Loading...
HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes 1993I EVANSTON PLAN COMMISSION MINUTES DRAFT NOT APPROVED Wednesday, January 13, 1993 Room 2403 - 7:30 P.M. EVANSTON CIVIC CENTER MEMBERS PRESENT: Foster, Kretchmer, Rielley, R af fensperger, Currie, Norkett, Prout, PR ESIDING: Chair, Foster ASSOCIATE MEMBERS PRESENT: Anderson STAFF PRESENT: Borys, Ruiz, I. APPROVAL OF MINUTES FROM DECEMBER 9, 1992 Minutes were approved as written. I. COMMUNICATIONS Mr. Foster welcomed Mr. Martin Norkett as a new Plan Commissioner. He also welcomed Ms. Kretchmer as a full Plan Commission member. He asked the Commissioners to introduce themselves for Mr. Norkett's benefit. Mr. Foster asked Ms. Borys to go over the communications where explanation was needed. Ms. Borys explained the staff memo to the Camiros consultants was a listing of all of the changes that the Planning and Development Committee had authorized to be executed on the draft ordinance in preparation for the public hearing draft. Ms. Borys also briefly summarized the proposed 1993-97 Capital Improvement Program (CIP). She said the CIP had been transmitted to the City Council and it would be reviewed as part of their budget deliberations. She said that staff is recommending to City Council that the City not let general obligation bonds for 1993-94 in order that we may keep within the budget policy adopted by the City Council. Projects scheduled to occur in 1993-94 will be funded through cost savings from previously completed projects or project cancellations and other excess funds in the capital fund. She said there were very few new projects in this year's capital plan. Projects that had been scheduled in previous capital plans have been reprioritized in order to meet both construction needs and budget constraints within the capital plan. She said this had been listed as a communication this Year because of the tight budget constraints. However, if the Plan Commission felt the need to discuss the program in more depth, it could be taken off the communications list and discussed as an agenda item tonight or put on the agenda for February for further discussion. Evanston Plan Commission Minutes - January 13, 1993 Page Two III. DEMPSTER/GREENWOOD BIKE PATH Mr. Foster welcomed Mr. Don Wirth, Director of Parks and Recreation to the meeting. Mr. Wirth explained that the Dempster/Greenwood Bike Path plan had been in the planning process for over 12 years. Currently, one pathway Is utilized by both pedestrians and bikes. This has led to injuries and traffic congestion on the path. The plan that he is proposing would separate the bikes and pedestrians on to two different pathways. Mr. Wirth said that community input meetings had been held with both residents of the area and lakefront users. Also in attendance were the boaters and the riggers who use the beach at Greenwood. As a result of these meetings he said a consensus had been reached. As part of the consensus the existing parking lot would not be improved, meaning it would not be paved and drained, but would remain a gravel parking lot. Also included in the plan were landscaping, maintenance of the entrance gates, and some topographical improvements. He said the plan was developed for aesthetics, safety and topographical Improvements. Mr. Wirth said that the Doug Hill and Associates Landscape Architects had worked with the Parks Department on this proposal. initially the Parks Department was to apply for a grant for the Federal Department of Interior. It was to have been a matching grant; however, Mr. Wirth said through conversations with the federal agency staff, the Parks Department would most likely not be applying for the grant due to the slight chances of the City of Evanston actually receiving this grant. Mr. Wirth said his conversations with the federal staff suggested that the grant was specifically for bike path improvements only and that since our proposal included maintenance, landscaping, and other improvements that it would not be appropriate. He said the actual amount needed specifically for the separation for the two paths is below the threshold for which the grant would be eligible. However, $40,000 has been appropriated in the Capital Improvement Plan and that this amount should be sufficient to do the improvements suggested in this proposal. Mr. Wirth said there had been one modification to the plan as it had been earlier proposed. The location of the pathways will be moved closer to the parking lot. This is because currently the beach area is extended due to a low water level in Lake Michigan. However, the 1980's water level was much higher and future water levels could potentially increase more than what currently exists. As a result, the bike path has been moved closer to the parking lot and further away from the water line to protect it in case of rising water levels in the future. He said the area would still be landscaped and the separation of the two paths would be maintained. Mr. Wirth asked for the approval of this plan from the Plan Commission. Ms. Anderson asked if the gravel lot would be maintained. Mr. Wirth said yes, the residents had wanted the gravel lot and the lot will be graded as needed as part of regular maintenance activities. She further asked how would the foliage survive the traffic from the boaters crossing over the landscaped area to the waterline. Mr. Wirth said that the plants are already there and that they are very resistant species. Also, the boaters will be funneled through an entry area and most of the other access to the beach will be fenced off furthermore protecting the foliage. Mr. Wirth said the boaters had originally wanted a sodded rigging area directly on the beach; however, this option was very costly and was not Considered desirable by the rest of the groups involved in the planning of this project. He said although this project had been in the planning process for twelve years, the City is now able to finance the construction of this project. He added it is also part of the original lakefront improvement plan that is nearing the end of its implementation. Evanston Plan Commission Minutes - January 13, 1993 Pape Three Mr. Currie moved that the Plan Commission recommended approval of the concept. The motion was seconded by Dr. Stafford. Motion