Posts in Planning and Zoning Minutes

North Liberty Planning Commission
Minutes
April 3, 2012

Roll Call
At 6:30 p.m., Chairman Bill Mausser called the April 3, 2012 Regular Session of the North Liberty Planning Commission to order. Commission members present: Anderson, Covert, Detlefsen, Frost, Haack, Mausser, Moore.
Others present: Dean Wheatley, Kevin Trom, Scott Peterson, Tracey Mulcahey, Erika Harper, Mike Evans and other interested parties.

Agenda Approval
Moore moved, Frost seconded to approve the agenda. The vote was: ayes – Frost, Mausser, Covert, Haack, Moore, Detlefsen, Anderson; nays – none. Motion carried.

Public Comment
No public comment was offered.

Premier Portable Building Conditional Use Request
Staff Presentation
Wheatley presented the request of Premier Portable Building to approve a request for outside display and storage at 600 Westwood Drive, located at the northwest corner of Westwood Drive and Highway 965 (Liberty Motors).
Staff recommends approval of the conditional use application subject to the following:
1. The display is limited to 3 buildings no larger than 200 square feet each.
2. All storage buildings are located out of the required yard setbacks and located specifically at those positions shown on the site plan.
3. No banners or other temporary signage is allowed to advertise the buildings. Signage sizing shall be restricted by the requirements of the commercial site and may include painted board or other display attached to the side of one structure (not painted) if adequate size is available at the site.
4. The display is subject to ongoing review by City staff, and that if any buildings or the overall site fall into disrepair, the conditional use permit may be withdrawn or discontinued by the Board.
Applicant’s Presentation
The applicant was not present.
Public Comments
No comments from the public were presented.
Questions and Comments of the Commission
The Commission discussed feedback on proposed recommendations, neighbor input, the arrangement with the property owner for the sale of the buildings, how other situations like this are handled and the seasonality of the display.
Recommendation to Board of Adjustment
Moore moved, Haack seconded to recommend approval of the Conditional Use Application to the Board of Adjustment with the following conditions:
1. The display is limited to 3 buildings no larger than 200 square feet each.
2. All storage buildings are located out of the required yard setbacks and located specifically at those positions shown on the site plan.
3. No banners or other temporary signage is allowed to advertise the buildings. Signage sizing shall be restricted by the requirements of the commercial site and may include painted board or other display attached to the side of one structure (not painted) if adequate size is available at the site.
4. The display is subject to ongoing review by City staff, and that if any buildings or the overall site fall into disrepair, the conditional use permit may be withdrawn or discontinued by the Board.
5. The display is to be located on a hard surface, either the existing parking lot or additional new hard surfaces.
The vote was: ayes – Mausser, Covert, Haack, Moore, Detlefsen, Anderson, Frost; nays – none.
Motion carried.

Cedar Vista Residential Site Plan
Staff Presentation
Wheatley presented the request of Grand Rail Development to approve a multi-family site plan for property generally located north of the pond at Cedar Springs Drive and Silver Maple Trail. The development will consist of two 4- plexes, one 3- plex, and two duplexes. Staff recommends approval of the site plan with encouragement to the developer to consider the addition of masonry areas to the building rears.
Commissioner Anderson reported that he facilitated a neighborhood meeting on this matter. About sixty people were in attendance and asked lots of questions. Anderson will be abstaining from the vote tonight. He requested two recommendations if the Commission approves this application,
1.The addition of masonry on the facades of the buildings that face the streets and
2. Splits in the rooflines on the multi-plex buildings. The developer/applicant responded to these two recommendations. He would prefer to add additional landscaping in lieu of additional masonry. With the grade, elevations, and design, masonry will be difficult to make look decent. The buildings have splits as suggested.
Applicant’s Presentation
Evans presented the plan for the development. He answered questions from the commission on windows on the end of the building, landscaping vs. additional masonry, water runoff concerns, and accessory parking for guests.
Public Comments
No one from the public commented on this application.
Questions and Comments of the Commission.
The Commission discussed dividing the guest parking into two areas and requiring sidewalks on
both sides of the private driveway. Staff indicated that the grade and setbacks preclude moving the
buildings to divide the guest parking. One sidewalk is all that can be accommodated based on ADA
requirements. If the second sidewalk is installed, the driveway grades would be made significantly
steep to accommodate ADA requirements.
Recommendation to City Council
Haack moved, Detlefsen seconded to recommend approval of the residential development site plan application for Cedar Vista with a landscaping plan being submitted prior to Council approval instead of requiring additional masonry on the rear of the buildings. The vote was: ayes – Covert, Haack, Moore, Anderson, Frost, Mausser; nays – none; abstain – Detlefsen. Motion carried.

Approval of Previous Minutes
Moore moved, Haack seconded to approve the minutes of the March 6, 2012 Planning Commission meeting. The vote was all ayes. Minutes approved.

Cases Under Development
Wheatley reported that a new submission was received for the lot north of McDonalds. He is seeing lots of commercial interest in North Liberty right now and anticipates site plan applications to be forthcoming.

