those high-
end complexes, although Maumelle and Little Rock are different from
Jacksonville, are well occupied.
In response to a question from Commissioner Thomas, Mr. Bond stated
that the swimming pool was open this past summer.
City Engineer Whisker added there was some reconstruction done at the
beginning of the summer but the pool opened later in the season.
Commissioner Thomas then questioned what considerations are being
given to pass the traffic through the pool parking lot regarding
safety of the pool patrons.
Mr. Bond stated that there is an option to have it on the east side of
the building through the pro-shop parking area. He then noted that
the pool is fenced and the children are not in the parking area other
than going from their car to the pool.
Commissioner Thomas stated that it sounds as if street traffic is
being run through a parking lot where children might be going through,
adding that it is a safety issue. He then questioned if there is a
bill of assurance on the existing properties.
Mr. Bond responded that there is no bill of assurance on the golf
course property. He then stated that the residential area does have a
bill of assurance. He then answered that there is no stipulation that
the subdivision is to remain an R-1 subdivision regarding the golf
course. He stated that the golf course was never subdivided or
recorded as part of the Foxwood Subdivision.
Commissioner Thomas related that property values are a concern for the
residents, pointing out that if the development is a success then he
would expect property values would increase and consequently, if it
fails it would also adversely affect property values. He related that
he feels this brings it back to a marketing issue. He stated that
since the Subdivision lots are to remain R-1, he feels anyone living
in the Foxwood Subdivision would rightfully have the expectation that
all the property would be R-1 and that all traffic would only be that
of R-1 property.
Mr. Bond reiterated that the golf course was never part of the Foxwood
Subdivision development.
Commissioner Thomas stated that the traffic from the potential
development would now be R-3 occupants.
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CITY OF JACKSONVILLE, ARKANSAS
REGULAR PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING
JANUARY 11, 2016
7:00 P.M. – 8:47 P.M.
Mr. Bond stated that since it is a retirement community, he does not
believe that 88 units would generate that much activity.
Commissioner Thomas stated that there is concern about the homeowner’s
bill of assurance that he shares with them. He questioned at what
point the letter of “No Rise” would be available.
Mr. Bond stated that it would be after the design of the complex.
Commissioner Thomas questioned what the expected rise of a 100-year
flood across the passageway would be.
City Engineer Whisker stated that it would be 258 for a 100-year flood
event, explaining that they calculated the flood height average with
the pipe that is already in the ground. He then answered that the
current elevation of the passageway is 252 or 254.
Commissioner Thomas stated that it would have to be raised to get to
the EFE for safe passage.
City Engineer Whisker added unless there is a study, there is no dirt
allowed in the floodway area. He continued saying if you are asking
if it would have to be raised so that they could get through a 258
flood, then a study would have to be done regarding a bridge to go
over the crossway or completely go over the floodway at an elevation
of 258 for the passage of all the water.
Commissioner Thomas stated that he would foresee a bridge, knowing
that no fill can go into that area.
Mr. Bond stated that he believes the area where the pipe is located,
is already elevated to 256 or 257. He added that a study would have
to show “no rise”.
Commissioner Thomas clarified with Mr. Bond that it could be added to,
if it did not produce a rise.
Mr. Bond stated that it would depend on how it is configured.
Commissioner Thomas stated that he is not sure if there is a legal
limitation on how much you can rise, but he would expect a rise if
something is being added.
Mr. Bond stated that one thing that would offset that would be to
create a low place to absorb the rise.
Commission Thomas confirmed with City Engineer Whisker that the
current zoning of the property is R-0 single-family and R-3 is the
requested zoning to accommodate the development of multi-family. He
then questioned how much of a rise in the flood plain is being
proposed to get above the EFE.
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CITY OF JACKSONVILLE, ARKANSAS
REGULAR PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING
JANUARY 11, 2016
7:00 P.M. – 8:47 P.M.
Mr. Bond responded that City Engineer Whisker had stated that it would
be 6 to 7 feet.
Commissioner Thomas questioned if part of the footprint of the
building would be in the flood plain and the floodway.
Mr. Bond responded that nothing would be developed in the floodway,
only in the flood plain. He then concurred that the southeast corner
of the property is in the floodway and that the building would be in
the flood plain.
Commissioner Peacock questioned how emergency services would be
available to the development if there were a 100 or 500-year event.
Mr. Bond stated that one option is to build a bridge or to provide for
an area where the displaced water could be deposited.
Commissioner Peacock noted that there is a side entrance to his
subdivision that has had to be used several times during rain events.
He stressed the importance of a safe ingress and egress regarding
emergency services.