passed. Mr. Wirth added that the Parks Department would be applying for a reforestation grant from the Small Business Administration for the lakefront as part of the lakefront Improvement plan. He said many trees had been lost due to Dutch Elm disease, age, and attrition. IV. REVIEW OF PLAN COMMISSION REPORT TO ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS Ms. Borys said she had received three comments from Commissioners for inclusion into the report. She said Ms. Marston had requested that reference be made to the need for the utility plan. She said Mr. Prout had suggested language to clarify the review process of the Plan Commission and that Dr. Stafford had requested language regarding the use of open space in Phase I of the John Buck Company proposal. After some discussion, the Commission members decided not to include Dr. Stafford's remarks; however, Ms. Marston and Mr. Prout's Suggestions were approved. With these modifications the Plan Commission approved the report to the Zoning Board of Appeals. V. COMMITTEE REPORTS A. Zoning Committee Ms. Borys explained that at the last review session of the Planning and Development Committee on the proposed zoning ordinance, the Committee had made a reference to the Plan Commission to review downtown planned developments. The Committee requested the Plan Commission to map the required planned development areas in downtown in support of the Plan for Downtown Evanston as prepared by the Plan Commission. The Committee requested the Plan Commission to make its recommendation directly to the consultants so that it could be included in the public hearing draft of the ordinance. They also requested that the Plan Commission report their recommendations to the Planning and Development Committee at the January 1 lth Committee meeting. Ms. Borys said that the Chair of the Committee, Mr. Alex Darragh, had authorized the Zoning Committee of the Plan Commission to prepare recommendations and give them directly to the Camiros Consultants and the Planning and Development Committee prior to being reviewed at the Plan Commission meeting. This was because the Plan Commission meeting was held two days after the January I I th Planning and Development Committee meeting, when the Plan Commission's recommendations were due. tits. Borys said the Zoning Committee of the Plan Commission had met twice with the consultant and staff to develop the recommendation as presented. She said it was reflective of the recommendations of the Downtown Plan while also taking into consideration both redevelopment potential and the special character of Evanston's downtown. After some discussion regarding the proposed zoning. map for the downtown, the Commission accepted the report. B. General Comprehensive Plan Mr. Foster said that two of the members of the General Comprehensive Plan Committee have since left the Plan Commission, therefore these members need to be replaced. Mr. Foster asked for volunteers. Evanston Plan Commission MInutes - January 13, 1993 Page Four C. Other Committees There were no other Committee reports at this time. VI. OTHER BUSINESS Mr. Raffensperger said he had some time to fully review the proposal the John Buck Co. had presented at the previous Plan Commission meeting. He said that he had some issues with the architectural considerations of the proposal. He said he did not bring this up at the December meeting because he was not sure if they were within the purview of the Plan Commission's review; however, he would like to bring them up tonight for discussion by the Plan Commission and for inclusion in minutes of tonight's meeting. He said he had prepared a summary of his issues and had forwarded this list to staff. He had made additional copies for distribution to the Plan Commission tonight. Mr. Foster asked Mr. Raffensperger to go over his five points for the Plan Commission. Mr. Raffensperger said that his point was that as presently constituted the space between the retail and commercial building and the Phase I building would be essentially an empty cavern even if the retail building is much smaller or more likely not built at all since he does not believe a four story commercial space is realistic. Initially the location of the pedestrian entrance to the parking garage being tucked behind the building would be problematic for any building configuration. Any Phase I scheme should indicate firm plans for the pedestrian entry to the garage. Mr. Raffensperger continued on the second point. He said the entry is not well defined and that the drop off point for pedestrians is too close to the sidewalk and could have a negative impact on the pedestrian traffic. He said the entrance to the Phase I building is architecturally undefined. No attempt had been made to create a space by using the two buildings together which would define an entry. Nor does the building confront the street in any way which defines the entrances. Only the driveway cutting under the corner of the building indicates entry and this automobile access is inherently anti -pedestrian. One of the strong points of a large residential building in downtown is that downtown is pedestrian environment, but that these buildings make no Rood accommodation to pedestrian entry. Mr. Raffensperger continued on his third point. He said that although the developer had proposed using marble at the first floor level that this does not address pedestrian scale. He was concerned that this was a non-traditional type building in a very traditional environment. Mr. Raffensperger said that these buildings do not make any accommodation for pedestrian scale either. He said there is no change in building mass and configuration at the ground level. He said it was very much a lost opportunity in a location with as much pedestrian traffic as this to basically ignore the human scale at the street as this building does. He said this point was also expressed at the December meeting by Mr. Petterson and Mr. Rieiley who said that the project does not maintain the street wall in any way. Mr. Raffensperger said he had spent more time reviewing the specifications for the building material included in the Buck submittal. He said there are some bothersome contradictions with the concept of the project as a luxury development. Mr. Raffensperger