Adjournment
At 7:06 p.m., Moore moved, Haack seconded to adjourn. All ayes. Meeting adjourned.

Planning Commission
Minutes
March 6, 2012

Roll Call.
At 6:30 p.m., Chairman Mausser called the March 6, 2012 Planning Commission meeting to order.  Commission members present:  Anderson, Covert, Detlefsen, Frost, Mausser, Moore; absent – Haack.

Others present:  Dean Wheatley, Tracey Mulcahey, Scott Peterson, Erika Harper and other interested parties.

Agenda Approval.
Moore moved, Frost seconded to approve the agenda.  The vote was: ayes – Detlefsen, Mausser, Moore, Anderson, Frost, Covert; nays – none; absent – Haack. Motion carried.

Public comment on items not on the agenda.
No public comment was offered.

315 South Stewart Street Conditional Use Application.
Staff Presentation
Wheatley presented the request of Lisa Hills to approve a conditional use for a residential daycare at 315 South Stewart Street.  Wheatley asked for discussion later regarding increasing the number of children to 12 to comply with state code.

Staff recommends approval with the condition that the screening be installed for the play area to minimize impact on the neighbors.

Applicant’s Presentation
Lisa Hill presented her application for the Conditional Use for an in home daycare.  She will comply with any conditions requested.  .

Public Comments
No public comments were offered.

Questions and Comments from the Commission
The Commission discussed the screening requirement relating to covenants.

Recommendation to Board of Adjustment
Detlefsen moved, Moore seconded to recommend approval of the Conditional Use Application to the Board of Adjustment with the following condition:
The owner must provide, by no later than June 1 2012, required screening consisting of 6’ tall fencing or densely planted trees/shrubs that will grow to 6’ within 2 years of planting.
The vote was: ayes –Mausser, Moore, Anderson, Frost, Covert, Detlefsen; nays – none; absent – Haack. Motion carried.

1535 Deerfield Drive West Conditional Use Application.
Staff Presentation
Wheatley presented the request of Linda Vawter-Morgan to approve a conditional use for a residential daycare at 1535 Deerfield Drive West.  Staff recommends approval with the condition that the HVAC issue be remedied.

Applicant’s Presentation
Linda Vawter-Morgan presented her application for a conditional use for an in home daycare.  She stated that the HVAC issue has been completed.  She stated that her application meets all of the requirements.

Public Comments
No public comments were offered.

Questions and Comments from the Commission.
The Commission discussed the number of other childcare providers in the neighborhood and throughout town with conditional uses for daycares. Traffic issues on the street and parking were discussed.

Recommendation to Board of Adjustment
Detlefsen moved, Moore seconded to recommend approval of the Conditional Use Application to the Board of Adjustment with the following conditions:
1.    The building safety issue regarding heating and cooling vent termination to the garage needs to be completed and inspected by the City Building Department staff within 14 days of the conditional use approval by the Board of Adjustment.
2.    An annual review needs to be conducted to ensure that the garage is not being used as childcare space.
The vote was: ayes – Moore, Anderson, Frost, Covert, Detlefsen, Mausser; nays – none; absent – Haack. Motion carried.

Cedar Springs, Part Six, Lot 157 Final Plat.
Staff Presentation
Wheatley presented the request of Cedar Springs Partners LLC to approve a two-lot final plat for property located at the pond in the Cedar Lake development.  This is a replat of the  original pond lot in Cedar Springs.  With this plat, the pond goes to association for maintenance. The site plan for the developable lot may be on the April Commission agenda.   Staff recommends for approval with no conditions.

Applicant’s Presentation
Tom Lepic, one of the developers at Cedar Springs, presented information regarding the application for a final plat.
Public Comments
No public comments were offered.

Questions and Comments from the Commission
The Commission discussed the Homeowner’s Association, multifamily development on this lot, and association fees.

Recommendation to City Council
Moore moved, Detlefsen seconded to recommend approval of the Final Plat Application to the City Council with no conditions.  The vote was: ayes –Anderson, Frost, Covert, Detlefsen, Mausser, Moore; nays – none; absent – Haack. Motion carried.

Communication Towers and Antennas Ordinance Amendment.
Staff Presentation
Wheatley presented the Communication Towers and Antennas ordinance amendment. This is an update to the City’s current provisions for siting facilities.

Public Comments
No public comments were offered.

Questions and Comments from the Commission
Safety, who approves agreements,

Recommendation to City Council
Moore moved, Frost seconded to recommend approval of the Communication Towers and Antennas Ordinance to the City Council.  The vote was: ayes –Frost, Covert, Detlefsen, Mausser, Moore, Anderson; nays – none; absent – Haack. Motion carried.

Approval of Previous Minutes
Moore moved, Frost seconded to approve the minutes of the February 7, 2012 Planning Commission Meeting.  All ayes. Motion carried.