Mr. Bond stated that he felt an ingress and egress could be developed
to the west, adding there has been a substantial amount of fill placed
in the northwest corner of the golf course, which is well above the
EFE now. He related he feels it could be connected and create an
access into Northwood Acres.
Mr. Bond assured Commissioner Price that he did not foresee a problem
regarding the roads in Foxwood that would be used during construction
for heavy equipment. He stated that with all the construction
activity over the last 40 years there has been practically no
failures. He stated that the roads are limited to highway loads,
which have regularly passed through the area.
Commissioner White questioned who would be responsible for repairs to
the street if a failure did occur.
Mr. Bond stated that it could be an option to have the contractor bond
for repairs.
Commissioner Thomas clarified with Mr. Bond that one option was to
have a parking garage under the complex in order to get the building
above the EFE.
Chairman Moore expressed concern that eventually the complex could
turn into a less exclusive development, he then stated that an R-4
zoning for garden homes, townhouses, or condominiums might be more
appropriate to attract retirees without children or young
professionals.
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CITY OF JACKSONVILLE, ARKANSAS
REGULAR PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING
JANUARY 11, 2016
7:00 P.M. – 8:47 P.M.
Mr. Bond replied that an R-4 zoning was considered, noting that the
main issue is that it takes substantially more space, which would have
a greater impact on the golf course. He stated that part of the
concept was to impact the golf course as little as possible.
Chairman Moore stated that he understands that the golf course is very
important for the community; however, he is not in favor of more
multi-family housing in Jacksonville. He then added especially in a
subdivision like Foxwood. He stated that he would definitely fight it
if that were the case in Stonewall, saying that Foxwood and Stonewall
are two very important subdivisions in Jacksonville. He noted that
residents have put in a lot of money to live in Foxwood and he does
not think it would be beneficial to the golf course to develop
apartments. He stated that if part of the $800.00 a month rent goes
to the Club then it leaves very little to keep the maintenance up on
the complex.
Mr. Bond stated that when a developer invest this amount of money and
has a 15 or 20-year mortgage they would have a vested interest in
maintaining the facility to continue the return to pay the debt. He
added that he does not feel that maintenance would be an issue, adding
he feels the clientele would demand that they be properly maintained.
Chairman Moore noted that currently the driving range and the
maintenance-building flood badly, questioning where the “catch pond”
would be located.
Mr. Bond stated that the exact location has not been addressed yet,
adding that the maintenance people at the golf course want more ponds
regarding water for the summer to irrigate the golf course. He stated
that it would be a combination of a pond and a retention basin. He
then related that there is plenty of room for another pond.
Chairman Moore stated if that area is built up then the water could
run into the Country Club building as well as going into the housing
area that is close to the development even with catch ponds.
Mr. Bond assured Chairman Moore that it would be designed so that an
excavation that would hold an equal amount of volume in water would
offset any fill.
Discussion ensued and Mr. Bond related that there would be a 300 to
400 foot buffer between the other zones and the R-3 zoning. He then
agreed that screening the apartments is acceptable.
Commissioner Peacock questioned the feasibility of having a multi-
million dollar apartment development in the middle of a floodplain,
given that if the Country Club fails, that would be hard to market.
He noted that flood insurance would make the property too expensive to
be purchased by an investor.
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CITY OF JACKSONVILLE, ARKANSAS
REGULAR PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING
JANUARY 11, 2016
7:00 P.M. – 8:47 P.M.
Mr. Bond stated that firstly, they would do a letter of map amendment
so that the complex would be out of the flood plain and there would be
no issue with flood insurance. Mr. Bond then answered Commissioner
Thomas that the estimated rent would be between $800.00 and $1,200.00
monthly.
Commissioner Thomas questioned if there could be an assurance that the
rent would have a minimum by law.
Mr. Bond stated that he is not sure that is something that could be
guaranteed.
City Attorney Bamburg clarified that the answer is no.
Commissioner Price stated that there was a lot of information that
came out tonight but we do not have the answers, pointing out that it
has to do with the market analysis.
Commissioner Healey questioned why the study was not completed before
being brought to the Planning Commission. He stated that the study
would have provided the answer to many more questions.
Commissioner Price related that he feels and it seems most of the
members of the Commission feel that they need more information before
proceeding with a recommendation.
City Engineer Whisker paraphrased that the Commission is looking for a
market analysis, a study of the flood plain and floodway, and a
traffic study regarding Foxwood Drive and ingress and egress. He
stated that the Planning Commission would better be able to consider
the rezoning if those questions had answers.
Mr. Bond asked that the item be tabled pending further research to be
provided to the Planning Commission.
Commissioner Thomas moved, seconded by Commissioner Price to table the
rezoning of a portion of Southern Oaks Country Club property until
further notice from the petitioner. MOTION CARRIED.