said the materials listed as standard for the residential interiors include Evanston Plan Commission Minutes - January 13, 1993 Page Five 1/2" wallboard, 1 3/8" hollow core doors, plastic laminate kitchen cabinets, and vinyl composition the kitchen floor. He said none of these materials are in keeping with the Image of a luxury development with studio apartments renting in excess of $800 a month. He said that the Buck Company may try to sell upgrades especially with their condo conversion, but it may be hard to rent these types of apartments at these prices using these materials. Mr. Raffensperger said he had concerns with the height of the project. He said the neighbors surrounding the site had placed a (treat deal of emphasis on the maintenance of a green space at the northeast corner of the site. He said the Buck Company spokesman had also said that keeping the green space had been a high priority. Mr. Raffensperger expressed concern that in effect the planned development is (riving Buck additional height on the promise of that green space. However, he continued in reality either Phase 11-8 or Phase I1-C would minimize or eliminate the green space. Consideration should be given to making Phase I approval contingent on keeping a green space in Phase II or at least a Phase 11 solution that is acceptable to the neighbors. Mr. Norkett said that he thought Mr. Raffensperger's points were well taken. He thought that the architects may have not thought the project completely through before proposing to the Plan Commission. The Plan Commission again expressed concern that the proposal submitted for their review had been somewhat incomplete. Mr. Rielley commented that the design of the building concentrated on maximizing lake views. Ms. Anderson asked if she could have a copy of the marketing study prepared by Buck for the proposal. Ms. Borys said she would have to give that request to the City Manager's office. Ms. Anderson also suggested that a grocery store in the downtown is necessary and wanted to know if there had been any plans proposed for the Walgreen's site adjacent to the Buck proposal along Orrington Avenue. Ms. Borys said that she had not heard of any development plan for that property. Mr. Norkett said that an organic grocery store is being proposed for the former Point One Auto lot on Ridge Avenue. Ms. Anderson said she did not care about organic food and wanted a grocery store downtown. . Y , i III IlLi'Il A l �dul l lill lIA, EVANSTON PLAN COMMISSION MINUTES DRAFT NOT APPROVED Wednesday, February 10„ 1993 Room 2403 - 7:30 P.M. EVANSTON CIVIC CENTER MEMBERS PRESENT: PRESIDING: ASSOCIATE MEMBERS PRESENT: STAFF PRESENT: OTHERS PRESENT: Foster, Rielley, Raffensperger, Currie, Norkett Chair, Foster Anderson Borys, Ruiz, Ms. Elizabeth Kinney, League of Womens Voters; Ms. Carol Qualkinbush, Chair, Evanston Preservation Commission I. APPROVAL OF MINUTES FROM JANUARY 13, 1993 Ms. Anderson requested that the minutes be changed to reflect that the general public would want a full scale grocery store downtown, and that it was not just her personal opinion. The minutes were also corrected to list Dr. Stafford in attendance. With these changes, the minutes were adopted as amended. [I. Communications Communications were accepted. III. UPDATE OF THE GENERAL COMPREHENSIVE PLAN -PRESERVATION CHAPTER Mr. Foster welcomed Mr. Carlos Ruiz. Preservation Coordinator, and kis. Carol Qualkinbush, Chair of the Evanston Preservation Commission. He added that Ms. Mary McWilliams. Acting Director of the Evanston Historical Society, was unable to attend the meeting because of a schedule conflict, but that she would provide her comments to staff at a later date. Evanston Plan Commission Minutes - February 10, 1993 Page Two Ms. Qualkinbush began the presentation. She said the Preservation Commission does interact with the other historic preservation agencies in Evanston. She added that the Preservation Commission's role is the administration and care of the Preservation Ordinance. She said that although the Preservation Commission would like to have binding review, the City Council has approved a rewrite of the Preservation Ordinance to include binding review over demolition of landmark properties. She said the Commission would be working with a preservation law consultant to redraft the ordinance this year. Mr. Raffensperger asked if the Council was receptive to binding review. Ms. Qualkinbush answered that current times have been the most favorable for strenthening the preservation ordinance. She added that the proposed zoning ordinance also gives the Preservation Commission an expanded role, in that the Commission will have binding review over fences. Although, she added, the City Council will have the final authority on any binding review process. Mr. Raffensperger asked if there were any programs to help fund rehab of landmarks as an incentive to prevent demolition. Ms. Qualkinbush and iris. Sorys answered that the City does implement a conservation grant program targeted towards income eligible landmark owners. Mr. Rielley asked how many landmarks are vulnerable. Ms Qualkinbush answered that landmarks located in the downtown may be vulnerable to development. Also small homes that people may want to expand or remodel are also vulnerable. She said larger landmark homes are more secure because either people know that they own a landmark and want to preserve it or because they are less likely to remodel and build large additions. Mr. Ruiz added that however larger homes can be in danger of demolition and lot subdivision. He continued that sometimes owners make what seems to be minor changes to their landmark properties, but eventually the minor changes add up and can alter the integrity of the landmark so much that in a few cases properties no longer had their original integrity and were removed from the list of Evanston landmarks. Mr. Ruiz added that often owners hire contractors without architects to design their alterations. if a landmark is removed from the list, it is essentially considered a demolition. Mr. Norkett asked if the Preservation Commission had influence over the old Marshall Field building. He asked how the grates over the windows were approved. Ms. Qualkinbush answered that the grates were considered an interior