Old Business.
Wheatley reported that Casey’s had provided a revised site plan and revised building elevations, and has now heard the development is not moving forward.  He anticipates another proposal at another location.

New Business.
The Cedar Springs site plan application discussed tonight will likely be on the next agenda.

Adjournment.
At 7:17 p.m., Anderson moved, Moore seconded to adjourn. All ayes. Meeting adjourned.

North Liberty Planning Commission
Minutes
February 7, 2012

Roll Call
Chairman Bill Mausser called the North Liberty Planning Commission meeting to order at 6:30 p.m.  Commissioners present: Anderson, Covert, Detlefsen, Frost, Haack, Mausser, Moore.

Others present: Dean Wheatley, Tracey Mulcahey, Erika Harper, Carter Kurdlre and other interested parties.

Agenda Approval
Mausser moved, Frost seconded to approve the agenda. The vote was: ayes – Covert, Frost, Mausser, Detlefsen, Moore, Haack, Anderson; nays – none. Motion carried.

Public Comment
No public comment was offered.

Bluebird Café Conditional Use Application.
CONDITIONAL USE: Request of Thomas Connolly to approve a request for outside eating at Stonebridge Promenade, located at the northwest corner of Cherry Street and Highway 965, for the Bluebird Cafe.
(Legal: Lot 15, Liberty Centre Part 1)
Staff Presentation.
Wheatley presented the application for an outdoor eating request at Bluebird Café.  The proposal is for a small outdoor eating area with conditions as included in the staff report. If alcohol, lighting, or music is planned, those items will be handled by a separate agreement. Staff recommends approval of the application.

Applicants’ Presentation
A representative from Bluebird Café reported that the outdoor area is an extension of the café and dining area with ornamental grasses screening the area from the parking lot.

Public Comments
No public comments were offered.

Questions and Comments
Council discussed the proposed conditional use at the Bluebird Café.

Recommendation to Board of Adjustment.
Detlefsen moved, Haack seconded to recommend approval to the Board of Adjustment with the conditions contained in the staff memo.  The vote was: ayes – Detlefsen, Anderson, Haack, Moore, Mausser, Frost, Covert; nays – none. Motion carried.

Approval of Minutes
Haack moved, Detlefsen seconded to approve the minutes of the January 3, 2012 Planning Commission meeting.  All ayes. Motion carried.

Old Business
Wheatley reported that staff is working with Casey’s on a draft agreement.

New Business
March’s agenda has one final plat and two conditional uses for daycare.

Adjournment
At 6:36 p.m., Moore moved, Frost seconded to adjourn. All ayes. Meeting adjourned.

North Liberty Planning Commission
Minutes
January 3, 2012

Roll Call.
At 6:30 p.m., Chairman Mausser called the January 3, 2012 Regular Session of the North Liberty Planning Commission to order. Commission members present: Anderson, Covert, Detlefsen, Haack, Mausser, Moore; absent – Frost.
Others present: Ryan Heiar, Tracey Mulcahey, Scott Peterson, Kevin Trom, Dean Wheatley,
Erika Harper Carter Kurdlre, Brian Wayson, Tom Salm, Duane Musser, Dan Sweeting and other interested parties.

Agenda Approval.
Moore moved, Haack seconded to approve the agenda. The vote was: ayes – Mausser, Haack, Detlefsen, Covert, Moore, Anderson; nays – none; absent – Frost. Motion carried.
Public Comment On Items Not On The Agenda.
No public comment was offered.

Hidden Meadows Residential Site Plan.
Wheatley presented the request of Midwest Home Builders to approve a site plan for multifamily development on property located at the east end of existing Copeland Lane, east of Dubuque Street and north of Penn Street. Staff recommends approval with the following condition:
Prior to City Council action, enhance the design of the 4-plexes to include features such as building offsets, more pedestrian-scaled and private entrances, end wall windows, additional roof breaks, and different roof styles.
Duane Musser and Dan Sweeting made the Applicant’s Presentation. The developer offered to make improvements to the buildings as requested by the Commission prior to Council.
No public comments were offered relating to this item.
The Commission discussed the design of the buildings and offered suggestions. Moore moved, Haack seconded to recommend approval of the Residential Site Plan for Hidden Meadows Subdivision with the following conditions:
Addition of awning windows on ends, dormers on rear of buildings, and shutters on operating windows
The vote was: ayes – Haack, Detlefsen, Covert, Moore, Anderson, Mausser; nays – none; absent – Frost. Motion carried.

Liberty Medical and Commerce – Part Three Final Plat.
Wheatley presented the request of Dean R. Moore to approve a 4-lot final plat, Liberty Medical and Commerce – Part Three, for property generally located south of Penn Street and east of Cameron Way. Staff recommends approval.
Musser made the Applicant’s Presentation for the final plat. Applicant is looking at installing the public improvements as soon as possible due to interest in the property. No public comments were offered.
Moore moved, Detlefsen seconded to recommend approval of the Final Plat for Liberty Medical and Commerce – Part Three with no conditions. The vote was: ayes –Detlefsen, Covert, Moore, Anderson, Mausser, Haack; nays – none; absent – Frost. Motion carried.

