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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes 1997 -1998�1 CA �P�Dbl MINUTES EVANSTON PLAN COMMISSION Meeting of Wednesday, January 8, 1997 1 7:00 p.m. Evanston Civic Center, Room 2403 MEMBERS PRESENT .................................. Doralne Anderson, Robert Taylor, Martin Norkett, Thomas Stafford, Ron Kobold, David Hart, Sydney Greves, MEMBERS ABSENT .................................................. Richard Cook, Valerie Kretchmer ASSOCIATE MEMBERS PRESENT ............................................. I ...... Steve Knutson STAFF PRESENT ............. Arthur Alterson, Dennis Marino, Marc Mylott, Jim Wolinski, Christopher Wonders I. CALL TO ORDER/DECLARATION OF QUORUM The meeting was called to order at 7:00 p.m., a quorum being present. II. CONSIDERATION OF MINUTES, DECEMBER 11, 1996 The minutes were approved without correction. III. NEW BUSINESS: PUBLIC HEARING The Commission commenced its hearing of case 96-0016-M, a petition by Leon Robinson, property owner, for a zoning map amendment to rezone the property located at 1609-25 Emerson Street from B1, Business District to R4, General Residential Zoning District. Following deliberation, Mr. Norkett moved to recommend approval of the petition as presented. Mr. Taylor seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously. A COPY OF THE VERBATIM TRANSCRIPT FOR CASE 96-0016-M is ON FILE IN THE ZONING DIVISION, ROOM 3700 OF THE EVANSTON CIVIC CENTER. IV. OTHER NEW BUSINESS: COMMITTEE REPORTS Comprehensive General Plan Committee Members discussed the draft Comprehensive General Plan chapter on Neighborhoods as presented by the Comprehensive General Plan Committee. Mr. Knutson stated that he was concerned that the draft over -emphasized change and redevelopment. In his opinion, the higher priority should be preservation of neighborhood character with limited redevelopment in certain areas. Mr. Norkett responded that, in support of economic development, the language 1� of the Comprehensive General Plan needs to recognize market interest in redevelopment and adaptive reuse of existing buildings. Dr. Stafford noted that the current momentum of redevelopment may indicate the need for greater balance between preservation of neighborhood ambience and support for growth and change. Mr. Kobold added that market economics will determine the balance; the Comprehensive General Plan can only recommend what the balance ought to be. Mr. Knutson responded that he felt the plan should not encourage developers to tear down existing buildings and replace them with new construction. Mr. Kobold stated that he felt the language In the draft chapter did the opposite. By encouraging creative adaptive reuse, he continued, the plan was calling for preservation of existing structures but allowing them to be used in new ways to met market demand; site plan and appearance review and zoning guidelines would be the mechanism for implementing and monitoring such redevelopment. Ms. Anderson encouraged studying binding appearance review as part of the Comprehensive General Plan revision process. She recommended that staff assess the level of success the Site Plan and Appearance Review Committee has had in influencing the design elements of proposed developments. Ms. Anderson stated that, overall, the language of the Comprehensive General Plan should be as clear cut as possible in what it supports and what it discourages. Mr. Kobold responded that the language of the plan can be specific at times, but should also be general enough in its goals, objectives, and policies as to allow interpretation at such future time when unforeseen issues have emerged. Mr. Knutson stated that, if the goal of the chapter on neighborhoods is that all neighborhoods be attractive and safe places for living and working, then its first objective should recognize that most of Evanston's neighborhoods already fit that description. Preservation of these neighborhoods and their ambience should therefore be the first policy of the Comprehensive General Plan. Mr. Hart stated that he felt the language of the draft chapter already balances the need for protecting the existing character of neighborhoods with the potential for redevelopment in the future. Dr. Stafford agreed but stated that perhaps slight rewording of the chapter's first objective, guide the change and renewal of Evanston's neighborhoods, might better clarify Mr. Hart's point. Staff agreed to incorporate the comments from the discussion into the reworking of the draft. Mr. Taylor asked if the neighborhood chapter should set as a policy the implementation of a neighborhood planning process in West Evanston. Ms. Anderson responded that the plan should not single -out specific neighborhoods for focused planning effort. Rather, she continued, the plan should encourage neighborhood planning as a tool for general use in different neighborhoods at different times. Mr. Hart agreed, saying that encouraging neighborhood planning was sufficient language for the plan at this point. Mr. Kobold stated that, as was discussed in the Neighborhood Planning Committee, increased minority participation on the Plan Commission is critical before effective planning involvement could occur in West Evanston. No further committee reports were presented. Committee and Liaison Position Assignments for 1997 The members discussed the Commission's various committee and liaison position assignments. Committee rosters for 1997 will be as follows: EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE: David Hart, Marty Norkett, Valerie Kretchmer, Tom Stafford COMPREHENSIVE PLAN COMMITTEE: Valerie Kretchmer, David Hart, Doraine Anderson, Sydney Grevas NEIGHBORHOOD PLANNING COMMITTEE: Ron Kobold, Richard Cook, Marty Norkett, Robert Taylor ZONING COMMITTEE: Doraine Anderson, Tom Stafford, Sydney Grevas, Steve Knutson Marty Norkett will act as Plan Commission liaison to the Economic Development Committee. Tom Stafford will continue as Plan Commission liaison to the CD Committee. V. COMMUNICATIONS I ANNOUNCEMENTS The communications were received without discussion. VI. ADJOURNMENT The Commission adjourned at 9:25 p.m. The next regular meeting of the Evanston Plan Commission is scheduled for February 12, 1997, at 7:00 p.m. in room 2403 of the Evanston Civic Center. General Planner DRAFT, HOT APPROVED • MINUTES IEVANSTON PLAN COMMISSION RETREAT / Wednesday, February 12, 1997 / 6:00 p.m. Evanston Civic Center, Aldermanic Library MEMBERS PRESENT ................................. Doraine Anderson, Robert Taylor, Martin Norkett, Thomas Stafford, Ron Kobold, David Hart, Sydney Grevas, Richard Cook, Valerie Kretchmer ASSOCIATE MEMBERS PRESENT ................................................. Steve Knutson STAFF PRESENT ................... Arthur Alterson, Dennis Marino, James Wolinski, Christopher Wonders CALL TO ORDER 1 DECLARATION OF QUORUM The meeting was called to order at 6:15 p.m., a quorum being present. II. CONSIDERATION OF MINUTES, DECEMBER 11,1996 Doraine Anderson requested that the minutes be amended to include her suggestion that the Site Plan and Appearance Review Process be studied in order to measure its effectiveness . in influencing design standards. The minutes were approved as amended. M. RETREAT: OPEN DISCUSSION David Hart began by introducing John Lyman's application for associate membership. Ms. Anderson moved approval of the application. Valerie Kretchmer seconded. The motion was approved unanimously. Mr. Hart reviewed the staff summary of Plan Commission responsibilities. Ron Kobold stated that he was concerned that some Commission responsibilities, such as zoning amendment hearings, were getting more attention than others that were oriented more towards long-range planning. Mr. Hart responded that the issue has to do with the time constraints of both staff and the Plan Commission itself. Ms. Anderson stated that devoting special focus on Chicago Avenue is something the Commission could commit to doing in order to balance proactive planning duties with zoning duties. Valerie Kretchmer stated that, as time and staff become available, several corridor planning initiatives should be undertaken, including the Chicago Avenue corridor. Dr. Stafford said that there are also other topics for planning consideration, such as the future of the District #65 headquarters at Ridge and Dempster. Ms. Kretchmer added that the City is placing a neighborhood planning priority on the area surrounding the intersection of Dodge Avenue and . Church Street. • Robert Taylor suggested that the Commission cannot focus on all of these issues individually due to time and staffing constraints and should therefore focus on larger issues. He . inquired if an overall marketing strategy was something that should be considered. Dennis Marino responded that the Economic Development Committee would be considering a marketing strategy as part of its preparation of the Economic Development Strategy. Such a marketing effort would be done in collaboration through the City, schools, the Chamber of Commerce, private firms and institutions in order to provide a more balanced perspective about living and working in Evanston than may appear via news media. Regarding Chicago Avenue, Jim Wolinski explained that, at the time the new zoning ordinance was drafted in 1990, those involved were concerned about the future of the car sales industry which is prominent in that corridor. The new ordinance, he continued, is designed to allow redevelopment along Chicago Avenue that will mix business and residential uses and aim to recoup tax revenue that could be lost if the auto dealerships were to leave. He suggested that, at this time, the Plan Commission could add value to the zoning ordinance by focusing on Chicago Avenue specifically and proposing alternatives that will both enhance the corridor and its surrounding neighborhoods and offset potential local tax losses. David Hart asked members if there were any comments on the draft of the annual report which would be sent to the City Council. Mr. Taylor suggested that the report mention the numerous committee meetings that occurred in addition to the fifteen full Commission meetings. He also asked if more details about the survey of residents should be included in the summary. Ms. Kretchmer stated that the results of survey would be of interest to the Economic Development • Committee and to the City Council. Mr. Marino stated that staff will be preparing to distribute results of the survey. Mr. Taylor noted that two-thirds of the Commission's meetings in 1996 had focused on zoning amendment petitions. Dr. Stafford reiterated his concern about frequent changes to the ordinance being sought. Mr. Wolinski explained that the old ordinance allowed use variations, an administrative relief tool not allowed under the new ordinance. He stated that it is somewhat typical for five years of adjustment following the adoption of a new zoning ordinance. Mr. Marino and Mr. Taylor both commented that the high volume of zoning cases could be looked upon as an indication of a healthy interest in the Evanston real estate market. Members moved on to discuss the status of the Comprehensive General Plan. Ms. Kretchmer noted that a survey had been distributed to a number of Evanston based institutions to gather information about their long range capital improvement plans. The results from the survey will be used in the Institutions chapter. Mr. Marino highlighted the discussion that occurred between public school officials and the Economic Development Committee at a recent meeting about the revised economic development strategy. Topics covered at the meeting included: methods for the City and the school districts to collaborate on economic development needs in the area of Church Street and Dodge Avenue; the future of District #65's administrative offices located at Ridge Avenue and Dempster Street; and addressing the high real estate taxes in Evanston. Regarding this final matter, Marino continued, school officials stated that income tax reform at the state level could allow school financing to be less dependent on property taxes. in that discussion, lobbying on the behalf of both the City and the schools to bring about such 1. reforms was recommended as a way of proactively seeking relief of the tax burden on property owners. Relating to other issues of the comprehensive plan project, Steve Knutson reiterated his interest in a strong voice for preservation of existing character in the Neighborhood Chapter and other components of the final document. Mr. Taylor asked if analysis of potential cuts in federal funding should be considered in the comprehensive plan. Marino stated that, at present, there is little indication that Community Development Block Grants (CDBG) will be reduced In the near future. Dr. Stafford reminded the Commission that CDBG funds are relevant to the comprehensive plan because they support property inspections, facade improvements, housing rehabilitation programs, and other community development related programs. Cuts in welfare funding, Mr. Marino stated, are a concern but will be addressed through the City's Human Service Department. Planning the CDBG allocations is addressed in detail each year in the HUD Consolidated Plan and therefore does not require detailed analysis in the comprehensive plan. Members discussed the 1986 Comprehensive General Plan's map entitled "Land Use Opportunities." Mr. Knutson stated that the map should be updated in the area around Downtown Evanston and the University. Ms. Kretchmer added that the highlight on the Green Bay Road corridor should not include the Dominick's property. Ms. Anderson suggested that the soon to be vacated Jewel grocery store on Green Bay Road be marketed to attract Kohl Children's Museum. Sydney Grevas stated that a larger vision for Green Bay Road should be developed as will be done with Chicago Avenue. Mr. Marino stated that the map inaccurately highlights the manufacturing area between Emerson Street and Church Street for potential redevelopment. A large portion of the area is a Commonwealth Edison substation which is not potentially redevelopable, he explained. Ron Kobold then outlined the suggested topics of discussion presented under the heading of Neighborhood Planning. He asked for the Commission's input on these ideas and on how the Neighborhood Planning Committee should focus its time. Mr. Hart stated that, based on earlier discussion, the Committee should focus some attention on Chicago Avenue. Ms. Kretchmer asked if staff resources are available for neighborhood planning in the Church and Dodge area since the City has designated it a very high priority. Mr. Knutson asked if the Neighborhood Committee could replicate the process undertaken on Howard Street at Church and Dodge. Mr. Kobold responded that it was his interpretation that the two situations were somewhat different. Mr. Marino agreed, stating that there are more church organizations that will play a stronger role in driving the process than were present in the Howard Street target area. Mr. Kobold asked how much time the Committee should continue to allocate to the Howard Street project. Mr. Marino responded that quarterly check -ins would be adequate as many of the projects are now at an implementation stage through various City departments. He added that Mr. Norkett should continue his role on the Howard Street Redevelopment Committee. Ms. Anderson stated that one thing that detracts from neighborhoods in west Evanston is ithe presences of leftover embankments from the old Mayfair railway. These embankments pose a real and a psychological barrier that may prevent west side development opportunities. She suggested that the City investigate raising interest and funding mechanisms for assisting property owners to clear railroad embankments. She added that the City should then consider connecting streets that were previously segmented due to the railroad. Mr. Marino noted that, at present, several of the neighborhoods in the area are more interested in creating cul-de-sacs in order to block traffic. Mr. Taylor recommended that a corridor study also be done of the former Mayfair right-of-way. Mr. Hart stated that, in light of limited staff and time, the Neighborhood Committee should study Chicago Avenue at this point. Considering the level of participation between the City, schools, church organizations and numerous neighborhood interest groups, neighborhood planning will occur in west Evanston around Church and Dodge without the involvement of the Plan Commission in his opinion. Mr. Kobold asked if the Neighborhood Committee or the full Commission should be involved in the discussion about any changes in the Research Park Master Plan. Mr. Marino responded that the Plan Commission's role with the Research Park was the consideration of proposed zoning amendments to the district. Otherwise, he continued, the City's involvement with the project occurred through its members on the Research Park Board and through some involvement of the Economic Development Committee. Mr. Marino concluded that the Commission's Neighborhood Committee should examine Chicago Avenue with the understanding that the staff available for the project will also be working with other issues. Ms. Kretchmer stated that the Chicago Avenue focus should be from Dempster to South Blvd. Richard Cook agreed that the consensus should be for Chicago Avenue as a primary focus of the Committee. • As a final matter, the Commission briefly discussed the status of various zoning cases. Mr. Alterson stated that there were no further cases scheduled between February and the April 9th hearing. He added that there are several aldermanic references awaiting consideration. Dr. Stafford asked for clarification of the zoning ordinance's authority over property owned by other government entities. Mr. Alterson stated that the ordinance does apply, especially when the property is sold into private ownership. He added, however, that with regards to building codes, state school codes do preempt building codes on many issues related to public school buildings. Mr. Marino drew the Commission's attention to the difficulty the Preservation Commission has had in the past influencing preservation sensitivities on rehabilitation projects at public schools. He suggested that the Commission's Zoning Committee may want to consider performing research as to the authority of all City ordinances in such cases. IV. ADJOURNMENT The Commission adjourned at 8:45 p.m. The next meeting of the Plan Commission will be Wednesday, March 12, 1997, at 7:00 p.m., in Room 2403 of the Evanston Civic Center. 1 1���.��%^tNi`rlarr.`I,/�SFj��,.��LY.il Christopher onders . General Planner MINUTES EVANS'I ON PLAN COMMISSION Meeting of Wednesday, March 12, 1997 17:30 p.m. Evanston Civic Center, Room 2403 MEMBERS PRESENT ................. Doraine Anderson, Richard Cook, Valerie Kretchmer, Martin Norkett, Thomas Stafford, Ron Kobold, David Hart, Sydney Grevas, MEMBERS ABSENT.............................................................. Robert Taylor ASSOCIATE MEMBERS PRESENT ...................................... Steve Knutson, John Lyman STAFF PRESENT ............................................. Dennis Marino, Christopher Wonders Others Present................................................................. Chuck Remen I. CALL TO ORDERIDECLARATION OF QUORUM The meeting was called to order at 7:30 p.m., a quorum being present. II. CONSIDERATION OF MINUTES, FEBRUARY 12, 1997 The minutes were approved without correction. III. OLD BUSINESS Members discussed committee meeting schedules. The Zoning Committee meets on the first Friday of the month at 8:00 a.m. David Hart stated that the Comprehensive General Plan committee does not have a fixed monthly meeting time. Ron Kobold stated that the Neighborhood Committee meets the fourth Tuesday of the month, also at 8:00 a.m. IV. NEW BUSINESS: COMMITTEE REPORTS ZONING COMMITTEE: Doraine Anderson outlined a report from the Zoning Committee that proposed amending the City's fence ordinance. She stated that the ordinance currently allows plastic fencing only in industrial zoning districts and that, in order to keep the ordinance current with advances in technology and materials, the Zoning Committee has recommended considering an amendment to the ordinance to allow plastic fencing elsewhere in the city. Ms. Anderson presented several samples of the material in question. She underscored the advantages the material offers in terms of its durability, its reduced maintenance costs, and its recyclability. Ms. Anderson added that the Committee had discussed the need to structure the EVANSTON PLAN COMMISSION ! MARCH 12, 1997 PAGE 2 DRAFT, NOTAPPROV ED language of such an amendment to allow only the highest quality examples of plastic fencing in order to address aesthetic concerns. Chris Wonders stated that, due to its nature as a proposed amendment, the Commission will have to discuss the subject in an appropriately noticed public hearing. As such, the Commission should consider when such a hearing should take place. Ms. Anderson solicited input on what language would be used to draft the proposed amendment that would be noticed. Tom Stafford stated that the Plan Commission, as the proponent of such an amendment, would be acting upon its mandate to evaluate the Zoning Ordinance from time to time in order to keep it current. Dr. Stafford moved that a -pu�lic hearing be scheduled for this matter. Ms. Anderson seconded -the motion. Ron Kobold asked if the members of the Committee were prepared to answer detailed questions about the subject. Dennis Marino suggested that the issue should be referenced to other boards and commissions, including the Site Plan and Appearance Review Committee, in order to gather input on the matter. Ms. Anderson responded that such groups should be notified of the Plan Commission's eventual hearing and be asked to comment at that time. The motion to schedule a headno on the matter was aaoroved unanimously. Mr. Kobold asked how and when discussion with other boards and commissions would take place. Richard Cook said that it should happen before a public hearing. Mr. Marino suggested that it could take the form of a reference to the other bodies. He said that it was possible that such discussion could take place prior to the hearing. Ms. Anderson stated that the Committee had also examined the uses of the 01 zoning districts with particular regard for the future of the area located at Ridge Avenue and Green Bay Road. She said that the area has peculiar characteristics that make it unique from other 01 districts in Evanston. Dr. Stafford said that the Committee had yet to conclude its consideration as to whether or not the district should be considered for a new zoning designation. Steve Knutson stated that adding a new district would make sense for this unique collection of parcels. Ms. Anderson added that its location next to an historic district makes it of particular necessity for close scrutiny over what types of development occur. Mr. Hart stated that prior to a hearing, he would like to see further analysis as to the need for rezoning. He stated that staff and the Zoning Committee should prepare a presentation on the subject. Dr. Stafford summarized a list of other issues relating to zoning that he feels the Commission should address, He summarized the list which included the following: land use controls on school district property; density requirements under phased planned developments; principle uses in transitional campus zoning districts; rights of applicants and affected property owners within 500 feet in cases of planned developments; substitution of special use by the Zoning Administrator; transition landscape strip in 01 district; air rights; height in downtown districts; plastic fencing material; satellite antennae and other DRAFT. NOT APPROVED EVANSTON PLAN COMMISSION I MARCH 12,1097 PAGE 3 technological advancements; buried utilities and wires along dedicated rights of way; section 6-3-6-6. Ms. Anderson added that parking requirements should also include one and one half parking spaces per unit for new construction. NEIGHBORHOOD PLANNING COMMITTEE: Ron Kobold referenced the memo addressing the Neighborhood Committee's consideration of planning alternatives for Chicago Avenue. He stated that the Committee is hoping to create an approach for that corridor that can be replicated easily in other areas. Ms. Anderson reminded members that parts of the Chicago Avenue corridor are adjacent to an historic district, a fact that should be included in the analysis. In other matters, Mr. Norkett reported that the Howard Street Redevelopment Committee would be selecting a consultant for implementing that corridor's redevelopment strategy. ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE: Mr. Norkett reported that a manufacturer in the West Evanston Industrial District is currently working with the City to expand its operations In Evanston. He stated that the Economic Development Committee also discussed the issue of vacant storefronts in Downtown Evanston. Dennis Marino stated that, currently, there is a nine percent groundfloor vacancy rate in the downtown area. He explained that part of the vacancy rate is due to particular situations citing the example of the Chandler Building where there is demand for the retail space but continued vacancy due to pending sale of the property. Marty Norkett reported that the Economic Development Committee will be looking at the need to stimulate interest in the downtown area through multiple measures including increased residential uses and better parking. Regarding the Sherman Avenue parking garage project, Mr. Marino stated that the City Council had declined the proposal offered for the redevelopment of the City -owned garage and issued a new RFP for ideas to rehabilitate the garage without retail use. Mr. Marino stated that the draft Economic Development Strategy would be nearing completion and will be eventually shared with other boards and commissions. The strategy, he said, includes a number of goals and objectives including more substantial marketing for Evanston as well as redevelopment initiatives for certain areas. Mr. Marino also reported that two outlots of the Evanston Center retail development on Howard Street were being developed. Similar proposals were emerging for outlots at the Home Depot site. Valerie Kretchmer joined the meeting at approximately 8:30. COMPREHENSIVE GENERAL PLAN COMMITTEE. Members discussed the draft chapters on the downtown and other business areas. Valerie Kretchmer stated that the business district chapter makes a deliberately broad statement about the future of Chicago Avenue so as to allow the Neighborhood Committee to focus more carefully on the issue. Members of the Neighborhood Committee stated that the draft accurately depicts their preliminary thoughts about Chicago Avenue. John Lyman stated that parking issues should be addressed T EVANSTON PLAN COMMISSION ! MARCH 12,1997 DRAFT, NOT APPROVED PAGE 4 thoroughly in reference to the Chicago Avenue corridor, particularly in light of anticipation of increased business and housing density. Richard Cook stated that traffic impact will also have to be Included. Ron Kobold added that the same parking consideration needs to be applied to the downtown chapter. Chuck Remen suggested that the Committee should pay particular attention to the simplification of concepts so that all readers of the plan will be able to understand. He also suggested that the Committee's work should begin by using the existing plan as a framework because he feels it successfully addresses many issues. Ms. Kretchmer responded that this was the existing procedure with the drafting of each revised chapter. She thanked Mr. Remen for his comments and stated that once completed, the draft of the entire revised plan would be the subject of community review and input. Ms. Kretchmer stated that, regarding the Institution chapter, the Committee was reviewing responses to a brief survey distributed to ten of the city's larger institutions. The questions asked about institutional capital improvement and expansion goals for the next decade. Responses will be used to inform the Committee's work on the Institution chapter. OTHER REPORTS: Dr. Stafford summarized recent activities of the City Council and stated that he had no report from the CD Committee. Members discussed the issue of associate membership of non -Evanston residents. Members generally felt that both full and associate membership should be limited to residents only. Ron Kobold and Valerie Kretchmer asked staff to inquire with the City Clerk's office regarding other the policy of other boards and commissions on this matter. V. ADJOURNMENT The Commission adjourned at 9:15 p.m. The next regular meeting of the Evanston Plan Commission is scheduled for April 9, 1997, at 7:00 p.m. in room 2403 of the Evanston Civic Center. Respectfully submitted, Christopher Wonders General Planner rf MINUTES EVANSTON PLAN COMMISSION Meeting of Wednesday, April 9, 1997 / 7:00 p.m. Evanston Civic Center, Room 2403 MEMBERS PRESENT ............... Doraine Anderson, Richard Cook, Sydney Grevas, Ron Kobold, Valerie Kretchmer, Martin Norkett, Thomas Stafford, Robert Taylor MEMBERS ABSENT.......................................................... David Hart ASSOCIATE MEMBERS PRESENT ........................................... Steve Knutson ASSOCIATE MEMBERS ABSENT ............................................. John Lyman STAFF PRESENT ................................................... Christopher Wonders PRESIDING..................................................... Martin Norkett, Vice -Chair I. CALL TO ORDER/DECLARATION OF QUORUM The meeting was called to order at 7:05 p.m., a quorum being present. II. CONSIDERATION OF MINUTES, MARCH 12, 1997 The minutes were approved without correction. III. OLD BUSINESS -CONTINUATION OF CASE ZPC 97-1-M: A petition by Cyrus Homes, contract purchaser, for a Zoning Map Amendment to rezone from C1 and C2, Commercial Zoning District, to C1a, Commercial Mix -Use Zoning District, the properties commonly known as 1101-37 Chicago Avenue. This hearing was continued from January 29, 1997. Attorney Jim Murray, for the petitioner, requested further continuance of the matter. The Commission voted unanimously to grant the continuation to June 11, 1997. IV. NEW BUSINESS Members discussed topics related to the NCI Research report entitled Evanston's Property Tax: Present and Future Impacts on the City's Economy. Marty Norkett stated that the Economic Development Committee will soon be presenting to the Plan Commission a draft of its economic development strategy. Valerie Kretchmer voiced concern over the Plan Commission's zoning deliberations taking place without adequate input on economic development priorities. She highlighted 971 EVANSTON PLAN COMMISSION l APRIL 9, 1997 PAGE 2 of 9 APPROVED recent comments made before the City Council about the Vineyard Christian Fellowship's petition for a special use and pending purchase of 1810-12 Ridge Avenue. She