renovation and therefore did not fall within the purview of the Preservation Commission. Mr. Norkett said he would favor the Preservation Commission having more authority when improvements or renovations have an impact on the exterior of the structure even if the improvements are within the interior. Ms. Anderson agreed that everything that can be seen from the outside of a landmark should be within the review of the Preservation Commission. Ms. Qualkinbush said that the goals in the Plan for historic preservation were the same. However she said the Preservation Commission did have some suggested modifications for inclusion in the update and gave the Plan Commission a marked up copy of the Plan chapter. Ms. Qualkinbush said that the Preservation Commission is involved in public education and awareness of historic preservation issues, works to foster civic pride in the community and its historic resources, information dissemination, and maintaining the City's Certified Local Government status. She added however that the Preservation Commission does not feel that they have effective legislative authority to protect Evanston's historic resources, especially because any advise or assistance they provide is Evanston Plan Commission Minutes - February 10, 1993 Page Three advisory and does not have to be accepted by the property owners. She added that there is no protection for anything regardless of its contribution to the welfare of the community. However, she also added that there needs to be some meaningful incentives for property owners for participation, such as tax incentives. Right now there is nothing to offer them. She also suggested local bank participation in a public/private partnership for rehab loans at a reduced rate. Mr. Raffensperger noted that some owners may not even know that they own a landmark building. He added that maybe the deed should be tagged so that property owners know that when they are purchasing the property. He said he owned a landmark house but was not aware of that when he originally purchased the home. He said tagging the deed would prevent surprises. Ms. Qualkinbush said that the Preservation Commission sends out newsletters to all landmark owners to foster a sense of belonging, and to notify landmark owners of current events and issues. Ms. Qualkinbush said that neighborhoods that are historically preserved will bring more tax revenue into the City. She added that historical preservation can essentially promote strong economic development because many people would rather live and work in a well maintained older community that integrates the new with the old. Mr. Raffensperger cautioned the Preservation Commission to proceed gingerly on historic preservation as promotion of economic development because there is a great potential for inherent conflict between the two areas. Ms. Anderson suggested that the landmark properties receive a plaque to mount on their homes. Ms. Qualkinbush said the National Landmarks receive a plaque, and state landmarks receive a certificate but that Evanston landmarks do not receive anything. She said this is a good idea but due to budget constraints, may not be feasible. Ms. Anderson suggested that maybe the plaques could be available at a reduced rate for those owners who wish to purchase them. It was also suggested that maybe the real estate community would like to participate in donating funds to such a venture, especially because landmark status is noted by the realty offices as a feature in the listings. Ms. Qualkinbush said that public/private ventures for preservation awareness should continue. She said that the public education programs should continue as well as the housewalks, awards, and information dissemination. She added that the Preservation Commission will be starting up their lecture and speaking series with the District 65 schools to promote architectural education and historic awareness at the grade school level. Ms. Qualkinbush stated that the Preservation Commission would be willing to help rewrite the Preservation Chapter of the Plan if the Plan Commission would like. She said that some paragraphs could be deleted as some of the work described has already been done. Mr. Rielley asked if there were buildings that are not on the list that the Commission would like to have included as a landmark. Ms. Qualkinbush said that there were some. and that there were some districts that the Preservation Commission would like to see listed. She said Evanston is unique in regards to the types and amounts of landmark structures. She said Evanston was growing and being built at the time by nationally known architects that either were from the area or were specifically hired to design the buildings. She said that in the Chicago area only Oak Park had similar number and quality of landmark buildings. IL Evanston Plan Commission Minutes - February 10, 1993 Page Four Mr. Foster asked as a City how we are doing in regards to historic preservation. Ms. Qualkinbush answered that there is a lot of interest in Evanston for historic preservation. She said there are a lot of good buildings in the community. However she said a lot of good buildings have been lost. She added that as land prices increase, tear downs may become a more significant problem. She said that although preservation is doing relatively well now, there may be progressively more problems if the preservation ordinance and programs are not updated. She said .the Preservation Commission markets themselves as a service to property owners rather than as a stumbling block because they do provide free architectural advice and consultation. She said that the Commission reacts as quickly as possible to any requests for assistance. Mr. Foster thanked Ms. Qualkinbush for her presentation. IV. CONSIDERATION OF 1993 AGENDA Ms. Borys said that the enclosed memo was a recap of the agenda ideas that were discussed at the Plan Commission retreat. The Commission members agreed that the list was comprehensive and also agreed that all of these items needed the Commission's attention. Mr. Foster assigned Mr. Norkett to replace Mr. Belmonte as Chair of the Neighborhood Commercial District Committee. Mr. Foster also said he would continue work on establishing a dialogue with the City Manager, and other boards