Approval of Previous Minutes.
Haack moved, Anderson seconded to approve the minutes of the December 6, 2011 Regular Session of the North Liberty Planning Commission. All ayes. Motion carried.

Old Business.
Wheatley updated the Commission on Casey’s site plan. Additional materials were received today. In the preliminary review, it appears to be a substantially different design with features that more closely resemble the Veatch development.

New Business.
No new business or cases under development were presented.

Adjournment.
At 6:50 p.m., Haack moved, Moore seconded to adjourn. All ayes. Meeting adjourned.

PLANNING COMMISSION
Minutes
December 6, 2011

Roll Call.
At 6:30 p.m., Chairman Bill Mausser called the December 6, 2011 Regular Session of the North Liberty Planning Commission to order. Commission members present: Anderson, Covert, Detlefsen, Frost, Haack, Mausser, Moore.
Others present: Ryan Heiar, Dean Wheatley, Scott Peterson, Kevin Trom, Tracey Mulcahey, Erika Harper, and other interested parties.

Agenda Approval.
Moore moved, Anderson seconded to approve the agenda. The vote was: ayes – Mausser, Frost,
Detlefsen, Covert, Moore, Haack, Anderson; nays – none. Motion carried.
Public Comment On Items Not On The Agenda.
No public comment was offered.

Autumn Ridge Preliminary Plat.
Staff Presentation. Wheatley presented the request of Autumn Ridge Partners, LC to approve a revised preliminary plat for property generally located south of Zeller Street west of Front Street. Staff recommends approval of the preliminary plat application. Applicant’s Presentation. Glen Siders presented the revised preliminary plat application for Autumn Ridge subdivision.
Public Comments. None were offered.
Questions and Comments from the Commission. The Commission discussed the street removal that is required to amend the development from single family to duplex lots for utility connections.
Recommendation to City Council. Haack moved, Frost seconded to recommend approval of the Revised Autumn Ridge Preliminary Plat to the City Council with no conditions. The vote was: ayes – Frost, Anderson, Detlefsen, Haack, Covert, Mausser; nays –none; abstain – Moore.
Motion carried.

Liberty Medical and Commerce, Lot 3 Site Plan.
Staff Presentation. Wheatley presented the request of the Cameron Way Partners to approve a site plan for C-2-A PAD property located at the southeast corner of West Penn Street and Cameron Way. The development is a mixed use of residential and commercial development.
Staff recommends approval.
Applicant’s Presentation. Mike Bails, owner of the property, offered to answer any questions the Commission might have.
Public Comments. No public comments were offered.
Questions and Comments from the Commission. The Commission discussed the proposed density. Several commissioners expressed concern about the density. The Commission discussed the proposed use of the property as rentals and the need for rental units.
Recommendation to City Council. Moore moved, Detlefsen seconded to recommend approval of the application for a C-2-A PAD Site Plan for Lot 3, Liberty Medical and Commerce Addition with no conditions. The vote was: ayes – Moore, Detlefesen, Covert, Mausser; nays – Anderson, Haack, Frost. Motion carried.

Liberty Centre Part One, Lot 16 Commercial Development Site Plan.
Staff Presentation. Wheatley presented the request of the Casey’s Marketing Company to approve a commercial development site plan for new Casey’s Convenience Store located at the southwest corner of Highway 965 and Cherry Street. Staff recommends approval with conditions regarding sidewalks on the property. The developer can pay the $3,000 sidewalk fee up front or execute an assessment waiver for the sidewalk adjacent to Highway 965. A developer’s agreement that lays out expectations of loud speaker use on the property is being prepared.
Applicant’s Presentation. Ed Pelds, the project engineer, and Joan Dyer from Casey’s Corporate were present to present the project. Pelds stated that Casey’s does not want to provide stamped and stained sidewalks. He stated that the development across the street has standard concrete. The Cherry Street sidewalk will be installed with the development. The Highway 965 sidewalk could be installed at a later date. Installation with the development could result in maintenance issues with snow removal, for example.
Public Comments. No comments from the public were offered.
Questions and Comments of the Commission. The Commission discussed the drive alignment with the property to the north and the future development of the western portion of the property not included in this site plan application. The Commission discussed the various sidewalks on the plan. Wheatley stated that the stamped/colored concrete is a part of the effort to create a sense of place. The current developments have been required to soften up all of the concrete and lack of amenities through special touches like the colored concrete. The sidewalk shown as future on the plan was discussed. The suggestion was made to include the requirement in the developer’s agreement with a deadline. The Commission discussed the bike rack, dumpster and can shed. There was discussion on what happens with the old Casey’s building on Highway 965. The Commission discussed the weathering of the building and development and how advertising would be handled on the site. Discussion regarding tying the exterior of the new building to existing developments was had. Wheatley stated that the City does not have a policy requiring consistent materials and that this is probably not a reasonable expectation.
Recommendation to City Council. Detlefsen moved, Mausser seconded to recommend approval of the application for a Commercial Development Site Plan for Lot 16, Liberty Centre Part One with the following conditions:
1. Provide a sidewalk detail that includes stamping and colored concrete consistent with the colors and design of the building. This would include the sidewalk from Cherry Street to the sidewalk along the north side of the building, including crossing the loading area; and the sidewalk from Highway 965 to the sidewalk along the south side of the building, including crossing the area in front of the dumpster enclosure.
2. Requiring a security mechanism, like a bond for the proposed future sidewalk on the south side of the development.
After discussion, the vote was: ayes – Detlefesen, Mausser; nays – Anderson, Haack, Covert, Frost, Moore. Motion failed.
The Commission discussed the expectations of what should be in a site plan in the future at the proposed location. Concerns were expressed about the wear and tear of the use type. Ordinance Amendment.
Staff Presentation. Wheatley presented the staff-initiated updates, corrections and additions to the signs chapter of the
Zoning Ordinance.
Public Comments. No public comments were brought forward.
Questions and Comments of the Commission. The Commission discussed enforceability and height calculation.
Recommendation to City Council. Anderson moved, Moore seconded to recommend approval of the proposed ordinance amendment with no conditions. The vote was: ayes –Detlefesen, Haack, Covert, Mausser, Frost, Moore, Anderson; nays – none. Motion carried.