inquired about concerns over converting commercial property into religious institutional uses when, at the same time, downtown office and retail spaces are facing increased vacancies. Members discussed downtown vacancies and real estate difficulties related to market changes and Evanston's high property tax. Sydney Grevas stated that Evanston has the types of office space that is in demand but that it may not be affordable. For this reason, she continued, as office users look to more affordable locations, Evanston may see increased adaptive reuse of office space as residential units. Mr. Norkett stated his opinion that Evanston's future will involve increasing interest in the redevelopment of underutilized property and that, at times, such redevelopment will need technical and financial assistance from the public sector. Dr. Stafford asked if increased manufacturing uses were part of that future or if it would primarily include office uses, residential uses, and commercial/office/residential mixed uses. Robert Taylor stated that Evanston's comparative advantages such as the University and ease of access to Chicago do not necessarily attract manufacturers who prefer ease of access to highway systems. Mr. Taylor stated that not -far -profit agencies are more able to afford Evanston property because they do not have to pay property taxes. Members discussed fees -in -lieu of taxes as will pertain to the Vineyard Christian Fellowship acquisition of the property in question on Ridge Avenue. Steve Knutson stated that no other church pays taxes and that they serve the Evanston community very well. Mr. Taylor responded that the matter needs to be considered through trend analysis to determine if there is a point at which an overabundance of property has been taken off the tax rolls. Ron Kobold added that, while the NCI Research study indicates a lack of land zoned for commercial uses as problematic for Evanston, it is not feasible to consider rezoning Evanston in order to significantly increase the amount of commercial land. Valerie Kretchmer stated that she found it troubling that the study did not synthesize the work of the Economic Development Committee's survey of businesses. She said that greater collaboration among economic development agencies would be desirable in helping to improve the flow of information regarding business retention and attraction. Chris Wonders stated that the process of facilitating retention has been successful in the case of C. E. Niehof, a manufacturer in the West Evanston Industrial District who has sought City assistance in its expansion plans. In that instance, he explained, City staff were able to address a series of issues related to a specific frm's future in Evanston. He added that addressing more general topics related to strengthening the Evanston economy, including overcoming challenges to business retention and attraction, will be the purpose of the forthcoming economic development strategy. Mr. Taylor stated that the high cost of doing business in Evanston is directly related to the high property tax which in turn is largely related to the school districts. He suggested lobbying the state for school finance reform. Members discussed working with the schools to address high property ,aPPROVEc EVANSTON PLAN COMMISSION l APRIL 9, 1997 PAGE 3of3 taxation in Evanston. Dr. Stafford mentioned that an Evanston city local income tax inuring to the school districts could be used to offset property tax increases. V. Kretchmer responded that such a local income tax would undermine Evanston's economic competitiveness with other communities. Dr. Stafford suggested that, alternatively, the City could pay in whole or in part for school busing. Chris Wonders stated that the Plan Commission's deliberations on land use issues relating to zoning amendments and revisions to the Comprehensive General Plan can incorporate the priorities of the Economic Development Committee's forthcoming economic development strategy. In so doing, the Commission will be enacting its role relating to Evanston's economic development. COMMITTEE REPORTS Tom Stafford reported on issues discussed at recent City Council meetings. He recommended that the Zoning Committee consider adding regulation of various adult uses to the list of zoning matters it is considering. Doraine Anderson reported on the Zoning Committee. She asked that the Commission prioritize the aforementioned list of issues to be clarified in the Zoning Ordinance. Members agreed that three of the fourteen items should be prioritized. Those matters to be given first attention are land use controls on school district properties; clarification of the definition of retail -goods establishments in order to control adult uses; and consideration of increasing parking requirements to 1.5 spaces per residential unit in multi -family housing construction. She announced that progress is being made on the matter of amending the ordinance to allow plastic fencing in districts other than the industrial districts. The matter had been presented to the Site Plan and Appearance Review Committee where it was tabled pending further investigation. C. Wonders stated that staff would be present at the next Preservation Commission meeting to notify its members of the Plan Commission's proposed amendment. Preservation Commission members will be invited to attend the Plan Commission's hearing on the subject in order to voice whatever concerns they may have on the issue. Mr. Wonders stated that he would communicate the Plan Commission's interest in scheduling the hearing for the May 14th meeting to the Zoning Division so that appropriate public notice may be given. V. ADJOURNMENT The Commission adjourned at 8:50 p.m. The next regular meeting of the Evanston Plan Commission is scheduled for May 14, 1997, at 7:00 p.m. in Room 2403 of the Evanston Civic Center. Re c f*rond� Chris ers General Planner 11h,\P PROVE 0 MINUTES EVANSTON PLAN COMMISSION Meeting of Wednesday, May 14, 199717:00 p.m. Evanston Civic Center, Room 2403 MEMBERS PRESENT ............................. Doraine Anderson, Sydney Grevas, David Hart, Valerie Kretchmer, Martin Norkett, Thomas Stafford, Robert Taylor MEMBERS ABSENT ..................................................... Richard Cook, Ron Kobold ASSOCIATE MEMBERS PRESENT ........................................ Steve Knutson, John Lyman STAFF PRESENT ....................... Arthur Alterson, Dennis Marino, Marc Mylott, Christopher Wonders PRESIDING................................................................... David Hart, Chair 1. CALL TO ORDERIDECLARATION OF QUORUM The meeting was called to order at 7:00 p.m., a quorum being present. II. CONSIDERATION OF MINUTES, APRIL 9, 1997 The minutes were approved with the following amendments: Dr. Stafford proposed that two sentences be added to the paragraph ending at the top of page three. Sentences are to read as follows: "Dr. Stafford mentioned that an Evanston city income tax inuring to the school districts could be used to offset property tax increases. Alternatively, he continued, the City could consider paying for school busing in whole or in part." Robert Taylor requested that his comments relating to not -for -profit agencies be amended to read "... that not -for -profit agencies are more able than private developers to afford Evanston property because they do not have to pay property taxes." Several other typographical errors were noted for correction. III. NEW BUSINESS -PUBLIC HEARING OF CASE ZPC 97-2-T(R) The Plan Commission considered amendments to the Zoning Ordinance's fence regulations (SECTION 6-4-6-7) including without exclusion: clarifying the regulations concerning nonconforming fences; including wood -polymer lumber and plastic as permitted fence materials within all districts, including those zoned residential; increasing the maximum permitted fence height to 8 feet within the 13, General Industrial District; clarifying the location requirements for fences; and, for fences within front yards, deleting the opacity requirement for masonry or stucco fences and reducing the required openness of other fence types. On a motion made by Doraine Anderson and seconded by Valerie Kretchmer, the Commission voted unanimously to recommend listing wood -polymer lumber and PVC as acceptable fence materials. The remaining matters of the proposed amendment were tabled until EVANSTON PLAN COMMISSION I MAY 14,1997 PAGE 2 of 5 APPROVED the June 11, 1997 meeting at which time the staff of the Zoning Division will have prepared further material for Commission consideration. A COPY OF THE VERBATIM TRANSCRIPT FOR CASE ZPC 97-2-T(R) WILL BE ON FILE IN THE ZONING DIVISION, ROOM 3700 OF THE EVANSTON CIVIC CENTER. IV. OTHER NEW BUSINESS: PRESENTATION BY RON KYSIAK, EVANSTON INVENTURE Mr. Ron Kysiak of Evanston lnventure spoke to the Commission regarding a recently completed study of the negative impact high property taxes have on commercial real estate development. Mr. Kysiak stated that the study makes several important points. First, Evanston's property tax takes approximately 8% of a commercial building's equalized assessed value in taxes each year. Second, in order for an Evanston commercial building owner to remain competitive in the marketplace, he or she must lease his space at a gross rent comparable to that of other office markets. But owners in those other markets (e.g., locations in Lake County) pay a lower percentage of their building's equalized assessed value in taxes. Therefore, the Evanston commercial property owner who is paying more in taxes than his competitor out of nearly equal gross rent makes a relatively lower income. Mr. Kysiak stated that the resulting lower income is a dis-incentive to the construction of new commercial space in Evanston. In Mr. Kysiak's opinion, without new office construction to increase the supply in Evanston's presently tight office market, keeping growing firms in Evanston will become increasingly difficult. He stated that this is particularly relevant to the Research Park where high technology firms require modern office amenities and layouts not always found in the existing office stock. According to Mr. Kysiak, the high degree of success at growing firms in the Research Park's incubator is mitigated by the loss of those companies leaving Evanston in search of adequate office space. In conclusion, Mr. Kysiak stated that he believed the Plan Commission needs to be aware of this matter when it considers future land use issues particularly related to existing commercial property and to amending the zoning ordinance. Mr. Hart thanked Mr. Kysiak for his presentation. Valerie Kretchmer related Mr. Kysiak's comments to the recent petition brought before the Plan Commission to allow religious institutions as a special use in office zoning districts. She stated that the Plan Commission's consideration of the petition occurred without any challenge to the assertion that the property located at 1810 Ridge Avenue (which would be the subject of the Zoning Board of Appeals' subsequent special use consideration) was not viable for a modern office location. She stated that the Plan Commission needs to be informed by staff and interested parties of the potential uses and reuses of properties when it is considering zoning amendments. Members discussed improving the notification to interested parties vis-a-vis pending zoning matters Ms. Kretchmer asked about the other office spaces available in Downtown Evanston. Mr. Kysiak responded that some existing office spaces are not appropriately configured for the types of high tech firms coming out of the Research Park. He added that the Plan Commission should be aware that many aspects of the property tax problem are found throughout Cook County and APPROVED EVANSTON PLAN COMMISSION 1 MAY 14, 1997 PAGE 3 of 5 that, although it will be difficult to accomplish, solving the problem will Involve reforming the County's system of property classification. Thomas Stafford stated that not -for -profits have a competitive advantage over private enterprises in purchasing real estate; they can more readily afford the high property costs because they in turn do not have to pay the property taxes. Mr. Kysiak concurred. Dr. Stafford then asked if there were any way to create a dis-incentive for not -for -profits to locate in Evanston. Mr. Kysiak responded that perhaps it would be more feasible for the Plan Commission to recommend that the City Council conduct thorough cost -benefit analyses in considering the appropriateness of granting zoning variations and special uses for not -for -profit agencies. John Lyman asked how the City can produce incentives to attract new businesses despite the tax complexities that will more than likely require lobbying Springfield in order to achieve property tax reform. Marty Norkett stated that allowing a streamlined planned -development zoning process to occur is one way to make Evanston attractive for development. He stated that this would be particularly helpful for redevelopment interests in the Chicago Avenue corridor. Doraine Anderson stated that good planning would not target one portion of the city to bear the brunt of the larger needs. Mr. Norkett contended that presently the office market is currently bearing that brunt. Ms. Kretchmer stated that working to reform tax policy at the County and State level are outside of the immediate purview of the Plan Commission. Instead the Commission should focus on issues that it can more readily influence within Evanston. She asked Mr. Kysiak if it was plausible for the City and Northwestern University to collaboratively build new office space in the Research Park. Mr. Kysiak stated that the two entities are not willing to finance such construction without a major tenant guaranteeing occupancy of the space once construction is completed. He stated that the City and other agencies could work together to improve amenities (such as telecommunications infrastructure) which would be particularly attractive to high technology firms. Doraine Anderson asked if other properties outside of the Downtown were inventoried when they were available for sale or for lease. Dennis Marino stated that the Planning Division updates a citywide inventory of commercial space on a quarterly basis. The inventory includes multiple details about each space and is shared with numerous interested parties. Mr. Kysiak stated that he too is compiling an inventory of available commercial spaces that will meet the needs of graduating research park tenants. He added that he feels he will be able to accommodate growing tenants in the short run, but that in the long run he is not sure that there is an adequate supply of commercial space for tenants. Mr. Taylor stated that, relating to the issue of tax-exempt properties in Evanston, a study is underway in the Community Development Department to track changes in the amount of property that is exempt from property taxes. Mr. Kysiak responded that he had performed an analysis in years past between Evanston's and Skokie's volume of tax-exempt land. While the two communities were close in comparison to one another, the more significant difference was in the type of property that was on the tax rolls. Skokie has Old Orchard shopping center and manufacturing firms that lead to a higher tax base than Evanston's, he explained. EVANSTON PLAN COMMISSION 1 MAY 14,1997 PAGE 4 0 6 APPROVED Robert Taylor asked if the City should more aggressively use eminent domain to claim land for commercial development. Valerie Kretchmer responded that finding available land is not the problem. Doraine Anderson added that creating more TIF (tax increment financing) districts to leverage redevelopment is politically unpopular and unlikely. Dr. Stafford stated that profit -making non -profits (e.g., Evanston Hospital) need to be examined. Mr. Kysiak stated that one approach is to seek fees in -lieu -of taxes from such entities. A second strategy he continued is to lobby for shifting from property taxation to higher income taxation for school funding at the state level. Likewise, creative economic development needs to tap into hotels and tourism in Evanston. He stated that Evanston lnventure is working with other groups to implement such strategies. The Chair and members thanked Mr. Kysiak for his presentation. V. COMMUNICATIONS Members considered two applications for associate members. On a motion by Doraine Anderson, members voted unanimously to accept as associate members Ms. Philinda Coleman (2007 Jackson Avenue) and Ms. Nettie Johnson (2208 Emerson Street). Mr. Hart drew members attention to a letter from James Murray stating that Cyrus Properties was officially withdrawing its application for a zoning amendment for properties located in the eleven -hundred block of Chicago Avenue. Mr. Norkett stated that, in his opinion, the Zoning Ordinance's planned -development regulations make developments of this sort too difficult. He recommended that the ordinance be examined in order to streamline the process. Arthur Alterson stated that the planned development process is laborious and not necessarily effective. John Lyman stated that the project also faced significant political opposition due to its proposed height that would have been out of context with the adjacent R1 residential district. He stated that this political factor needs to be considered in the analysis of Chicago Avenue and any redevelopment that may be considered in its future. Sydney Grevas stated that, in light of economic realities, perhaps increased height and density of development may in some places be inevitable and not necessarily undesirable. Dennis Marino stated that, although this particular petition has been withdrawn, the Chicago Avenue corridor is still an attractive location for future residential development. VI. COMMITTEE REPORTS Members discussed the prioritization of issues needing clarification in the Zoning Ordinance. Doraine Anderson stated that the City Council has referred to the Plan Commission the issue of amending the definition of retail establishments vis-a-vis adult uses. She stated that this is already one of the Commission's own priority issues, but added that there were still other issues to be ranked in order of importance for the Zoning Committee. John Lyman stated that one of the first priorities should include consideration of increasing parking requirements. Marty Norkett said that Arthur Alterson and the Zoning Division staff should be closely involved in setting these priorities. APPROVED EVANSTON PLAN COMMISSION! MAY 14,1997 PAGE 5 at 5 Ms. Anderson stated that she had spoken with Alderman Rainey regarding Richard Cook's idea of reconstructing a station on the Skokie Swift railway at Dodge Avenue. Ms. Anderson explained that at one time there was such a station and that, while there is little likelihood of the CTA's willingness to do so, were a new station to be built, it would improve transit access in southwest Evanston. Dr. Stafford summarized the recent activities of the City Council. He asked staff for clarification on matters relating to the setback standards for sidewalk cafes. Mr. Marino and Mr. Alterson explained that there had been a contradiction between a policy to encourage sidewalk cafes in the Downtown and the policy of fifteen foot clearance standards which in many cases makes sidewalk cafes impossible. In an effort to correct the contradiction, the fifteen foot clearance requirement was eliminated while a lesser requirement of five feet was left in place. Marty Norkett stated that the Economic Development Committee has several new members and a new chair, Alderman Gene Feldman. Dennis Marino stated that the Committee is currently seeking public comment on its Economic Development Strategy. He added that Alderman Feldman has stated an interest in a joint meeting with the Plan Commission at a date yet to be determined. The meeting would focus on matters of joint interest for both the Plan Commission and the Economic Development Committee. VII. ADJOURNMENT The Commission adjourned at approximately 10:00 p.m. The next regular meeting of the Evanston Plan Commission is scheduled for June 11, 1997, at 7:00 p.m. in Room 2403 of the Evanston Civic Center. Respectfully submitted, General Planner DUUG 6T, NOT APPROVED MINUTES EVANSTON PLAN COMMISSION Meeting of Wednesday, June 11, 199717:00 p.m. Evanston Civic Center, Room 2403 MEMBERS PRESENT ............. Doraine Anderson, Richard Cook, Sydney Grevas, David Hart, Ron Kobold, Valerie Kretchmer, Martin Norkett, Thomas Stafford, Robert Taylor ASSOCIATE MEMBERS PRESENT ........... Philinda Coleman, Nettie Johnson, Steve Knutson, John Lyman STAFF PRESENT ....................... Arthur Alterson, Dennis Marino, Marc Mylott, Christopher Wonders OTHERS PRESENT ............................. Max Dieber (Northeastern Illinois planning Commission) PRESIDING ...................... ............................................. David Hart, Chair I. CALL TO ORDERIDECLARATION OF QUORUM The meeting was called to order at 7:00 p.m., a quorum being present. David Hart introduced Ms. Nettie Johnson, the first of two new associate members appointed to the Plan Commission at its May meeting. II. CONSIDERATION OF MINUTES, MAY 14, 1997 The minutes were approved with one amendment: Doraine Anderson stated that Richard Cook was the individual who first suggested that the CTA should be contacted in order to propose the reconstruction of a Skokie Swift train station at Dodge Avenue (1st paragraph, fop of page 5). III. PRESENTATION -REGIONAL POPULATION GROWTH, MAX DIEBER (NIPC) Max Dieber, Director of Research Services at the Northeastern Illinois Planning Commission (NIPC), spoke to the Plan Commission regarding population growth forecasts for the Chicago region and for Evanston specifically. Mr. Dieber stated that the forecasts are preliminary and that NIPC is presently refining them. (David Hart paused the presentation in order to introduce Ms. Philinda Coleman, the Commission's second new associate member who had entered the meeting at that time.] The NIPC-generated forecasts indicate regionwide population growth of 1.8 million more people and employment growth of 1.4 million more jobs between 1990 and 2020. Mr. Dieber presented several maps depicting growth patterns in the region and how they could be affected by different variables, such as the construction of a third regional airport in a south suburban location. EVANSTON PLAN COMMISSION I JUNE 11, 1997 PAGE 2of4 DRAF ; HOT APPROVED Mr. Dieber stated that, while the rate of employment growth as projected is consistent with job growth rates during recent decades, the rate of population growth is significantly higher. He explained that job growth in the past was absorbed both by the baby boom generation reaching working age and by more women and minorities entering the labor force. In coming the decades, without these two occurrences, the same increase in jobs will result in greater population growth through in -migration and rapid growth among certain minority ethnic groups. Mr. Dieber explained that population and employment growth forecasts were also prepared for individual municipalities within the Chicago region. The projections for Evanston indicate an increase in both households and jobs between 1990 and 2020. According to the forecasts, Evanston will grow to approximately 78,000 people by 2020 (from 73,233 in 1990) and to approximately 29,000 households (from 27,954 in 1990). The data used to make projections about local growth are drawn from statistics relating to new residential and commercial property construction. Following the Commission's discussion about the assumptions underlying NIPC's forecast methodology, Mr. Dieber explained that, although adjustments will need to be made in certain cases, he feels the forecasts for Evanston are a plausible depiction of growth. He indicated that the numbers would vary depending upon decisions made at the regional level about transportation investment. A new south suburban airport, for example, could shift greater job and household growth to the southern portion of the region. Mr. Dieber stated that ultimately, the work of forecasting population growth relates to public policy decisions. Beyond calculating how much growth could occur in the Chicago region, part of NIPC's process has involved initiating a regional debate about how public investment in transportation and economic development should occur. The region faces decisions about how land is used in the region and how far suburban expansion should continue, he stated. While there is likely no political support in the region for growth boundaries at the western fringes of development, he said, public policies can be used to encourage infill redevelopment in areas where disinvestment has occurred. Valerie Kretchmer asked if there were things Evanston and other older communities in the region can do to compete with new development at the suburban fringes. Mr. Dieber stated that, looking at the situation regionally, many of these communities could benefit by collaborating on development strategies and on identifying mutual strengths and weaknesses. IV. COMMITTEE REPORTS Ron Kobold stated that the Neighborhood Committee had begun considering initial analysis of Chicago Avenue vis-a-vis current conditions of the corridor. He stated that at its next meeting the committee would further define the scope of work to be completed for the project. The final product will be presented to the Plan Commission, he stated. Valerie Kretchmer stated that the Comprehensive General Plan Committee had considered the draft Economic Development Strategy and how it relates to the Comprehensive General Plan ORAFY NOTAPPROVED EVANSTON PLAN COMMISSION 1 JUNE 11, 1997 PAGE 3 of 4 currently under revision. She asked that anyone having comments about the document should transmit them to staff. She stated that the Associate Provost of Northwestern University will be joining the Comprehensive General Plan Committee on Thursday, June 26, 1997, to discuss issues related to the University's development plans. She invited all Commission members to attend. Doraine Anderson reported that the Planning and Development Committee had voted to introduce for City Council consideration the addition of new fence materials to the list of those already permitted under the Zoning Ordinance. The one opposing vote, she continued, had voiced concern about the combustibility and related fumes of poly -vinyl chloride fencing. Marty Norkett stated that the Economic Development Committee has several new members and is currently considering the draft Economic Development Strategy. In other matters, the committee has instructed staff to investigate the CTA owned property at Main Street and Chicago Avenue for potential City purchase. Per an Economic Development Committee recommendation, the Chamber of Commerce will receive monetary support from the City for the formation of a tourism/convention bureau. Dr. Stafford stated that the CDBG Committee had cancelled its June meeting at which funding priorities were to have been discussed. At its May meeting, the committee had discussed funding for maintenance of the newly improved downtown streetscapes. Doraine Anderson stated that Ald. Engelman had mentioned the selection of two proposals for multi -use entertainment/retail development in the Research Park. Finally, Dr. Stafford stated that the Commission would be receiving a report prepared by a Northwestern University student regarding the City's zoning authority of property owned by either of the two school districts. V. OLD BUSINESS -CONTINUATION OF PUBLIC HEARING, CASE ZPC 97-2-T(R) The Plan Commission considered amendments to the Zoning Ordinance's fence regulations (SECTION 6-4-6-7). This case was continued from the May meeting. On a motion made by Valerie Kretchmer, the Commission voted unanimously to continue the hearing until the July 9, 1997, meeting. A COPY OF THE VERBATIM TRANSCRIPT FOR CASE ZPC 97-2-T(R) WILL BE ON FILE IN THE ZONING DIVISION, ROOM 3700 OF THE EVANSTON CIVIC CENTER. VI. ADJOURNMENT Prior to adjournment, Robert Taylor suggested that the Commission consider the future of the District 65 headquarters at Ridge Avenue and Dempster Streets. He stated that he thought proposals should be sought for the buildings reuse prior to the School District officially placing the property on the market. Dennis Marino stated that, as a unit of government separate from the City of Evanston, the school district would seek such proposals on its own. It would be inappropriate for the City to undertake that effort, he stated. Mr. Taylor stated that it was appropriate for the Plan Commission to consider the long range use of land in the city. Valerie Kretchmer stated that the Plan Commission has no jurisdiction over the sale and redevelopment of the property at this time. N EVANSTON PLAN COMMISSION 1 JUNE 11,1997 PAGE 4 of 4 DRAFT, NOTAPPROVED Marty Norkett stated that the school district would issue the request for proposals. David Hart stated that at that time in the future when a zoning change were involved, the Plan Commission would be involved In considering the long term use of the property. The Commission adjourned at approximately 8:45 p.m. The next regular meeting of the Evanston Plan Commission Is scheduled for July 9, 1997, at 7:00 p.m., in Room 2403 of the Evanston Civic Center. Respectfully submitted, General Planner MINUTES ]EVA STON (PLAN COMMSSION Meeting of Wednesday, July 9, 199717:00 p.m. Evanston Civic Center, Room 2403 MEMBER PRESENT............................................................ Ooraine Anderson STAFF PRESENT........................................................... Christopher Wonders I. CALL TO ORDERIDECLARATION OF QUORUM At 7:05 p.m., Doraine Anderson declared that, due to lack of quorum, the hearing of matter ZPC 97-2-T(R) would be continued to the evening of August 13, 1997. That meeting will commence at 7:00 p.m. In room 2403 of the Evanston Civic Center. Respectfully submitted, • Christopher Wonders General Planner D ^ FT, [MDT APPROVED MINUTES EVANSTON PLAN CONM, ISSION Meeting of Wednesday, August 13, 1997 / 7:00 p.m. Evanston Civic Center, Room 2403 MEMBERS PRESENT ........ Doraine Anderson, Richard Cook, Sydney Grevas, David Hart, Valerie Kretchmer MEMBERS ABSENT .............................. Ron Kobold, Marty Norkett, Tom Stafford, Robert Taylor ASSOCIATE MEMBERS PRESENT ..................................... Nettie Johnson, Steve Knutson ASSOCIATE MEMBERS ABSENT ...................................... Philinda Coleman, John Lyman STAFF PRESENT .................................... Arthur Alterson, Marc Mylott, Christopher Wonders OTHERS PRESENT .................................................... Jim Repsold, Chuck Remen PRESIDING................................................................... David Hart, Chair I. CALL TO ORDERIDECLARATION OF QUORUM The meeting was called to order at 7:00 p.m., a quorum being present. II. CONSIDERATION OF MINUTES, JUNE 11 AND JULY 9, 1997 The minutes of both the June 11, 1997, and July 9, 1997, meetings were approved without correction on motions made by Doraine Anderson and seconded by Valerie Kretchmer. III. OLD BUSINESS -CONTINUATION OF PUBLIC HEARING, CASE ZPC 97-2 T(R) The Plan Commission considered amendments to the Zoning Ordinance's fence regulations (SECTION 6-4-6-7). This case was continued from the July 9, 1997, meeting. On a motion made by Doraine Anderson, seconded by Richard Cook, the Commission voted unanimously to continue the hearing to the meeting of October 8, 1997. A COPY OF THE VERBATIM TRANSCRIPT FOR CASE ZPC 97 2-T(R) IS ON FILE IN THE ZONING DIVISION, ROOM 3700 OF THE EVANSTON CIVIC CENTER. IV. COMMITTEE REPORTS Chris Wonders spoke briefly on the status of the Neighborhood Committee's analysis of Chicago Avenue. He stated that, at its July 22 meeting, the Committee discussed issues relating to existing zoning height limits at locations in the corridor where future redevelopment is considered probable. Part of the further analysis, he continued, will involve conducting a feasibility analysis of both parking and circulation capacity as well as utility infrastructure capacity for accommodating PNANSTON PLAN COMMISSION ! AUGUST 13. 1997 PAGE 2 of 2 DRAFT; NOTAPPROVED increased residential density in the corridor. He stated that the Committee also began discussing the need for a public forum through which members of the Commission, Aldermen, residents and community groups can begin to discuss issues related to the future of the Chicago Avenue corridor. Doraine Anderson summarized the Zoning Committee's meeting of July 30, 1997. She stated that a reference had been made to the Plan Commission to consider the regulation of tattoo parlors in Evanston. Jim Wolinski explained that the City Council's Health and Human Services Committee is referring the tattoo parlor issue to the Plan Commission in order to investigate the benefit of limiting tattoo parlors as special uses only in certain districts. Ms. Anderson concluded by saying that the Committee also still intends to investigate increasing the minimum parking requirement for multifamily residential construction and adaptive reuse to 1.5 spaces per unit. Valerie Kretchmer stated that, at the July 29 meeting of the Comprehensive General Plan Committee, members of the Preservation Commission, the Preservation League, the Women's Club, and others presented a draft of their ideas for important long term issues related to architectural preservation in Evanston. She added that one of the issues that for consideration in the Comprehensive General Plan is establishing historic conservation districts along with the existing historic districts in Evanston. At its next meeting, she stated, the Committee would be discussing issues related to the Comprehensive General Plan's policies for public buildings. V. COMMUNICATIONS David Hart stated that a communication had been received courtesy of Dr. Tom Stafford. The communication was a report prepared by a JD/MBA student at Northwestern University whose research indicates that the City of Evanston's land use controls do have authority over the District #65 headquarters. Mr. Hart also referenced the communication item regarding the proposed mixed use development in the Research Park area of Downtown Evanston. Chris Wonders stated that the Economic Development Committee will be hosting a public forum on September 3 to solicit public input on a number of key issues about the proposal including design, the future of the Levy Center, the future of the ComEd substation, and the potential of including performing arts space. Discussion took place on various aspects of the proposed development. VI. ADJOURNMENT The Commission adjourned at approximately 8:30 p.m. The next regular meeting of the Evanston Plan Commission is scheduled for September 10, 1997, at 7:00 p.m., in Room 2403 of the Evanston Civic Center. Respectfully submitted, 0 Chris General Planner DRAFIr, b®4 APPROVED MINUTES Meeting of Wednesday, September 10, 199717:00 p.m. Evanston Civic Center, Room 2403 MEMBERS PRESENT ........................ Doraine Anderson, Sydney Grevas, David Hart, Ron Kobold, Martin Norkett, Tom Stafford, Robert Taylor MEMBERS ABSENT ................................................ Valerie Kretchmer, Richard Cook ASSOCIATE MEMBERS PRESENT .................................................. Nettie Johnson ASSOCIATE MEMBERS ABSENT .......................... Philinda Coleman, Steve Knutson, John Lyman STAFF PRESENT .......................... . . ........ Arthur Alterson, Marc Mylott, Christopher Wonders OTHERS PRESENT ..... ............................................... Jim Repsold, Chuck Remen PRESIDING................................................................... David Hart, Chair CALL TO ORDERIDECLARATION OF QUORUM The meeting was called to order at 7:00 p.m., a quorum being present. II. CONSIDERATION OF MINUTES, AUGUST 13, 1997 The minutes of the August 13, 1997, meeting were approved without correction. Ilh COMMUNICATIONS Doraine Anderson noted the communication regarding the regional transportation planning process (Destination 2020) currently undertaken by the Chicago Area Transportation Study (CATS). Chris Wonders drew members attention to the list of public hearing dates included in the document and recommended that those interested in the process attend one of the meetings. He stated that drafts of the CATS plan would be available in the Evanston Planning Office. Tom Stafford stated that a representative of the Regional Transit Authority was present at the most recent City/Chamber meeting. At that meeting, Dr. Stafford continued, the RTA rep stated that mass transit links between Evanston and job centers in the northwest suburbs were not strong. Dr. Stafford stated that he had proposed private jitney services to strengthen those linkages. He acknowledged that safety and quality concerns would have to be considered before such a solution could be made official public policy. IV. NEW MATTERS: PUBLIC HEARING ZPC 97-3-T(R) David Hart convened the hearing of case ZPC 97-3-T(R), a consideration of amendments EVANSTON PLAN COMMISSION I September 10.1997 PAGE 2 of 3 DRAFT; NOTAPPROVED to all relevant chapters of the Zoning Ordinance regarding °tattoo parlors". Following the Commission's deliberation on the matter, Mr. Hart made a motion to recommend that "tattoo facility" be listed as a permitted use in zones D2, D3, D4, and RP, (provided the facility is located above the ground floor) and that "tattoo facility" be defined as follows: Anyplace, except a hospital or other facility operated by a licensed medical practitioner, where the act of puncturing the skin and inserting indelible colors to form a permanent design is performed, regardless of whether a fee is involved. The motion was seconded by Marty Norkett. The Commission voted 6 to 1 in favor of the motion. (Voting for the motion: David Hart, Doraine Anderson, Sydney Grevas, Ron Kobold, Martin Norkett, and Tom Stafford. Voting against: Robert Taylor.) A COPY OF THE VERBATIM TRANSCRIPT FOR CASE ZPC 97-3-T(R) IS ON FILE 1N THE ZONING DIVIsiON, ROOM 3700 OF THE EVANSTON CIVIC CENTER. V. OTHER NEW MATTERS Doraine Anderson moved for the reappointment of Steve Knutson for a third term as an associate member to the Plan Commission. Tom Stafford seconded the motion. Members voted unanimously for the reappointment. VI. COMMITTEE REPORTS Ron Kobold stated that the Neighborhood Committee discussed the merits of using computer modeling to assess impacts of different redevelopment scenarios along the Chicago Avenue corridor. He also stated that the Committee would be receiving traffic and parking analysis at its next meeting. In the Committee's discussion, members had proposed talking with the Chicago Transit Authority regarding the land it owns along the corridor and plans for the future. David Hart observed that the Committee's work was increasing in its complexity as well as participation from community representatives. Marty Norkett stated that the Howard Street Redevelopment Committee was also making progress and would be finalizing its vision statement. Doraine Anderson stated that the Zoning Committee would be discussing the merits of an overlay for permitted uses on Howard Street at its first meeting in September. At its second meeting, the Committee will finalize its recommendations for amendments to the fence ordinance. David Hart stated that two references to the Plan Commission were made by the City Council. Ms. Anderson commented on the numerous zoning issues that await consideration, including the Council references and the Commission's own references (such as increasing parking requirements in the Zoning Ordinance). Mr. Hart stated that, for the record, Council references should be responded to promptly by the Commission. Chris Wonders reported that the Comprehensive General Plan Committee was now working on reviewing the chapters under the heading of public facilities. The Committee will be sending drafts of chapters under the heading of Community Environment for Commission consideration. Those chapters will include the topics of community design, historic preservation, and the arts. He added that, overall, the Committee's goal will be to complete preparation of revisions to the general plan in the next four or five months. W DRAFT, NOT APPROVED EVANSTON PLAN COMMISSION J Septembtr 10,192? PAGE 3013 Marty Norkett stated that the Economic Development Committee has met several times on the matter of the proposed redevelopment in the Research Park. He mentioned that there are issues relating to landmark preservation, business relocation, performing arts, and the future of the Levy Center to be considered. Members stated that the public forum which the Committee hosted produced many useful comments about the pros and cons of the proposed development. Doraine Anderson suggested that the Economic Development Committee should negotiate with the developers to include redesigning and rehabilitating the Church Street viaduct as part of their proposals. Members discussed the need for rehabilitating all of Evanston's railroad viaducts. Dr. Stafford stated the merits of adopt -a -viaduct programs to encourage nearby businesses and residents to do the work that the transit authorities are unable to afford on their own. Dr. Stafford stated that the CD Committee had conducted its annual community needs hearing. He also stated that recent business had included funding issues related to a railroad embankment project in south Evanston and street and alley resurfacing programs. In October, the Committee will begin its weekly hearing of grant proposals. Dr. Stafford stated that the Public Place Names Committee had been called upon to consider honorarily naming a portion of Asbury Street between Greenleaf and Crain after former alderman, Jack Korshak. However, the matter never appeared before the Committee and had already appeared on the City Council's consent agenda. Ron Kobold suggested that the Commission begin thinking about new committee assignments, in consideration of the numerous committee positions held by Dr. Stafford whose second term ends at the end of January 1998. Staff agreed to place this matter on the October agenda. VII. ADJOURNMENT The Commission adjourned at approximately 8:30 p.m. The next regular meeting of the Evanston Plan Commission is scheduled for October 8, 1997, at 7:00 p.m., in Room 2403 of the Evanston Civic Center. Respectfully Christopher'W6n- dens General Planner Planning Division Community Development Department A APPROVED MINUTES EVANSTON PLAN COMMISSION Meeting of Wednesday, October 8, 1997 / 7:00 p.m. Evanston Civic Center, Room 2403 MEMBERS PRESENT ....................... Doraine Anderson, Richard Cook, Sydney Grevas, David Hart, Ron Kobold, Valerie Kretchmer, Martin Norkett, Robert Taylor MEMBERS ABSENT................................................................ Tom Stafford ASSOCIATE MEMBERS PRESENT ........................ Philinda Coleman, Steve Knutson, John Lyman ASSOCIATE MEMBERS ABSENT ................................................... Nettie Johnson STAFF PRESENT ....................... Arthur Alterson, Dennis Marino, Marc Mylott, Christopher Wonders OTHERS PRESENT................................................................ Jim Repsold PRESIDING................................................................... David Hart, Chair CALL TO ORDERIDECLARATION OF QUORUM David Hart called the meeting to order at 7:05 p.m., a quorum being present. II. CONSIDERATION OF MINUTES, SEPTEMBER 10, 1997 The minutes of the September 10, 1997, meeting were approved without correction. III. NEW MATTERS: COMPREHENSIVE GENERAL PLAN REVISION PROJECT Members discussed initial drafts of the Comprehensive General Plan's text on Community Environment issues, including chapters on building design, historic preservation, and the arts. Valerie Kretchmer, chair of the Comprehensive General Plan Committee, updated the Commission on the project. She stated that the committee has met recently with various members of citizen boards and committees as well as City staff to discuss topics such as historic preservation policies, public building and parks policies, and community arts issues. These discussions shaped the drafts that were presented to the Commission for discussion. She introduced Jessica Deis, chair of the Preservation Commission, and stated that a special committee of the Preservation Commission worked on preparing its own draft revisions to the current Comprehensive General Plan's historic preservation chapter. Ms. Kretchmer stated that the Committee will eventually be putting all drafts together and editing them to make sure that the complete document is balanced and coherent. Members began with the chapter on Community Design and Landscaping. Doraine Anderson suggested several editorial changes. She requested that bus shelters and benches be included in policies about streetscape elements. 14 EVANSTON PLAN COMMISSION 1 October 8, 1997 PAGE 2 of 4 APPROVED Chris Wonders stated that the text relating to building design and appearance review is a reiteration of a document entitled Building Design and Appearance Review, prepared by the Plan Commission in 1993. This document references the process related to the Site Plan and Appearance Review Committee. Ms. Anderson stated that the City should investigate the track record of the Site Plan and Appearance Review Committee vis-a-vis its success in influencing proposed building designs. Based upon this track record, at a point in the near future, the City then should consider the value of establishing binding appearance review standards. Members discussed the issue of contemporary design in historic districts. Ms. Anderson stated that the Comprehensive General Plan should not encourage contemporary design in historic districts but should allow it as long as it is sensitive to the existing character. Steve Knutson stated that the general feeling on this issue is that contemporary design should be used instead of attempting to emulating historic character. Richard Cook stated that he did not think the Plan Commission should be involved too directly in this issue. Carlos Ruiz stated that the Preservation Commission does not discourage contemporary design as long as it contextually works with the existing character. Jessica Deis suggested that removing the word encourage but keeping the word allow in the draft text would be in keeping with the sentiment of the Preservation Commission. Members discussed the meaning of the word contemporary with regards to residential architecture. Ron Kobold stated that the objectives for community design should include recognition of the importance of renovating existing structures. He also stated that references to specific statistics, such as the number of trees replaced per year by the City Forestry Division, should not be included in this long range document. In his opinion, references of this sort should be kept more general in order to prevent the document from quickly dating itself. Robert Taylor stated that photographs of Evanston's historic buildings will clearly depict the existing ambience of Evanston neighborhoods. Members next discussed the draft revisions to the Historic Preservation chapter. Ms. Anderson suggested that, along with the policy statement regarding the designation of new historic districts, an example of such a new district could be a women's historic district that would include in its list the Women's Club of Evanston and the Willard property on Chicago Avenue. Carlos Ruiz added that a special committee called PITCH (Preserving Integrity through Culture and History) has been working with Alderman Kent (5th Ward) to identify cultural and historic resources in Evanston's west side. This effort, he said, is especially interested in identifying the historic contributions of African Americans in Evanston. Ms. Anderson stated that Dr. Stafford has had an ongoing concern about future subdivision of large lots. She stated that the Comprehensive General Plan should recommend preserving the open spaces created by these properties because of their benefit to neighborhood ambience. Ms. Deis agreed that open space public and private open space should be protected as much as possible. Valerie Kretchmer stated that the lengthy portion of text in the draft of preservation chapter should be relocated in the document's introduction. John Lyman asked about the property tax freeze that is available for encouraging the renovation of historic properties. He suggested that this program should be more aggressively marketed. Members finally discussed the draft revisions to the Arts chapter of the Comprehensive General Plan. Ron Kobold stated that the text should not specify the amount of rent charged to the APPROVED EVANSTON PLAN COMMISSION I October B, 1997 PAGE 3 of 4 Evanston Arts Center. Members agreed. Doraine Anderson suggested that the Pick Staiger concert hall be identified in the tent as a University facility. Sydney Grevas clarified that Evmark should be identified only as a marketing agency because it is not involved in the management of downtown properties and businesses. Members discussed the feasibility of affordable artist studio space in Evanston and the difficulty in establishing such space due to high property costs and taxes. IV. PUBLIC HEARING ZPC 97-3-T(R) David Hart closed the hearing of case ZPC 97-2-T(R) which consisted of a number of proposed amendments to the Zoning Ordinance's fence regulations (SECTION 6-4-6-7). (The case was continued from the August 13 meeting of the Plan Commission but, following several changes to the proposed amendment, was renoticed under a new docket number.) Mr. Hart then opened the new hearing, CASE ZPC 97-3-T (R). Following deliberation on the matter, Doraine Anderson moved to recommend City Council's adoption of the fence ordinance as modified during the discussion that evening. Richard Cook seconded the motion. Members voted unanimously for the motion. A COPY OF THE VERBATIM TRANSCRIPT FOR CASE ZPC 97-3-T(R) IS ON FILE IN THE ZONING DIVISION, ROOM 3700 OF THE EVANSTON CIVIC CENTER. V. OTHER NEW MATTERS David Hart reminded members that following the completion of Dr. Stafford's second term in January, a new liaison will be needed to the CD Committee. Robert Taylor stated that he will be leaving Evanston and that he anticipates the November meeting being his last with the Commission. Mr. Hart thanked Mr. Taylor for his service on the Commission. VI. COMMITTEE REPORTS Members gave brief summaries of their recent activities. Ron Kobold stated that the Neighborhood Committee was still making progress on the Chicago Avenue study. Marty Norkett stated that the Economic Development Committee had discussed neighborhood business district improvement funds. Dennis Marino added that the funds amounted to $75,000 per year to be allocated as part of the annual capital improvement program for use in small business districts throughout the city. Although the program had been approved over a year ago, he stated, the members of the Economic Development Committee had delayed its implementation to allow time for the completion of the Economic Development Strategy. On behalf of the Zoning Committee, Doraine Anderson reported that several more zoning related aldermanic references have been made to the Plan Commission. Martin Norkett stated that the Economic Development Committee will work towards recommending one of the two Research Park developers by early December, Dennis Marina stated that both developers had modified their proposals to varying degrees and would present their final plans at a special meeting of the Economic Development Committee on October 29, 1997. Chris Wonders added that at 7:30 on the November 12, the Economic Development Committee would conduct a follow-up meeting to listen to citizen comments on the proposals. EVANSTON PLAN COMMISSION I October 8,1"T PAdE 4 of 4 APPROVED Mr. Marino said that a committee made up of representatives from the City, Alderman Kent, neighborhood residents and businesses, the high school, and First Chicago/NBD Bank has been working to address issues related to the Church Street/Dodge Avenue business district. This area, he stated, is a priority planning area for the City. To date, meetings have focused on determining what the neighborhood thinks should happen --in terms of new businesses and real estate developments in the area. VII. ADJOURNMENT The Commission adjourned at approximately 10:00 p.m. The next regular meeting of the Evanston Plan Commission is scheduled for November 12, 1997, at 7:00 p.m., in Room 2403 of the Evanston Civic Center. Respectfully submitted, Chr op -her n ers General Planner Planning Division Community Development Department October 29, 1997 DRAFT, NOT APPROVED MINUTES IEVANSTON PLAN OOMMI SSION Meeting of Wednesday, November 12, 1997 / 7:00 p.m. Evanston Civic Center, Room 2403 MEMBERS PRESENT ....................... Doraine Anderson, Richard Cook, Sydney Grevas, David Hart, Valerie Kretchmer, Martin Norkett, Robert Taylor, Tom Stafford MEMBERS ABSENT................................................................. Ron Kobold ASSOCIATE MEMBERS PRESENT ..................................... Philinda Coleman, John Lyman ASSOCIATE MEMBERS ABSENT ...................................... Nettie Johnson, Steve Knutson STAFF PRESENT........................................................... Christopher Wonders OTHERS PRESENT................................................................ Jim Repsold PRESIDING................................................................... David Hart, Chair I. CALL TO ORDER/DECLARATION OF QUORUM David Hart called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m., a quorum being present. II. CONSIDERATION OF MINUTES, OCTOBER 8, 1997 The minutes of the October 8, 1997, meeting were approved without correction. III. COMMITTEE REPORTS Members reviewed recent committee activities. Doraine Anderson stated that the Zoning Committee was recommending several hearings for the December Plan Commission meeting. Those hearings would address a number of aldermanic references that had been made recently. Dr. Stafford reported that the Planning and Development Committee had disagreed with the Plan Commission's recommendation to allow tattoo parlors in Downtown Evanston. Marty Norkett stated that the Neighborhood Planning Committee was continuing its work on Chicago Avenue by examining potential alternatives for key sites along the corridor. Robert Taylor added that the Committee had also discussed various methods for stimulating public dialogue about the future of the area. Valerie Kretchmer reported that the Comprehensive General Plan Committee would be meeting with the Planning and Development Committee to present an update on the Comprehensive General Plan revision project. Dr. Stafford reviewed recent discussions of the Planning and Development Committee. He stated that its most recent meeting EVANSTON PLAN COMMISSION ) November 12. 1997 PAGE 2 of 2 DRAFT, IVOTAPPROMD focused closely on property standards. He also stated that the Committee had discussed the future of the former Main Street Newsstand. Valerie Kretchmer stated that a zoning change would be necessary to convert the site from an open space district to a business district. Dr. Stafford stated that the City Council had continued the moratorium on tattoo parlors. Dr. Stafford reported on the final recommendations of the CDBG Committee which had met the previous night. He said that the Committee made recommendations for dispensing $2.6 million of federal funds to thirty-seven local programs and projects. Staff presented a spreadsheet indicating the individual projects and the Committee's recommendations for funding. Dr. Stafford reiterated the need to find a replacement for his seat at the Committee. He concluded by stating that the next meeting of the Public Place Names Committee would be scheduled to meet in February, pending issues requiring consideration. Marty Norkett commented on the status of the Economic Development Committee and Its consideration of the Research Park proposals. He stated that the committee is still working through the various aspects of the project, including traffic, retail mix, and design. Doraine Anderson asked if the Arts Council had considered the old Varsity theater facility as potentially viable for a performing arts center. Chris Wonders stated that the facility had been examined in the past and that a great deal of repair work was needed. Robert Taylor stated that he had notified the mayor that this would be his last meeting as a Plan Commissioner. He offered some parting comments about his work with the Plan Commission and about the future of Evanston. He stated that he was concerned about the amount of work needing attention and the shortage of staff resources. He reiterated his particular concern about the need for greater planning attention to the area of Evanston north of Simpson and west of Green Bay Road, including the canal. He stated that the area offered tremendous real estate potential but that perhaps it needed City assistance In order to stimulate development. David Hart thanked Mr. Taylor for his thoughts and for his time on the Plan Commission. IN . ADJOURNRiENT The Commission adjourned at 7:30 p.m. The next regular meeting of the Evanston Plan Commission is scheduled for December 10, 1997, at 7:00 p.m., in Room 2403 of the Evanston Civic Center. Res ct 11 su itt UZI C risto fhe nders Pe General Planner Planning Divislon Community Development Department December 5. 1997 t DRAFT, NOT APPROVED MINUTES EV2UNTSTON PLAN COMMISSION Meeting of Wednesday, December 10, 1997 / 7:00 p.m. Evanston Civic Center, Room 2403 MEMBERS PRESENT ............... Doraine Anderson, Richard Cook, Sydney Grevas, David Hart, Ron Kobold, Martin Norkett, Tom Stafford MEMBERS ABSENT .................................................... Valerie Kretchmer ASSOCIATE MEMBERS PRESENT ................................ Steve Knutson, John Lyman ASSOCIATE MEMBERS ABSENT ............................ Nettie Johnson, Philinda Coleman STAFF PRESENT ................................ ......... .. Judith Aiello, Arthur Alterson, Sally Luskin, Marc Mylott, Christopher Wonders OTHERS PRESENT .............................. Aid. Moran (6th), Craig Sharp, Chris Thomas, Ron Fleckman, Alex Sproul, Jim Repsold PRESIDING........................................................... David Hart, Chair I. CALL TO ORDERIDECLARATION OF QUORUNI The meeting was called to order at 7:00 p.m., a quorum being present. 11. CONSIDERATION OF MINUTES, NO'VEMBER 12, 1997 David Hart requested that the committee reports portion of the November 12 minutes be amended as follows: that the comments of Robert Taylor found in the last paragraph be changed to read, "He stated that he was concerned about the amount of work needing attention and what he believed to be the shortage of staff resources." Doraine Anderson moved approval of the minutes as amended. Motion passed unanimously. III. ELECTION OF 1998 OFFICERS David Hart stated that the Executive Committee had met as a Nominating Committee a week earlier to discuss potential candidates for chair and vice -chair. It was the recommendation of the Committee that Marty Norkett be nominated as chair and Ron Kobold as vice -chair. The floor was opened for other nominations and discussion. No other nominations were heard. Doraine Anderson moved approval of the Nominating Committee's recommendation. Richard Cook seconded the motion. Motion passed unanimously. EVANSTON PLAN COMMISSION I December 10, 1997 DPAFT, NorAmRDVED PAGE 2of5 IV. PUBLIC HEARING OF PROPOSED ZONING AMENDMENTS A. ZPC 97-7-T David Hart convened the hearing of case ZPC 97-7-T, a consideration of City Council reference to amend section 6-9-3-8 of the Zoning Ordinance so as to reduce the maximum permitted height within the BZ Business District. Following the Commission's deliberation on the matter, Doraine Anderson moved that the Commission recommend to the City Council that no change be made to the Zoning Ordinance with regards to this matter. Sydney Grevas seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously. A COPY OF THE VERBATIM TRANSCRIPT FOR CASE ZPC 97-7--T IS ON FILE IN THE ZONING DIVISION, ROOM .3700 OF THE EVANSTON CIVIC CENTER. Following the hearing, Alderman Moran stated for the record that, although he had made the initial reference for consideration of this matter, he had not been notified of the Zoning Committee's scheduled discussion. Following closure of ZPC 97-7-T, Marty Norkett left the meeting. B. ZPC 97-5-M Mr. Hart convened the hearing of case ZPC 97-5-M, consideration of City Council reference to rezone from OS (Open Space District) to 131 (Business District) the property commonly referred to as 860 Chicago Avenue. Following the Commission's deliberation on the matter, Doraine Anderson moved that the Commission recommend that City Council grant the rezoning as proposed, contingent upon the City's final purchase of the property in question. The motion was seconded by Richard Cook. The Commission voted unanimously in favor of the motion. A COPY OF THE VERBATIM TRANSCRIPT FOR CASE ZPC 97- S-M lS ON FILE /N THE ZONING DIVISION, Room .3700 OF THE EmNSTON CIVIC CENTER. C. ZPC 97-6-T Mr. Hart convened the hearing of case ZPC 97-6-T, a consideration of proposed amendments to the Zoning Ordinance so as to change the maximum permitted height within R1, Z, 3, and 4 residential districts from 35 feet or 21i stories, whichever is less, to 35 feet or 3 stories, whichever is less. Marc Mylott stated that staff sought a continuation of the case in order to clarify certain definitions pertaining to "half story." David Hart moved that the matter be 00 DPAR; NDT eyPROVED EVANSTON PLAN COMMISSION I December 10, 1997 PAGE 3 of 5 continued. Richard Cook seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously. D. ZPC 97-8-T Mr. Hart convened the hearing of case ZPC 97-8-T, a consideration of proposed amendments to the Zoning Ordinance so as to require a recommendation from the ZBA and final approval of City Council of any variation application for building height that exceeds 50 feet, including within that measurement any height exempted from the definition of building height due to parking. Following the Commission's deliberation on the matter, Tom Stafford moved that the Commission recommend that the City Council adopt the amendment as proposed. Sydney Grevas seconded the motion. The Commission voted 4 to 2 in favor of the motion. (Voting for the motion: Tom Stafford, Sydney Grevas, Ron Kobold, and Doraine Anderson. Voting against: David Hart and Richard Cook). Because the Commission's rules require a concurring majority vote of at least five (5) members in order to make a recommendation, the matter was continued until the January 14 meeting when absent members Valerie Kretchmer and Marry Norkett will have read the transcripts and will then be able to cast their votes on the matter. A COPY OF THE VERBATIM TRANSCRIPT FOR CASE ZPC 97-8- T IS ON FILE IN THE ZONING DIVISION, ROOM 3700 OF THE EVANSTON CI V/C CENTER. Is% CONSIDERATION Or AMENDMENTS TO HUD CONSOLIDATED PLAN Sally Lufkin, Community Development Block Grants (CDBG) Administrator, was present to discuss proposed amendments to the HUD Consolidated Plan. Dr. Stafford stated that the CD Committee, which oversees the CDBG allocation process, had conducted a public hearing the preceding evening. At that meeting, the CD Committee agreed to recommend City Council's adoption of the proposed amendments and action plan for funding various community development projects. Dr. Stafford commented on the needs of the homeless as reflected in the document. He emphasized the need to be proactive rather than reactive in considering how public policy, including zoning, affects affordable housing and homelessness. Ms. Lufkin drew the Commission's attention to Appendix D of the document, a required component that addresses impediments to fair housing choice in Evanston. In preparing this portion of the plan, staff examined the City's Fair Housing Ordinance, Zoning Ordinance, and other factors (such as transportation and cost) to determine how they impact housing choice in the community. Staff EVANSTON PLAN COMMISSION J December 10. 