RESUME AGENDA:
a. REZONING 405 James Street and 1016 School Drive C-2 to C-3
Chairman Moore opened the public hearing at approximately 8:17 p.m.
Petitioner representative, Mr. Bond pointed out that the property on
James Street is the mini-warehouses, explaining that that the School
Drive property is adjacent to the rear. He stated that Terry Bean the
owner of the mini-warehouses has a contract to purchase the
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CITY OF JACKSONVILLE, ARKANSAS
REGULAR PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING
JANUARY 11, 2016
7:00 P.M. – 8:47 P.M.
property on School Drive to expand his business. He stated that the
rezoning would bring the property into compliance with the property
zoning for mini-warehouses.
City Engineer Whisker demonstrated on PowerPoint the locations of both
properties. He noted that the current mini-warehouse property wraps
around the School Drive property. He stated that the rezoning would
correct the current zoning of C-2 for the existing mini-warehouses and
rezone the School Drive property regarding his expansion plans.
With no one to speak pro or con, Chairman Moore closed the public
hearing at approximately 8:19 p.m.
Commissioner Thomas confirmed with City Engineer Whisker and Mr. Bond
that the current zoning of the property is C-2 and the petitioner has
already closed on the property. He questioned if the current property
has a conditional use approval, why would they want to rezone if they
could get a conditional use.
Mr. Bond stated that if the newly acquired property were developed the
petitioner would have to come back, saying that they would prefer to
get the entire property zoned to proper zoning.
Commissioner Thomas stated that if they are going to develop the same
mini-warehouses, the Planning Commission could grant a conditional use
with the current zoning of C-2.
City Engineer Whisker explained that the problem would be that if
there were a change in ownership the new owner would have to come back
to the Planning Commission to get a new conditional use.
Commissioner Thomas questioned what assurance there would be that the
property would be limited to mini-warehouses if the zoning were
changed to C-3.
Mr. Bond stated that any development would have to come before the
Planning Commission with a site plan for approval.
City Engineer Whisker demonstrated on PowerPoint that some of the
surrounding property is zoned C-4 and R-3.
Chairman Moore pointed out that the current zoning for the property on
School Drive is C-1.
Commissioner White moved, seconded by Commissioner Peacock to approve
the rezoning of property located at 405 James Street and 1016 School
Drive to C-3. MOTION CARRIED.
b. CONDITIONAL USE 1106 South Redmond Road
Chairman Moore opened the public hearing at approximately 8:24 p.m.
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CITY OF JACKSONVILLE, ARKANSAS
REGULAR PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING
JANUARY 11, 2016
7:00 P.M. – 8:47 P.M.
No one was present to represent the item of business.
Chairman Moore closed the public hearing at approximately 8:25 p.m.
REQUEST TO APPROVE PLAT(S): a. PRELIMINARY PLAT Graham Woods
Subdivision PH I-Board Lots 12-15 and 28-46
Mr. Bond related that the Planning Commission had previously approved
the subdivision six or eight years ago, explaining that PH I was
finally completed, noting delays due to the widening of Graham Road.
He stated that the developer is now ready to begin with PH I-B, which
is the next group of lots to the immediate west of PH I.
City Engineer Whisker stated that phase I-B consist of Lots 12-F
through 15-F and 28-F through 46-F. He stated that this is a
continuation of the project regarding water and wastewater. He noted
that between the two streets there is a concrete ditch that comes out
of the south side in-between the Sunnyside Addition and the
subdivisions to the east, there will be an easement for that area.
Chairman Moore requested clarification regarding the lot numbering and
phase numbering.
City Engineer Whisker stated that if the numbering on the preliminary
plat is different from the final plat for phase I then the numbering
would have to be changed so that the numbering scheme is consistent
and available to go with the remaining two phases.
Mr. Bond stated that as the final plats are recorded the numbering is
cleaned up, adding that he would go ahead and clean up the lot
numbering before continuing construction. He related that the gas
pipeline is further east, next to Phase I. He went on to say that
there is a concrete ditch that was built by the City back in the 70’s
and an easement was given to the City.
Chairman Moore noted an area that is in the flood plain.
Mr. Bond responded that the lots in the flood plain have an F
designation. He explained that the lots will be filled and taken out
of the flood plain with a letter of map amendment but they will still
carry the F designation.
Commissioner Healey moved, seconded by Commissioner White to approve
the Preliminary Plat of Graham Woods Subdivision PH I-Board contingent
up the lot and phase numbering being consistent and cleaned up. MOTION
CARRIED.
b. PRELIMINARY PLAT and FINAL PLAT Pulaski Industrial Park Lot 1
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CITY OF JACKSONVILLE, ARKANSAS
REGULAR PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING
JANUARY 11, 2016
7:00 P.M. – 8:47 P.M.
