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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes 2008Planning & Development Committee _ ilinutes of January 14, 2008 Room 2200--6:30 p.m. (Council Chambers) Evanston Civic Center Alderman Preit:nt: S. Bernstein, D. Holmes, A. Hansen, L. Jean -Baptiste,, E. Moran; A. Rainey, E. Tisdahl, C. Wollin, M. Wynne Staff -Present; J. Wolinski, J. Aiello, J. Brownlee, J. Carroll, J. Chambers, K. Cox, P. D'Agostino, B. Dorneker, B. Dunkley, D. Gaynor, S. Levine; D. Marino Presiding Official: Alderman Hansen DECLARATION OF OUORUbt Chair Hansen called the meeting to order at 7:02 pm." Due to overcrowding she moved the meeting into the Council Chambers. Chair Hansen explained her plan for the order of this meeting in consideration of the items on tonight's agenda that will require lengthy amounts of time for deliberation. She will allow sufficient time at the end of this meeting for the Lake Front Master Plan Consultants to give their presentation since they arc present. She informed all those that came out tonight for this matter that realistically this matter will require more time than allotted at this meeting. She asked the will of the Committee. Mr. Gaynor informed the Committee that the consultant will not be available for the next 2 regularly schedule P&D meeting dates of January 28"' and February Ile', therefore a special meeting would be preferable. After some discussion, the Committee agreed to schedule the special meeting for Tuesday, January 22, 2008 at 7.00 p.m. in the Council Chambers. ,APPROVAL OF THE DECEMBER 10. 2007 MEETING AIINUTES Aid. Tisdahl moved approval of the December 10, 2007 meeting minutes, seconded by Aid. Wynne. The minutes were approved with a vote of9-0. ITEMS FOR CONSIDERATION (Pl) Reauest for Planned Develonment Extension Ordinance 7-0-07. 1100-1722 Central Street Aid. Wynne moved approval, seconded by Aid. Jean -Baptiste. Mr. Wolinski informed the Committee that staff recommends approval of the applicants request provided the following conditions as stated on the agenda item summary: 1) If construction has not becun by May 1, 2008. the construction fence around the perimeter of the property must be removed by May 15, 2008. The construction fence will be replaced «-hen a building permit is obtained and no work may commence until the fence has been installed and approved by the City. 2) The lot will be graded and seeded by May 15, 21008. 3) The lot will be checked and cleaned on a weekly basis for litter, fly dumping, etc... 4) The grass on the lot will be mowed weekly. 5) Parking of vehicles and equipment on the lot during this period is prohibited. „ <, P&D Committee Mtg. Minutes of I-14-08 Page 2 Mr. Bob Horne, Principal of Eastwood of Evanston LLC along with his partner John Crocker, requested if the Committee could grant them a 30-day relief from stasis recommended date of May 15, 2008 to June 15, 2008. He explained that there may be a need for the start date of construction to extend beyond the recommended d_te, preferably within a months time because the building start is predicated on pre -sale funds. In view of the tough market situation, this extra month might allow them the opportunity for more sales with the spring market period. Mr. Horne noted that they are close tivith their pre -sale predicted funds therefore even if they don't make any sales within that month's time, they will still be prepared to begin construction. He said they are trying to avoid having to take the fence down and then putting it right back up within this 30-day window. Aid. Bernstein stated that realistically if the lot is graded and seeded it will not start to grow until after May or June any%%mys. Therefore he does not see a problem with granting the applicants request for a little extra time. However, he clarified the he definitely support all of staffs recommended conditions. Aid. Tisdahl stated that she fully supports staffs recommendations and the May 15, 2008 date. She is not supportive of any relief time and prefers that a set date be decided and specified for these conditions whether it be May or June 15'b. Aid. Bernstein moved to extend staffs recommended date of May I5, 2009 to June 15,2008 For construction fencing to be removed and the lot graded and seeded, seconded by Aid. Jean -Baptiste. The vote AN -as 4 in favor (Woilin, Wynne, Jean -Baptiste, Bernstein) and 5 voting nay (Hansen. Holmes, Moran, Tisdahl, Rainey). Motion denied. Aid. Rainey stated that she does have some concerns about the request for extension of time by the applicant, however she %vould have no problem with amending the conditions to authorize the Community Development Director to give that exception if they see fit. She feels the C.D. Director would certainly have the knowledge of the applicants/developers situation and status to maize an administrative decision at that point which she trust staff would make within reason. Aid. Tisdahl stated she still supports the May 15* date and would like to see the fencing come down by that date. If the developer needs more time to do pre -sale funding, then they can do so then come back and put up the construction fencing again when they are ready to begin construction; she does not see this as being any real financial strain on the developer. With Aid. Rainey's suggestion the Committee asked Legal staff if it would be ailo%able to keep the date set by staff of May 15. 2008 in the conditions and leave it up to the Community Development Director's discretion to allow the developer 30-d3%• relief beyond the set date if they see fit to do so. Mr. Cox responded that this would be allowable as long as it is agreed by this Committee. Aid. Rainey motioned to amend to authorize the discretion of the Community Development Director to allow 30 additional days as they see fit. Aid. Bernstein seconded the motion and the vote was 7 to 2 voting nay (Hansen. `loran). Vote on the main motion by Aid. Wynne, seconded by Aid. Jean -Baptiste was 9-0 in favor of the motion. (P2) Ordinance 4-0-08 — Snecial use Reauest for a Convenience Store at 510 Main Street Aid. Wynne moved apprnval of Ordinance 44"S, seconded by Aid. Rainey. The vote wits 9-0 in favor of the motion. Aid. Wynne requested that a suspension of the rules this evening to allow the applieanc'ovyner to open this store as soon as possible in consideration of loosing the P&D Committee Mtg. Minutes of 1-14-08 Page 3 neighborhood long-time convenient store recently. The Committee members support Ald. Wynne's request. (P3) Ordinance 5-0-08 — Central Street Plan Implementation — Text Amendment Ald. Alomn moved approval, seconded by Aid. Tisdahl. Mr. Dunkley suggested to the Committee, in the interest of time and recognition that Ordinance's 5-0-08 and Ordinance 6-0-08 for the Text and Map Amendments Are "sister" ordinances for amendments to the Central Street Plan and that the two items be considered by Planning & Development Committee in combination. The Committee members all agreed to this and Chair Hansen amended and added (P4) Ordinance 6-0-08 — Central Street Plan lmolementation — Mao Amendment along with Ald. Moran's motion. Mr. Dunkley proceeded with an overview of the Central Street Master Plan. He began with the text amendments to the Zoning Ordinance explaining the addition of the proposed new overlay District, oCSC-Central Street Corridor, in Section 6-I5-14 and additional definitions to Chapter 18 of this overlay district, as a primary means of implementing the zoning recommendations for the Central Street blaster Plan. He referred to the Elements of these proposed Zoning implementations for the overlay district to the Zoning \lap Amendments. In conjunction of those text amendments to the proposed map amendments, Mr. Dunkley pointed out those 5 rezoning elements as: ea — Central/Crawford Gross Point Intersection from C2 to B l a, rea 2 — Central Street from Hartrey to Eastwood from B2 to Bla, Area 3 — Green Bay,11larrison from C2 to Bla, Area 4 — NE corner of Central/Eastwood from OI to Bla, and Area — Central Street CTA Transit Station from OS to B2. He used overhead/power point exhibits to illustrate those • map amendments. He further pointed out the 7 sub -areas of the overlay district and the definitions to the Zoning Ordinance. He elaborated on sub area 93 and went through the history of events regarding this area in view of the existing concerns and attention remaining with this location regarding National Louis University's PACE program proposed dormitory use. Mr. Dunkley referred to his memorandum handed out this evening referring to staff's position on 1620 Central Street. He clarified that the addition of "dormitory" use as a special use in sub area #3 of the oCSC Overlay District would not grant any right to National Louis University or any present owner of the subject property to use this location as a dormitory. It would only permit the property owner to apply for a special use for such project and be subject to subsequent public process the same as any other special use that would require Zoning Board, Planning & Development Committee hearings and then heard before Council. Ald. Bernstein questioned if the PACE program would quafifv under any separate regulations in accordance to their program that would deem them exempt from the required procedural process for all special use applications. %fr. Dunkley assured that the PACE program would be considered no different or given any preferential status from the normal special use process. With this, Chair Hansen called on representatives in attendance to speak on behalf of National Louis University and their PACE Program operations propos d for this location. Mr. Jack Lawler, Lawyer representing National Louis University addressed the Committee. He first noted that PACE stands for —Professional Assistant Care Center for Education." This program not only provides past-secondan- education for young adults with multiple learning disabilities but also help them learn how to wort: and live independently. Mr. Lawler acknowledged the many representatives from the PACE program here along with lum beginning with Ms. Carol Burns, Director for the PACE Program; Bill Roberts, Vice President for Facilities & Operations for National Louis University-, \fr. Dan Roff, Consulting Architect; Mr. Patrick P&D Committee Attg_ Minutes of 1-14-08 Page 4 Hughes, qualifying with many ?^ears of experience in w xting wit the learning disabled; Mr. Henry Ross, National Louis Professor experienced in working with the PACE Program; Mr. Ira Mitchell, PACE Alumni; several current PACE students: Nat Smith, Richard Flair and Jane Theador, and rr=altor Mr. Joe Goodman of Orrington Realty who for many years has leased units in the commercial market place to students and alumni's of the PACE Program. On behalf of his client, Air. Lawler requested that the Planning &: Development Committee and City Council consider their application for the proposed Special Use for the property located at 1620 Central as a dormitory use under the normal and regulatory requirements for the required public hearing process. He called on Nis. Burns to give a brief overview of their program. Ald. Bernstein interrupted at this point of any further testimony regarding the PACE Program and their operations. In his opinion, there is no question on the operation, purpose or quality of this program, the question and concern lies with the use requested for this property as a dormitory. There is no opposing parties are not against this program but instead the timing of this use being added and the end or "last hour" of the entire Central Street PIan zoning process and the allowance a dormitory use as a special use for this property. This has been so noted by the Zoning Administrator at this point so there is no need for an overview of the actual program at this time. Upon discussion, the consensus of the Committee agreed with Aid. Bernstein's position and Chair Hansen asked Ms. Burns to defer her comments at this tine. Discussion continued regarding proper notice and discussion with the Plant Commission for this property and the legalities of allowing the last minute zoning at this point. Mr. Dunkley responded that this item along with a few others did not have much deliberation by the Plan Commission, Aid. Rainey requested that Mr. Dunkley for% -rid copies of the transcript where this reference w•as made and any discussion of this matter. 0 Chair Hansen recognized at this time that there will not be sufTcicnt time to complete deliberations for this item and will have to be held over to the next regularly scheduled meeting on January 28, 2008. At that meeting they will call on all those signed up for comment as well, as time permits. However, she did acknowledge Mr. Ken Bailey's correspondence distributed too the Committee this evening and said that she would allow him to comment since he represents a numerous amount of property owners in the immediate area surrounding 1620 Central. (Ald. Bernstein left the meeting at this time — 7:55 p.m.) Mr. Ken Bailee addressed the Committee representing a large group of citizens with properties abutting the 1620 Central Street property located in sub area =3. He first made it clear that they are supportive of the Master Plan in itself %%ith the requested amendment: to eliminate Additional Permitted Uses (A) and Additional Special Uses (B) for Sub area 43 contained in "Table 1: Additional Uses." The basis for their request. as noted in his memorandum handed out to the Committee this eveninsz. are as follows: 1) They believe that their proposal will quell citizen outrage over the process followed late in the implementation process and seine to support the full intent of the Master Plan. 2) They believe that the implementation ordinance for the central Street master Plan should not contain elements that are not in the Master Plan itself. 3) They believe their proposal will do no harm and seine to preserve the purpose, spirit, and integrity of the Central Street Master Plan and Ordinance 5-0-08. P&D Committee Mtg. � Minutes of 1-14-08 Page 5 • In conclusion, Mr. Bailey stressed that if something -Aw not in the original draft Plan presented, then it should not be included at this point. He urged the Committee to adopt their proposed amendment his group has presented. Chair Hansen suggested this item be introduced this evening and referred back to Committee The vote was 9-0 in favor of the motion. She also informed all those signed up to speak on this matter that they can either comment during Citizen Comment at the Council Meeting or wait until the next regularly scheduled P&D meeting; she assured that citizen comment %%ill be taken first. (M Resolution 6-R-08 — Sale of the Park Evanston Building Ald. Moran moved approval, seconded by Aid. Wollin. The vote was 7-0 in favor of the motion (Bernstein absent, Wynne temporarily absent). fP51 Resolution 7-R-08 — fake Front Master Plan Mr. Doug Gaynor gave opening comments and a brief overview of the Evanston Lakefront and Corridor Reconstruction Project Master Plan. He gave some background of the Evanston lake front and noted that this long-range master plan was one of the components of the City's Strategic Plan. As a result, the City has committed certain funds in support of this project and additional funds have since been awarded to the City from the State to reconstruct the existing pedestrian -bike pathway between Lee and Clark Street Beaches as a critical component of this master plan implementation. Mr. Gaynor informed the Committee that this entire process with the consultant has been done publicly with several visioning meetings and extensive public involvement activities. On November 15, 2007, the Draft final was presented to the public and subsequently presented to the Playground and Recreation Board on December 13,'2007 at which 40 the Board unanimously approved the Plan and recommended that it move forward for City Council's approval. Air. Gaynor turned the presentation over to the Consultant Team Project Director. Mr. Gres Weytramp, Landscape Architect and EDAW Project Manager introduced himself followed by his EDAW Team members. He introduced 'pis. Pat Sadana Katke, Principal Architect of URBANWorks Architecture and also an Evanston resident; Mr. Ted Wolff, Principal of Wolfs' Landscape Architecture %.ho is has 30 years e.Verience with landscape design of lakefront parks; and Ms. Anne McGuire LEED Specialist and Principal of the Architecture Firm Of McGuire Igleski Associates which is an Evanston based easiness and she also is a resident of Evanston. Mr. Weykamp recapped on Air. Gaymor's previous statement regarding extensive public involvement. He informed the Committee that indeed" public meetings were held with the final being held on November 15, 2007 where they presented their Final draft of the proposed Lakefront Corridor :Master Plan which was supported by the majority. He assured the Committee that µhit is being presented tonight is exactly the same as «hat was presented to the Final public meeting and approved by the Playground and Recreation Board in December. �lr. We%kamp follov.-ed with the P,-,%Ncr Point presentation•. (included in the packet materials). The presentation was presented in the following order. 1) Lakefront Vision providing a. Natural Environment components, b. Access and Circulation, c. Facilities, d. Programming, and e. Administration and Policy. He followed with process diagram of the lakefront vision. 2) Community Outreach Process illustrating the public engag;ment process and the public notice and outreach efforts made. 3) Master Plan Process and Guiding Principles; 4) Lakefront Master Plan Process Summary; 5) Draft Consensus Plan summarizing the many ideals, principles, suggestions, proposals, etc. that were brought up and discus`e:d in the public visioning meetings. i• i P&D Committee 1►ttg. Minutes of 1-14-08 Page 6 6) Illustrations of the Landscape Imagery, and 7) Lakeshore Armoring Options. The presentation concluded with Draft Consensus Plans for Lincoln St. Oti erlook, Plan for Northwestern to Church Street and Draft Consensus Plan for the Lighthouse Park He concluded his presentation at this point. Chair Hansen announced that this martyr will be continued to the Special Meeting set for Tuesday, January 22, 2008 at 7:00 pan. in the Council Chambers. ADJOURNMEN f The meeting vvas adjourned at 8:45 p.m. Respectfully submitted, ', ! i- :i�:l`i rl: :'I:IfCrF'�` �i} •��ilr ' � Jacq elin E. BMAMnlee .Jrrl,fl ti:Jr F 1 1si:!s.:... rJ 'r it .�Ir;i, i .-, _ ..i 1:'+� a i�:.:15-: r'•X, t • • Planning & Development Committee ; Special Alleeting s _ Ilfinutes of January 22, 2008 Council Chambers — 7:O0 p.m. Evanston Civic Center Alderman Present::: S: Bernstein, D. Holmes, A. Hansen, L.. Jean -Baptiste, E. Moran, E. Tisdahl, C. Wollin, M. Wynne Staff Present: J. Wolinski, J. Aiello, K. Cox, B. Dunkley, D. Marino, T. Norfieet, C. Ruiz, A. Stewart, J. Brownlee Alderman Absent: A. Rainey „! 1; .. Presiding Official: Alderman Hansen DECLARATION OF OUORUAt :.;,•!; , i r , Chair Hansen called the meeting to order at 7:14 p.m. UEM FOR CONSIDERATIOPI ; Resolution 7-11-08 — Lake Front Corridor Master Plan Chair Hansen pvc a brief overview of the results from the January 10, 2008 P&D Meeting; specifically the consultants presentation. She asked the Committee if they had any question for the consultant at this time. The consensus of the Cornmitice was to hold off any questions until after citizen comments have been heard. Chair Hansen noted that she would begin with calling on those citizens signed up to speak on the January 14" list and proceed to call on those that signed up this evening. Charles Sheridan. 2331 Church, presented his proposal for creating a new revenue stream from the lakefront. His proposal takes into consideration another means other than raising taxes to create revenue sources for the City. He proposes to build a new mini -harbor that could hold tpproximately 1&20 boats and along that harbor have one or more lakefront restaurants. He suggested the area around the lagoon would be ideal and create a "lake or riverfront" type setting for the restaurant with an upscale design and atmosphere. hir. Sheridan displayed several diagrams illustrating his proposal. He contemplates taking the existing breakwater at Church Street to build the mini -harbor. He further suggested renovating the existing lagoon house for one of the restaurants and possibly another small restaurant concession in the lagoon area. Mr. Sheridan belie, -es the market .would be advantageous for such a project because there are no lakefront restaurants betwecn domvntown and Forth Point at the Wisconsin boarder. He further proposed that it might be necessary to excavate a small part of the Mach area to create the mini harbor, which he pointed out on his diagrams. He concluded that an estimated cost for such a project would be in the range of approximately 5-500,000 which could be acquired in municipal bonds or other similar financing. At the end of the redemption period for the municipal bond, this proposed project could create a permanent revenue stream for the City. Virginia Beam. 1 509 Forest Avenue, said she has been an Evanston property owner since 1963; she is an avid business woman with a history of experience with being a consultant in environmental education and urban horticulture since 1968; a landscape designer since 1973; and Special P&:D Committee Meeting Minutes — 01122108 Page 2 a radio personality for 25 years giving advice on planting. Nis. Beatty read from a prepared statement summarizing her opinion on the good ideas and not so good ideas resulting from the group meeting regarding the Lake front. Robert and Alice Each,. 324 Davis. his. Eaely said they have been residents since 1995. She spoke on behalf of she and her husband expressing many concerns for pedestrian safety and pointed out that there is very little consideration of this concern in the presented plan. She pointed out their specific area of concern located from south ofNorth%vestern University down to Davis Street. She gave several examples of unsafe conditions for walkers as well as bicyclists, witnessed in just trying to cross in this area. Also this stretch of area has experienced many vehicle accidents due to the poor traffic design and lack of vehicle consideration to pedestrian right-of-way. Nis. Eagly suggested that this particular area needs more policing and especially during all the months where lakefront usage is more desirable, not just when this area is used for summer concerts and fairs. She also made recognition to the fact of the close proximity of the retirement homes to this area where the average age of those residents is 88 years old. These senior individuals frequently walk to the lakefront. his. Eagly concluded that more attention still needs to be considered for pedestrian safer• in this area with better solutions other than: the suggested cross walk. Diane Korline. 1914 Orrinmon said that she has been a resident since 1978 and is an avid fan of the lakefront which she walks to from her home. She elaborated on some of her history and experiences living in close proximity to the lakefront beach area and how it is almost similar to and puts her in the mind of East Coast locations with the same quaint atmosphere. With these thoughts in mind, site supports the comments and position made by Nis. Beatty previously. She also supports the comments trade by his. Eagly and urges the Committee to seriously incorporate the traffic study along with the concerns expressed and come up with some solutions for pedestrian safety. Nis. Korling expressed her appreciation with the efforts made by staff and the consultants to save the Clark Street Beach and the proposed changed to that park. Katie Stallcup, 144 Green%%ood stated that she is a member and represents the Southeast Evanston Association and she read from a prepared statement (see attached. Mark Simon. 204 Lake Street said he has lived at this address for the past 10 years. He pointed out his concerns in the area form Clark Stint to Greenwoc%d Street with traffic and parkins implications. He feels the Plan does not take into consideration many traffic problems that will occur with the proposed street design changes. He pointed out the intersection of Davis and Forest which is a main outlet for exiting to the north: it is not feasible to close this street off. Daniel P"ie, 400 Ridee Avenue said that he is proposed to additional commercial activity on the Lakefront especially the addition of food establishments and concessions. He suggested in view of the pedestrian "peril" noted at Davis Street is a major thoroughfare where safety is a big concern. He suggested that it might be better to ha, a an underpass at this intersection. Norbert Budde, 1108 South Blvd. said that he likes the Flan, the accommodations made for pedestrians, bicyclist and general public to the lakefront. He feels a philosophical issue seems to be at stake here and that is the residents that live directly adjacent to the lakefront .want it to remain like a neighborhood park setting. He strongly feels the lakefront belongs to everyone and this Plan needs to tape that into consideration_ 0 • Special P&D Committee Niming Minutes — 01/22/08 Page 3 • Mark Metz, 2125 Sherman is the Playground and Recreation Board President. He made all the meetings and has heard all the citizen comments and input. He feels this is a good Plan, not perfect as he does not agree with all the issues, but as a whole, support this Plan. He definitely feels the Plan needs a traffic engineering review and study to complete the traffic issues around the Lakefront to complete the Plan. The proposal for low impact commercial use would be desirable such as a small cafe preferably near the Lighthouse and maybe some small concession stands at each beach entrance. Overall fir. Metz feels this Plan allows more access for everyone to enjoy the Lakefront. In his opinion the Plan is evident that the architects listened, staff listened and he urges the Committee to support this Plan as presented. Paul Grottlick. 1034 Michiean expressed his concerns with the area of Hamilton and Lee Street «here a new restroom is proposed at the end of this beach. From that intersection a bathroom facility building .would not be a preferable first view of the Lakefront in his opinion. He requests that consideration be given to move this building over so that is it not the first view of the lake from that intersection. Candace Gusmanski (?). 1430 Sheridan expressed her concerns with traffic problems between Greenwood and Lake Street. She said it is extremely congested and does not need to be a two - «ay street in this area. She feels that traffic will bottleneck and there needs to be the relief on an exit from Patriot's Park. She also feels it would be a mistake to take away any extra grass areas to put up covered picnic areas. More people enjoy the open space by bringing blankets, picnic supplies and being able to move around freely. The covered picnic areas only accommodate a . few people at a time versus the open grass area that can be enjoyed by everyone. Andrew McGonaele. 2625 Princeton Avenue — Feels the consultants have done a great job and that the general consensus is in favor of this Plan. He said that traffic study should help relieve some of the traffic concerns expressed by many citizens. Hollv Re.noids. 204 Davis Street, said that the Plan has many benefits, however she feels there still remains many concerns that are not represented in this Plan, She is against the addition of concession stands, feels naturally unpaved areas should remain and minimization of any additional paving for wider walkways. She agrees with all traffic and safety concerns for pedestrians mentioned previously. Maureen Glosso. 901 Hinman said that she is pleased with Plan and the emphasis on green issues. She expressed her concern for water safety, with regards to expansion of boat usage and other commercial uses proposed for the Lakefront. End of Citizen Comments Ald. WNnne commended the consultants and all their .work done on the Lakefront Plan. She asked what the process is from here once the tragic study has been done. Mr. Gaynor informed the Committee that the City has received a grant from the State to begin implementation from Lee Street to the Clark Street Beach in the amount of S550,000. This is in addition to the City's 2005 Strategic Plan committing S300,000 in support of this project. He said the visioning process has been an extensive public involvement and the emphasis will be a continuation of public input if this Plan is supported by Council and moves forward. Special P&D Committee Meeting Minutes — 01/22/08 Page 4 Aid. Wynne said that she is particularly in favor of the redesign of the curve around Calvary Cemetery and she asked if there is any idea of when this part of the plan can be implemented. Mr. Gaynor summarized an approximate time frame he would hope to start implementation of the project. Aid. Wynne would like to see this part of the project started as soon as possible. Aid. Wynne stated in her opinion, that it would create a much more dangerous situation by closing off Patriot Park with a cul-de-sac. She suggested that this situation be reconsidered. Mr. Gaynor assured that this matter will be taken into consideration in the upcoming traffic study as well as all the other comments and concerns pointed out this evening. The consultant, Mr. Greg Weykamp verified that several optional plans will be reviewed in the traffic consultant's study. Mr. Gaynor noted that no plans have been confirmed regarding the addition of any commercial/restaurant usage in the Lakefront PIan; there has only been discussion. However, there has been discussion and a consensus to rid usage of the truck concessions currently used at the Lighthouse Beach with smaller kiosk type concession stands. Aid. Tisdahl stated that she is very uncomfortable .with supporting or voting on this Plan ahead of conducting the needed Traffic Study. She also agrees with no addition of any commercial uses, however, she is in favor of replacing the concession trucks used at the Lighthouse Beach. Aid. Moran stated that he also sees no necessity of any additional concession stands along the lakefront. He agrees wit the Lincoln Street Overlook and dune restorations. In his opinion, the restrooms can use upgrading and renovation but not total replacement. He likes the current . design and certain nostalgia of these buildings and suggest maybe adding the green roofs. Aid. Moran expressed some concern .with the Sheridan Road redesign. lie's worried about taking away 2-lanes down to 1-lane traffic. He reminded that this throughway can be heavily used during peak hours and there has not been a great amount of success with reducing lanes where the result usually causes bottleneck traffic. Aid. Bernstein questioned the time frame for passage of State approval to acquire the funding through the Illinois Transportation Enhancement Program. He asked staff what the provisions arc. Mr. Gaynor responded that all grant applications require an approved Master Plan and concept be completed and submitted before the Department of Transportation can accept for State approval. Once achieved, the State «ill draw down the funds and they can move forward with the implementation state. Aid. Wallin agrees with Aid. «'ynne's position regarding the need for exiting from Patriot Park; ed she is opposto the cul-de-sac design. From comments made earlier, site questioned the addition of the covered picnic areas because that is not clarified anyvdiere in this PIan. Mr. Gaynor concurred that was only a suggested option that %%as discussed. Aid. Wollin supports the restroom improxements and enlargement from the current buildings. The proposed design seems safer than the current buildings as veil. The current restroonis are insufficient and in dire need of replacement. She supports some type of concession availability and .would like to see sonic type of safety element added to these structures considering staff that has to handle money. In her opinion, overall this is an extraordinan• Plan that is proposed and she supports the Traffic Study and moving forward with tite implementation of the next Pha-w to come. She feels this Plan is more passive than aggressive for the lakefront vicinity. Special P&D Committee hieeting Minutes — 01 WO8 Page 5 Aid. Holmes first commended the consultant's work on this proposed Lakefront Corridor Plan and staffs involvement and administration in moving this process in a timely manner. She encourages enforcement of the traffic concerns and obvious violations expressed by many citizens this evening as well as the many safety concerns for pedestrians that need to be addressed immediately. She does not see the need to wait for any traffic study to be done before asking the Police Chief to look into these concerns now. Mr. Gaynor assured that he will pass this request on to Chief Eddington. Aid. Woilin agreed. Aid. Moran questioned the need for a cul-de-sac on Judson because he feels there is a fairly significant amount of traffic on this street. He request that this matter be considered in the traffic study. Also he feels one of the worse traffic and pedestrian safety problems pointed out this evening is at Davis Street. He supports the idea given previously by Mr. Pyne be a consideration for an underpass at this location. Aid. W-mat noted that the addition of having a 4-way traffic stop at the intersection of Hamilton and Forest significantly helped a very dangerous situation. She said this intersection was averaging 1 accident per week before the 4-way stop signs were installed. This is something else that might help somewhat at the Davis Street intersection. Aid. Joan -Baptiste moved approval of Resolution 7-R-08 adopting the Evanston Lakefront Corridor Master Plan, seconded by Aid. Wynne. Chair Hansen expressed her appreciation for the proposed new bike paths being separated from the pedestrian paths. She feels this is a definite improvement and benefit for the lakefront. She • also agrees with Aid. Wollin and Wynne's position that the cul-de-sac design on Judson and at Patriot Park; will be detrimental to traffic flow and cause more problems than solving. She suggests that the 1-way traffic would be much calmer and should be continued on these streets. Chair Hanstm agrees with the addition of restrooms buildings being located at entry points to the beach areas for convenience as well as safety for the public. She strongly opposes any underpass as a solution to pedestrian safety because she feels they create more of an unsafe condition in the long run and could be a very costly solution as well. All consideration should be given to rectifying the concerns expressed by many citizens this evening with traffic problems and safety for pedestrian crossing. Mr. Gaynor informed the Committee that if this Plan is adopted, it will complete Phase 1 and the nest phase will proceed with the Traffic Study snd engineering phase followed b% the contracting and construction administration phase. The vote Ras 9-0 in favor of the motion. ADJOURNMENT The meeting was adjourned at 9:27 p.m. Respectfuli`• submitted, JacquK;naE. Brownlee Planning & Development Committee Minutes o(J2n=7 29, 2008 Council Chambers — 6:30 p.m. Evanston Civic Center Alderman Present: S. Bernstein, D. Holmes, A. Hansen, L Jean -Baptiste, E. Moran, A. Rainey, E. Tisdahl, C. Wollin Alderman Absent: M. Wynne Staff Present: J. Wolinski. J. Aiello, J. Brownlee. J. Carroll, J. Chambers, K. Cox, B. Dunkley, D. Marino, R. Russell, D. Spicuzza, L. Woods Presiding Official: Alderman Hansen DECLARATIO` OF 01TORUNI Chair Hansen called the meeting to order at 6:55 p.m. APPROVAL OF THE, JANUARY 14. 2009 MEETING NIINNUTES Ald. Moran moved approval of the January 14, 2008 meeting minutes, seconded by Ald. Tisdahl. The minutes were approved with a vote of 8-0. ITEMS FOR CONSIDERATION (P1) Ordinance 5-0-08 — Central Street Plan Implementation — Text Amendment fP2) Ordinance 6-0-05 — Central Street Plan Implementation — MaD Amendment Chair Hansen gave an update from where they left off at the last meeting on January 14'h. She reminded that this zoning issue involving the property at 1620 Central has nothing to do with the PACE Program itself or its operation. She %ill allow citizen comments regarding the PACE Program but will give more consideration to comments trade on the zoning issues regarding the Central Street Plan. Citizen Comments Susan Yount, 1624 Central Street — spoke on behalf of 9 town homes surrounding 1620 Central. Concern for property de -value with students living there. Kathleen Ward. 1604 Central — said that she is the President of her Condo Association and represents all 6-units. Concerns for property being taken off tax roll. Ken Bailer•, 1602 Central represents many property owners surrounding the 1620 Central location. They strongly feel that if the zoning for this property --vas not in the Plan that was finalized on December 6, 2007. then it should not be in the Plan presented for Council approval. Therefore, they request a text amendment to eliminate "Additional Permitted uses (A) and Additional Special Uses (B) for Sub area 3 contained in Table 1: Additional Uses. Read from prepared statement available in Community Development Administration Office). Mr. Bailey P&D Commincc !Meeting Minutes of Janury 2S. 2008 Page 2 also presented the Committee with a folder full of letters from several Central Street property neighborhood property owners supporting this request for the text amendment. Joe Beaulieu_ 2530 Ashland Avenue said his property directly abuts the 1620 Central property. He appreciates iir. Lawler's representation of the PACE Program and their proposal for said property and also realizes that a worse scenario could go there with a much more detrimental use to the surrounding prMcnics. However, dormitory use was not Icft out of the 01 Zoning District by mistake; it should not be an allowed use in this district. He also argues that proper notification was not given for this change in text amendment to the Central Street Master Plan. Jacaui Black. 1626B Central - agrees with all comments made in opposition of the proposed dormitory use. 1620 Central Street building has always been an office building and use for over the past 20 years and should remain with that use. She expressed concerns that the current uses on the alley produce heavy traffic and a dormitory use will only worsen that effect. John Walsh. 2730 Harwell. Vice President of the Central Street Neighbor's. He supports the Ordinance this evening for the Central Street Corridor Overlay District and Zoning Map Amendment. He urges passage of these ordinances with or without the dormitory uses. He does not want to see the moratoriums extended any more time. Andrew Ludineton feels the amendment made after the Plan was presented in its final draft, is a miscue of zoning. Agrees that PACE Program and students would probably be good neighbors, but this is not the iss= here. Any dormitory use of the 1620 Central site would be inappropriate. George RitzIin. 1937 Central, owns a retail store at this location. tic supports the passage of Ordinance's 5 & 6 to move forward with the implementation of the Central Street :Master PIan. He noted that most of the sales for his store are from outside Evanston clients, therefore he would like to see the streem=pe improvements made in accordance with the Plan. tie read from a prepared statement. (Reoresentati.es for PACE. Prom or sneaking on behaiforthe PACE: Pro ram Mr. Jack Lawler. Lezo representative for National Louis University and PACE Program. He is also an Evanston residtnt. lie gave background on the PACE Program and its 21-year history. Also present on behalf of PACE Program: Carol Bums, Specialist for PACE Program, Bill Roberts, Facilities %i.m=gcmcnt for National Louis Univ., Patrick Hughes -- Activist in support of PACE students and grmduates, Students: Nat Smith and Courtney Larimer. Graduate: Ira \Iitchcll. Mr. Lawler explained Labe proposal for the dormitory use of 1620 Central Street. Richard Flcer. Southessr Evanston r"idcnt - said he is in favor of and supports the PACE Program and dormiti%-ti- use for the 1620 Central property. He spoke of change in all municipalities and ci: rs. He feels Evanston is unique; the location would be convenient for PACE students that s�•.c public transportation. lie stressed that with change comes new cars, sometimes morn can, new people. and some noise even. He feels this is all part of City living and should be expected- Does not mean they will be bad neighbors or can not work something out that would be suitable for all involved. P&D Cornrnnre Meeting �Sinutes of January 28, 2008 Page 3 Pat Huaho,. 1317 Livingston - spoke in support of PACE Program, its students and graduates. A graduate has become one of his best friends over the years. He feels it is important of the fact of who would be occupying the 1620 Central Street building as a dormitory use. He has the utmost confidence in the staff they runs the PACE Program and the conduct of these students and that they would be a very good asset to the neighborhood. End Citizen Comments Mr. Dunkley reminded the Committee that Whether the dormitory use is included as a Special Use or not, it will still require a zoning application and the process following with public notification, hearings and on to Council for final approval. It still remains up to the Council's discretion of what is allowed in the zoning District. Several Committee members questions why this u,as not done durins; from the beginning. Mr. Dunkley said that several changes were made over the time from the beginning of implementation and the first draft up until the final draft presented December 6. 2007. Aid. Jean -Baptiste asked when this dormitory use and proposal for this property came about. fir. Dunkley responded that a consultation with the Alderman of the ward occurred followed by the recommended change for that Sub area. Aid. Rainey believes all the opposition has everything to do with the PACE Program. She said it has been tesn'fted from a previous meeting that the property is under contract therefore the zoning for this panel is probably crucial for the purchase agreement. If this contract does not go through and the PACE Program does not purchase the property, there Would be nothing to prevent another institution use to go there. Aid. Wollin pointed out that it seems like the building has been vacant for some time now. The building is equipped with a huge parking lot behind the building, therefore it would be ideal for another offl,.�c use to locate there. Aid. Tisdahl stated that she has discussed payment -in -lieu of taxes with National Louis University if they were to purchase the building, however NLU representatives said this would not be possible. Mr. Dunkley reiterated that Council does not have to grant any special uses, which goes for National Louis's interest in the building as a dormitory use. Therefore, lie again underscored that whether this use is added as a special uses or not, it should not effect moving forward with this ordinance as presented. Mr. Wolinski added that a Master Plan is actually a model of concepts for a specific area and the zoning aspect is an enforcement tool for that Plan. He clarified the process and thhat it is not unusually throughout for new ideas and concepts to be throne in all the way up to the -1 1`' hour". Aid. Bernstein moved to approve Ordinance 5-0-08 for the Central Street Plan Implementation - Text Amendment, seconded by Aid. Tisdahl. The vote was 8-0 In favor or the motion. Aid. Bernstein moved to approve Ordinance 6-0-08 for the Central Street Plan Implementation - lisp Amendment, seconded by Aid. Tisdahl. The vote was 8-0 in favor of the motion. (P4) Ordinance 16-0-08 - Extendine the Moratorium on the Issuance of Buildine Permits for new construcron on Central from Ashland to 2200 Central THIS ITEM NNAS WITHDRAWN. PSD Committee Merting Minutes of January 28, 2008 Page -t (P5) Ordinance 17-0-08 — Extending the Moratorium on the Issuance of Building Permits for new construction on Central from Green Bav Road from Isabella to Lincoln THIS ITE3t NVAS WITHDRAWN, (P3) Reauest for 5300.000 in HOME Funds — Grant for Three Affordable Condominium Ownership Units — 2.31 Callan Avenue It was first noted that the Housing commission recommends funding of 5250,000 rather than the 5300,000 being requested by the applicant. Ald. Rainey stated her opposition to this project. She is appalled that they are being asked to fund $300,000 to provide assistance to provide 3-units of affordable housing out of a 5-unit building. On top of that, these proposed units are only 950 square feet. She underscored that this is not an affordable housing project_ There arc still many condominium units on the market that the City has funded for affordable pricing to qualified buyers and they still remain empty. She feels this project would only add to this problem. especially with the price the applicant is proposing to list for affordable purchase. She reiterated that this is an inefficient and uneconomical project. Aid. Rainey continued by pointed out two buildings in the same area that the City has funded for affordable housing projects. 620 Mulford and 737 Brummel. In the Mulford building she has been told that units were urx3er contract but no closings have occurred and the units still remain empty. She pointed out this 241 Callan is right around the comer from 620 Mulford, which males no Iogical sense to have that many available affordable housing units for sale. Aid. Rainey is also against only hawing affordable housing units available to purchase in specified areas and buildings. In her opinion, those that qualify to purchase affordable housing should have the freedom of choice in Iocations and neighborhoods throughout the City of Evanston. This is why she is in favor of subsidizing the family instead of the developer to build affordable housing in only certain areas of town. Mr. Veil Davidson gave the Committee some background information on his project. He started the project back in September, 2007 with the demolition and gutting of the interior of the building. His bank gave him a mandate to sell 2 units at market price which he had done with 2 buyers under contract. He noted that the City is requiring him to put in the fire suppressant system that he was told only needed for buildings of 6 units or more. however no he has been told by staff that requirements we for 3 units or more. fie insisted that staff told him back in September that they supported this project so he went forward because of this reassurance. Mr. Wolinski clarified that w hat was presented to staff by Mr. Davidson at that time did seem doable, however the proposal presented to the Housing Commission and before the Committee this evening, was not supported by staff. Ald. .%Toran moved to amend the request from 5300,000 to 5275,000, seconded by Aid. Jean - Baptiste. This motion was not supported. Aid. Rainey reiterated her strong opposition to this project or any other afTordable housing project in that immediate vicinity. There is already an overabundance of affordable units still available for purchase. She pointed out that the applicant has testified that he has two units for market price under currently under contract. Therefore maybe he can sell the other 3 at market price, including the one in the basement. Aid. Jean -Baptiste moved to hold this Item in Committee to allow the applicant to come back with better figures, seconded by Aid, Wollin. The motion was approved. PfiD Comarittee Mccting Minutes of January 28. 204E Page 5 Ald. Rainey requested that any realtors present or who read about this issue, please get in touch with her. She would like to see a Iist of available units in Evanston in the price range of 5285,000 with 2 bedrooms/2 baths. ADJOUR\11ENT The meeting %%-as adjourned at 8:58 p.nL Respectfully submitted, Jacqueline E. Brownlec Planning & Development Committee Minutes of February 11, 2008 Council Chambers — 6:30 p.m. Evanston Civic Center Alderman Present: S. Bernstein, D. Holmes, A. Hansen, L. Jean -Baptiste, A. Rainey;.E. Tisdahl, C. Wollin, M. W}mne Alderman Absent: E. Moran Staff Present: J. Wolinsb:i, J. Aiello, J. Brownlee, J. Chambers, K:�Cox,il3., Dunkley,4S. Janusz, J. Murphy, C. Ruiz, R. Russell Presiding Official: Alderatart Holmes DECLARATION OF QUORUM Chair Holmes Called the meeting to order at 7:16 p.m. APPROVAL OF THE JANIiARY 22. 2008 SPECIAL MEETING 51INUTES ANT, REGULAR MEETING INSINITFS OF JANUARY 28, 2008 Aid. Jean -Baptiste moved approval of both sets of minutes, seconded by Aid. Wynne. Both meeting minutes were approved %vith a vote of 8-0. 0 ITEMS FOR CONSIDERATION (Pl) -Request fp_r 5300.000 in HOXIE Fu do s •— Grant for Three Affordable Condominiurn Ownershin Units —241 Callan Avenue Chair Holmes announced that staff has informed her of the applicants request to be removed from the agenda this evening and to come back at the next scheduled P&D meeting or the first meeting in March. The applicant has also indicated that he will be amending his plan as well. P221 Ordinance 24-0-08 — Rescinding, the Evanston Landmark Desi Rae tion from the Proncrty at 1218 Elmwood Avenue Mr. Wolinski gave background information on the property as outlined in the .Agenda Item Summary. He noted on June 20, 2006 the Preservation Commission denied the Certificate of Appropriateness for the demolition of the landmark property on this site. The property owner followed with an appeal application on July 20, 2006 and on August 14, 2006 the P&D Committee approved a motion to hear the appeal. The hearing was field on September 11, 2006 and the City Council passed a motion to reverse the Preservation Commission's denial due to proven evidence that the condition of the property was virtually impossible to rehab given the mold and structural problems. %ir. Wolinski stated that the property was demolished however the land is still listed with a landmark designation which would require any construction to be approved by the Preservation Commission. On December 6, 2007, the owner submitted an application to rescind the landmark designation and the Preservation Commission held a public hearing resulting in a recommendation to the City Council to rescind the landmark status. Aid. Bernstein noted from the Preservation Commission minutes that the owner is being requested to put a sign on the property listing the historical significance. He does not feel this should be a requirement of the owner but instead a right to choose whether they want to purchase PRD Commiiicc Mte. Minutes of-11-OS - Page 2 a sign to be placed on their property. Therefore he requested that this be stated in the ordinance so as not to appear like it is requirement of the owner. With this Aid. Bernstein moved approval, seconded by Aid. Wynne. Ms. Anne Diener, 1034 Sheridan, member of the Preservation Commission, explained the Commission's position with the requested signage. The find this property to have a very important historical significance because the house on this site was the home of the first principal and superintendent of Evanston Township High School. The Commission suggested a boulder or a sign of reasonable size with a communication recognizing this historical significance and the owner agreed to this. Ms. Dienner assured that this %was an agreement more so than a requirement. Aid. Bernstein still felt that in the manner it mus done it appears to be a requirement of the owner and is somewhat an overstepping of the Preservation Commission's position. He just wants it clarified that the owner is not obligated to place a sign on the property stating the historical designation unless they choose to do so. The vote was 8-0 in favor of the motion. (P3} Ordinance 30-0-08 — Preservation Fee Ordinance ` Ald. Wynne moved approval of Ordinance 30-0-08, seconded by Aid: Tiadahi. The motion was approved ww-ith a vote of 8-0 in favor. (F'4) Ordinance 31-0-08 — Licensinst of Rental Dweliiniz Units Aid. Rainey moved approval, seconded by Aid. Wollin. Mr. Wolinski informed the Committee that this issue was proposed by staff to Council a number of years ago but was never conclusive and subsequently tabled on the agenda. Stall is again bringing this back before the P&D Committee for consideration and recommendation for approval. He said that staff supports a rental licensing fee program because it is a form of assurance to renter that the licensed unit meets the minimum standards of the International Property Maintenance Code, Fire Prevention Code and City Health Codes. Mr. Wolinski noted that the City currently inspects approximately I4,000 apartment rental units on a cyclical basis but does not charge for this service. In the CDBG Target Area there arc approximately 3,000 rental units that are inspected on a 2-2 V% year schedule; all other rental units are on a 4 year cycle. He explained that although the Housing Code Compliance Division received CDBG support funding for the Target Area inspections, there is no inspection revenue and should not be considered as cost recovery revenues. Mr. Wolinski said that staff feels this licensing of rental units wilt help solve some of the on- going issues with problem buildings and problem tenants and unresolved compliance issues with some of these landlords. Previously the Property Maintenance Code citations went before the Circuit Court which usually resulted in a slow process %hereas the city did not always receive relief after having some of these cases on court over a timely period. Thereafter, the Property Maintenance citations were heard by the Administrative Adjudication hearing process and staff thought this would help expedite enforcing compliance. However, with Administrative Adjudication, liens were placed on properties but these liens were rarely collected until the sale of the property and many buildings still remained in non-compliance and on -going problem issues. Also, many buildings end up being boarded and remain vacant for long period of time becoming blight in the neighborhood. Air. Wolinski stated that this licensing fee for rental units can be considered as a privilege instead of a right by these problem landlords and can be a strong tool for 40 City Staff to gain compliance in a timelier manner. This program can allow the City to revoke P&D Committee %Ite. Minutes of2•11-08 Page 3 the license of a rental unit so that unit can not be rented until compliance is obtained. Under this proposed Ordinance, a license may be revoked by the Director of Community Development for the following reasons: • Violation by the owner or his/her agent of the terms of this Chapter • If the owner of the relevant dwelling unit is judged to be maintaining a nuisance premise in violation of Section 9.5-4 of the City Code. If the unit has been deemed to be vacant under the Vacant building Ordinance. • If the City or other government agency condemns or vacates the rental dwelling unit, or the premises wherein the dwelling unit is located. Prior to revolving a license, the Director of Community Development will convene a revocation hearing with the owner and Property Standards staff, allowing the owner to rebut the City's evidence supporting rcv=tion. The Director shall issue a written decision constituting a final decision upon the revocation hearing for purposes of judicial review pursuant to the Administrative Review Law of Illinois. An appeal by the owner will go before the Circuit Court. Citizen Comments Dan Schermerhorn said he objects to this Licensing of Rental Dwelling units ordinance. First, he complimented Mr. Wolinski's Property Standard's staff for their current inspection program and process; that it has worked well in his opinion over the years. He feels the tools are already in place to gain compliance from these problem landlords: Health issues should be governed and • enforced by the Health Department regulations and for problem tenants and nuisance problems should be handled and enforced by our Police Department. He has a problem with the Community Development Director, along with Property Standards staff, hearing the revocation cases; the hearings should be handled by a non -partial person. Mr. Schermerhom reiterated his opinion as he has stated when this ordinance .was proposed a few years ago, that it is very penalizing to those landlords and building owners who do take care of their properties, which are the majority in Evanston. Mary Kav Manachan works for a prop", management company from Schiller Park. She has no problem with the City inspection program, however it should not be licensed. Instead buildings should be recistered, this way the significant information needed on each property owner/landlord will be on fle if legal action is required. She strongly feels this fee per unit will only raise the cost of living because the landlord ►%ill pass this cost on to the tenant. Albert Bowen, o►%ms several buildings in Evanston. He has been a resident for over 60 years and says the cost of owning rental property is already too high and is getting harder and harder to rent and maintain the buildings. He also strongly feels this fee will be passed on to the tenant and will onh• make it even harder to rent units. Soon no one will be interested in renting in Evanston because they can rent cheaper in other communities. Betty Sue Ester, 2114 Darrow, said that this fee is adding a cost to people who can not afford it; the tenants. She also agrees with the comments made previously that this fee mill only be passed onto the tenant. She pointed out that Evanston has a Nuisance Ordinance that is in place to assist the landlord in removing bad tenants and this method does not cost the landlord anything. She said there are already too many fees and cost to Evanston residents for almost everything. All these fees only discourage people from wanting to live here. P&D Committee ` w Minutes of 2-1 I-0s T Page A Anna Dihlarco, 1041 Ridge Court, asked if there have been any public meetings held with property owners and landlords regarding this licensing fee. Mr. Wolinski informed her that this has been a 10 year on -going matter and several meetings have been held over the years. Ms. DiNfarco suggested that a panel of property owners be formed to consider any types of fees and costs proposed that will affect home and building owners and landlords. This Committee should also be the body to hear any revocation cases, instead of City staff. She also noted that this licensing of rental dwelling units will make it harder to sell their buildings in the future as well. End of Citizen Comments Aid. Bernstein said that he has no problems with registering buildings because the $40 fee per rental unit seems unreasonable in his mind. He agrees with the comments made that this cost will only be passed onto the tenants. He raised several questions on the amount of money being collected for rooming house fees with only 88 room houses in Evanston. Mr. Janusz informed that the rooming house fee is S160 per building and a S26.00 fee per roomer. Aid. Bernstein stated that other than being a revenue production, he does not see what real benefit there is to this fee program. He is more in favor of having some type of building registration in place. Aid. Rainey supports this proposed ordinance for licensing of rental dwelling units. She described some of the horrible building situations in her ward that have been on -going and one building that is virtually out of control. This building is owned by a landlord that they have taken to court, put fines on the building but the property remains out of control with no expeditious w-ay to ratify these problems. She realizes that the majority of rental building owners do keep up their properties but those few problem buildings make it bad for everyone. She feels this fee can help the overall quality of life in Evanston because these problem buildings, landlords and tenants • mostly effect the surrounding residents and the neighborhood. Aid. Rainey said that she would like to bring these neighbors of those problem buildings in to testify to the horror and awful conditions they have to live with every day. Aid. Jean -Baptiste stated that he does agree with the proposal to license rental dwelling units however the fee needs to be more cognizant to landlords that are already struggling to rent their units. He would support assistance or a lesser fee amount for those landlords who can show a case of hardship. Aid. Bernstein questioned why the Administrative Adjudication hearing process would continue to slow the process down in assisting City staffs enforcement to obtain compliance with these problem landlords. He said the Cite needs adjudication officers that will help expedite compliance; this hearing division was formed to alleviate the timely process experienced with the Circuit Court proceedings. He also feels the City needs to be more aggressive in enforcing our current ordinances in place and in the collection of fines and liens. Mr. Wolinski defended that City staff have the constant burden of being the aggressor in most cases against property owners, the court system and sometimes even other government offices and agencies. Aid. Wollin noted that there are so many students that are being taken advantage of by these scrupulous landlords and illegal rooming house buildings. She would like to see this problem rectified by either some type of licensing or building registration program. Aid. Hansen pointed out there are several laws, regulations and existing ordinances that should help alleviate and assist City staff' with these problem buildings, however they are not being P&D Committee Mtu. Minutes of 2-11-0s ' . Page 5 utilized and enforced. She does not see how a licensing fee for every rental dwelling unit will help improve or ease gaining compliance from these few bad landlords. After discussion, the Committee requested that staff address some of the concerns brought to attention this evening including: 1) question of the Community Development Director being the revocation hearing officer, 2) registering buildings versus the licensing of rental units, alternatives to the $40 flat fee per unit, possibly having a graduated fee scale. The vote was 7 in favor or the motion to introduce and bring back to allow stalls response, 1 voting nay (Hansen). (P5) Ordinance 32-0-08 — Plan Commission Recommendation for a Man Amendment and Planned Development at 708 Church Street The Committee discussed setting a special meeting to allow sufficient time to hear the developer's presentation and citizen comments all in meeting. The date of Monday, March 17 was suggested. Mr. Steve Friedland, Legal representative for the developer, asked if they can sta� on the regularly scheduled Planning & Development Committee meeting dates of February 25 or March 10, 2008 because March 176 is over a month away. Ms. Aiello reminded the Committee that the Apartment Licensing Ordnance needs to be heard and concluded on February 25'" because it is a budget item. The March 10 h meeting would be the earlier date to begin hearing this case. With this in mind, the Committee agreed to put this item on the March 10* agenda and leave the March 17'b date open for a special meeting if needed. Aid. Bernstein moved to hold this item on the agenda, seconded by Aid. Wynne. The vote was 8-0 in favor of the motion. AWOMWENT The meeting was adjourned at 8:40 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Jacqu line. Brownlee • 0 Planning & Development Committee Minutes of February 25, 2008 Council Chambers — 6:30 p.m. Evanston Civic Center Alderman Present: S. Bernstein, D. Holmes, A. Hansen, L. Jean -Baptiste, E. Moran, A: Rainey, E. Tisdahl, C. WollK M. Wynne Staff Present: J. Wolinski, J. Brovmlee, J. Chambers, K. Cox, A. Jackson, S.,Janusz, D. Marino, D. Spicuaa Presiding Official: Alderman Holmes DECLARATION OF OUORUbi Chair Holmes called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. Mr. Wolinski announced ibis. Arlova Jackson's resignation from the City as Zoning Planner, she has accepted a job with the Planning Department for Washington, D.C. Ms. Jackson thanked the Committee for having the opportunity to work with each member and will miss them. She has learned a lot and has gained new knowledge working with the City of Evanston that she will take with her. The APPROVAL OF THE. REGULAR MEETIriG MINUTES OF FEBRUARY 112008 Aid. Wynne moved approval of the February l Vh minutes, seconded by Aid. Tisdahl. meeting minutes were approved with a vote of 9-0. ITEMS FOR CONSIDERATION Chair Holmes announced that item (P3) will be held in Committee. (P1I Ordinance 31.0.08 — LicensinQ of rental Dwelling Up its Air. Wolinski recalled in concerns and changes requested by the Committee that staff look into. One concern was for a graduated fee scale, which staff' does not support. Staff does recommend the following: 1) Amending the fee from $40 to S25 per unit 2) Charging a "no show' fee of S I SO for inspection appointments made and the owner or their representative fails to show up without prior notification. This has been one of the biggest problems with the inspection program which staff estimates approximately =0% of scheduled inspection appointments result in no shows. This is a common practice and similar fee in other licensing communities such as Aurora. 