1997 PAGE 4 of 5 DRAFT, NOT'AWROVED also conducted a round table in September with real estate professionals and community leaders who work with this issue to further assess the issue of Impediments to fair housing choice. Ms. Lufkin stated that most of the projects Included In the action plan had been funded previously. One of the new projects she highlighted was the Howard Streetscape Improvement, a intergovernmental agreement between Evanston and the City of Chicago to make physical improvements along the Howard Street corridor. The project was allocated approximately $160,000 of CDBG funds. David Hart commented that Tom Stafford's last meeting would take place on January 14. A successor representative to the CD Committee would be needed at that time. Dr. Stafford suggested that it would be Ideal if the successor could accompany him at the January meeting of the CD Committee. Richard Cook moved that the Commission recommend City Council's adoption of the amended HUD Consolidated Plan. Tom Stafford seconded the motion. Motion passed unanimously. VI. OTHER BUSINESS David Hart distributed an application for associate membership submitted by former Plan Commissioner Ann Dienner. Members decided to vote on the application at the present time. Doralne Anderson moved approval of the application. Richard Cook seconded the motion. Motion passed unanimously. ViI. COINLNUTTEE REPORTS Ron Kobold stated that the Neighborhood Committee was continuing its review of Chicago Avenue corridor. He asserted that, in his opinion, the dialogue needs to move away from the issue of building height and consider broader Issues of mass and open space as part of the equation. David Hart stated that the Comprehensive General Plan Committee had met with the Planning and Development Committee to discuss project status. At the meeting, members of the committee expressed interest in considering the long term viability of the west industrial zoning districts. Also the issue of affordable housing was discussed with a focus on the need to work collaboratively with the Housing Commission to establish a working definition of what constitutes affordable housing. Mr. Hart concluded stating that the Committee had recently discussed issues relating to public utilities and streets. Dr. Stafford stated that the Public Place Names Committee would be meeting the following week to consider honorarily naming a street after Allan "Bo" Price, President of the Fleetwood Jourdain Advisory Board and former leader of the Evanston Drum and Bugle Corps. DPAF7; NOT APPROVED VH1. ADJOURNMENT The Commission adjourned at 9:35 Evanston Plan Commission is scheduled Room 2403 of the Evanston Civic Center. Respectfully Submitted, 1�zl ! _ ChristopWr onders General Planner, Planning Division Community Development Department EVANSTON PLAN COMMISSION / December 10, 1997 PACE 5of5 p.m. The next regular meeting of the for January 14, 1998, at 7:00 p.m., in December 29.1997 MINUTES EV2UNS7CON PLAN COMMISSION Meeting of Wednesday, January 14, 1998 / 7:00 p.m. Evanston Civic Center, Room 2403 MEMBERS PRESENT ............... Dora€ne Anderson, Richard Cook, Sydney Grevas, David Hart, Ron Kobold, Valerie Kretchmer, John Lyman, Martin Norkett, Tom Stafford ASSOCIATE MEMBERS PRESENT ................................ Ann Dienner, Steve Knutson ASSOCIATE MEMBERS ABSENT ............................ Philinda Coleman, Nettle Johnson STAFF PRESENT ............................ Arthur Alterson, Marc Mylott, Christopher Wonders OTHERS PRESENT........................................................ Jim Repsold PRESIDING......................................................... Marty Norkett, Chair I. CALL TO ORDER / DECLARATION OF QUORUM The meeting was called to order at 7:00 p.m., a quorum being present. I1. CONSIDERATION] OF MINUTES, DECEMBER 10, 1997 The minutes of the December 10, 1997, meeting were approved without correction. III. COMMUNICATIONS The Commission received several communications, including a letter from former Commissioner Robert Taylor and a letter from Barry Realty regarding the consideration of maximum building heights allowed in B2 zoning districts. Chris Wonders stated that, because the letter from Barry Realty was received after the close of the Plan Commission's hearing on the matter, it would be forwarded to the Council Planning and Development Committee along with the Plan Commission recommendation. Members discussed a third communication, an article from Chicago Magazine and the Metropolitan Planning Council that compared property tax rates of two hundred Chicago area municipalities. Valerie Kretchmer noted that, while Evanston was ranked among the highest taxed communities, many of the communities taxed at similar or higher rates --particularly those in southern Cook County --provide far lower levels of municipal services than Evanston. EVANSTON PLAN COMMISSION / January 14, 1998 APPROVED PAGE 2 of 4 IV. NEW BUSINE- SS: COMMITTEE REPORTS Valerie Kretchmer spoke about the most recent activities of the Comprehensive General Plan Committee. She stated that the Committee would be meeting on January 22 to discuss transportation issues, particularly those related to bicycling, pedestrian policies, and mass transit. She added that the Committee had finished draft revisions of the public facilities section of the plan and would bring it to the full Commission for discussion. Chris Wonders stated that, of the three remaining chapters to be reviewed by the Comprehensive General Plan Committee, the Parking Chapter is the most complex. He added that, along with the City's Traffic Engineer, Mr. David Jennings, the Comprehensive General Plan Committee intends to engage the City Parking Committee In a discussion about long range parking policy. Doraine Anderson commented on the Zoning Committee. She congratulated her fellow committee members and thanked staff for helping to complete four separate zoning hearings at the December meeting of the Commission. The next meeting of the Zoning Committee, she added, is scheduled for February 4, 1998. The Commission asked staff to investigate procedures for improving the communication process between aldermen and the Plan Commission in regard to zoning references. Ron Kobold commented on the Neighborhood Planning Committee, the next meeting of which was scheduled for the following Wednesday. Marty Norkett stated that the Howard Street Redevelopment Committee would also be meeting the following week to finalize its vision statement for the redevelopment of that corridor. He stated that demolition was commencing at the Gateway Redevelopment site. With regards to the site of the former Main Street Newsstand, Doraine Anderson asked about the status of the pending sale of the property. Marty Norkett commented that the Economic Development Committee had recommended that the City buy the property and reopen the building as a newsstand, pending the report of the appraiser. He added that there were also environmental concerns needing further attention. Mr. Norkett continued with his report from the Economic Development Committee. He said that the Research Park redevelopment project was moving forward with negotiations and the drafting of the redevelopment agreement. At the most recent Economic Development Committee meeting, he continued, representatives from the Joseph Freed Company were present with a proposal for redeveloping the Evanston Plaza at Dempster/Dodge. The Committee would be investigating potential financial assistance measures for the redevelopment. APPROVED EVANSTON PLAN COMMISSION / January 14, 1998 PAGE 3of4 Steve Knutson commented that he received a request for proposals from District #65 regarding the rehabilitation of their headquarters facility at Dempster and Ridge. He stated that they are asking for three scenarios, all of which keep the administration at that location. Valerie Kretchmer, who also received the rfp, said that the specifications of the request do ask for a list of other potential locations for headquarter operations. Dr. Stafford commented on the Public Place Names Committee, stating that plans for an honorary street named after Alan "Bo" Price were moving forward. Likewise, a proposal came out of City Council to name a bench after the late Larry Perkins. Members d15CUUed the sianificant contribution that Mr. Perkins had made to Evanston. They agreed that the Citv should consider doina more in commemoratina him than simoly namina a_bPch in his honor. Mr. Norkett-stated that the Public Place Names Committee should consider this maner and that he would s=lo it as the new chl[r of that Committee. Dr. Stafford continued, stating that the CD Committee had not met in January. At Planning and Development Committee meetings, fences were discussed in brief, but the Plan Commission's recommendation for amending the Zoning Ordinance vis-a-vis permitted fences was yet to be considered. At a later date, the P&D Committee would be taking up the issue of sunset provisions for special uses when a property is abandoned for a period of one year or more. Chris Wonders stated that, with regards to the CD Committee and the 1998- 99 CDBG allocations, the City had received more federal dollars than anticipated. The difference was allocated to several projects, including the air-conditioning system at the Noyes Cultural Arts Center, the Evanston Storefront Program, and the social service agency known as BeHIV (Better Existence with HIV). Marty Norkett led the Commission in congratulating Dr. Stafford on his six years with the Plan Commission. Staff and the Commission wished him well and thanked him for his years of service. Dr. Stafford was presented with a plaque signed by the members of the Plan Commission. Members discussed future Committee assignments. Ann Dienner stated that she would like to be a part of the Comprehensive General Plan Committee and the Zoning Committee. Steve Knutson stated that he would like to join the Neighborhood Committee and remain on the Zoning Committee. No decision was made on Dr. Stafford's replacement on the CD Committee. Doraine Anderson and Ann Dienner stated that they would attend the P&D Committee meetings in an informal capacity in order to report back on its activities. Mr. Norkett stated that individual committees should themselves address the issue of rotating chairmanships. 'V. OLD BUSINESS. CONTINUATION Or PUBLIC HEARINGS EVANSTON PLAN COMMISSION J January 14, 1998 PAGE 4 of 4 APPROVED-AMCaW Norkett reconvened the hearing of case ZPC 97-8-T. At the December meeting, two voting members were absent which prevented a needed majority of five votes in order to make a recommendation on the case. The vote on the motion to recommend amending the Zoning Ordinance so as to grant final authority to City Council on applications for height variances in excess of 50 feet stood at four (4) to two (2) In favor of the motion. Mr. Norkett and Ms. Kretchmer stated for the record that they had read the transcript and that they were prepared to vote. Both voted in favor of the motion, bringing the vote to six (6) to two (2). The Commission then considered case ZPC 97-6-T, consideration of amending the Zoning Ordinance In order to clarify definitions pertaining to attic and half -story. Members voted unanimouslyto approve the motion to recommend approval of the proposed amendment. Copies of the verbatim transcripts for both cases are on file in the Zoning Division, Room 3700 of the Evanston Civic Center. VI. ADJOURNMENT The Commission adjourned at 8:50 p.m. The next regular meeting of the Evanston Plan Commission is scheduled for February 11, 1998, at 7:00 p.m., in Room 2403 of the Evanston Civic Center. Respectfully Submitted, February 12, 1998 (amended) Christvf5Fle orders General Planner, Planning Division Community Development Department r 6W nRAFT. N©T AF'PR(�VFDD MINUTES 1EVANSTON PLAN COMMISSION Meeting of Wednesday, February 11, 199817:00 p.m. Evanston Civic Center, Room 2403 MEMBERS PRESENT .......... Doraine Anderson, Richard Cook, Sydney Grevas, David Hart, Valerie Kretchmer, John Lyman, Marty Norkett MEMBERS ABSENT .......................................... Ron Kobold ASSOCIATE MEMBERS PRESENT . Phiiinda Coleman, Ann Dienner, Steve Knutson ASSOCIATE MEMBERS ABSENT ............................. Nettie Johnson STAFF PRESENT .................. Judith Aiello, Arthur Alterson, Dennis Marino, Max Rubin, Christopher Wonders OTHERS PRESENT ..................... Bill Smith, Jim Repsold, Dave Andrews PRESIDING .......................................... Marty Norkett, Chair I. CALL TO ORDER 1 DECLARATION OF QUORUM The meeting was called to order at 7:00 p.m., a quorum being present. CONSIDERATION OF MINUTES, JANUARY 14, 1998 The minutes of the January 14, 1998, meeting were approved with an amendment to include in more detail the discussion of the memorial for Lawrence B. Perkins. Perkins, who had recently passed -away, was an architect of significant renown, an active contributor to the Evanston community, and a former member of the Plan Commission. Although the City had decided to name a park bench in his honor, the Commission members urged the Citizens Advisory Committee on Public Place Names to pursue a more elaborate tribute. 111. COMMUNICATIONS Judith Aiello (Assistant City Manager) and Max Rubin (Acting Public Works Director) presented a summary of the proposed capital improvement program (CIP). Ms. Aiello explained that the five year program includes both the capital budget for the coming fiscal year and the capital improvement plan for the following four years. The City Council will approve the projects for the first year, but projects listed in years two through five are evolving priorities that will be reevaluated In each year's capital planning process. The CIP is prepared by an interdepartmental team that addresses issues relating to public buildings; parks, recreation and forestry; city utilities; neighborhood economic development; environmental issues (e.g., city -owned underground storage tank remediation); information systems; streets and parking. Each department is asked to think about capital priorities and to present them to the team. The team then prioritizes projects to determine what receives funding in the coming year. s EVANSTON PLAN COMMISSION 1 February 11, 1998 PAGE 2 of 6 DRAFr; NOT APPROVED Evanston's capital needs far exceed budget constraints, Ms. Aiello stated, and the team priorities projects according to certain criteria. Priority projects include those that will address life safety Issues, imminent infrastructure failures, public safety issues (police and fire), state and federal mandates. Also prioritized are projects that require a certain level of local funding in order to quality for matching grant dollars or that will negatively impact local revenue generation if not addressed. Ms. Aiello stated that, in times of fiscal constraints, the issues that rise to the surface are frequently those that have become crises. According to the current CIP, parks, recreation and forestry projects will be major priorities in the next five years. Likewise, there are a number of issues related to public buildings such as renovations to the police/fire station at Lake and Elmwood, and the consideration of the future of the Civic Center. There are also major street and alley paving needs. The total cost to implement the entire five year CIP is $94 million. In the area of economic development, the program will continue to address neighborhood economic development needs as well as infrastructure Improvements in the research park and downtown areas. One downtown project is the improvement of fountain square which has become deteriorated. With regards to environmental issues, the sewer improvement program --underway since the late 19BOs--continues to be a major component of the plan. The total project will cost $160 million and has been implemented in order to take advantage of low interest loans from the state. The project will remedy chronic basement flooding issues and involves installing new interceptors, sewer linings, sewer mains. The water plant which is over one hundred years old needs both exterior repairs and replacement of machinery and systems In the plant. Ms. Aiello described several information systems projects that will be implemented. Although not seen by the public on a daily basis, she said, the information systems used by City agencies need to be updated so as to work on integrated databases to improve efficiency. Ms. Aiello stated that new information system equipment will also assist in criminal investigations and parking enforcement. As with computer systems worldwide, Evanston's software needs to be rectified in order to process data in the year 2000 and beyond. The City began surveying the overall needs for information system upgrades several months ago and has been delayed because of the amount of time needed to put out "fires" —system breakdowns that occur everyday. John Lyman commented on the severity of the 2000 non-compliance issue In terms of the City's ability to process revenues at the turn of the century. Max Rubin stated that there were Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) improvements that would be made at the Noyes Cultural Arts Center, the Civic Center, and the police headquarters. One of those improvements would include an elevator at the Noyes Cultural Arts Center. Judith Aiello stated that the City Council had discussed the issue of street lighting at great length. The discussion focused on the need for brighter lights in many neighborhoods. Improvements that are being considered would involve installing brighter elements in the present replica Tallmadge fixtures. On the subject of parks and recreation improvements, Ms. Aiello stated that the City hired a consultant two years ago to undertake a large scale survey of attitudes and recreational interest. The next step has involved taking the results of the survey, conducting a complete inventory of parks facilities and putting together master planned improvements to renovate recreation areas and facilities. James Park is an example where such a full scale renovation project has been planned and will be implemented over several years. Some examples include the Robert Crown Center, Lovelace Park, and Tallmadge Park. She stated that park improvement planning always incorporates neighborhoods in the process. Max Rubin highlighted the capital improvement issues related to the Civic Center. He stated that $15 million would be needed to bring this building up to current code including heating/ventilation/air conditioning (HVAC) improvements and installation of sprinklers. He stated that all of this work would have to be done while employees were still in the building. He stated that the City essentially needs 30,000 less square feet than is found in the Civic Center presently. The initial architectural assessment of the facility is due back in April. One of the subsequent determinations may be that it is more cost effective to relocate City offices to another building, an option that may include new construction. Ms. Aiello outlined transportation improvements including installation of optical preemptors --devices that allow emergency vehicles to control traffic lights as they approach intersections. Traffic circle DRAFT, NOT APPROVED EVANSTON PLAN COMMISSION / February 11, 1998 PAGE 3 of 8 experiments using large containers and planters have been undertaken in a number of neighborhoods. These trials will be in place from six to nine months In order to assess neighborhood reaction. So far, neighborhoods indicate that the circles have slowed traffic only slightly. Fallowing the trial period, if the neighborhood has deemed the circles satisfactory, the City will replace the temporary improvements with more permanent fixtures. Another ongoing policy has been the use of street widening when some paving projects are undertaken in order to increase the supply of on -street parking. Following the presentation, David Hart asked what the role of the Plan Commission was regarding the CIP. Judith Aiello stated that the Plan Commission's review and comment on the CIP is appropriate in light of the Comprehensive General Plan revision. David Hart agreed, stating that the CIP should take the Comprehensive General Plan as its guide and therefore the two documents should be consistent In their thinking. IV. NEW MATTERS: DISCUSSION OF GREAT BANK-EVANSTON PROJECT Marty Norkett stated that the Neighborhood Committee had held a special meeting to meet with representatives from Great Bank -Evanston. At the meeting, two different plans for the redevelopment of the northeast comer of Main Street and Chicago Avenue were presented. Mr. Bill Smith, a member of the board of directors at the bank, spoke before the Commission on the project. He stated that the bank owns the parking lot at the site and uses part of it for a drive-thru facility. The bank leases the building at the northwest corner of Main Street and Chicago Avenue for its office space. Because the lease ends in March of 1998, the bank has been considering the future of its office arrangement. Mr. Smith stated that he had acted as a broker to try to bring together Ideas from different developers for the redevelopment of the parking lot as a new facility for the bank. The initial proposal ("Plan A") would involve an eight story building with ground floor retail/banking and a drive-thru window. The upper floors would consist of sixty condominiums units. Mr. Smith stated that prices for the condominiums would range from $135,000 to roughly $385,000 for the penthouse apartments. Underground parking would be provided for the condominiums and surface parking in the rear for bank customers. At the Site Plan and Appearance Review Committee, he continued, conceptual approval for the development was given. The design of the building would use a series of setbacks from the sidewalk that would have been used to stagger the southern facade of the building in order to make it appear less massive. Because the zoning ordinance requires construction to the lot line in B districts, the architects were told that the setbacks would necessitate obtaining a variance. Likewise, a special use hearing would be necessary because of the relocation of the drive-thru window. Mr. Smith stated that the bank was never told that it could not move forward with Plan A, but they did learn that it would probably be a lengthy process due to community concern about the building height and loss of surface parking. The bank had concerns about the length of time that may be needed to get the plan approved in light of time constraints related to their lease. They therefore developed "Plan B", a one-story building that would meet the needs of the bank and that could be built as -of -right. Mr Norkett stated that the Neighborhood Committee had been studying Chicago Avenue for almost a year with the goal of determining how to allow development appropriate for the corridor, of maximum benefit for the property tax base and acceptable to the surrounding neighborhoods. He stated that the bank had never brought this project to the Committee. John Lyman stated that the reaction of the Neighborhood Committee had been that Plan A was more fitting for the value of the site. He added that the bank preferred Plan A, but was facing opposition to it and therefore had prepared Plan B as a back-up. He asked the Plan Commission to formally support the concept of Plan A and to encourage the bank to move forward. Marty Norkett commented that he thought the Plan Commission ought to be better informed about proposed projects as it tries to address corridor planning throughout the city, John Lyman stated that most people present at the Neighborhood Committee meeting felt that Plan A was worth supporting. Ron Kobold, chair of the committee, had suggested that the Plan Commission vote on a resolution of support for the project that would encourage the bank to move forward with Plan A. That resolution would help the bank to encourage support from investors. Mr. Hart asked If Plan A was consistent EVANSTON PLAN COMMISSION 1 February 11, 1998 PAGE 4 of 8 DRAFT, AtorAPPROVED with the Neighborhood Committee's emerging vision for Chicago Avenue. Mr. Lyman stated that it was; that at certain areas along Chicago Avenue (the intersection of Main Street being one of them) higher density development with ground floor retail was feasible and desirable. Doralne Anderson stated that, as no Issues related to the project required map or text amendments to the zoning ordinance, the Plan Commission had no roll in the matter. The Plan Commission, she continued, should not make general recommendations to the Zoning Board of Appeals with regards to variances and special use matters. David Hart, disagreed, stating that the Plan Commission can offer its support for a project if it agrees with a vision for development. Valerie Kretchmer stated that the Commission could support the project but agreed with Ms. Anderson that the Commission should not make recommendations to the Zoning Board on matters outside of its responsibility. Ms. Kretchmer stated that Plan A is consistent with the thinking going into current planning projects, including the Comprehensive General Plan revision and the Neighborhood Plan for Chicago Avenue. Arthur Alterson clarified that a general statement of support would not preempt the ZBA or the City Council from conducting whatever deliberations would be necessary for this project to be completed. He added that Mr. Smith is seeking some indication that Plan A is worthy of support. Sydney Grevas stated that blueprints for Plan A should be changed so as to be in compliance with the Zoning Ordinance and therefore avoid the need for a public hearing. David Hart stated that the bank would still have to undergo a special use hearing. John Lyman suggested that a separate issue be raised for the Zoning Committee, that being the examination of the build -to -lot line requirement in B districts. Mr. Knutson stated if the request for a variance from the lot line requirement were denied, the project could still proceed by simply redesigning the structure. On the other hand, he continued, if the special use for the drive- thru was denied, the project would more than likely be dead. He added that he very much wanted to see a large, mixed use project at that site. John Lyman handed out a written statement that he proposed the Commission adopt. He read the following statement, moving its adoption: `Resolution: although the Plan Commission is still in the process of developing a plan for the development of Chicago Avenue, it is clear that Evanston's tax base and the long term development of Chicago Avenue as a thriving commercial/residential corridor would be best served by the approval of Great Bank Evanston's proposal A, which would entail an eight story condo/retail building on the northeast corner of Chicago and Main. This proposal meets current height and parking requirements under existing zoning. The Zoning Board is encouraged to provide a zoning variation to allow for a structure that would allow for several feet of setback from the lot line so as to provide a more attractive visual structure, in addition, the City Council is encouraged to provide a special use permit for the relocation of the drive through facilities from the east to the west side of the lot." Richard Cook seconded the motion. Steve Knutson suggested that the sentence regarding setbacks be struck from the resolution. He stated that the current philosophy in urban design is to build to the lot line, but, moreover, that design issues are not relevant to the Plan Commission at this point. David Hart said that the statement should read that the concept of Plan A is consistent with the existing planning vision of the area and the last two sentences of the proposed resolution should be left out. Members agreed to drop the last two sentences and to add a final sentence recommending City Council's approval. John Lyman reread the statement as amended. "Resolution: although the Plan Commission Is still In the process of developing a plan for the development of Chicago Avenue, It Is clear that Evanston's tax base and the long term development of Chicago Avenue as a thriving commerclal/residentlal corridor would be best served by the approval of Great Bank Evanston's proposal A, which would entail an elght story condo/retall building on the northeast comer of Chicago and Main. This proposal meets current height and parking requirements under existing zoning and Is consistent with the Plan Commission's vision of Chicago and Main. We encourage the City Council to approve this project." Members voted six to one in favor of the motion. (Voting for: Kretchmer, Cook, Hart, Lyman, Norkett, Grevas. Voting against: Anderson). Following the vote, John Lyman referred from the Neighborhood Committee to the Zoning Committee an assessment of the lot -line restrictions in 3 zoning districts. Mr. Norkett then asked Judith Aiello (Assistant W DR4FT, NOTAPPROVED EVANSTON PLAN COMMISSION 1 February 11. 