Mr. Bond stated that this is a 4-acre tract of property the Chamber
Foundation owns and is being sold, adding that the bill of assurance
was provided. He stated that the City is selling the property for
business to locate there, adding that the utilities are already in and
the street was constructed five years ago.
City Engineer Whisker stated that the property is owned by the City,
adding that even if approved by the Planning Commission, the City
Council will still have to approve the sale of the land. He stated
that this is to section the property off from a larger 40-acre tract.
He stated that the property is south of General Samuels and west of
Commerce Drive.
Commissioner Thomas moved, seconded by Commissioner Cummings to
approve the Preliminary Plat of Pulaski Industrial Park Lot 1. MOTION
CARRIED.
Commissioner White moved, seconded by Commissioner Cummings to approve
the Final Plat of Pulaski Industrial Park Lot 1. MOTION CARRIED.
c. FINAL PLAT Lemac Subdivision
Mr. Bond stated that Lemac is a 13-lot subdivision, noting that the
Planning Commission first approved it three years ago. He related
that the street was already built; the developer had to put in water
and sewer, which was completed approximately 2 months ago. He added
that the appropriate Commissions have accepted the water and sewer.
City Engineer Whisker stated that the property was originally zoned
for mobile homes and then proposed as a mobile home subdivision and is
now being proposed for single-family houses.
Mr. Bond added that the bill of assurance stipulates 1100 square foot
homes.
Chairman Moore questioned the zoning of the corner lot to Stanphill
and Lemac Drive. He stated that the zoning map states that those two
corner lots are R-3.
City Engineer Whisker stated that the zoning is single-family and he
would correct the zoning map.
Chairman Moore noted that lots 11 and 12 appear to be adjacent to a
natural gas line easement.
Mr. Bond stated that he believes it is lots 12 and 13 that are
adjacent to the easement, saying that during the course of submitting
13
CITY OF JACKSONVILLE, ARKANSAS
REGULAR PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING
JANUARY 11, 2016
7:00 P.M. – 8:47 P.M.
the plan to the Planning Commission, there is a parcel to the north
that is land locked so part of the deal was to provide a 50’ right-of-
way to get to that piece of land. He then explained that the 50’
right-of-way is adjacent to the gas easement.
Chairman Moore stated that if the easement is accepted as a street
right-of-way then the City would be responsible for maintaining that
area.
City Engineer Whisker explained that when Growing Pines PH II to north
was finished they ended up with a section that they did not do to the
east that is even with Lot 13 all the way north on the gas line. They
chose to keep the property as an unplatted area. He stated that when
it came before the Planning Commission it was decided that access to
the property would be provided but nothing would be constructed.
Discussion ensued and City Attorney Bamburg clarified that the
property would remain undeveloped until some development behind the
property takes place. He stated that they will not do anything to
further develop that property.
Mr. Bond stated that the purpose is to keep those parcels from being
totally land locked. He stated that when the final plat is recorded it
would be recorded as a public right-of-way.
City Engineer Whisker stated that the City does not have any plans to
develop the street.
City Attorney Bamburg stated that as a street right-of-way it is
common for the adjoining property owners to mow the area, but if not
then the City would be responsible for keeping the property mowed.
Chairman Moore noted that there is a storm drain around lots 6 and 7
and a catch pond across the street, questioning if it would be a
problem if the City has to replace the pipe.
Mr. Bond clarified that there is no pipe going under the property.
In response to a question from Commissioner Thomas, City Engineer
Whisker stated that as he recalled the property was rezoned to R-1A,
which is 50’ X 100’. He related that he would double check the zoning
status and correct the zoning map.
Commissioner White moved, seconded by Commissioner Thomas to approve
the Final Plat of Lemac Subdivision as requested. MOTION CARRIED.
BUILDING PERMIT(S):
14
CITY OF JACKSONVILLE, ARKANSAS
REGULAR PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING
JANUARY 11, 2016
7:00 P.M. – 8:47 P.M.
GENERAL: DEVIATION IN AGENDA Nomination of 2016 Planning Commission
officers and Board of Adjustment volunteers
Commissioner Price moved, seconded by Commissioner Healey to nominate
Jim Moore to continue to serve as Planning Commission Chairman and
Rick White to continue to serve as Planning Commission Vice Chairman
and Board of Adjustment Chairman. MOTION CARRIED.
Commissioners Virgil Healey and Scott Scholl volunteered to continue
to serve as members of the Board of Adjustment serving from the
Planning Commission.
ANNOUNCEMENT:
ADJOURNMENT: Chairman Moore without objection, adjourned the meeting
at approximately 8:47 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
_________________________
Susan L. Davitt
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