Approval of Previous Minutes.
Moore moved, Frost seconded to approve the Planning Commission minutes from the November 1, 2011 meeting. After discussion, the vote was: ayes – Haack, Covert, Mausser, Frost, Moore, Detlefsen; nays – none; abstain – Anderson. Motion carried.

Old Business.
No Old Business was presented.

New Business
Wheatley projects a short agenda in January.
Adjournment. At 7:45 p.m., Haack moved, Moore seconded to adjourn. All ayes. Meeting adjourned.

Planning and Zoning Commission
Minutes
November 22, 2011

Call to Order. At 6:00 p.m., Chairman Mausser called the November 22, 2011 Special Session of the North Liberty Planning and Zoning Commission to order. Commission members present: Covert, Detlefsen, Frost, Haack, Mausser, Moore. Absent: Anderson Others present: Scott Peterson, Kevin Trom, Dean Wheatley, Erika Harper and Greg Stiltner.

Approval of the Agenda. Moore moved, Haack seconded to approve the agenda as drafted. The vote was: ayes – Haack, Moore, Detlefsen, Covert, Frost, Mausser; nays – none. Motion carried.

Public Comment. No public comment was offered.

Greg Stiltner Site Plan Approval Request.
Staff Presentation. Wheatley presented the request of Greg Stiltner to approve a site plan for property generally located west of I-380 and south of West Penn Street on Herky Drive. The development proposed is a straightforward rectangular building with adjacent parking and meets all code requirements. Staff recommends approval of the site with no conditions.
Applicant’s Presentation. Greg Stiltner presented background on his business to the Commission and noted that he appreciates the special meeting so that he can get started on his development before the ground freezes.
Public Comments. No public comments were received.
Questions and Comments. The Commission spoke in favor the application as presented.
Recommendation to City Council. Detlefsen moved, Moore seconded to recommend approval of the site plan to the City Council with no conditions. The vote was: ayes – Detlefsen, Mausser, Frost, Moore, Covert, Haack; nays – none. Motion carried.

Minutes of Previous Meetings. Frost moved, Haack seconded to approve the minutes of the Planning Commission meetings contained in the packet. All ayes. Motion carried.

Cases Under Development. Wheatley summarized the pending case for the Commission.

Adjournment. At 6:10 p.m. the meeting was adjourned by unanimous consent.

North Liberty Planning Commission
Minutes
November 1, 2011

Roll Call.
At 6:30 p.m., Chairman Mausser called the November 1, 2011 Planning Commission meeting to order. Commission members present: Anderson, Covert, Detlefsen, Frost, Haack, Mausser; absent – Moore
Others present: Dean Wheatley, Tracey Mulcahey, Erek Sittig, Erika Harper, Glenn Siders, Lori Lindner, Carter Kurdlre and other interested parties.

Agenda Approval.
Frost moved, Haack seconded to approve the agenda. The vote was: ayes – Frost, Mausser, Covert, Haack, Detlefsen, Anderson; nays – none; absent – Moore. Motion carried.
Public Comment.
No public comment was offered.

Autumn Ridge Partners Rezoning Request.
Staff Presentation. Wheatley presented the request of Autumn Ridge Partners, LC to approve a rezoning from RS-6 (Single-Family) to RD-10 (Duplex Zero-lot) for property generally located south of Zeller Street west of Garner Elementary School. Staff recommended denial of the request and recommends consideration of RD-8 Duplex Zero-lot zoning.