3) Staff is also recommending a re -inspection fee of S75 if all code violation have not been rectified by the se-cond re -inspection date. There is currently no fee for any re -inspections. Air. Wolinski gave the estimated yearly revenue that the recommended changes mould result in. License Fee Qa S25 x 14,000 units = S330,000, "No Show" Fee @ 20% x 3,000 buildings P&D Committer Mtg. Minutes of 02-25-08 Page 2 x S 150 = S90,000. Second Re -inspection Fee (approx.) - 560,000. TOTAL YEARLY i REVENUE S500.000. In comparison the estimated revenue from a Graduating License Fee (See chart of graduated fees listed in staffs memorandum) would come to apprummately $191,485. Another concern raised by the Committee was the fact of the Community Development Director being the license revocation hearing officer. Mr. R'olinski noted that staff recommends the hearing officer be the City manager or her designee; not any official from the Community Development Department_ Lastly, the Committee questioned if the concept of registering properties versus licensing would be a better approach as an enforcement mechanism. IMr. Wolinski said that staff's opinion is that registering would not provide the same enforcement tool that licensing could provide because it would be viewed as simply a revenue source and allow no ability for the City to revoke the use of rental units as a penalty until the owner complies_ He noted that if a license is revoked the owner has the right to appeal to the Circuit Court and stay the order until the court makes a final decision. He said the owner would have to initiate all legal action and prove their case to have the decision overturned. Aid. Rainey moved approval of Ordinance 314MB with the following amendments:' 1. Remove the Community Development Director as the bearing officer to the City Manager's Office or designee; 2. reduce the Licensing fee from S40 per unit to $25; 3. Add the "No Show" fee of S150; and 4. Add a re-inspeclon ree of S75 after the second re -inspection date. • Aid. Wollin seconded the motion. Aid. Bernstein questioned the notification process to the owners as far as giving sufficient time before the initial inspection date as was as sufficient time to make code violation corrections. Mr. Janusz responded that inspection date letters are sent out 1¢ class mail approximately 14 days before the scheduled appointment date. He said that staff would require the owner to call in 48 hours beforehand if they nerd to cancel the appointment, at least 24 hours notice. Aid, Bernstein recommended that this information should be clearly stated in the letter with instructions for calling in to reschedule. Chair Holmes also suggested that inspection appointments be emailed to property owners in addition to mailing whenever possible if staff has this information available. Many of her constituents h3vc indicated to her that this would be very helpful as w•elI. Mr. Janusz agreed and assured that this could be done if staff has the owners email information on file. Aid. Rainey stated that better communication and clearh, defined rules and procedures from City Stall' to property owners could immensely help out with many on -going problem situations with compliance issues. Chair Holmes requested that provisions be given for senior citizens. She suggested a 50% reduction cost with the same requirements and language that qualifies seniors for the vehicle sticker discount_ Mr. Cox read the wording for the Circuit Breaker Program and suggested that this same t%pe of provision be given for seniors, which Chair Holmes agreed to. The Committee discussed their concern with this ordinance actually allowing the City to obtain compliance in a timelier manner. There are still concerns for allowing the property owner sufficient time to fix violations between inspection dates as well as proper notification before the initial inspection date, Aid. Jean -Baptiste questioned the circumstances that surround the "no show" problems and • giving adequate time for the owner to call in. There arc emergency situations that do occur beyond a person's control. Staff assured that reasonable concessions will be considered in all P&D Committee Mtg. Minutes of 02-25-08 Page 3 situations. Aid. Jean -Baptiste asked for more clarification of the implication for revocation of a license. Mr. Wolinski listed the reasons which range from over -occupancy charges, nuisance property problems, refusal to comply with life safety code violations over an extended period of time, etc. He reiterated that there is an appeal process to the Circuit Court for all license revocations. In conclusion to Committee discussion, the consensus was to allow proper and sufficient notification to the owner as well as time to make the needed corrections of any code violations. Ald. Rainey suggested a minimum of 21 days prior notification before the initial inspection. She motioned to amend her original motion on the floor to include that notice be post marked no less than 21 days prior to the initial inspection, seconded by Aid. Wollin. Citizen Comments Due to the large number of citizens signed up to speak in opposition to this ordinance, a summarization of their concerns is stated after the list of people who spoke. List of Ormonents I. Richard Hesketh, 1103 Emerson Avenue 2. Mr. Ramirez, 1110 Darrow Avenue , I Beverly & James Dyer, 1620 Pitner Avenue '= 4. Pokomi, 2013 Ridge Avenue 5. Charlene Bos, 1034 Florence Avenue +{' 6. 7. Jonathan Persky, Parliament Enterprise representative i ' •. Alan Borg, resident 8. Sheldon Rantoff, Parliament Enterprise representative 9: Richard Shure, 1510 Wesley Avenue 10. Jake Goldner, Ritchie Realty/Arthur Goldner Associates representative,-; .,, 11. Paula Tacucci, 2134 Maple Avenue 12. Arlene Brumlik, 1243 Chicago Avenue 13. Judith Godfrey, 1516 Hinman Avenue _ 14. Bernard Hammer, property owner 15. Terry hfeland, 1008 Harrison Stint 16. Ed Banach, 2663 Prairie Avenue 17. Brian Becharas, South Evanston resident, rental property owner 18. N. Olson, rental property owner 19. Steve Mason, 1120 Oak Avenue 20. Dan Schennerhorn, Schermerhorn Realty Management 21. Carlis Sutton, 1821 Darrow Avenue 7-2. Susan Bolotin, rental property owner 23. Ashraf hlanji, rental property owner 24. Seiley Cariilo, rental property owner 25. Albert Bowen, 60 }ear resident and rental property owner 26. Betty Pa%me, 1823 Darrow Avenue rental property, long-time Evanston resident 27. Maria Cano, rental property otiner (read from prepared statement) 28. John Fuller, rental propem• manager 29. Brothella Quick, rental property o�,6ner 30. Candace Kuczmarski, rental property owner, 31. David Janzen, Reba Place properties & ECDA representative P&D Committee Mtg. Minutes of 02-25a Page A In summary, the general concerns and comments from the opposed are listed as follo►vs: • The majority feel the proposed licensing fee for all rental units is unnecessary because there are already ordinances, health rules and regulations, and police enforcement codes in place to deal with problem landlords and nuisance building problems. • Concern for tenant constitutional rights. • High property tuxes and numerous fees that landlords and all property owners already have to pay. • This fee is just another tax on property owners and a revenue source to help relieve the City's budget deficit. • The communities listed that do have a similar licensing fee program in place are no comparison to Evanston's unique and diverse community. • Majority agree that if the City charges a "no show" fee the property owner should be entitled to the same charge against the City, when they are called the day of an inspection and told the inspector needs to cancel due to unforeseen circumstances. Property owners should be given the same consideration for their wasted time as well. • Landlords should not be held responsible for problem tenants when there seems to be no assistance or relief given to the prop", owner to evict these problem tenants from their properties. • This fee will be passed onto the tenant which will aggravate the already existing rental vacancies, rent rates and burden on the landlord to make it attractive to rent vacant units. • Majority concern for landlord rights. A suggestion was made to form a coalition or board of land lordstrental property owners to work with City officials on any rental property rulings, regulations, ordinances and even hearings processing. • Major concern with condo unit owners that rent. These rental unit owners should also be held accountable under the same requirements of listed rental building owners. There needs to be a mechanism in place to regulate condo rentals. • Finally, many opponents would agree to a building registration program versus a licensing fee per all rental units. Prononents 1. Kristin Doll, 141 Custer. She spoke passionately on the problems and nuisance issues she has witnessed and suffered living next to in a building with problem tenants that are totally out of control and the owner having problems getting rid of them. She strongly supports any means that will allow the City to step in and have the authority to shut do►►n buildings and specific rental units with on -going problem issues. 2. David Zabinski. owner of rental property out-of-state in a community that does have a licensing program in effect for rental units. He agrees with not wanting to pay any additional fees or taxes, hotwever the fee is minimal compared to the benefit this program could have overall for the entire City. He feels a licensing program will allow City Officials to have some type of authority to manage problem buildings and obtain more expeditious code compliance. He agrees with City staff that it can be an effective tool for enforcement. f P&D Committee Mtg. Minutes of 02-25-08 Page 5 Aid. Moran reiterated his comments and position in the past in that he is opposed to this licensing fee of rental units. He agrees with all points made that there are already laws and ordinance in place to govern nuisance situations in buildings. Also, the system with Administrative Adjudication and the Circuit Court needs to be looked into if it is not working to help the City achieve compliance in a timely manner. These legal systems should be assisting to gain compliance with code violation issues and problem tenants. A case that keeps being continued over a long period of time should be unheard of. Aid. Rainey supports this ordinance. The licensing fee would be no different that the same fees paid by other businesses; owning rental property is a business. She does agree that legal staff needs to work with Administrative Adjudication if they art: allowing problem situations to continue. They should be working more with City staff towards bringing some of the on- going problems to a conclusion. Aid. Bernstein said that he is more in favor of a registration program over licensing. He agrees with Mr. Manji that we need to change our mindset with the entire inspection cycle. It should not matter whether you arc in a target area, all Evanston rental properties should come under the same guidelines and inspection schedules. He feels in any case, there should be escalating fees for bad landlords and a specified time frame in which to bring properties into compliance, otherwise they should come under the Nuisance Ordinance which allows the City to shut down a building. Also. He feels that if the Administrative Adjudication hearing officer is not working with City staff then we need to look into hiring someone who is wilting to help the City obtain prompt compliance. Aid. Bernstein also has concerns with how the city is going to enforce this ordinance on condo owners that rent. Aid. Hansen reiterated her comments made at the previous meeting, she feels there . are already laws and ordinances in place that should be utilized and enforced by City staff. She has many concerns with the notification process as well and giving a landlord sufficient time to comply. She has listened to the comment made by many citizens and agrees with them as far as charging a no show fee with there seems to be just as many no shows by the inspectors with no prior notification. This problem needs to be rectified by City staff. Aid. Jean -Baptiste said that he has heard from citizen comments that many of the speakers agree to go after the bad landlord and rid the City of problem tenants. it is not fair to penalize the majority because of the minority bad property owners. The City should directly go after those problem landlords and buildings with the laws we already have in place. He said dint staff also needs to Iook into some of the problems and concerns that have been mentioned this evening from citizen comments. Aid. Jean Baptiste is very concerns with the revocation of licensing without necessary due process; this could cause more legal problems for the City rather than solving a nuisance building situation. Aid. Rainey stated that there are serious problems in South Evanston with problem buildings, tenants and landlords that appear almost helpless in rectifying some situations or just plain ignore the City's regulations. She supports staffs efforts that have been trying to do and have made much effort in working with the court system to gain compliance. It is not easy and the revmrds are minimal. Chair Holmes said that site is sorry this matter came about at budget time. She stated for the record that this is important to her and has nothing to do with the existing budget and revenue P&D Committee Mt& Minutes of 02-25-08 Page 6 problems. This matter has been under consideration for many years now. She Supports this ordinance. Aid. Woilin backed Aid. Holmes comments and position. She also feels the fee they arc asking for per unit is minimal, coming to a little more than S2.Oo per unit per month. The vote w•as d voting in favor of the motion (Holmes, Rainey, Wollin, Tisdahl), 5 noting tray (Jean -Baptiste, Wynne, Bernstein, Moran, Hansen). The motion does not pass. (P2) Request for S-50.000 in HOME Funds — Grant for Three Affordable Condominium Ownershin Units -- 241 Callan Avenue Aid. %Vynne motioned to hold this item in Committee until the next scheduled meeting, seconded by Ald. Bernstein. The vote was 9-0 in favor. (P4) Aprimvai of un to $6,000 for Four Condominium Workshons for Evanstoll Condominium Owners Aid. Wynne motioned to hold this item in Committee until the next scheduled meeting, seconded by Ald. Bernstein. The vote was 9-0 in favor. ADJOURNMENT The meeting was adjourned at 9:51 p.m. Respectfully submitted, f..s:.,,li:,l ri .I,:a {•. , !Jill' Jacque 'ne Broi%mice • V, i Planning & Development Committee 1lieeting 1l11nutes of 1liarch 10, 2008 Council Chambers 6:30 p.m. Evanston Civic Center Alderman Present: S. Bernstein, D. Holmes, A. Hansen, L. Jean -Baptiste, E. Moran,' A. Rainey, E. Tisdahl, C. Woiiin (via telephone), M. Wynne Staff Present: J. Wolinski, J. Aiello, J. Brownlee, J. Carroll, J. Chambers, Ki Cox,' B.%; Dunkley, S. Janusz, D. Marino, R. Russell, D. Spicuzza z Presiding Official: Alderman Holmes DECLARATION OF OUORUM Chair Holmes tatted the meeting to order at 7:1 S p.m. She announced a change in the order of ' agenda in effort to attempt getting through all the items before the Committee this evening. She noted that only the presentation from the developers for 708 Church Street would be heard tonight leaving all citizen comments and Committee discussion for the special meeting scheduled next Monday, March 17, 2007. APPROVAL OF TH1F MEETING NIINTlTFS OF FFRRUARY 25.2008 Aid. Wynne moved approval of the March 25* minutes, seconded by Aid. Tisdahl. The meetings, -,- minutes were approved unanimously. ITEMS FOR COM DERATION (P4) Recommendation to Reserve S800.000 in HOME Funds for Four Community Housing Development Oruanizations to Anniv to Proiects in the Next Two Years in Order to prevent Loss of Funds Mr. Wolinski informed the Committee that staff has held s:cveral discussions with HUD representatives who have directed that these funds need to be reserved in order not to loose them by March 31, 2008. In order to comply .with HUD changes regarding commitment regulations, the City must reserve these funds to be used within the next two years. He noted that the CHDO reservations must be made by March 31, 2008 in order to meat HUD commitment deadlines; however the City will still need to approve the use of the reserved funds for any specific projects. Aid. Nforan mowed approval, seconded by Aid. Tisdahl. The vote was unanimous in favor of the motion. (P3) Approval of up to $3.000 for Two Condominium Worksirnns for Evanston Condominium O wncrs Aid. Moran moved approval, seconded by Aid. Wynne. Aid. Rainey said she supports these seminars and feels they are very important for condominium ownership. However, these seminars are being offered free and she suggests that there be some t)pe of fee charged for attendees, maybe per condo association She stated this would be a small cost to pay for such important and valuable information to help the condo owner. Aid. Bernstein agreed. Aid. Wynne also agreed and feels attendees will be willing to pay for what you gain in attending these workshops. P&D Committee Mtg. Minutes of 03-10-08 Page 2 In response to a question from Aid. Hansen, staff informed that they sought out Lakeside � Community Development Corporation to conduct these seminars. Aid. Hansen suggested that Co-op owriership buildings be included to participate in these seminars and requested that staff look into this. Aid. Rainey moved to include charging a fee of Sls per association or attendee for these seminars. Aid. Jean -Baptiste seconded the motion. The vote was 8 in favor of the motion and 1 voting nay (Moran). On the original motion, the vote was 9-0 in favor. (1321 Reauest for S250.000 in HOME Funds — Grant for Three Affordable Condominium Ownershin Units — 241 Callan Avenue Aid. Moran moved approval, seconded by Aid. NVynne. Mr. Steve Engelman, Attorney for the applicant Neil Davidson, addressed the Committee. He noted that since the last meeting this item %%as before P&D, Mr. Davidson has amended his proposal to address some of the concerns expressed by the Committee. The selling price for the affordable units has been lowered from S195,000 and S185,000 to S166,666 with certain original amenities offered being reduced or eliminated. Mr. Engelman asked the Committee to acknowledge Mr. Davidson's history in developing decent affordable housing and providing the opportunity for homeownership in Evanston for low to moderate income families. He further noted that Mr. Davidson's contribution to the affordable housing stock should be commended and supported by City Council. Aid. Rainey again reiterated her opposition for this proposed project which extends beyond just the pricing of these units. However, with regards to the asking price of the units as affordable housing, she pointed out they are only 950 square feet with no eat -in kitchen or separate dining room; offering no real quality living space. In addition, specific amenities have been taken away such as the granite counter tops to a lesser quality flooring, lesser quality cabinets and appliances; all to compensate the developer's reduction in the asking price. Aid. Rainey stressed the point that these units are already substandard in size and offer no real benefit to purchase when you look at the location, the existing building which is nothing special and the fact that it is a rehab project and not new construction like his most recent affordable housing developments, which offered a lot more than these substandard units for practically the same asking price. Aid. Rainey reminded the Committee of the fact that within the same block, there is the 602 Mulford building which the City also subsidized and none of the units have been closed to this date. She further recalled that the City subsidy for 602 Mulford was $686,000 and all 12 units have been vacant for quite some time now. Again, she stressed her point that it is not economicaliv feasible or reasonable to the City to subsidize this proposed project at this location with two completed affordable housing projects -within blocks of each other and all vacant. In addition, the funds being requested per unit are paying for the entire rehab job and offer very little for the asking price, even at S166,666. She feels this is not affordable housing, Aid. Rainey pleaded for the Committee members to consider her strong opposition on this project and not to support this proposal. She stated that her Ward does not need any more affordable housing projects especially since the existing ones are soil vacant and having trouble finding suitable buyers and selling the units. P&D Committee Mtg. Minutes of 03-10-08 Page 3 Aid. Moran expressed his support for funding this project, especially in consideration of Mr. Davidson's notable reputation in providing, marketing and selling all of his affordable housing projects in Evanston. He feels the Committee should support the small number of not -for -profit and even for -profit developers that make the effort to build affordable housing, regardless of the location. Ald. Rainey responded that there are already too many affordable housing projects in her Ward, %%ithin close proximity that are not sold and have remained vacant for a period of time. It does not make sense to approve yet an additional project in the same area. She reiterated her opinion why affordable housing funds should go to the individual families that qualify, allowing them the opportunity to find and choose where they purchase property throughout Evanston. She strongly feels it is unfair to only offer affordable housing at specific locations when there are so many other condominium units on the market throughout Evanston that are being sold at affordable prices, especially if it is subsidized. Aid. Wynne agreed with Ald. Rainey's comments. She informed that Committee of her discussion she has had with Reba Place representatives who expressed that they would not go the same route in developing affordable housing as they did with 602 Mulford. Mr. Engelman again pointed out that Mr. Davidson has a good track record in marketing and offering assistance to qualifying buyers in purchasing his affordable housing units. He has also sold all of his units in a timely period. Aid. Rainey responded that if this developer's track record is so good and he has indicated having contracts on the market value units, then he should have no problem in selling all the units for market value. She stressed that this is not the right time to fund such a project that offers no justification to being feasible affordable housing with the market struggling at the current time. Aid. Tisdahl said that she would support this request but would like to see any further proposals for affordable housing in other locations throughout Evanston besides the specific areas most are currently offered. Site would like to see and supports having a proposal in her Ward in the future. With no further discussion, the vote was 5 in favor of the motion (Wotlin, Jean -Baptiste, Holmes, .Moran, Tisdahl) and 4 voting nay (Wynne, Bernstein, Rainey, Hansen). Motion passed. (PI) Ordinance 32-0-08 — Plan Commission Recommendation for a Man Amendment &. Planned Development at 708 Church Street A presentation from the development team «vas given with Mr. Tim Anderson opening comment and introducing the team members. He acknowledged the representatives from Klutznick-Fisher, Mr. James Klutznick and Maury Fisher, Mr. Steve Friedland, Attorney for the developer, Mr. Larry Booth and other associates from Booth Hansen Architects, representatives from their landscaping Firm and Mr. Eric Russell from KLOA. itilr_ Larr} Booth proceeded with the power -point presentation. He detailed the actual design of the project, showed several views from different locations surrounding the site, several different angles of the proposed building, and the landscaping plans for specific floors, explained the restoration of the existing Hahn Building, and demonstrated wind diagrams and shadow studies. :sir. Eric Russell, principal of KLOA, gave an overview of the traffic study done for peak hours. (A copy of the power -point slides for this presentation is available in the City of Evanston, Community Development Department.) P&D Committee Mtg. Minutes of03-10-08 Page 4 In surimary, the proposal is to construct a 49-story residential tower with the following characteristics: a maximum of 218 dwelling units, approximately 28,650 square feet of retail and office space, a gross floor area of approximately 457,752 square feet resulting in a floor area ratio of 15.77, a maximum building height of 523 feet, and approximately 234 off-street parking spaces. Mr. Steve Friedland, regal representative for the development team, concluded with the public benefits proposed including: TIF increments, preservation of the historic Hahn Building, inclusionary housing contributions, Silver LEED Certification, enhancement of retail core, opportunity to redevelop Fountain Square and architectural quality. He also noted that the developer has agreed to the Plan Commission's conditions as stated under Section 7 of the Ordinance. This concluded die developer's presentation. Chair Holmes said that this item will be continued next Monday, March 17"', at the Special Planning & Development Committee meeting at 6:30 p.m. in the Council Chambers. She %-,711 begin the meeting with citizen comments. f PSl Ordinanre 39-0-08 — Plan Commission Recommendation fora_ Planned Development at 318-320 Demnster Street Aid. Wynne moved appreval, seconded by Aid. Tisdahl. Ms. Anne Earl gave a presentation on the history of this building which is originally an 1890's !. barn. She noted that there are approximately 60 barns in Evanston, the majority being in the Lake Front area. She said that this particular barn is very unique with its 7 small squared windows which means the barn housed up to 7 horses. She Strut into more detail on this particular bam and the historical significance as %vell as other barns throughout Evanston. She supports the proposed development for this building and urges the Committee's support as well. Aid. Wynne expressed her approval of this project and that she is very much in favor of the proposed planned development and use of this building. Chair Holmes noted that she was in attendance at the Plan Commission meeting for this project and agrees with Aid. Wynne's opinion. The vote was 9-0 in favor of the motion. lP61 Ordinance 42-0-08 — Registration of Rental Dwelline Unit Buiidines Mr. Wolinski recalled at the last meeting, lengthy discussion of the possibility of licensing which the Committee and majority of attendees were against. However, there %%as support vocalized for the registration of rental buildings and units. The proposal before the Committee this evening is a fee of S50 per building, per year due annual around the I'a of the year. There would be a 50% discount for senior citizens living in their rental building. with the same qualifications required for the Circuit Breaker program. :fir. Wolinski said that staff supports this Ordinance as presented. Aid. Wynne moved approval, seconded by Aid. Tisdahi. There -.vas discussion regarding amending the ordinance to charge half the proposed fee if the building is under 6-units. Aid. Rainer- suggested that they require the property owner to provide property insurance information with the registration. Nlanr, citizens in the audience were against providing this information to the City feeling their constitutional rights being invaded with too much information. Aid. Wynne would like staff to provide information on the number of building with 6-units or less. Mr. Janusz responded that building with 6-10 units there are 114 P&D Committee Mtg. Minutes of 03-10-08 Page 5 buildings, 2-units approximately 1700 buildings, and 3-units approximately 400 buildings. Chair Holmes said that she is concerned with condo rentals being looked over, they should be required to register their units as well and pay the fee. Staff will look into ways to locate condo rental units. The vote was 8 in favor and 1 voting any (Hansen). ADSOURMIFENT The meeting was adjourned at 8:45 p.m. Respectfully submitted, N--� h.L�' L -. Jacque e E Brownlee • i Planning & Development Committee Meeting Minutes of Msarcb 214, 2008 Council Chambers — 6:30 p.m. E,wmnston Civic Center Alderman Present: S. Bernstein. D. Holmes, A. Hansen, L. Jean -Baptiste, E. Moran; A Rainey, E. Tisdahl, C. Wollin, M. Wynne Staff Present: J. WolinskL J. Aiello, J. Brownlee, J. Carroll, J. Chambers, K'Cox;iB.­ Dunkley. S. Dmzner, D. Marino ,f hl", Presiding OMcial: Alderman Holmes ' T' DECLARATION OF OUORUM Chair Holmes called the meeting to order at 7:05 p.m. She reminded all that the next regularly scheduled meeting for the Planning & Development Committee and City Council will be the Annual Township Meeting which is alw;k%-s held on a Tuesday; date April 8, 2008. APPROVAL OF THE MEETING AIINtTTES OF NIARCH 10, 2008 Aid. Jean -Baptiste moved approval, seconded by Aid. Tisdahl. The meeting minutes were approved unanimously with a vote of 9-0. i ITEMS FOR CONSIDERATION Chairman Holmes changed the order of the agenda beginning with item (P2). (P2) Ordinance 32-0-08 -- Plan Commission Recommendation for a Man Amendment & Planned Development at 708 Church Street Mr. Stove Friedland, Attorney for the applicam: requested on behalf of his client for a continuance regarding the referenced project to the next regularly scheduled P&:D meeting on April 8, 2008. He clarified the purpose for the continuance request is to permit the applicant to revise their plans to address community and aldermanic concerns expressed. He noted that one of the revisions to the plan include reducing the building height as %%ell as some specific financial and public benefit concerns Aid. Moran made a motion to accept the applicants request for a continuance, seconded by Aid. Bernstein. Aid. Jean -Baptiste expressed his concern for adequate time at the April 8d' meeting since that evenine includes the joint Township agenda items. He assumes the applicants revisions to their plan wT1l require the need for a new presentation.tihi:h time should be allotted for. approximately _0-30 minutes. He also said it is % erg• important that the applicant address the financial concerns that have been noted in their tie" presentative as The other Committee members agreed and discussed the options of holding this time over to the second meeting in April or possibly xheduling a special meeting in benx een th:se dates. Ald. Bernstein stated that one of his main concerns is for the applicant to come back with a list of more meaningful public benefits. He could like to see the applicant's revised project address the following public benefits: 1) The overall reduction in square footage for retail and office space; 2) P&D Committee Nit& Minors of March 24, 2008 Page 2 Restoration of the Hahn Building without City funding 3) Silver -level LEED certification, not just trying for it but Actually receiving. Aid. Hansen agreed with Aid. Bernstein's list of concerns that need to be addressed by the applicant- She also questions the procedural directive with the amendments to the plan presented; what is the actual extent of these changes? Is there a need for the plan to go back before the Plan Commission? Aid. Wynne also agreed with the concerns expressed by her fellow Committee members. She looks at the current economic engine that this propem, exudes with the businesses at this location and would like to see the applicant provide a comparison of what they foresee as the replacement economic engine in the proposed Planned Development. She expressed her support with the proposed LEED certification and the "green" contribution presented with this development, however she does agree with Aid. Bernstein's position that Silver -level LEED certification actually be obtained with this project. Ald. Wynne pkzinted out, as an example, Sherman Plaza's huge economic benefit with the public parking garage included with that Planned Development which is a po► -crful economic tool for the downtown district. She agreed with Ald. Hansen's concerns on procedural correctness ►vith regards to if the applicant's amendments to the plan presented may require the need to go back to the Plan Commission for review. Aid. Jean -Baptiste stated that he would like to add to Aid. Bernstein's list the renovation of Fountain Square as a public benefit from this developer. A1d. Wollin responded that she recalls the City orizinally said they would take the responsibility of maintaining and upkeep for the Fountain Square area. Therefore, she questions the right to ask this developer to take on the full responsibility of renovating the Square. She feels it is City Council's responsibility from the beginning on the condition of Fountain Square and the future of Fountain Square as well. We should only expect or request a donation from the developer to the City towards renovation cost for Fountain Square. Aid. Bernstein acknowledged that the applicant has indicated their willingness for such a contribution already. With no further discussion, the vote was 9-0 in favor of the motion to continue this case to April 8, 2008. fP3) Time Extension Request — Ordinance 93-0-03 — Planned Development for 1710 Orrinaton & 1717-1725 Sherman Avenue Aid. Bernstein moved approval, seconded by Aid. Rainey. Mr. Wolinski informed the Committee that although the applicant is requesting a time extension of five years to file for a building permit to complete the residential phase of this project and acknowledge the majority completion of the project as a whole with the hotel phase; staff recommends a to o-. car extension only. Mr. Da►e Reifman, Attonrey for the applicant, made note of the appreciation for staffs recommendation for the two year extension, if the Council sees fit. However, on behalf of the owner and dev eloper of this property, he explained the development of the final residential phase of this project remains critical to the developer's financial ability to complete due to the market conditions and the slowing economy. fie noted that this situation has temporarily delayed the developer's pLms to move forward with the residential phase. Mr. Reifman concluded this is wh% then felt a fi►e rear extension would allow them more than sufficient time to deal with the P&D Committee Mtg. Minutes of March 24, 2008 Page 3 crippling market conditions, however he reiterated that the applicant would be willing to accept staffs recommendation if need be. Aid. Moran said that the developer's situation might warrant the need for more time than a two year extension. He also pointed out that this owner and developer has made a major commitment to%%ards this project with the majority completed on the hotel phase. He suggested that more time be given with the extension. Aid. Moran moved to amend the original motion for a (3) three year extension period, seconded by Ald. Tisdahl. Aid. Bernstein also noted that the owner, Air. DeStefano, has done major work with his hotel renovation without any assistance from the City and should be commended for this. The Committee members agreed. The vote was 9-0 in favor of the motion. fPI) Ordinance42-0-08—RegistrationofRental Residential Buildings Air. Wolinski gave an overview of the changes made by staff as outlined in the staffs memorandum. First. staff was asked to replace the SSO flat fee per building to a graduated fee schedule. The fee schedule ranges from Single Family and Rental Condo units at S20 per building or condo, 24 units at S30 per building, 5-12 units at $50 per building, 13-24 units at $100 per building, 25-50 units at S150 per building, 51-100 units at $300 per building, and 101+ at $500 per building. The consensus of the Committee was in agreement to this fee schedule. Mr. Wolinski reminded that there were concerns raised regarding proper information to request of the owner. It was suggested to eliminate the need for information concerning the mortgage holder and insurance holder on the property and eliminate the need for information on the number of bedrooms in each dwelling unit. He stated that the elimination of either point is not a problem because the City can have other sources to ascertain information if necessary. Mr. Cox noted that one of the sources of information can be obtained through Real Estate Transfer Stamps, which the City of Chicago has a model that can be used as an example. Citizen Comments Howard Handier, representative of the North Shore Association of Realtors. said this ordinance is acceptable except for the following provision: 1) in Section 5-8-3: Registration Required, (A) (2) regarding the age requirement from 21 to 18. He questions why Evanston should go above and beyond the ruling already set by Cook County. Tina Paden. 1 122 Emerson, said that she resents the statement that +vas made at the last meeting that if you can't afford to pay $50 per building then the landlord is in the wrong business. She informed the Committee that she has paid over 580,000 in property taxes for the past year and should not have to pay any extra fees for an% of her property that should not be taken care of with the huge amount of money property ov6ners pa% each %ear to the City of Evanston in tax dollars. She disagrees with the City requesting information regarding proof of insurance; this is too much information. Most property owners have to be insured because of their mortgage, and other reasons. Aid. Bernstein said that when it comes to tenant's safety, the City does have the right to ask the building owner to show proof of insurance. Aid. Hansen said that she is still going to vote no to the ordinance. She still stands firm on the fact that the City° has many programs. regulations and ordinnnces in etl'ect that they are not P&D Committee Mtg. Minutes of March 24, 2008 Page 4 utilizing. She feels this is not they way to go after the minority number of bad landlords in S Evanston. Also this ordinance does not include the modification that staff has worked on as listed in their memorandum. Mr. Wolinski responded that staff was only reacting to the recommendations that were mentioned. Mr. Cox said that the changes to the ordinance can be made and ready to present on the Council floor. Aid. Bernstein moved to amend the ordinance to Include the graduated fee scbedule, seconded by Aid. Jean -Baptiste. The vote was 8 to I voting any (Aid. Hansen). A motion was made by Chair Holmes to eliminate items (2) and (3), seconded by Aid. Wynne. The vote was 8 to I voting nay (Aid. Hansen). Aid. Bernstein moved to eliminate part of (5) pertaining to the number of dwelling units, seconded by Aid. Wynne. The vote was 8 to i voting nay (Aid. Hansen). ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION (PD1) Consideration of a Recommendation to omvide TIF and Sales Tax Assistance for the Redevelopment of 1603 Orrinaton Avenue Nis. Aiello asked the sense of the Committee with regards to this recommendation which staff believes is a good opportunity and a chance to provide more parking spaces as well on Orrington Avenue. Mr. Dave Reitman. Attorney for the Developer, gave a brief overview of this request and Mr. Stephen Yas, Architect for the project, went over the Site Plan. He demonstrated where the relocation of the ramp would still have the same square footage as in the original PUD and will provide better circulation on Orrington and gain approximately 15 more parking spaces as well. Aid. Bernstein believes that this partnership will benefit the City. Aid. Wollin agreed and stated that the street will be better off without the ramp. Aid. Rainey asked what the exact status of this project is. Mr. Reifman responded that in December the applicant asked for an extension to April 30, 2008. He assured that they plan to begin construction immediately with the time extension coming to a close. Aid. Aloran made clear as he has from the beginning, that he does not favor this project and is against the closing of the open space area that now exists at the corner of Off ington. Davis and Sherman. These ;pen areas arc becoming very rare and he feels this will be a detriment to the downtown area. Ms. Aiello clarified the majority consensus to bring back an agreement before the Committee for their review. ADJOURNMENT The meeting was adjourned nt 8:27 p.m. Respectfully Submitted, cw Jacgtrelin� E. Brownlee Planning & Development Committee Meeting Minutcs of April 8, 2008 Council Chambers — 630 p.m. E-ranston Ci%ic Center Alderman Present: S, Bernstein, D. Holmes, A. Hansen, L. Jean -Baptiste; E.- Moran, A. Rainey, E. Tisdahl, C. Wollin, M. Wynne Staff Present: J. Wolinski, J. Aiello, J. Bro%vnlee, K. Cox, B. Dunkley, S. Dmmer, D. Marino, D. Spicuaa Presiding Official: Alderman Holmes DECLARATION OF OUORUM Chair Holmes called the meeting to order at 6.50 p.m. APPROVAL OF THE MARCH 24. 2008 MEETING MINUTES AND TRANSCRIPT OF THE SPECIAL MEETING ON MARCH 17 2008 The meeting minutes of March 24's and Transcript from March 17`s were approved unanimously N%ith a vote of 9-0. ITEMS FOR CONSIDERATION {P13 Reauest for Renewal of Families in Transition Fundine for Connections for the Homeless Aid. Wynne moved approval, seconded by Aid. Bernstein. Aid. Wollin expressed her support for this program. Aid. Rainey stated that this is the first FIT case that she has actually agreed with and supports. Ms. Samh Manaher, representing Connections for the Homeless, briefed the Committee on their client and how she has progressed over the last year and her continued plans for advancement in the upcoming pear. The vote was 9-0 in favor of the motion. 1P21 Sidewalk Cafe for Tvoe 1 Restaurant Aid. Rainey moved approval, seconded by Aid. Bernstein. Mr. Wolinski informed the Committee that ordinarily a restaurant does not have to come back for approval. However, this applicant has violated the City's Smoking Ordinance and had to come before Administrative Adjudication and was charged a SIDD fine. The ordinance states that no smoking is allowed within a sidewalk cafe area. He reminded the Committee that these sidewalk cafe permits are a privilege versus by right opportunity. Mr. Wolinski noted that staff has met with the restaurant owner and manacement and are confident that all rules and regulations are clearly understood and that all measures «ill be taken so that this incident does not occur again. The owner, Rohit, stated that lie has talked with officials in the City's Health Department and has been assured that their Tommy Nevin's has met all their requirements. He assured the Committee that they will matte all efforts to comply with the sidewalk cafe regulations and all City Ordinances. PRD Committee Mtg. Minutes of April 8, 2D08 Page 2 Aid. Bernstein stated that he is confident in the quality of managcrial staff that he has met in Tommy Nevin's over the years and noted that he has heard of no problems with this establishment in the past %pith underage liquor incidents, conflicts, etc. He expressed his support for this application. The pole was 9-0 in favor of the motion. (P3) Ordinance 32-0-08 — Plan Commission Recommendation for a Man Amendment & Planned Development at 708 Church Street This item tvas transcribed by LeGrand Court Reporting Service. The transcript is available on the City Web Site, via email or copies made upon request. The Committee discussed setting a date to have a special meeting for this item. The special meeting date was agreed by the Committee to be held on Wednesday, May 7, 2008 at 6:30 p.m. in the Council Chambers and will be televised. Chair Holmes said that she will allow the first 90 minutes for public comments followed by Committee discussion. Mr. Wolinski recommended that this new amended proposal go back before Site Plan and Appearance and Review Committee. The Committee members all agreed. The meeting was adjourned at 8: lq p.m. Respectfully submitted, iacqulbclne . Brovtirlee 0 n t Planning & Development Committee Itileeting Minutes of April 28, 2008 Council Chambers — 7:00 p.m. Evanston Civic Center Alderman Present: S. Bernstein, D. HoImes, A. Hansen, L- Jean -Baptiste, E. Moran, A. Rainey, E. Tisdahl, C. Wollin, M. NVynne Staff Present: J. Wolinski, J. Brownlee, J. Carroll, K. Cox, B. DunklMy D. Marino, D. Spicuzza . •... L Presiding Ofticlal: Alderman Holmes DECLARATION OF OUORMI !,' Chair Holmes called the meeting to order at 7:18 p.m. APPROVAL OF THE APRIL 8. 2008 MEETING b1INUTES t; . ;• , , Aid. Wynne moved approval of the April 8, 2008 minutes, seconded by Aid. TisdahL- `,The minutes were: approved with a tote of 9-0. ITEMS FOR CONSIDERATION (P4) Nlaior Variance Reauest Denial for 1233 Central Street (Rahai Parkina Lot) Chair Holmes announced that staff has informed her that the applicant could not be present this evening and has asked for a continuance to be on the May 12'h P&D agenda.. The Committee members accepted the applicant's request. (P 1) Ordinance 35-0-08 — Tent amendment: Solar Collectors _ _,- Aid. Moran moved approval, seconded by Aid. Wynne. Mr. Wolinski directed the Committee's attention to the legislative history on this item, which goes back to June 14, 2006 «hen the Plan Commission originally recommended approval of staff's proposes test amendment to add a definition to the Zoning Ordinance for "Solar Collectors." He noted that this text amendment will regulate the placement and materials for these accessory structures and assist in specifying the zoning calculations for building lot coverage and impervious surface coverage. Mr. Wolinski assured the Committee that staff feels this proposed ordinance is a ►ell -crafted text amendment for a needed definition to regulate solar collectors. He concluded that staff' supports this ordinance and the Plan Commission's recommendation for approval. The vote was 9-0 in favor of the motion. (P'_) Ordinance 48-0-08 — Text amendment: B I District Snecial Uscs Update Aid. Jean -Baptiste moved approval, seconded by Aid. Wynne P&D Committee Mtg. Minutes of April 28, 2008 Page 2 ?Ar. NYolinski informed the Committee that staff has some concerns with this proposed text amendment and the Plan Commission's recommendation for approval. He explained the reason staff does not support this recommendation to add single-family detached uses as a special use in the B I district is because they question if this is the best public policy in accordance with the Purpose Statement for the BI neighborhood business district nor would is it compatible with the existing permitted or special uses for this district. hit. Dunkley further explained the purpose for the B 1 zoning district is to provide neighborhood oriented retail that is very pedestrian oriented and caters to the surrounding neighborhood residents. He reiterated Mr. Wolinski's comments and stressed the point that making special uses in this district for single-family detached does not fit in this zoning category. However, NIT. Dunkley informed the Committee that staff recommends a possible rezoning and map amendment for specific B1 district or all the BI districts if there is enough support to do so. Aid. Bernstein questioned Legal Staff if the Committee were to support staffs proposed recommendation, would this have to go back before the Zoning Committee of the Plan Commission and the usual application procedure that takes approximately 4 months to get to this point. Also, he questioned how legally possible is it to only rezone specific 131 districts and make map amendments to only specific areas within a zoning district. NTT. Cox responded that he can not give a definitive answer at this moment without doing further research; however lie would assume drat it might be possible to do so. Further discussion followed regarding the Preliminary Findings report for the 131 District Single Family Detached Uses, which was included in the packet materials as a staff memorandum dated December 6, 2007. Aid. Wynne pointed out that it is stated in the report that single family detached uses within the BI districts comprise of approximately 1 I%, which is the smallest percentage of uses within this district. She questioned if these single-family structures are clustered together enough to do a site specific rezoning and . map amendments? Upon review of the Preliminary Findings report of the listed addresses within the 12 sub areas affected, it was noted that all the single-family detached structures are not so closely located to each other. After lengthy discussion, several Committee members expressed that they would like to have the concerns and questions addressed before moving forward with this proposed text amendment. Ald. Rainey stated that she would like to have more information from Legal staff on how they can legally treat single-family homeowvners within the BI district difTerent who would like to make renovations or structural improvements to their legal non-confortning homes within this district. Aid. Nforan stated that he is not comfortable with making any final decision on this proposed text amendment, especially in view of the discussion and questions that were raised by the Committee this evening. He feels that it is too premature on this issue to move any further ahead before more research has been done by staff and more options can be considered for single-family detached property owners within the B 1 zoning district_ Aid. Rainey mowed to hold this item at the consensus of the Committee to allow"• staff to do more research as directed this evening and "withdrawn the original motion for approval. Aid. 'Horan seconded the motion and the vote --vas unanimously in favor. (P3) Ordinance _58-0-08 — Svecial Use Reauest for 2650 Ridee Avenue (Evanston Hosoitalk £xnansion of the Kelloac Cancer Care Unit Aid. Jean -Baptiste moved approval, seconded by Aid. Tisdahl. 0 to t P&D Committee Mtg. Minutes of April 29, 2008 Page 3 Mr. Ray Grady, CEO of the Evanston Northwestern Healthcare Corporation (applicant), opened the presentation by introducing the other representatives in attendance with him. He introduced Mr. Roy Eckenhoff, Architect for the project, Dr. Bruce Boxten, Oncologist for the Kellogg Cancer Care unit; and Nis. Kathleen Dove, patient perspective representative. Mr. Grady gave an informative overview of the existing operations of the Cancer Care Unit and noted the successful work that has been done over the gars since it opened ranging from research, patient care, updated technology, ctc. As a result of this success, the current facilities have become overcrowded and insufficient due to the steady increase in patient care and the needed space to provide expanded space for technology and continued research. Mr. Grady summarized the proposed expansion and additions to the Cancer Care Unit which will provide the needed space to provide the maximum level of care for their patients. He noted that they have successfully proceeded and complied with all zoning application and procedures through the City's meeting requirements and have obtained recommendations for approval up to this point. At this time, he turned the presentation over to his architect for a more detailed overview of the proposed expansion and addition. Mr. Roy Eckenhoff continued with the overview using slides and a power point presentation visualizing the proposed expansion and addition to the existing Kellogg Cancer Care Unit at Evanston Hospital. He showed several slides with views of the existing building, the proposed new building expansion and many aerial views. He explained in detail the specifics of the interior design within the expansion. He also informed the Committee that the building addition will be LEED certified also. Dr. Bruce Boxten, currently an oncologist at the Kellogg Cancer Care Unit. gave an informative overview of the actual day-to-day operations that the medical staff faces in order to care for their patients. He informed the Committee that this cancer facility was originally formed and started from a grant in 1981 from the Kellogg family to Evanston Hospital. Since the Unit originally opened, it has expanded on a continuous, yearly basis and has outgrown its current space to operate propem, and efficiently to provide the best care for their patients. He noted that within the last year, the Cancer Care Unit has assisted approximately 2300 new patients in various forms of care and assistance. Dr. Boxten also noted that with the expansion of the number of patients they care for, there is also the need for a larger patient care team to provide the proper service needed. He stressed the acknowledgement of the physical limitations they are facing with the current facility and urged the Committee's support to approve this request for the special use for expansion of the Kellogg Cancer Care Unit. Nos. Kathleen Dove commented on her personal experience vdth the Kellogg Cancer Care Unit in relation to the assistance they received for her daughter's bought with breast cancer. She described in detail the caring atmosphere and professionalism of the staff at Kellogg. She supports the hospital's request for this much need expansion because there were times when she brought tier daughter in and the unit was so busy and overcrov%ded with patients needing assistance, that she was treated in the auditorium. Nis. Dove said that [lie Kellogg Cancer Care Center Fives more than just medical attention to the patients; they also provide the much needed family support system to deal wiLh a loved one going through cancer. She said the staff' here providcd every assistance they needed front the onset of her daughter's illness until even after her death. Nis. Dove strongly urged the Committee's support for this request for special use to expand the Kellogg Cancer Care Unit. 0 The vote isms 9-0 in favor of the motion. P&D Committee bttg hlinutes of April 29, 2008 Page 4 f P5) Ordinance 59-0-08 — Nfaior Variance for 1812 Lvons Street: Bethel AME Church Parking Lot This item w-as approved unanimously by the Committee subject to all the conditions stated by the Zoning Board of Appeals in their recommendation. (P6) Time Extension Request — Ordinance 80-0-06 — Planned Development for 1881 Oak Mr. Wolinski outlined the conditions that staff suggests to go with this time extension if granted by the Committee. He recommends approval with the following conditions: 1. Payment of the outstanding Right -Of -Way permit fee of $2,000, from July 17, 2007 to April 30, 2008. Renewal of the permit at $200 per month. 