1998 PAGE 5 of 6 City Manager) regarding how information regarding large redevelopment projects relevant to long-term planning can be better communicated to the Plan Commission. Ms. Aiello stated that this occurs when development proposals or concerns are brought to the attention of staff, something that does not always happen. She stated that it would be appropriate for the Commission to promote and encourage specific projects that are consistent with the Comprehensive General Plan. She stated that confusion sometimes emerges, however, when rumors about projects get ahead of the technical review performed by zoning and planning. Dennis Marino stated that the Site Plan and Appearance Review Committee reviews projects In their conceptual stage. Ms. Aiello stated the Plan Commission receives the list of current proposed projects -- large and small --on the weekly zoning reports which can be highlighted to draw attention to the more significant development proposals. V. OTHER NEW BUSINESS Valerie Kretchmer stated that the Committee had finished drafting chapters on public facilities which Included parks and recreation areas, public buildings and public utilities. Chris Wonders reviewed the process to date. He stated that the Committee will be concluding its review of transportation issues at its February meeting with a draft of the Parking Chapter. That chapter would also be forwarded to the City Council Parking Committee for a joint discussion. Valerie Kretchmer asked members if they had any comments on the Public Facilities chapters. John Lyman asked for clarification on the policy of actively seeking new land for park space and the policy of trying to expand the amount of space for play -fields. Valerie Kretchmer responded that Increasing play -fields could be done through improvements to existing park land. Finding land for additional park space would more than likely come down to small parcels that would not be adequate spaces for large playing fields anyway. Mr. Lyman stated that the Neighborhood Planning Committee earlier that day had discussed the Impact of encouraging Increased density in some areas. The net increase In the property tax base from such development might allow for flexibility to allow designating land for tax exempt uses like recreation areas, open space, or even off-street parking. Sydney Grevas stated that Doug Gaynor (Director of Parks, Recreation, and Forestry) had stated that there were so many facilities needing attention, that rather than adding more to the inventory, it would be wise to spend the critical amount of money needed to improve current quality. Valerie Kretchmer stated that she agreed with this point with the exception of southeast Evanston where there was need of a new recreation facility. Ann Dienner encouraged the use of school facilities as alternative recreation resources. John Lyman stated that it was important to promote tree planting and to encourage the planting of new trees beyond the simple replacement of existing trees that might be lost. VI. COMMITTEE REPORTS Doraine Anderson reported that the City Council Planning and Development Committee had passed on to Council several issues, although the proposed amendments to the fence ordinance still had not been considered. She stated that there would be zoning hearings for the March Plan Commission meeting. Members discussed the need to be notified of aldermanic references for zoning amendments as soon as they are made. Ms. Anderson stated that Alderman Engelman had been invited to discuss the reference he had made several months earlier. She stated that there have been ongoing complications about references, stating that it was desirable to speak with alderman to understand the true nature of their requests. Minutes of Council proceedings alone, she stated, are not always an adequate means of teaming about these matters. Marty Norkett requested that staff notify the Commission in a more timely manner regarding aldermanic references. Steve Knutson contended that zoning amendments should be considered within an adequate period of time. He said that although aldermanic references do need to be resolved in a timely manner that does not require their resolution immediately upon their issuance. Mr. Norkett summarized the recent activities of the Economic Development Committee. Ms. Aiello presented a brief summary of the negotiations underway for the Research Park development. She stated that the ninety day deadline for a final redevelopment agreement had proven ambitious and anticipated that it will more than likely take a longer period of time. At the end of the ninety days, however, a finalized site plan is EVANSTON PLAN COMMISSION / February 11.1M PAGE 6ofe DRAFT. NOT APPROVED anticipated as Is the resolution of many of the Issues related to land acquisition. She summarized other activities related to the Research Park project and stated that a design charrette would be conducted for the community in March. She also commented that the CTA board was due to approve a contract of purchase for the Main Street Newsstand property In March. Once approved, the Evanston City Council would then be In a position to make a decision about leasing out the space. The CTA has stated that the proceeds from the sale of the property would be Invested into Improvements of el stations in Evanston. VII. ADJOURNMENT The Commission adjourned at 9:45 p.m. The next regular meeting of the Evanston Plan Commission Is scheduled for March 11, 1998, at 7:00 p.m., In Room 2403 of the Evanston Civic Center. Respectfully Submitted, er ers February 20. 1998 Christ General Planner, Planning Division Community Development Department N O p 6 FT, M@T caPPG3: VED MINUTES EVANSTON PLAN COMMISSION Meeting of Wednesday, March 11, 1998 / 7:00 p.m. Evanston Civic Center, Room 2403 MEMBERS PRESENT .... Alvin Keith, Doraine Anderson, Ron Kobold, Marty Norkett, David Hart, Sydney Grevas, Richard Cook, John Lyman, MEMBERS ABSENT ..................................... Valerie Kretchmer ASSOCIATE MEMBERS PRESENT ................. Ann Dienner, Steve Knutson ASSOCIATE MEMBERS ABSENT .............. Philinda Coleman, Nettie Johnson STAFF PRESENT ........... Arthur Alterson, Dennis Marino, Christopher Wonders OTHERS PRESENT .............................. Chuck Remen, Jim Repsold PRESIDING .......................................... Marty Norkett, Chair I. CALL TO ORDER / DECLARATION OF QUORUM The meeting was called to order at 7:00 p.m., a quorum being present. II. CONSIDERATION OF MINUTES, FEBRUARY 11, 1998 The minutes were approved with minor editorial corrections. III. COMMUNICATIONS Chris Wonders highlighted the communications sent to the Commission. Included were the weekly zoning analysis reports for the month of February, an announcement about the ongoing Northeast Evanston Historic District Association project, and a brochure from the Metropolitan Pianning Council (MPC) regarding its campaign for sensible growth in the Chicago region. Ron Koboid asked for an explanation of property tax relief available to residents of an historic district. Chris Wonders stated that, as an incentive for rehabilitatingtrenovating an historic property, homeowners can qualify to have the property's assessed valuation frozen for a period of time at the existing rate prior to improvements being made. John Lyman stated that the freeze fasts for seven years and that the program is administered by the State of Illinois. Chuck Remen added that the cost of the improvements must equal a certain percentage of the value of the property. Members discussed any potential loss to the City's property tax revenues. Mr. Lyman stated that, (1) any losses would be minimal, and (2), in the long run, the City's tax revenues are increased because the P EVANSTON PLAN COMMISSION / MARCH 11, 1998 PAGE 2 of 5 DRAFT; NOT APPROVED property would be reassessed at a higher rate at the end of the freeze -period. Chris Wonders stated that he would provide the Commission with further details on the matter for the next monthly meeting. Before commencing the public hearing, Chairman Norkett introduced the Commission's newest member, Dr. Alvin Keith. IV. NEW BUSINESS -ZONING HEARING The Commission convened the hearing of Case ZPC-98-1-T, which proposed amendments to sections 6-3-5, "special uses," and 6-4-1, "general regulations," and any related sections of the Zoning Ordinance to establish regulations and procedures concerning the establishment and the control of special uses including, without limitation, authorized applicants for special use permits; disuse, discontinuation, and abandonment of special uses; extension of the validity period for special use permits; imposition of conditions and restrictions upon special use permits; and additions, expansions and changes to special uses. Arthur Alterson presented the findings of the Zoning Committee which were added to the official record of the case. Following deliberation, Doraine Anderson moved to recommend City Council's approval of the amendments as prepared by the Zoning Committee. David Halt seconded the motion. The Commission voted unanimously in support of the motion. A copy of the verbatim transcript for Case ZPC-98-T-1 is on file in the Zoning Division, Room 3700 of the Evanston Civic Center. V. OTHER NEW BUSINESS -COMPREHENSIVE GENERAL PLAN DISCUSSION The Commission reviewed drafts of Comprehensive General Plan chapters relating to streets and traffic management, parking, transit systems, bicycling, and pedestrian policies. Chris Wonders stated that these draft chapters would be amended to reflect the Commission's concerns and then sent to the City Council Parking Committee for review. Richard Cook asked, in regard to the Parking Chapter, about the recommendation for further study of parking needs. Mr. Wonders stated that the Committee had included this because the complex nature of specific parking problems in some neighborhoods would require more detailed analysis than what is given in the general plan. Members discussed the remainder of the work to be undertaken with the project. Marty Norkett asked when the document would be complete and available for public review, urging that a date be set. Doraine Anderson responded that there are important steps that must happen first, including the Committee's review of the full document to assure its consistency and coherence as a general statement of goals and objectives. Sydney Grevas said that time must be allowed for review by the aldermen before the document is sent to the public for comment. John Lyman stated that he agreed with the need for the Commission to look careful at the whole document and to consider it in its entirety. He then made some specific comments on the chapters presented for discussion that evening. He stated that the D91177; SC -APPROVED EVANSTON PLAN COMMISSION/ MARCH 11, 1998 PAGE 3 of 5 streets chapter should be clarified so that the traffic management issues specified on the page of goals and objectives also be spelled out in the text of the chapter. In particular, the policy of monitoring traffic patterns and implementing signal -phasing remedies should be reflected in the text. Mr. Lyman observed that sometimes it seems as though such remedies are put in place for a given intersection without thinking about how they will affect other streets in the area. He stated that the Comprehensive General Plan is a document that should underscore the overall importance of approaching traffic studies from the viewpoint of the entire city as well as the immediate vicinity. Chris Wonders commented on the addition of text to the chapter since the Committee's prior review relating to the reopening of streets which dead-end at the railroad embankments of the former Mayfair railroad right-of-way. He explained that the policy as worded underscores neighborhood input for such a future endeavor, adding that, as was his understanding, the communities involved did not favor re -opening streets when the railroad property first became available many years ago. Doraine Anderson commented that this issue could be more important with particular regard to emergency vehicle access heading north from the new Fire Station #1. She stated that this is just one example of why the issue should be included in the document. Chuck Remen stated that the Commission should be aware that the Chamber of Commerce was working with the City and a consultant to design a signage system to help guide drivers to important destinations, including parking facilities. Chris Wonders stated that he would provide the Commission with further details on the matter for the next monthly meeting. Ann Dienner stated that the wayfinding signage was an important issue and should be placed higher in the list of priority. Arthur Alterson commented that the text of the draft document should be corrected with regards to the University's parking requirements. He stated that, while the discussion of the aggregate parking issue was correct, the University's use of spaces at Ryan Field does not count towards the University's zoning requirement. He also suggested that the parking chapter encourage employers to provide employee incentives to minimize the rate of single -occupancy -vehicle (SOV) commuting, a factor that greatly increases the demand for parking. He stated that the zoning ordinance currently offers no mechanism for trading - off the number of required spaces by providing commuters alternatives other than driving. He commented on this in relation to the ongoing issue of Evanston Hospital and its plans for a new parking facility. John Lyman stated that the graph indicating the increased rate of household vehicle ownership between 1970 and 1990 was interesting and gives some support to encouraging increased parking requirements for residential developments in commercial areas. Chris Wonders responded that the census statistics represented a citywide average. Further investigation of the parking requirement issue would involve looking at those same statistics for areas where multifamily housing predominates. EVANSTON PLAN COMMISSION I MARCH 11. 1998 PAGE 4 of 5 VI. COMMITTEE REPORTS DRAM: NOTAPPROVED Members discussed the recent activities of various standing committees. Mr. Norkett reviewed the Neighborhood Committee meeting of the previous night, which he felt was very successful. The meeting was a neighborhood visioning process where representatives of the Commission and multiple neighborhood groups from around the Chicago Avenue corridor joined together to identify strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats associated with Chicago Avenue corridor. Along with several Plan Commissioners and members of City staff, those present included Aldermen Wynne and Bernstein, and representatives of Dempster Area Neighbors East (DANE), the Main Street Merchants Association, Nichols Neighbors, the Preservation League, the Southeast Evanston Association (SEA), and . Members discussed the need for greater publicity and effective means for communicating with the public about planning activities. Members agreed that the meeting worked well, especially because those in attendance were prepared for a substantive discussion. Ron Kobold stated that it was helpful having staff and many members of the Plan Commission in attendance. Doraine Anderson stated that one of the ideas she had mentioned at the meeting was creating new zoning districts or zoning overlay districts that could help to reconcile the redevelopment concerns of Chicago Avenue. To avoid concerns about spot zoning, she commented that, if deemed appropriate, such zones could be replicated along parts of Howard Street, Green Bay Road, or at the west end of Central Street. She stated that the Zoning Committee would look into such an idea after it finishes other tasks. Ron Kobold asked about the status of Greatbank Evanston's proposal for Chicago Avenue and Main Street. Dennis Marino stated that it was his understanding that both of the bank's proposals were still on the table. Arthur Alterson stated that he had recently spoken with representatives from the bank and had learned that they were still interested in pursuing the multistory, multi -use proposal known as "Plan A." Ms. Anderson asked what the owner of the current bank building intended to do with the property when the bank moves to a new facility across the street. Mr. Norkett responded that that was unknown at this time. Steve Knutson asked if the Plan Commission could do any more to encourage the bank's project to move forward. Mr. Norkett responded that the letter sent from the Commission to the City Council supporting the project was sufficient at this time. David Hart asked what the community's sentiments toward "Plan A" were. Jim Repsold commented that many would rather see the multistory building than the one-story structure proposed in "Plan B." He added that the location was appropriate because of other tall buildings in the immediate vicinity. Doraine Anderson reported on the work of the Zoning Committee. She stated that they would be meeting to discuss the rounding rule established by the zoning ordinance. She reiterated her earlier comments about development zones vis-a-vis Chicago Avenue and other corridors. EL DRAFT, NOT APPROVED EVANSTON FLAN COMMISSION / MARCH 11,1998 PAGE 5 of 5 Marty Norkett stated that the Economic Development Committee had canceled its February meeting. He stated that Judy Aiello would be updating the Commission in April on the Research Park project. Dennis Marino commented on the Joseph Freed Company's proposed redevelopment of the Evanston Plaza at Dodge Avenue and Dempster Street, stating that investigation into environmental issues was underway. Ann Dienner stated that she thought much of the environmental problem was dealt with when the existing shopping center was constructed. Dennis Marino stated that the center was built prior to many of the current EPA regulations. Stricter standards today necessitate a more thorough soil testing and remediation process. John Lyman asked for an update on the Gateway Project at Howard and Clark Streets in Chicago. Mr. Norkett stated he was anticipating a packet of information on the project that will be sent to the full Commission when it becomes available. Dennis Marino stated that as soon as documentation becomes available it would be transmitted, but that, at this time, the site plan for the proposed development was not finalized. He commented on the demolitions underway in the area to clear land for the redevelopment and on a number of unrelated development projects going on in that vicinity of Rogers Park. Mr. Marino also commented that the Commission would receive a copy of the Howard Street Vision Statement, recently finalized by the Howard Street Redevelopment Committee. Vll. ADJOURNMENT The Commission adjoumed at approximately 9:00 p.m. The next regular meeting of the Evanston Plan Commission is scheduled for April 8, 1998, at 7:00 p.m., in Room 2403 of the Evanston Civic Center. Respectfully Submitted, �� March 27, 1998 Christopher wodders General Planner, Planning Division Community Development Department 40 D R a Irk, HOT APPROVED MINUTES IEV)UsTSTON PLAT COMMISSION Meeting of Wednesday, April 8, 1998 17:00 p.m. Evanston Civic Center, Room 2403 MEMBERS PRESENT ............ Doraine Anderson, Sydney Grevas, David Hart, Ron Kabold, Marty Norkett, Valerie Kretchmer John Lyman, MEMBERS ABSENT .............................. Richard Cook, Alvin Keith ASSOCIATE MEMBERS PRESENT ................. Ann Dienner, Steve Knutson ASSOCIATE MEMBERS ABSENT .............. Philinda Coleman, Nettie Johnson STAFF PRESENT ............. Dennis Marino, Marc Mylott, Christopher Wonders OTHERS PRESENT ................ Chuck Remen, Jim Repsold, Larry Widmeyer PRESIDING .......................................... Marty Norkett, Chair I. CALL TO ORDER 1 DECLARATION OF QUORUM The meeting was called to order at 7:00 p.m., a quorum being present. II. CONSIDERATION OF MINUTES, MARCH 11, 1998 The minutes were approved with a minor clarification. John Lyman stated that he had misspoken during the meeting as regards the duration of a property assessment freeze for historic residential properties undergoing restoration. He explained that the assessed valuation of the property is frozen for eight years at its amount the year rehabilitation begins. Ill. OLD BUSINESS: UPDATE ON ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE AND RESEARCH PARK DEVELOPMENT Judy Aiello was present to brief the Commission on the status of the Research Park development project. She stated that a design charrette had been held on March 14 at which roughly twenty design professionals and thirty citizens in the audience discussed the architectural and site planning aspects of the proposed development. She stated that staff and the Hill development team came away with many good ideas, including the benefits associated with different uses (such as residential lofts) and varied building materials. On April 2, the Arthur Hill team had presented a revised site plan to the City Council and the Economic Development Committee. EVANSTON PLAN COMMISSION IAPRIL 8, 1998 PAGE 2 of 5 DRAFT, NOT APPROYLD Ms. Aiello then gave an overview of the latest site plan configuration, including the addition of 200 more parking spaces to the parking garage design, bringing the total number of spaces to twelve hundred. She explained that it was very important that the garage be big enough to meet future increases in demand. She explained that the senior center and performing arts center were now to be located south of Church Street as a way of anchoring the development to Davis Street as well as Church. She stated that both facilities were being planned to maximize flexibility so that future changes in the types of activities could be accommodated. She stated that a small number of surface parking spaces would be included in this portion of the development in order to accommodate senior citizens and short term parking for the arts center. North of the senior center but still south of Church Street, she continued, would be retail at grade level and the Sundance cinemas above. Ms. Aiello stated that Sundance and General Cinemas are still the leading candidates for the cinemas, but other operators are being talked to in order to get the best deal for the city. North of Church Street, the brick circle design of the research park would be incorporated into the open spaces of the development. On the east side of Maple Avenue, thirty-four hundred seats were still proposed for the cinemas, all above retail uses found at grade along Maple Avenue. Diagonal parking was added on Maple to help the retail and to enhance the urban context of the area. On the west side, also above retail, thirty to forty units of loft residential development had been added to the proposal. Ms. Aiello explained that the hotel was now to be located north of the garage. She stated that four thousand square feet of conference space is possible at this location which would not have been possible if the hotel were placed elsewhere on the site. She concluded the summary by stating that office space had been included in the site plan not as a proposed component of the development but in order to reflect future build -out areas. She stated that the City Council had granted a ninety -day extension to finalize the negotiations on a redevelopment agreement. Concurrent with that, she added, environmental testing at the site was underway. Doraine Anderson asked about the status of land swap between the City and the University. Ms. Aiello stated that the negotiations were still underway, Steve Knutson stated that he is very impressed with the architect for the project, Barry Elbasani. He stated that Elbasani is very sensitive to design issues in Evanston. Following Judy Aiello's presentation, the Commission thanked her for her time and explanation. Dennis Marino spoke about other Economic Development Committee projects, including the Neighborhood Business District Improvement Program. He stated that, the Committee had received nine applications for business district improvements with $75,000 available for funding this fiscal year and $100,000 in future fiscal years. He added that the Committee intended to make final funding recommendations to Council on May 11. IV. OTHER NEW BUSINESS -COMPREHENSIVE GENERAL PLAN DISCUSSION Members reviewed the draft environment chapter presented by the Comprehensive General Plan Committee. Valerie Kretchmer stated that the Committee had met with r DRAFT, NOrAPPROV D EVANSTON PLAN COMMISSION / APRIL 8, 1998 PAGE 3 of S representatives from the Environment Board, Keep Evanston Beautiful and the City Recycling Center in preparing the draft. She also stated that this draft would be the last substantive chapter that the Committee would prepare. The Committee's next task would involve drafting a vision statement and implementation plan for the document. She stated that the Commission would be asked to review the proposed draft vision statement at Its next meeting. At subsequent meetings, the Committee would present the complete document for the Commission's final review and approval prior to holding public hearings. Marty Norkett stated that his interest in expediting the completion of the document related to increased interest in long range planning as voiced by groups in the community such as Evanston Inventure and the Chamber of Commerce. He stated that much of that interest stems from the desire for more long-term thinking to occur in future City budget proceedings. John Lyman stated that he had a few reactions to the draft environment chapter. He discussed policies that promote employer Incentives for preventing automobile congestion. He stated that he liked employers to encourage car pooling and mass transit use but that government policies restricting commuting patterns were a bad idea. Furthermore, he commented that encouraging the City to purchase and use recycled products should be done within the context of fiscal prudence so that recycled products are not chosen without consideration of cost. Doraine Anderson responded that it is important for citizens to understand the role government plays in helping to create markets for recycled and other environmentally beneficial products. Mr. Lyman agreed but added that the City of Evanston alone cannot offset problems with recycled materials markets. While he felt it worthwhile to encourage purchasing recycled products, he felt that it should not be encouraged without regard to cost. Ann Dienner stated that some text be appropriate to encourage more effective snow removal on sidewalks, especially in the downtown area. Valerie Kretchmer stated that such language would be more effective in the chapter addressing pedestrian policies as opposed to the chapter on the environment. V. COMMITTEE REPORTS Ron Kobold briefed the Commission on the activities of the Neighborhood Committee's vis-a-vis the Chicago Avenue corridor. He stated that he felt the Committee would try to reach its conclusions over the next two months, Upon completion of its work, the Committee will make short term and long term recommendations to the community. He stated that traffic and parking were currently being studied and that both public and private strategies for addressing related concerns would probably be recommended. He stated that the Traffic Engineering Division, in conjunction with the Planning and Zoning Divisions, had undertaken a survey of households in multifamily buildings to determine the average rate of car ownership in these types of households. Mr. Kobold stated that, upon completion of the corridor study, two presentations would be given to the Plan Commission, one by the Neighborhood Committee in which EVANSTON PLAN COMMISSION 1 APRIL 8, 1993 DR4Fr, NOT APPROV D PAGE A of 5 ... formal recommendations would be made and one from the Southeast Evanston Association. Relating to other neighborhood planning issues, Dennis Marino stated that the Howard Street Redevelopment Committee had finalized a vision statement for the area between Chicago and Ridge Avenues on both the Evanston and Chicago sides of Howard Street. The vision includes streetscape improvements as well as strategies for maintaining and enhancing the businesses in the district. Ann Dienner asked about planning related to Howard Street west of Ridge Avenue. Mr. Marino commented that staff has the intention of continuing further west along the corridor in the future as time and resource capacity permits. He stated that stopping the current target area at Ridge Avenue related to that street being a ward boundary south of Howard Street and therefore a logical dividing point in terms of administering the liaison process with Chicago. Mr. Marino also commented on the successful use of local and federal funds in assisting the transfer of ownership and rehabilitation of four multifamily buildings north of Howard Street. He then updated the Commission on several important developments, including the Zoning Board of Appeals' approval of the Cyrus residential development at 2953 Central Street, the ongoing review of a townhouse development proposed for a vacant parcel on Dodge Avenue in the vicinity of Crain Street, and ongoing discussions around the redevelopment of the Evanston Plaza at Dodge and Dempster. He stated that the latter project, as presently envisioned, would include a grocery store but that no formal application had been submitted as of yet. Doraine Anderson asked if the townhouses proposed for Crain and Dodge would front on the public right-of-way as required by the Zoning Ordinance. Marc Mylott responded that the developer was seeking a variation from the requirement in order to make the development financially feasible. Ms. Anderson responded that she was concerned about this requirement being lifted for numerous proposals for townhouse developments. Ms. Anderson then reported on the activities of the Zoning Committee. She stated that at the April 30 meeting of the Committee, a preliminary discussion of Alderman Engelman's reference regarding conference facilities in the Research Park district would be discussed. She also stated that the Council Rules Committee would be taking up the issue of references and the future use of an official reference form that would allow aldermen to be specific in the references they make to the Plan Commission. VI. OTHER NEW BUSINESS -ZONING HEARING The Commission convened the hearing of Case ZPC 98-02-T, proposed amendments to Sections 6-8-5-3, 6-8-6-3, and 6-8-7-3, and creating a new section within Chapter 4 "General Provisions" of the City of Evanston Zoning Ordinance to include "office" as a listed special use in the R4, R5, and R6 General Residential districts, subject to conditions including, but not limited to, requiring that the subject property be adjacent to a non-residential zoning district. Following this hearing, the Commission convened case ZPC 98-03-T, proposed amendments to the appropriate sections of the City of Evanston DRAFT, NOrAPFROV D EVANSTON PLAN COMMISSION IAPRIL S. INa PAGE 5 of 5 Zoning Ordinance to create a rounding rule. A copy of the verbatim irlanscripts for both cases is on file in the Zoning Division, Room 3700 of the Evanston Civic Center. Vll. COMMUNICATIONS The Commission discussed the communications including materials from Eymark regarding Downtown Evanston, a brochure from the Chamber of Commerce regarding education in Evanston, information summarizing the new directional signage program, a memo regarding televising Plan Commission meetings, and the monthly zoning reports. Vlll. ADJOURNMENT The Commission adjourned at approximately 8:45 p.m. The next regular meeting of the Evanston Plan Commission Is scheduled for May 13, 1998, at 7:00 p.m., in Room 2403 of the Evanston Civic Center. Respectfully Submitted, MAY 11, 1998 Chris p- h er&&d ers General Planner, Planning Division Community Development Department r L7f�AFT NO f Af'f'f�C�)VEC� MINUTES ]EV)UNSTON PLAN COMMISSION Meeting of Wednesday, May 13, 1998 / 7:00 p.m. Evanston Civic Center, Room 2403 MEMBERS PRESENT ... Doraine Anderson, Sydney Grevas, David Hart, Alvin Keith, Ron Kobold, Marty Norkett, Valerie Kretchmer, John Lyman MEMBERS ABSENT ........................................ Richard Cook ASSOCIATE MEMBERS PRESENT ............... Nettie Johnson, Steve Knutson ASSOCIATE MEMBERS ABSENT ................ Philinda Coleman, Ann Dienner STAFF PRESENT .............................. Judith Aiello, Arthur Alterson, Dennis Marino, Christopher Wonders OTHERS PRESENT .......................................... Jim Repsold PRESIDING .......................................... Marty Norkett, Chair I. CALL TO ORDER 1 DECLARATION OF QUORUM The meeting was called to order at 7:00 p.m., a quorum being present. II. CONSIDERATION OF MINUTES, MEETING OF APRIL 8, 1998 The minutes were approved without correction. In relation to the April neighborhood planning report, Ron Kobold clarified that the Neighborhood Planning Committee will be synthesizing information presented by multiple community -based organizations, not just the Southeast Evanston Association. Other organizations included in the process are Dempster Area Neighbors East (DANE), the Main Street Merchants Association, Nichols Neighbors, and the Southeast Evanston Association (SEA). III. COMMUNICATIONS The Commission received several communications which included information on Downtown Evanston from Evmark, the April zoning analysis reports, the Howard Street Redevelopment Committee Newsletter, and meeting notes from the Neighborhood Planning Committee. EVANSTON PLAN COMMISSION r MAY 13. 1998 PAGE 2 of 7 DRAFT, NOTAPPROVED Doraine Anderson made several comments relating to the zoning analysis reports. She noted the numerous sidewalk cafe permit applications that had been received. She also commented on the proposal for seven townhouses at 1825 Central Street, underscoring the zoning requirement that single-family attached dwelling units face a designated public right-of-way. As variations from this requirement have been granted in the past, Ms. Anderson suggested that perhaps City Council reconsider this portion of the zoning ordinance. For the record, she stated that the community is best served by removing those requirements that the City does not enforce. Arthur Alterson reported that, as proposed, the plan for 1825 Central Street would need zoning relief. IV. COMMITTEE REPORTS Neighborhood Committee: Ron Kobold stated that the Neighborhood Committee was in the process of creating a summary document for presentation to the Commission. He stated that the Committee had finished collecting data, including significant amounts of input from community groups located in the vicinity of the Chicago Avenue Corridor. He stated that the Committee's intention was to complete its summary in the next four to six weeks and, as stated earlier, to present a report that synthesized the viewpoints of the community groups. Mr. Kobold stated that Great Bank Evanston would be moving forward with its plans for an eight -story mixed -use development at the northeast corner of Chicago Avenue and Main Street. He added that the bank had also purchased the building in which it is currently located. Mr. Kobold stated that the Wild Oats grocery store is still proceeding with its plans to locate at the former Point One Motors site on Chicago Avenue. Zonino CommittM Doraine Anderson stated that the Zoning Committee would be interested in hearing further information regarding the Research Park so that matters related to long term land use decisions (such as the proposed zoning amendment scheduled for that evening) could be made more clearly. Chairman Norkett suggested conducting the remaining committee reports after the public hearing. Members agreed. V. NEW BUSINESS: ZONING AMENDMENT PUBLIC HEARING The Commission convened the hearing of Case ZPC 98-04-T: proposed amendments to the following sections of the City of Evanston Zoning Ordinance to define "conference facility" (Section 6-18-3), create an off-street parking requirement for "conference facility" (Section 6-16-3-1, Table 16-B), and add "conference facility" to the list of permitted uses (Section 6-12-2-2) or special uses (Section 6-12-2-3) within the RP Research Park District. The Commission continued deliberation on this matter until June 10, 1998. After the hearing is closed, a copy of the verbatim transcript will be placed on file in the Zoning Division, Room 3700 of the Evanston Civic Center. DRAFT, NOT APPROVED EVANSTON PLAN COMMISSION ! MAY 13,1998 PAGE 3 of 7 VI. OTHER NEW BUSINESS: COMMITTEE REPORTS CONTINUED aonomic Development Commits Judy Aiello briefed the Commission on issues related to the Research Park. She stated that two developers, Scribcor and Meisrow/Stein have announced plans to construct office buildings at the north end of the Research Park. The Scribcor plans call for potentially two buildings, the first being a fifty thousand square - foot building to be located at the southeast comer of Oak Avenue and Emerson Street and the second building that would be from fifty to sixty thousand square -feet in size. The second building is considered speculative, she said, and, if built, would be located at the site of the former Ward Manufacturing facility on the southwest corner of Oak Avenue and Emerson Street. Meanwhile, she continued, the Meisrow/Stein proposal calls for a ninety thousand square -foot office facility to be constructed on the site currently used for parking at the northwest corner of Maple Avenue and University Place. Ms. Aiello stated that these proposals have been looked upon as good news, even though they would create some parking complications for the Arthur Hill development. She pointed out that these complications would be carefully considered, adding that, with proposed full development of the Research Park now more of a reality, the City can calculate the real estate tax increment that will be available to finance construction of additional parking infrastructure. Doraine Anderson asked if the proposed amendment to the zoning ordinance that would list "conference facility" as a use in the Research Park was needed in order for the Hill development to use cinema spaces as conference facilities. Arthur Alterson responded that this was not the case because, from a zoning standpoint, the cinema would still be considered the primary use of the structure. Judy Aiello stated that Alderman Engelman made the reference for the zoning amendment so that future proposals for a separate conference facility --wherein conferences would be the exclusive use of the building —would be encouraged. She said that many felt Evanston would benefit from additional conference spaces, even with the meeting spaces currently to be included in the Hill development. Doraine Anderson asked if such a conference facility would be located in the Research Park north of University Place. Ms. Aiello stated that, as the boundaries of the Research Park zoning district would not be changed even after construction of the Hill development, future proposals for a conference facility could occur anywhere within the district. John Lyman asked if there would be any open parcels for constructing a conference facility if all of the currently proposed developments were completed. Ms. Aiello stated that the site immediately south of University Place east of Maple Avenue would be one such location. The site is currently occupied by a University building in which research activities take place. Ron Kobold reminded the Commission that their duty in considering the zoning text amendment was not to consider where a conference facility would be located. Rather, the issue they have been asked to consider is whether a conference facility is an appropriate use if it were to locate anywhere in the RP district. EVANSTON PLAN COMMISSION ! MAY 13,1998 PAGE 4of7 DRAFT, NorAPPROVED The Commission thanked Ms. Aiello for updating them on development matters. Dennis Marino stated that, in other economic development news, the City Council had approved seven business district improvement proposals that ranged in nature from new street banners, sidewalk improvements, and even the creation of an internet marketing site for the Dempster Street business district. Valerie Kretchmer stated that the City should try to minimize the amount of text and graphics that appear on street banners, commenting that banners that are too "busy" are actually counter productive. Comprehensive GeneraLPlan Committee: Valerie Kretchmer introduced the draft vision statement of the Comprehensive General Plan for discussion among the Commission members. She stated that the draft was still a work in progress and that, in order to be an effective introduction to the full plan, it would be reviewed and edited based on the Commission's suggestions. Members discussed the preliminary lists of Evanston's relative community strengths and challenges as presented in the introduction. The preliminary lists read as follows: Strengths: the presence of multiple outstanding institutions of higher learning, including but not limited to Northwestern University; proximity to Chicago with excellent public transportation linking the two cities; cultural amenities and the unique identity of an "Independent city," not an ordinary bedroom community; a diverse economy where 43% of Evanston residents who work do so within the community; relative competitive advantage as a location for high technology -based enterprise; a diversity of housing styles, types, and prices that accommodates buyers and renters; a "traditional" pedestrian and transit -oriented pattern of neighborhoods with tree -lined streets and convenient business districts including a diverse downtown area; location adjacent to Lake Michigan and a strong commitment to public lakefront parks; parks and recreation programs offering residents a wide selection of leisure activities and amenities; an appealing community aesthetic that includes distinctive architecture and landscaping and noteworthy historic preservation efforts; high -quality public services, facilities (including the new state-of-the-art main library) and safety protection; a system of quality public education that invests significant resources into students. Challenges: fully built land area limits opportunities for new development and more public facilities, such as recreation areas, open space and off-street parking; per capita equalized assessed valuation (EAV) of real property lies below that of neighboring communities; Evanston's housing market is perceived as comparatively expensive; regional competitive advantage as a manufacturing and corporate office location has been lost as the region's commercial growth center has shifted to highway corridors; proximity to Lake Michigan limits the eastern extent of the market area for the central business district (compensated by a higher population density than other suburbs); aging infrastructure requires both structural and cosmetic attention; media coverage under reports academic excellence at Evanston's public schools. DRAFT, NOTAPPROVED EVANSTON PLAN COMMISSION / MAY 13,1998 PAGE 5of7 Members considered whether or not crime should be included as a challenge and if its absence would be a glaring omission. Valerie Kretchmer stated that the Committee had discussed crime and property taxes, both of which are important issues for Evanston. Chris Wonders stated that the Committee's discussion of the matter related not only to the topics of crime and property taxes but also to what role the Comprehensive General Plan actually plays in addressing them. David Hart stated that he felt the function of the document in relation to these issues is limited, but he left the question open as to whether a list of general strengths and weaknesses should omit two topics very important to the community. He said if crime and high property taxes are not included, people will ask why not, adding that, on the other hand, if these issues are included, people might question how a document dedicated to land use and capital improvement priorities will address complex social issues. Ron Kobold stated that the Comprehensive General Plan functions in part as a marketing document and should portray an insightful but also positive image of the community. Furthermore, he stated, it is primarily a land use and development document. Therefore, it should limit how it addresses the issue of crime to the physical aspects of a community that can help prevent criminal behavior. Nettie Johnson stated that crime and social issues affect property values and ultimately how land is developed. The issue should be included in the fist but generally referenced as a policy matter for the police department. Valerie Kretchmer asked if any of the Commissioners could suggest language for addressing crime and property taxes in the text. Dennis Marino stated that the crime rate in Evanston has dropped in recent years even though the perception of crime is still high. He stated that public safety is an important issue, but expressed his feeling that Evanston's experience with crime was neither greater than nor less than that of many other communities. For this reason crime probably did not need to be listed as a challenge relative to other communities. David Hart agreed but stated that, following the same rationale, the issue of relatively high property taxes should be included as a challenge. Steve Knutson stated that the list should reflect that Evanston's property taxes are high relative to other mature communities. Valerie Kretchmer stated that the nature of the challenge relates to attracting new development to offset the high property tax burden. ,John Lyman asked if listing the media's under reporting of the academic excellence in Evanston's public school system as a challenge was appropriate. Steve Knutson stated that the quality of the schools is critical for the future of the community. He added that the media unfortunately sensationalize bad news about Evanston schools through front page articles while the good news gets buried in the back of the paper. Steve Knutson commented that, in the draft list of challenges, expensive property should not be listed as a challenge. He said that it is a sign that the housing market is healthy. David Hart said that the challenge is for low and moderate income residents. Sydney Grevas stated that the relatively high cost of housing is also a challenge to EVANSTON PLAN COMMISSION 1 MAY 13. 1998 PAGE $ of T DRAFT, NOTAPPROVED Evanston in terms of new companies considering locating here and not finding a housing market affordable for their employees. Valerie Kretchmer stated that it is difficult to get the same amount of property for the money that one might get in other suburbs. Dennis Marino underscored the use of the phrase "perception of expensive housing" as part of the challenge. Mr. Marino stated that, at the same time, the strong appreciation of property value in Evanston should be included in the list of the community's strengths. Doraine Anderson responded that, while this fact was true, it was her hope that such a statement would not become dated over the life of the document once it is adopted. In relation to Mr. Knutson's initial comment about the high cost of housing being a sign of a healthy housing market, Arthur Alterson stated that a comparatively expensive housing market was not synonymous with the actual value of homes. He asserted that perhaps actual costs were inflated beyond the relative value of the property when compared to similar properties in other communities. Steve Knutson and Valerie Kretchmer agreed that such an inflated market is not the case in Evanston. Valerie Kretchmer stated that buyers are able to get back the value of their property when they sell but added that they could get more property for the same amount of money in another community. She explained that, from the middle -income household perspective, Evanston housing within an affordable price range might include a two or three bedroom condominium or townhouse, as opposed to a four -bedroom house with a yard that could be found in some other fast-growing communities in the region. She contended, however, that Evanston cannot be all things to all people and that, in fact, the community is probably already more things to more people than many other suburbs. The cost of housing, she concluded, should be examined in comparison to the quality of place and service Evanston provides. Doraine Anderson added that Evanston's location next to Lake Michigan automatically increases the value of land and property. Members discussed housing affordability in terms of housing for both middle income households and low and moderate income households. Members agreed that Evanston faces challenges in determining what actual income categories are, what such income brackets can afford, and how well the housing market meets the demand. Dennis Marino stated that, regarding low and moderate income households, the community should continue to support efforts to assist its low and moderate income residents. Members agreed that, at the same time, the community should not be obligated to absorb more than its share of the region's low and moderate income households. Dennis Marino stated that there are two points that should be addressed separately, the first being the cost of housing relative to middle -income professional households and the second being the cost burden for low and moderate income households. Valerie Kretchmer stated that another factor affecting the cost of land and building in Evanston relates to the fact that there is no more vacant land left to develop. She stated that this point is included in the list of relative challenges because there are many other DR4Fr, NOTAAPROVED EVANSTON PLAN COMMISSION 1 MAY 13, 1998 PAGE 7 of 7 communities that still have vacant land to develop as large, single-family homes. Members discussed the remainder of the draft introduction. Steve Knutson stated that he felt Evanston, for the most part, should be preserved as it is. He recognized that development is important to improve the property tax base, but that the character of the community should be maintained. Valerie Kretchmer stated that overall the spirit of the document emphasizes encouraging development to occur in a manner that will integrate with existing neighborhoods. David Hart stated that he felt the drafts of the document set that tone for the future. Members discussed the need to begin considering scheduling activities for the remainder of the year so that the different tasks before the Commission (including zoning cases, the Chicago Avenue corridor plan, and the Comprehensive General Plan) could be synchronized as much as possible. VII. ADJOURNMENT The Commission adjourned at approximately 9:05. The next regular meeting of the Evanston Plan Commission is scheduled for 7:00 p.m., WEDNESDAY, JUNE 10, 1998. In Room 2403 of the Evanston Civic Center. Respectfully Submitted, Christopfieers General Planner, Planning Division Community Development Department May 28, 1998 D'AF_f N(07rAP R.( VELI MINUTES EVANSTON PLAN COMMISSION Meeting of Wednesday, June 10, 1998 / 7:00 p.m. Evanston Civic Center, Room 2403 MEMBERS PRESENT .......... Doraine Anderson, Richard Cook, Sydney Grevas, David Hart, Alvin Keith, Valerie Kretchmer, Marty Norkett MEMBERS ABSENT ............................... Ron Kobold, John Lyman ASSOCIATE MEMBERS PRESENT ................. Ann Dienner, Steve Knutson ASSOCIATE MEMBERS ABSENT .............. Philinda Coleman, Nettie Johnson STAFF PRESENT .............................. Judith Aiello, Arthur Alterson, Dennis Marino, Christopher Wonders OTHERS PRESENT .......................................... Jim Repsold PRESIDING .......................................... Marty Norkett, Chair I. CALL TO ORDER 1 DECLARATION OF QUORUM The meeting was called to order at 7:00 p.m., a quorum being present. Il. CONSIDERATION OF MINUTES, MEETING OF MAY 13, 1998 The minutes were approved without correction. Ill. COMMUNICATIONS Judy Aiello briefed the Commission on the status of the Research Park redevelopment project. She stated that the Hill team is negotiating with cinema companies, hotels and retailers. She anticipated that demolition of the former Ward Manufacturing building could possibly occur within the next month. Regarding parking, she stated that the City and the developer were still working to determine the best possible configuration of the needed parking garage. She stated that no further news had emerged regarding the proposed new office construction at the north end of the Research Park. Finally, Ms. Aiello said that a summary update would be sent to the City Council on June 22. At that time, the development team would be seeking another 90-day extension for the redevelopment agreement deadline. V EVANSTON PLAN COMMISSION / JUNE 10,1998 PAGE 2 of 4 DRAFT, NOTAPPROVJ=D Doraine Anderson asked about the history of the Research Park and why a parking structure was not constructed earlier. Judy Aiello stated that, at the outset, those involved chose not to construct parking because it would have involved issuing public debt before the incremental tax increase had begun to occur. Parking at that point was not a necessity in light of the amount of surface parking that would be made available through building demolition. Now, she continued, the time has come when the parking will be needed. IV. OLD BUSINESS: ZONING AMENDMENT PUBLIC HEARING The Commission reconvened the hearing of Case ZPC 98-04-T: proposed amendments to the following sections of the City of Evanston Zoning Ordinance to define "conference facility" (Section 6-18-3), create an off-street parking requirement for "conference facility" (Section 6-16-3-1, Table 16-B), and add "conference facility" to the list of permitted uses (Section 6-12-2-2) or special uses (Section 6-12-2-3) within the Research Park (RP) District. The Commission continued consideration of this matter from its May meeting. Following deliberation, Valerie Kretchmer moved to recommend that City Council amend the Zoning Ordinance to list a "conference facility" as a permitted use in the Research Park with an off-street parking requirement of 1 space per 50 square feet of gross floor area. David Hart seconded the Motion. The motion passed with a vote of five to two. Voting for: Cook, Hart, Keith, Kretchmer, Norkett. Voting against: Anderson, Grevas. A copy of the verbatim transcript is on rile in the Zoning Division, Room 3700 of the Evanston Civic Center. V. NEW BUSINESS: ZONING AMENDMENT PUBLIC HEARING The Commission convened the nearing of Case ZPC 98-05-T: proposed amendments to Chapter 16, "Off -Street Parking and Loading," and Chapter 18, "Definitions" of the Zoning Ordinance and any related sections of the Zoning Ordinance, including but not limited to Chapter 3, "Implementation and Administration," Chapter 15, "Special Purpose Overlay Districts," and Chapter 12, "Research Park District," to establish regulations and procedures concerning the relationship between certain uses (including but not limited to cultural facilities, including cinemas; recreation facilities; conference facilities; commuter train facilities; offices;. restaurants; retail goods/services; dwellings; and research facilities) and provisions regulating the location of parking spaces, collective parking and shared parking. The Commission continued this hearing to July 8, 1998. After the hearing is closed, a copy of the verbatim transcript will be placed on rile in the Zoning Division, Room 3700 of the Evanston Civic Center. • DRAFT NOT APPROVED VI. COMMITTEE REPORTS EVANSTON PLAN COMMISSION /JUNE 10,1998 PAGE 3 of 4 Zonina Commits Doraine Anderson summarized the recent activities of the City Council vis-a-vis zoning petitions. She stated that Evanston Hospital's proposed garage expansion was approved while a proposed pool hall (to be located on Sherman Avenue in Downtown Evanston) was denied. Comp hensive General Elan Commifft: Valerie Kretchmer stated the Commissioners would be receiving revised drafts of the Comprehensive General Plan in order to approve it for public comment. She stated that a meeting where the Comprehensive General Plan would be the only agenda item would be ideal in order to allow lengthy discussion. Chris Wonders asked if the Commission would prefer a special meeting to be scheduled for June. Valerie Kretchmer stated that it was important for everyone to read the document fully before a discussion takes place. Doraine Anderson suggested that a portion of the July meeting could be spent discussing the document. She added that this would still allow sufficient time for a complete review prior to a public comment period in the fall. Members suggested that the July meeting start at 6:00 p.m. Economic Development Commi ee: Marty Norkett stated that the Economic Development Committee heard from the Downtown merchants at its recent meeting. He mentioned that there are still many evolving issues related to the Research Park Redevelopment. He stated that he was confident the proposed site plan for the development would be modified many times before it was finalized. David Hart asked what the Plan Commission's role was vis-a-vis the Research Park Project at this point in time. Valerie Kretchmer stated that Marty Norkett represents the Plan Commission at the Economic Development Committee. Therefore, it is appropriate for him to hear the opinions of the other Commissioners during their monthly meetings. Dennis Marino stated that the City Council approved funding in the amount of $50,000 for the Evanston Convention and Visitors Bureau. The Bureau has been aggressively marketing Evanston as a tourist destination. The City's Economic Development Fund allocated $25,000, and the additional $25,000 would come from revenue from the City's hotel tax. Doraine Anderson stated that an additional $25,000 would come from Northwestern University. In other economic development news, Dennis Marino stated that the City sales tax will increase to 1.75% starting July 1. He said this increase will bring Evanston's sales tax to the same level as that of the Village Of Skokie. Neiahborhood Commute&: Marty Norkett stated that the Chicago Avenue study was still making progress. Dennis Marino stated that he would send the Commission a revised analysis of anticipated revenue from developments that are "in the pipeline" at various locations along the Chicago Avenue corridor. f EVANSTON PLAN COMMISSION/ JUNE 10, 1 "a DRAFT, NOT APPROVED PAGE 4 of 4 VII. OTHER NEW BUSINESS Marty Norkett stated that Nettie Johnson's first term as an Associate Member of the Commission ended in June. He asked for a motion to appoint her for a second, 1-year term. Valerie Kretchmer moved approval. David Hart seconded. Members voted unanimously in favor. Chris Wonders stated that Philinda Coleman would not be seeking a second term as an Associate Member. Vill. ADJOURNMENT The Commission adjourned at approximately 8:25. The next regular meeting of the Evanston Plan Commission Is scheduled for 6:00 p.m. (one hour earlier than usual}, WEDNESDAY, JULY 8,1998, In Room 2403 of the Evanston Civic Center. Respectfully Submitted, Christaph nders General Planner, Planning Division Community Development Department July 2, 1998 A LP)PD RGWF�D &3 roc RREEC V E-D MINUTES EV)U''gSTON PLAT COMMISSION Meeting of Wednesday, July 8, 199816:00 p.m. Evanston Civic Center, Room 2403 MEMBERS PRESENT ..... Doraine Anderson, Richard Cook, Sydney Grevas, David Hart, Alvin Keith, Ron Kobold, Valerie Kretchmer, Marty Norkett MEMBERS ABSENT ......................................... John Lyman ASSOCIATE MEMBERS PRESENT ............................. Ann Dienner ASSOCIATE MEMBERS ABSENT ................. Steve Knutson, Nettie Johnson STAFF PRESENT .......... Dennis Marino, James Wolinski, Christopher Wonders OTHERS PRESENT .......................................... Jim Repsold PRESIDING .......................................... Marty Norkett, Chair I. CALL TO ORDER ! DECLARATION OF QUORUM The meeting was called to order at 6:00 p.m., a quorum being present. 11. CONSIDERATION OF MINUTES, MEETING OF JUNE 10, 1998 David Hart moved approval of the minutes. Richard Cook seconded the motion. The minutes were approved unanimously without correction. Regarding the evening's agenda, Chris Wonders stated that staff of the Zoning Division would be continuing item VI, the public hearing of case ZPC 98-05-T, until the meeting of August 12, 1998, ZPC 98-05-1(continued from June 10, 1998): Amendments to Chapter 16, "Off -Street Parking and Loading," and Chapter 18, "Definitions" of the Zoning Ordinance and any related sections of the Zoning Ordinance, including but not limited to Chapter 3, "Implementation and Administration," Chapter 15, "Special Purpose Overlay Districts," and Chapter 12, "Research Park District," to establish regulations and procedures concerning the relationship between certain uses (including but not limited to cultural facilities, including cinemas; recreation facilities; conference facilities; commuter train facilities; offices; restaurants; retail goodslservices; dwellings; and research facilities) and provisions regulating the location of parking spaces, collective parking and shared parking. EVANSTON PLAN COMMISSION ! JULY 8, 1998 APPROVED AS CORRECTED PAGE 2of8 Ill. NEW BUSINESS: DRAFT COMPREHENSIVE GENERAL PLAN Chris Wonders stated that he would be presenting a brief overview of the draft Comprehensive General Plan which the Commission had received several weeks earlier. He stated that his presentation would begin with a synopsis of the Comprehensive General Plan revision process to date. This would be followed by a discussion of the text with a particular focus on its continuity. He then explained that staff would facilitate an exercise to identify long-term opportunities for redevelopment, revitalization, and possible changes in land use in Evanston. This exercise would be a starting point for the eventual recommendations of the Comprehensive General Plan related to future land use and economic development strategies. He stated that their observations on such potential redevelopment should be a reflection of ideas they gathered through public meetings, issues identified through numerous neighborhood planning activities, and their own impressions as residents of different neighborhoods. C. Wonders stated that the Vision Statement presented In the Introduction of the document serves as a summary of the chapters that follow. He showed the Commission the paragraphs from the Evanston City Code relating to the Comprehensive General Plan. He explained that the structure of the plan's table of contents relates directly to the City Code's direction that the plan address land use, public facilities, and circulation. Starting with the 1986 Comprehensive General Plan, he explained, a fourth section on Community Environment was added to document in order to address the "softer" issues that make Evanston unique. Such issues, he explained, include community design and landscaping, historic preservation, the arts, and the environment. C. Wonders asked the Commission members to read over the 18 goal statements presented in the Comprehensive General Plan. He underscored that, while these statements are located separately at the beginning of each chapter, when presented together they will represent the Commission's overall philosophy for guiding redevelopment and land use change in Evanston. Following these opening remarks, Chris Wonders asked the Commission to discuss reactions to the draft document presented for the first time in its entirety. Valerie Kretchmer, Chair of the Comprehensive General Plan Committee, began the discussion. She stated that the document encourages growth with sensitivity to Evanston's unique character. It underscores that growth is more likely in some areas than others but that all neighborhoods should recognize that sensitive growth will benefit the entire community. Ron Kobold stated that the Comprehensive General Plan accurately identifies and addresses many of the concerns that have surfaced in various neighborhood planning activities, such as the Chicago Avenue corridor planning process presently underway. APPROVED AS CORRECTED EVANSTON PLAN COMMISSION 1 JULY 8. 