Applicant’s Presentation. Glenn Siders, Autumn Ridge Partners, presented background of the subdivision from concept to today. The developers have seen success with the zero lot line lots, but very little on the single family lots. Four homes have been constructed, only two have sold. Siders presented his case for having the zoning be approved at RD-10. The developer plans to plat larger lot widths than the minimum required for RD-10, but can’t meet the 100 foot lot size required for RD-8. Siders proposed the commission require that all lots be bigger than 10,000 square feet and at least 90 feet wide.
Public Comments. No public comments were offered.
Questions and Comments of the Commission. The Commission discussed potential for requesting a rezoning of additional property here. Other items discussed included on street parking, outlots, signage, capacity of Garner Elementary, and traffic impacts.
Recommendation to City Council. Haack moved, Detlefsen seconded to recommend approval of the rezoning request to the City Council with the lots all being at least 10,000 square feet large
and at least 90 feet wide. After discussion, the vote was: ayes – Covert, Detlefsen, Anderson, Mausser, Haack, Frost; nays –none; absent – Moore. Motion carried.

Liberty Medical & Commerce, Part 3 Preliminary Plat.
Staff Presentation. Wheatley presented the request of Dean R. Moore to approve a 4-lot preliminary plat for property generally located south of Penn Street and east of Cameron Way. This is an area that was rezoned subject to density shown on concept plan and will be reviewed by staff to ensure that is met. Staff recommends approval with the existing storage building being removed and the receipt of a covenant or agreement regarding sharing/maintenance/use of the existing pond and private sanitary sewers.

Applicant’s Presentation. The developer and engineer both had conflicts tonight and were unable to attend.
Public Comments. No public comments were offered.
Questions and Comments of the Commission. The Commission had no questions or comments.
Recommendation to City Council. Detlefsen moved, Mausser seconded to recommend approval of the application of Liberty Medical & Commerce, Part 3 Preliminary Plat to the City Council subject to the following conditions: The existing storage building is not a permitted stand-alone use in the multi-family zoning district and arrangements for its removal will need to be made with the city’s Building Safety Department. The owner will need to provide covenants or other evidence of arrangements for sharing/maintenance/use of the existing pond and private sanitary sewers. The vote was: ayes – Detlefsen, Anderson, Mausser, Haack, Frost, Covert; nays – none, absent – Moore. Motion carried.

Approval of Minutes from the October 4, 2011 Meeting. Anderson moved, Frost seconded to approve the minutes of the October 4, 2011 Planning Commission meeting. The vote was all ayes. Motion carried.

Old Business. No old business was presented.

New Business. Wheatley reported that the revised plat for Autumn Ridge and the site plan for Bales/Mekota development applications were received. The Bales/Mekota site plan looks exactly like the concept plan that was presented.
Cases Under Development. Wheatley reported that staff has been working on the request of the Casey’s Marketing Company to approve a site plan for new Casey’s Convenience Store located at the southwest corner of Highway 965 and Cherry Street. He is meeting with them this week.

Adjournment. At 7:10 p.m., Haack moved, Anderson seconded to adjourn. All ayes. Meeting adjourned.

Planning and Zoning Commission
Minutes
October 4, 2011

Call to Order. At 6:30 p.m., Chairman Mausser called the October 4, 2011 Regular Session of
the North Liberty Planning and Zoning Commission to order. Commission members present:
Anderson, Covert, Detlefsen, Frost, Haack, Mausser, Moore.
Others present: Ryan Heiar, Tracey Mulcahey, Scott Peterson, Kevin Trom, Dean Wheatley,
Erika Harper and other interested parties.

Approval of the Agenda. Moore moved, Haack seconded to approve the agenda as drafted. The
vote was: ayes – Haack, Moore, Detlefsen, Covert, Frost, Mausser, Anderson; nays – none.
Motion carried.

Public Comment. No public comment was offered.

Midwest Home Builders Rezoning Request.
Staff Presentation. Wheatley presented the request of Midwest Home Builders to approve a
rezoning from RS-4 (Single-Family) to RM-8 (Multi-family) for property generally located east
of the Dubuque Street and north of West Penn Street. The developer has reached an agreement
with the adjacent property owner, Copeland Meadows, for access. Staff recommends approval of
the application with the following condition: That the developer/owners agree in a written
document addressed to the city that development on the site will be generally consistent with and
no denser than the concept plan.
Applicant’s Presentation. Duane Musser from MMS Consultants and Dan Sweeting from
Midwest Homes reported that an agreement has been reached with Copeland Homeowner’s
Association regarding the access to Hidden Meadows.
Public Comments. No public comments were received.
Questions and Comments. The Commission spoke in favor the application as presented.
Recommendation to City Council. Moore moved, Detlefsen seconded to recommend approval of
the rezoning request to the City Council with the condition that the developer/owners agree in a
written document addressed to the city that development on the site will be generally consistent
with and no denser than the concept plan and with an approved access agreement with Copeland
Meadows Homeowners Association. The vote was: ayes – Detlefsen, Mausser, Frost, Moore,
Covert, Anderson, Haack; nays – none. Motion carried.