and commissions, and Council as needed. Mr. Foster also assigned Mr. Stafford to act as the Plan Commission observer at Planning and Development Committee meetings. He said this liaison role would be for observation purposes only and would report P&D actions back to the Plan Commission at regular meetings. V. DOWNTOWN ZONING: REVIEW OF PLAN COMMISSION RECOMMENDATIONS Ms. Borys said that this item was placed on the agenda in case anyone had additional questions regarding the Zoning Committee's recommendation for downtown zoning. She briefly went over the zoning recommendations and answered some clarifications. The Plan Commission accepted the report. Mr. Foster said he would attend the appropriate Council meetings to represent the Plan Commission's position. VI COMMITTEE ASSIGNMENTS Mr. Foster reviewed the Plan Commission's roster of existing committee structure. Mr. Currie said he was incorrectly listed as a member of the Appearance Review Committee. Mr. Norkett was added as the Chair of the Neighborhood Commercial District Committee. ,Mr. Foster created a new committee to review the Plan Commission's role in the City's current and new development process. Mr. Foster said he would attend the meetings of this committee to establish the mission and charge of the group. Mr. Foster assigned girls. Anderson, Mr. Norkett, Mr. Currie, and Mr. Raffensperger to the committee. He said he would appoint a chair at a later date, once the committee is more established. VII. LIAISON REPORTS There had been no committee meetings since the last Plan Commission meeting. Mr. Raffensperger updated the Plan Commission on the last Economic Development Committee meeting. Ms. Borys undated the Commission on recent Planning and Development Committee actions and those of the City Council. H u u I i i u i . i iWAll idi II s Evanston Plan Commission MInutes - February 10, 1993 Page Five Vill. OLD/NEW BUSINESS With no old or new business to report, the meeting was adjourned. STAFF: l , DATE: 7Y44/48 0 1 1 . . I N l i i M i i 1 1 . i i . . i Y u I i I i Y VI 1. I110101 I� i EVANSTON PLAN COMMISSION MINUTES DRAFT NOT APPROVED Wednesday, March 10, 1993 Room 2403 - 7:30 P.M. EVANSTON CIVIC CENTER MEMBERS PRESENT: PRESIDING: ASSOCIATE MEMBERS PRESENT: STAFF PRESENT: I. COMMUNICATIONS Foster. Raffensperger, Prout, Stafford, Rielley. Kretchmer Chair, Foster Anderson Borys, Tonkinson Communications were accepted without comment. II. APPROVAL OF MINUTES FROM FEBRUARY 10, 1993 Approval of minutes was deferred to the April meeting. Ill. REVIEW OF GENERAL COMPREHENSIVE PLAN - STREETS CHAPTER Mr. Foster welcomed Mr. Tonkinson to the meeting. Mr. Tonkinson said that Mr. Jennings was unable to attend the meeting tonight due to a schedule conflict, but that he would try to answer questions that deal with street traffic as best he could. In response to what were the major issues facing Evanston street systems today, fir. Tonkinson answered that the Chicago Area Transportation Study which is the regional transportation planning agency for the Chicago area wants to identify the federal routes that will receive federal money within Evanston. 10r. Tonkinsor, said this is a problem because not all routes that are considered local in the eyes of the federal government or the state really serve local traffic. Mr. Tonkinson said that the General Comprehensive Plan is used to justify fund expenditures and to justify which streets should receive federal funding through the designated street system that is included in the plan. He said his office is currently working with the Illinois Department of Transportation and the CATS staff to identify streets within Evanston that serve local and intercity traffic. He said that although most of Evanston Streets have changed very little. Green Bay Road has recently been widened to 50' throughout the length of the road. He said this was done in order to accept federal money that would pay for the resurfacing and the reconstruction f Evanston Planning Commission Minutes - March 10. 1993 Page Two of Green Bay Road. Standards set by the federal government had to be followed in order to use the money for the project. One of the standards was to maintain a SO' width throughout the length. Mr. Tonkinson said that there were I & 1/2 mile of unpaved streets in Evanston. He said he expected them to be paved by 1995. He said the problem with completing these streets is because they are partially owned by Wilmette and partially privately owned and coordination between private land owners and another town has caused some difficulty. He said most of the streets in CD -eligible areas have been paved; however, if CD money is applied and not granted in a particular year the City waits until CD money can be allocated to complete those streets. Mr. Tonkinson said some streets are planned to be vacated. He said there was a street by the high school that was not in use and also one on the Northwestern campus east of Sheridan Road. He said neither of these streets are planned for paving and are not publicly used. Dr. Stafford questioned if the paving of unpaved street presents a problem for flooding, especially into residential basements. Mr. Tonkinson said that the pitch of the street is such that the water is redirected to the sewer system and not into private property. Dr. Stafford also asked if something could be done about the left turn signal onto Dempster. He said that it is ignored by many drivers and causes problems with traffic flow. Mr. Tonkinson said that was basically an enforcement issue and that its very hard to maintain control at one intersection at all times. A question was raised regarding the timing of the signals on Green Bay Road between McCormick and Noyes. Mr. Tonkinson said that the entire Green Bay Road traffic signal timing system will be reviewed and reset as necessary once the project is completed. Ms. Kretchmer asked if bikeways and bikelanes could be considered part of the street system. She said currently it is very difficult to get from the north side of Evanston to the south side or to downtown on a bike. She said there is little right-of-way designated for bikeway traffic. Mr. Tonkinson answered that although there are no applications currently in progress for right-of-way bikeway travel that bikelanes and bikeways