2. 'Removal of the construction fence and restoration of the Emerson Street sidewalk by June 30, 2008. The Committee agreed with Mr. Wolinski's recommended conditions. Nis. Tina Paden expressed her total disapprn%ml of this project from the beginning and stressed her opinion that it is way too much for the land it is being built on and much too dense for this location. She also suggested that a condition be added to enforce the applicant to maintain the grass at all times and to shovel the walk clear of snow in the winter months. She complained that neither one of these things have ever been done since the applicant has owned the property. Aid. Moran said that he is in opposition of tenting this time extension request because he feels the reasoning for the extension is not sufficient enough to support this request. He also has never supported this project from the beginning because he feels it is not the right location for the project development on this site. Aid. Wollin agrees that the sidewalk in front of the site is in really bad shape and would like to see it fixed as soon as possible. Aid. Wynne seconded Aid. Moran's comments for the same reasons; she is also in opposition of this request. A motion was made and seconded for approval of the time extension request of Ordinance 80-0-06. The vote ivas 7 in favor of the motion and 2 voting nay (Aid. Moran and Aid. Wynne). (P7) Time Extension Reauest — Ordinance 57-0-05 -- Planned Development — 1603-1629 Orrington Avenue Aid. Rainer moved approval, seconded bi Aid. Hansen. The vote eras 9-0 in favor of the "lotion. CO\I,NlLINiCAT10\ RDI) Do»,nnavment Assistance Program Staff informed the Committee that this program will start on May 1 ', 2008. The specifics and requirements are stated in the memorandum. Ms. Spicu"n said the two, lenderswilirinitially be t- P&D Committee Mtg. Minutes of April 28, 2008 Page 5 used. Staff will send out news releases and advertisements, including the City Web Site to teach out to community organizations and participation of more lenders. ADJOURNIN1Fti'T The meeting was adjourned at $.15 p.m. Respectfully submitted, r Jacquelinl,E. Bronnlee C I 0 Planning & Development Committee Meeting Minutes of May 12, 2008 Counci3 Chambers - 6:30 p.m. Evanston Civic Center : -: s s. C; ' Alderman Presents, - S. Bernstein, D. HoL-nes. L Jean -Baptiste; E. ,Moran. A. Rainey,'E:;Tisdahl, C. } Wollin, M. Wynne :,-W,• _ ... 1 .. Alderman Absent: A. Hansen Staff Present: J. Wolinski, J. Brownlee, J. Chambers, K. Cox; B. Dunkley, D. Marino,-G. Morgan, R.,,:l. Russell, A. Stuart, L Woods Presiding Official: Alderman Holmes DECLARATION OF QUORUM Chair Holmes tailed the meeting to order at 6:S8 p.m. APPROVAL OF THE APRIL 28. 2008 MEETING 1i INILYTES I ft Aid. Jean -Baptiste moved approval of the Apria 28.2008 minutes, seconded by Aid. Moran. The minutes were, , approved with a vote of 8-0. ITEMS FOR CONSIDERATION fP21 Maior Variance Reovest for 1233 Central Street (Rahai Parkins Lotl Chair Holmes announced that the applicant I -.as requested that this Item be held until the June 23, 2008 regularly scheduled P&D Committee meeting. The Committee members all agreed. At the request of Aid. Wynne, Chair Holmes ohese to consider all the sidewalk cafe requests for consideration before the remaining agenda items. fP5) Sidewalk Cafe for Tvoe 1 Restaurant -J K Swat 720-1/2 Clark Street Aid. Bemstein moved approval, seconded by AIJ. V11,nne. The vote was 8-0 in favor of the motion. (P61 Sidetiaa`k Cafe for Tvoe 1 Restaurant - e"-%d 3=a"l Cafe. 525 Oemoster Street, Aid. Bemstein moved approval, seconded by Aid, V,') nne. The vote was 8-0 in favor of the motion. (P7) Side»sik Cafe for Tvice I Restaurant - Crnal a+o Restaurant. 1639 Orrinaton Avenue Aid. Semstein moved approval, seconded by Aid. YsWne. The vole was 8-0 in favor of the motion. _ J P&D Comm. Mtg. . Minutes of 5-12-08 Page 2 - )131) Ordinance 48-0-08 - Text Amendment- BI District Soecial Uses Uodate Aid. Bernstein moved approval, seconded by Aid. Jean -Baptiste. Aid. Bernstein clarified that this item was held at the April 28, 2008 meeting due to his request for Legal Staffs opinion as to whether the City might allow owners of homes that are nonconforming uses to expand the structure so long as they do not increase the building's footprint. He explained his position was to see if this option to make a special classification for those legal nonconforming single-family structures was possible Instead of adopting Ordinance 48-0-08. However, in view of the legal opinion received from Legal Staff, this alternative seems to present Equal Protection concerns if allowed in only one zoning district because it would appear to grant greater rights to these property owners over other nonconforming property owners of other types of legal nonconformities with the same district as well as all such owners in every other district. He noted that the City s Law Department has recommended that this option not be pursued due to the potential risk of litigation. Aid. Bernstein pointed out that there are many locations that are legal nonconforming uses within his ward that over the years have become interactive with the current zoning district regulations. However, he Is in favor of allowing legal nonconforming single-family home owners the ability to expand these structures as long as they do not expand the buildings footprint. His preference would be to legalize the existing nonconformity, but he realizes the homeowner still has the right to come before Council and request zoning relief which alloN%i the owner to present their case and be considered by Council on on individual basis. The vote was 7 voting in favor of the motion, and 1 voting nay (Moran). (133) Ordinance 62-0-08 - Amendment to the Fxistinq PlannF-d nevelppment at 1603 Orrinaton Avenue and 1629 Orrinaton Avenue in the 03 Downtown Core ❑evelooment District It was noted that the requested amendment to the existing planned development ordinance includes: 1. An amended site plan that illustrates the construction of various improvements and amendments to the previously approved ordinance 57-0-05, granted by City Council, 2. A release from the conditions identified in Sections 3(b) and 4(c) of the original ordinance. requiring a "link' to be constructed between the buildings at 1603 and 1629 Orrington; and, 3. An extension of the deadline to complete the construction of further improvements to September 1, 2010. Aid. Rainey moved approval, seconded by Ald. Trsdahl. The vote was 7 In favor of the motion and 1 voting nay (Aid. Moran). 1134) Resolution 27-R-08 - Agreement between the 1603 Orrinaton Jnint Venture of Lowe Enterprises and - Golub & Comuanv and the Citv of Evanston reaardino the Orrinaton Avenue Parkino Ramo Aid. Wollin moved approval, seconded by Aid. Bemstein. Aid. Rainey stated that she has no problem with the refunding of sales tax, however the $625,000 of TIF funds needs more clarification and better reasoning stated for the City s share in the cost for the construction of the ramp relocation. Mr. David Reitman. Attorney for the applicant, responded that the 5625,000 in Washington National TiF Funds will not be released and paid until the completion of the ramp relocation. He explained In further detail the reimbursement agreement conditions. Aid, Moran noted his position of why he does not support this request and why he wiil be voting against this. He referred back to Item (123) reiterating his consistent opposition to this entire planned development because he feels it is not the right project for this location and that the expansion would negatively impact this important downtown core area. He also does not see a supporting case of why this project and ramp relocation can not be funded solely by the developer. Aid. Wollin responded that this ramp location has always been a detriment to the Orrington Avenue throughway which is a vital downtown artery for business and retail. She stated that her understanding of TIF Fund money was originally designed for infrastructure improvements to major P&D Comm- Mto. Minutes of 5-12-08 Page 3 throughways in the downtrnvn districts. In her opinion, she strongly believes this ramp relocation will increase the possibility of thriving retail and business on the east side of Orrington Avenue and will over all Improve the traffic problems in that area. Ald. Wallin said she supports this use of TIF Funds and the City's involvement in the cost sharing Wth this developer for the ramp relocation. Ald. Semstein agreed and added that this developer did not say they could not get the financing to do this ramp relocation construction solely. He further noted that this business transaction is similar to the developer playing poker with the City due to the overall benefit this ramp relocation improvement will gain for the downtown core district by increasing the business and retail possibilities along the Orrington Avenue corridor. He agrees with Ald. Wollin that this Is a good place for the use of TIF Funsds. The question was raised by the Committee for the balance in TIF funds at this time. Mr. Marino supplied that Information noting a balance of 5.6 million strong tax increment. Aid. Jean -Baptiste stated his support for the authorization of the City Manager to execute this reimbursement agreement, but he strongly urged the developer fully comply with the MWEBE policy and the utilization of the "Bristol Model which requires the hiring of Evanston residents to work on the construction of the ramp relocation. Mr. Reiman responded that the developer fully intends to comply with the MWESE's policy regulations, however he questions if the 'Bristol Model" is adequate in relation to this project versus the conditions of the project that the model was developed upon. Discussion followed between Mr. Reifman, the Committee members and legal staff. In conclusion to this discussion, Mr. Cox agreed that Mr. Reifman's questions to the siYniticance of the "Bristol Model' Is a legitimate question of whether it is feasible with this planned development. Upon this condusicn of this discussion, it was decided to vote on the motion made for this item, however the majority of Comm;uee members agreed for Legal staff to research if it is appropriate to also require this developer to utilize :he 'Bristol Model' in this planned development. The vote was 7 In favor of the motion 40 and t voting nay (r.1aran). Mr. Wolinski made a suggestion to the Committee that they consider holding this item at Council to allow legal staff to respond to their question. Ald. Bernstein made a motion in agreement to Mr. Wolinski's suggestion, seconded by Aid. Wollin. The vote was 8-0 in support of this motion. ITEM FOR DISCUSSION fPDl1 Reference from Alderman Jean -Baptiste concemino the Affordable Housino Demolition Tax, to Include an Exemption for oroiects that replace the demolished structure with off-street oarkinq Ald. Jean -Baptiste said that he has read the research and the legal opinion and based upon this correspondence, his reference seems defeated. Nd. Tsdahi agreed with Aid. Jean-I3aptiste's reference. She said this demolition tax came about because of the `McMansion' era, which has slowed down tremendously since the real estate market recession. She suggested that maybe they need to revisit this ordinance. Aid. Moran debated with Ald. Jean -Baptiste regarding the McMansion era having to do with the origination of this ordinance Ald_ Wollin mentioned the protection for homeowners with this ordinance; that they be exempt f ram this tax if they lived in the prcpe,ty for 3 years prior to demolition and 3 year after. She does not want the ruling affected by any change. Aid. Rainey mentioned a situation in her ward where someone has purchased 3 multi -family buildings that were a blight to the neighborhood and the buildings were filled with undesirable tenants and activity. This sma9 time developer is now stuck with those buildings due to the real estate market recession and also had to pay S3.000 per unit; therefore this developer has been struck twice with finanaal lost_ Her problem is developers that take problem properties and replace with decent housing, should eso not be stuck with this tax. 0 ft PRD Comm. Mtg. Minutes of 5-12-08 Page 4 ADJOURNMENT - - :•! . The meeting was adjourned at 7:38 p.m. - Respectfully submitted, Jacqueline . Brownlee �l.tnwi 201,M nj} �9:"71 �.y ��F 1rr i.ti.,:a'u�y--c5=i71 10 r`.-wsy:�� 01 • 0 Planning & Development Committee Meeting %Iloutes of,Nlav 27. 2008 Council Chambers — 7:00 p.m. Evanston Civic Center Alderman Present: S. Bernstein, D. Holmes, A. Hansen, L. Jean -Baptiste, E. Moran, A. Rainey, E. Tisdahl. C. Wollin. Si. Wynne Staff Present: J. Wolinski. J. Brownlee, k. Cox, P. D'Agostino, S. Draxner, B. Dunkley, D. Gaynor. D. Marino, A. Olson, R. Russell, D. Spicuzza, D. Stoneback, L. Woods Presiding Official: Alderrnan Holmes DECLARATION OF Ol10RiT�1 Chair Holmes called the meeting to order at 7:32 p.m. APPROVAL OF THE. MAY 12, 2009 MEETING NIIN(ITES Ald. Jean -Baptiste moved approval of the May 12*. 2008 minutes, seconded by Bernstein. The minutes were approved with a vote of 9-0. ITEMS FOR CONSIDERATION P( it Renuest from liousinu Opnortunity Development Comoration fHODCI forAble Hous;ne Funds for Homeownership Education Aid. Bernstein moved approval, seconded by Aid. Jean-Baptlste. Ms. Erica Page, Housing Counselor for HODC was present for questions and explanation if needed for the workshop and individual counseling she offers through her program. Aid. Bernstein asked for clarification of the 50 clients mentioned on agenda item sheet, however the list on page 3 of the Evanston Housing Counseling Proposal with the Projected Goals and number of clients presumed to participate has a much higher number. Ms. Spicuzza explained that this information was provided by staff and the 50 estimated clicnts/participants would be a result from the five housing workshops. Aid. Rainey asked exactly who does HODC partnership with to provide this housing workshop. Ms. Page responded that their first and foremost partnership is with the City of Evanston working closely with Ms. Spicuzza as the City's Housing PIanner. the First Time Homebuyers Program, Down payment Assistant Program. and future assistance %vith closing cost as well; which are City and HUD sponsored programs. Secondly, HODC partnerships with the Not -for -Profit CHDO's in Evanston. Ald. Rainey asked why this Housing Work -shop program and individual counseling needs to be funded in one lump sum versus services rendered as needed. She says this because they are not seeing a large amount of affordable housing being sold in Evanston. Existing affordable housing projects have been vacant for lone periods of time; for example, the 602 Mulford building has listed S units under contract and as of today, only one unit has closed. She also mentioned the building on Dobson which has been finished with the rehabilitation for some time and not one unit has been under contract. Sts. Page clarified that she is only involved in the beginning educational piece for purchasing affordable housing and counseling clients throughout the process. Ald. Rainey asked if pan of the counseling provides assistance in helping the client P&D Commi"ce Mtg. Minutes of.Nlsy 27.2008 Page 2 qualify and receive financing. Ms. Page responded that she does help with that process and also help the client with applying for other assistance progr=u such as down payment and for closing costs. She also offers her Housing Counseling Pro _ra n in other municipalities and receives funding from HUD/Cook County, Employee Assisting Housing (EAH), funds from different municipalities and also some private banks. She noted that the majority of her clients are at 801,o median income and most are first time homebuycrs. However she does offer housing counseling to clients that are in the 12046 median income. Nis. Spicuzza informed the Committee that 80% median income would be approximately 560,000 for a family of four which could afford property around 5185-200,000 and 1204 u median income would be approximately 575,000 for a fancily of four affording property around 5230-250,000. Aid. Moran stated that he has always supported this program and it is still a very valuable workshop for low to moderate income households and first time homebuycr's. He feels times will change with the housing market and there will always be people looking for affordable housing. He believes Evanston will benefit from these --workshops and counseling program. Aid. Jean -Baptiste feels there is a need for more educ anion on what to look out for as far as debt to income ratios, predator lenders, and the dangers of buying property, especially for the first time homebuyer's and those whose credit draws them to more higher interest loans. Ms. Page responded that this education is part of the post purchase counseling and she is expanding past this to counsel on long-term budgeting and how ne4 to extend one self after purchase of a property. The current affordable housing project for a single -Family home on Washington Street by the Citizen's Lighthouse Group was mentioned as a possible property to purchase for some of the clients in the workshop. Aid. Rainey thanked Nis. Page for all her good work she has done and is proposing to do with these upcoming workshops. She asked Ms. Page to take into consideration what she mentioned earlier regarding the vacant and unsold units that were projects of the same CHDO's she is working for because there steeds to be as much assistance as possible to sell the existing affordable housing. Ms. Page mi;xaided that she would like to see these units closed on and sold as well, however most of these multi -family units are too small for the client families in her workshops. The [notion passed with a unanimous vote of 9-0. ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION fPDll Presentation and Discussion of Impact Fee Renorts Mr. tt'olinski introduced Nis. Julie Herlands, PrinLVal Consultant for TischlerBise, who has worked closely with City Staff to do an in-depth stu+h- on impact fees for Parks, Libraries, Streets and Water. lie reminded the Committee that at the la.,!,i meeting they were provided a brief memo from the Finance Department along with four reports- 1) 'Feasibility Study prepared in 2D06 by TischlerHisc, 2) Impact Fee Study: Parks and Libraries, 3) Streets Excise Tax Study, and Water Capacity Fee Study. lie noted that staff is looking fcvr direction from the Committee on whether they want to proceed with impact fees. Ms. Herlsnds informed that her firm TischlerBi-it completed in May 2006 an Impact Fee Feasibility Study for the City of Evanston and thm was retained to produce in-depth studies regarding these fees for Parks, Libraries, Streets and Water. These in-depth study reports were P&D Committer Nltg. Minutes of May 27, 200S Page 3 completed early this year, which is What the Committee received at their meeting two weeks ago. She also informed the Committee that TischlerBise has done over 700 impact Fce Studies and Reports throughout the Country and many studies done in the Chicagoland area. Ms. HerIands began her power point presentation entitled Briefing on Impact Fees. She started off with an introduction and background information on TischlerBise. The presentation slides are as follows: Overview of Impact Fees, General Process for Study, Land Use Assumptions, Overview of Methodologies, Methodology Overview - Generic Incremental Formula, Parks, Parks Input Variables, Parks Impact Fees. Parks Cash Flow, Libraries, Library Input Variables, Library Impact Fees, Library Cash flow, Water, Water Input Variables, Water Capacity Fees, Water Cash Flow, and then the Wrap -Up slide to finish the presentation. (if you would like electronic copies of the reports and the presentation, contact: aolson(alciwofevanston.orr. In order to validate impact fees, a community must be able to demonstrate the impact, benefit and proportionality of the fees. These fees are typically imposed at the time of residential development building permit issuance and are paid be developers. Impact fees have the following general limitations: They can only be used to finance capital infrastructure and cannot be used to finance ongoing operations; They must be accounted for in separate accounts and specifically earmarked for the capital expenses for which they were collected and cannot be deposited in the General Fund; and They cannot be used to correct existing infrastructure deficiencies unless there is already a plan to fund corrections for the deficiency for the existing business and residential population_ The following representatives from City Departments that the impact studies were done for are: Parks, Forestry, and Recreations: Doug Gaynor, Director and Paul D'Agostino, Superintendent of Parks h Forestry. Library: his. Mary Johns, Director Water & Sewer Division: Dave Stoneback. Superintendent Questions, comments and discussion followed between the Committee members, Ms. Herlands, and city staff. Aid. Tisdahl asked if not -far -profit organizations would be excluded. Ms. Herlands responded that equal protection laws would come into place in this matter and the fact that everyone should have to pay their fair share. U Wollin questioned if age factor should be considered; for example, senior citizens use parks more passively than kids' activities. Ms. Herlands agreed and this case should be factors in and should come out fair overtime. Aid. Rainey raised several questions on the -Water Capacity Fees" and how they relate to water meter sizes. Mr. Stoneback explained. AId. !Moran asked how they should look at this as a City that is built up almost to capacity. Ms. Herlands responded that Evanston can still benefit greatly from impact fees because it helps maintain the current level of public services, facilities and infrastructure. Staff asked for direction from the Committee. The consensus of the Committee was to go forward with approaches described in the final reports prepared by TischlerBise. AId. Wollin P&D Committee hitg. Minutes of May 27. 2009 Page 4 feels these impact fees have a great deal of potential with regards to the Budget and would be a good tool. Aid. Moran agreed that the impact fees are a real potential but also some real concerns for potential optimism. He feels Evanston is a very economically diverse community and may need more analysis specifically regarding different neighborhoods, income Ievels. etc. Aid. Hansen would like to see discussion continued on moving forward with the impact fees; they do not need to wait until Budget season to start implementing. Aid. Tisdahl seconded Aid. Hansen's view, especially in view of the current condition of Evanston's sweets. Ms. Herlands noted that those reports are Evanston specific and can actually be adopted at this time. Aid. Rainey was particularly favored the revenue generated from the water capacity fees as shown in Ms. Herlands presentation and requested that staff" move forward to adopt these fees. Aid. Moran said that notification should be sent out to the public regarding the Impact Fee Studies done and before any impact fees are adopted. Aid. Rainey made a reference to direct staff to come back with further information on revenue generated if the Impact Fees are adopted and bring back before the A&PTV Committee. COMMUNICATION (P132) Memorandum from the Community Development Director This meeting was ]antes Wolinski's last meeting with the Planning & Development Committee as he will be retiring from the City of Evanston on ,Nlay 30. 200S. His memorandum reads: The Planning & Development Committee ,fleeting of.tfay 27. 2008, will he my lasts as staff to the Committee. I will be refiring from City service on May 30`� 2008. 1 it -anted to express in t� appreciation and thanks to all members of the Committee. ]loth past and present, for allowing me to serve you over the past 14 years. I began staffing the Committee in 1994 when 1 is -as appointed Communin, Development Director. During my tenure. I have witnessed the Planning & Denelopment Committee preside over and recommend to the Cif)- council an incredible amount of lard use legislation ranging from over 50 planned development proposals. affordable housing, zoning test & map amendments, special uses, preservation. neighborhood planning and property standards. The is-ork of the Committee during this period has been amazing. Again, thank you for allowing nre to conic along on the ride. It has been an honor. James ,IL Wolinski Mr. Wolinski also thanked his staff and personal secretary. Jackie Brownlee who has assisted him and been the minute taker for the past 14 years along with him. A standing ovation followed. We will miss you Jim. AD,IOURINNIE\T The meeting was adjourned at 8:45 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Jacqueline E. Brownlee Planning & Development Committee Meeting Alinutes of June 4, 2008 Council Chambers — 6:30 p.m. Evanston Civic Center Alderman Present: S. Bernstein, D. Holmes, A. Hansen, E. Moran, A. Rainey, E. Tisdahl, C. Wollin, M. Wynne (joined later) Staff Present: -i D. Cool:, B. Dunkic%, D. Marina, B. Newman, R. Russell, D. Spicuzza, L. Woods Presiding Official: Alderman Holmes 1. DECLARATION OF OUORUM i Chair Holmes called the meeting to order at 6:45 p.m. 11. APPROVAI. OF TIIE I%IAY'_7. 2008 1l1EETING A1INUTES The meeting minutes of A1ay 2—* were approved unanimously with a Vote of 7-0. III. ITEMS FOR CONSIDERATION (PI) Reauest from Citi7en%' Li=hthouse Conintunity Land Trust (CLCLT) for Additional HOME runds for Single -Family Ownershin Prniect Consideration of the Housing_ Commission recommendation to approve additional funding for CLCLT for the rehabilitation of 2212 Washington Street. Staff recommends additional HOME funds of 58.500 for rehabilitation and $6,500 in down payment assistance to an eligible buyer, totaling S15.000 in additional assistnnce to the project. This will also enable an $11.000 cost reduction in sale price. Aid. Raincy stated that after vie■%ing a photo of the house and garage site suspects it will cost even more. She suggested that subsidizing $100,000 to 2 families to assist them in buying condotniniurns rather than subsidizing one developer for a 3-bedrootn house %%hich is too small for a famil% of 5, would probabl% be tnore helpful in the long run, adding (flat the condos ha%c ind,:•.Ir garage Npaces and Line has a pool. Mr. Wilfred Gadsen. Dircctor of CLCLT, updated the Committee oil the status of the renovation/sale of the properi%: The primary nation for the request is to make the house affordable for a 4-member family. The% hate had store interest front 4 than from 5 member families. The current market stakes it difficult for first time home buyers due to a fluid market and tougher requirenienis of honte buyers. The relatively small size of a condo accommftdatc; smaller c,.ildren. not .Tier children. lie stated that other t%pes of subsidies are not repaid, but m the case of a land inrst. the house %%ill al%%a%s be affordable. I le added that reoplc are cnthusia.tic about this house and the opportunity to live in Evanston. lie said that me ofthe applicants fixing in Rogers Park and Cvanston can't afford to sell their I bedro,: m places to bu% this place, due to matt}• unusual current conditions. With other de%elor-crs. after a time, they %%ill sell the house at the market rate. With CLCLT the house ►.ill a1u-a%s be affordable. • P&D Committee Mtg. Minutes of June 9, 2008 Page Aid. Rainey asked for clarification of the size of the house. Mr. Gadscn replied that it is 1,025 sq. ft. in size. Aid. Rainey said she does not object to the period of affordability, but that she only supports subsidizing buyers now, stating that the family that buys this house will not be able to sell it for market value, and that they may as well be renting. There is a built in minimal profit that theywill not realize. Aid. Wollin asked how many serious applicants there arc. Mr. Gadscn replied that there were 8 families who contacted banks. The first 3 did not prLveed. The second 3 are working towards purchasing the house. One is getting assistance to sell their property possibly from a land trust. Aid. Tisdahl stated that she believes Aid. Rainey may be right about helping families rather than developers but she is voting yes on the requested additional funding for this house because ►►e have put a great deal of money into it already. Aid. Itaincy noted that the primary prospecti►r buyer is selling a home in Chicago. The family already owns a home. Mr. Gadscn replied that buyers are not required to be I" time home buyers. Both parents work in Evanston. He added that the familythat buys t t this home will get a share of the appreciated value. The vote was 6-1 in ravor of the motion. M ITENTS FOR DISCUSSION (PDI) ilndnte of Evanston Affordable FFousint' Study Prepared by Ilusiness & Professinnal 1'conle for the Public Interest Nis. Susan Munro of the (lousing Commission introduced herself and Ihanked Betsy Lazar, the Housing For All Advocacy Group, and the Woodstock Institute for their assistance in gathering the data for the Affordable Housing Study. She introduced the Housing Commission members in attendance_ Timothy Angcll, Carol Balkcom, Joanne Zolontij, Eric Beauchamp. Vice Chair and Richard [Mosley. Ms. Munro explained that there is an ordinance stating that they arc to report to the P&D Committee from time to time. -which is their purpose at this meeting. They arc not asking for subsidies or funding tier projects. They do not have an ans►►er to the challenges for Evanston families but want to do furtlier research to Find ans►►ers to the questions raised in the report. ,fir. Eric Beauchamp presented the results of the study. The report defined affordable housing _. ,0".b of famih^s income including rent or mortgage, property taxes. utiliti_-: and assessment. The report illustrated: • Median income and various percentages of the median income • Incomes of common occupations in comparison to housing prices • Rise of 6W o in the cost of homes vs. the I W o rise in incomes • Expected foreclosures in Illinois in the next 2 ►ears: I in 38 MD Committee Mtg. Minutes of June 9.2008 Page 3 . • Map of Evanston foreclosures and vacant homes from 2005-2007 A list of housing market conditions Nis. Munro added that the African American population in particular was targeted for fraudulent and subprime loans. She also said that Evanston is still in a great position with good schools, a lake front, and a major university, which makes it a good time to begin putting a strategy in place. She listed some of the tools ►►e ha%e to work with: file Vacant Housing Ordinance; Demolition tax, Affordable Housing Fund, Inclusionary Housing and 4 CI iDO's including a land trust. Nis. Munro concluded that housing prices are rising faster than incomes, many who Frew up in Evanston cannot afford to live here, and foreclosures and vacancies are issues that need to he addressed. The Housing Commission intends to create a strategy for affordable housing in Evanston and requested assistance and guidance from the P&D Committee. Aid. Rainey asked Nis. Munro to discuss the immediate threat for CI IDO's going into foreclosure with rental units they rehabbed and converted to condos that have not sold, in the 8th Ward. She said there are many units that have been subsidized in many ways and arc sitting vacant. Nis. Munro replied that she knew of a condo conversion that went into foreclosure but it was not a CHDO, and that 2 CHDO projects have had 4 or 5 closings in the last month. She said she would investigate %%hether any CHDO's arc going into foreclosure. Aid. Tisdahl asked his. Munn% how the Housing Commission is keeping Evanston affordable for people who already live here, who are trying to hold on to their homes, to which his. Munro replied that they do not have a strategy, but that issue needs to be considered in a comprehensive flan. Many renters would like to buy but taxes arc very high in Evanston. Ms. Tisdahl asked his. Munro to talk to C}IDOs about finding bigger units to address the needs of larger families. Aid. Wollin stated that she and Aid. Holmes %tent to foreclostire task force meetings %%here tiler concluded that there is a nerd to educate people and give them financial counseling. Thew are exp"ting to receive a list of vacant affordable housing units from the task force. She asked Ms. Munro %%hethcr the I lousing Commission is in the process of developing a comprehensive plan for the City, to which his. Munro replied that they would %%elconte that charge and %.ould appreciate the participation of Council members and others with expertise. Chair Holmes thanked Ms. Munro and opened the floor to public comment. Nis. Rachel Hansen introduced herielf, explaining, that the I:\ansion Community Development Corporation asked her to appear. She. her husband and their 2 year old son enjoy living in l_wanston. The-, M%e friends here and %►ould love to stay here after he finishes school, at %%hick time he %%ill be a professor at Trinit. University in Deerfield. They pay 330,0 of their income to housing and cannot afford to live in Evanston, but they did not qualify for assistance. therefore they are mo%ing to the east coast. 0 PSD Committee \ttg. Ntinutes of June 9. 2008 Page 4 Nis. Ana Garcia stated that she works in Evanston and would like to live in Evanston. They ha+c been living at Reba place for one month and they are looking for a place to buy. tits. Made Anrbroise stated that she moved here from Haiti 13 years ago. She and her husband where unable to afford a condo. She currently is a single mother and a full time student. She had worked with Mr. Banks to find affordable housing in Evanston and she and her children just moved into 738 Dobson. She hopes the City can help others like her. Mr. Francois Kanantugire stated that he had been working in Evanston but couldn't afford to live here. Ile had been separated from his wife and 2 children for 8 years while living in America and trying to find the means for them to join him here. ECDA helped him to buy a beautiful condo and he now has his family with him. He thanked them for his shelter and reunion with his family. Ms. Maxie Livanga stated that she and her husband moved here 5 years ago and after 2 years put earnest money, down on a condo outside of Evanston. When they found out about an affordable )ionic at 738 Dobson, they forfeited their tamest money on the place in Chicago and bought the condo in Evanston. She expressed her gratitude. Ntr. Banks of ECDA explained that the 3 families who have just closed on their affordable housing in Evanston earn 601%, of the median income and below. He said that providing affordable housing in Evanston is a daunting task. It takes much more money than ECDA gets and the}' must go to many sour.es to ask for funding: City, Federal, IDA and Cook County Authority. They have gene out of their way to find large enough spaces for these families. At Dobson the}- are able to provide 1700 Sq. ft., 3 bedroom, 2 bath condos with deeded garage spaces. In the 5th ward, property is too expensive and they are fomed to provide condo units instead of houses. They may acquire a unit at S125,000 - S150,000, but must put a great deal into the unit. Ile agrees that the City needs to devise a eomprchcrtsive strategy to address affordable housing. Ile added that half of the building on Dobson is sold. 2 of 3 of the interested buyers are in the 151 time horncbuyer program. The I lansens here encouraged to try but they fell short of the requirements and are now moving away. Aid. Moran moved that the Council c.tablish a task force to begin developing comprehensive plan for affordable housing. Aid. Woilin seconded the motion. The Committee voted unanimously to approve the establishment of a task force for the comprehensive plan for affordable housing. Aid_ Rainey added that she ++as a founding mother of "TOE". the Tenants Organization of Evanston." She referred to an article in the Chicago Tribune about renters' problems and the lack of support for renters in Evanston. She asked if anyone knew of Shannon Weissr the Chief Executive of "Renters' Rights mentioned in the article. No one had. Aid. NVollin agreed that part of the charge of the task force will be to assist renters as well as buyers and to provide them with counseling and suppon groups. Members of the Housing Commission agreed to investigate the "Renters' Rights" organization and see how they can apply their aid to Evanston residents. r L_J P&D Committee Mtg. Minutes of June 9, 2008 Page 5 N'. COMMUNICATIONS WD21 Change in Chairmanshin Memorandum Chair Holmes welcomed the new Chair of the Planning and Development Committee, Aid. Chervi Wollin. Aid. Rainey commended Aid. Holmes, saying she has performed as Chair in an intelligent and wonderful way and expressed her appreciation. VI. TABLED ITEMS M) Ordinance 32-0-08 — flan Commission Recommendation for a Man Amendment &Planned Development at 708 Church Street Consideration of a recommendation from the Plan Commission to rezone the property at 708 Church Street from D2, Downtown Retail Core Zoning District, to the D3, Downtown Core Development District, and grant a Planned Development on that site of a 49-story residential and retail lover known as the "Fountain Square Development." (Revised plan is Cora 38-story residential & retail tower.) This item was tabled in Committee until Council adopts the Downtuwn Plan. NIL AD.IOUJIMMENT 0 The meeting was adjourned at 8:00 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Bobbie Newman 40 Planning & Development Committee Meeting Alinutes of June 23, 2008 Council Chambers — 6:30 p.m. Evanston Civic Center Alderman Present: S. Bernstein, D. Holmes, A. Hansen, L. Jean -Baptiste, E. Moran. A - Rainey, E. Tisdahl, C. Wollin Alderman Absent: M. Wynne Staff Present: D. Marino, J. Brownlee, J. Chambers, K. Cox, B. Dunkley, R. Russell, L. Woods Presiding Official: Aldernan Wollin DECLARATION OF OUORt7%i Chair Wollin called the meeting to order at 7:07 p.m. APPROVAL OF THE JtitiE 9. 2008 MEETING MINUTES Aid. Holmes moved approval of the June 93, 2008 minutes, seconded by Tisdahl. The minutes were approved with a vote of 8-0. ITE`IS FOR CONSIDERATION Chair Wollin chanced the order of the agenda to put the item with less controversy first. (P2) Temaorary Sienace Reaueit for American Craft Exposition Aid. Bernstein moved approval, seconded by Aid. Rainey. Ms. Carol Cyrus was acknowledged in attendance as a representative for the Auxiliary of the Evanston Northwestern Healthcare. The vote was 8-0 in favor of the motion. (P1) Ordinance 79-0-08 — Soe631 Use for Dormitory — 1620 Central Street Mr. Jack Lawler, attorney for the applicant (National Louis University) noted that he is also resident of Evanston since 1969. He informed that there was 3 hours of testimony between two meetings before the Zoning Board of Appeals resulting with an approval recommendation from the ZBA. He acknowledged Ln attendance with him is Mr. Bill Roberts, Vice President of Operations for National Louis Universiry. who will give an overview of the proposed improvements to the building and a few amendments to the original plan that were made in response to the concerns expressed by the adjoining neighbors. He also acknowledged in attendance the architect, Mr. Matthew Hidizeons(?), who can further address specific improvements to the building. Mr. Roberts informed the Committee that he his worked for National Louis University for 16 years and the Operations office is actually located at 1000 Capital Drive in Wheeling. He is responsible for all property land use matters for the University and his is aware of all the neighbor's concerns, primarily with privacy since the east and west_ In response to the neighbor's concerns, they propose the following amendments to be made: 1) privacy glass window dressings for the east and west side windows which will help address the concern with the close proximity to the residences and being able to look in each others windows, and 2) extensive upgrade in landscaping to pro%ide further privacy and separation from the adjoining P&D Comminee Mig. Minutes of 6-2MS Page 2 residential properties. He noted that they will actually be taking away some of the parking spaces from the current number of spaces in the lot. Mr. Roberts turned further comments over to Mr. Hidgeons for more details of the building improvements. Mr. Hidgeons explained in detail the proposed new windows and window treatments to be made on all windows on the east and west walls of the building which face residential properties. He further described in detail the proposed additional extensive upgrade to the landscaping that would provide further privacy between the dormitory and the adjoining residential properties on the east and west sides of the building. He distributed to the Committee members an amended landscaping plan and building plan showing the new privacy window treatments. Mr. Hidgeons also noted the new window openings on the parking lot side of the building that would not affect the sides of the building that adjoin to residential properties. Mr. Lawler stated that their request for special use for a dormitory of the subject building is in compliance with the oCSC Central Street Corridor Overlay District. lie noted that Evanston is a very diverse community and he feels especially confident that in this specific area of Evanston, in terms of diversity, that the PACE program would fit in due to its close proximity to public transportation and pedestrian friendly shopping accommodations all along Central Street. Mr. Lawler feels drat the adaptive use for this building will only enhance the revitalization of the community and that the proposed use will be consistent with the goals of the Central Street Corridor Plan. He noted that this proposed use will not coincide or disrupt pedestrian or vehicle traffic during peak school hours of St. Athanasius. He said the proposed dormitory use would have a lesser accumulative impact that a commercial use for this property. He strongly supports that the proposed dormitory use will not diminish property values on the surrounding residential properties. In conclusion. fir. Lawler assured that the original colonial style faVade of the building would not be changed with any of the proposed improvements to the building. Mr. Cox at this point, informed the Committee that the amendments to the Ordinance would need to be read for inclusion into the ordinance. These changes include the modification approved by Aid. Tisdaht with the amended landscaping and window plans. He noted these changes are made to the draft ordinance distributed to the Committee this evening on pages 3 and 4 under Section 3.$. Landscape Plan: The Applicant shall submit a landscape plan. subieet to review and avomval. by the Citv's Superintendent of Paris and Forestrv. Upon receivinu annroval from the Superintendent. the Applicant shall install_ or cause to be installed. all plant material and other features demctcd on the aforementioned landscape nlan. Section Z.C. t_andscane maintenance: The Applicant shall submit a landscape maintenance elan. subiect to review• and annroval by the Citv's Superintendent of Parks and Forestrv, that shall guarantee that, unon writt:n notification to the Applicant from the Citv. anv plants. planted in accordance with the aforementioned landscape plan. that die, shall be replaced by the Annlicant during the earliest nlantine season thereafter. Under Section 5: add the sentence to the end which reads: However. should the Annlicant transfer or lease the Subiect Pronem to another educations institution, the Subiect Propertv shall not be utilized for a dormitory use unless the new owner or lessee obtains a new Snecial use from the Citv Council. Aid. Tisdahl moved to include the noted amendments read by \lr. Cox Into the original Ordinance, seconded by Aid. Holmes. The vote was 8-0 in favor of the motion. Citizen Comments Jacoui Black. 1626E Central — noted that she has heard nothing addressing the tax situation since the property will become exempt if National Louis purchases the property. This will be another property taken off the tax roll by a not -for -profit organization causing those property owners who P&D Committee h1tg. Minutes of 6-23-08 Page 3 pay taxes even more. She said that the amended changes were not made aware of to the surrounding residents which they should have been notified if the original plan presented has been amended in any way. %.. Black also noted that this building was never intended to be a dormitory use and was original built for office use. She strongly feels this proposed dormitory use will not add to the diversity in this immediate area and would not be in keeping with the new Central Street Corridor Plan. Mr. Station. 1626 Central, agrees with comments made by Ms. Black, especially concerned with another property being taken off the tax tall with no agreed payment -in -lieu of Joe Beaulieu, 2530 Ashland, said that he is concerned with the process here and how this property became allowable for dormitory use at the "11m Hour' because this use was not an original use in the Central Street Plan. A dormitory use does not fit in the character intended for the Central Street Corridor Plan. Ken Bailev. agrees with 'sir. Beaulieu concerning the process in which the dormitory use was added as an allowable use in the "11`s hour." He clarified his opinion of the PACE program being a very well ran and beneficial program, however a dormitory use by any school or program is not appropriate for this location. Mr. Bailey stated that the Planning & Development Committee members are responsible for upholding the law and protecting the citizens and this is what should be considered in this case; including another big issue and concern with taking this building off the tax roll Which will affect property tax paying citizens. Mr. Bailey went over the definition of Office Use for ground floor spaces on Central Street_ Rona Fanker( ).. is a parent of a PACE Student that will be in the program and living at this site if approved. She read from a prepared statement that basically expressed in disbelief the comments and protest Against the PACE dormitory being located at this site. Even though many have stated that this has nothing to do with the PACE program itself. she senses a strong apprehension from the current area residents that the neighborhood would be hammed by these students living in such close proximity. Ms. Fanker assured that the PACE students are not criminals or sexual deviants and recommended that the neighbors attempt to visit the PACE program to see first hand of what type of curriculum and people belong to this program. Amv Rosters. 2524 Ashland, raised a question regarding the heated sidewalk from the building to the parking lot. She wanted to know if this new sidewalk was talking up current green space. She also wanted to know- if there will 23 or 24 parking spaces. Mr. Roberts responded that the new heated sidewalk µill replace where there is currently asphalt. Also there are 36 parking spaces in the lot now, the original proposal was for 20 parking spaces, and the plan has been amended by adding back 4 more spaces, which are actually 3 handicapped spaces. End of Citizen Comments Ald. Tisdahl stated that all dorms are not created equal. She agrees with the neighbors concerns with the closeness of window to window between the building and the adjoining residences. However, she feels the applicant has addressed the privacy concerns with the new window treatments and the added landscaping. She noted that the PACE program and students have been in the 76 Ward for a lone time and have always been good neighbors and an excellent well -tan program. Therefore. she supports this special use request. P&D Consurnnee Mtg. Minutes of 6-23-08 Page 4 Mr. Roberti also informed the Committee and audience that they will also install a closed-circuit T.V. monitoring system for the parking lot and will have a card access security system for the students that will be living in the dormitory. Ald. Hansen expressed her concem with the dormitory being used or leased to other educational programs during the summer months. Therefore. Aid. Hansen moved to amend the Ordinance by adding, a condition of the special use that the dormitory is for the PACE Program only, seconded by Aid. Jean -Baptiste- Discussion followed amongst the Committee with concerns that this condition would limit educational training use during the summer months. Aid. Holmes then motioned to amend Aid. Hansen's motion to the condition of the special use can be used by the PACE Program from September through August for dormitory use and educational and training purposes that benefit the program. The amended motion was seconded by Aid. Hansen. fir. Dunkley clarified that the special use states that the building is to be used primarily as a dormitory use, which include the summer months as well. Aid. Moran feels this amendment to the ordinance will significantly alter the special use application. He read front the Spacial use application for certainty. Aid. Rainey expressed her opposition to this special use application specifically with regards to the tax situuion and the building being removed from the tax roil. Site noted that the applicant has expressed their unwillingness to negotiate any type of payment -in -lieu of agreement and this position by the applicant, is what caused her to be opposed. Otherwise, she is a supporter of the PACE Pro_snsm and has always had a high regard for the work they do with their students and how the studtmts conduct themselves in society. The vote on the amendment to the ordinance was 7 In favor and I (Rainey) against the motion. Aid. Tisdahl moved approval of the amended ordinance, seconded by Aid. Bernstein. The vote was 7 In favor of the motion and l voting nay (Rainey). (N) Amendment to Conditions of 1963 Soeciai use for 1233 Central Street Aid. Tisdahl informed the Committee that she has not had an opportunity to meet with The neighbors by hwlnc a joint neighborhood meeting with the applicant present due to their time restraints with extensive traveling schedules. She wanted this known before the applicant's presentation and any deliberation by the Committee is conducted. Mr. Dunkley gave a brief background chronology on this case and he brought attention to the updated site p'L= distributed this evening to the Committee from the applicant. Mr. Geoff Wi?son, desicnated agent on behalf of the National Council for the Baha'i explained their hardship with parking issues since they original bought the building in 1973. He noted that conditions have changed urmendousl%. since that time and they need to upgrade and expand their lot to accomnx-date their employees and services ot3ered at this location. Ile pointed out that the present lot has 57 parking spaces of which 3 are handicapped. The proposal is to expand to 71 spaces, which is an increase of 1.1. Mr. Wilson explained that they propose to narrow down the existing 27' Iarsdwape and add densely planted hedges and fencing. He said there will still be approximately 9.6' from the street side lot line alone Asbury Avenue where the minimum of 27' is required and proximately 3' from the north property line where a minimum of 5' is required. P&D Committee Mig. Minutes of 6-2-1-09 Page 5 He pointed out that the existing shrubbery is old and in bad condition and the new proposed shrubbery would be an arboreta(?) shrub and is very dense and a good source of screening from the main streets. Mr. Wilson concluded by requesting the Committee's support because they are experiencing a parking problem, especially with the restricted parking in the area. The close proximity to the CTA and hospital further add to the parking situation because so many park nearby and walk to both of these facilities. Chair Wollin fccls that a lot of new information has been added this evening; however she wanted to let give the applicant an opportunity to give their presentation. Her position would be to hold this item due to time and needing to go into the City Council meeting. This was also the consensus of the Committee members. Aid. Tisdahi asked to even hold this item over to the second meeting in July which would give her a chance to hold a neighborhood meeting with the Baha'i as soon as they can agree on a date. The Committee members all agreed. Aid. Tlsdahl moved to hold this item in Committee until the July 28" meeting, seconded by Aid. Hansen. The vote ivas 8-0 in favor of the motion. CO11NItINICAT ION PD) Letter of June 12. 2008 from Stan Janusz- Assistant Director, Housing. Rehabilitation & Pronerty Standards. addressine his 27 vears of service with the; Citv upon his retirement on June 20.2005 Mr. Janusz letter was acknowledged and the Committee expressed their appreciation for all his hard work done over his 27 year tenure. ADJOURNMENT The meeting was adjourned at 8:50 p.nL Respectively Submitted, Jacqueline E. Brownlee Planning 3 Development Committee Meeting Minutes of July 14. 2008 Council Chambers - 6:30 p.m. Evanston Civic Center Alderman Present: S. Bernstein, D. Holmes, A. Hansen, L. Jean -Baptiste, E. Moran, A. Rainey. E. Tisdahl, C. Wollin Staff Present: D. Marino. J. Brownlee, D. Argumenta, J. Chambers, K. Cox, B. Dunkley, R. Russell, D. Spicuzza, L. Woods Presiding Official: Alderman Wollin DECLARATION OF QUORUM Chair Wollin called the meeting to order at 7:14 p.m. She announced there will be a change ir, the agenda order due to time constraints for specific applicants and Importance of the issue for agenda items. APPROVAL OF THE JUNE 23. 