Hidden Meadows Preliminary and Final Plats.
Staff Presentation. Wheatley presented the request of Midwest Home Builders to approve a 3-lot
preliminary and final plat for property generally located east of the Dubuque Street and north of
West Penn Street. Staff recommends approval with the following conditions:
1. That the extension of Copeland Lane meets city street design standards for pavement thickness
and subgrade drainage.
2. That a sidewalk connection is provided from West Penn Street to Copeland Lane.
Applicant’s Presentation. Duane Musser presented additional information regarding the
application.
Public Comments. No public comments were offered.
Questions and Comments. The Commission discussed the storm water detention basins and
public access.
Recommendation to City Council. Haack moved, Frost seconded to recommend approval of the
Preliminary and Final Plats of Hidden Meadows Subdivision to the City Council with the
following conditions:
1. That the extension of Copeland Lane meets city street design standards for pavement
thickness and subgrade drainage.
2. That a sidewalk connection is provided from West Penn Street to Copeland Lane.
The vote was: ayes – Frost, Haack, Covert, Moore, Anderson, Mausser, Detlefsen; nays – none.
Motion carried.

Allen Homes Rezoning Request.
Staff Presentation. Wheatley presented the request of Allen Homes to approve a rezoning from
C-1-B (Commercial) to RM-21 (Multi-family) for property generally located west of Highway
965 at the end of the private drive Club House Road. Staff recommends approval with the
condition that the developer/owners agree in a written document addressed to the city that
development on the site will be generally consistent with the layout and building style of the
concept plan. No rezoning completion until access is complete.
Applicant’s Presentation. Jesse Allen from Allen Homes reported on the application for the site.
He has hired an architect from Chicago for the site plan design. Allen presented the preliminary
site plan. The applicant has met with the owners of the condominiums and golf course regarding
the roadway.
The commission asked about parking, the pond, and the density of the proposed development.
Public Comments. Karen Johnson stated that the Quail Creek Condominiums presented a letter
signed by several owners at the Good Neighbor meeting. She stated that this will be good for
Quail Creek condos and that the access road will be improved in the process. Evelyn Bollinger
said that she is surprised that this application is being recommended by staff for approval. She
stated that only one unimproved access exists and this will put lots of cars on Highway 965. She
stated that the application is not a companion building as indicated by staff. She further stated
that the association agreement being signed was a surprise as the Association not had a meeting
regarding the document. Wheatley stated that access improvement is critical. If recommended for
Council approval, the application will be held until there is assurance that the drive will be
upgraded. Kevin Johannsen of 1180 Hauer Drive spoke against the rezoning. He would prefer
more single family homes rather than higher density. Blaine Thomas, one of the applicants,
reported that he delivered a letter to the golf course owner. The developer will pay for the road
improvements and maintenance. He stated that this development would be a unique cornerstone
piece for North Liberty. Kevin Johannsen then stated that no other community has this type of
design because it is a bad idea. George Pappageorge, the architect for the project, spoke about
the project. The developer is seeking to create an interesting sense of place for diversity in
culture and age groups. He stated that commercial district uses could far exceed the traffic
movements of residential district movements. The proposed use is compatible with existing
neighbors and has large outdoor spaces. Chad Waring of 1150 Hauer Drive expressed concerns
with the density.
Questions and Comments. The Commission discussed the traffic impact on Highway 965, the
density of the proposed structure, the access road improvements, the term of the build out, and
the size and cost of the proposed units.
Recommendation to City Council. Mausser moved, Haack seconded to recommend non-approval
of the rezoning request to the City Council. After discussion, the vote was: ayes – Mausser,
Anderson, Haack, Covert, Frost; nays – Detlefsen; abstain – Moore. Motion carried.
Land Use Plan Updates.
Staff Presentation. Wheatley reviewed the proposed changes to Land Use Plan discussed at
previous joint meetings with Council.
Recommendation to City Council. Detlefsen moved, Frost seconded to recommend the proposed
Land Use Plan Updates to the City Council. The vote was: ayes – Moore, Covert, Anderson,
Haack, Frost, Detlefsen, Mausser; ayes – none. Motion carried.

Minutes of Previous Meetings. Frost moved, Moore seconded to approve the minutes of the
Planning Commission meetings contained in the packet. All ayes. Motion carried.

Cases Under Development. Wheatley summarized the pending case for the Commission.
Adjournment. At 8:00 p.m., Moore moved, Haack seconded to adjourn. All ayes. Meeting
adjourned.

Minutes
North Liberty City Council
September 6, 2011
Joint Meeting with Planning Commission

Call to order.  The Special Meeting of the North Liberty City Council was called to order by Mayor Tom Salm at 7:50 p.m.  Council members present: Chipman, Donahue, Hoffman, Kuhl, Wayson.

Planning Commission Members Present:  Anderson, Mausser, Haack, Frost, Moore, Covert; absent: Detlefsen.