can be considered part of the street system. He briefly described the Illinois Department of Transportation's new enhancement program which will fund selected applications for various types of traffic and street system improvements including bikeway and bikelane designation. Ms. Anderson asked if the bikeway system along the lakefront could be considered for the enhancement program. Mr. Tonkinson answered that currently the Parks Department has been very successful in obtaining money from the various grants offered by the Federal Department of Interior and that IDOT money has not been applied for as a result. his. Borys also added that because these bikepaths have received money based on therr description as recreational use that to apply for the Illinois Department of Transportation money for the sarne path as a transportation alternative use would be in conflict. She said that Since the Parks Department has been sa successful in obtaining money through the recreational designation that the City has not applied for grants for these bikepaths under another designation. Mr. Foster asked if traffic counts in Evanston have changed significantly in this past six years. Mr. Tonkinson said that he would have to refer that question to Mr. Jennings as he was unaware of the statistics. Evanston Planning Commission Minutes - March 10, 1993 Page Three Mr. Tonkinson distributed to the Plan Commission a street paving fact sheet which described the various streets that had been paved since 1981. He said this may be helpful in updating the Comprehensive Plan maps and some statistical data. The Plan Commission discussed including bikeways and bikeway oath goals in the Streets Chapter; however. it was concluded that there was a chapter that dealt with bikeways already in the General Comprehensive Plan and goals and objectives related to that issue would be included in that chapter instead. With no further questions Mr. Foster thanked 'sir. Tonkinson for attending the meeting and providing the information to the Plan Commission regarding the City streets system. IV. COMMITTEE REPORTS Mr. Raffensperger reported on the Appearance Review Committee. He said that the Committee expects to present a final copy of design guidelines for Plan Commission approval in April. Once the Plan Commission would provide approval on the draft document it would be sent on to the Plarning and Development Committee for their comment. He said that the Committee had discussed the possibility of having the guidelines typeset printed and photos included in the report through scanning. He said this would be easier in the long run for xerox reproduction as the first run would he very clear. He said the Committee estimated that it would cost between $200 and $250 for the typesetting of the document. Mr. Raffensperger asked Ms. Borys if there was money available in the Planning Department's budget for such a project. tiffs. Borys replied that this had not been a planned expense in the Department's budget; however, she suggested that we first contact various agencies such as the Chamber of Commerce and community reactors to see if they could afford donations for the typesetting and reproduction of the document. Mr. Raffensperger said he would also pursue his contacts to encourage some pro bono work or help with funding for the typesetting and graphic design before we would look to the Planning Department's budget. Mr. Raffensperger also said that he and the Committee would work to determine how large the first run of the document would be in order to get a better sense of how much it would cost. Mr. Foster reported on the General Comprehensive Plan Committee. He said the Committee had met and would begin discussing rules and procedures for the Plan Commission. He said the Committee had also begun preparing an agenda for the Ad Hoc Committee as well as the agenda for tonight's Plan Commission meeting. He said an issue had arisen that needed Plan Commission approval and that he had discussed it with the General Comprehensive Plan Committee at their last meeting. He said the issue was directed to the Plan Commission from the Planning and nevelopment Committee. The issue he said would be for the Plan Commission to consider cross examination and subpoena power and additional distance requirements for testimonv regarding of Planned Development projects. Mr. Foster sairl the Planning and Development Committee had also asked the Plan Commission to advise if they would consider putting such requirements in the Plan Commission rules and procedures or in the zoning ordinance. Mr. Raffensperger recommended that anv requirements regarding the procedures of the Plan Commission be written in the rules and procedures of the Plan Commission and not the zoning ordinance. Evanston Planning Commission Minutes - March 10. 1993 Page Four The Plan Commission discussed the difference between cross examination and subpoena power. Mr. Rielley commented that he did not believe it appropriate for citizens to have the authority to subpoena witnesses regarding planned development projects. He questioned whether it was really enforceable and therefore a pertinent rule. He also expressed concern regarding cross examination of witnesses by the public. Mr. Rielley explained that giving the power of the Plan Commission to other groups and individuals severely undercut the authority of the Plan Commission and its ability to run an effective hearing process. After some discussion, Mr. Rielley made a motion that the right to cross-examine, present witness, and subpoena should be provided solely to the Plan Commission or appropriate hearing body. The Plan Commission voted on this motion. The motion passed three to two. (Ayes: Raffensperger, Rielley, Kretchmer; Nays: Stafford. Prout) The Planning Commission then discussed the number of feet surrounding a planned development project wherein property owners could cross-examine the witness. After some discussion, Mr. Rielley made a motion that notification of the Planned Development hearing should be provided to property owners within a 500 feet radius of the planned development site. Further, all other zoning relief hearings will maintain the existing 250' radius for notification. This motion was passed unanimously. The Plan Commission also recommended