2008 MEETING MINUTES The meeting minutes of June 23.2008 were approved unanimously. ITEM FOR DISCUSSION jPDII Discussion of Process for Considering Pr000sed Amendments for a Curb Cut to the Aooroved Planned Develooment for 1890 Moole Avenue Mr. Dave Reitman of DLA Piper Law Firm accompanied by Mr. Gregg Graines. representw-ng Carroll Properties, Inc. (the Developer), opened comment. He recalled that on September 24, 2007, City Council approved the Planned Development Ordinance No. 45-0-07, for the redevelopment of this site with a mixed use project. He further noted that one of the conditions that was agreed upon for the commercial space wi- iin this planned development was for a specified grocery/food store tenant on the first floor retail space of this project. Mr. Reifman stated that they have been in active negotiations since that time and have narrowed the potential grocery store use down to Trader Joe's. He noted that they have executed a letter of intent, however, with the tent that requires a full access curb cut to the store being provided off of Emerson Street, which results in the applicant's request for consideration of the proposec amendment to the original approved planned development ordinance. Mr. Reifmon acknowledged in attendance for representation of this request, Mr. N. Deegan 'Tom IDS Real Estate Group. which is the national tenant representative for Trader Jce's Inc.: aiong with Mr. Randy Deutsch from Fitzgerald & Associates Architect Firm and a representative from KLOA Traffic Consultants. Mr. Deegan informed the P&D Committee that his real estate firm has been involved in numerous negotiations with the City of Evanston over the past 8 years to locate a Trader Jc---'s estabr"ishment within the City and have been in active negotiation process within the past 18 month with Carroll Properties resulting in an agreement with a letter of intent provided that a full access curb cut can be obtained off of Emerson Street. He noted with assurance that no other special requests have been requested along with this. Mr. Reitman stated that they were not requesting any additional relief. Mr. Deegan stated that they are very confident with this proposed commercial use for this location in view of the neighborhood specifics and close proximity to the contiguous north shore communities. Mr. Randy Deutsch, representing Fitzgerald & Associates Architect Firm followed with a slide presentation showing views of the proposed curb cut from several different locations of the development. The representative from KLOA followed with visual presentation of the actual proposed curb cut off Emerson Street. He noted that the proposal is for a 24' wide curb cut approximately 200'+ west of Maple Avenue, allowing one lane access for entrance and exit. Aid. Jean -Baptiste motioned to direct staff to draft an ordinance to amend the approved Planned Development Ordinance #45-0-07 to Include the proposed curb cut as presented this evening by the appacant. Aid. Holmes seconded the motion. Ald. Hansen stated that her position on this issue. which originally was in opposition to this planned development, remains the some. She reiterated her opinion that this particular site is inappropriate for a project of this size. Also she recalled discussion and testimony at the time of the original approval of the planned development and cautioned the Committee to remember the concerns for traffic on Emerson Street if any access to this site were located on this through way. The Committee members agreed and requested that City Traffic Engineering staff be available of the next Council Meeting to address the traffic issues and concerns for this location. The vote was 8 In favor of the motion and 1 voting nay (Hansen). ITEMS FOR CONSIDERATION IP2i Plan Commission Recommendotion to Denv a Planned Development and Mao Amendment for 1031 Sherman Avenue Chair Wallin called on the one citizen signed up to speak regarding this case. Mr. John Caldwell expressed his opposition for this planned development and map amendment specifically because the project is not in context with the neighborhood. He stated several reasons backing his opposition and feels that the majority of his neighbors stand with the some position as he does. He urged the Committee to support the Plan Commission's recommendation for denial of this project. Mr. Dan Shapiro, Attorney for the applicant and property owner, Mr. Michael Dalton, told the Committee that they will not be making any presentation or presenting any new proposals or testimony this evening. Aid. Bernstein motioned to accept the Plan Commission's recommendation for denial of the Planned Development and Map Amendment, seconded by Aid. Wynne. He stated that in his 11 years on the Council, this is one of the most ill-conceived projects he has witnessed. He also pointed out for the record, that the Plan Commission did not actually vote on either part of this request, therefore he clarified that his motion is for recommendation to deny both the Planned Development and the Map Amendment as it was presented on the application. All the Committee members accepted Ald. Bernstein's clarification. Ald. Bernstein asked the applicant's council to stipulate that the will of the Plan Commission was to deny both the planned development and the map amendment. Applicant's council so stipulated. The vote was 9-0 In favor of the motion. (PI 1 Ordinance 86-0-08 - Zonina Ordinance Mao Amendment - 1829-31 Simp;on Street Mr. Dunkley. Zoning Administrator, stated that this has been a long and difficult case due to the history of this building and the overall residential zoning of this immediate area. He noted that the application was presented by the property owner, Flepspace LLC, and also noted that this property has been vacant since the rezoning to the R3 Two-family residential district. Mr. Dunkley continued with a brief history of the zoning changes that have been made to this properly. He also directed the Committee's attention to the chart included in the packet materials that compares the existing R3 Residential Zoning to the proposed B1 and MU base zoning district regulations. In summary, Mr. Dunkley stated that in his opinion, the more appropriate alternate zoning for this target building and immediate area would be to rezone the property 10 the MU - Transitional Manufacturing zoning district, and he clearly summarizes his reasoning in the staff memorandum dated May 14.2008 included in the packet materials. He noted that the applicant originally requested a B1 zoning map amendment because it most closely related to the proposed utilization of the existing building which the owner wanted to use as an artist's studio/cabinetry workshop. Aid. Holmes informed the Committee that she has been active and has followed the rezoning of this building from the beginning. Although she personally has no opposition to the current owner's proposed use of this building, it should be acknowledged that the previous owner tried numerous times to make this building into a use that would adequately fit within the neighborhood. however those proposals were either rejected or denied due to the current zoning that this building was under. She clarified that her position on this case is sim.;,ty to support the position of the immediate neighboring property owners which are her constituents, who are in opposition to this map amendment request. Therefore, Aid. Holmes motioned to reject the Plan Commission's recommendation for approval of the Zoning Map Amendment, seconded by Aid. Bernstein. Ald. Rainey stated that she fully understands Aid. Holmes position on this matter, however she can not oppcse what the current owner is proposing for use of this property as an artist's studio and workshop. She feels this use is passive in comparison to what could be proposed cs a use for this building. The proposed use would not detriment the neighborhood and would actually add light and life to the end of Dodge Avenue and cause no negative impact and also end the blight of this intersection. She added that even if the property were to remain in the R3 Zoning District, the proposed use would not be a detriment to the immediate neighborhood because it is such a low impact use. She noted that this building has been a "dump" and vacant property for a long period of time and it could be a welcomed re -use of this site. Aid. Tisdahl assured her support for Aid. Holmes position but also agrees with Aid. Rainey's position as stated. She asked Aid. Holmes what she foresees as an acceptable use and zoning district for this location. Aid. Holmes reiterated that her only reason is that she stands strong on her position to support her constituents that do not want this proposed zoning mop amendment for this building. She feels a request for special use can be applied for within the current zoning district. Aid. Rainey noted that if is possible for the applicant to make a special use request far an artist studio under the current R3 zoning district if he/she so desires. With no further discussion, the vote was 9.0 in favor of the motion. (PD21 Local Resources for Foreclosure Prevention in Evanston Ms. Donna Spicuzza, City Housing Planner, recalled the request from the P&D Committee at their last meeting for staff to provide a packet of possible resources to aid homeowners should they hove trouble or need assistance with mortgage payments in the case of possible foreclosure proceedings and foreclosure prevention counseling. She drew the Committee's attention to staff's memorandum and attached information and a resource list provided in the packet. Aid. Rainey expressed her concern about the quality of counseling being provided and questioned whether staff has actualty attended some of these forums and counseling meetings. Ms. Spicuzza assured her that she has been involved from the beginning with the recommended agencies and has also attended forums and counseling meetings. She feels confident with the agencies being referred by City staff. Aid. Jean -Baptiste acknowledged his experience with numerous foreclosure cases and the reasoning behind them. In light of this experience. he would recommend that City staff and Council meet and work with the hearing Judges for foreclosures to be more pro -active and intervene with the homeowner before such drastic status becomes the lost resort, as in so many cases. He also recommends that staff find a way to intervene and schedule meetings to reach groups of people who may take advantage of the numerous written notifications that are sent out. He feels this could be most helpful in on effort to reach a large majority of the people risking foreclosure possibility. Ald. Rainey made a suggestion to staff that information could be sent out with water bills which is a definite possible way of reaching every property owner. She also suggested adding information on the Chicago based organizations that aid risk -level homeowners of foreclosure. Aid. Tisdohl questioned it it is possible to use all the affordable housing funds to help people who are at risk of foreclosure instead of using these funds to purchase and provide affordable housing to purchase. She strongly feels this would put such funds to much more use. Aid. Rainey agreed. She also strongly feels it is much more important to use affordable funds to help people save their ownership of their properties when at risk of foreclosure versus using those funds for more affordable housing developments. Mr. Marino agreed and supports the positions stated by the Committee members this evening. He assured that staff is very sensitive to the general public and supports the most helpful and positive use of the affordable housing funds. OTHER MATTERS Mr. Morino introduced Mr. Dominick Argurnedo as the newly hired Zoning Planner and acknowledged his educational background and professional experience. ADJOURNMENT The meeting was adjourned at 8:29 p.m. Respectfully submitted. .Jacqueline E. Brownlee Planning R Development Committee Meeting Minutes of July 28.2008 Council Chambers - 7:00 p.m. Evanston Civic Center Aldermen Present: D. Holmes, L. Jean -Baptiste, E. Moran, A. Rainey, E. T'isdahl, C. Wollin, M. Wynne Staff Present: J. Chambers, K. Cox, B. Dunkley, D. Marino, B. Newman, A. Stuart Presiding Official: Alderman Wollin DECLARATION OF QUORUM Chair Wollin called the meeting to order at 7:35 p.m. APPROVAL OF THE JULY 14. 2008 MEETING MINUTES Mr. Marino proposed changes to the July 14, 2008 PEED meeting minutes on pages 2 and 3, and other grammatical corrections. Aid. Rainey motioned to approve the July 14, 2008 minutes, as corrected. The Committee voted unanimously to In favor of the motion. Chair Wollin announced that she would like the P&D Committee to make a reference to the Plan Commission for a text amendment. The text amendment would say that gun shops are not permitted uses in any retail area. Aid. Rainey suggested that the amendment would read that gun shops are not a permitted use or special use in any area, the reason being that the hand gUn ban did not prohibit the sale of hand guns in the City of Evanston, therefore they could be slipped in as a retail use. Aid. Rainey asked if it could be expedited by the Plan Commission. Chair Wollin acknowledged her request and said she believes the Plan Commission is meeting in August. ITEMS FOR CONSIDERATION IP11 Amendment to Conditions of 1963 Special Use for 1233 Central Street This item had been withdrawn by the applicant. Pt"ng 6 De►clopmerti CGr-nr•e i.4lItLnQ V.--tes P ]e Z 7/28/08 fP21 Resolution 48-R-08 - De<_3anatina the Portion of Simpson Street between Ashland Avenue and Greenbav Road with the Honorary Name. "Rev. Dr. Michael D. Curry Wav" The Committee voted unanimously to approve. fP51 Motion to Approve a Sidewalk Cafd in Great Harvest Bread Co. Bakervs 2126 Central Street The Committee voted unanimously to approve. Aid. Wollin cautioned all the sidewalk caf&s to stay within the boundaries,, since Central Street is such a busy street. JP31 Ordinance 90-0-08 - Proaosed Ordinance Amendina the Approved, Planned Develooment for 1890 Maple Avenue Aid. Jean -Baptiste moved approval of the Ordinance. Aid. Rainey stated that the neighborhood is excited about the grocer coming to Evanston. She asked for an exp;onation of the conditions placed on this grocer's presence. She asked if there was another cost other than the cost of the parking meter revenue reimbursement fee applying to the conditions. Other members of the Committee said there were no other costs applying to the conditions. Chair Wollin introduced W. David Reitman from the law firm of DLA Piper. He addressed Aid. Rainey's question about the conditions, saying that in Section 5 of the proposed ordinance there is also a condition that the applicant undertake various modifications to the curb, sidewalk and parkway in addition to the fee for removal of the perking meters. He does not believe there are any modifications required for Emerson Street, and the developer has already agreed to make a significant contribution to the City. The one thing that the applicant would request oil City Council is that they be open to a portion of that contribution being used to undertake this improvement. Aid. Wynne asked that he clar,fy. Mr. Reitman replied that Aid. Rainey asked about conditions that wou'.d be required. He again referred to the requirement in Section 5 B of the proposed ordinance that the applicant pay certain parking meter replacement fees, tha: the applicant pay for certain right-of-way modifications for sidewalks, cures and so forth, and the applicant would like the City Council, in that case. 'o consider that it be offset against the amount that the applicant previously agreed ,o contribute to the City, of $150,000. Ald. Wynne asked if he was sc� ing that the money that they had previously agreed to provide as a public oenefit would be used to pay for the curb cut. Mr. Reitman replied that that wcs not what he was asking. He explained that he was referring to the various mod ►cations in the right-of-way that are required on Plamhq & Dewlopment Car -matte Meorg M rxAes Page 3 7128108 University to accommodate the movement of trucks. Aid. Wynne said that it is not described very well. Mr. Reifman agreed. She read, "the applicant shall create engineering plans wherein thereafter construct any modifications to the curb, sidewalk or parkway necessary." He explained that they are only speaking about certain modifications on University Place to accommodate the trucks that will back in there. Aid. Wynne further clarified that he was saying that they are proposing to use the money that they had previously offered as a contribution to the City. to permit the loading there. Mr. Reifman replied that yes, the applicant Is asking that a portion of it be used for that purpose. Aid. Wynne argued that it is because of their trucks that the modification must be made on University. Mr. Reitman said it is a contribution where there is no impact from the development, adding that it Is simply a consideration for the Council to consider, if they so choose. He added that the applicant is frying to make the project work economically and otherwise, for the City. Ald. Wynne then asked whether the applicant would absorb the cost of the curb cut on Emerson, which Mr. Reifman confirmed. Mr. Reifman introduced Eric Russell, Principal at Kenig, Lindgren. O'Hara. Aboona, Inc., (KLOA), retained by the developer. to make a presentation on the revised traffic analysis for the 1890 Maple project. Mr. Russell explained: The original study was done in 2006 and has since been revised with the new plan. The changes were reviewed at the last meeting and are reviewed in a July 1711,2008 memo from Staff. The previous plan was a 14 story building with 152 dwelling units, 40.000 sq. ft. of retail space, 269 parking spaces within the building and 44 to be leased from the Maple parking garage, as per the lease with the existing building on the site. The revised plan is also a 14 story building with i54 dwelling units and 15,500 sq. ft. of retail space (as opposed to 40,000 with previous plan). The vast majority of this retail space is for Trader Joe's. There will be a smaller, 2,000 sq. it, additional unit in the building. The building will have 271 parking spaces, exceeding the City's requirements for both retail and residential, and there will be no additional parking spaces leased in the Maple garage. Trader Joe's operating hours are nationwide 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., so the traffic from Trader Joe's does not impact morning rush hour conditions. Consequently, this revised project will generate a little less impact than the previous plan. There will be about 50 more trips, generated, 25 cars in, 25 cars out, during the peak evening rush hour with a supermarket on the property as opposed to general specialty retail space. Mr. Russell showed on aerial view of the properly showing the access drive being proposed from Emerson Street. a little more than 200 feet to the west of Maple. It would be a two tone, one lane in, one Cane out. driveway. The previous plan had all access for both the residential and the retail space from a service drive that accessed University Place into a courtyard area into the back of the building. Ali truck, retail access. residents, employees and patrons needed to come off of University Place. With the revved plan, the access to the retail space (Trader Joe's) is directly off of Emerson, as is access to the reserved parking spaces that serve the residents of the buila,ng. The only vehicles that would use the rear service alley would be the trucks that service Trader Joe's. The truck dock would be in the back of the building, which is important to point Planning & Dcwloprre�% Comm aee'&—_mg ►J:rxses Page 4 7128108 out because at the lost Council meetings there was a lot of concern from the residents about traffic movement on University Place, a 24' wide street with a parking lane on the south side. Staff was not favorable to the idea of removing this parking. There is a need for it to serve some of the buildings on the block. A lot of the residents pointed out that there are Federal Express trucks and a University shuttle bus that runs down University and when a truck and a bus are on that street, it makes it difficult for two cars to pass each other. Another concern was having direct access to the retail space off of an arterial street makes it easier than rear access from a way -finding perspective, making this a superior plan. It also keeps the vast majority of traffic off University Place, except for the small amount of truck activity associated with Trader 1oe's: 1-3 trucks a day. They use semi -trailer trucks. 62' and 75' in length. They have committed to using only the 62' long trucks. The truck access route would be to and from the west on Emerson to East RaVood to University Place, pull forward into the driveway, and back into the loading dock with the assistance of a flogger who would come out when they arrive. A curb modification is required for the right turn of those trucks on to East Railroad. There is a 10' radius that would need to be increased to about 25'. As the trucks continue down East Railroad they will make a left turn on University. This radius needs to be improved also and two of the parking places would need to be removed with reimbursement to the City. There are also some curb modifications of the southeast corner of the driveway for the trucks to pull forward and back into the loading dock. As those trucks exit the property, they would pull forward and head to the east out to Maple, turn north on Maple and west on Emerson. Traffic will circulate to and from the main driveway on Emerson, the vast majority of the traffic wig come from the west. Most of that traffic will use Emerson to turn right into the driveway. The driveway from the service court is 17' wide. The developer has proposed to widen it to 20'. There were some street improvements that were committed to by the City as part of the previous project for this property as well as for 1881 Oak. Three, in particular, are: 1 j On request of Staff, they have devised a retiming plan for the traffic signals on Emerson as a pre -cursor to the system upgrade that will eventually happen on Emerson. 2) They requested and the City agreed that parking will be removed from the south side of Emerson. Removing the parking from the south side of Emerson affects a little over 20 parking spaces, but there is enough width to creole a four -lane roadway while still molntaining the parking lane on the north side. 3) The restriction of some parking spaces on the north side of Emerson, close to the retail center, to increase the stacking space of both westbound lanes as they approach Ridge on Emerson. These improvements are needed today, let alone in the future when a new development occurs. with these improvements, the Intersections along Emerson, Ridge. Greenboy, Oak and Maple will operate at levels D or better, D being satisfactory. Some will be better than D. By shifting the access drive from University to Emerson except for trucks, all the traffic for 1890 Maple wPl be accessing directly from Emerson, so from the projection of traffic lines on Oak, it has come down considerably, and Oak will operate in a much better condition, under stop control, without the need for a signal. The Panning & Development Commie Meetng M nutes Page 5 2128108 driveway to the project will also be under stop control. It does not warrant a signal. KLOA's analysis and the analysis done by Staff also shows this. KLOA also did a gap study to ensure that the driveway on Emerson would work well. They stationed someone out at that point for several hours in the evening, including rush hour, and timed the gaps that were long enough for a car to pull out into two way traffic. Between 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. there were for in excess the number of gaps as the number of left turning vehicles they projected would make a turn onto Emerson. Thai study, done before the construction started, was based on the current configuration of Emerson as a two lane road with parking on both sides. When the parking lane on the south side is removed, and Emerson becomes a 4-lane roadway, that increased capacity moves traffic through quicker and creates even more gaps. Mr. Russell summarized the way the roadway would function: there would be a 4-lane roadway, there would be a parking lane on the north side, there would be no turn tones, and there would be no restrictions on the movements in or out of the driveway. It would look very much like Greenboy road in front of Dominick's. Staff reserves the right to restrict movements in the future if traffic is not operating satisfactority or if traffic increases. Mr. Russell showed an animated illustration of future rush hour traffic conditions reflecting traffic from their development and other developments not yet occupied. The illustration showed no backup of cars in the driveway for the project. Aid. Wollin called John Burke, Public Works Director, and Rojeev Dahal, Senior Traffic Engineer, to offer comments. Mr. Burke stated that in analyzing the proposed changes in access, they looked at the accommodations that would be required in the form of curb modifications, parking reductions and traffic operations, to safety accommodate the trucks into the access reor access drive. They also looked at the driveway itself, the key issue being ensuring sufficient gaps for cars to pull in and out. Their analysis showed a satisfactory level of service. He introduced Mr. Dahol. Mr. Dahal confirmed that Trader Joe's will be limited to using 62' long trucks and to make a turn for a 62' truck, the modifications have to be made at Emerson and East Railrood, and at University and the access drive. There is one parking space on East Railroad just south of Emerson that will be affected because it will be in the way of the truck making that turn, and two metered spaces on University will be affected. The memo from Mr. Dahal and Mr. Burke to Council refers to the cost revenue to the City. Besides that, with a flogger at the intersection of University and access road, this plan should operate fine. They also looked at the driveway access. Trader Joe's will add about 50 more trips during the evening peak hour. They checked the level of service for the driveway on Emerson. it operates at the level of C. which is acceptable. It relates to about 20 plus seconds of delay. The delay on Emerson may even be less than 10 seconds. left turns from Emerson to the drive will be at level of service A. The delay is more for traffic coming out of Trader Joe's and trying to ' n� & Detieiopme" Corrrr gee Veetng Mira% Page 6 make that left turn onto Emerson. That will be approximately a 20 second delay. Staff looked into putting in a left turn lane. They could do it, but they would lose a number of parking spaces on the north side of Emerson. They did not deem that desirable because they need to maintain some parking on the north side. Chair Wollin called for the two citizens who signed up to speak: Tina Paden of 1122 Emerson Street, 'h block away from 1890 Maple, distributed pictures of the area. She said that she believes she should have had some notice of significant changes, adding that one of the parking spaces proposed to be removed is one she uses regularly. She owns 4 pieces of property on her block. She has tenants and a beauty shop that requires parking for customers. The first picture she presented was of the street between 1033 and 1001 University, showing the original plan for traffic to come through University off of Maple, which she and neighbors sold was not sufficient. She said the developers also realize that it is not sufficient. The second picture she presented is of the narrow street off of University. his. Paden showed a picture of a FedEx truck in the area behind 1890 Maple. where traffic would enter on University, and another showed the area where the developer proposes to put the entrance on Emerson, which she said is ridiculous. She said it is difficult to pass on University with buses frequently coming down East Railroad to University, and the two new developments are not even there. Ms. Paden also showed a picture of Farmer's Market, saying they start unloading their trucks at 4:30 a.m. and that they take handicap only parking spaces. The next picture showed what the developer says is not a heavy traffic area. She said she has lived there all her life and at Emerson and Ridge the traffic is outrageous and that you cannot come out on Emerson and East Railroad. She showed a picture of traffic on Emerson from Oak and Maple, saying it is backed up and it is not just during construction time, but all the time during rush hour. She said 154 residential units will mean 2 cars per family in and out. She said she fives and works in Evanston and uses her car every day. She said that it is not only the traffic from Trader Joe's, but it is the traffic from the residents and their visitors, to consider. 1t is supposed to be a walkable block. That is why they discussed having the entrance in the back. Now it is all different. The next pick re Ms. Paden presented was of a truck accident on Emerson and East Railroad. The truck almost ran into her house. She said the developers are discussing this type of truck coming down East Railroad and she thinks it is ridiculous. Ms. Paden concluded that Emerson already needs help and they are talking about adding a store and 154 units and she thinks it is ridiculous and she r-ninks :t is outrageous that she has not received any kind of notice of this type of cnange in her neighborhood. Mr. Carliss Sutton of 1821 Darrow introduced himself, saying he has three major concerns with this development. 1) There is currently parking on both sides of the street, and he would feel more com!oriable it Council would consider timed parking on the south street like they have on Ridge: 7-9a.m. in one direction and 4-6p.m. in the opposite direction during rush hour. 2) He is concerned that with the curb space being taken they should put up a blinking light or a sign asking r larnng S Dew;Opmcrt Comrr.ttee Mee ng V yes Page 7 7128108 people not to block the driveway. He realized that this would be a problem recently since he lives in the 1700 block of Emerson where now they can cross the street any time only because the bridge is under construction. Once the bridge is completed, the traffic will again consistently block the street so residents cannot cross Darrow and Dewey. This will exacerbate that backup. 3) He asked, If they take away the parking on Emerson, where the people who came to church on Sunday will park. He asked where the patrons of Trader Joe's would park, and whether they would be sharing parking spaces with the residents. Mr. Randy Deutsch, the architect for the project, responded that the parking for retail will be on the second fk>or and there are 66 spaces, as required by Trader Joe's and also meeting the City's requirements. The residents' parking is on floors above. Chair Wolfin said it appears that 4 lanes of traffic on Emerson should help move the traffic more quickly. Mr. Russell agreed, saying that was the intention of the plan. He said that he never said traffic was not congested on Emerson and that the reason for the series of improvements is to try to alleviate traffic flow on Emerson. Creating a 4 lane roadway is a major improvement over what is there today. Aid. Rainey said she was concerned about the requirement of a payment for the removal of two parking metered spaces in the Staff memo, She said Tina Paden's pictures show several unmetered spaces. She suggested that we take some of the meters they are removing and put them at the unmetered spaces. Aid. Rainey was informed that the unmetered spaces ore 2-hour spaces. Ald. Wynne responded that the Parking Committee will examine that issue. Aid. Rainey moved that the fee for removal of 2 parking meters be deleted. The motion was seconded. Aid. Rainey argued that this is a huge project and she feels it is nickel and diming. There have been thousands of dollars contributed for various funds. Ald. Holmes asked whether Mr_ Sutton's suggestion about peak hour timed parking is possible, knowing that it is difficult to park on Emerson and Oak on Sundays especially. or maybe not on rush hour or just in a designated area during non -peak times. Mr. Burke said Staff could look at that possibility with the Parking Committee. A lot of it depends on the certainty of the deliveries and being able to control that activity. Aid. Wynne. addressing Ald. Rainey's motion, said that the parking meter fee is a standard procedure that the City uses with developers who have made many other contributions to the City. It indicates the income that would be produced by the meter over time. Everyone would ask to waive it if it is waived this time. Aid. Rainey said that she is suggesting moving these meters to a different area in Pamrg & Development Comm .ee Meetng MLrUes Page 8 7) 7F�08 this case. Aid. Wynne argued that they calculate the amount that is used by each meter, and the other location may not calculate the some amount of revenue. Aid. Rainey replied that if they put 10 in those many unmetered spaces, it will generate the same amount as those two. Aid. Wynne said she does not think we should let a penny go. Mr. Burke confirmed that the fee is calculated by the lost meter's revenue. Aid. Rainey said she is suggesting this because 1) Many spaces are not metered, 2) We asked the developer to get a grocery store. The grocery store said they %trill not come unless the driveway is in the front. Maybe we should have Trader Joe's pay for the parking meter fee. Aid. Wynne said that we should not weigh each parking meter fee on what the development brings to the City. She feels we shou!d maintain the policy. Aid. Rainey asked Staff what we charged Bristol Development for using the parking lot at the corner of Howard and Chicago Ave, r:.r. Burke replied that it was before his time but he believes it was a negotiated amount. Aid. Jean -Baptiste suggested Aid. Wynne meet with the Parking Committee and find out how much revenue would be generated by putting the additional parting meters in the unmetered spaces to see if it could be recouped that way. Aid. Holmes asked Aid. Wynne whether the Parking Committee considers the revenue that the new development might be generating to offset the removal of parking meters. Aid. Wynne replied that with the developments she has been involved with the City is charging them for the parking meters that will be permanently removed from the street. She added that this development with Trader Joe's will be an enhancement, but the value of a metered parking space on the street is hard to calculate because people don't like parking in any structure. Aid. Moran agreed that the City shou;d not refuse $8,000 a year, saying that whether we want to put meters in all the unmetered spaces is a separate issue. Aid. Wollin clarified that it is $4.500 per year for both meters. Aid. Rainey argued that there are 2 parking spaces with meters, but there are 50 or 60 in the some neighborhood where people are parking for free. We have an issue to send to the Parking Committee. which is of there could be revenue generated from these unmetered spaces. Ald. Holmes agreed, about other areas of the City too. Aid. Wynne said the Parking Committee will take every suggestion. Ald, Tisdahl said that she supports having the developer pay as we have done before and she thanked Ald. Rainey for noticing the unmetered spaces. The Committee voted 4 - 3 against removing the fee for replacing the two metered parking spaces on University Place, which Is an amount of $4,500 per year. Aid. Moran said the traffic looked worse in the presentation. The back end traffic proceeding West at the light at Ridge was getting close to coming out at Maple Avenue. You can't get out of Oak to go west now. With two large buildings there it will be much worse. Aid. Wallin said that ti:-,at is not what Staff said. Mr. ?ia*rtrx� b C)eveioprnent Comm itee Meel,ng M:rt [es Page 9 7/28/08 Russell said they showed the model of existing conditions at the last meeting, where traffic did extend back to Maple. This model did not show traffic extending to Maple or to the driveway to Trader Joe's. It showed traffic extending just beyond Oak. The Committee voted 6 -1 to approve proposed Ordinance 90.0-08, amending approved the Planned Development. fP41 Ordinance 88-0-08 - Modification to the Soecial Sian District for Bravo Restaurant fformeriv Wolfaana Puck's) Consideration for improved modifications for signs at 1701 Maple. Signs are black and white signs with discreet wording on the lower portion. There was a request to suspend the rules and to pass it in City Council. The Committee voted unanimously to approve. REM FOR DISCUSSION 1 PDI t Discussion of Reauest for a Time Extension for the 959 Dobson Street Aooroved Planned Development The Planned Development expired in February 2008 and the applicant has requested a retroactive extension for one year. Aid. Rainey recommended that the extension be granted. Staff will bring it back to Committee at the next session for approval. Aid. Rainey suggested a tickler file system be implemented to remind developers when expiration is drawing near, which Staff has created. Mr. Dunkley suggested the expiration date be stated in the Planned Development Ordinance and noted that the Special Use Permit does not require a Planned Development to have requested and received an extension prior to the expiration date. ADJOURNMENT The meeting was adjourned at 8:47 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Bobbie Newman Planning 3 Development Committee Meeting Minutes of August 11. 2008 Council Chambers - 7:30 p.m. Evanston Civic Center Aldermen Present: S. Bernstein, A. Hansen, D. Holmes, E. Moran, A. Rainey, E. Tisdahl, C. Wollin, M. Wynne Staff Present: K. Cox, B. Dunkley. D. Marino. B. Newman, D. Spicuaa Aldermen Absent: L. Jean -Baptiste Presiding Official: Alderman Wolfin DECLARATION OF QUORUM Chair Wallin called the meeting to order at 7:45 p.m.. a quorum being present. APPROVAL OF THE JULY 28. 2008 MEETING MINUTES The Committee voted unanimously 8-0 to approve the July 28, 2008 minutes, ITEMS FOR CONSIDERATION f P 11 Ordinance 95-0-08 - Maior Variation to Allow Open Parkina in Front Yord - 1317 Livinaston Consideration of a major variation to allow open parking in the front yard of 1317 Livingston. This case is sent from the Zoning Board of Appeals with ❑ 3 in favor, 2 against, vote and recommended for approval by the Site Plan and Appearance Committee. Ald. Tisdohl left the Council Chambers while voting took place because of a conflict of interest in this case. Ald. Wallin stated that the applicant is asking for :he pre-existing driveway, which is slightly narrower than is required to remain as it -gas been since 1922. Mr. Marino added that a unique feature that distinguishes this case is that a ramp has been added to the property to make the house handicap accessible, and the parking space in this driveway in front a, she house provides access to it, which is why SPAARC recommended approval. The Committee voted 7-0 to approve the ordinance. May" S D-. rerx Commatee Meeting Mnaes Page 2 Ax�.m E1.2303 (P21 Motion for Aoorovol of a Community Housina Development Oroonization Consideration of an Application by Evanston Community Development Agency {ECDA) to become a City Designated Community Housing Development Organization. Mr. Marino explained that a City Designated Community Housing Development is a CHDO, which is a designation under the HUD Home Program, the federally affordable housing assistance program, and that this organization has already been active and productive in the City. Bishop Williams, the vice President of ECDA, introduced himself, explaining that he has been asked to attend the hearing by Keith Banks, the Director of ECDA, while he is out of town. He asked if there were any questions about the documentation that had been submitted to the Committee. He said that affordable housing has been very important to him. He has worked with Habitat for Humanities and three or four houses they built in Evanston, he worked on the Committee for Family Selection, and he is a lifelong resident of Evanston. His father came here in 1926 and established the God in Christ Church, at which he now Pastors. He does not normally get involved in City matters but this Is important to him. Ald. Wallin thanked him for his involvement. She sold that this would be the 5th CHDO that would be recognized in the City of Evanston. Ald. Bemsteln moved approval of the motion. Ald. Bemstein commented that Habitat for Humanity did not have a favorable experience in Evanston. Bishop Williams stated that he left Habitat for Humanity. At Aid. Bernstein's request i3ishop Williams said he would not model the CHDO after Habitat for Humanity. Ald. Rciney said she has requested a report on why the City discontinued its relationship with Habitat for Humanity. She believes the organization has changed over the years and is currently doing fabulous work. She would like to give there another chance. She asked Bishop Williams what he learned from the project at 736-738 Dobson. Bishop Williams responded that they are learning how to market homes in a fair way so that all can qualify who meet the standards and they are learning to watch their budget when remodeling complete apartments, as was done in this building. They are monitoring their monies very closely now. They sold the 3 bedroom, 2 both, condos for $100,000 each. 1719 McDaniel, their first project, was in deplorable condition and they had to invest quite a bit of money. They Marnng & De^- opmenr Cornmirtee Meeting Mirues Page 3 AuguU F I, 20CS have the thirst for affordable housing ar:d fairness to people and need to continue this work in Evanston. With the help of the City they will continue to do so. He added that Keith Banks is an excellent Director and he is doing a first class job for them. He is an easy man to deal with. Attorneys, architects and the City have donated much to help the organization do their work. they are there to be of service and help people. Aid. Rainey asked whether all the units in the Dobson buZding were sold. Bishop Williams replied that 3 are closed and asked that if she had any candidates, to please send them. One of the applications fell through. Aid. Holmes suggested renting units not only on Dobson, but in other locations, that have not been sold, as affordable rental units, until they can find appropriate purchasers. Ald. iisdahl agreed with the idea of renting with options to buy, since she is concerned about unoccupied housing. Bishop Wilfams said they would consider that. Aid. Rainey said she does not agree because the projects were supported as owner -occupied projects and she has many problems in the 700 block of Dobson with rentals. The agreement was to convert to condominiums from rentals. The City provided money so that they could take a decent building off the market and they gave Reba Place Development Corporation money to take another decent rental building off the market at 602 Mulford. She said that In order to be a CHDO they have to have the foresight to know where the best projects are. She does not support making that building back into a rental. She added that you must have the wherewithal to sustain vacancies in this business. Bishop Williams said he will consider both opinions and that ECDA does not want to do anything contrary to what the City wants. Mr. David Jansen, Recording Secretary for ECDA, or,-- the Executive Director of Reba Place Development Corporation, introduced hirnself and stated that he works literslty side by side with Keith Banks so they con collaborate. He stated that Keith Banks has become an expert at this work. He highly recommends his work and ECDA's work. Turning these properties into rental would perhaps solve some short range problems but they would have to get permission from all of their funders to do that because that was not the condition of the Home Funds, the 1111no:s Housing Development Authority and Federal Home loan Bank, that brought subsidies to these projects, so they are not cclively pursuing that at this point. The Committee voter! 8-8 to approve the motion. 1P31 motion for a One Year Extension of Planned Development Aoorovol for 959 Dobson Street P.ar"'V & 042% _-0-ert Committee Werng UmAes Page 4 nuxx,st 11. 2CC8 Consideration of a one year retroactive extension of Approved Planned Development. 959 Dobson Street, to March 1, 2009 Aid. Rainey moved that the motion be approved. The Committee voted 8.0 to approve. REM FOR DISCUSSION (PDI) Federal Legislative and Fundina Initiatives to Address Foreclosures and other Housina Issues (Passed 7-26-081 Aid. Wallin referred to a memo to the P&D Committee (in the packet materials) from Ms. Donna Spicuzza, the Housing Planner, in which she reported that the newly formed Foreclosure Task Force (primarily made up of not -for -profit agencies) has begun discussing many ways of assisting homeowners near foreclosure. These ideas are to be explored in the coming months, as they establish formulas and regulations for how the federal funding will be allocated. Ms. Spicuzza emphasized that there are still many unknowns but there is a good chance that the City will get a fair amount of funds based on the target requirements because of the number of sub prime loans, foreclosures and at -risk loans in the area. The Foreclosure Task Force wants to be ready with ways to spend the funding wisely, using existing resources in the area. The $3.9 billion currently aveBable appears to be just for the purchase, rehab and resale of buildings. It is not addressing homeowners at risk of foreclosure. The Foreclosure Task Force d',scussed other ways to address the problems the market is facing, such as lease purchase. She will be reporting back to the Committee with more concrete ideas. There is also funding available for foreclosure prevention counseling and legal assistance. �nfo mation about the funding will be disclosed at a later date. Ald. Wallin added that it is recommended that 70% of the money be given to local governments and only 30% to state. The task force discussed a foreclosure flier that cculd be attached to doorknobs for distribution, which affords homeowners privacy, as opposed to coming to a public meeting to obtain information. Fie ffiers could also be posted in community centers. After 60 days, the government has 18 months to disperse the money. In relation to the 18 month requ�retnent. Ms. Spicuzzo added that the advocacy groups have discussed tryi!.g to get the funds committed to specific projects, rather than drawn. This ,&"E be discussed further. The National Affordable Housing Trust Fund that was also estabEished in this legislation will be available within a few years to provide addir=onal funds after this funding runs out. The goal right now is mainly to develop rental housing for extremely low income people. Plamrig & Detiecprre^t Ccrrm,;tee Mmng Miru2es azge 5 August f . 2008 Mr, Morino added that this legislation also provides lenders with some incentives and risk reduction techniques to be able to re -finance people that are in danger of foreclosure. estimated nationwide to be about 400,000 households. He commended Donna on her summarization of many of the items in the 70D-page bill. He called to the attention of the Committee, on the lost page of the memo from Ms. Spicuzzo, a tax credit for first time home buyers up to 10% of purchase price, which is capped at $7.500, as an incentive to encourage purchasers in this marketplace. Ald. Wallin commented on statistics offered by Interfaith Housing of the North Shore, showing that in 2007 Evanston had 179 filings for foreclosure: in 2005, there were 96, saying it is definitely a problem that we need to address locally as well as notionally. Mr. Marino also noted in the memo, re'rnted to the housing market, Ms. Spicuzza states that the jumbo loan definition has changed. There have been problems with jumbo loans in terms of liquidity issues because the secondary market had dried up. This act states that the maximum cost of a loan in order for it to be considered jumbo is raised from $417.000 to $625.000. It also corrects many of the problems and re -capitalizes Fannie May and Freddie Mac, who are the major entities that service the secondary mortgage market for single family loans in this country. ADJOURNMENT The meeting was adjourned at 8:10 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Bobbie Newman • • • Planning & Development Committee Meeting Minutes of September 8, 2008 Council Chambers — 7:00 p.m. Evanston Civic Center Aldermen Present: A. Hansen, D. Holmes, L. Jean -Baptiste, E. Moran, -A; Rainey; E: Tisdahl, C. Woll in, M. Wynne .. . . ... : •.�t t:•;vi�[tt tlr.•riilf "E:rs-. Staff Present: K. Cox, B. Dunkiey, D. Marino, B. Neii-ma , D,'Spicuzza"t,:"j'"' •'r' Aldermen Absent: S. Bernstein Presiding Official: Alderman Wollin DECLARATION OF OUORUM Chair Wollin called the meeting to order at 7:28 p.m., a quorum being present. APPROVAL OF THE August 8.2008 NIE>E;T1NG MINUTES The Committee voted unanimously 8.0 to approve the August 8, 2009 minutes:''" ' ITEMS FOR CONSIDERATION (Pl) Motion for Anaroval of Subdivision' Plat far the Property Located at 604 Judson Consideration of a request to subdivide a single lot Into two lots for the purpose of constructing two single family dwellings. Recommended for approval by the Preservation Commission and Staff; This item seas withdrawn to be considered at the September 22, 2008 to ntlow the Public NVorls Dept. more time to analyze it, f P2) Ordinance 98-0-08 -- Reauest to Amend the Conditions on a Special Use with Related Maior Variations at 430 AsbtsTv As@nue ("Farmers Best Market") Consideration of a request by Farmer's Best Market, lessee, for relief from certain conditions imposed by Me terms of Ordinances 43-0-99 and 143-0-99 for a Special Use and related major variations for the purpose of operating a drive -through facility at 430 Asbury Avenue in order to allow for the economicalty-contributing renovation of, and operation of a commercial grocery store within the currently-vacastt retail store on the subject property. Staff recommends approval. Aldermen Rainey and Hansen moved approval of the ordinance, The Committee voted 8-0 to approve the motion. Ptar" & Development Commiaee Meeting Minutes Page 2 September 8 2009 (P3) Ordinance 99-0-08 — Special Use for a Convenience Store — 2536 Ewing Avenue Consideration of the Zoning Board of Appeals recommendation for approval of a Special Use for the 7-Eleven Store. See discussion below. Aid. Moran moved that the ordinance be Introduced as drafted. The revised ordinance will be considered for adoption at the September 22, 2008 P&D meeting. The Committee voted unanimously 8-0 to approve the motion. (N) Recommended Denial of a Special Use for a Food Store Establishment to be Allowed to Operate Between Midnieht and 6:00 a.m. at 2536 Exvin¢ Avenue Zoning Board of Appeals and Staff recommends denial of the application to allow this 7-EIeven Store, in a residential neighborhood, to operate from midnight to 6,:00 a.m. See discussion below. Aid. Moran moved that the motion be denied. The Committee voted unanimously 8-0 to deny the motion. A discussion ensued and Aid. Wallin suggested discussing both items P3.and P4 together regarding the 7-Eleven Store: Aid. Wollin called the public to speak: • Mr. Jeff Smith of 2724 Harrison, representing the Central Street Neighbors' Association, stated that their organization favors 7-Eieven having a convenience store at the Ewing location but it is different than most establishments in the neighborhood because it extends into the residential neighborhood by virtue of being on a side street. Therefore 24 hour operation is inappropriate and their organization supports the recommendation of staff and the ZBA to deny 24 hour operation of the 7-Eleven, with additional recommendations regarding lighting and noise, adding that no-one grants loading at 6 a.m, behind their house. He said the business is a ti•aluablc asset to the community and they'd like to keep it, but the)- are trying to strike a balance between the needs of tlic business, the business needs of the neighborhood and the legitimate desires of the residents, owners, and tenants in the neighborhood. Mr. Rick Hulse of 2739 Lincoln Street stated that the 7-Eleven being open from midnight to 6 a.m. and early deliveries are a community issue. Being two blocks back from Central Street he cats feel the impact of all the issues that have been brought up such as noise, the disruptive factor of being open from midnight until 6 a.m. and the early delivery times. He said in his observation you can see it and feel is as far south as Colfax., �%hich is 4 blocks array from Central Street. They had an issue Saturday night, as an example. n�hcn the police were drawn into the community at 10:30 p.m. to handle crowds of young people coming out of the store and migrating down Erring loudly spreading Iittler and noise, before curfew, but it raises the point that they have crowd control, litter, noise and issues before curfew and there is no point in adding that problem to late night hours over night, which is why he and his neighbors object to it. Ms. Betsy Waller 2741 Harrison lives kitty-corner from the 7-Eleven. She mentioned that 40 people came to the Zoning Board of Appeals meeting to voice their concern about the problems the 7-Eleven is causing to the neighborhood. She has lived there for 23 years and there were only Ptarxvng & De.ebpnxr¢ Ccmrrxtree Meeta-g Minutes Page 3 5epternber 8 20.0 • two managers of the White Hen in previous years, who worked pretty well with the neighbors to solve little problems and they hope to do so with the 7-Eleven. She and her neighbors are vehemently opposed to the 7-Eleven operating 24 hours because they have a lot of issues that they need straightened out as it is. Regarding just the Special Use permit to operate, they have 5 problems: 1) She requested that deliveries be limited to during the day (the way White Hen did) because now they are Coming as late as 10:00 p.m., and garbage is being picked up at 5:00 a-m. This is very disruptive. She requested that deliveries and garbage pickup be limited to behveen 7 a.m. and 7 p.m., the same as construction (noise) hours. 2) The delivery trucks idle for 45 minutes, when the legal limit is 5 minutes, which is extremely disruptive. They are the biggest noise factor. She said that the manager of the Jewel on Greenbay has told her that he does not allow the truck drivers making deliveries to let their trucks idle. 3) The lights: When the store was a White Hen Pantry, the lights were turned out late in the evening before they closed and after closing as a courtesy to neighbors. She is requesting that as many outside and inside lights as possible be turned off after closing, except those required for security. She added that she believes the current manager would like to cooperate but he is possibly being constrained by corporate policy. 4) Nis. Waller also asked that 7-Eleven adhere to the litter collection requirement. She also said that young people congregating in front of the store is a problem and that the White Hers manager tool: an active role in discouraging kids from hanging out at the store. 'Ms. Barbara Levin of 2726 Central Street stated that slit lives 300 feet from the 7-Eleven. She added that the new fire facility's doors are being blocked by the delivery trucks and this will be a problem when the fire station is finished. It also prevents residents from using the alley for access. The youngsters are troublesome and boisterous, and they are out sometimes before and sometimes after curfew. They block the way for people walking past. She hopes that a manager could help with disbursing the cro%%d. Ald. Wollin asked whether this is a new problem, or if it was going on when the store was a White Hen. Nis. Levin am-cred that over the years she has seen young people congregating but neighbors have been saying they are more troublesome recently. Aid. Moran said the central sense in the community is that the store serves a useful purpose but there is no support for 24 hour operation. lie said that the request for 24 hour operation is part of company policy and it is incumbent upon the manager within his job responsibilities to pursue the request until the are told it i%ill not be allowed. lie recommended the following conditions be incorporated into the ordinance: 1) Deliveries are limited to bemcen 6 a.m. and 9 p.m. 2) Strict compliance with the Cit.•'s anti -idling (5 minute limit) ordinance is to be enforced 3) The brightest of the external lights will be turned off at 9:00 p.m.; lower brightness lights .will be allo-.%ed to stay on until closing 4) Minimize interior lighting after closing to that which is required for security, after closing 5) Store managers and operators must work to minimize the impact of people congregating in front of the store • Aid. Wynne su-gested that regarding the idling issue, a sign should be posted on the building stating that idling is not allowed for more than 5 minutes. She reminded Aid. Moran to address the garbage pick-up hours in the list of conditions. Plam ing b Devebpn t Coffmttee Meewg Mnues September 8 2008 Page 4 • Ald.,Moran changed the conditions of the deliveries and garbage pickup to be between" 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. :: . Aid.. Holmes suggested that the problem of youth loitering be discussed by members of the community, towhich Aid. Moran replied that it is hard to identify where the youth come from. .They came from outside the neighborhood as well as within it. Aid. Jean -Baptiste suggested a "No Loitering" sign be posted on the building and the police be called to enforce, adding that the store managers are not equipped to enforce the law outside of the store. Aid. Rainey suggested that they have the Youth Advocate Team stop there at times and see if they can engage the youth in a conversation. She said in her ward they established 7a.m. to 7p.m. operation for a convenience store in a gas station because after a certain hour it became a gathering place and there were 30 to 50 calls to the police a month. Zoning officials saw that they were operating after their designated hours. She asked that a staff member explain how they plan to enforce the regulations. Mr. Bill Dunkley, Zoning Administrator, responded to Aid. Rainey, saying that when they get a report of a violation of a zoning ordinance, a notice is sent to the manager or owner of the store, citing what the exact violation is, a remedy and the amount of time they have to comply. The Zoning Division personnel follow up to see whether they are complying. if they are not complying they are fined. Fines can go up to $1,000 a day, which is rate. They are working in conjunction with the property Standards Department to enforce the regulations. The ultimate penalty is to revoke their certificate of zoning compliance, which means they can no longer occupy the property. Aid. Rainey said that the convenience store in her ward is still operating even though all this was done. Aid. Tisdahl asked whether we have ever revoked a business's zoning certificate. Mr. Dunk.ley replied that he does not know. Mr. Marino said the threat of revoking has had effect in some cases. Aid. Hansen said if we keep fining and it does no good, why do we keep doing it? Mr. Dunkley replied that once expiration has passed, there are -ways to prolong the expiration date but they will try to prosecute -with as much speed as possible. Aid. Wallin called up the two representatives of the 7-Eleven. Mr. Greg Kuczaj, Field Consultant and Air. rianish Patel, 1=ranchicce, how they would like to address the problems. Mr. Kuczai stated that lie and Mr. Patel discussed the problem of congregating of kids before the meeting. He is not there in the evening so he has not witnessed the problem of the youth congregating, but inside the store is an issue for them and they have added cameras and surveillance equipment inside and outside of the store to protect themselves and in case there was a problem. It is in their best interest to not have kids loitering inside and outside the store. Regarding the deliveries, he said that most of the purveyors came in the evening and that lie understands that the trash pickup is happening at about 7 a.m. He will ask the garbage pickup to be between 7 and 8 a.m. Mr. Patel said the trash is picked up at 8:30 a.m. Mr. Patel said the lights are currently turned off at midnight, when the store closes_ The lights are on the pole sign at Ewing and Central, on top of 9wrurg S DQvebpment CmYrYnee 1M-__-tM R4rues Page S Sepc_rr D 8 2W8 the awning and under the soffit. Aid. Moran asked that they turn off the lights above the awning and at Central Street at 9 p.m. Aid. Wollin suggested they leave the one on Central Street on until They close and leave the one above the store until 9 p.m. Mr. Kuczaj replied that it is not his decision to make but he %01 recommend it to the appropriate people. Mr. Patel said that he has not had to call die police. When the youth are in the parking lot and he tells them they must leave within 5 minutes, they do. Mr. Kuczaj said they are trying to get more of a police presence in the store. Ms. Mitchell of 2740 Harrison said that her husband has talked to the youth. She said there are Seagrams bottles found on the ground and that some of them were skitching on cars last Saturday night! The Friday before, the kids were hanging on to cars also. Some are old enough to drive. Aid. Wollin said that the fine for underaged drinking is $500. She added that the item is only for discussion tonight and it can be voted upon with the conditions to be put in the revised ordinance at the next meeting. Aid. Jean -Baptiste said there must be "No Loitering" signs as well as "No Idling" signs posted and the police must be called when the youth do not abide by the laws. Aid. Moran summarized the conditions: 1) All deliveries and garbage pickups are to be between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. 