1998 PAGE 3 of 8 Sydney Grevas concurred, adding that the idea of balanced growth is reiterated evenly throughout the document and related to the numerous topics the plan addresses. Chris Wonders explained that the policy recommendations included in the draft had appeared before the Commission in the form of previous drafts of individual chapters. Understanding that many of the previous discussions had produced agreement over the policy goals and objectives, C. Wonders asked if there were any specific policy recommendations members still wished to discuss. Members discussed the matter of the current Civic Center as discussed in Chapter 7: Public Facilities. Pending a consultant's assessment of future costs related to the maintenance of the hundred -year -old structure, the decision to extensively renovate the building or to move City agencies to a more cost- effective location may be necessary. The Commission discussed what the Comprehensive General Plan should say about this matter. Members agreed that the plan should continue to recommend adaptive reuse of the existing structure as a residential or possibly an office use. Valerie Kretchmer stated that the language presented in the draft recognizes the desirability of reusing the existing structure and maintaining the property's attractive open spaces should City agencies relocate. She stated that the current language will be sufficient until more specific analysis is available. Members agreed. Ron Kobold commented on the statements related to the Chicago Avenue corridor study. He stated that a preliminary report on the corridor will ideally be presented at the end of September. He asked about the timing of the corridor study vis-a-vis the Comprehensive General Plan. Dennis Marino stated that an approved Chicago Avenue Plan will probably occur closer to the end of the year. Doraine Anderson asked if there was any logic to presenting the Comprehensive General Plan first, including the general themes that will be reiterated more specifically in the subsequent Chicago Avenue Plan. Valerie Kretchmer stated that the two projects are close enough in their completion dates that both groups should be able to synthesize their work. Ron Kobold stated that, in general, everything the draft Comprehensive General Plan states about Chicago Avenue is consistent with the spirit of the discussion emerging through the corridor planning process. He recommended that no additional language be added to the draft on the matter of Chicago Avenue. Dennis Marino said that, since the Comprehensive General Plan emphasizes the importance of strategic neighborhood planning, it would not be inappropriate for it to precede the Chicago Avenue project. He emphasized that the Chicago Avenue Plan's final recommendations and those of the Comprehensive General Plan should be consistent as a matter of sound policy making. He concluded, however, that it would be premature to set a definitive date for the conclusion of either project. Doraine Anderson stated that the Comprehensive General Plan must perform an important balancing act. The plan must provide language that is insightful and not subject EVANSTON PLAN COMMISSION I JULY 8, 1998 PAGE A of 8 APPROVED AS CORRECTED to different interpretations at the same time that it is general and not overly committed to specific promises about the future that cannot be delivered. David Hart agreed, saying that the plan will be used to represent the views of multiple interests. Therefore, the nature of its recommendations must be general. Chris Wonders focused the Commission's attention to a large map of Evanston and asked that members begin to consider areas where redevelopment and revitalization should be encouraged. He stated that, once finalized, a similar map will be included with the draft Comprehensive General Plan that will be presented to the public. Once amended to reflect public reaction, the map and document will be presented to the City Council as a recommendation for an official Comprehensive General Plan for the future of development and public investment in Evanston. He explained that economic development and land use are closely connected. He reiterated that the exercise was not meant to identify specific parcels that should be redeveloped; rather the idea is to consider the overall existing land use of Evanston and to think about general areas were land economics and market demand would provide opportunities for positive change. He drew the attention of the Commission to the language of the draft Comprehensive General Plan. The document encourages that redevelopment complement existing neighborhoods and support the community's business areas. The plan encourages transit -oriented and pedestrian -oriented development that follows the traditional character of Evanston. Members began by discussing the future opportunities at several of Evanston's larger commercial sites. Doraine Anderson identified the former Asbury Street market at Asbury Avenue and Oakton Street as a site likely facing redevelopment in the near future. Valerie Kretchmer and Richard Cook both agreed that the Main Street Commons shopping center at Main Street and McDaniel Avenue should be identified to encourage its redevelopment. Marty Norkett said that the Evanston Plaza at Dodge and Dempster should likewise be identified on the map. He thought that the entire manufacturing area located between Dempster and Main Streets, west of Dodge Avenue, should be circled as an area where redevelopment could occur. Doraine Anderson disagreed, stating that the firms located in the West Industrial District should be retained and supported in their expansion interests if it will help the local employment base. Other members agreed. M. Norkett stated that he felt many of these firms, in the long term, will experience some transformation. Some may wish to grow; others may wish to leave Evanston, he said. Dennis Marino stated that accordingly, the area should be identified as a place where industrial growth and revitalization could occur. D. Marino stated that, in his opinion, the term "redevelopment" signified a specific parcel that would be undergoing construction related to a specific development plan. He explained that "revitalization" could be used as a term to identify general, multi -parcel areas APPROVED AS CORRECTED EVANSTON PLAN COMMISSION ! JULY S. 1998 PAGE 5 of 8 in which growth and change can be anticipated and even encouraged. Such growth and change could relate to economically strengthening areas with public policies and public - private partnerships. Rehabilitation and revitalization should be supported as should the efforts of current business owners working to improve their business districts and to promote continued economic viability. Ann Dienner stated that the Church and Dodge business district, already the subject of a neighborhood planning endeavor, should be identified as an area where revitalization should be encouraged. Valerie Kretchmer stated that there are several industrial sites east of Dodge along Church Street that could experience redevelopment in the future. Doraine Anderson stated that the retaining wall --a remainder of the former Mayfair railroad viaduct located in the same area --should be removed. Sydney Grevas stated certain areas in Downtown Evanston should be considered. She stated that revitalization should be encouraged along the south side of Davis Street from Ridge to the railroad tracks. She stated that the Chandlers building site should be identified for redevelopment. Doraine Anderson stated that similarly Church Street between Oak and Maple has potential for redevelopment. Ann Dienner added the parking area between Ridge Avenue and Oak Street, north of Church Street to the list of fitting and probable redevelopment sites. Richard Cook concurred. Doraine Anderson commented that there are areas owned by Northwestern University that could face redevelopment in the future. She listed the current Long Field and Roycemore Academy, adding that it was preferable that they remain unchanged for the good of the surrounding neighborhood. Several members commented that the Comprehensive General Plan should not be used simply to identify any land that could be redeveloped. Rather, it should focus on general areas where redevelopment and revitalization are desirable as well as probable. Jim Repsold commented that the plan should promote the commercial and residential revitalization along the portion of Dodge Avenue located between Dempster Street and Lake Street. Dennis Marino agreed, adding that the block north of Dempster between Dodge and Hartrey should be similarly promoted for revitalization. Valerie Kretchmer stated that there is vacant land behind the Public Storage facility (Green Bay Road and Simpson Street). She said that it was formerly used as railroad right-of-way and that it is a likely location of redevelopment. Doraine Anderson stated that the Comprehensive General Plan should encourage redevelopment of any land left vacant following the removal of the Mayfair right-of-way on Evanston's west side. Valerie Kretchmer stated that, although there is a redevelopment agreement being negotiated for a large portion of the Research Park, it would make sense to consider the area as a place for long-term development. Dennis Marino stated that, along with the land currently targeted for redevelopment (either by the Arthur Hill Company, Sribcor, or EVANSTON PLAN COMMISSION/ JULY 8, 1998 PAGE 8 of 8 APPROVED AS CORRECTED Mesirow-Stein}, there will remain several parcels that can be redeveloped as future office buildings. Ms. Kretchmer stated that the former Jewel grocery store on Green Bay Road should be identified as a location where redevelopment is encouraged. Marty Norkett stated that Office Depot will likely be leaving the Evanston Plaza and is considering moving to this location. The Commission turned its attention to the Chicago Avenue corridor. Ron Kobold stated that the Neighborhood Committee has discussed the area over the past several months. He felt it was wise to consider the entire corridor as a location where development and revitalization should be encouraged, as opposed to identifying specific sites where redevelopment should happen. Dennis Marino stated that the GreatBank Evanston site at Main Street on both sides of Chicago Avenue will be redeveloped with some degree of certainty. Similarly, Valerie Kretchmer mentioned the former Horizon Federal site where Wild Oats grocery store has expressed interest in establishing a store in Evanston. Chris Wonders drew a line along Chicago Avenue stretching from south of Dempster Street all the way to Howard Street, indicating it as an area where revitalization should be encouraged. Members agreed that the line should then continue west along Howard Street all the way to Asbury Avenue and east to the Howard Street El station. David Hart inquired about the warehouse area west of Green Bay Road and north of Simpson Street. Members discussed the future possibilities of the area. Valerie Kretchmer commented that, while revitalization should be encouraged, the City should also support the continued existence of warehouse and employment areas. These areas are something that have diminished over the years and yet still have a place in the local economy. She stated that revitalization should be encouraged along Green Bay Road between Emerson and the Canal and then between Lincoln and Jenks Streets farther north. Sydney Grevas stated that, in Downtown Evanston, residential redevelopment is underway south of Kaehler Luggage on Sherman Avenue. She said that redevelopment could be considered a possibility between Grove and Lake Streets on the west side of Sherman Avenue. Looking at Central Street, members considered the intersection of Central Street and Gross Point Road, agreeing that the Gross Point Road corridor should be an area where revitalization is encouraged. Marty Norkett recognized that there is already redevelopment pressure occurring along Central Street between Ewing and Central Park. Dennis Marino clarified that, as is the case throughout the exercise, by encouraging the "revitalization" of an area, the Comprehensive General Plan can encourage redevelopment as well as reinvestment and increased support for existing commercial strips as a means of promoting economic development. That way, healthy business and mixed -use areas will remain strong and areas experiencing loss of economic vitality can be enhanced. APPROVED AS CORRECTED EVANSTON PLAN COMMISSION 1 JULY 8, 1998 PAGE 7 of 8 Doraine Anderson stated that the parking area behind the 1800 Sherman Avenue building will likely be the location of redevelopment in the near future. She also stated that the small business area at Foster Street and Maple Avenue should not be excluded from areas where revitalization should be encouraged. Marty Norkett stated that the District 65 headquarters, the historic landmark building located at Ridge Avenue and Dempster Streets should be carefully examined in the future. Presently the school district is investigating costs associated with renovating the facility. Ultimately, the decision of the school board might bring about redevelopment on the property. Chris Wonders stated that the Comprehensive General Plan as drafted recommends considering landscaping and land use enhancements at some of the more significant "gateways" to the community. He identified these gateways as entry points located on arterial streets on Evanston's western and southern borders. Upon the conclusion of the exercise, Marty Norkett asked that the Comprehensive General Plan Committee consider this discussion and refine the idea of showing a map that indicates where revitalization could enhance existing neighborhoods, business districts and the community overall. C. Wonders reiterated that, ultimately, that map will be included with the draft Comprehensive General Plan that will be presented to the public. Once amended to reflect public input, the map and document will be presented to the City Council as a recommendation for an official Comprehensive General Plan for the future of development and public investment in Evanston. Dennis Marino stated that he appreciated the Commission's input on this exercise. He recommended that the Comprehensive General Plan, in its draft form, include a map that simplifies this discussion for readers in order to help increase awareness about the importance of maintaining and enhancing the vitality of Evanston's neighborhoods. He also stated that the plan could indicate several particular sites that the City feels are important for encouraging redevelopment. IV. COMMITTEE REPORTS Doraine Anderson stated that the Zoning Committee had not met since the 4* June session of the Plan Commission. Ron Kobold stated that the Neighborhood Committee was trying to put together its first draft of the Chicago Avenue corridor recommendations by early fall. He stated that the next meeting of the Committee would be canceled, however. M. Norkett stated that the Economic Development Committee met two weeks earlier. He explained that the Research Park redevelopment was still moving forward. He stated that the Arthur Hill team was still working diligently to finalize its decision regarding the tenants for cinemas, hotel and retail spaces. Members discussed the status of the EVANSTON PLAN COMMISSION 1 JULY 8, 1998 PAGE 8 of 8 APPROVED AS CORRECTED redevelopment agreement. D. Marino stated that a public presentation of the proposed redevelopment agreement would occur in subsequent months. Valerie Kretchmer stated that a large portion of the negative publicity related to the redevelopment is highly distorted. V. ADJOURNMENT The Commission adjourned at approximately 8:25. The next regular meeting of the Evanston Plan Commission is scheduled for 7:00 p.m., WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 12,1998, in Room 2403 of the Evanston Civic Center. Respectfully Submitted, h ;ri sTsp h E<r-�n d e rs General Planner, Planning Division Community Development Department August 31, 1998 DRAF71 NOT APPROVED MINUTES EVANSTON PLAN COMMISSION Meeting of Wednesday, August 12, 199817:00 p.m. Evanston Civic Center, Room 2403 MEMBERS PRESENT ..... Doraine Anderson, Richard Cook, Sydney Grevas, David Hart, Alvin Keith, John Lyman, Marty Norkett MEMBERS ABSENT .......................... Ron Kobold, Valerie Kretchmer ASSOCIATE MEMBERS PRESENT .... Ann Dienner, Nettie Johnson, Steve Knutson STAFF PRESENT ............................... Judy Aiello, Arthur Alterson, Marc Mylott, Christopher Wonders OTHERS PRESENT ............... Ryan Nestor, Jacob Fein, Jim Repsold, various opponents and proponents of Zoning Hearing ZPC 98-6-M(R) (please see list of transcripts for names) PRESIDING .......................................... Marty Norkett, Chair I. CALL TO ORDER ! DECLARATION OF QUORUM The meeting was called to order at 7:00 p.m., a quorum being present. 11. CONSIDERATION OF MINUTES, MEETING OF JULY 8, 1998 Doraine Anderson asked that staff correct the minutes of the Zoning Committee report (page 7) in respect to the June meeting, not the July meeting. The minutes were approved as corrected. III. COMMUNICATIONS Assistant City Manager Judith Aiello was present to brief the Commission on matters related to the proposed Downtown development. She stated that the draft Redevelopment Agreement would be received by the Economic Development Committee on August 20. Preliminary elevation drawings would be presented to depict the development concept as envisioned at this point in the process. She stated that public input would be encouraged leading up to the final City Council consideration scheduled for mid -October. A.. EVANSTON PLAN COMMISSION / August 12, 1998 PAGE 2 of 3 DRAFT NOT APPROVED Ms. Aiello continued with a few more particulars related to the project. She stated that negotiations between the City, the developer and commercial tenants was still underway. She added that the current thinking vis-a-vis parking within the development was calling for a structure with 2000 to 2400 parking spaces. In addition, the Sherman Avenue garage would then be the subject of an accelerated strategic planning process in order to both increase its parking capacity and enhance its street level programmatic arrangement, i.e., the possible addition of retail space. As part of this strategic planning, she continued, the City would consider alternatives related to extending the size and duration of the current tax increment financing (TIF) district. She concluded by stating that there might be a planned development process initiated for the Hill proposal. Such a procedure, if undertaken, would involve a hearing at the Plan Commission level. IV. NEW BUSINESS: PUBLIC HEARING ZPC 98-06-MfRI: An application for a Zoning Map Amendment by Barker/Nestor, Inc. (agent for contract purchaser) to rezone the property commonly referred to as 1825 Central Street from 82 Business to R5 General Residential District. The legal description of the property in question was printed in the July 23 edition of the Evanston Review and is on file in the Zoning Division of the Evanston Community Development Department. Likewise, a copy of the verbatim transcript is on file in the Zoning Division, Room 3700 of the Evanston Civic Center. V. OLD BUSINESS: PUBLIC HEARING ,CPC 98-05-T (gontinued from Julv 8. 19981: Amendments to Chapter 16, "Off -Street Parking and Loading," and Chapter 18, "Definitions" of the Zoning Ordinance and any related sections of the Zoning Ordinance, including but not limited to Chapter 3, "Implementation and Administration," Chapter 15, "Special Purpose Overlay Districts," and Chapter 12, "Research Park District," to establish regulations and procedures concerning the relationship between certain uses (including but not limited to cultural facilities, including cinemas; recreation facilities; conference facilities; commuter train facilities; offices; restaurants; retail goods/services; dwellings; and research facilities) and provisions regulating the location of parking spaces, collective parking and shared parking. This hearing was continued until the meeting of September 9, 1998. After the hearing is closed, a copy of the verbatim transcript will be placed on file in the Zoning Division, Room 3700 of the Evanston Civic Center. VI. OTHER NEW BUSINESS Marty Norkett stated that the City would be forming a new Committee to examine issues related to the future of the Sherman Avenue Garage. Membership would be drawn from already appointed members of the Parking Committee, the Economic Development Committee, and the Plan Commission. As such, Mr. Norkett continued, he had asked that Ron Kobold and Sydney Grevas represent the Plan Commission on the Committee. .l DR 4FT, NOT APPROVED E'VANSTON PLAN COMMISSION ! August 12,1998 PAGE 3 of 3 In still other new business, Mr. Norkett stated that he wished to conduct an open discussion regarding the Commission's Associate Membership procedures. In consideration of the hour, he recommended that this discussion be postponed until the September 9 meeting of the Plan Commission. VII. COMMITTEE REPORTS Committee chairs gave brief synopses of their recent committee actions. Doraine Anderson stated that the Zoning Committee had been working on the parking issue, trying to develop a greater understanding of issues related to the concept of shared parking in Evanston. In light of the absence of Valerie Kretchmer, Ms. Anderson also spoke for the Comprehensive General Plan Committee. She stated that the Committee would seek a motion from the full Commission on September 9 to adopt the complete draft Plan for public review. Marty Norkett briefly stated that the Neighborhood Committee was making progress and was anticipating several items of resolution with regard to Chicago Avenue In the near future. Vill. ADJOURNMENT The Commission adjourned at approximately 9:00. The next regular meeting of the Evanston Plan Commission is scheduled for 7:00 p.m., WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 9, 1998, in Room 2403 of the Evanston Civic Center. Respectfully Submitted, October 9, 1998 'Christophr jr General Planner, Planning Division Community Development Department Draft - Not Approved PLAN COMMISSION Minutes of Meeting of September 9, I998 MEMBERS PRESENT: Anderson, Cook, Grevas, Hart, Kobold, Johnson (Associate), Keith, Knutson (Associate), Kretchmer, Norkett (Chair) MEMBERS ABSENT: Dienner (Associate), Lyman, STAFF PRESENT: Alterson, Marino Summary of Action The Meeting was convened at 7:05 P.M. I. PUBLIC HEARING: SHARED PARKING The Public Hearing concerning shared parking was continued from the Meeting of August 12, 1998. After approximately thirty minutes of discussion, the Public Hearing was continued until the Plan Commission Meeting of October 14, 1998. See the transcript of the Public Hearing for comments and content. It. COMMUNICATIONS Dennis Marino summarized the following communications which had been included in the Commission's packet: Schedule of the Downtown Entertainment Complex Review Development Proposal, Schedule of Meetings of the Neighborhood Planning Committee and "Developers Become Bullish on Howard Street." Mr. Marino commented that it was good to see positive press about Howard Street after the many initiatives undertaken by the City and local organizations. Several Commission members concurred. II1. PROPOSED REVISIONS TO THE COMPREHENSIVE GENERAL PLAN On the basis of the recommendation of the Comprehensive Plan Committee, the Commission approved unanimously the revisions to Map 2: " General Areas of Future Redevelopment, Revitalization and Land Use Modifications" which is in Part I of the Comprehensive Plan. Members of the Comprehensive Plan Committee reported that they had carefully considered the draft revisions suggested during the July Meeting of the Plan Commission and most of them had been incorporated into the recommended map. Plan Commission Minutes - September 9,1998 Page Two The Commission next approved, by unanimous vote, the June 1998 draft of the revised Comprehensive Plan as a Public Hearing Draft. The draft had been distributed to members ih June and had been the subject of a detailed presentation in July. Members discussed the scheduling of a Public Hearing in November for soliciting commentary from citizens, business and institutions. It was agreed that the Comprehensive Plan Committee would consider an appropriate date during its next meeting. III. COMMITTEE REPORTS Marty Norkett summarized the Economic Development Committee's deliberations about the Hill project and the focus on interconnectivity with downtown and the characteristics of the proposed retail. He encouraged members to attend the upcoming public meetings sponsored by the EDC and City Council. He advised members that there is a possibility that the Hill proposal could make its way to the Plan Commission if a Planned Development is the appropriate vehicle for Zoning consideration. As part of the Zoning Committee Report, Doraine Anderson asked if a legal opinion had been obtained regarding her concern about the possibility of the Plan Commission action in the matter of the redevelopment of the Maday property on Central Street possibly being perceived as conditional zoning. Arthur Alterson responded that the request for a legal opinion had been made, but a response had not yet been received. In response to a question about revisions to the proposed redevelopment of the site, Mr. Alterson presented the site plan and revised elevations which had been described as satisfactory to the neighbors. Dennis Marino reported that the Committee created to address the Sherman Avenue Parking Garage will meet for the first time in early October. Marty Norkett and Sydney Grevas of the Plan Commission have been appointed to this Committee along with members of the parking Committee and the Economic Development Committee. The Plan Commission's seat on the Community Development Block Grant Committee has remained vacant since the retirement of Tom Stafford from the Plan Commission, reported Dennis Marino. Mr. Marino suggested that the Commission appoint a new representative to this Committee in January to enable this liaison to become familiar with the machinations of the Committee before it enters its proposal review work next summer. IV. OTHER NEW BUSINESS Members briefly discussed Marty Norkett's report of a discussion with Mayor Morton about the process of the PIan Commission appointing Associate Members and the consideration of Associate Members for full membership by the Mayor when vacant positions occurred. Members .+ Plan Commission Minutes - September 9,1998 Page Three agreed by consensus that the current process of appointment should continue. It was hoped that Associate Members would continue to be given serious consideration when fuilimember positions were vacant, but that the Mayor should have discretion to appoint whoever she believes,: is appropriate. The Meeting was adjourned at 9:08 P.M. C- Dennis Marino Assistant Director for Planning Community Development Department it J RA , H©T ��^,.?F0D7—`,'3� MINUTES E VANSTON PLAN COMMISSION SSION Meeting of Wednesday, October 14, 1998 / 7:00 p.m. Evanston Civic Center, Room 2403 MEMBERS PRESENT ............ Doraine Anderson, Sydney Grevas, Alvin Keith, Ron Kobold, Martin Norkett MEMBERS ABSENT ..... Richard Cook, David Hart, John Lyman, Valerie Kretchmer ASSOCIATE MEMBERS PRESENT ............... Nettie Johnson, Steve Knutson ASSOCIATE MEMBERS ABSENT ............................... Ann Dienner STAFF PRESENT .................... Arthur Alterson, Lisa Lyon, Chris Wonders OTHERS PRESENT ................................. Neil Kenig, Jim Repsold PRESIDING .......................................... Marty Norkett, Chair I. CALL TO ORDER / DECLARATION OF QUORUM The meeting was called to order at 7:15 p.m., a quorum being present. It. CONSIDERATION OF MINUTES, MEETINGS OF AUGUST 92 AND SEPTEMBER 9 Doraine Anderson moved approval of the minutes for August 12, 1998. The Commission approved the minutes unanimously. Doraine Anderson moved approval of the September 9 minutes with an amendment to correct a grammatical error present in the section titled, "Committee Reports.". The Commission approved the minutes as amended. Ill. COMMUNICATIONS The communications were received without comment. IV. NEW BUSINESS Ron Kobold gave the Neighborhood Committee report. He stated that the meeting summaries transmitted to the Commission indicate the continuing progress being made by the Committee and the multiple community groups involved with the Chicago Avenue corridor project. He stated that a summary report would be drafted in the near future. Mr. J9 k EVANSTON PLAN COMMISSION ►October 14, 1998 PAGE 2 DRAFT, VOTAPPRCVEA Kobold stated that the Neighborhood Committee was seeking the Commission's consideration of several preliminary recommendations relating to improving existing conditions along the corridor. He introduced several recommendations for capital improvements, namely traffic circulation modifications. Lisa Lyon, Neighborhood Planner, was present to clarify details of improvements. She stated that the Committee decided to bring these separate recommendations forward at this time in order to synchronize with the City's capital improvement program. She stated that the Committee, working with KLOA traffic consultants, is recommending traffic signal improvements at Chicago Avenue's intersections with South Boulevard, Main Street, and Dempster Street. The improvements would allow left turn lights to ameliorate congestion. The traffic consultant reports that congestion at these intersections occurs already and is likely to increase in magnitude through future developments along the corridor. Depending on the conditions of existing signalization infrastructure and other conditions at these intersections, Ms. Lyon stated that the costs could run anywhere from $75 to $240 thousand. She explained that the City Traffic Engineering Division would be pursuing federal Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality (CMAQ) funds. She stated that the City is applying for these funds already to improve signalization along Ridge Avenue. The improvements would update the fixtures with computer timing mechanisms. (The CMAQ program provides a 20% local match for engineering and construction.) The City projects a total project cost of $1.5 million for the Ridge Avenue upgrade. Mr. Neil Kenig, traffic consultant, commented that Evanston's traffic signals are generally outdated and do not meet national standards, adding that their upgrade will prove a considerable investment. Lisa Lyon stated that Chicago Avenue would be the second priority after Ridge Avenue in terms of signalization improvements. Accordingly, the application for Chicago Avenue can be submitted for the 2000 funding cycle. The Neighborhood Planning Committee was asking for a vote of recommendation from the Plan Commission in order to send the proposed improvements to the Planning and Development Committee. At PBD, the issue could be considered for inclusion in the capital improvement program. Ron Kobold stated that the recommendations were consistent with the anticipated content of the forthcoming Chicago Avenue plan, Ron Kobold moved that the Plan Commission recommend the Planning and Development Committee's approval of the signalization and circulation improvements. Doraine Anderson seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously. Discussion of Chicago Avenue development updates ensued. Members discussed the pending arrival of a grocery store across the street from the Jewel-Osco on the 1100 block of Chicago Avenue. DRAT7, ';C7A;2PR0VCD EVANSTON PLAN COMMISSION/ October 14,1998 PAGE V. OLD BUSINESS: PUBLIC HEARING ZPC 98-05-T. 98.07-j (continued frgm September 9. 19981: Amendments to Chapter 16, "Off -Street Parking and Loading," and Chapter 18, "Definitions" of the Zoning Ordinance and any related sections of the Zoning Ordinance, including but not limited to Chapter 3, "Implementation and Administration," Chapter 15, "Special Purpose Overlay Districts," and Chapter 12, "Research Park District," to establish regulations and procedures concerning the relationship between certain uses (including but not limited to cultural facilities, including cinemas; recreation facilities; conference facilities; commuter train facilities; offices; restaurants; retail goods/services; dwellings; and research facilities) and provisions regulating the location of parking spaces, collective parking and shared parking. This hearing was continued until the meeting of September 9, 1998. After the hearing is closed, a copy of the verbatim transcript will be placed on file in the Zoning Division, Room 3700 of the Evanston Civic Center. Vl. OTHER NEW BUSINESS: COMMITTEE REPORTS Members discussed coordination of upcoming zoning hearings and other public meetings. Mr. Norkett stated that the possibility exists for holding special meetings in order to accommodate various important matters. Arthur Alterson commented that it is likely that some zoning issues related to the Research Park development would come before the Plan Commission, but not on or before the date of November 11. Chris Wonders reviewed the Comprehensive General Plan Committee's work plan for the next several months. He stated that the Committee anticipates sending the Comprehensive General Plan to the City Council in late January at the earliest. He explained that the public meeting to receive community reaction to the Plan had been scheduled for November 11. Once that meeting is concluded, the Committee will have a better sense of what work must be undertaken before sending the draft document to the Planning and Development Committee. Members briefly reviewed the status of other Committees, including the Planning and Development Committee and the Economic Development Committee. Sydney Grevas stated that the Sherman Avenue Garage Committee had met and named Marty Norkett as its chair. She added that the Committee had worked to establish goals. She explained that a great deal of planning has to be undertaken before demolition and reconstruction could begin. In the short-term, repairs are being undertaken to address structural concerns. Ron Kobold stated that matters of scale are very important in order that any new garage be successful and user-friendly. Vil. ADJOURNMENT The Commission adjourned at approximately 9:45. The next meeting of the Evanston Plan Commission is scheduled for 6:00 p.m., TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 10,1998, h EVANSTON PLAN COMMISSION / October 14. 1998 PAGE 4 DRAFT, NOrAPPRCl/ED in the City Council Chambers of the Evanston Civic Center. The next regular meeting of the Plan Commission is scheduled for 7:00 p.m., Wednesday, November 11, 1998, also in the City Council Chambers. Respectfully Submitted, November 10, 1998 Chrisfop r onders General Planner, Planning Division Community Development Department P. MINUTES EV:1NSTON PLAN COMIMISSION Special Meeting of Wednesday, November 4, 1998 / 7:00 p.m. Evanston Civic Center, Room 2403 MEMBERS PRESENT ........ :. Doraine Anderson, Richard Cook, Sydney Grevas, David Hart, Dr. Alvin Keith, Valerie Kretchmer, Marty Norkett MEMBERS ABSENT ............................... Ron Kobold, John Lyman ASSOCIATE MEMBERS PRESENT ............... Nettle Johnson, Steve Knutson ASSOCIATE MEMBERS ABSENT ............................... Ann Dienner STAFF PRESENT ............. Judith Aiello, Arthur Alterson, Christopher Wonders PRESIDING .......................................... Marty Norkett, Chair I. CALL TO ORDER / DECLARATION OF QUORUM The meeting was called to order at 7:00 p.m., a quorum being present. 11. NEW BUSINESS. DISCUSSION Judith Aiello was present for this special meeting of the Plan Commission. The topic of the evenings agenda was a briefing on the evolution of the Research Park, up - to and including the current proposal by Arthur Hill and Company. Ms. Aiello presented a map of the 23 acres of land that was proposed for re - subdivision in the 1980s. The re -subdivision yielded 18 parcels originally intended for residential, research -related. and retail development. At the time, nearly one million square feet of retail were proposed. A parking deck was included in the original concept. Ms. Aiello outlined the evolution of the Park Master Plan through the 1980s and early 1990s. In 1986, the Charles Shaw Company became the exclusive developer of the Park and refocused it as the Northwestern University/Evanston Research Park. In light of a downturn in the office market in the early 1990s, the Research Park Board commissioned the Balcor Consulting Group to assess the feasibility of maintaining this office -oriented focus. , 4 EVANSTON PLAN COMMISSION / November 4. 1998 PAGE Z aPAFT, .N07APPR:VFZ: The recommendations of the eventual Balcor report suggested returning to the idea of a retail/mixed-use concept south of University Place. In December of 1996, the Research Park Board issued a request -for -proposals to the development community to seek ideas for a mixed -use entertainment/hotel/retail complex. The developer selection process led to the selection of the Arthur Hill Company as project developer, with the City Council approving the redevelopment agreement in October of 1998. Ms. Aiello stated that executed redevelopment agreement had been sent to the Plan Commission. The agreement sets forth a variety of conditions for the land uses and site planning. She stated that the formal zoning approval would involve a hearing before the Plan Commission in the coming months. She stated that the City and the developer have chosen to pursue a "planned -development" rather than zoning variations in order to secure a better project in the long run. Doraine Anderson asked if details about the proposal would be sent to the Commission prior to the planned -development hearing. She urged staff to provide Commissioners with adequate time to prepare for the complexities of the case. Marty Norkett stated that the special meeting of the Plan Commission had been called for this very reason. Ms. Aiello stated that the land uses proposed for the project would be as follows: retail -frontage at street level, a Cineplex with roughly 3,400 seats (2,400 to 2,600 seats for general audience and the remainder for "art house" cinema); a hotel; a City -owned and operated garage; residential component as suggested at a community -based design charette; a senior -citizen community center; and a performing arts center. Ms. Aiello commented that a fund-raising consultant had been retained to determine the feasibility of raising sufficient funds for the construction of the not -for - profit performing arts center. She stated that the projected cost of its construction ranges from six to ten million dollars depending on the scope of the project. She stated that it remains to be seen if a capital campaign of this scale will be successful. The redevelopment agreement for the proposal is contingent upon numerous factors. Prior to the City transferring any land to the Arthur Hill Company, the developer must have financing in -place for all four components of the project: residential, retail, hotel. and cinema. Ms. Aiello explained that this would safeguard the City against the problem the City of Chicago has experienced with its "Block 37" on State Street. Ms. Aiello stated that all four components must go forward at the same time. To accommodate this priority, the redevelopment agreement allows for possible deadline extensions. Ms. Aiello next spoke to the environmental remediation that may be necessary before construction can begin. She stated that the legal language surrounding the nature of environmental remediation steps was still being drafted. She explained that M ORA.- .:C r ? =40 VFJ EVANSTON PLAN COMMISSION / November 4, 1998 PAGE 3 the basic matter relates to the City incinerator and City yards that were formally located in the area. More importantly, the coal -gasification plant formerly located just east of Maple Avenue is potentially a source of concern. Even so, she continued, all early indications are that the problems will be minimal. South of Church Street, a potential source of contamination will be the former Hertz rent -a -car property where some minor underground storage tank leakage is expected to have occurred. Doraine Anderson asked if the new Levy Senior Activity Center will be completed before the present facility is demolished. Ms. Aiello responded that the City ordinance requires this to be the case. She added that she has personal concerns about the safety of the Levy Center users during the extensive construction in the immediate vicinity. She said that careful consideration will have to be given prior to getting underway with intense construction activity. Richard Cook requested clarification on the time -frame of the project construction. Ms. Aiello responded that all four components must be completed within two years of the start of the first phase. She briefly discussed matters related to coordinating contractors for the various phases. Part of that coordination will involve a Min ority-ownedNVomen-owned/Evanston-based employment opportunities that are a standard City affirmative action contracting policy. Upon completion of the entire project, the redevelopment agreement requires that a local job fair for Evanston residents be held. This will give a first chance for employment to residents of the community. Marty Norkett suggested that Judith Aiello speak to matters related to parking and the downtown development. Ms. Aiello explained that KLOA Traffic and Parking Consultants have conducted several studies related to the project area. Those studies have included the additional factor of the proposed new office structures north of University Place. Developers of those new buildings hope to start construction in the spring of 1999. Taking office, cinema, retail, hotel and residential uses to estimate parking demand, KLOA has come to an approximate total of 2000 parking spaces needed. The original thought was to put all of those spaces in the proposed City garage within the Research Park area. The Parking Committee firmly stated that such a scale would produce a very cumbersome facility that would not be user-friendly. Ms. Aiello further explained that the Parking Committee. in realizing the priority of redeveloping the existing Sherman Avenue garage, saw an opportunity to spread the parking supply to that site. thereby helping to enhance the connectivity between the new development and the existing downtown. The Committee has called for the acceleration of the Sherman Avenue garage redevelopment and the expansion of its capacity from approximately 650 cars to roughly 1200. The property -tax increment generated by the new commercial/residential development could be used to finance this development, if the existing TIF district boundaries were modified. She stated that the EVANSTON PLAN COMMISSION ! November 4. 1998 PAGE 4 ORAFT, NOTAPPROVFO process for expanding the boundaries is being discussed by the special Committee looking at the future of the Sherman Avenue Garage. Finally, Ms. Aiello spoke to the zoning aspects of the Research Park development. She and Arthur Alterson explained that the proposed uses are all allowed by zoning. Height issues, however, will require variations. Rather than pursuing a standard variance application before the Zoning Board of Appeals, the City and the developer will pursue a planned -development approval. This process will come before the Plan Commission for review and recommendation. Ultimately, Ms. Aiello and Mr. Alterson stated, the planned development process will allow more opportunity for discussion and greater City control over the design, height and density. Ms. Aiello proceeded to comment that indirectly related were matters dealing with the proposed map amendment at the intersection of Maple and Foster. The property north of Englehart Hall is currently University -owned. A proposed change in its zoning relates to the land -swap agreement being negotiated by the City and the University. Ms. Aiello stated that the Plan Commission will consider this proposed amendment the following week at a special zoning amendment public hearing. Members briefly discussed different aspects of the University zoning districts related to differences in permitted uses and heights. Sydney Grevas encouraged members to drive by the site prior to the hearing scheduled for the following week. Members discussed the proposal for the Research Park. Doraine Anderson protested the proposed development of a tall residential building west of the CTA tracks. Marty Norkett responded that financial realities have a great deal to do with decisions about building height and mass. He stated that the financials often necessitate increased height. Ms. Anderson recognized this reality, but cautioned the Commission of the potentially deleterious impact of excessive height and mass. VII. ADJOURNMENT The Commission adjourned at approximately 8:15. The next meeting of the Evanston Plan Commission is scheduled for 6:00 p.m., TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 1998, in the City Council Chambers of the Evanston Civic Center. The next regular meeting of the Plan Commission is scheduled for 7.00 p.m.. Wednesday, November 11, 1998, also in the City Council Chambers. Respectfully SAmit ed, -Christophgl'Wonders General Planner, Planning Division Community Development Department December 8, 1998 CRA i7, NOV APPRZ-' ED MINUTES 1EVANSTON PLAN COMMISSION Special Meeting of Tuesday, November 10 1998 / 6:00 p.m. Evanston Civic Center, City Council Chamber MEMBERS PRESENT ... Richard Cook, Sydney Grevas, David Hart, Dr. Alvin Keith, Valerie Kretchmer, Ronald Kobold, Martin Norkett MEMBERS ABSENT .......................... Doraine Anderson, John Lyman ASSOCIATE MEMBERS ABSENT ...... Ann Dienner, Nettie Johnson, Steve Knutson STAFF PRESENT ..... Arthur Alterson, Marc Mylott, James Wolinski, Chris Wonders OTHERS PRESENT ...................................... (see sign in sheet) PRESIDING .......................................... Marty Norkett, Chair 1. CALL TO ORDER 1 DECLARATION OF QUORUM The meeting was called to order at 6:02 p.m., a quorum being present. 11. NEW BUSINESS: PUBLIC HEARING, ZONING MAP AMENDMENT ZPC 98-08-M: An application by Northwestern University, property owner, and the City of Evanston, co -applicant, to amend the Zoning Ordinance and or the zoning map of the City to establish 1935-1939 Maple Avenue (the southeast corner of Maple Avenue and Foster Street) within a district in which "parking facilities" including those for University use are permitted. Following the Commission's consideration of testimony, David Hart moved that the petition to rezone the property from U1 to U3 be denied. Richard Cook seconded the motion. Members voted unanimously to approve the motion. A copy of the verbatim transcript is on file in the Zoning Division, Room 3700 of the Evanston Civic Center. 111. ADJOURNMENT The Commission adjourned at approximately 7:45. The next meeting of the Evanston Plan Commission is scheduled for 7:00 p.m., Wednesday, November 11, 1998, also in the City Council Chambers. EVANSTON PLAN COMMISSION ! November 10,1 NO PAGE 2 Respectfully Submitted, ristopffe'rilWh&Ts General Planner, Planning Division Community Development Department DRAFr, NOTAPPROVED December 4, 1998 DRAF7, N07 APPROVED i MINUTES IEV2UNTSTON PLAN COMMISSION Meeting of Wednesday, November 11, 1998 / 7:00 p.m. Evanston Civic Center, City Council Chamber MEMBERS PRESENT ................ Richard Cook, Sydney Grevas, David Hart, Dr. Alvin Keith, Valerie Kretchmer, Martin Norkett MEMBERS ABSENT ................ Doraine Anderson, Ron Kobold, John Lyman ASSOCIATE MEMBERS PRESENT ........................... Nettie Johnson ASSOCIATE MEMBERS ABSENT ................... Ann Dienner, Steve Knutson STAFF PRESENT ................ Arthur Aiterson, Dennis Marino, Chris Wonders OTHERS PRESENT ............................... (see sign in sheets on file) PRESIDING .......................................... Marty Norkett, Chair I. CALL TO ORDER l DECLARATION OF QUORUM The meeting was called to order at 7:00 p.m., a quorum being present. 11. CONSIDERATION OF MINUTES, MEETINGS OF OCTOBER 14,1998 David Hart moved approval of the minutes for October 14, 1998. The Commission approved the minutes unanimously. III. OLD BUSINESS: PUBLIC HEARING ZPC 98-05-T. 98-07-T (continued from October 14. 19981: Amendments to Chapter 16, "Off -Street Parking and Loading," and Chapter 18, "Definitions" of the Zoning Ordinance and any related sections of the Zoning Ordinance, including but not limited to Chapter 3, "Implementation and Administration," Chapter 15, "Special Purpose Overlay Districts," and Chapter 12, "Research Park District," to establish regulations and procedures concerning the relationship between certain uses (including but not limited to cultural facilities, including cinemas; recreation facilities; conference facilities; commuter train facilities; offices; restaurants; retail goods/services; dwellings; and research facilities) and provisions regulating the location of parking spaces, collective parking and shared parking. EVANSTON PLAN COMMISSION / November 11.19M PAGE 2 DR4FT, NOT APPROVED Arthur Aiterson requested that the Commission continue the zoning cases until the next regularly scheduled meeting (December 9, 1998). Dr. Keith moved approvel of the continuance. Richard Cook seconded the motion. Members approved the motion unanimously. After the hearing is closed, a copy of the verbatim transcript will be placed on file in the Zoning Division, Room 3700 of the Evanston Civic Center. IV. NEW BUSINESS Marty Norkett turned the chairmanship of the meeting over to Valerie Kretchmer, chair of the Comprehensive General Plan subcommittee. Ms. Kretchmer introduced the public hearing on the draft plan. The remainder of the meeting was devoted to listening to citizen comments. Please see attached transcript. V. ADJOURNMENT The Commission adjourned at approximately 8:45. The next meeting of the Evanston Plan Commission is scheduled for 7:00 p.m., Wednesday, December 9, 1998. Respectfully Submitted, ,,, , December 3, 1998 Christop er tObRers General Planner, Planning Division Community Development Department F O o ^ F7o a04 WPPa©VED MINUTES 1EVANSTON PLAN COMMISSION Meeting of Wednesday, December 9, 1998 / 7:30 p.m. Evanston Civic Center, City Council Chamber MEMBERS PRESENT .......... Doraine Anderson, Richard Cook, Sydney Grevas, David Hart, Dr. Alvin Keith, Valerie Kretchmer, John Lyman, Martin Norkett MEMBERS ABSENT .......................................... Ron Kobold ASSOCIATE MEMBERS PRESENT ................. Ann Dienner, Steve Knutson ASSOCIATE MEMBERS ABSENT ............................. Nettie Johnson STAFF PRESENT ............... Arthur Alterson, James Wolinski, Chris Wonders PRESIDING .......................................... Marty Norkett, Chair I. CALL TO ORDER 1 DECLARATION OF QUORUM The meeting was called to order at 7:30 p.m., a quorum being present. Il. CONSIDERATION OF MINUTES, MEETINGS OF NOVEMBER 4, 10 and 11, 1998 Richard Cook moved approval of the minutes to all three meetings. The motion was approved unanimously. III. OLD BUSINESS: PUBLIC HEARINGS ZPC 98-06-MM: An application for a Zoning Map Amendment by Barker/Nestor, Inc. (agent for contract purchaser) to rezone the property commonly referred to as 1825 Central Street from B2 Business to R4 General Residential District. This matter was directed back to the Plan Commission from the Planning and Development Committee of the City Council, following consideration by the P&D Committee to rezone the property to R5 General Residential, with conditions. Chris Wonders explained that, after the P&D Committee referred the matter back to the Commission, the petitioner withdrew the application. He stated that the correspondence between the petitioner and Zoning Division staff had been included in the packet of materials included with the evening's agenda. w EVANSTON PLAN COMMISSION ! December 9,1998 PAGE 2 DRAFr, NOTAPPROVED Doraine Anderson commented that the letter from applicant requests "postponing" the case. She sought clarification as to whether the applicant had actually withdrawn or was at least aware that he had withdrawn. Jim Wolinski explained that the applicant was informed that the case would be withdrawn. He explained that one of the developers had some remaining unpaid bills with the City relating to other properties he owned. The Planning and Development Committee voted to discontinue any consideration of the matter until the developer addressed his delinquent payments. At that time, the developer requested to withdraw the application for the zoning amendment on Central Street. The Plan Commission declared the case closed. MC 98-05-T. 98-07-T (continued from November 11. 19981: Amendments to Chapter 16, "Off -Street Parking and Loading," and Chapter 18, "Definitions" of the Zoning Ordinance and any related sections of the Zoning Ordinance, including but not limited to Chapter 3, "Implementation and Administration," Chapter 15, "Special Purpose Overlay Districts," and Chapter 12, "Research Park District," to establish regulations and procedures concerning the relationship between certain uses (including but not limited to cultural facilities, including cinemas; recreation facilities; conference facilities; commuter train facilities; offices; restaurants; retail goods/services; dwellings; and research facilities) and provisions regulating the location of parking spaces, collective parking and shared parking. Arthur Alterson requested that the Commission continue the zoning cases until the next regularly scheduled meeting (January 13, 1999). Doraine Anderson moved that the case be continued to January 13, 1999. Richard Cook seconded the motion. Members approved the motion unanimously. After the hearing is closed, a copy of the verbatim transcript will be placed on file in the Zoning Division, Room 3700 of the Evanston Civic Center. IV. NEW BUSINESS Members considered the appointment of Ann Dienner to a second one-year term as an associate member of the Commission. Doraine Anderson moved approval of the appointment, Dr. Alvin Keith seconded the motion. All members voted in favor of the motion. Chris Wonders presented the proposed HUD Consolidated Plan Action Items for Fiscal Year 1999-2000. Ann Dienner asked that staff clarify the Plan Commission's role in reviewing Consolidated Plan and its related funding recommendations. Mr. Wonders stated that, in 1994, the U.S. Housing and Urban Development Department (HUD) changed the procedures by which local jurisdictions applied for funding. The new procedure consolidated the once -separate applications for the following: Community Development Block Grants, Emergency Shelter Grants, and the HOME Program which promotes affordable housing. Beginning that year and occurring each year since, the draft application --or Action Plan as it is called --is recommended by the City's Council's Housing W DRAFT, NOTAPPROVED EVANSTON PLAN COMMISSION / December 9. 1999 PAGE and Community Development Act Committee --or CD Committee —and then reviewed by the Plan Commission and the Housing Commission. Mr. Wonders stated that the projects funded through the Action Plan related to many of the issues the Plan Commission considers via its work with the Comprehensive General Plan. The action items fund capital improvements, community and economic development initiatives, housing and homeless assistance programs, and important administrative services within the City government. Mr. Wonders noted the Plan Commission's disadvantage in considering the Action Plan this year due to a lack of representation on the CD Committee. In previous years, Plan Commissioners sat on the CD Committee and reported monthly to the rest of the Commission. Without such a representative, the Plan Commission would lose a key role In this important discussion. Marty Norkett encouraged that the Commission find a !' member willing to join the CD Committee in early 1999 so that he or she will become acclimated to the Committee's work in time for the autumn funding cycle. Chris Wonders highlighted the accompanying spread -sheet which showed funding requests and the resulting Committee recommendations for over forty different programs and services to be funded through federal monies during the coming fiscal year. He stated that most received some portion of the money requested. Members discussed several of the applications that received no funding, including the Southeast Evanston Citizens Planning Committee and the Public Health and Education Association of the Midwest. Jim Wolinski explained the the Citizens Planning Committee had not received funding because the CD Committee felt that the City already allocated resources for other Citizen Planning Committee projects. Mr. Wolinski further noted that the CD Committee had not funded an additional Zoning Officer to serve the Community Development Block Grant Target Area exclusively. Chris Wonders explained that the Target Area lies primarily on Evanston's west and south sides. Mr. Wolinski explained that, without the additional Zoning Officer, the Zoning Division is less -able to respond quickly to zoning complaints. Doraine Anderson asked about the increased funding recommended for the Evanston Public Defenders Office. Jim Wolinski stated that the CD Committee's discussion of the Public Defender's application was limited due to the fact that it reappears annually for funding. Commissioner Anderson questioned whether it was still necessary for Evanston to support both its own legal defense program and Cook County's program. She commented that the Cook County program was greatly improved, making Evanston's program redundant. David Hart moved that the Plan Commission recommend City Council's approval of the HUD Consolidated Plan Action Items. Valerie Kretchmer seconded the motion. Members voted unanimously for the motion. EVANSTON PLAN COMMISSION 1 December 9,1998 PAGE 4 V. COMMITTEE REPORTS DR07; NOT APPROVED Doraine Anderson stated that the Zoning Committee had met the day before to discuss several issues. One issue included preliminary thinking about a new residential district for townhouses. The Committee also talked about following -up on the draft Comprehensive General Plan's recommendation to investigate binding appearance review. She reiterated the proposal that the Commission form a committee in 1999 to undertake this investigation. Valerie Kretchmer stated that the Comprehensive General Plan Committee had met to review the public comments on the draft Plan that were received during and after the November 11 hearing. She stated that the Committee will meet again on January 7, 1999, to discuss revisions based on those comments. She stated that the nature of the revisions amounted largely to massaging the proposed language. It was the Committee's hope that the draft could be forwarded to the P&D Committee meeting by the end of January. David Hart added that, as occurred at the Zoning Committee meeting, the matter of binding appearance review was discussed. The Committee had instructed staff to prepare text revisions reflecting the commitment to forming an investigative committee on the matter. Marty Norkett reported that the Executive Committee had met to discuss officers for the 1999 calendar year. He stated that the Committee recommended Ron Kobold as Chair and Sydney Grevas as Vice -Chair. Doraine Anderson moved the approval of the slate as proposed. Valerie Kretchmer seconded the motion. Members approved the slate unanimously. VI. ADJOURNMENT Members recognized Valerie Kretchmer and Marty Norkett for this, their final meeting as voting members of the Commission. Both were thanked for their dedication in serving the Commission and its various Committees. The Commission adjourned at approximately 8:20 P.M. The next meeting of the Evanston Plan Commission is scheduled for 7:00 p.m., Wednesday, January 13, 1999, Respectfully Submitted, / - January 8, 1999 Christs�W e W fc li 'er General Planner, Planning Division Community Development Department