Others present:  Ryan Heiar, Dean Wheatley, Kevin Trom, Mary Byers, Nick Bergus, Jeff Mekota, Mike Bails, Duane Musser, Chuck Finnegan and other interested citizens.

Approval of the Agenda:  Kuhl moved, seconded by Wayson, to approve the agenda.  The vote was: ayes—Chipman, Donahue, Hoffman, Kuhl, Wayson.  Motion carried.

Land Use Plan Discussion:  Wheatley presented an overview of previous discussions on the Land Use Map and also had new areas for review. Consensus was reached on the new areas and a comprehensive map amendment will be prepared for future formal action by the Commission and Council.

Adjournment:  Hoffman moved, seconded by Kuhl, to adjourn the meeting at 8:05 p.m.  The vote was: ayes—Chipman, Donahue, Hoffman, Kuhl, Wayson.  Motion carried.

City of North Liberty
North Liberty Planning Commission
Minutes
August 2, 2011

Roll Call. At 6:30 p.m., Chairman Mausser called the August 2, 2011 Planning Commission meeting to order. Commission members present: Anderson, Covert, Detlefsen, Frost, Mausser, Moore; absent – Haack.
Others present: Ryan Heiar, Dean Wheatley, Kevin Trom, Tracey Mulcahey, Erika Harper, Dwight Dobberstein, Kelly Beckler, Dick Noble, Kevin Hochstedler and other interested parties.
Approval of the Agenda. Moore moved, Anderson seconded to approve the agenda. The vote was: ayes – Frost, Moore, Detlefsen, Covert, Mausser, Anderson; nays – none; absent – Haack. Motion carried.
Public Comment. No public comment was offered.

University of Iowa Community Credit Union Commercial Development Site Plan.
Staff Presentation. Wheatley presented the request of the University of Iowa Community Credit Union to approve a site plan for new office development generally located west of Kansas Avenue north of St. Andrews Drive/270th Street. Staff recommends approval with no conditions.
Applicant’s Presentation. Dick Noble from the University of Iowa Community Credit Union presented the proposed site plan. The $28 million project is for a 100,000 square foot building with plans for a future addition to the west. Dwight Dobberstein, Neumann Monson, presented highlights from the proposed building. He acknowledged city staff, Kelly Beckler from MMS Consultants and Confluence for work on the project.
Public Comments. No comments from the public were offered.
Questions and Comments from the Commission. Commission discussed the required parking versus proposed parking on the site. The plan has 238 proposed spots for 150 employees, the proposed starting number.
Recommendation to City Council. Moore moved, Frost seconded to recommend the University of Iowa Community Credit Union Commercial Site Plan as presented to the North Liberty City Council. The vote was: ayes – Moore, Detlefsen, Covert, Mausser, Anderson, Frost; nays – none; absent – Haack. Motion carried.

J&K Rentals Commercial Development Site Plan.
Staff Presentation. Wheatley presented the Request of J&K Rentals to approve a site plan for new multi-use commercial development generally located east of Kansas Avenue south of Penn Street on Madison Avenue. Staff recommends approval.
Applicant’s Presentation. Kevin Hochstedler presented the application of J & K Rentals for a multi use commercial development. The proposed building compliments other buildings nearby. The application meets all of the zoning requirements.
Public Comments. No public comment was offered.
Questions and Comments from the Commission. There was no discussion on this application.
Recommendation to City Council. Moore moved, Detlefsen seconded to recommend the J&K Rentals Commercial Site Plan as proposed to the North Liberty City Council. After discussion, the vote was: ayes –Detlefsen, Covert, Mausser, Anderson, Frost, Moore; nays – none; absent Haack. Motion carried.

Penn Meadows Addition – Part VI Final Plat.
Staff Presentation. Wheatley presented the Request of Corridor Commercial Development Company to approve a 31-lot final plat of Penn Meadows Addition – Part VI, generally located north of East Penn Street and east of North Front Street. Staff recommends approval with recommendation of extension of the approval period through the end of the year.
Applicant’s Presentation. No presentation by the applicant was made.
Public Comments. No public comment was offered.
Questions and Comments from the Commission. The Commission discussed extending the preliminary plat.
Recommendation to City Council. Detlefsen moved, Anderson seconded to recommend the Penn Meadows Addition – Part VI Final Plat as proposed with the extension of the preliminary plat expiration to December 31, 2011 to the North Liberty City Council. The vote was: ayes – Mausser, Detlefsen, Covert, Anderson, Frost, Moore; nays – none; absent – Haack. Motion carried.

Minutes. Moore moved, Covert seconded to approve the minutes from the July 5, 2011 Planning Commission meeting. The votes were: Covert, Mausser, Anderson, Frost, Moore, Detlefsen; nays – none; absent – Haack. Motion carried.
Old Business. Wheatley reported that the joint meeting with Council is immediately following this meeting. Three cases are under development including multifamily and Casey’s site plan development.
Adjournment. At 6:50 p.m., Moore moved, Mausser seconded to adjourn. All ayes. Meeting adjourned.