2) Brighter external lights will be turned off at 9 p.m. S 3) All lights are turned off at the close of business each day except those.requirad for security purposes {, 4) Strict compliance required of anti -idling ordinance and a sign will be posted 5) Management and operators will work with neighbors and police to minimize the impact of the youth gathering in the store area 6) A "No Loitering" sign will be posted 7) Delivery trucks are prohibited from blocking fire trucks' and other emergency vehicles' access to the alley ITEM FOR DISCUSSION (PDi) Report of City of Evanston Downnavment Assistance Program Ms. Donna Spicuzza, the Housing Planner, summarized the report that %ems enclosed in the packet. The program has been in operation for 4 months and has been well received. The process has been developed to get more banks to participate. They have made 5 loans so far. They are working on getting the word out and continuing to promote the program. The Downpayment :assistance Program provides grants for downpayment or closing cost assistance to first time homebuyers who want to buy a house in Evanston. It uses funds from the Federal Home Program and from the local Affordable Housing Fund. The grants can be up to 530.000. They can go up to 520,000 if a person's income is between SM10 and 100% of median, which would be S75,000 for a household of 4. People under 90% of median, which is 560,300 for a household of 4, can get a grant of up to 525,000. The grants are forgiven over 5 to 10 years, depending on the amount. Up to S15,000, the grants are forgiven over 5 years. If the homeowner M Planning 6 Devetpment Comrnnee Meew g M ntAes Page b September B 2003 remains an owner occupant and does not sell theproperty, the loan is completely forgiven after 5 P P Y rg years. Grants of over S 15,000 are forgiven over 10 years. The report shows the four lenders that are currently participating. The most recent' is Harris Bank, which signed up in August. National City Bank signed up in July. t" Ban k & Trust of Evanston and Evanston Housing Corporation signed up in May. t" Bank and Trust and the Evanston Housing Corporation have made loans so far. 27 people representing S530,000 in grants, have submitted eligibility forms where they state their income and provide information about their interest in a home and how much they have for a downpayment. S350,000 was committed for a minimum of 12 grants. Two more reservations have come in. Most are for condo units. Some applicants are interested in purchasing single family foreclosures that are being sold on the open market through reactors, which represent some good opportunities, but also new problems: They may be damaged from water and electricity having been turned off, or they may have lead based paint, so it will take more care on their part to make sure they and the purchaser are aware aware of the condition of the property and what it would take to make it habitable. Some of the lenders have the possibility of providing purchase rehab loans. They might be able to combine rehab funds from the City's reliab program. Thee are trying to get it more stabilized. They have been addressing it case by case. Aid. Wollin asked whether the new federal money we may get can be used for this program, to which Ms. Spicuzza replied that the federal money has a number of components. Regarding rehabilitating foreclosed property there are limitations but it is possible, since one is that the property must be acquired for less than market value. They will be investigating this possibility. Aid. Wollin commended the program. She said it looks as though the remaining money will probably be committed by the end of the first year of operation. his. Spicuzza replied that it is possible, or maybe before. Sha will report back to the Committee if there are any adjustments that they recommend based on their experience. She added that people are able to access the information and they like the program, and she believes it will get a lot of use. AWOUR11<SE\T The meeting was adjourned at 8:20 p.m. Respectfully submitted, 4. Bobbie Newman 0 Aldermen Present: Staff Present: Presiding Official: Planning & Development Committee Rseeting Minutes of September 22.2008 Council Chambers 7:00 p.m. E-vanston Civic Center S. Bernstein. A. [Jansen, D. Holmes. L. Jean -Baptiste, E. Moran, A. Raincy, E. Tisdahl. C. Wollin, NI. Wynne J. Chambers, K. Cox, B. Dunkley, D. Marino. J. Murphy, B. Newman, A. Stuart Alderman Wollin ,1; ' -i, . 3 ,:! 1 DECLARATION OF OUORUI►i Chair Wollin called the meeting to order at 7:55 p.m., a quorum being present. APPROVAL OF TIIF SF.PTFNIBER S. 2008 MEETING MINUTES V The Committee voted unanimously, 8-0 to approve the September 8, 2008 minutes. ITEMS FOR CONSIDERATION . (PI) Ordinance 101-0-08 — 1%lndifications to Snecinl Sian District for Uncle Dan's retail slore at 9111 Church Street Consideration of the recommendation by the Sign Review and Appeals Board to approve modifications to the Special Sign District for Uncle Dan's at 901 Church Street. Stan' recottttncnds approval and requests suspension of rules for introduction and action at Council. Aid. Moran noted that there %vas a discussion about advertising on the east wall of Uncle Dan's at which it was decided that it would not be allowed. He said se%oral businesses wanted to advertise there and ifthey permitted them all. it would become a massive variegated billboard. He added that he appreciates the long term contribution Uncle Dan's has made to the community but expressed concern o,.cr the number of businesses %%ho %wanted to advertise on the cast will of the Uncle Dan's site. and the problem of the City's response to future requests. Aid. W%,nne ackno%%Iedgcd Aid. loran's concerns but said she believes this is acceptable and appropriate and that they «ill have jurisdiction in the future, at which time they can say no. Chair Wollin noted that this is the onk- buildine that needs an cast facing sign. She added that in the mam- discussions about this %%all, a conclusion was never drawn about rchether to put art there, etc.. Ald. Moran replied that the outcome of the discussions was to leave the wall blank. Aid. Bernstein aereed with this. Chair Wollin pointed out that the sign is at street Icvcl. Aid. Bernstein agrecd that the decision made at the discussions 4sas precluding the panoramic view, not the street Ic�c1. Aid. Moran concluded that the community has done a good job of approaching commercial . signagc prudently and he doesn't .want it to get out of hand in the future The Committee voted by majority 7-1 with Aid. Moran opposed, to approve the ordinance. P;�n.ng F. 13C.re oprne Corr.-r rret, Neer r-y '.rPu. ''S ''age 7 $ec:embct 22. 2008 (P2) Molinn to Annrove Plat or -Subdivision or604 Judson Property owner requests a subdivision plat approval to subdivide the single lot at 604 Judson Street into two lots, for the purpose of constructing two single family detached dwellings. Tice two lots would be in compliance. Staff and the Preservation Commission recommend approval. Chair Wollin commended the architects on behalf of the Preservation Commission for varying the architecture of the two proposed buildings. The Committee voted unanimously, S-0 to approve the motion. (P3) Sidewalk Cafe for Tvne 1 restaurant -- 1512 Sherman Avenue Consideration of the Site Plan and Appearance Review Committee recommendation for approval of the sidewalk chic request from "Jamaica Jamaica" restaurant. Chair Wollin asked that the owner be sure to keep the sidewalk cafe within its boundaries. lie agreed to do so. The Committee voted unanimously, 84 to approve the motion. (P4) Ordinance 99-0-08 — Snecial Use for Convenience Store — 2536 Ewing Avenue Discussion of conditions requested during the September 8th Planning, and. Development Committee Meeting. Chair Wollin called Mr. Tom Romancllo, Operations Manager of 94 7-Elc►•cn stores in the Chicago area, to speak. Mr. Rornancllo requested a meeting ►,.ith the Central Street Business District Association to discuss the conditions of the Ordinance. He said that lie had not heard of the controversy until after the list P&D meeting, and that he had overseen the White liens for 25 years prior to 7- Eleven buying out White Hen, and that the►- hadn't had a problem in the neighborhood before this. He asked for a clear definition of the lighting requirements. He agrees to abide by all the other requirements in the Ordinance. Mr. Dunkley, Zoning Administrator. said that he went to the site and agreed that there needs to be further discussion because the etectricit% is on the same circuit as Blockbuster so Blockbuster will be affected, there ►►ill tie no identifying signage after 9:00 p.m. if the sign on Central Street as well as above the store is turned off, and the fluorescent lights under the cave across the front of the building are necessary for security cameras. tic suggested a continuance of the case while he arranges for a direct. primary contact from 7-Eleven and a discussion to clarify the details of the lighting requirements. Aid_ Moran asked for the clarification of the conditions in writing by 7-Eleven to twe presented at the next P&D meeting. Mr. Cox noted that this item was intre.:uced at Council and can only be held for one meeting. The ordinance will have to be ►withdra►►n or tabled if it is not voted upon at the next meeting. • Chair Wollin thanked Mr. Romanello for coming to the meeting. • The Committee voted 8-0 to hold the item in Committee until the October 13, 2008 meeting. PlorifI no & Ux-vOnnfnert c-r-n nee Meci g min�,tes Page 3 20 COiNIh11.INICATIONS (PD1) Memorandum Rea.. n Annraisal Practices of the Citv's Housing Programs Aid. Rainey explained that the request for appraisal practices came about from the fact that numerous appraisals charges appeared on a recent bills list. She also asked whether the appraisal charges wcre folded into the loans_ Mr. Jeff Murphy, Assistant Director for Property Standards, stated that all of the fees for the loans, including appraisal charges are currently being paid by CDBG funds, but that he is considering changing this trend. The appraisal done by the first lien holder is often 10 to IS years old and it is very important to get a current, accurate appraisal of the property. If we are in Yd position, it cannot exceed 80* o of the appraised value; if we are in 2" 1 position, it cannot exceed 95%. The appraised value plus other criteria determine whether the loan will be dispersed. Aid. Jean -Baptiste asked the interest rate, to ►►hick Mr. Murphy replied, it is 0%. Aid, Rainey suggested that the CDBG Committee should make a recommendation to City Council to roll the appraisal fee into the loan rather than have it funded by CDBG funds. The Committee agreed. (PD3) Do►rntn►►'n Plan Undate Chair Wollin explained that the September Plan Commission meeting was cancelled and the next . Plan Commission meeting is on October 15'�, 2008. The next P&D meeting after that is on October 27, 2008. Mr. James Woods, Chair of the Plan Commission, stated that he will present a draft memo reflecting the changes that have been made since the review of the Downtown Plan began, and assured the P&D Committee that the Plan Commission will vote on the Downtown Plan at the October I S's, 2008 Plan Commission meeting. Chair Wallin pointed out that three big issues have been on the Plan Commission's agenda for over a year: the Downto,%-n Plan, the Chicago Avenue Plan and the West Side Plan, and urged the Plan Commission to mtv�e forward, Mr. Woods assured the Committee that the Plan Commission is ready to move forward on the Downtown and West Side Plans. Chair Wollin thanked Mr. Woods for coming to the meeting. ADJOURNMENT The meeting was adjourned at 8:35 p.m. Respectfully submitted, 0 Bobbie Newman Planning & Development Committee Meeting Minutes of October 13, 2008 Council Chambers — 7:00 p.m. Evanston Civic Center Aldermen Present: S. Bernstein, A. Hansen, D. Holmes, L. Jean -Baptiste, E. Moran, A. Rainey, E. Tisdahl, C. Wollin, M. Wynne ; Staff Present: J. Chambers, K. Dunkley, D. Marina, B. Newman'! Presiding Official: Alderman Wollin DECLARATION OF OUORUM Chair Wollin called the meeting to order at 7:24 p.m„ a quorum being present. ; APPROVAL OF THE SEPTEMBER 8.2008 MEETING MINUTES The Committee voted unanimously, 8-0 to approve the September 22, 2008 minutes. Ile ITEMS FOR CONSIDERATION • fP11 Recommended Allocation of CHDO Operation Funds � • ; : „ The Housing Commission recommends that S81,830 in HOME- funds. available 'tor operating grants to Community Housing Development Organizations (CHDOs) be awarded to Evanston's rive CHDOs in the amount of S16,366.00 each. Ald. Jean -Baptiste asked Housing Planner Ms. Donna Spicuzza to explain the role of CHDO organizations in the HOME program. Nis. Spicuzza stated that HOME funds are annually allocated federal funds, 15% of which is to be used by Community Housing Development Organizations for the construction or rehabilitation of rental or ownership residences. Referring to the summary information provided, Nis. Spicuzza noted that CHDOs have completed 16-20 rental projects with over 100 rental units, and have completed about 50 ownership units over the years. She said that part of the HOME allocation can be used to pay for the City's administration of the program, and up to 5% can be used to pay CHDO operating costs. Since 2004, the City has divided operating grants equally among the existing CHDOs. Because HOME funds must be committed within 2 years and disbursed %vithin 5 years of their allocation from HUD, she estimated that about S12,000 of the funds reserved for CHDO operating grants must be used within a year. Ald. Rainey asked whether the CHDO organizations were represented at the meeting and if so, how they are progressing on sales of recently funded projects. Mr. Keith Banks, Executive Director of Evanston Community Development Association (ECDA) and Nis. Betty Ester of Citizens' Lighthouse Community Land Trust addressed the Committee. Mr. Banks of ECDA explained that 3 of the 6 condo units of their current project are sold and they are marketing aggressively on Craig's List, an internet email list serve, posting information at local employers such as schools and hospitals, and have run a full page ad in the Evanston Sentinel for the past 3 months to find buyers who live and/or work in Evanston. The condos are Planning & DevetoDr�t Comm::ee Meeting Minutes October 13. 20O8 Page 2 priced at 5165,000 for 3 bedroom, 2 bath units. Realtor Eric Beauchamp, a member of the Housing Commission, has recently listed them on the Multiple Listing Service, at no charge. Many prospective buyers are looking for mortgages. ECDA has worked with Harris and Marquette Bank, who financed prior sales. Aid. Rainey asked how the company is handling the vacancies, financially. Mr. Banks replied that their budget is exhausted and they have to renew their construction loan every 6 months. Through fund-raising they have acquired $6,000 and arc trying to raise the funds for their October mortgage. The faith based network is considering giving them grants. They have not received tax bills for the 3 vacant condos yet, which he expects to be approximately $3,000 per unit. Aid. Rainey asked whether he would use these administrative funds for taxes. Mr. Banks replied that he would if need be. She asked about how he spends his time and what expenses the organization has. Aldermen Rainey, Bernstein and lean -Baptiste requested access to the budgets of the CHDOs which have been provided to Staff. Nis. Spicuzza will provide them. The Committee discussed the rent -with -option -to -buy alternative, suggested by Aid. Jean - Baptiste. Mr. Banks and Ms. Spicuzza will investigate the possibility of this option. The Committee discussed marketing the units to buyers outside of Evanston. Mr. Banks stressed that although they have opened their marketing to Chicago, they give preference to Evanston workers/residents. Their goal is to sell the units. Aid. Moran pointed out that many residents of other communities desire to live in Evanston and we should not exclude them entirely from the program. He said the City should support the CHDOs and have confidence in them, and that much larger organizations are struggling in this economic climate. 13c recommended approving the funding, as they arc the closest point of contact with prospectivc Evanston buyers, adding that it is a minimum amount of money and that it should not be withheld. Aid. lean -Baptiste agreed that the CHDOs need the funds to continue their marketing and administrative endeavors. Aid. Bernstein maintained that he would like to sae the funds used to help prospective buyers obtain their down payments. Mr. Banks argued that this 5% of the funding is for CHDO operating expenses. Aid. Bernstein asked whether that usage is mandatory, to which Ms. Spicuzza replied that it is not, but it has been committed by the City for that purpose. Aid. Bernstein argued that it may not be the best use of it_ Ms. Betty Ester of the Citizens' Lighthouse Community Land Trust stated that her CHDO has a prospective buyer and 2 other interested parties who were referred through homeownership counseling from the Housing Opportunity Development Corporation or CEDA/Neighbors at Work. The Housing Commission will discuss the concerns raised at their October 16's meeting. The Committee voted by majority to hold the issue in Committee until the next meeting. (A2) Additional Condo Workchov in 2008 Request approval of S1,000 to Lakeside Community Development Corporation to present a third condominium workshop in November to accommodate 60 people from the waiting list. The Committee voted unanirnously, 8-0 to approve the motion. Ptrimr,g & Devebpment Co rnttee Meeting Minutes Page 3 October 13. 2`CW (P31 Ordinance 99-0-08 — Special Use for Convenience Store — 2536 Ewing Avenue Consideration of an application for a Special Use for the property at 2536 Ewing Avenue for a convenience store (7-Eleven, formerly White Hen Pantry). Aid. Moran stated that the Ordinance stipulates: business hours of 6 a.m. to midnight; litter collection in a 250 foot radius of the store to be checked upon every 3 hours; deliveries between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m.; no blockage of alley access for other properties and the Fire Department; strict compliance with the anti -idling law of a maximum of 5 minutes of truck idling; removal of the square illuminated sign above the store (the red and green sign may remain)-, window shades or tinted film applied to hide the interior lights from 9 p.m. to midnight; lights along the length of the facade will have shades to direct the light downward; no exterior and no pole lights lit between midnight and 6 a.m. except those necessary for security; the management will discourage loitering; and signs regarding the no -idling and no loitering laws will be posted. Mr. Tom Romancilo of 7-Elcven thanked the Committee for the opportunity to make the necessary changes adding that one of the signs has already been removed, there are temporary tinted shades on the windows until the shades that have been ordered arc delivered, and there are shields on order for the fagade lights, half of which have been removed. He asked for 30 days to complete the required work. Mr. Greg Kuczaj of 7-Elcvcn stated that he is working with the managers to make sure the trucks comply with the no -idle law. Mr. Greg Kuczaj will be the contact person for neighbors or the • City to call and will provide a 24 hour contact number as requested by the Committee. Ms. Betsy Waller who lives across the street from the 7-Eleven asked on behalf of herself and her neighbors that ail the lights are turned off %%hcn the store is closed and that the 7-Elcvcn comply with all the regulations. She said this process started in November of 2007 and except for the lighting issue all of the other issues are already laws and asked why they have not been enforced. She said deliveries are still being made after 7 p.m., as late as 9:15 p.m. She believes there may be a communication/language problem with the manager. Ms. Chery) Berg, a neighbor, stated that she appreciates the availability of a 24 hour contact since she has had a problem communicating with the manager about the profusion of litter she had to walk through to get to the store. She asked how the stipulations are being communicated to the manager since he had no idea he was responsible for keeping the area clean. Aid. Moran alerted the 7-Eleven personnel present that there has been no demonstration of compliance during this ordinance process. The Committee urged the 7-Elcvcn personnel to comply with the laws and the ordinance, warning that they will be monitored and the ordinance strictly enforced. The business is subject to a S2501day fine and revocation of their special use permit if not compliant. Aid. Moran wished the 7-Eleven well and advised them to cooperate in order to make their business successful. The Committee voted unanimously, 8-0 to approve the motion. ITENIS FOR DISCUSSION (P1511 Discussion of Foreclosure Issues Ph3thnir►q & Devetpment Comrrnree Me'e +ng h'rxAes Page 4 October r 3, 2008 The Committee discussed the data in the memo distributed in the meeting packet. Mr. Marino noted that there is a 90% increase in foreclosures in Evanston since last year with a map showing • the locations of all the foreclosed properties in Evanston. Be said that Evanston will be pursuing its share of the Housing and Economic Recovery Act funds through both Cook County and the State of Illinois. Mr. Marino also alerted the Committee to the Hope for Homeowners program, expected to help 400,000 homeowners nationwide. Since Bank of America acquired Countrywide Bank, they arc going to re -finance a number of loans that have been deemed predatory. Ms. Spicuzza will obtain information on the procedure for applying for the available funds from the County or State of Illinois as soon as it is available. Aid. Wollin, who is on the Foreclosure Task Force with Aid. Holmes, added that Ms. Spicuzza has distributed doorknob hangers in strategic areas of Evanston and has put much effort into informing the public about programs and counseling opportunities. Aid. lean -Baptiste suggested contacting owners of properties in foreclosure or at risk directly, if possible, to which Ms. Spicuzza responded that it is possible, through the Illinois Housing Authority. Mr. Marino added that we would do so in concert with other agencies. Aid. lean -Baptiste suggested that the Aldermen of the at -risk wards get involved, as foreclosures de -stabilize neighborhoods and communities, The Committee agreed that the foreclosure situation should be updated and discussed every two weeks at the P&D meeting. The Health and Human Services Department will be presenting a foreclosure seminar on November Sth at the Civic Center from 5:30 — 7:30p.m. ADJOURNMENT . - - ., - -' .. .. .. ,.. � i _, -.,ir•'i" e�l'•` Ali' �!�• The meeting was adjourned at 8:35 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Bobbie Newman - s ij•` l i t Planning & Development Committee Meeting Alinutes of October 27, 2008 Council Chambers — 7:00 p.m. Evanston Civic Center Aldermen Present: '...S. Bernstein, A. Hansen, D. Holmes, L. Jean -Baptiste, E. Moran, A. Rainey, E. Tisdahl, C. Wollin, M. Wynne Staff Present:-' ;, . K. Cox, J. Chambers, A. Dean, D. Marino. B. Newman, D. Spicuzza Presiding Official: Alderman Wollin DECLARATION OFOUORUAI rf to=: „;:,.._i, .: ►,:;r; Chair Wollin called the meeting to order at 7:34 p.m., a quorum being present. APPROVAL OF THE October 13, 2009 MEETING MINUTES The Committee voted unanimously, 8-0 to approve the October 13, 2008 minutes. ITFNIS FOR CONSIDERATION (PI) Consideration of a Renuest for an Additional 2-Year Extension for the 1700-1722 Central Street Approved Planned Development Consideration of a request for an additional 2-year time extension for the 1700-1722 Central Street Planned Development (Ordinance 7-0-07), which currently expires April 5, 2009. Ald. Rainey moved to approve the extension. Chair Wollin called Mr. Robert Horne, co -developer with Mr. Jack Crocker of the "Eastwood of Evanston" project at 1700-1722 Central Street, to speak. Mr. Horne stated that they arc requesting a two year extension to the planned development approval through April of 2009, based on ho►v poor market conditions are for residential real estate. He added that the project is a 51-unit condo project with retail on the ground floor. He said they continue to be committed to the project and that they have structured the project with a very patient and smart approach to the capitalization but they just cannot make it work and need additional time to weather out the market. Air, Jim Hughes of 2518 Hartzell asked why they Are asking for an extension at this time since the approval is for April of 2009 and ►►c may know more about the market at that date. Mr. Crocker responded that they need pre -sales for this project and that the market is currently dead for their type of project: they have not been able to get the pre -sales they require, saying that these conditions are unprecedented. He said they have been tracking sales in the S450,000 - $800,000 range from June through September of 2008 on the Multiple Listing Service, and only 7 units have sold, which is remarkably to►►•. indicating that this market has virtually stalled. Air. Crocker explained further that it will take some time for this market to heal because many of the condos ID on the market currently are being converted to rentals until the market picks up again (the projects on Kedzie and the Greenbay and Emerson) and they will all have to be sold off before the new Plarnng & tJetip3opment Commnee IJeetng 4t ntres Page 2 Octo- 27, ZCCS construction will be sold. He added that they have every incentive to more the project along as fast as possible. He said the}, have patient equity capital and a very modest loan but there arc real estate taxes, interest on their loan and interest that their patient equity capital is expecting, all of which grow with time. He said if they could start it tomorrow they would, but they feel to be safe they need a 2 year extension. For themselves, they need to know that the project remains in play for that time to ensure that the effort and additional expenditure is justified and that certainly the bank lender wants to know that the project they are financing is able to be built or they are not going to extend the loan. He said the loan they need and their equity capital depend oil the extension of the planned development, and as the sponsors, they know it will take that long to get it going. Mr. Hughes asked whether they would be changing the units to rental units and the retail space to office space. Chair Woliin advised him that the dcvcloper must proceed with the approved planned development as it was originally planned. Mr. Crocker also said that they did not plan to change the project. Mr. Hughes pointed out that if the building is nc�i built until 2011, 4 years after the Central Street plan was approved, the City will be missing out on property taxes in the meantime and asked that the City consider this when they are considering %whether to approve the extension. Mr. Crocker responded that he appreciates Mr. Hughes' concem over the taxes and does not believe anyone could have foreseen the current market conditions. lie said the project has proceeded to die point where the derelict movie theater buildings ha►•e been removed and the site has been cleared, graded and seeded and the construction fence is down, adding that the entire neighborhood is better off with that building down and a temporary piece of open space. He repeated that he would love to get the building going and imprc%c the neighborhood, as was his original plan. lie added that regarding permit fees and rezl estate iaxcs, granting the extension is the fastest way to realize those because in this market, nobody else is going to do anything. Mr. Joe Hill, who lives on Broadway in the 7" Ward, stated that he is dismayed at the lack of notification that this building was coming up for some other action, since the City has already granted this building an extension. lie said he thinks it should be denied. He asked how long we can have a vacant piece of property, and asked what it does to Evanston's tax revenue. He said he does not believe the City can afford to care developers until they get back on their feet and asked that the City require that the project begin by the original extension date: failing that, that they have 6 months to sell: failing that, the City should take it over and leave it as the green space it is. Mr. Jeff Smith of 2724 Harrison, stated that the neighbors and residents share the pain of the developers and they would love to see it built and full%• occupied. He said his concern is that the City, in this case, has made decisions in the midst of a real estate bubble. He stated that these conditions are not unprecedented as history has shown that similar conditions existed in Germany in the 1930s and in the post war housing marker in this country. He explained that the problems are not only with the mortgages, but that the supply is greater than the demand: vacant houses and lots are caused by people holding on to values that nc longer hold. lie said an economist would say to the comment that nothing can be built un3er these conditions, is that if you built something at a Iotiwer price, it would sell. He suggested sskine for more detail as to when the developer believes the market will come back. He said he doesn't believe the peak years will return; he does believe Evanston's market will come back: but at some point but ire would be willing to support some change in the nature of the project in respect to the number of units, price of units, etc. that makes sense for the developers and that would cause this project to begin faster, adding that it is still being carried on the tax roles as a one story building and will soon ben vacant Iot.. Ptarvai•xg & C--.ciopment Corr muee Meetrig Minutes Page 3 Ocrcce, 27. 2L-08 . Aid. Rainey informed Mr. Smith that we have 19 units of affordable housing in the range of 5100.000 a unit that have been sitting for almost 2 years now and his suggestion of lowering the price mill not help the situation. Ms. Mary Rosinski of 1729 C!tancellor stated that she agrees with the other neighbors. She said that regarding Aid. Rainey's comment on Reba Place, they are not offering much of an incentive to reahors, which is necessary sometimes. She believes they would have sold, given the right price_ She said that in another 2 or 3 years the developer of this project may ask for another extension. She asked the Committee to consider the prices of these units based on what is out there_ before making their decision. John Zbesko of 1129 Noyes Street, stated that he is opposed to this extension of the planned development. He said economic conditions have changed, as acknowledged by all sides and what may have been the best use of this property is no longer the case, as evidenced by the fact that the building has not started in spite of the current extension. He said that by granting a further extemsion, the City risks delaying development for another 2 years and foregoing any increase in property v-alue and taxes that could occur if an alternative development plan were proposed. By refusing this extension, he presumes the developers will be more motivated to consider alterratives to their original plan, hopefully resulting in new development before 2 years, though there is no guarantee that even if the extension is made, we will see a condo building in 2 years. Ms. Mary Therese Staub of 2627 Broadway, asked what the procedure is for an extension to a planned development. She and her neighbors did not think any further action would be taken by the C"rty on this project until closer to April. She asked whether the neighbors were supposed to be notified about this meeting as part of the procedure. Mr. Marino responded that there is not a requirement for neighbor notification related to an extension of a planned development, adding that Rbat is required is what had been done: posting of the agenda of the Planning and Develktipment Committee. Aid. Tisdahl agreed that in 2 years the project may be back for another extension and said that does worry her. She said she supports an extension of 2 years but she warned the developers that she days not think it will be granted again after that. She said they may need an alternative plan that will work at that time. She said that if the Committee denies the extension at this point, it will remain vacant and the City does not have enough money to take it over. She concluded that she ct--nccts the developers to come back in 2 years with an alternative plan. Aid. Rainey said a sure way to get the property off the tar rolls is for the City to buy it and that it makes no sense and just because there's no improvement on the property, it doesn't mean it is off the tax roles. She is sure they are paying some property tax. She said the public has a right to purch`se real estate and if they want to keep it vacant forever that is their business but the motivition of developers is profit so she is sure they don't want to delay this project any more than 2 more wears. She said believes Mr. Croaker wants to build on it as soon as they possibly can, as anyone who owns a piece of property «ould. Aid. Tisdahl agreed with Aid. Rainey but said it may not be possible to make a profit in 2 years' time amd that she will hope to see a viable plan in 2 years. Aid. R.t:inev clarified to Ms. Rosinski that she was not only talking about the Reba building when she referred to affordable housing vacancies. She said she has 3 vacant buildings plus a vacant house that she knows about in her ward and that the developers are asking the City for help in carrying those vacancies. Ptann=rq 6 Deve<PI-R_r-t Committee Meetrig Mitlaes Page 4 October 27. 2008 Chair Wollin agreed that there are vacancies in all wands and that the City does not want to own property. 0 Aid. Bernstein said he does not have difficulty with an extension. He said the market will decide the outcome and that is the risk the developer takes. He said he does not believe we can determine with certainty when the market will turn around and that he has vacant property in his ward also. He said he is also concerned about the 2 year length of the extension. He requested that the developer report back to the Committee in a year and commented that this is the strangest market he's ever seen however he also saw the biggest boom in Evanston's construction. He added that he would consider an 18 month extension. He agreed that it is in Mr. Crocker's and Mr. Home's best interest to gel the project going. Aid_ Rainey responded that an alternative to the 18 month extension is Aid. Tisdahl's suggestion of finality on the 2 year extension. Aid. Bernstein pointed out that there will be a subsequent Committee who could make a different ruling at that point. Mr. Crocker argued that no one can be sure when this market will turn but when it has come down as far as it has, it has a good deal of improvement to maize to get back to where it can begin to justify new construction and units priced based on new construction. He explained why their equity providers and their lender are urging a 2 year extension saying that it does have a lot to do with when the supply and demand will balance and that putting much of the existing supply into a rental pool for a year is not solving those developers' problems, it is allowing them to carry the project with a little less pain until that better day arrives. He explained further that those units that were originally developed for sale, temporarily rented, %ill again be units for sale and that is part of the supply that has got to be brought into balance, and that it will take about 2 years for all those units to clear out. He said he believes that the unique characteristics of Evanston: the diversity, the infrastructure, particularly the public trar►specution and the school system, will cause the market in this community to come back, especially this project which is between 2 tremendous transportation services, but it is going to take tirre and that that is the advice they are getting from their equity providers and their lenders. He said they must be able to go hack to their lenders and tell them they have reasonable time for the supply to work itself back into balance. Aid. Moran argued that under the circumstances, the request for 2 years is a very rational and defensible one and that no one can figure out when this econo-my is going to turn around. He said agrccs that Evanston will rebound some day but his perceptic-n of what is going to happen would be well beyond a year. He agreed that there is going to have to be a stabilization of the market, that it isn't clear when that is going to happen and that nothing will happen before that. He said he believes it is soing to be at least 2 gars. He said he understands the impulse to reduce it to a year but a year won't make a difference. Aid. Jean -Baptiste said he agrees that a 2 year extension seeress reasonable. He said lie is not able to see the negatives of granting a 2 %car extension under unent conditions unless members of the community• arc saying that the lot needs to be improved, so he said the City should make sure that it is properly landscaped, etc. because forcing a sale and de'bating about a brand new project in detail is not reasonable at this point. He said we have to be careful about the many projects we have outstanding because this is the reality for almost all of [room and that developers will ask for extensions. He said sve can help manage the situation so tha- these lots do not negatively impact the surrounding properties. He said he understands peoples' anxiety about trying to get something done there and elsewhere but the reality is that %e are stuck right now and we have to recognize it and try to work with what we've got. Powing b De e_;coment Commree Werng r t.nutes Page 5 October 27. 2008 Ald. Bernstein said he has been persuaded and he will have to adopt a new reality. He asked Mr. Crocker what their plan is if they cannot sell the units in 2 years. Mr. Crocker msponded.that he believes this is a great project in a great location in a great city and he wants to be part of it. He said that if they wmke up in a year and a half in a new reality entirely, they will be flexible in their ideas and see % at makes sense for the community and for themselves, but he said he believes that in this community, in that location with the infrastructure that supports it, it is precisely the kind of development that will be the first to get going when the market returns. He said we don't need more sprawl in corn fields; what we need is quality developments in special communities like this that are weil served with public transportation. He said they are committed and they are going to push hard to see this project through, but they are practical and will open their eyes when the market comes back to revisit their plans, if need be. He said he will be happy to come back in a year or any time and give a formal report on where it stands. The Committee voted unanimously to pans the motion for an extension of the planned development. W21 Recommend Allocation of HOME CHUG Onerstine Funds The Housing Commission and staff recommend that S81,830 in HOME funds reserved for operating grants to Community Housing Development Organirations (CIIDOs) be awarded to Evanston's five CIIDOs on an equal basis. Ms. Carol Balkom of 2811 Harrison Street, also a member of the Evanston Housing Commission, urged the Committee to support the recommendation for distribution of the HOME funds in equal amounts. Sloe said the Housing Commission went through much thought and discussion about this and they realized that the CHDOs that are asking for this money spend a lot of money that is not necessanh• reflected in the budgets and expenses that were distributed. She said there are many things on balance sheets, and there is money contributed by Board members that is not visible and it is on that basis and on the basis of some other things that they decided on equal distribution. Ms. Susan Munro of !316 Maple Avenue and Chair of the Evanston Housing Commission pointed out that Evanston does not have a Housing Authority so we depend on the CHDOs develop affordable housing. She said that for the $81,000 of HOME funds that is designated for this purpose, we are getting a fair amount of service and benefit to the community. She said the Housing Ccr-mission looked at the budgets of the CHDOs and that they are running very tight operations. She said they do not have a lot of staff, which is one of the reasons it is hard for them to carry their current projects. She acknowledged that the Committee itas concerns about the current projmts and carrying costs and that the Housing Commission will be coming back to the Committee about that and that there are a total of 15 residences still on the market. She said that they have had 240 interested buyers who have come to their projects without having realtors, though the% are now strategizing to use some of the realtors on the Housing Commission: of those 240, 33% were qualified under HUD guidelines; of the 240, only 10% were credit -worthy and had a down payment: of the 25 people who were credit -worthy, only, 12 or 5% of the interested buyers coutd actually :get a mortgage and those v ere all before the current credit crunch. 7 of those have glared: 4 of Reba Place and 3 of ECDA's condos on Dobson. But of those 12, 3 are contracts ti•.Lt were signed before the credit crunch and have now been lost: even ones they thought weald be able to go forward, have not been able to. She said a CHDO can not go to a bank and get a line of credit any easier than their buyers can go to the bank and get a mortgage because CHDOs are not seen as for -profit: they do not get equity capital so they arc dependent on a rather small grant of S 16,000 from the HOME funds to keep their operations going. Pomng & De%— rr:e^t Ccvrm.ttee Meetrng Mnutes Page 6 Octooe• 27,203 Aid. Rainey asked which units sold. Ms. Munro replied that Reba Place had 12 and they sold 4. ECDA had 6 and they sold 3, the Land Trust had one and they are close to selling it, "Egon" had is 3 that are affordable and they haven't sold any, and that two of them are not City funded. Mr. Jeff Smith said regarding time donated by the Board members, Ms. Balkom is absolutely correct. He said she was too modest and that she was out there this weekend on a Land Trust house doing landscaping and putting down wood chips. He agreed with his. Munro that marketing without the benefit of realtors is difficult, these units are caught in that very narrow window between qualifying for affordable housing and qualifying to get a loan and it is a tough place. He said the City has made the commitment that this is a valuable endeavor and the real question regarding these HOME funds is whether we are going to grant them the allocation that has been requested. He said these are federal funds that have been made available for CHDOs and that the Housing Commissioners agreed that they should be split equally rather than spending a lot of staff time and organizational time arguing over a couple thousand dollars either way. fie believes to go into further details or to try to parse it out or move those numbers would be micromanagcment• He concluded, saying that the CHDOs and the Housing Commission arc in agreement that this is a proper use of the funds that are coming from the federal government (not from City propem- taxes or parking meters). Aid. Rainey disagreed with Mr. Smith, saying that federal dollars do come from people in Evanston and that they are not pennies from heaven. She said she is going to support dividing up the money but that it is becoming a full employment program, saying that in Evanston Community Development Association, the Executive Director and his assistant are betting $50,000, they have one building of six units, 3 of which are vacant and she does not know that one 6 unit building with 3 vacant units requires a S50,000/yr salary- She said the Land Trust has one house that is still vacant and they are getting approximately S29,000. She added that her constituents want her to micromanage tax dollars and she feels they arc wasting money, adding that the City is going to be getting a request to cam these vacancies to the tune of 529,000 a month. She said she does not know how a not -for -profit can cam' their development without the City's help, but that she is not going to vote for it. She said this was a good idea to begin with, just like 1700-1722 Central Street was a good idea, but the time has come when this just can't work right now. She said if they can't find people in the City of Evanston to find banks who will loan money to people who require affordable housing at these prices, then we need to rethink the whole program at this time adding that she believes we need a moratorium on affordable housing projects. Nis. Betty Sue Ester of Citizens' Land Trust said she understands the frustration of the Committee and that their frustration is the organizations' and also the people of the community's. They are trying to create a market for people who cannot afford the kind of condos that Mr. Crocker is trying to sell. She said they have a different type of bu} er who requires a lot of loving tender care and hand -holding and that sometimes they act a mortgage then they get frightened by the news and wom, that the bank will fold and they constantly try to reassure their bu%cr. She said that in 2007 thr Committee asked the CI1DOs for an explanation of ho« they operate and «liat they do. The CHDOs have been waiting for tlic opportunity to present this information to the aldermen. She said what they do entails creating a house and selling a house but there is also a lot more involved: counseling, %%orkina with the counselors, and educating the community on what the components are of affordable housing. She said they are having a Community Affordable Housing Forum on November 13, 7:00 p.m. at the Levy Center. She said she hopes that the Committee will be there. She thanked Aid. Holmes and Aid. Jean -Baptiste for their support of the Housing Forum. She said Interfaith Housing had its annual meeting last night and they talked about the issue of foreclosure that has affected this market so badly and that people need answers to their questions about foreclosure, such as what will happen if they go into foreclosure and what Purring & CeweWnem Cmnrra;.ee meerng MntAes page 7 Octcter 27. 2OW is the process. At the forum, they ►vill try to address the community's questions. She again asked for an opportunity for the CHDOs to speak to the Committee aboutwhat they do. She also asked when the City would be posting notice of the Neighborhood Stabilization Program meeting for citizen review and comment. She said again that a CHDOs work is more than selling a house: first you have to find it, then you have to sit down and crunch numbers to see if you can do it and there is much more to be done. She said she would love for any of them to come and sit in the chair of the Director. Mr. David Janzen of Reba Place Development Corporation, stated that the $16,000, if approved, will be used for salaries that haven't been paid for quite a while. He said that 3 years ago they were wrapping up a project on Elmwood where they had one open house attended by 5 people and of those 5, 2 bought the 2 vacant units and that those buyers are in their units and doing well. He said no one can predict what is going to happen 3 years from now with the economy just as back then no one was able to predict ►►fiat would happen in 3 years. He said that in the past 2 weeks he has shown the condo units to 8 interested buyers and that there is a demand but the way it's been going they will be lucky if one of them can close because the standards at the banks are so much more stringent, so the CHDOs have to work a lot harder to get results. He said the CHDOs, the City and the banks are all in this together, placing blame for the current situation is not helpful, and that they need to look at the current situation and figure out what to do in these circumstances. He said the City doesn't want these properties to land in their lap, the banks don't want them to land in their lap, and the CHDOs want to get them sold so they're working on the best plans they can. He said they twill be back to discuss this with the Committee, but they want to talk about it in the sense that they are all in this together. Aid. Rainey asked Air. Janzen to remind the Committee of the subsidy they voted on for the 602 Mulford property. Air. Janzen replied that there was an initial acquisition subsidy of 5600,000 and later tar S80,000 more because of other City requirements that were added to the project. Aid. Holmes said that unlike the other CHDOs, Citizens' Lighthouse had personnel expenses of about S38,000 and ECDA S50,000 but when she got to Reba Place she did not see salaries. She said there were only salaries of S400 and $397.50 listed for 707 Seward. She said there were administrative expenses but she could not determine which of those were salaries and she found it confusing. She referred to the Housing Opportunities Development Corporation, where there was a salary of S 15,000 in the budget for the Executive Director. She said she would be voting not to divide the money equally because of these discrepancies. Air. Janzen explained that those expenses were the ongoing operations for the buildings that they have regular responsibilities for, and that the owner's statement for 602 Mulford will show a developer's fee of about S100,000, which pays for the oversight of that project over a period of 3 years. Aid. Holmes said that 602 Mulford showed year to date administrative expenses of about S18,835 and asked Air. Janzen to explain how many people ►►erc employed. \ir. Janzen explained that Reba Development Corporation does not have anyone working full time, that he works about 1/3 time, Mary Deering works about time, and there are some interns and some other people so it is divided among several people who are ►►orking less than full time. Aid. Holmes said she wanted to know what percentage was. paid to ►►hat employee: director, custodian or secretary, etc. Mr. Janzen said Reba Place Development Corporation does not have actual staff. He said it contracts with Reba Apartments for administrative and development services and that Ile works for Reba Apartments and that that is ►why you don't see staff salary in the budget. Aid. Rainey explained that you would look at salaries as the management fees: Reba Apartments manages many buildings and that is why there are no salaries listed for the CHDO buildings' management. She said that Housing Development Corporation is very well documented: they list S290,000 for salaries. Aid. Holmes replied that of the S290,000 listed, you only see $15,000 for Planning 5 De_,ecrrrr tnt Comm uee hleetrtg hl:nums Page 8 October 27.1CCc an Executive Director and that she would like to know how many people are being paid, and what percentage they are getting. Aid. Jean -Baptiste stated that he will vote to support the equal distribution of the funds but from what he has seen, it is very expensive to place someone in an affordable unit. He said in the short term, the target should be foreclosures. He thanked Betty Ester for adding foreclosure prevention to the agenda of their meeting on Nov. 13'h. He said the difficulty of discussing in detail whether to support CHDOs and their salaries may not be the most pressing issue to spend their time on, adding that the Housing Commission is directing a lot of energy towards affordable housing and the ship is sinking for many people who have homes but face foreclosure in the immediate future. He said that if we %%ere to direct this much energy and resources to those who are facing this kind of crisis, we might be able to help them and that they must shift their attention to foreclosures. He asked that tht Housing Commission find a way to add the margin to the cost of using a realtor to sell affordable housing, and find a greater pool of potential buyers since they might get more qualified buyers from a larger pool. He suggested that we support this request for CHDO administrative funding, which is based on pre-existing needs to cover operating costs and outstanding salaries, etc. but asked that the CHDOs be creative, negotiate with realtors, add that margin and get these units moving. lie asked that they don't create any nest/ units right now, He also asked that the Housing Commission refocus their attention and come to the Committee with a creative way to help with the foreclosure crisis. He said Ms. Donna Spicuna has put sonic proposals and some analysis together and there is all kind of attention being paid to it and that in Evanston we need to troubleshoot this problem. lie said there may be people svho could help themselves out of foreclosure with one or 2 months' contribution while they transition from unemployment to employment and that this is the issue that is really relevant. tic said he is supporting the CHDO funding now, but he will be hardening his position on what we do next. He said we ha% a got to shoot late arrow at the target. Aid. Wollin added that site has gotten many emails asking if this money could be used for foreclosures, and Mr. Marino said the IIOME funds cannot be used for foreclosures. Aid. Moran stated that this is a request from 5 CHDOs for $16 200 each. He said they definitely merit getting these relatively modest amounts of money and he thinks the Committee should vote in favor. Aid. Tisdahl stated that she is going to support funding the CHDOs equally even though it makes no sense to her, because it is what they agreed to do but she echoed Aid. Jean -Baptiste that the Affordable limning Program needs to look for more bang for the buck. Site asked that they do consider lookink at foreclosures and doswnpayments or anything that will be more helpful to more people because what we've got is n hideously expensive system that is not helping enough people. Aid. Rainey coTTected herself that the carrying charges on these approximately 14 unsold Affordable hous v units totals S29,000. it is 521,963.00 as stated in the minutes of the Housing Commission. She added that it appears as though the Committee is going to be asked to help pay these costs and wondered what resources the City has, ether than the general fund, since HOME funds cannot be used to assist foreclosures, to pay for the vacant units since they were created with HOtiiG funds. Mr. Marino replied that yes, we are able to use HOME funds because they are projects under de+elopment and the focus of HOME funds, based on federal regulations, is creating a new ca rehabbed housing unit so the funds can be used for that purpose, since they are not occupied yez— He said HOME funds are project based with the exception of the ones being considering tonight, adding that Affordable Housing funds have more flexibility because they are City funds. t'lamN & Oeve+cprnent Comrnnee h!eetng Minutes Page 4 October 27, 2008 . Aid. Rainey agreed with Aid. Moran that to argue over dividing the S16,000 equally between the CHDOs is silly, but to discuss the whole issue is not silly and seeing the CHDOs' budgets and being able to drill down into the issue because of the budget discussion was important and presented them with some very serious issues. The Committee voted unanimously, 8-0 to approve the motion. ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION IV. ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION (PD1) Discussion of Planned Request For Ounlifications (RFO) for Consulting Services for Affordable Housing Comnrehensive Plan to he Develoned by Affordable HousinLy Task Force (PD2) Foreclosure Issues At Ald. Iiansen's request and the unanimous vote of the Committee, the Items for Discussion ivere held over until the next meeting, Ms. Evonda Thomas, Director of the Health and Human Services Department, announced that on Nov 5th at 6:00 p.m., the Health and Human Services Department will sponsor a Foreclosure Prevention Workshop at the Civic Center given by the National City Mortgage Company, a Division of the National City Bank of Indiana. Mr. Marino summarized a New York Times article that had been distributed to the Committee that highlighted the recent restructuring of 60,000 mortgages by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation. He explained that the article was about these troubled homeowner loans which were in the portfolio of lndymac Bank in California, and were taken over by the FDIC, and how the FDIC cut in half the monthly payments of homeowners in the first 5 ),cars and then loaded that principal on the back end of the mortgage and in this manner were able to keep 60,000 people out of foreclosure. He said it is not being replicated broadly across the country but it is an example of one of many things that arc being looked at on the federal level and among bank regulatory agencies_ He said the article also talked about using FHA insurance as a way to help insure the risks of lenders that are willing to do this. Chair Wollin confirmed with some of the Plan Commission members that the Downtown Plan will be forwarded to the P&D Committee for the next PAD meeting. ADJ0L R.N'.%IENT The meeting was adjourned at 8:55 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Bobbie New -man Planning & Development Committee Meeting Minutes of November 10, 2008 Council Chambers — 630 p.m. Evanston Civic Center Aldermen Present: S. Bernstein, A. Hansen, D. Holmes, L. lean -Baptiste, E. Moran, A. Rainey, E. Tisdahl. C. Wollin. M. Wynne Staff Present: K. Cox, J. Chambers. S. Guderley, D. Marino, B. Ne%mw, T. Norfleet, D. Spicuzza Presiding Official: Alderman Wollin DIECLARATION OF OttORUM Chair Wollin called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.nL. a quorum being present. ITEMS FOR CONSIDERATION IP11 Draft Downtown Plan - Recommendation for Anoroval from Plan Commission Plan Commission recommendation to approve the Draft Downtown Plan as revised by the Plan Commission Chair Wollin announced that there would be a short introduction from former Chair and Associate Member of the Plan Commission. Larry Widmeyer. a presentation of the Draft Downtown Plan by consultants Kirk Bishop of Duncan Associates and John L&Motte of The Lakota Group, and questions by the Committee. The Planning & Development Committee meeting on November 24 will be devoted to public comment. She added that the draft plan and transcripts are available on the City's websitc. Mr. Widmeyer said he began the planning stages of the Downtown Plan three years ago when the guiding principles were formed, dividing the Downtown into three areas. The consultants were hired to help uith applying form based code to the Downtown. He explained that the materials contain two versions of the Draft Downtown Plan. a "redline" version, showing the history of the changes, and a "clean" version showing the current draft plan. He introduced Kira: Bishop of Duncan Associates. W. Bishop presented the substantive points of the Draft Downtown Plan in a PowerPoint presentation. He said their task was to provide an update of the Strategic Plan of 1989 whose goals were to: encourage economic growth; promote building and development; retain strong pedestrian orientation and physical amenities; attract shoppers. businesses and residents; circulate uafiic; and provide a high -activity, 24t7 downtouvu. He said the original 19S9 plan has been wildly successful. He gave a timeline of the progress starting with the Comprehensive General Plan formed in 2000 to the Downtown Guiding Principals, formed in 2007. He reviewed the plats update process from the lick -off Plan CommissiortiCity Council work session in June, 2007 to the 13 Plan Commission meetings ending in October of 200S. He re%iewed the Charrette Principles: street level intimacy; enhanced public amenities; thoughtful new construction; and better rules for development. He said these were formed in collaboration with the Plan Commission and with ?arn g b Dewliopme-•r Car.