that all notification regulations should be provided in the Plan Commission rules and procedures rather than in the zoning ordinance, Mr. Foster asked staff to prepare a memorandum conveying the recommendations of the Plan Commission to the City Council regarding these issues. With no further old or new business to discuss the meeting was adjourned. STAFF: DATE: 7Y49/52 t BVANSTON PLAN COMMISSION MINUTES DRAFT NOT APPROVED Wednesday, April 14, 1993 Room 2403 - 7:30 P.M. EVANSTON CIVIC CENTER MEMBERS PRESENT: Foster, Kretchmer, Marston, Norkett, Raffensperger, Stafford PRESIDING: Chair, Foster STAFF PRESENT: Wolfensperger OTHERS PRESENT: Nancy Burhop, Coordinator, Evanston Recycling Center, Pat Frank, Chair, Environmental Control Board I. APPROVAL OF MINUTES FROM FEBRUARY 10, 1993 AND MARCH 10, 1993 The minutes from the February 10, 1993 meeting were approved as submitted. Mr. Stafford asked that paragraph two on page two be clarified to reflect that he was concerned not so much with the pitch of the street but with the increase in the amount of water runoff into the sewer system. On page four of the March minutes, Mr. Stafford stated that his comments regarding the cross-examination of witnesses and the power of subpoena as they relate to the planned developments were omitted. He asked that the minutes be clarified to state that questioning and presentation by citizens is an important step in the planned development process. With these changes, the March 10, 1993 minutes were unanimously approved. II. COMMUNICATIONS No communications were received. III. REVIEW OF GENERAL COMPREHENSIVE PLAN - WARD CHAPTER Mr. Foster welcomed Nancy Burhop, Coordinator of Evanston Recycling Center and Pat Frank, Chair, Evanston Environmental Control Board. Mm He added that Linda Lutz, the Director of the Ecology Center was unable to attend as scheduled. Mr. Foster asked Ms. Burhop to give the Commission an overview of the City's recycling program. Ms. Burhop began her presentation by explaining that the City's recycling center currently processes approximately 1.5 million pounds of material per month. She continued by saying that the center could process five to ten tons more per week and the market is competitive for office paper. In response to a question from Ms. Kretchmer, Ms. Burhop explained that some offices do recycle. She stated that Northwestern University and St. Francis Hospital recycle. Ms. Burhop said that many of the banks do not recycle because their material is shredded and then it becomes difficult to sort. Ms. Burhop said that there are eighty different grades of paper. The City recycles three different types. Ms. Kretchmer asked if curb side pickup will be expanded to include other materials. Ms. Burhop responded that it is unlikely because the center was designed to only handle a limited number of materials that have to be sold in bulk. She said that no extra room is available to store material, until there is enough to sell. Mr. Raffensperger asked if there had been any educational effort directed to large employers. Ms. Surhop said that she had coordinated such an effort but very few companies responded. She continued by saying that she would like to work with the Chamber of Commerce on this issue. Mr. Foster asked Ms. Burhop to explain any goals that she would like to accomplish. Ms. Burhop stated that she would like to see all eighteen buildings owned by the City participate in the program. She said that currently only the Civic Center is involved. Mr. Foster asked Ms. Burhop to explain the relationship the City has with the Private Industry Council of Northern Cook County. Ms. Burhop explained that the Private Industry Council of Northern Cook County hires the Recycling Center's employees. She said that they are all Evanston residents that have had employment difficulties. Ms. Burhop stated that they are trained one day a week to learn job training skills. Mr. Raffensperger asked if Chicago starts a recycling program if it will saturate the market and lower the cost of selling recycled materials. Ms. Burhop responded that she can only speculate on this issue but felt that Evanston's material is of higher quality and hence will be more desirable. Mr. Stafford asked if there has been any movement requiring a bottle deposit law. Ms. Burhop said that this issue has come up in the State Legislature many times but has been defeated. F i Mr. Foster asked if there is a formal recycling plan. Ms. Burhop responded not yet but that she is working on one. Mr. Norkett asked if apartment buildings recycle. Me. Burhop stated that they have the opportunity but not many building owners choose to participate. She said that many condominium buildings do recycle. Me. Foster thanked Ms. Burhop and asked Ms. Frank to begin her presentation. Ms. Frank, Chair of the Environmental Control Board began by saying that the Board was originally established to oversee air quality from incinerators. She continued by saying that the Board currently discusses such uses as energy, radon, electromagnetic fields, noise, pest management and household hazardous waste. Ms. Frank stated that they have also worked on energy conservation issues including the design of the new public library. Ms. Frank handed out copies of the Environmental Control Board's plan. She stated that in addition to offering advise to the public and the city on environmental issues the Board also monitors research on such topics as radon and electromagnetic fields. In response to a question from Ms. Kretchmer, Ms. Frank explained the history of the gypsy moth and why the City must try and eradicate them. She stated that in some areas of the country gypsy moths can only be controlled but in Illinois they can be eradicated. Ms. Frank stated that currently the Board is also examining the Clean Air Act and discussing what impact it may have on Evanston. She stated that Evanston is pleasant, Fairly clean environmentally and maintains a good status quo. Ms. Kretchmer said that Evanston and many other more mature communities may benefit from the Clean Air Act because they can offer public transportation. She stated that the Chamber of Commerce may be able to use this as a marketing tool. Ms. Kretchmer said that this fact should also be included in the Comprehensive Plan. Ms. Frank said that she would like to see the City require an energy audit when someone applies for zoning relief. Ms. Frank stated that Evanston Township High School replaced half of their light fixtures with a new energy efficient model and the new fixtures have been paying for themselves. Ms. Frank said that an energy tax credit is available for industries. Mr. Stafford said that requiring an energy audit is a good idea. He said that the ZBA may not be aware of this opportunity and he encourage Ms. Frank to express this idea to the ZBA. Mr. Stafford said that he would like to promote the use of small electric cars. Ms. Frank said that there are many opportunities to encourage energy efficiency. 