-rr.tee Meetrg %l rxAes Page 2 Nover Der 10. 2008 important input from the Preservation Commission using all the information gathered from the community to form a draft of the downtown plan. He stated the updated vision for the downtown: "A mixed -use central business district that is attractive, convenient, livable, sustainable, accessible, and economically vibrant for residents. businesses, and visitors_ . , it is everyone's downtown.." Mr. John Lallone presented illustrations of the areas recommended for parks, open space and pedestrian environment, including open greenfrneeting space opportunities at the current outdoor library parking lot and at the northeast corner of Maple and Grove Streets, and enhancements of green spaces at the plaza at Sherman and Elgin, Oldberg Park. Fountain Square, and Raymond Paris. He also showed an illustration of an enhanced Bookman's alley with upgraded paving and windows or faux windows. Mr. U%fotte presented the circulation and parking goals of the downtown plan: encourage increased transit use (residents and visitors); enhance vehicle, bicycle and pedestrian circulation; continue focus on rvay-finding sighs; study the feasibility of realigning Orrington/Clark and Orringtort/Davis intersections; study the feasibility of making Orrington and Sherman 2-way streets; implement the City's new bike plan; improve sidewalk conditions; and lobby for high - quality. convenient transit service. A Multi -Modal Transportation Study was done by KLOA, Inc. of the Consultants' team. Mr. LaMotte presented the recommended alternative to the Orrington-Clark intersection which would close Clark Street and take Orrington to a "T" intersection at Elgin Rd. and an alternative to the Orrington Davis intersection expanding Sherri= PIaza to the west, and possibly making Sherman and Orrington two-way streets, which has been shown to be better for retail stores. .-fr. LaNlone explained the Core, Wcst/East Core and Edge Character Zones, showing that the two railroad tracks are at the Core. He presented an overlay identifying development opportunity sites for the future, explaining that development characteristics would be guided by form based code for each of the downtown Character Zones. lie said that form based code would preserve flexibility and quality by specifying guidelines for building size, height and floor area, but if a developer proposes to go outside the guidelines, he.'she would be subject to a public review process similar to a planned development and an opportunity for "bonuses" based on public benefits. such as: underground parking; whole -building sustainability; on -site affordable housing; affordable office space; public parks'open space; wrapped concealed parking; landmark preservation; streetscapelalley improvement; public plazas; and fagade improvements. He said these bonuses would afford the developer specified adjustments to the guidelines. %fr. Latilottc presented illustrations of the way the buildings would look if they follow the form based code compared to the way they look now. Mr. LaMotte noted that the City is still working on the Downtown Zoning ordinance_ Aid. Rainey asked when the consultants thought the Burger King site mould be redeveloped, since it is very successful. Mr. LaMotte replied that the site is underdeveloped and if a developer came in who wanted to buy the property, it could be reconfigured, explaining that he didn't mean it would be removed from the site if it was redeveloped. He suggested that the parking lot in back of the Burger King could some day be a building. lie explained that these are the ideas for the future. for if and when it happens, what the City would want there. Chair Woliin stated that the University's Campus Framework Plan for the next fifty years includes opening Orrington and adding street level shops on Clark, possibly with student housing above. Pl,yrirg s Detiecq'v-r M'eerrg Minutes ?ages Nowrr-ne— 10, 20C9 Aid. Tisdahl said that Evanston citizen, Carl Bova did a parking study which showed a different ratio of autos per household than KLOA's study. She asked whether his data changed the outcome of KLOA. Inc_'s study, to which Mr. LaMotte replied that they did not change &eir data. He also said KLOA's study was done in the summer. The Committee agreed that then is less traffic in the summer. The Committee discussed the perception of a lack of parking in the downtown. fir. LaNforte said regarding the perception that there is not enough parkins, there are many off-street parking spaces which people may not be taking advantage of. He also said that not providing two parking spaces per residence in a building compels buyers to decide to make a life-style change when they purchase there, given the transportation options Evanston offers. The Committee discussed the alternatives, such as zip cars, U•Go cars and car lifts. Mr. Bishop said the parking generation data is consistent with research throughout the country. The Committee discussed the balance between adding enough green space while promoting economic stability. Mr. La.Motte suggested that if parkins is being added within the new buildings, the new green spaces would work, and that there would hopefully be retail surrounding these green spaces. Chair Wollin thanked the Consultants for their presentation. Chair Wollin called a Special Meeting to be televised, on Thursday, December 4°, 2008, to be devoted to discussion of the Draft Downtown Plan. The Committee agreed to continue the Downtown Plan until the November 24`6 meeting. Chair Wollin announced that E,.mwk will hold a public meeting on Thursday. November 20, 2008 at 3.30 p.m. in the 3'a floor auditorium of the Rotary Building at 1560 Sherman in E%-anstotL ITEINIS FOR DISCUSSION IV. ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION fPDll Discussion of alanned RFO for Consulting Services for affordable Housing Comprehensive Plan Update of Housing Commission plans to develop an Affordable Housing Comprehensive Plan Ms. Susan Munro of 1516 Nlaple and Chair of the Housing Commission, refreshed the Committee on their plan in June to develop a Comprehensive Plan for Affordable Housing_ She said the Task Force assigned to form the plan represents a variety of knowledgeable people including residents %%ho are in need of affordable housing, bankers, and experts in affordable housing_ She said they are requesting the use of AlTordabic Housing Funds to hire a consultant. as these funds are not in the general fund and mint be used for housing. She said the current strategy for providing affordable housing is not meeting those in need because there are empty units, many who still need units, and a moratorium on building more, adding that this is the perfect time to do planning. She said the criteria described in the packet memo would rnake the process easier. Aid. Moran said the request is a valid and sensible w-ay to spend the Afl'ordable Housing Funds and suggested that the request be granted. Aid- Rainey suggested the Housing Planner PParr ng 5 De e+cgrem Corn =ee Meeting M-rules Page 4 M1rtxernWr IQ 2008 collaborate with the Task Force to create the plan. Aid. lean -Baptiste asked for further explanation of the proposed use of the consultant and the expected outcome of the plan. Ms. Munro explained that we are dependent on CHDOs to find properties with no guidance from the City and consequently we are not addressing the City's needs, especially for rental property. She further explained that there has been a push towards home ownership since the end of the 1990's and the City needs to address the needs of the people who cannot afford to buy a home. She said she expects that a practical plan would come from the consultants. She said the Commission members and the Housing Planner, though committed to the task, need someone with expertise to keep the process moving - Aid. Rainey said she believes it could be done for less than 560,000. At the request of Aid. Jean - Baptiste, fir. Marino explained that per the HUD guidelines, the Home Funds roll over to the foilo%%ing year. but must be committed and dispersed by a designated period of time. He said the City receives 5550,000 a year and the current balance is approximately SIA million in uncommitted funds. with 5800,000 reserved for future CHDO projects, to be used within 2 years. ,%fr. Marino said Staff is committed to secine the Comprehensive Plan succeed, and that Ms. Spicum, the Housing Planner can devote some time to it, and possibly some other Housing staff, but an outside facilitator would also bring a fresh perspective to the process. Ald. Rainey said her ward is greatly impacted by low income households and she would bite to use the money to help people who own a home and are struggling to replace a furnace, a roof or a porch, or paint. She eked if it could be used for rehabbing. Ms. Munro said the plan would have a rehab component to it. She said that when a unit is empty for over a year, renting is a temporary option to prevent it from remaining empty. Mr. Andrew McGonigle of the Comprehensive Plan for Affordable Housing Task Force and architect for Northwestern University, said he is very happy to work on the Task Force, but he believes it is important to grant the request as he has seen the benefit of using a consultant in the development of the Evanston Master Plan. Aid. Rainey suggested he ask the Kellogg School of Business at Northwestern to come forward and lend us a consultant, to which he replied he was there as a private indi%idual and not as part of the university. but he will take her message to Kellogg. {PD21 Foreclosure Issues At Chair Wollin's request and the unanimous vote of the Committee, this item will be held over until the next meetine. ADJOURNMENT The meeting was adjourned at 8:55 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Bobbie Newman Planning & Development Committee Meeting Minutes of November 24, 2008 Council Chambers — 6:30 p.m. Evanston Civic Center Aldermen Present: S. Bemtein, D. Holmes. L. Jean -Baptiste, E. Moran, A. Rainey, E. Tisdahl. C. Wollin, M. Wynne Staff Present: K. Cox. J. Chambers, S. Guderley, D. Marino, B. Nevmian, T. Norfleet, D. Spicum Presiding Official: Alderman %VoIlin DECLARATION OF OUORUM Chair Nforan called the meeting to order at 7:03 p.m., a quorum being present. APPROVAL OF THE OCTOBER 27" AND NOVEMBER 10M 2008 MINUTES Aid. Wollin corrected the November 10. 2008 meeting notes at the bottom of Page 2 to say that "the University Campus Plan for the next "fifty" years includes opening Orrington and adding street level shops on Clark. possibly with student housing above." Aid. Rainey corrected the recording of her comment in the November 10'd meeting notes on Page a to correctly say her ward is greatly impacted by low income households (not low income housing). She also asked that �1r. Andrew McGonigle's response to her request for Kellogg School of Business to come forward with a consultant, be added. Chair Moran corrected the November 10'' meeting notes on Page 3 to say "The Committee agreed to continue the Downtown Plan until the November 24's meeting." The Committee unanimously approved the November 10, 2008 meeting notes as amended. The Committee unanimously approved the October 27`h meeting notes. Chair Moran announced that he will request that the Administration and Public Works Committee finish their meetings by 6:30 so that the Planning and Development Committee can begin on time. Ald. Bernstein announced a Special Planting & Development Committee meeting to be held on November 25", 2005, to discuss the proposed Traditional Districts of the Downtown Plan. ITEMS FOR CONSIDERATION (I'll Draft Downtown Plan - Recommendation for Annroval from Plan Commission Consideration of Plan Commission recommendation to approve the Draft Downtown Plan as revised by the Plan Commission. Mahnsig b Dewaco mere Cormm :.-ee &1eetng Vn:re5 ,gage 2 No%vr ser 24. ?069 Chair Moran requested that citizens commenting on the Draft Downtown Plan limit their comments to 3 minutes, as the December 4" meeting will be devoted exclusively to the Draft Downtown Plan. He called the speakers to the podium. Mr. Doug Geyer of 811 Chicago Ave_ and on behalf of the Southeast Evanston Association (SEA) board said after careful review =d attendance of the downtown plan meetings, the SEA supports the creation of additional open public spaces and inclusion of sustainability building practices in the zoning code. He said they also support requiring proposed developments to require height in feet, not in stories, loping major streets one way, limiting maximum building height, putting in approved bonuses, and the core height of between 270' or 25 stories. He said they agree that the core can take on abare height but did not approve of the 42 story maximum proposed in the 2007 plan. He said they approve the specific public benefits that developers must meet. He said the SEA has serious concerts about the following: 1) Base height designations in the various zones are by right, so no public review is required if development is below limit. Limits range from 3-6 stories. They recommend that SPAARC or another agency be given authority to require architectural adjustments, as they do not believe form based zoning should be a substitute for public involvement in community development. 2) Transitional Zones: They question the 15 story limit for the nor-zh edge. They feel that recently approved projects, rather than the context of the area serve as the model for height and density. They feel the 10 story height for the east edge is not accc—ptable as it is immediately adjacent to 8-story housing transitioning to single family homes and it is closest to the lake shore. 3) Parking and land use: The SEA feels the proposed building requirements for residential development are reasonable, but that parking for small business and retail development has not been adequately addressed. They would like to see the City propose business development incentives. They would like to sec a decrease in parking requirements for office and professional space and the encouragement of employees to use existing garages. 4) Bonuses: They believe there will be pressure on City Council to make exceptions to design standards and they hope the Council will be vigilant of the plan's requirements for sustainable height, high quality urban design and other features that improve Evanston's quality of life. %1r. Geyer concluded that the Downtown Plan is a good start. Mr. Jim Corirossi. President of the Downtown Residents' Association, requested to have more time to speak at the December 41' meting. ,1r. Fred Tannenbaum of 807 Days said he is a relatively new to Evanston and that he appreciates the downtown the way n is and not the way they are trying to make it. He said downtown Evanston has everything tveryone wants without the dancers of making the stints two lanes and too wide. He also said the density the City is considering will create a hazard to pedestrians at rush hour. %fr. Carl Bova of 1322 Rosalie St :-et said he stands by every one of his 43 transportation comments reflected in his letter of November 61°. 200S and hopes the City w711 seriously consider them. In response to some of the qv_r.-tions raised at the \'ovcmber 10 meeting. he said he did a random check of other communities' narking ratios and it suggests that Evanston's ratios arc a bit high for the 3 bedroom units, but o% ll not as high for the ratios for smaller units as they are in other communities. The 3 bedroom units are only a small fraction of any development, so the impact of reducing that is slight. In response to Ald. Tisdahl's question about the ratios being slashed for all bedroom units, trans:, ridership, in particular CTA ridership has been decreasing since 1994. Davis St. \tetra is t:: by 500 riders per day from 1999 to 2006 (roughly the development framework for dow-nto-am). if all 500 riders originate from the 1,753 additional units that are dowmo%vn, 3,500 pet -+le, the increase of 500 represents only 151% of downtown residents. This is no better than the test of Evanston, so downtown is only transit -oriented because the buildings are close to =sit. Use of the transit by larger numbers of people would P4arre-g & Ce. opmeru Comm .n�t tfeet rYg Noux tes Page 3 Now --ner 2s. 2DO8 suggest true transit oriented development. He explained that CTA ridership is still down about 500 riders per day since 1980 through 1985 and no-one lived downtown at that time. He said the plan questionnaire states that people own 1.38 cars per household but the flawed Table 5A survey showed between .83 and I.18 cars per household, adding that this discrepancy is not explained in the plan, but that he explains it in his comment letter, citing 10 reasons as well as his own survey of 68 cars at the Sherman Plaza parking garage parked outside of the cordoned area. He said the Plan did not address the discrepancy or the City Manager's directive to explore the issue. He said that federal study indicates that there is a direct relationship between the increase in cars owned per household and increased income. Downtown is relatively high income and residents' ownership of 1.83 per household is consistent with this relationship to income. He said downtown is an economic engine for the city, it is not transit oriented. He said Aid. Rainey correctly observes few vehicles at multi -unit developments in her ward, which is truly transit oriented development since this part of town is lower income households, who take transit and own fewer cars. As for appendix B. he said, it computes required parking on the basis of unit arras yet no check of the unit sixes was included even with the available plans showing unit sizes: all one bedrooms were considered 800 square feet, all two bedrooms were between 800 and 1.500 and all three bedrooms were assumed over 500 square feet, saying this gross assumption negates the value of any formulation of parking ratios based on square footage of area. He said he checked the scope of work for the multimodal transportation plan relative to parking and there is virtually no overlap of scope Kith the downtown plan. saying the multimodal plan is not looking at individual buildings form a policy standpoint, but rather parking and traffic generation and movement on the whole through the downtown area and parking on streets and within surface and municipal gasgcs, not for private parking ratios. He said the plan does not address Aid. Wynne's question regarding guest spaces, yet some communities do. He concluded that his overall response to the Draft Downtown Plan would be to strike most of the content on transportation: parking, traffic. closure of streets, one way street conversions and removal of surface lots. He does not think it is very usable in the near future. He said the economic conditions favor consideration of other improvements, rather than the ones considered in the downtown plan, such as redevelopment of our lake front parks before they do parks in the downtown area, per the plan. Chair Moran thanked ;fir. Bova for his comments. Mr. litre Foods. Chair of the Plan Commission, voiced his support for the plan in its completeness, adding that it has been worked on very hard by the consultants and the Plan Commission. He said that as an individual an architect and an ubanist. he believes the central block of the downtown is a special block and that a project that brought everything the City would Kant including underground parking, ground level retail, maintaining affordable office space on the site and major public improvements to Fountain Square, would be a win -win situation, and that it ought to be considered, but in the framework of the downtown plan as it is presented, that opportunity does not exist. lie asked the Committee to consider it_ Chair ~loran thanked Mr. %Voods and thanked the Plan Commissioners for all the work they have done. He stat.d that December 4". the discussion Nvould continue, (P2) Ordinance 127-0-08. An Ordinance Amending the Tezt of the Zoning Ordinance by Adding Section 6-15-15. "oNVE West Evanston Overlav District" and Section 6-15-16. "WE1 West Evanston Transitional District" Considerytion of a Plan Commission recommendation for approval of text amendments to the Zoning Ordinance to add a new zoning district "WE1 -- Rest Evanston Transitional District, and to add a new overlay district "oWE — West Evanston Overlay District" to Chapter 15 - Special Purpose and Overlay Districts. rPLYY V b CAc%aicprnent Comm zee Meerr g V a xes November 24, 2008 AND pa<,e 4 (P3) Ordinance 128-0-08, An Ordinance Amending the Zoning INfau to Re -Zone Certain Properties Pursuant to the West Evanston Phvsical Planning and Urban Infill Design Master Plan Consideration of a Plan Commission recommendation for approval of map amendments to change the base zoning district designations for several properties within the West Evanston Plan area as specified In the Nest Evanston Plan Zoning Implementation document, Base Zoning District Changes map and to designate properties currently within the West Evanston Plan area to be Included in the oNVE West Evanston Overlay District as specified in the West Evanston Plan Zoning Implementation document, Nest Evanston Zoning Overlay map. Aid. Holmes said the West Side has been discussed since 2000. She commended the community and stab for their hard work. She said the West Side CanaVGreenbay/Church Street Plan covered a number of broad issues: unemployment. transportation, public safety, youth, social services, and economics which all stiII need to be addressed. She explained that the presentation tonight is simply the zoning amendments needed to make the West Side Master Plan, which was adopted is May of 2007, in compliance. She added that despite all the efforts to educate everyone, there remain some misunderstandings. She said they will continue to work to eliminate those and that she and Aid. Jean -Baptiste will sponsor another community meeting on December 2nd. She said they have spent several months working with the business owners on Church Street and did reach an agreement, adding that of course not every one got everything they wanted but that the presentation tonight will reflect the majority views of the physical plan including setbacks, strcetscapes and building heights. She said they will continue to work on the unresolved issues. Ald. lean -Baptiste said the west side of town has had its own unique character in that the Afro- American community has historically been congregated there and that at this point the highest concentration of Afro-Americans are in West Evanston, and they do not perceive it as a stigma. He explained that in the City's history, it has not concentrated a significant amount of resources on improving the West Side, so it is a natural response that when there are initiatives on the part of the city to set up a T1F, talk about planning, and discuss the zoning overlay, there would be concerns abou+. gentrification and the implication of whatever changes the City is proposing to the long terra stability of that community, adding that those questions will continue to color the kind of interaction between the activists on the West Side and the City. He said criticism existed two years ago when market analysts projected that new condos built on the west side of town would sell for between S200.000 and S300,000, town homes would sell for between $350,000 and S500,000, and single family homes from S355.000 and up. He explained that in any neighborhood, what happens depends on what the market will bear and it cannot always be controlled but, he said, the City needs to pay close attention to how to maintain an equitable perspective on the best interest of the development of the entire city and make sure the kind of attention that is paid to downtown, is also paid to the neighborhoods and that they listen to the concerns of the residents. He said that sometimes people mix their concerns about zoning with concerns about jobs or other maners of economic development that may or may not mesh together, and that they have to assure everyone that the Committee is concerned about everyone, not just the downtown. He reminded the public of the upcoming meeting. Ms. Susan Guderley, Neighborhood Planner and Staff Lead on the West Evanston planning process, said that the Canal/Greenbay Road Church Street planning effort that ran from 2000 to 2003, was led by the Neighborhood Committee of the PIan Commission. It involved over 30 public meetings the first year and a half, which all took place in West Evanston, either at mam:ng b De•.;rcr Comm.ttee Meer; � M—Ise's Page 5 Noremt>—_ 2-. 20t6 Fleetwood Jourdain or Family Focus. She said the process was documented in the Canal/Greenbay Road/Church Strect Neighborhood Planning Study that was adopted by City Council in September of 2005. Shc said the plan documents the fact that neighborhood discussions resulted in identif}1nz six priority areas for West Evanston economic development, urban design and zoning, public infrastructure services. streets, housing, public safety and youth. She said the report also contains 21 fioals and 119 action recommendations, saying that since the last time Staff updated the progress towards implementation, the City has taken steps towards addressing 10 of these goals and 37 action recommendations. She said the West Evanston Master planning process and tonight's zoning overlay alone, implement 8 of the goals and I I of the action recommendations, as detailed in her memo that was part of the packet. Ms. Guderley explained that the next step in the process was the adoption of the West Evanston Tax Increment Financing (TIF) area # 6, which was intended to stimulate economic development in West Evanston and attempt to address the need for private investment business and job attraction. The TIF proceeds were estimated to be S25 million over 23 years or the life of the TIF. TIF proceeds can be used to finance eligible activities, expenses and improvements within the TIF. One of the first projects that took place once the TIF had been approved %-as the redevelopment of the Hines Lumber site, which today is Church Street Village, which stimulated much discussion in the community because most of the properties within the TIF are zoned as industrial. The community's concerns with new development in the TIF were that there are no community -vetted public documents giving guidance to both developers and citizens as they evaluate new development within the TIF, and the community did not want to see developments That were enclaves unto themselves and did not relate to the rest of the community. On the basis of these issues. aldermen Holmes and Jean -Baptiste worked with staff to develop the West Evanston Master Plan with emphasis on a high level of community involvement in developing the plans and good urban design. The request for proposals (RFP) asked that particular attention be paid to creatively integrating new developments with existing neighborhoods. encouraging sustainable, well -designed streetscapes and architecture promoting walkable neighborhood centers for economic and community activity, and creating opportunities for public and private green spaces_ She said they explxred the use of form based codes, explaining that they are different from conventional codes in that conventional codes put emphasis on defining and segregating various uses, where form based codes are based on a specific physical plan for an area that is achieved through community process with residents and other stake -holders, reflecting their input. She explained that form based codes also implement the plan with an overlay that irv-ludes regulations that will achieve the development of the plan. She summed up the difference by saying convennonal codes say what can't happen, while form based code encourages the combination of rL:es, walkable communities and mixed uses and provides a vision of what can happen. Ms. Guderley introduced the cocsultants, Ms. Leslie Overholtzer. the Director of Planning for Farr Associant-s, who worked on Sub Areas 1 and 2 of the Master Plan and completed the form based code for all three of the S:;b Areas. and Mr. Jonathan Furr, Senior Legal Counsel with Holland and Knight, the City's I_nd use experts, who would talk about the outcome of four businesses who had concerns abbout non conforming status as their base zoning was changed to be consistent wish the plan. Ms. Guderlev explained that the-c are two steps form based code calls for: the chance of the base zoning of the affected properties to be consistent with the uses and the overall design shown in the Master Plan; and the application orthe zoning overlay which contains specific design standards for how buildings reLne to the street and to each other, as well as landscape and street standards. R,rning 5 De%,r4opmert Cornrnnee YeelN MrKAes Pane 6 Nt %ember 24. 2009 Ms. Leslie Overholtzer presented slides of the Nlaster Plan for Arras 1 and 2 and consultant JJR's Master Plan for Area 3 that was adopted in 11ay of 2007. She explained the proposed original boundaries. Area 1: Simpson north to Emerson including the Bishop Freeman site and the comer of Greenbay and Simpson. Area 2: Emerson to Church including Church Street Village and Area 3: Church Street down to Greenwood including the area fronting the High School and some of the parking lots that are currently serving the high school (one at the corner of Church and Dodge and others that are integrated into the neighborhood). She showed the areas not included in the overlay: In areas 1 and 2 existing famiiy homes just north of Foster, and the Com Ed Facility, which is hidden behind other parcels and buildings; Area 3 only includes the areas that will be redeveloped. She explained that much of the area is currently zoned industrial, especially the ones within 12, that there is a mixture of commercial (C'_) on Emerson, which is still industrial, and B2 at the comer of Church and Dodge. The proposal w•as to apply base districts that the City already had within the existing zoning code within these arras. They maintained the B2 at Church and Dodge and applied the B2 to the neighborhood-ser% ing commercial area at the corner and the existing commercial area. She said there was a lot of discussion about the appropriate base districts for all the residential areas, based on the Master Plan. Ms. Overholtzcr pointed out a sliver of R5 zoning within the neighborhood that they did not address, but the remainder is R4 base zoning, with building types applied to it. They felt that that was the guiding zoning district to apply. so they recommend rezoning all of the locations shown to R4 base district zoning. She said the form based code they suggest to apply over all the base districts uses existing uses and parking. They recommend that planned developments (PDs) are not permitted in the overlay, and they have a suggestion as to how to make those publicly viewed, that is a revision recommended by the Plan Commission. She said all the plans within the overlay would be presented to the Plan Commission in exchange for not having the planned development process. She said the reasoning behind this is that PDs are time consuming for the neighbors and the developers and City officials. Ms. Overholtzer said the form based code was based on a combination of the demands of the planners and the developers on what they would like to have happen in this location. Form based code attempts to show what you can expect to happen in this location, with some public display of what is to happen. The building blocks for the forth based code are the building types. She showed in the guide how each of these three building types are defined in the code: Mixed use, to be used in the B2 zoning district, and all their requirements, where on the site the building and the parking are located and the setbacks. A section through the building illustrates the height and use requirements. An elevation shows the pines expected to sc-- on the building type, such as fagade requirements. The mixed use form based code is very consistent with many of the current buildings at Church and Dodge, built closer to the street, with a narrow landscaped area and teaser parking in some locations such as Emerson and Grecnbay and Simpson, and one bay of parking to be added to the interior of the lot. They required location of the front entrance to be on a major street, a mixed use building must have a store front base with a significant amount of clear and open class and a basic requirement for fenestration above the first floor to make sure there is light and air in and out of the building and there aren't any blank walls. They've allowed for parking to be in the rear of a mixed use building but they have not allowed it to continue to the front of the building. The front must he occupied by people space, not car space. Ms. Overholtzer explained the code for apartment buildings: layout is similar to mixed use but does not require store front fagade_ It has either a stoop or a porch and parking can be underground. They've required a setback on ground level and the extra floor must match the surrounding buildings. The one on Emerson does not have to have that setback because it is adjacent to the senior building that is very tall and it doesn't have to have as much of a setback to snatch it. l��rnrg & Dew4qpn'ert Corrrr ::ee Neetng ".►,naes Pae 7 N;c%ermtrer 24, 7Qu9 For townhouses, there are a lot of parcels that would end up being fairly shallow so they der -eloped 3 different townhouse types_ The most common is Townhouse Type 2, similar to the Church Street Village townhouses with some modifications. They realized it needs to be a certain size in order for it to be saleable. Using standard townhouse dimensions, the townhouse must be 2.5 or 3 stories tall, so they required that the front fagade be held to a particular height but the back can be a little bit taller so that along the street you have the sense of a little lower height. even though they have allowed for the garage to be inserted into the rear. They put the building types and street types into regulating plans: She presented maps showing areas with their proposed building types, which are closely related to the Master Plan. She showed the different townhouse types and the areas they are proposed for. She showed in Area 2 the Regulation Plan in comparison to the :lister Plan and the locations of all the types of buildings, explaining that is was all derived from the community charrette process and that the regulating plans were based on the Master Plan. She said flex building allows for either retail or residential buildings, and that special use parkins lots could occur with a special use permit. 1`ts Overholtzer showed the street types and their locations which were determined by working kith developers and the Public Works Department. All the streets are connected. They incorporated a landscape requirement so that any of the parking lots adjacent to the street would have a landscape buffer and parking lot trees that were not previously included in the code. Nis. Overholtzer explained how the existing rail right of way areas would be landscaped and maintained and there would be a continuous trail that would go through Area 1 down to Foster and then be on a street on the Bishop Freeman site, through Areas 2 and 3, and would follow the eul right of way down to Greenwood Mr. Jonathan Furr of Holland and Knight gave an explanation of the West Evanston Transitional District (WEI) explaining that the discussions around this district came about from talking with the property owners that already are within the planning area and their concern about how the %ision that applied for the overlay district would impact the existing commercial district. He said they worked with the City to find a way to allow the existing businesses to continue to operate %ithout being non -conforming and would also have the opportunity to expand within the general framework for expansion the business owners thought feasible, but if there were to be a total mdevciopment of the sites, they would be redeveloped in accordance with the %faster Plan, saying that is what WE f District resula ions provide for. The permitted uses that are already permitted within the district are those that are already operating on these current sites or operate uses that are consistent with the overlay district_ He explained further that the other provisions of these regulations seneralhy provide that to the extent that the current uses are discontinued for 12 months if they are not tning to market or 1S months if they arc trying to market the sites, that any future development on the sites would have to be in accordance with the overlay district regulations. It also includes same spt6fic provisions about the permitted expansions for the sites as long as they arc continuing on with the same use as before, which is a change from typical r,on-conforming zoning provisions. w high do not allow expansion of non -conforming uses in structures. They have also put in place regulations which adhere to the landscaping and sireetscape in relation to the expansion. Chair Moran opened the floor to the citizens wishing to speak. Aid. Holmes said she thought that citizen comment w-as not to be heard until December 8th on the West Evanston Plan. Chair Moran assured her that citizens will have the opportunity to comment on December 8'h also. AamN & Dc e�rre . Corrm,nee MMf)g N.sn.res November 24. 2008 page Ms. Tina Payden of 1122 Emerson Street said she wished to read something from the internet regarding the West Evanston Plan zoning implementation. She said in general after public notice is made, the proposed changes arc reviewed by the Plan Commission, which holds a public hearing before making a recommendation to the City Council. She said that on Oct 15th , the Plan Commission had a meeting and that no-one was notified of the meeting. She asked what public notice was sent out and she said the public was not allowed to speak at that meeting. She said they had 40 people there to speak and she felt it was unfair that a decision had been made and the City did not follow procedure by not notifying the public and not giving them an opportunity to speak at that meeting. She said the City should give the citizens an opportunity to speak about the changes to the Plan. She also said she is against form based code and the public not being allowed to be heard once the overlay is passed. She believes the overlay should stipulate who is paying for infrastructure, asking whether it is the taxpayers or the developer, adding that she believes the developer should be made to pay for the infrastructure Chair Moran thanked his. Payden for her comment. `tr. Dennis Marino. Conununity Development Director. stated that over the past year the Plan Commission as well as the Zoning Committee of the Plan Commission have followed all proper procedure in handling this matter. There have been very extensive meetings, well attended by the public and properly noticed as well. Ms. Guderley said the original notice for the public hearing was published in August of 2007. therefore every meeting, as it was continued to a date certain, was announced at the end of each meeting. She explained that typically. they don't' send out notices each time a hearing is continued, though they have made sure that it is on the City's website and there has been outreach to the aldermen as well. Ms. Amy Stewart of 1606 Wesley said she got involved in the project during the Church Street Village process. Her community urged the City to adhere to the West Side Master Plan for the development of that area She said she believes it is a good process that has taken place. She feared that Church Street Village would turn into a closed community but she believes the plant addresses that issue. She thinks the plan has been an example of good government working well. She urged passage of the plan. Ms. Betty Ester of 2114 Darrow said the question of notices to the community has been raised at every meeting. She said that some people say they get notices. some do not, but they were not mailed certified so there is no confirmation of whether the notices were received. She said sometimes notices of cancellations were not posted on the web, or email notices of cancellations were late. On the website she said she is concerned that the CD that was included in the packet sent to Council members included the documentation submitted by Ms. Ester. She said she has received the transcripts of meetings that she requested in paper form and she would like to have them in electronic form, so they can be morn readily shared. She said the documents she is concerned about were given to the Zoning Committee and the Plan Commission and if the Committee members do not have them. she does not see how they can continue the process. ChairMoran suggested that \1r. Marino m �e the CD that was in the Committee's packet available to Betty Ester and if they were not included, he assured her that he will make sure that they are made available to the Committee for their review. Mr. Carliss Sutton of 1 S21 Darrow express:d his concerns about the accessibility of the plans and the possible outcome of the plans. He said be went to the library to look at the West Evanston Plans on two different occasions and did mm find them there. When he finally found the plan. there were several revisions in the zoning a. -ea that represented R5 and completely new zoning classifications. He was concerned about this because the form based code should be compatible Pfamr�g n Detie?ctr-sera Comm zc—, Vee:ng 1.1_r%Aes Nm--ocr 24. 2008 page 9 with the existing structures in the community and he was assured that there would always be an opportunity for citizens' input, but they had been denied it. He said he is not saying they deliberately did not %vast them to become involved in the planning process, but through a couple of missed cues, cancelled meetings and no quotas, there has been very little opportunity for any valid citizen participation and it seems that it is very difficult for this process to go on and be recommended for adoption When there arc very serious concerns about the process to this point. He said he is also concerned that this is a way of adopting zoning and using spot zoning that may frustrate the community's effort to maintain a certain life quality in their own community. He concluded that he is asking that they have an open discussion finally about this and that there are really serious concerns about gentrification, bait and switch, height , density and especially the cost of the buildings as the members of the community will never be able to afford to stay in these communities that they are planning. He thanked the Committee for listening to him. ChairMoran assured.Mr. Sutton that the Committee would do everything possible to make sure that all current proposals are completely available. He told him that if for any reason he finds that that is not the case. to please feel free to call him or staff and they will make sure that it is done. Chair Horan repeated that the discussion will continue on December 8th. Aid, ]cart -Baptiste announced that there will be a joint meeting of the 2nd and 5th Wards on December 2nd at 7:00 pin. at the Civic Center, and that the citizens also have one on one access to the aldermen. Aid- Jean -Baptiste clarified that the meeting on December 8th will be a Council meeting. He said that mailings would go out to the appropriate ward residents of the meeting on December 2nd and that notice of the 5th Ward meeting was posted on the City's wcbsite. Aid. Holmes said that these meetings have been announced already and that they will send out an email to block club leadt-rs who have email access, and they Ail] be asked to share the information with members of their block club who do not. Aid. lean -Baptiste also explained that when Plan Commission items are continued, they stay on the agenda until the Plan Commission refers it to the Planning & Development Committee. When meetings are continued, it is announced at the meeting. Those who were not in attendance can refer to agendas posted on the wcbsite. Ald. Bernstein suggested the citizens not dwell on the notice system. but move forward, come to the. next two meetings on December 2nd and December Sth and if it takes more time than that, it will be taken. - The Committee voted unanimously to hold the item in Committee. Pi Ordinance 126-0-09 An Ordinance Amending Section 6-18-3 of the Zoning Ordinance to Exclude Firearms -Related Businesses from the Definitions of "Retail Goods Establishment" and -Retail Services Establishment" Consideration of a Plan Commission recommendation for approval of a text amendment to the Zoning Ordinance to update the definitions of Retail Goods Establishment and Retail Services Establishment in Chapter 18 -Definitions" for the purpose of prohibiting the sale of firearms and ammunition. Ald. Tisdahl asked %%hether gun services of cleaning and manufacturing were included in the bait, because it was not in this ordinance. Mr. Ken Cox of the City's Legal Dept. said the Committee could make an amendment to the ordinance now to include it. The current ordinance was based upon recommendations that did not include the entire scope discussed at Plan Commission. Ramng s Deveiopme^r Comm nee Meeting Mixtes Page 10 Novemt)er 24, 2W8 Aid. Tisdahl moved to amend the ordinance to exclude gun services of cleaning and manufacturing along %%ith gun sales as permissible. Aid. Wynne agreed and suggested the amended language to be changed from. "shall not include businesses that exchange, Ioan, rent or otherwise transfer for consideration firearms handguns or ammunition." to "shall not include businesses that exchange, loan, rent manufacture or service, or otherwise transfer for consideration firearms handguns or ammunition." Ald. Tisdahl agreed. Aid. Rainey asked if AU Wynne could accept the amendment to include the words "alter and repair." Aid. Wynne accepted the amendment. She said that the transcript reflected the desire of one of the members of the Plan Commission to seek guidance from the Legal Dept, and she asked Mr. Cox to confirm that he has given his guidance and it is okay to include the conditions to the ordinance as amended. He confirmed that it is. Mr. Cox said the notice that was published on November 31st regarding the ordinance said that these types of businesses are actually already precluded by a separate section of the code. This is merely an amendment to the zoning ordinance in order to make sure that businesses who may wish to engage in these types of things would be able to find it within the zoning ordinance and would not have to look through separate laws of the City government. The Committee voted unanimously to approve the ordinance as amended. ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION (PDI) Discussion of Foreclosure Activities Update on the foreclosure situation In Evanston and remedial activities. Mr. Marino stated that the updates regarding foreclosure arc in the memo included in the packet materials, indicating a plan by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) to move forward with modified loans. The plan has not been fully approved, but there is material explaining it and the FDIC websitc has greater detail on it. Secondly there is a summary of the Illinois and Cook County Draft Neighborhood Stabilization Program plans. These two government entities have received considerable funding from the U.S. Dept. of dousing and Urban Development to assist municipalities with the acquisition of either foreclosed or abandoned property. lie said that they are currently setting up a process for municipalities such as Evanston to apply for grant money and that A a are pursuing that funding in both cases. Neither agency at this point has released a request for proposals. He said he expects that to happen in the first quarter of next year. Aid. Rainey said regarding foreclosure and pending foreclosures, shared a conversation she had with a constituent who is the president of an IS unit condo association that has 6 units currently in foreclosure. At least one has been completely abandoned. The units have separate heating sources and the residents are desperate for assessment money which they are not getting of course, and he warned her that next year the City rill probably be handing out notices for tall weeds because they are going to have to cut bask their lawn service to twice a month as opposed to every week. More importantly, she said, as the -winter approaches, they are unable to get responses from the banks that now own these properties in some cases and the private heating sources in each of these locked units are going to start having pipes bursting and the residents are terrified of the conditions that they are going to face. She said she is trying to bring to the Council different situations that they might be able to address. She is not sure about the Property PW"r)g 6 Dewloprr:-C Ccr-rv;ree Meetr g R"naes p2ge 1 I Novernoer 24, 2008 Standards Dept. going into units that are locked and left to the devices of the banks who are not responding. She said all these situations that have to do with foreclosure especially in multi- family buildings, are verb- serious. The residents are considering getting into the units to turn on the heat or turn off the water to prevent pipes from bursting. Aid. Holmes added that Jeff Murphy, the Assistant Director for Property Standards, was at her last ward meeting, where he talked about cleaning of the sidewalks outside of foreclosed homes and that once the banks get involved you are up against a stone wall. It is very difficult and she has many in her ward Aid. Jean -Baptiste complimented Betty Sue and the Citizen's Lighthouse and other CHDOs who presented the workshop on affordable housing and foreclosure prevention. Fie said a great deal of information was shared with those who attended. He addressed the public, saying that if anyone has a need for these agencies, if they are facing foreclosure or ]snow someone who is, to please call CEDA Neighbors at work. CEDA and Interfaith I lousing do counseling in this area. lie said to call the City and ask for Donna Spicuzza, who will refer citizens to the correct agency. He suggested that people ha%ing problems call the City and make requests for help because there is emergency assistance available through CEDA. ADJOURNMENT The meeting was adjouraW at 8.44 pm Respectfully submitted, Bobbie New -man SPECIAL :1MEETING Planning & Development Committee' Meeting Minutes ofNovember 25, 2008 Council Chambers — 7:30 p.m. Evanston Civic Center Aldermen Present: S. Berastein. D. Holmes, E. Moran, A. Rainey, E. Tisdahl Staff Present: D. Marino. B. Ncwman Presiding Official: Alderman !Moran I. DECLARATION OF QUORUM Chair Momn called the meeting to order at 7: 35 p.m., a quorum being present. 11. ITEM FOR DISCUSSION (PI) Recommended Downtown Plan Citizen Comment and Discussion on Proposed Traditional Districts of the Draft Downtown Plan Chair Moran explained that this is a meeting of the Planning and Development Committee to discuss the Draft Downtown Plan that has been sent to the Planning & Development Committee by the Plan Commission. He explained that the Committee has received messages from people who have property in the Davis Street area and perhaps other areas that are located in the Traditional District. The meeting is a function of having received communications from them indicating that they would like to comment specifically with respect to the Traditional Districts. He explained that there would be a presentation, after which time the floor would be opened. Mr. Dennis Marino introduced Mr. Tom Smith of Duncan Associates, saying that he is a very experienced expert in planning and zoning in the region, including being Zoning Administrator for the City of Chicago and working for many years with the American Planning Association nationally. lie said Mr. Smith would present an overview of the Traditional Districts and how they evolved in discussion with the Downtown Plan Committee, the Plan Commission and now under consideration by the Planning & Development Committee. Mr. Smith showed a PowerPoLnt presentation about the origins, goals and objectives of the Traditional Districts. lie said they have been working for a couple of years on the Downtown Plan. He said they were directed by the Downtown Planning Committee of the Plan Commission that the traditional areas that have the 3 and 3 story building forms. were the pedestrian shopping districts. He explained that the overall plan divides the downtown into character zones: the core area. transitional areas toward; the edge of downtown and the traditional districts, and that the districts are based on their existing characteristics. Through the process they identified some of the sites that were likely to be developed in the planning horizon for the Downtown Plan. He said the development framework ti_s the character districts to height limits and scale limitations and a public benefit bonus system explaining that everyone within the downtown area has a base height that they wort; from arJ if they Qualify for bonuses they can get additional height. He said that keeping the existing char_cteristics was the charge handed to them by the Downtown Planning Committee of the Plan Commission. They were instructed to establish these areas because they give a lot of character to downtown because of their lower height and density. Their Planning & Deveiopm-,rx Corn -melee Vf—_trc tJrues Page 2 November 25. 2D08 design features such as show windows and street store front access make them pedestrian shopping districts. They are older parts of downtown that people are most comfortable shopping and doing business in and are dramatically understood from the size and scale. He showed a slide of the northern most block of Sherman Avenue, explaining that they are distinctive in the downtown because they are smaller buildings whose uses are primarily for pedestrian shopping, they have good access to parking and there is not a lot of vacancy in the buildings there. There is a lot of pedestrian activity on those streets. Their use, form and shape seem to be very successful. He showed a representation of the Davis St. traditional district, capturing the lower scale buildings, some of which do have residential above, explaining that typically on these streets it is only 1 or 2 stories of residential above the retail shopping. He said in tcrnns of height limits, as of right, not all but marry of the traditional districts are currently D2. The plan allows a 42' height but there are some allowances in the current zoning system that allow buildings to go above 42' for parking and some other things. The proposed zoning recommends 38' of height in the traditional districts, allowing for a very tali retail space and a couple of floors of residential above it. If the developer does something extraordinary, like obtaining LIVED certification, or if they provide some amenity to the public above and beyond what their service provides, then they can get a bonus of added hei_dt to 60'. He concluded that the areas were established based on their current characteristics which are low scale buildings with pedestrian shopping orientation in areas that have historically been the City's primary shopping streets. The goal w-as to save that scale and use those characteristics. Chair Moran thanked him for his presentation. Aid. Bernstein said he is concerned that the Downtown Plan %a_s set out to tell us what should be. not necessarily what is_ He asked whether Mr. Smith was saying that it should be lower scale, yet in the first slide immediately south of the 1000 Davis block there was an 8.10 story condo complex. He said he %%as discouraged by Mr. Smith saying this was handed to the them and they accepted it when the rest of the downtown was also handed to them with its existing functions, part of it is still very vital, part of it is not, but, he asked why they particularized the traditional zone to maintain the character. Mr. Smith responded that what they heard from people in all the public meetings and charrettcs was that downtown has both the opportunity for growth and development and it also has some areas that people who live in Evanston would like to see remain in some ways the way they are, that is, that they should stay pedestrian shopping areas, stay on a Iower scale, and stay at a lower density. He said they heard that predominantly from all the people that participated in the public meetings, from members of the Plan Commission and in emails in response to the drafts of the plans. People said these traditional areas are really where the big effort should be made to preserve and protect some of that scale because they give such a quality and feel to the downtown. 41r. ,Marino added that t.'te Downtown Plan Committee adopted Guiding Principles for Downtown Evanston in the spring of 2007, calling for the creation of traditional, transitional and core areas. Mr. Marino read from the Guiding Principles: -The traditional scale and character of these buildings (referring to the traditional districts) should be conserved through adaptive reuse and fagade improvements. Any new development should be compatible in height, scale and pedestrian orientation. for example ground floor storefronts with glass that activate the street, setbacks for wider sideu•alks and greenery. The new building constructed by Davis Street Land Company at 622 Davis is an example of appropriate re -development in these districts due to its design scale and materials, though a modem design could also have been successful." He continued that it then it made reference to a number of other enclosures within these guiding Ptannng S Developrreru Committee We" Minutes November 25.2008 Page 3 principles. He explained that this was developed alter about a year of the Downtown Plan Committee members discussing what their guiding principles should be and shortly before the consultants got involved. He explained that it was a focus on traditional districts as a balance to the taller, much more intense height and density that you see in the core and also recognizing the importance of the transitional districts, reducing the gradient from the downtown core into the surrounding residential neighborhoods. Chair Moran opened the floor to the public. Mr. Chris Mailing. owner of 1027 Davis Street and Turin Bicycle (at the same address), expressed his great appreciation for the Committee having this meeting to express the concerns of the public. He said he had written a letter about six months ago and had not expected to hear anything more about it. He had heard that according to the process, the downtown should look like a wedding cake, with the tallest buildings in the middle. stepping down as you get further away from the center, which was expressed in the downtown plan documents that he first saw about 6 or 7 months ago on the City's ►website. He said it seemed that given that goal, the west Davis traditional zone now called 1(at the time of the letter it was called 1). is consistent with that concept because that block is surrounded by: the central core to the east, where building heights range up to about 25 stories (Sherman Plaza), traditional zones G one block north and I block south of Davis permit 15 to 18 stories, and zone C to the west permits 6 to 8 stories. He said that unlike the wedding cake phenomena, where you would have the tallest buildings stepping down as you move to the outside of the downtown area, it appears they have a wedding cake w/ a slice taken out. He said he knows that the buildings that have been built downtown are sometimes controversial and that has stirred a lot of passion, in fact he was a party to some of the discussion relative to a 49 story tower that was proposed a few months ago. and his fear is that the traditional zone ! is, maybe along with a couple of other places, being held out to those who would argue against further development as being something to keep them satisfied, while other areas will be developed more fully. He said it is true that in zones G and C. a lot of these developments had already happened, but on the west Davis block it has not already happened and he thinks that is because developers have picked the properties that may not be li►ing up to their full potential. adding that he would do it that way too if he were a developer. He said he believes it has not been as quick to get developed because it has been somewhat more successful than perhaps a block north or south. He thinks that now that new development has not happened on west Davis Street, they are being penalized by having the opportunity in the future taken away from them. He said in a world v6-here we will be addressing global climate chance and where gas prices will return to high levels and go even higher in future decades, there ►ill be less and less auto traffic and green transportation will become a more important issue. Access to train stations will be key and he believes people will return to living in places like Evanston because it is connected to Chicago with good transit systems and that west Davis is the perfect place to have hick rise development because it is located next to the CTA and \tetra stations. Ile said it makes sense from a lot of perspectives that they should be able to go with a denser downtown close to the core. He said he is not suggesting the same height as Sherman Plaza. but in his letter he suggested that zone G should come all the way across and it would then Pt with the wedding cake scenario. He thanked the Committee for listening to him. Mr. Alan zreczny, o►►-ter of 1012 and I014 Davis Street and Audio Consultants (at the same address), said he would not repeat what Chris said, but to address some of the points, he said just because you give it a name, "traditional.- with character, doesn't really make it so. He has been in Evanston since 1967. and has been an owner since 1979 and again in 1986, and west Dais Street was not the most desirable place to be. Over time because of all the businesses that came there, it became what it is now and during this time their property r-aiue has increased. He agreed P-.yy ng 5 Detitloprrel Corrm tree Neetrr; 4! n—ILs Page 4 ,Nowtmber 25. 2008 with Mr. Mailing that the developments started going up around them, not picking off Davis St. bemuse of Davis Street's success. He said if you stand in the middle of Davis St and swing around, you see things way Iarger than what is proposed there, in fact, on their property, right at the property line them is the 10 story building that was mentioned earlier. So, he said, the Plan is asking west Davis to accept this contradiction. He said he found it interesting that when he read the City's initial consultant's proposal, outside the context of the plan, about how over the next 10 years since Evanston has got great transportation it will be able to absorb condos, office space and retail, he thought this would be great for Davis Street but the plan contradicts the underlying recommendations. He said another aspect of this issue is its atTect on not only their property value but their ability to do business. For example, they are ow nerloccupiers who run Audio Consultants out of those 2 stores. A lot of people finance their business through lines of credit. If his bank sees that he has been dow•nzoned, he will possibly bave a smaller asset from which to borrow against. That affects his ability to do business and that is equally as troubling as the decrease in property value. He thanked the Committee. Mr. Scott Steinman of Studio Media at 1030 Davis Stint said Chris and Alan were eloquent and thoughtful at expressing their feelings and what they discussed at their meetings. He said in terms of charm, please stand on the stint and spin around. `ot only will you see height in back, but you will we that their buildings are not really very charrsng. He said, going forward, the traditional district, because of their location, doesn't quite make sense for west Davis. They are close to great transportation. He said he shares a corner with the post office and if there's ever a place in Evanston where you would cant to see density, where there are one way streets and traffic is already controlled very nicely, west Davis Street would be it. They are walking distance to the theaters, great for residents and close to the trains. He added that given the office space concerns in Evanston, they are a great block for offices because of the transportation and traffic flow. He feels it would be a missed opportunity to keep it how it is. He said he runs a recording studio and he can't teach very far out of his locale in some ways. People come to him to do remote things that are interesting, but basically they're coming to the site. He said the businesses on that block could be in other places, but they've stayed there because they've been there a long time. They haven't been bounced out because they're doing okay. The opportunity is to put the density on their block so they save energy, use the public tr Tortation that helps circumvent the parking situation and maybe use that block to build offices and make their location more central for a wider range of uses than traditional. He added that the bakery is great and has been there a long time. tie said all the businesses there are great but there are a lot of other areas in downtown Evanston that art underutilized that also have a lot of traffic, for example. Orrington could use fabulous traffic. tt's almost all vacant and it is right in the heart. He said lte is not sure what the causes are or the plans to work around that but he would hate to see the opportunity missed to use Davis Street to its best ability. He said in his own self interest, it hurts their property values to limit what may happen. adding that though it is hard to say what the market will do in the future, he would not %vans to see a lost oppeaunity for the building owners, especially with the contributions they make through their taxes. which are Ev=,—ion commercial taxes, which are twice the residential multiplier. He concluded that the west Davis Street businesses are making a good contribution and they've been :.here a long time, so he would not want to see them limited in that way. tic thanked the Commute:. ChairMoran said he appreciates the speakers sharing their thoughts with the Committee. He said the process will take some time to k_t through, but the Conunince values the opinions and outlooks presented tonight. He assured them that the Commttee will take them into serious consideration as they deliberate. Ms. Judy Fisk who owns Fit and Frisky pet shop at 1016 Davis St., said this block on Davis Street works really well. She said it is a holistic approach to retail shopping. She supports the Pkxn ,g b Development Committee Meeting M.r xes Page 5 tvovrmt>er 25, 2008 traditional zone and the sensitivity that the consultants have shown in their approach to this block, adding that there is not one vacancy on this block, and that their business waited for space. She said her business is across the street from the veterinarian, but more importantly there are successful businesses that they feed off of and a Iot of pedestrian traffic. She said they asked for no money from the City to set up their brand new start-up retail store which opened in April of 2007. and that they have worked very hard and have invested their life savings in it and have been very successful. She said their trust and confidence in the citizens of Evanston to support a home grown business has really proven to be well founded. She said the parking on this block is wonderful and none of their customers have ever had to maize more than one trip around the block in order to find parking near their store. Like Lemoi's hardware, they sell very heavy items. She carries 40 lb. bags of dog food out herself and doesn't want to go to go too far to do that, nor do her customers want to park in a garage to buy dog food and toys for their dogs. She said the turn around on the street is really important and works. She added that just as important for the retail is that west Davis Street has parking in back of the stores for the employees. She said that she stands in the middle of Davis Street all the time and thanks heaven that they have this wonderful shopping area that is community oriented. Unlike the rest of the folks who have moved in and bought their buildings over time as their businesses have prospered, she would love to buy her building, which has been in the same hands since 1950. Their landlord lives upstairs from their business. She said they pay their share of the taxes, so she is sensitive to the taxes in this area. She concluded that she does not think what is proposed is down zoning for this block and disagrees with the concept that it is, but feels that if this area is allowed to develop, you can say goodbye to small home grown businesses like theirs. She invited everyone on the Committee to come and spend an hour at her store and listen to their customers because they love having a place like this to shop in Evanston and they get that same experience at Audio Consultants, Lemoi's, Bennison's, Turin, the Veterinarian and Hallmark. They are all places where people feel comfortable and they feel really define Evanston to them. She asked the Committee, before they consider up- zoning Davis Street, to think about the tenants who pay their share of tastes, sating that the changes they would be inviting would be a height that is totally inappropriate for it. She added That she thought it would be very helpful for the Committee to spend some time at her shop. Chair Moran thanked everyone for their remarks and assured them that they will be considered. Aid. Bernstein announced that there will be a Special Meeting of the Planning Development Committee on December 4a' at 7:00 p.m. on the Downtoum PIan and it is also scheduled for the regular Planning & Development meeting on Monday, December 8's at 6:30. III. ADJOUR.\ME`T The meeting was adjourned at 8:17 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Bobbie Neuman Planning & Development Committee SPECIAL MEETING Minutes or December 4, 2009 Council Chambers — 7:00 p.m. Evanston Civic Center Aldermen Present: S. Bernstein, A. Hansen_ D. Holmes, L. Jean -Baptiste, E. Moran, C. Wollin, M. Wynne Staff Present: D. Argumedo, K. Cox, S. Guderley, D. Marino, B. Newman, T. Norflect Presiding Official: Alderman Moran DECLARATION OF OUORUNI Chair Moran called the meeting to order at 7.17 pm, a quorum being present. 1P11 Consideration or Plan Commission Recommendation to Adont the Draft Downtown Plan as Revised by the Plan Commission Plan Commission recommendation to approve the Draft Downtown Plan as revised by the Plan Commission Chair Moran explained that the purpose of this nweting is to hear public comment on the Revised Downtown Plan as recommended by the Plan Commission. He said that each alderman has thousands of pages of transcripts and submissions by the public but they are glad to have them and they want to hear the opinions of those present also and that this meeting will complete the citizen comment submitted at public meetings. Aid. Jean -Baptiste added that even though the Committee is scaled down, the meeting is being televised and all members will receive the meeting minutes and will take the comments into consideration. Chair Moran opened the floor to the public. Mr. Fred Tanenbaum said he has lived in Evans:an at Sherman Plaza for one and a half years and lived in a condominium Chicago for 28 years prior to living here. He asked whether the green building standards discussed in two articles in the Pioneer Press newspaper would be enforced in relation to the Fountain Square tower. Ch3ir Moran replied that he could not give an unconditional answer but it is relevant and it is under discussion. Mr. Tanenbaum said the members of the Human Services Committee mid the Committee that gave the approval of the building recommend that it br a green building. and he believes it would behoove all of us to do so. Mr. Tanenbaum said the developer who built Sherman Plaza is also proposing the Fountain Square building. fie said he wants the Commision to know that when Sherman Plaza was sold, the assessment level quoted by the developer was significantly understated and when it was turned over to the condominium board, to finish paying the bills for that year there had to be a reassessment of one and a half months and the following year an increase in assessments by 35% was necessary to cover the budget. Mr. Tane baum said that at the time the condo board took over the building an engineer's study showed 91 deficiencies. Since then, the condo board and management company have been in negotiations with the developer and two thirds of these Rarnrr F. De%Tk>,Went Cornm,nee 4'eetrq M.mxes Page 2 Dec errs- 4. 20M deficiencies have been corrected. He asked whether the City is aware of these deficiencies. saying that you can see paint bleeding through that was put on when the building was built and that the building has had to replace all the carpets, which had no padding under them and were not of the quality the residents would have ltl-ed. and that his balcony was not level so when it rained the water ran from the edge of the balcony towards the patio door, and he had to have it refinished. He thanked the Committee for their time. Chair Moran reminded the citizens to try to keep the focus on the W\%ntowm Plan rather than on a particular development for this meeting.. but added that he appreciates Mr. Tanenbaum's rernarks. Mr. Jim Corirossi introduced himself as President of the Downtown Residents' Association (DRA). an organization of condo unit owners in the downtown area, dedicated to balancing downtown development with residential quality of life and who has participated in the planning process from the start, presenting their view to the Plan Commission on December 7, 2007. He said they have submitted their position on the revised Plan to the Committee. Mr. Corirossi said they view the downtown business district as a prime economic engine for Evanston however they feel the plan does not sufficiently address the requirement for a comprehensive plan with incentives to attract the appropriate mix of local and national businesses needed to sustain a vibrant city center for residents and visitors. He said it appears the main focus of the plan is to determine how many stories you can have in a building and it should focus more on economic development with a detailed plan built upon the strategy of restoration of the Varsity Theater as a performing arts venue, adding that the Century Theaters have proved that an entertainment complex attracts visitors, producing much needed revenue for the City and its businesses. He cited Wilmette's transformation of the old Wilmette Theater into a marquis north shore attraction, saying Evanston should create a similar space here. He said the Civic Center should be located in downtown Evanston because of its parking and public transportation accessibility, saying that the current location is not accessible by public transportation. He said the DRA believes the proposed zoning's maximum height for the north edge is not appropriate and it should be zoned the same as the northwest and the cast edges and zoning should be RD2 with base heights of 66' which is 6 stories with a maximum height with bonuses of I10' or 10 stories, keeping all the edges the same. They believe the area west of Maple Avenue and south of Davis Street currently in the west core should be placed in the south hatch and the cast side of Maple could remain in the west core, and the unclassified area at southeast corner of Davis Street and Chicago Avenue should be designated as part of the east edge. The DRA believes that in the west core (G) and cast core (H) the height differential between the base and maximum height with bonuses should be greater than 3 stories because this minimal height difference will not provide incentive for developers to incorporate public benefit bonuses for the return v-2lue of ;o few stories. They recorr-nend that the base height be reduced to 10 stories, with a maximum bonus height of 165' or IS stories, a 50% increase %%hich they believe will give develops incentive. `fr. Corimssi concluded that these recommendations would result in a skyline moving from 6 to 10 stories on the edges, to 10-15 stories in the east west core districts, and IS to 25 stories in the central core district. The 3 traditional districts would remain 3 and 5 stories. Mr. Corirossi recommended that the plan stays at the 3-5 stories for the traditional area on west Davis Street that was addressed at the November 25'° Special P&D meeting, saying out of all the traditional districm only a few people objected. PLYTtng & Ceres ent Comm.tteee Neetrag Mxkxes rage 3 Decembe- 4. 2008 Mr. Corirossi said it is important to determine which types of projects will require Plan Commission and public review. The DRA agrees with the process for new developments which states that Plan Commission and public review must be required for any projects in the core district that exceed a height of 110' or more. They di&w= that there arc a limited number of opportunities for new development in downtown. N%'irh the as of right ability to build higher based on revised zoning restrictions, current property ow nm may be have incentive to sell or tear down existing buildings to create higher density developments, for example, the people who spoke at the special meeting November 25'h. Mr. Corirossi said the DRA commends the Plan Commission on the public benefit bonus structure. The bonuses, especially for green roof and LEED certified designs, contribute to the quality of life in downtown and benefit all Evanston rt:sideats and visitors. The DRA believes that regarding reconfiguring some privvely owned parking lots (such as the one near the Women's Club) into green spaces, the)- rmo= nend adding some city owned Iots to the list, such as the lot on Oak between Davis and Ch=h. It would be an easy conversion because the city already owns this land, otherwise the city would either have to buy it or convince the owner to convert their property to parks. The DRA belirves the suggested park to the west of the YMCA along Grove is an inappropriate choice for a park because the alley is an access route to and from the YMCA parking lot on the south and a haz`d for children. They feel, at best it is an enhancement for the residents of the building to the a•m They asked for more specific plans to resituate Oldberg Park and reconfigure Orrington into CL-•k. They also believe the plan should specify requirements for independent light, wind and transportation studies for major new developments and that the transportation studies should include all impacted areas such as Sheridan Rd., Ridge, Howard, Chicago Avenue =)d Clark. They believe there is adequate parking but residential as well as guest parking should be rewired and that public parking will be enhanced by the plan's recommendation to put parking und&r green open spaces. Mr. Coriro-rsi concluded that the DRA understands the City must address a number of issues and satisfy a variety of constituencies as it envisions a vibrant and viable downtown, however they feel that as residents of the downtown, their voices are especially relevant and hope that their comments, concerns, and recommendations will play a key role in the Committee's deliberations. He thanked the Committee for their time. Chair Moran th—A-ed him for his comments. Mr. Reed Bcidler. a property owner on the 1000 blixk- of Davis Streit for more than 25 years, said he is familiar with the dramatic changes in Eva--tston over the yeims,. but he said lie could not have foreseen what would happen 10 years ago. nor can he fortece 10 years hence. He commended the hard work that has gone into the plan. As someone who has operated in this particular block in Evanston, he questions its design'tion as a traditional zone and the recommended as of right restrictions of height and dens;-.}•. He has met with his neighbors and property owners in the area and his opinion is that W e should build a .fable downtown core that has enough mass and activity to support both residences well as bLismesscs. He said to zone a block traditional that butts up against the major transit si cienis and his 5-10 story buildings all around it and to not allow it to develop in the futur:. s.-r.:s illogical. He does not have nor does he know of any of his neigbors ►►-ho have inimcdi_:: plus to expan bbut it doesn't feel right to him. He said that to him, old and run down is not tn_.: tional, explaining that his building is a former auto repair store and the one across the meet is a former bowling alley that's been converted to a retail store, explaining that he would char.-terize the block as being old and worn as opposed to traditional and charming. Rynng S Dme;opment Committee Meeting Urues Page 4 Deterrber 4, 2004 ,Mr. Beidler concluded that with the height of the buildings around it and the transportation and parking, it does not seem right to try to make it a traditional gateway to Evanston. He proposed that zoning should be more generic and then allow the various agencies to interact with the developer, as opposed to trying to carve out specific areas and trying to tell them how we think they should look. Chair Moran thanked him. Mr. Jeff Smith of 2724 Harrison, said he is speaking as an individual, though he said, his points arc shared with many people. He said there had been no public comment until a few weeks ago on the downtown plan as it has evolved since December, 2007. The report to this committee states that there were 15 Plan Commission meetings but the last 12 that were held had no public comment on the downtown plan. 7'ltere were 9 focus groups that met before the consultants formulated the plan but none consisted of average existing Evanston residents who use and shop downtown except one focus group with new downtown residents, and there were none with downtown workers or commuters. He said to the extent that downtown was to be everyone's neighborhood, it seems an omission that everyone was not a subject of focus. Considering that workers and people who come downtown are key to any smart growth planning, it seems an omission not to include those who come downtown every day where they come from, how they get there, what methods of transportation they use, how long does it tastes them and why do or don't they use this form of transportation. He said he provided to the Plan Commission in October, at the request of a number of residents, his attempted synopsis of the plan, pointing out the good things as well as some omissions and inconsistencies. He said that in May of 2008 some of his comments were addressed such as green building, preservation and adaptive re-usc, and incentives were added. He said the words minority, African American and gentrification don't appear in the plan and he thinks that who moves and shops there reflects Evanston's character. He said the community has the right if not the obligation to determine what type of town it wants to be and Evanston takes pride in its open mindedness, tolerance and very positive virtues, which he would like to sec mentioned. Mr. Smith continued that there is insufficient attention to uses in the plan, adding that traditional planning focuses on uses. lie said form based zoning has some potential drawbacks in that it is mainly setting the form of the building and coupled with increasing base heights, you are letting the market decide what goes there, rather than saying where you want for example, auto shops, bowling alleys and residences. Mr. Smith said we've been promised revenues by all this development but what we arc seeing are a lot of holes in the ground on which nothing is being built for years at a time and fiscal holes in the ground in which the American taxpayer is being asked to shovel money. lie said it is therefore important to look at what we are incentivizing and how because when you change zoning. you change the game. The success of a bonus plan depends on where the base zoning is set and how the bonuses are measured. He believes this plan does a very good job of setting forth criteria for bonuses, however it is critical to not give away the store in the base zoning and this plan has a lot of massive up zoning. The base height zoning recommendations are still the equivalent of granting an enormous site allowance of density and mass to much of downtown beyond that which currently exists without the city getting any reciprocal public benefit. The plan does freeze the base height of the three most traditional areas but it also allows them to be exceeded through bonuses. Iic disagrees that having a low rise traditional type of area necessarily means a lack of economic development. noting that if you go to Central Street from Greenbay all the way to Crawford you will see in the old, traditional and established storefronts. not one vacancy. lie said the only vacancies that he is aware of currently in the buildings that have been developed in the past few years because the rents are too high and, he said, the same is true of downtown Chicago, pointing out that there is not necessarily a correspondence between putting a lot of downtown residents stacked on top of each other and the vibrancy of retail. He said it is a delicate balance between what is built, who is shopping there and who is coming in and out. He concluded that the additional bonus grants of height and mass Rwrvng & Do e0cr-ort Committee Meetng M rx.res Page 5 DetemtW 3. X08 in the plan would provide an incentive to densify downtown much ftuthcr still and we need to look at the consequences of that. He said citizen testimony was strongly against it. He said Barb Rackley did a good job of assembling a spreadsheet with about a thousand citizen comments showing what the people have asked for, and there are not many who want another 200 units a year downtown- He believes if a 218 unit tower being built is the result of this plan's approval, there would be a gross disconnect between government and those who it is supposed to serve. He said he does not have a problem with heights being increased in many parts of downtown. maybe many parts, but it shouldn't be everywhere and there should be a mechanism in place to prevent it. Currently the research park is limited to an approximate 65' height, but the plan allows an approximate 165' base height, a 100' increase for nothing, which can be increase to 275'. This includes the Copycat triangle which he said has no reason to be that tall. He said that the consultants have said that some of the buildings currently allowed in downtowm have been a result of a broken process, but the plan seems to say that what many consider a bad process should dictate what then comes in, and planning should do the opposite of that. Mr. Smith said that what has been done with the Fountain Square block in the final plan is a compromise that may please no one and the Plan Commission has put a lot of hard work into that block. He believes that so much time elapsed bctween citizen comment and the original presentation of the plant that when the Plan Commission finally addressed it there had been a loss of sight. He said there was so much focus on that block that perhaps the rest of downtown was ignored. He said that with the current plan, instead of a slim tower on an otherwise traditional block, you could end up with a mass spanning the entire block. yet without distinctiveness or the icon status that the Klutznik Anderson team sought to present_ He would allow additional height above the 25 story limit if the fagade of the existing 708 Church building was preserved or a true plaza replaced the fountain square building, but this plan does not mandate that and by exempting the 708 Church block from the plan. we could end up with the worst of both worlds. He said there has been some attempt to segregate those two discussions, but the 708 Church building is the gorilla in the room and you can't talk about the downtown without talking about it. Mr. Smith said there are more creative things to consider if they are to reconfigure the street so it can be usable by the public without closing the key intersection in downtown. He said a pocket park ceases to be pleasant and is not used if it's windy, dark and surrounded by tall buildings. advising those present to go to downtown Chicago in areas where 25 story buildings are and see the empty benches and what is and is not working. He knows the consultants have made a yeoman's effort to make things attractive but they sometimes translate differently in reality. Mr. Smith aerees with the DRA that there are not only a few development opportunities downtown, explaining that developers snake money becaus! they we opportunities planners don't see, for example. 1890 Maple. No one could have foreseen that someone would take a 5 year old building. tear it down and put up 14 stories of residences. He feels it is a mistake to rely on a representation by a planner stating these are the only opportunities, repeating that zoning changes the game: suddenly what was not feasible becomes feasible_ He said that unlike the Central Street plan. wh:re there was a lot of post -approval input by the public, that is to say the Planning &t Development Committee and City Council approved it in principal and then it went back to the Plan Commission for more public input during the zoning process, which is legally required, here the zoning recommendations were already very specific and if this Council just approved the plan as is, citizens and property owners will be hearing from the Plan Commission that their hands are tied, the Council approved it, and all we can do is implement it. Therefore, he said, it is important to get it right now. Mr. Smith said that if he were on this committee he would not vote to approve and send back to the Plan Commission as is, the Downtown Plan, as much as there is to like about it and despite all the hand work that has gone into it. He said he would do three things: have some focus groups or Pa-nrq b Dc�ecame . Comm :tee Meer ng M:rues Page 6 December 4. 2CG8 similar process so people who haven't been heard from could be heard, specifically residents who use downtown. people who commute there and Evanstonians and others who drive to or through downtown. holding citizen comment open for more detailed written responses; he would scale back the base heights, especially in the research park and areas that should be truly transitional so they don't Ioom over residential neighborhoods or churches; and finally he would preserve basic sense of permitted uses in at least some identified areas. He said if we want to have recreation. a bowling alley or a performing arts center, it is not going to happen organically unless some area is set aside for it. He would preserve some of that sense so the city can guide downtown Evanston towards the needs and desires identified, to preserve a downtown for Evanston as everybody's neighborhood, for whom we plan. Chair \loran thanked him. \ir. Scott Steinman, a building owner on West Davis Strut, said regarding the traditional district issue there that he and the other building owners waut to be treated fairly in whatever opportunities downtown might represent in the future and not be limited by the traditional restrictions. He said the plan seems reactionary rather than visionary, since he had seen a lot of development before the plan. He encouraged that the plan be for downtown but it seems to him that their block is being tossed out as a traditional bone while other places arc being built up. He said Main Street and Central Street are traditional shopping areas that are worth maintaining. He feels that west Davis is a terrific opportunity because of its proximity to the post office and transportation, for density and energy conservation. He does not believe development would take away their storefronts, citing the Optima building on Davis having some great unique home grown businesses in its retail space and said there is no reason that wouldn't be able to exist in the future for west Davis Street as well. He agrees with Ats`tio Consultants, whose business is also in its building, that the zoning limit could limit the building value, which would affect the future and viability of their businesses adversely, because their buildings can be used to help capitalize their businesses. He said the affect of the current development, in relation to its affect on the tax base makes it difficult to keep up with the rate that their tare; are increasing. Mr. Steinman concluded that he is requesting that the Committee not approve the west Davis Street block as a traditional area because it would bury them and make them a slice out of the development, enclosing them in an area of tall buildings. He added that he walks to work on Davis Street, which he feels is part of downtown. He also recommended regarding the tax base, if they do decide that its better that west Davis stays a traditional designation. please consider that taxing them traditionally, for example. like it was in the 1950's. ChairMoran thanked him. Mr. Jonathan Perman, Executive Director of the Ev=;:on Chamber of Commerce, commended on behalf of the Chamber of Commerce, the Plan Cor=ission, staff and citizens who participated over the last three years on their hard work and comm:::nent to the downtown. saying it is a great success today and that the development policies have had a profound affect on the tax base. He said the proposed plan is only a plan, intended to f+e flexible enough to change as market conditions change and that when the formation of the plan began, the economic conditions were different than they are now. which no one could have predicted. Mr. Perman said that similar to Evanston's 1993 Zonina Ordinance that was part of a :amulus package at a time when there was little private investment in Evanston. we need to consider whether ►►e are providing enough stimuli for commercial development to flourish in the current poor economic conditions. He said that less than a month ago Council accepted the Evanston Climate Action Plan which calls for support of mixed use, green, high performing, transi: oriented development that creates density, walkable communities connected to train lines and reduces the need for driving and burning fossil fuels. The Chamber of Commerce supports matching the downtowm plan with these values, enabling strong opportunities for transit oriented development, especially those streets that are most closely linked with the CTA and Metra stati%ins and lower parking requirements. He believes that overall the plan is a good one. It empLasizes land use principles that have worked R2rr,.ng & f}°tiaxr amm rev cetng fJruteS Page 7 Dece-rr3er 4. 2OW and recognizes the future challenges we face as we compete for jobs, business and consumer spending. He said that because a number of current trends used to formulate the plan are no longer valid, the Council needs to err heavily on the side of opportunity and incentive to reach the plan's goals. Because this neighborhood plan, unlike most others, recommends metrics in which the City can evaluate itself once the plan is in place, we should take those milestones very seriously and pursue optimizing economic development. Mr. Perman said he believes form based zoning is an excellent direction as it gives smaller. as of right projects the right to be expedited with staff approval, rather than the often arduous trip through the Plan Commission. Mr. Perman concluded that some of the limitations on development outside the core district may have the unintended affect of diminishing property values. putting the mi burden on all of the other Evanston tax payers. He asked that the Committee consider the unique perspective of building owners who both operate and own businesses in their buildings, and often have a wide vision. He said that when the planning process began. Evanston's retail sales tax revenue was growing at approximately 5-61'a, whereas now it is stagnant and unemployment was 4% and is now about 6°;. Regardless. many merchants desire the creation of new space around them and they want space options for themselves. Ile said new does not necessarily imply national chains or the end of independent stores and restaurants: the ones we love here in Evanston also need new space options to replace their wom buildings. ,fir. Perman said that in a Chamber study released earlier this year, they prove that new mixed use residential and commercial development result in as many independent businesses moving into them as national chains. Mr. Perman said With respect to the central core district, not to be afraid of height alone. If Evanston is to have a landmark building at its core, the Fountain Square block is widely agreed to be that place. He said round the block there arc two commercial mixed used structures and one residential mixed use structure that range in height from 240 to 275'. A new, architecturally significant building that would stand out from the existing three structures is a sensible idea that local plan commissioners, architects and urban experts agree upon and it may be needed as a stimulus, if we can bring a balance between what is offered and the right public benefits that can accrue back to the community. Chair Moran thanked him. Ms. Jeanne Lindwall of 625 Library Place commended the Plan Commission for greatly improving the balance and tone of the plan document since the public comment closed, but said she is troubled by the process of how the plan was developed. She feels we missed an opportunity to have a constructive dialogue how to move downtown development beyond the condo towers to 3 land use mix that diversifies our commercial base and attracts jobs that will sustain our quality of life and take the downtown to the next level. The history of the downtown over the last 50 years shows that there have been critical times, for instance, when Old Orchard opened, and downtown's role as a major shopping center disappeared and we recreated ourselves as an office center headquarter city, for American Hospital Supply and Washington National and others. We reim ented downtown again with the theaters and the mixed use development over the last 20 years. She said she worked with the Plan Commission on the 19S9 plan and at that time the downtown was struggling with vacant stores. There was discussion with citizens about what the downtown should be. But she said this time many people have been frustrated with the process, in favor of the notion that there are certain parts of dow mown that establish the character, identity and ima_e of Evanston as a commercial center, tho-sc that were zoned D2 in the 1993 ordinance including the Fountain Square block and west Davis Street, and much of Sherman Avenue, are now called the traditional areas. She said that with zoning, even in the traditional areas, we u~ill continue to see new development. and we should. She said the Chandler and Davis Land Company buildings are prime examples of the kind of new development that can fit in Pi,rnrgj & De&oprrert Comrr sec Meeting M,nures r age 8 Der-emoer 4. 2008 within the existing zoning regulations and that the traditional zoning recommendations are a little more generous than the current zoning is, so she does not think the property owners on west Davis Street need to be concerned about their loss of property values because it is similar to what is in place now. She said that transit oriented development (TOD) is density within a quarter mile walk of a transit station, which downtown Evanston has always been, and that from her perspective, having the residents a little further away and the commercial development right at the core is probably more attractive for the future, especially if you keep having the residential parking structures disrupting the pedestrian flow, which is one of her objections to the Klutznik proposal on the Fountain Square block because it will break up the retail frontage on Orrrington. Nts. Lindwall said she agrees that we need to have incentives to encourage commercial development when the economy turns around and we ought to be considering what kind of development we should be looking for. She talked to many people who participated in the downtown planning process who were frustrated that they did not feel their voices were heard. She said that as she has been out gathering signatures for her petition to run for :Mayor, nothing gets a signature faster than knowing she is working in opposition to the tower. \fir. Lindwall said she has been tracking what Sherman Plaza, Church Street Plaza (strictly office, 7 stories), and Park: Evanston (Whole Foods & rental apartments) are yielding in terms of property taxes and she has found that comparing 2006 to 2007, for Church Street Plaza the City's sham of the lever is lower than last year: S332,146 in 2006 and S310,870 for 2007; for Park Evanston, S225,7S5 in 2006 and S208,297 in 2007; Church Street Station, approximately S156,000 in 2006 S159,306 in 2007. She also said the length of time it takes to develop from the time it stops paying its former taxes, is to be considered, for example. Sherman Plaza, now that it iss completed, is generating S2.7 million, but for 2007 it was S318.000. and it took 6 years, including S10,000 in 2003. to get to this point. She concluded that the future of downtown and the Test of Evanston are tied together and balance and considering its image arc important. She said all of Evanston's property values have gone up. .Md. Jean -Baptiste asked Ms. Lindwall what conclusion she is reaching regarding re- development. as it sounds as though she is suggesting that we really didn't achieve significant progress in terms of tax revenue by building condos downtown. his. Lindwall explained that when you enpce in new development row must look at cost as well as benefits and while growing your tax base. encouraging new development is an important function of any community, but it is unrealistic to assume that building many condo towers in the downtown will tower people's taxes. It does reduce the tar rate because you have a bigger base to divide the tax. levy by, but if the value of the condos is increasing property values in the surrounding area, you may not have had as big a gain as you were expecting. It begs the question of who should be the lead voice and whether it should it be residents and how much is too much and how big is ikxi bit. She said Church St_ Station, which is a substantial building, is yielding S160,000. his. Lindwall said when the police and fire pension issue had just come up she calculated that ra reduce the deficit by S10 millionlyear, it would take twenty 40-story towers, all finished, and forte 20•story towers, which puts in perspective the question of what kind of a downtown we are striving to build. Chair Moran thanked her. Ms. Judy Fiske of 2319 Sherman Avenue said she has lived there for many years and that she sold real estate for 20 years and worked with developers, especially on historic preservation projects in Evanston and Chicago. She now owns and operates a retail pet store with 7,000 customers. She said she knows almost all of them and where and why they shop in downtown Ram:nc & De%ecorrent Cyr- %WtYng mintAes page 4 Decemrke -. ZCi O Evanston and what they like and don't like. Her landlord, who owns the largest parcel on the south side of Davis between Oak and Maple has told her he has no interest in developing his property. She said she supports the current downtown plan: specific building heights, green space and environr=tally friendly building techniques and traditional zoning districts, how-evrr there is cause for her concern in the document because the city is less able to respond ro citizens' concerns as development will occur, and will lase control over what truly makes Evanston unique: a diversified balance of retail, office and residential that characterizes downtown and insulates it from the extremes of market fluctuations. During the planning process. she said she and others talked about the need for office space. which draws thousands to our restaurants and retail shops and they talked about the need to protect traditional areas that provide reliable sales tax revenue, one way traffic patterns, that the wedding cake concept is obsolete and agar there is overwhelming opposition to an iconic tower. They have talked about how streamlining the process makes it Iess likely that citizens will have a true voice as their city center changes and how the downtowns condo owners might see towers rise all around them, which is not what they and others went. She feels that these concerns warrant serious public discussion and that the upcoming elc,,-tion cycle is an appropriate time to defer decision until the new council is seated, and allow the city to take the time to get this right. Chair Moran thanked her. Mr. Mike Vascilko of 2728 Reese Avenue, a resident for almost 20 years, said he believes this plan has been strongly influenced by the developers of the 708 Church Street proposed tower. He said it reflects a subtle identification of what wag once called the central core block at the 708 Church St. address which is now called "To Be Determined." He believes the representation is misleading sad that the community has been calling out for the cloud over this block to be removed. Mr. VasiIko suggested that a focus group be held to discuss Northwestern University's thoughts and the downtowns plan together, since they border a considerable amount of the northeast edge. Chair Moran thanked him for his comments. Ms. Barbars Janes of 80: Colfax said much is made in the introduction of the pI_a about the public process and public input, but she does nxx believe the consultants listened to the people. She said in the charrettes and the Parasol room, the consensus was that the citizens don't want a lot of tall btzidings in downtown Evanston, yet when the plan was finished, their were many proposals of places to have tall buildings in mane different locations downtown. She said that the plan has net considered what we want our do wmtown to be like and that maybe we need a consultant to consider this. She said tlse plan pwccss seemed to be a justification -or having a tower at 70S Church, since there was so much to do about that issue, but a plan should be a vision and we need to ask how we can make downtown as economically viable as pcsssible while maintaini= a character that the citizens want. She said she had never been on the second floor of 708 Churci _nd she was stunned when she saw 40 office doors, with 1 to 4 inner offikes inside of each. with-000-600 people per day, going in and out, visiting their therapists. chiropractors, dentists, do ,ors, massage therapists and social workers. She observed that these a= the people who supper: the retail sores, but the plan seerns to treat economic development liie that as an afterthought, and that it is w hat you get in ti:c bonuses. She seems the plan sue' ^ns to be a justification for condos, and we'll throw in soma retail because we need something mieresting at the street level. She said the recommended hciehts along Emerson, since these bLuldings have been approsrd to be built. are dictating what we say we want at the north end of _owls, which seems backwards. She aid she goes to Oak Pa.-l.: every week and she is constantly =-hazed when she walks t�raugh downtown Oak Park to the high school, that she can see the sun =nd there are many viable shops and it is nicely done with maps and things. She wonders why we do not have enough li& and why we have wind tunnels. P�TT%r g b Developmerc Co nm t!ee Meeting M.mutes page to Dcember 3. 2008 Ms. Janes continued regarding height bonuses. that the accent seems to be on height, not on what is best for Evanston because developers are offered height bonuses if they are gold or platinum LEED certified. She believes with the information the Council has received about sustainability, they should require every new building in Evanston to achieve the highest level of energy efficiency and sustainability possible, though not necessarily require LEER certification. especially if Evanston is to be a lighthouse community, saying it might cost more initially, but it will save the owner and the planet in the long run. She said Evanston can and should be a lighthouse in the area of sustainability. starting here and now. If height bonuses are allowed, there need to be much tighter penalties for not achieving what has been proposed. She asked the Committee how many times have people come to them with promises that they later discover they can't meet, saying that once a building is built, we are stuck with it. She suggested that the good faith money described in the plats should be large enough that a developer cannot afford to forfeit it. We would still have to hope the building would be built as planned, but bonuses are a gift to a developer and the City should get much in return. Ms. Jane does not think affordable housing bonuses should be given for anything but on site affordable housing. She has seen many cavalier developers donate money to get what they want. They may not want affordable units in their buildings, but we don't want tall buildings. if developers want something, they should give something substantial in return. She also said there needs to be an ordinance, clearly explaining the process and assuring that the units go to deserving people. Regarding bonuses. Ms. Janes said she believes we need more parks but does not see the point of open space bonuses. We could end up with little pocket parks that are not useful to anyone and that bonus should be deleted. Ms. Janes suggests that historic preservation. the only useful bonus, should be for the actual building that is being preserved, explaining that it is very easy for developers to donate money to a fund, but it should be concrete end right at the site. Regarding the streetscape bonus, it is in the developer's best interest to beautify the streetscape surrounding that building and so we should not have to give anything away. Regarding public places, she wondered how public they would be. The %-ay it is described is that right on the premises there is a public space. She wondered if the residents of a building really want her to hang out in their yard because it's a public space. She said she would change assistance to 5% from the proposed IM16 and that no plan requiring city money should get any bonuses. She said we have the smarts and ability to solve our problems if we work together in the spirit of what is best for our city and that the dow-ntow-n plan is a start but them is a long war to go before it is ready to be implemented for the benefit of the citizens of Evanston. Chair Moran thanked her. Mr. Glenn Gray of S07 Davis Street, thanked the Council for their service to the community. He said he is concerned that some members of the Committee would like to vote for a 38 story downtown core district that is not supported by this community. He reminded the Committee of a riveting on Tuesday. March 27, 2007 where they were presented a redesign of Fountain Square cascading into two restaurants and new open spaces including historically preserved buildings and a 50 story mons::osity. A bait and switch. he said that was the first time any one had heard of a 50 story building_ He said he attended several of the chsrrettes where Evanston citizens expressed their opposition to more skyscrapers in Evanston. The next time they heard about skyscrapers was when some supposedly in3rpendent consultants recommended that a certain block should be hither than any other block. which happened to be the same block as Fountain Square. He said the only other support for Lahr tower came from inappropriate comments by Mr. Roods, who he believes is biased which does not instill confidence that the process is fair and absent of undue influence. He reminded the Committee of the hundreds of people who spoke out against the tower and the thousands of lawn sips displayed. He said he was disappointed in the vote to table the issue, and that the extended height will not solve the City's financial problems. Pfamng 6 Ckveiopmerx Comm:uee r.'ee nq N rx tee ,'age I t December 4, 2008 but it will cause the citizens to lose faith in the Aldermen. He asked them to vote to eliminate the downtown core. Chair Moran thanked him. Mr. Michael Poulos of 1416 Hinman. a 3'd generation downtown Evanston resident and business owner, said a great deal of work has gone into the plan and there are a number of great ideas but he sees it ultimately as a clamor for more high rises, which comes from the developers, not from the people. He said we must consider what kind of town we want to be and he thinks we want mid rise buildings that serve a wide variety of purposes. He said it appears almost as if economic development is fueled by construction. He has made the observation that what has been responsible for revitalizing downtown Evanston, has been liquor. When he was young, it was a vibrant downtown: there were headquarters of many multi -national companies and organizations and his father built the Red Knight Inn and the North Shore Hotel, which was nationally known, but you couldn't bring people into Evanston for anything other than business. We lost our businesses due to bad judgments. high taxes and other reasons unknown. Eventually we developed a restaurant industry which created a more vibrant downtown, but we didn't need high rises to do this, because the quality of our downtown is not based on the height of our buildings, but on the good solid businesses inside of them. He said we have made a lot of mistakes over time, for instance, he represented a home improvement business that wanted to move into downtown Evanston and because of the zoning nightmare they had to go through at the time, which has been improved since then, they gave up and left. He said we have remedied many of our problems and are bringing businesses into Evanston but we don't need buildings that are 30- 40 stories high to do that It is his opinion that we should be limiting any kind of highrise development to west of the CTA tracks and even at that point. they should be limited to about 20 stories. He said one issue about density is that you may have a 2.5 or 10 story building. you have a mix of heights which do not cause a canyon downtown feel. but he does not see how we sill be able to regulate that if we just start Ietting highrises get built because if you build one on one third of a block then why can't you build one on the next third and the next third and the next thing you know the whole block is high rises and then they will be built across the street. It is a slippery slope and the only %-ay to stop it is to just say no. We have to put an end to the tall building and stick to a more modest height that keeps our community what it is. Then we need to look at how we can attract businesses into Evanston that will really provide a benefit, just as we did with regard to restaurants. Mr. Poulos said we talk about how t. rc condos will bring in more revenue, but there are only a certain amount of condo dollars chasing condos in Evanston. If we build more condos, we adversely affect the value of the ones that are already here. He suggested that there is not a dollar for dollar ratio: if you build another million dollars of condos you get another million dollars of real estate valuation. it depresses values elsewhere in the town and it reduces overall. Maybe we get some tax benefit, but not as much as people think. He feels that argument must be reconsidered. He agrees about 70S Church Street 1•ring designed to make it possible to put up a structur. that has evoked so much public oppositlQn and just find another way to get it done. tic hopes that through deliberations the Committee will not cane out a special block for an extra high building and believes that would be a serious mistake. He believes the public benefits required for bonuses should just be written into the Law as required for all buildings: if a green building is a good thing, then amend the building code so that all buildings must be green. He does not see why we should let developers build a higher one if their building is green. If affordable housing is a good thing, then determine the level of affordable housing that should be required. and simply require it. Pt rnn9 E. De t oomert Committee : mug Minutes Page 12 Dmember 4. 2CC8 Mr. Poulos said regarding public transit that although he realizes that is the politically correct view of the world today, people need their cars. He said if we want to build a town that is reliant on the CTA and Metra, remember that not more than a few months ago CTA said they will have to cut back on service. The reality is people tend to take public transit only if it is very convenient. If they want to go to Old Orchard to shop. public transportation won't do it: this is a nation that drives. He said if we put more density in downtown we will clog our roads, as even now, at rush hour it is crowded. He said it is even worse a few towns west and recommends we try to keep it that way, by keeping density down. Mr. Poulos concluded that we have a good thing going here. He said "Let's not kill the goose that laid the golden egg. Let's just try to polish up that golden egg and make it better." Chair Moran thanked him Mr. Andrew McGonigle, of 2526 Princeton and a 19 year resident who works at Northwestern University, commended the work of the consultants and the PIan Commission. He said he has attended 98% of the meetings and has seen tremendous input and a tremendous effort to accommodate everyone. He said at the presentation of the plan on October 15. 2008 there were certain omissions in the plan regarding the Downtown 11 area relating to the research park and that stab promised to work with the consultants to make sure the uses outlined in the current research park were maintained within that zone. He also said regarding the RDI area, which is the area on either side of Orrington where it abuts Clark St.. that the Orrington Hotel is downzoned in the current document by approximately I to 1.5 floors. This concerns him and the other building around the Burger King is smaller than currently exists. He asked that the Committee look at including it to the current level that it is zoned at now. Chair Moran thanked him. Ms. Chris Westerberg of 525 Grove said she was impressed at how the new plan has tried to provide for a balance in the need for economic opportunities as well as the need to address and respect the physical scale that is very special to Evanston, which is not easy. While there are many things that people will want to change, she thinks the plan has taken the task on responsibly and has done a good job. She said her concern is about preserving context, particularly in transitional zones. She is a resident of the cast edge and opposed the 18 story Optima development proposed for 1515 Chicago Ave. She said she is encouraged that the plan recognized that height and density need to decrease in the edge zones as they transition from the core to the residential areas, however the height limits proposed vary so they are set at 8 stories with benefits but at the north and northwest edges they're set at 15 and 10 respectively and at the cast edge they are set at 10 stories. She said this inconsistency does not snake a lot of sense to some of those who have followed the planning process. She said the east edge in particular transitions quickly to single family homes as well as the lake front. There is an existing context of 8 story buildings. which would seem to argue for a limit of 8 stories here. She believes the plan should be revised with guidelines that consistently provide for more open space and light and less density as the transition is made and that it is crucial in preserving the character, scale and context that make Evanston a unique community and a worthwhile investment, even in difficult economic times. Chair \loran thanked her for her comments. Ms. Holly Reyztolds of 204 Davis Street said the transitional areas play an extremely important role and it seems logical that they all be the saute. She said Emerson Street might be an exception but 15 stories are well higher than is appropriate or necessary there. On the east, she doesn't understand why it has been made higher than the west and the south and it seems to her incongruous and unnecessary. She said if 500 Davis has played a part in that, it is widely accepted today as a mistake and a direction we don't want to go. She said the plan has provided for lots of development and she finds no compelling reason why we need greater height in the Plzy nrg 6 Dew;opmert Comm _ee Meetjru3 %',,ues Page 13 Oece-rr5er 4, 7008 eastern transitional zone and it seems that having the transitional zones the same on every side allows them to serve their purpose, which is important. Ms. Reynolds concluded that we have heard a lot of very thoughtful and interesting comments about ways to keep the city something that we all love, other than brute height, which is the thing communities oven fall back- on. She said the commentary shows that people have given a Iot of thought to this, as she knows the Committee and the Plan Commission have, and it is important we incorporate these thoughts into the plan. She said Evanston has things that communities all over this country are striving to achieve. She said we have it and we've had it for a long time and we have it to lose and she believes we ought to keep that well in mind as we design this plan. Chair %loran thanked everyone for coming to the meeting, He said the Committee is impressed with everyone's commitment by coming tonight and the many other nights there have been hearings on this plan. lie said they Appreciate their input and passion and they look forward to the next meetings to discuss, debate and hopefully decide on a new downtown plan. ADJOURNMENT The meeting was adjourned at 9:17 p.m. Respt+etfully submitted. Bobbie Newman REVISED Planning & Development Committee Minutes of December 8, 2008 Council Chambers — 6:30 — 8:20 p.m. Evanston Civic Center Aldermen Present: S. Bernstein, A. Hansen, D. Holmes, L. Jean -Baptiste, E. Moran, R. Rainey, E. Tisdahl, C. Woilin, M. Wynne Staff Present: D. Argumedo, K. Cox, S. Guderley, D. Marino, B. Newman, T. Norfleet Presiding Official: Alderman Moran DECLARATION OF OUORUM Chair Moran called the meeting to order at 7:17 p.m., a Quorum being present. APPROVAL OF NOVEMBER 24, 2008 MEETING MINUTES The Committee voted unanimously to approve the November 24, 2008 meeting minutes. ITEMS FOR CONSIDERATION (I'1) Ordinance 130-0-0R Granting n Special Use for a Muld-Family Residential and Commercial Mixed -Use Planned Develonment with Enclosed Accessory Parking ).nested at 631-749 Chicago Avenue in the Cla Commercial ;nixed Ilse Zoning District (Evanston DevColAllLi Development) Consideration of a Plan Commission recommendation of approval for a Special Use In the form of a Planned Development at 631-749 Chicago Avenue. Request to allow suspension of City Council rules to introduce and adopt ordinance on 12-8-08. Chair Moran inuWuced fir. Steve Ross, who presented the plan. He said he would be brief in consideration of the Committee's time constraints, but not to undermine the importance of the project. He said his team was also present. Mr. Ross presented slides showing the Evanston Devco project, a mixed used transit oriented rental development at Chicago and Kedzie containing 214 renrsl units in 5-story buildings with 19 live -work units, 8.400 sq. ft. of retail. 312 concealed parking s-,,-%3ces and an open space public plaza on the corner. The project is as of right, and entirely complL=1 with the underlying zoning except for the fact that they have more than 24 units. Mr. Ross sa:3 the development being presented is the result of many community meetings which provided insight, guidance and assistance with staff and Ald. Wynne in the summer of 2007. Design Evam-:,on on February 19. 2008. a design workshop with the neighbors at the Tesca office to design thz open space public plaza in March of 2008, a pre -application conference with SPAARC in %larch of 200S, the Evanston's Climate action Plan meeting on May 4. 2008 at Steve Perkins' requccst, and a meeting with neighbors at a Yd Ward Town Hall meeting also in Slay of 200S. He said they have also received input by email and they keep the community updated at their :%ebsite. liveatchicagoandkedzie.com. He said they also met with the Plan Commission in Auust and October. He showed "before" photos of the 2 acre site, stating that the current tares fc�_the 3 parcels total S150,000. According to Subaru, the prior occupant, they paid S1.3 million in sales tax in 2007 which will discontinue w7th their move to Skokie. Mr. Ross showed photos of existing conditions and a site plan rendering of the plaza. live -work units and the concealed parking area, explaining that they are setting back the V floor 5' from the right of Plarn ng & Detieiopxrent Comm -ace Meet ng ,rases Page 2 of 14 December 8. 2008 way line on Chicago Avenue, all the floors above will be set back 10', the sidewalk will be widened to 17'6" from 7'6", and the plaza is to be built in accordance with the Chicago Avenue Strectscape Plan. He estimates S950,000 is to be paid in real estate taxes. The elevation showed 214 units, downsized from the originally proposed 280 units as the result of feedback from neighbors. He thanked the Plan Commission for their helpful suggestions on how to open the front entranceway, highlight the residential lobbies and create more open courtyards. He also thanked Aid. Wynne for her guidance. Mr. Ross concluded that the public benefits the development brings are a new public plaza for the neighborhood with green open space, high quality design materials, architecture which complements the charm of the surrounding neighborhoods, concealed and underground parking and significant setbacks from Chicago Avenue. He pointed out that there will be no zoning variances requested for unit count, building height or density. They arc providing wider and green sidewalks along Chicago Avenue. The project is consistent with the Evanston Climate Action Plan and they are seeking LEED certification. They have a green roof and planters on the 2`4 floor along Chicago Avenue. He said in addition, Evanston Devco and its contractor Walsh Construction is offering to provide 5 jobs to Evanston residents with the goals of job training and mentoring on the same terms and conditions as at the Howard Street redevelopment. Mr. Ross added that his architect, landscape architect. land planner and traffic consultant were present to answer any questions. Aid. Wynne said that in the beginning the project looked very different and that Mr. Ross and his team listened to staff, Aid. Wynne and the Chicago Avenue community. She said they changed parking, design, and the unit count and did an admirable job of understanding that in Evanston the job needs to be presented to the community and they need to be acknowledged. She said he adjusted the design in the best way possible in response to all. She commended him on using Design Evanston and having a charrcttc regarding the public space. She said she has heard very little opposition and much in support of the project, which is not generally the case. She commended Mr. Ross on doing a terrific job of recognizing that it is a narrow commercial thoroughfare. She said we don't have enough rental in Evanston and the project is also replacing some older. problematic retail. Aid. W-,zme said the surrounding community is looking forward to having a new project that is well martaged and from her research she understands that Amli is an excellent company that will provide good management_ She asked that the committee suspend the rules and vote on the project tonight and that she believes Evanston will benefit from this project. Aid. Jean -Baptiste said he is very pleased with the design and community outreach. He is very pleased that the contractor is open to hiring Evanstonians, concluding that he supports the project. Aid. Bernstein commended .Mr. Ross saying he should crease a textbook with the method he went through to complete the plans for the project. He wished them well and said he is in support of the project. Aid. Jean -Baptiste moved that tl . ordm nce be amended to include the language that at least 5 jobs will be otTered to Evanston residents in the constriction area and that the terms will be consistent with the Howard Street project. Aid. Rainey seconded the motion. The Committee voted unanimously " to recommend suspending the rules and approve the ordinance as amended. Ong b Crn-I ree 'we I -X) m m tes rage 3 of 14 Decemter 8. 7008 (P21 Consideration of Recommendation to Provide Partial Interest Rate Subsldv and Marketing Assistance for Four Affordable Housing Providers (Reba Place Development Corporation. Evanston Community Development Association. Citizens' Lighthouse Community Land Trust, and Econ Housing Corporation).Using Federal Home Funds Sunolied by HUD Request approval of 567.066 In additional HOME funds In conjunction with a range of activities to assist four affordable ownership developments complete sales by June 30, 2009. The funding consists of S-33,566 in Interest subsidy, 58,000 for marketing and 525,500 for broker incentives. Chair Moran introduced Susan \iunro. Chair of the Housing Commission. Mr. Marino referred to pages 2 and 3 of the staff memo which outlines staffs recommendations to assist the four organizations which have completed their developments but have had a great deal of difficulty selling their units in the current market, hence the reason for the recommended assistance. Ms. Munro said she and Eric Beauchamp would be presenting the marketing plan for the current conditions, and that the Housing Commission would like to make a modification to the recommendation because due to time constraints they did not get to see it prior to tonight's meeting. Mr. Beauchamp, Vice Chair of the Housing Commission and owner of Palladium Real Estate Services and Green River Realty, said he is there as a real estate professional, not a Housing Commission member. He said he has donated his services to the four CHDOs except for Econ, whose unit was already listed. assisting them in listing their units and marketing them to the realtor community and general public, tic explained that as a real estate broker he generally looks at the last three months of the housing market conditions explaining that currently, the average price of condos that are selling is 5300,000 and single family homes, 5500,000 and up, which tells him that the people who are currently purchasing are in a higher income bracket. In 2007, the average home was sold to people in the 148-150% of the U.S. median income range. 80% of the median income is the Mange for affordable units and people in this range have been more negatively affected by the current economic conditions. He referred to page 3 of the Affordable Housing Plan. He said he has learned that there is a different dynamic than market rate housing, since one and a half months ago when he listed the properties on the Niultiple Listing Service (%ILS), that in the target market that the CHDOs arc trying to reach, people arc not necessarily looking for housing in Evanston and may not be working with a real estate professional, so they would not have access to the MLS. He has put together this marketing plan from feedback he received from agents who had called with questions, tic put the: 4 different projects together as one entity so interested parties can cross pollinate between the four properties. They are still utilizing the MLS system, though to reach the approximately 478 Evanston real estate agents, they plan to educate them on the process, the available properties, the requirements, and the resale restrictions. so that the ones who have strong ties with the community will be able to spread the word about the affordable housing properties. He also plans a brokers open house with a bus tour to showcase all 4 of the projects. He said they would like to incorporate the scarfs advertising and marketing ideas that .were in the memo into their plan. They also plan editorial coverage in the newspapers regarding affordable housing in Evanston. Part of the marketing plan is to create a brochure that would include all the info on each of the properties, professionally designed «ith photos, descriptions, resale and income restrictions so that an interested pasty is .sell -educated about the program. He said each of the CHDOs have done a great job of individually marketing their properties and working together to some extent, but there needs to be collaboration between all of them to work with the leads that come in. He said he is also doing internet marketing at Realtor.com, the Chicago Tribune, CraigslisL and Googlebase. Ptarnng & Developmer4 Comm tree Veetng ht rxxes Page 4 of 14 December 8.2008 Mr. Beauchamp explained that one of the challenges is finding realtors willing to forfeit their commissions to buy an affordable unit. He said they need funding to provide commissions for the buyer agents, though not for him, as he is willing to take S1A0 as his commission. Staff recommended 1%. He believes that is a decent start but buyer commissions are typically 2.5%. 1% is about 60% of the noun so if an agent has a client. they have the choice to take 60% less or try to sell them a home where they can make their usual percentage. Mr. Beauchamp said the marketing funds would pay for display advertising, direct mail campaigns, professional signage, broker open support and marketing collateral. Chair Moran thanked him. Aid. Jean -Baptiste asked Mr. Beauchamp what newspapers he had advertised in, to which he replied that he had not approached the Evanston Round Table yet because it is a marginal tool, saying it is helpful but does not generate the necessary activity to sell properties, even in a good market. He said as a business owner, he would do display advertising to help sell a house, but also to drive his brand for future business. He said as a tool to sell these homes, it would be helpful. Aid. Jean -Baptiste asked him to look at the local churches and do direct mail, to which Mr. Beauchamp replied that they do plan to market to local community organizations and their members. He said the CHDOs have done a good job of direct mailing and conversations with community groups to reach individuals. He said they plan to get the word out to the local professional organizations because his experience so far has shown him that the message has not reached them. Aid. Tisdahl said they were told these units would be sold to people who work in Evanston such as policemen, nurses, firemen, teachers and city workers. She asked whether he has given up on that group and what they are doing to attract them, to which Mr. Beauchamp replied that they have not given up on them and their first preference is Evanston residents and employees. He explained that by the nature of how they market on the internet, it is greater than local, but going forward they plan to market to local community organizations which would include businesses, police and teachers, etc. Aid. Tisdahl asked him if any of the money they arc requesting is to be spent on letting people in this community know these units are available, to which fir. Beauchamp replied that the primary marketing will be to Evanston residents and employees, explaining that advertising. press pieces and editorials would be in Evanston newspapers as well as direct mailings to the Evanston real estate community. Ile aided that there is no cost to him for the listings on the internet and MLS. Aid. Rainey said his comments were interesting and important regarding display advertising. however, she asked whether he agrees with staff's recommendation of spending approximately 58,000 for display ads in the Evanston Review and hound Table. Mr. Beauchamp said 58.000 to fund the rest of the initiatives including display ads, is best. as he does not recommend spending all your marketing dollars on one vehicle. She asked if he knows whether advertising and commissions are allowable expenditures for HOME funds, to which Mr. Beauchamp deferred to Mr. Marino for response. who said advertising and marketing are allowable and our HUD representative is supportive of our approach and is seeking clearance from Washington on broker fees, as staff has told our HUD representative it is an important part of the package. Aid. Jean -Baptiste asked whether the Evanston Sentinel was among the publications in which they plan to advertise. Mr. Marino responded that in the staff memo, they did not mean to exclude the Evanston Sentinel. ECDA is already advertising with the Sentinel. P1&rnjng S De e`cornm Comm -ee V-, e:rg : riLres F,-<?e 5 of 14 December 8. 2CC8 Aid. Holmes asked whether we have ever asked any of the realtors if they would be willing to forego their commissions because in these economic times there might be some realtors who would be wzIling to. Mr. Beauchamp replied that currently they are marketing with a SI.00 commission, with the exception of Reba. He said he has had calls from Evanston agents who were happy to work without commission, but he can not say how many people did not call him because there is no commission, adding that in difficult times, it is difficult for real estate professionals. Given the choice, they might choose to get paid out of the necessity to pay their own mortgages. Aid. Holmes asked if we can we put out a plea for that, to which Mr. Beauchamp replied that he has had conversations with agents who have discussed the S1.00 commission with him and others who have asked what he is doing and thought he was crazy. He said he tells them he believes in the cause, real estate has treated him well, and it is time for him to give back. He feels that the real estate community should get involved even with a marginal commission, but whether they will is another question. He believes that if this community brings their clients to the affordable housing table, not only do they sell a home to someone who may not have ever bought from them in Evanston, but they also have a good referral base in a client who is extremely happy, who has gotten into a house they didn't think they could get into, and those people are going to refer them, and that is the core of their business. But, he said, there are people who pass right by affordable housing and never look. Aid. Rainey asked regarding the S16,000 that was recently allocated from HOME funds to pay staff, what the executive directors of these organizations are doing about marketing. Mr. Beauchamp said he believes they have done an admirable job of marketing and selling these properties on their own. He said only 150 properties have sold in the last 3 months and 600 are on the market explaining that the general market is slow so it would be difficult to sell a even a market rate property right now. If you add on income restrictions, resale restrictions, the fact that the banks are requiring much higher standards to get loans, the affordable market shrinks. It is easier to sell a market rate home Chart an affordable home, especially in today's market. Aid. Rainey replied that we need to be spending this money to help people that are in homes, and struggling. She said we have allocated for these 4 applicants S 1,531,365.00 in subsidies, which is equal to $84,994.25 per unit, we have an enormous inventory of these buildings unsold, and she is paralyzed at the thought of throwing morn money after this. She asked why the S 16,000 was not used to bail these organizations out and said she feels that these developers should be bailed out by their lenders, not the City of Evanston. She said she does not mind bailing out a poor soul who is struggling to pay their children's high school book costs and their taxes and put a new• roof on their house. but she is tired of t. rowing money at this prablem with these units sitting empty. She said they were told that desperate people in Evanson need to buy houses and that is why the Committee funded the CHDOs. She said 3 of the buildings are in her ward. Mr. Beauchamp agreed with her but argued that w hen the projects started it was a different market time. Aid. Rainey said she did not like them then and that she knew this would happen because it is an unrealistic effort Mr. Beauchamp said one of the things the Housing Commission is considering is what the result would be of not doing anything. to which Aid. Rainey replied that they would have had S1,500.000 to help people in Evanston who are struggling and going L°uough foreclosure. Mr. Beauchamp said h.- agecs but we must look at the situation we are in today. We can't go back and change this. He said the market is what it is. the situation is now where it's at and we have to address the curm-it conditions and part of the current condition is what would happen if they don't help these groups out of their issue and their banks won't renegotiate. which is. that they will foreclose. He said then you must consider what would happen if you have foreclosed properties which you've already spent the money on, and the ramifications to HOME funds if the properties go into foreclose. Chair Moran opened the floor for comment_ Manning & Development Committee Meetrq M.rxttes Page 6 0114 December 8. 2008 Ms. Carol Balkcom of 2811 Harrison and Treasurer of the Land Trust said if they have to continue paying the carrying costs out of their operating funds, some of which the City just granted them and many of which come from foundations for operating, they will be in violation of their agreements with the foundations and they will not be able to go on for very long. She said ultimately it becomes a question for the Council whether they value having the affordable housing organizations in business. AId. Rainey said to value affordable housing is one thing. She asked how much money they would need going forward to save their organization and what they are spending the operating funds on. :its. Balkcom said they are paying their rent, paying their executive director to work part time every week to talk with potential buyers and try to sell this house. She said 2 qualified families came forward and backed out because of the economic situation. They went as far as they could possibly go and it didn't work. Since ,Lurch V they have spent over S15,000 on carrying costs for that house. They average about S1,600 to S1,700 a month that has come out of their operating funds. Aid. Rainey said they gave them S108,000 to get the house to which %is. Balkcom responded that they used it to purchase and rehab the house. AId. Rainey said they also got S6,500 for downpayment assistance. Ms. Balkcom said the S6,500 is reserved. She said the carrying costs include the loan which is approximately S777.80 a month, taxes, utilities and very expensive insurance they have to carry because it is vacant. Aid. Rainey asked what their operating costs are to which Ms. Balkcom said they are separate from the carrying costs. Aid. Rainey concluded that it is an unaffordable project. Mr. Wilfred Gadsden. Executive Director of Citizens Lighthouse Community Land Trust, said that of a list of 74 real estate properties in foreclosure as of August 5`s, only 4 of them had a balance due of under $200,000, explaining that the affordable housing market has different issues than the general market. He said their organization not only received funds from the City for their project but their board and donors have worked to get charitable donations and on occasion grants. He said they are asking specifically for funds to support carrying the property until they can find a qualified buyer. He said in addition to the two buyers whom Carol Balkcom mentioned, there was another who was ready to close, the property had been appraised, their loan had been approved and then the President announced that there was a crisis in the financial sector and the family backed out. He said they are now working with a 40' family so there is interest, but it is a difficult time. He said Aid. Rainey brings important issues to the table about affordability in general but he asked that the Committee please focus on the fact that the need remains. He said that Aid. Holmes and Jean -Baptiste supported a community meeting that was sponsored by all the CHDOs at which there was very good interest and he got calls after that meeting from other residents in town. He asked the Committer to focus on the fact that the housing market in general is facing an unprecedented crisis. .Mr. David Janzen of the Reba Place Development Corporation CHDO said to offer another perspective, they all staved the projects with assumptions that seemed reasonable to them and to the Committee 3 years ago and those assumptions have greatly changed. He said we can blame the economy, the banks or the CHDOs but it isn't going to change the situation, saying we need to look at what happens if the projects fail: the City has its cost, the batik has its cost, and they go out of business. He said maybe there is not much to cry about, but we need to decide if that is what we want. tie said that staffs proposal is very modest because Reba's carrying costs including assessments, taxes, insurance and interest is about 4 times what they are asking for. for 6 months. He said they are grateful for the funds that came for operating costs and they will keep them working for a few more months and will pay for some of the salaries they haven't been able to pay. He believes they have a chance, if they hold these projects out, to sell most of the units with the plan that's been put together carefully with the bank, the realtors, the City and the CHDOs, adding that nobody can guarantee that we can sell them but nobody can guarantee that we won't be in a deep depression 6 months from now either. He said it seems to be the best way forward in a difficult situation and the best chance for a good outcome for people who need gaming & Dew4op ment Cornm ..ee :'•ee na tl.,nc te5 Page 7 of 14 December B. 2008 housing, the banks, the City and the CHDOs, and that they are all in it together adding that if they want to be in it separately, then they are going to fail separately, but he feels they are a community and being in it together is the best way to succeed. Aid. Rainey asked Mr. Janzen what happens if tbry haven't sold the units by June to which Mr. Janzcn replied that the funds requested do not cover all the carrying costs and in June they will just have to see where they are at. They need to sell 8 snits so if they are down to selling only 2 more units by then, they probably won't need any more help because their carrying costs will be minimal, but if they don't sell any they will be in trouble. He said the last unit was sold at 602 Mulford about 4 months ago and that 4 others have been under contract since then, 3 of which backed out and one is still pending. He said they do show them to new people and there continues to be interest but there are also very high hurdles. Ms. Munro said it was unfortunate that the Housing Commission did not get to talk with Staff about the request for funds but there had been some urgency because of pressure from the banks because these arc all construction loans, some tf which are coming due and there is interest due and that our CHDOs are bleeding_ She explain.^d that the Committee is seeing the interest but they do have additional taming costs related to keeping these places running, especially the ones that arc partially occupied where there are more utility costs and other costs to keep the building going. If they'd had the chance, the Housing Commission feels would have requested funds to cover a grater percentage of the interest ne 'r cd for 6 months because otherwise they will be facing foreclosure if they are not able to generaae salts. She said she applauds Mr. Beauchamp for the hard work he has put in Kith the CHDOs and she feels his marketing plan is going to generate a lot of interest but whether it can be caa verted to sales in the current economic climate, we don't know. She said she would have recocnmend 80-1000NO which would have brought the request up to $67,000 for the CHDOs. Aid. Tisdahl asked whether it would help if they changed the income level of the applicants to buy the affordable housing. She wondered whether we asking people to do something they can't do, which is what got us into the housing mess we're in. Ms. Munro said it was working before but because of the loose credit before which rught have brought some people into foreclosure situations, the banks have tightened incredibly ant w hat they are underwriting so some people who would have qualified for these projects are nut qualifying even if they do have the right income levels. She said they cannot chance the income levels without talking to I -IUD. Aid. Tisdahl said she would like to vote for the proposal but she is looking for some assurance that we're not going to get deeper and deeper into this mess. She expLuned that there comes a time in business to either cut your losses or do something differe`:ly, either different income levels or something so this can work. She is concerned that she is r_ayt hearing that we are doing something differently except try to expand our marketing and go eter Chicagoans, but that wasn't the original focus. She is very concerned that we don't get deeper and deeper into problems by buying more units and rehabbing more units until we figure ou: what it is that isn't working. She supports Aid. Rainey opinion that helping people in pre-tccrclosLire as a better way to use the money. She asked Ms. Munro whether the Housing Cor =isi:on is willing to put a moratorium on adding new units. Ms. Munro replied there is a moratorium now, but added that the Housing Commission only makes recommendations u P&D and the City Council. She said she cannot see that there is any appetite anywhere in tha not` -profit housing community for more projects right now. She said the Task Force will start mcetmg in January to develop a plan to address the needs of Evanston residents at IWO' of the ar= median income and below. She said they will be looking at our current housing stock, where the holes are, what is reasonable going forward and definitely the question of why these project; have not sold and whether there is a mismatch between the supply of affordable subsidized bousing and the demand for it. Aid. Tisdahl asked if she would consider a moratorium on adding sore units until after the Task Force has made their r'extrq & De%rioprrent Comm t;ec V,eetrrg M -ves Page P of 14 Decerrzer E, 2008 recommendations. Ms. Munro said she certainly thinks that the moratorium that is in effect now probably %ill remain until that group comes up with its recommendations. She said she will put it on the Housing Commission agenda for next week's meeting to try to come up with a specific proposal but they don't pass the proposals, Council does, so if the Council feels they should not go forward, they will not go forward. Aid. Tisdahl said she understands that but she would like to have the cooperation of the Housing Commission as well. Ald. Rainey said she rejects spending S8,000 on print advertising and S25,500 on commissions at this time because all of the CHDOs have staff and marketing money in their budgets, and they need to market their properties. She said because Mr. Beauchamp has intemet listings she does not think we should go forward with advertising. She also objects to subsidizing the interest for Econ Development, the for profit developer. Aid Rainey moved to recommend S30,000 for Interest me funding for the 3 not for proilt CHDOs. Aid. Bernstein seconded the motion. AU Jean -Baptiste said he shares the sentiment that we need to find other ways to help those who need housing in Evanston. He said they are in the business of trying to help folks with housing and the energies of the Housing Commission should be directed in a way that meets the current crisis in a different way such as helping those in foreclosure. tie asked what the CHDOs were proposing to pay for commissions to which Mr. Beauchamp responded that staff's recommendation was 1%. Aid. Jean -Baptiste said he would approve 1%, eliminating the advertising. He said he likes Neil Davidson but he thinks if you're for profit, you have to try to incur the costs of trying to make it work. He is willing to support giving the CHDOs assistance in the recruitment of realtors to try to sell the units. In order to refresh the Committee members' memories, he asked that the transcripts of this meeting and the previous meeting be included in material packets at future proposals for funding. tic said if he was in the CHDO business he would be considering whether he should continue to be in that business since a unit of housing that we thought %vas affordable is now costing 4 times that which we projected, but he said he would take a chance on doing some aggressive marketing right now to try to get the ball rolling. Aid. Rainey moved to approve $30,000 In Interest rate carrying costs to the 3 not for profit CHDO's. Ald- Rainey said she has a lot of respect for Mr. Beauchamp and that he had some excellent ideas. She suggested that since he rejects the notion of purring a lot of money into print ads, that the Committee vote on the S30.000 for the CHDOs' interest tonight, and assuming they can pay commissions with the HOME funds, voting on ctanting the commission money after the Committee sees the Housing Commission's critique of Stafrs recommendation because `is. Munro said she wished she had gotten to see it, and the urgent need is to get the interest subsidized. She asked that the Housing Commission present a proposal for funding of commissions and advertising at the next meeting. saying we have to sell these properties. She suggested amending the original motion as such. Aid. Jean -Baptiste added that they need reports that document the CHDOs' attempts to negotiate with their lenders. Mr. Marino said that as part of the process, Stab has met with and conference called Mth the CHDOs, with Econ Housing and the lenders and some have reduced interest rates as a result but they are limited by their cost of funds. He said there has been some progress and we would like to see more. Plam,x b De t�opme-x Corr- =e-_ %.'.t-L:r g Page 9 of 14 Decemt>e- 8.2008 Aid. Wollin asked whether the amount is 533,566 for the interest subsidy, to which Aid. Rainey replied that she had subtracted 51.1,000 from it hoping to add a little more because Ms. Munro had indicated that the real need was in paying the interest on their construction loans. Aid. Holmes said to Nis. Munro that the Task Force will not have met before January 12's. when the next City Council meeting occurs, to which `is. `fu= replied that the Housing Commission will have met by then. Chair Moran thanked Ms. Munro and Mr. Beauchamp. The Committee voted unanimously 8-0 to approve the motion as amended, that the Housing Commission will analyze the non -interest aspects of the proposal and report beck to the Committee at the Jaauary 12, 2009 meeting, and the subsidy of 530,000 for carrying costs Is approved for the three not for profit CHDOs. (P3) Consideration of Plan Commission Recommendation to Adopt the Downtown Plan - as Revised by the Plan Commission Plan Commission recommendation to approve the Draft Downtown Plan as revised by the Plan Commission. Chair Moran said that whatever they decide in rclati an to potential changes in the zoning of Downtown will have to follow whatever they do in reLuion to the Downtown Plan: it is a planning document. The plan will be followed up with specific zoning recommendations later. Air. Marino introduced Kirk Bishop of Duncan Assocaatcs who was present as a resource. He explained that the process is that after adopting a pLm there is a referral back to the zoning Committee of the Plan Commission and that is where features], noticed, public hearings are held and the zoning is only changed officially alter that body completes its work, recommends back to the Plan Commission. back to P&D and Council. specific -ally with its zoning recommendations, the way we arc doing now with West Evanston, after we adcTted the plan several months ago. Aid. Rainey asked for advice on how they would procct,3 with the amendments she would like to recommend. Chair Moran responded that he thinks the most practical way of proceeding is that any member of the committee can pick up an item they have an interest in adding that he believes a large part of the proposed plan will not be controvetsi 1. He said Ire surmises that they need to give some definition to the issues the Plan Commission struggled with but on the broader plan he believes there will be significant agreement. saying tha::he record reflects that a large part of the downtown plan was the subject of complimentary lanet=z ge throughout the proceedings, Aid. Rainey moved adoption of the Downtown Plan. Aid. Bernstein suggested havinz another special meeting to discuss the Downtown Plan. He said he has finally gotten through tine transcripts but recek:Iv issues have been raised which might cause some interest and discussion and it is too much tc- vote for en manse and the only way they can address each of the issues is to devote an entire rnt--ting to it, adding that they haven't even discussed it yet: the people have been talking aNN-i it, the consultants have given their recommendations and he does not Hunt to be pressured into quickly going through the plan. He has a lot of questions about it and he would like to go t.� :rough the whole thing and get it knocked out in a 3 or 4 hour block. Aid. Bernstein moved to hold the item in Committee Rarnrig 6 Dewbspment Ccrrrr:;ee Meerrxi Mxues Page 10 of 14 December 8. 20M Aid. Wynne said she agrees with Aid. Bernstein that it would be better to discuss the Plan all in one night. She supports ha%ing a special meeting and suggested the Committee members submit their questions to the consultant to have answers prepared for the meeting, as they do with the budget, and attack it for 4 hours, though they may not come to a conclusion then. She said she didn't think it would feel very productive to start discussing it for 20 minutes while there are other items on the P&D agenda. She said she is not saying second to the hold, though it is her inclination. Aid. Holmes said she would like to discuss the transitional areas but will withdraw until the Committee decides whether or not to hold the item. Aid. Rainey said she does not favor holding the item, but she understands the process and will honor it. She asked that if they set a special meeting. it be the first week of January, so as to move forward with all deliberate speed. Aid. WoIlin said she would not be back until January 9* or she could meet next week, but since it is her ward Aid. Rainey said she must be present. Chair Moran suggested Friday, January 9's. Auer a discussion. the Committee voted to have the special meeting on Friday, January 9" at 6:00 p.m., with questions from members of the Committee to be submitted by December 18`' to Dennis Marino, who will forward them to the consultant. Aid. Rainey asked that the Downtown Platt be on the Council meeting agenda the following Monday, January 12". Chair Moran said they would keep it on the Committee and Council agendas. The Committee voted unanimously 8-0 to hold the item in Committee and discuss it at a special meeting to be held Friday, January 9", 2009 at 6:00 p.m. (P41 Ordinance 12743-0R Amending the Text or the Zoning Ordinance by Adding Section 6-15-15. "oWE West Evanston Overlav District" and Section 6-15-16. "WEI Rest Evanston Transitional District" Consideration of a Plan Commission recommendation for approval or text amendments to the Zoning Ordinance to add a new zoning district "WEI — West Evanston Transitional District" and to add a new overlay district "oWE — West Evanston Overlay District" to Chapter 15 - Special Purpose and Overlay Districts. Held in Committee on November 24. 2008. AND (P5) Ordinance 128-0-08 Amending the Zoning Alan to Re -Zone Certain Pronertles Pursuant to the West Evanston Phvsical Planning and Urban [mill Design Master Plan Consideration or a Plan Commission recommendation for approval of map amendments to change the base zoning district designations for several properties within the West Evanston Plan area as specified in the NVest Evanston Plan Zoning Implementation document, Base Zoning District Changes map and to designate properties currently within the West Evanston Plan area to be included in the oNVE West Evanston Overlay District as specified in the West Evanston Plan Zoning Implementation document, West Evanston Zoning Overlay map. This item was held in Committee on November 24, 2008. Chair Moran opened the floor to public comment and asked that each speaker limit their time to 4 minutes. Mr. Carliss Sutton of 1821 Darrow commended the presentation of Mr. Ross on the Chicago Avenue project presented earlier at the meeting. Mr. Sutton said he is requesting that Ordinance P►,yin•ng & De eicpment Committee M.eetng M rxres ?ace 1 1 of 14 December 8. 20W 127-0-08 amending the text of the zoning ordinance by adding Section 6-15-15, "oWE West Evanston Overlay District" and Section 6-15-16, -WE1 West Evanston Transitional District" be remanded to the Plan Commission before action is taken for the following reasons: not one of the concerns has adequately been reflected in any of the transcripts that he has been trying to express over the last 4 or 5 months and he does not think the Committee is going to make changes in zoning without having put enough emphasis on the serious significance of community input, especially the stakeholders. He said he was encouraged by the kind of endorsement given to the community businesses and he is asking for the same consideration for the stakeholders and at this time none of their concerns have been addressed. He said they have not heard a reply from the petition they submitted and he thinks the Plan should be remanded from the Plan Commission to have time for serious citizen input regarding these zoning changes. Ms. Roberta Hudson of 1941 Dewey Avenue said she is here to ask the Committee to consider again sending back Ordinance 127-0-08 regarding Section 16-1545 and Section 16-15-16 and Ordinance 128-0-08 for the following reasons: there have been many changes brought forward since June of this year when the original drab was proposed and she and her neighbors have not had a chance to go over those changes with the Zoning Committee of the Plan Commission. She said many of the people who live within 500' of the area arc concerned about many things in the plan. She thinks it is only right that it be sent back for further review. She said the many discrepancies from the original plan have caused her some environmental concerns as she has been told by occupants of those facilities that there is 100 years of contamination and it is only held down by the concrete pavement. She said there are many issues like this that they need to deal with and they need to have their concerns honored, so she is asking that this be sent back to the Plan Commission in all rightfulness for the Miple %%ho have to deal with this decision that you might make, for years to come. She said it is only appropriate that this is aired out in detail as she and her neighbors present have been going over the plan item by item and they see many discrepancies that they are concerned about. She asked that the commitiee give consideration to residents that will have to live with their decision for the rest of their lives, to give them the consideration that they give other plans. Ms. Betty Ester of 2114 Darrow said at the last Council meeting she requested that the Council check to see whether the comments she and ber neighbors present (hereafter referred to as "they") submitted in writing were on the CD that was sent in the last Council packet. She said all the CD contained w-as the public transcription from the person that was paid. None of their documents, while they are referenced in the transcript. were included in the document. She said she sent a copy of them and now she is wondering whether the Committee read it because she does not believe they can send this fonvard and move to approve it without taking into consideration all of the work they did in drafting those con-:ients and lisrening to the zoning people do their presentations, without the consultant addressing her concern and having her questions answered. She said in the discussions the word tower ass used and she wondered why they are talking about tall buildings to anchor down the comers wbcn they had said they didn't want tall buildings and having tall buildings here and there makes them concerned that it will look like a gated community, and they do not think that loons right. She said she agrees with Mr. Sutton and NIs. Hudson that the ordinances should be sent tack, to Line the people in the community who have been coming to the meetings, the same due process and consideration that has been given to other processes where community people have stoken on their plans. She said they would have loved to have had a 2 hour session where they could have gore through the plan page by page and tried to understand where B3 comes into play wben they were talking about 42' height allowance and now they arc seeing mixed buildings that c_-n go up to 57. She said she does not think it is fair for it to move forward without having their questions answered. She doesn't know whether it is a rush, but feels that it should be sent back sa they can have a chance to have it explained to them. She received an email from Aid. Jean -Baptiste and she appreciates it and she is sorry she missed Planning & De&oprneni Comm nee Me_ rng Minutes Page 12 of 14 December 8. 2008 another of his meetings, but she did put her comments in writing and dropped them off at the Civic Center to be reviewed but the next scheduled meeting was cancelled because a staff person was sick, which was unfortunate. She said at the next meeting they said they were not taking public comments, and it was being moved to the PIan Commission at whose meeting she would have an opportunity to speak.. She attended the PIan Commission meeting and they werc told they were not taking public comments, and they would be able to speak at the P&D meeting. She continued that now they are at the P&D meeting but they have not gotten the answers to their questions. She concluded that she does not think the Committee doesn't care that they came out to express their views, but they are asking to hear a response to all of the questions they raised. Mr. James Murray said he was speaking on behalf of several commercial property owners on the west side: Mr. Robinson, hie. Prudden, Mr. Cahill, the Uchtmans and to an extent, Roger Paris, who was excluded from any real consideration in the progress of this matter by virtue of the fact that there were no active commercial aspects to the property which he owns in the proposed development district. He said those people own or operate the businesses on approximately 10 to 12 acres and there are several other larger sites which constitute a total redevelopment potential of some 15 to 16 acres for the Committee's consideration. He said they seem to be entirely attacked by this particular proposal and that none of the people he represents find that a particularly salutary response. He continued. "\lake no small plans" was mentioned here some 125 years ago or so and the fellow came up and decided to live on the lake front as a means by which to endorse the quality of this community. He said the ultimate proposal here however, has been a long process in its comings and goings. He said they have participated in that respect, not because of their endorsement of the proposal but rather out of a desire to participate in obtaining what might be considered to be the best possible legislation, the benefits of which would accrue to the commercial and industrial property owners and business operators. He continued that as a result there were some positive changes for which all of his clients are grateful, such as the lack of legal nonconforming status, which is one of the most fundamental issues which they attempted to achieve and in which there were major concessions however they still have difficulty with the plan because they do not think it is a necessary element of dealing with the west side vacancics and properties that will ultimately be reutilized and perhaps reserved as residential portions of this community. They also see that the plan represents a eery dire and serious impact for the Uchtmans who own the National awards property, which .will be devastated, basically taken virtually in its entirety to serve a roadway which in their vier is not necessary. The same would apply to the Cahill property which would suffer less of a diminishment, but nevertheless a serious and viable piece of property being rendered less and less and less useful. From NIT. Prudden's point of view, the requirement to change the zoning along Greenbay Road at the far northeast corner of this particular model, is absurd because the commercial aspect of those properties is one that has been there for close to 100 rears, and while the particular uses as residential are in fact realities. most of those that have L*een sold in recent years, have been sold and converted to commercial uses. He said they are also not fans of the form based zoning proposals contained in these ordinances, which seem to be unnecessary impositions by persons least qualified to make them and which deny the opportunity for the creative juices of the architectural community to address individual parcels as they come available either by sale or other methods, estates, or whatever. He said their basic objection is that it goes too far because it is not necessary at this time to create such a plan and impose the ordinances that have been developed for the purposes maintained and the objects of changes in use are an unnecessary burden for the property o►vners involved. Mr. Murray concluded that form based zoning seems to be at least 50 years too late for this community. It is contrary to the heritage. the historical development and the general public thought processes of the City of Evanston. Ptzrnrg & Development Commttee,t'eeF��g ti'-motes Dece•-ice 8.2008 Chair Moran thanked Mr. Murray. ?age 13 of 14 Aid. Jean Baptiste moved to hold the item in Committee and have Dennis Marino and Susan Guderley respond to the citizens who said they have not had a response. He also asked that they separate the two plans because one of them deals with commercial entities and they have had several meetings With their own Counsel and Mr. Murray in an effort to negotiate with these specific property owners. He thought they had made some significant progrrss. He said since they have no time left. he would like the next meeting to start with this issue in order to resolve it. Aid- Holmes said that after their meeting last Tuesday she believed \fr. Marino and Ms. Guderley offered to meet with community people to answer the same questions that had been proposed tonight and she believes that offer is still open_ She said some of Ms. Ester's questions could very easily be answered by Staff and that these questions came up in recommendations from the Plan Commission, which are in the Committee's notes, adding that she does not know why they were not available to them but she would love to see them do that before the next meeting. Aid. Holmes said she does not have a problem with holding the item until the next meeting but the citizens cannot continue to raise the same que_-;�ions each time if they do not attend the meetings. She said she was under the impression that there was going to be a meeting last week after the Tuesday meeting to answer the questions. Mr. Marino confirmed that there was a meeting scheduled last Thursday with Ms. Hudson and anyone else that she wanted to bring but Ms. Hudson had to cancel that so they were not able to proceed. Aid. Holmes said they are trying to make accommodations so the questions can be answered. Ms. Hudson said that their meeting on Tuesday did not give them enough time, to which Aid. Holmes replied that that was not the first meeting. They have had a number of mcetincs. Aid. Holmes clarified to the citizens that the Committee understands that they have concerns but that does not mean that those concerns are going to change the Plan. She said that is ont of the things that they tried to address last week and they tried to make sure that the overall community that was present has that understanding. Aid. Holmes recommended that Mr. Marino make himself available to whoever wants to meet so their questions can be answered before the next P&iD meeting because she would like to move ahead at the next meeting. Chair Moran asked her if she agrees with Aid. Jean-Baptiste's motion to old it in committee, to which Aid. Holmes said she aLueed. Mr. ."3arino said he and Nfs. Guderley will meet uhoever would like to meet with them. Ms_ Beverly Moss Mason of 19GO Dewey- Darrow, said not only would like to have some questions answered, but they are very, ven concerned about the chan[ing of the zoning and the r raifi=tions that would chance their neighbonccod. She said they think some things are wonderful but there are some things that they would really like the P&I5 Committee to reconsider within this plan and that is their qutst because :.*icre are things they do not want in their neighborhood. She repeated that they do not Jest want questions ansu-cred. Chair Moran respkcnded that the item is being held in coy. -.-titre; and they' will be back next month at which tines the public and the Committee members will be able to address their issues. In the meantime, there will be a meeting with staff where the titizer.-i who wish to can possibly flush out some of their concerns. Aid. Rainey said for those of them who are not ar the meetings, she requested something that stag what the neighbors' concerns are and what changes they don't want to see. Ald. Jean- Mi;,tiste requested that Mr. Marino report on the process before the PIan Commission and the ?tarn N & De,ebpment Comm Decer-Der 8, 2DD8 Page 14 0114 Zoning Committee of the Plan Commission. Mr. Marino said his. Cuderley was prepared to do that tonight but because of the time issue it has not been presented. The Committee voted unanimously 8-0 to hold items P4 and P5 in Committee. (Pf) Ordinance 133-0-09 Amending Various Building, Zonln. Construction and Fire Service Fees Proposed increases and restructuring or plan review and inspection fees for Building, Fire and zoning fees. The Committee voted unanimously 8-0 to recommend Introduction of The Ordinance. (P7) Ordinance 134-0-08 Amending Section 5-2-5 of the City Code. Lod&ine Establishment "License Fees" Proposed increases in fees related to lodging establishments. The Committee voted unanimously 8-0 to recommend introduction of the Ordinance. ADJOURNMENT The meeting %as adjourned at 9:17 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Bobbie Newman