3 She stated that the architects who designed the new Library have done an excellent job with regards to incorporating energy efficient methods. Ms. Frank explained the Boards involvement with Northwestern University on the design of the lagoon. Mr. Raffensperger said that the Plan Commission could require energy audits For planned development projects. He asked if there are any hazardous waste sites located in Evanston. Me. Frank responded that there are no superfund sites but she would file a freedom of information request to determine if there are any hazardous waste sites in Evanston. Ms. Marston said that she thinks requiring developers to submit an energy audit is a good idea. She asked staff to present this idea to the City Attorney's for a legal opinion. Ms. Frank said that she would like to see an energy lab established in the Research Park. She continued by saying that she would like to see an educational display set up at the new Library. Mr. Foster thanked Ms. Frank for her presentation and stated that the Committee would proceed to the next order of business. IV. LIAISON REPORTS Mr. Foster asked Mr. Raffensperger if he had anything to report from the Economic Development Committee (EDC). Mr. Raffensperger stated that at the last EDC meeting they discussed ongoing development proposal as well as the Buck redevelopment project. He stated that the Buck Company has revised their plans for the redevelopment of the Washington National property and have also asked for financial assistance from the City. Mr. Raffensperger stated that Buck is requesting $2.5 million in TIF money and $3.5 million in yield guarantees or $5 million in TIF. He continued by saying that the EDC was split on this proposal so they passed it on the City Council without a recommendation. It was then passed from the City Council to a joint meeting of the Planning and Development Committee and the EDC. He stated that they discussed the Zoning Board of Appeals' (ZBA) recommendation. Mr. Raffensperger said that the suck Company claims that they can't cost effectively develop what was approved by the ZBA. Mr. Raffensperger said that a legal opinion had been requested as to whether the City Council could approve a project that would be completed in one phase and not reviewed by the ZBA. He asked staff to provide copies of this opinion. Ms. Kretchmer asked if the entire block where Washington National is located could qualify for TIF money. Mr. Raffensperger said that this possibilit-,, was discussed. He stated that the City may not want to encourage redevelopment of some parcels because they contain character giving buildings. Mr. Raffensperger said that it would be appropriate for the Plan Commission to comment on such a proposal if it is considered. 4 Mr. Foster asked if there is a formal recycling plan. Ms. Burhop responded not yet but that she is working on one. Mr. Norkett asked if apartment buildings recycle. Ms. Burhop stated that they have the opportunity but not many building owners choose to participate. She said that many condominium buildings do recycle. Ms. Foster thanked Ms. Burhop and asked Ms. Frank to begin her presentation. Ms. Frank, Chair of the Environmental Control Board began by saying that the Board was originally established to oversee air quality from incinerators. She continued by saying that the Board currently discusses such uses as energy, radon, electromagnetic fields, noise, pest management and household hazardous waste. Ms. Frank stated that they have also worked on energy conservation issues including the design of the new public library. Ms. Frank handed out copies of the Environmental Control Board's plan. She stated that in addition to offering advise to the public and the city on environmental issues the Board also monitors research on such topics as radon and electromagnetic fields. In response to a question from Ms. Kretchmer, Ms. Frank explained the history of the gypsy moth and why the City must try and eradicate them. She stated that in some areas of the country gypsy moths can only be controlled but in Illinois they can be eradicated. Ms. Frank stated that currently the Board is also examining the Clean Air Act and discussing what impact it may have on Evanston. She stated that Evanston is pleasant, fairly clean environmentally and maintains a good status quo. Ms. Kretchmer said that Evanston and many other more mature communities may benefit from the Clean Air Act because they can offer public transportation. She stated that the Chamber of Commerce may be able to use this as a marketing tool. Me. Kretchmer said that this fact should also be included in the Comprehensive Plan. Ms. Frank said that she would like to see the City require an energy audit when someone applies for zoning relief. Ms. Frank stated that Evanston Township High School replaced half of their light fixtures with a new energy efficient model and the new fixtures have been paying for themselves. Ms. Frank said that an energy tax credit is available for industries. Mr. Stafford said that requiring an energy audit is a good idea. He said that the ZBA may not be aware of this opportunity and he encourage Ms. Frank to express this idea to the ZBA. Mr. Stafford said that he would like to promote the use of small electric cars. Ms. Frank said that there are many opportunities to encourage energy efficiency. 3 i Mr. Norkett expressed concern regarding the loss of businesses to other neighboring communities. He stated that Evanston needs to retain existing businesses. Mr. Norkett stated that managers of the Old Orchard Shopping Center have approached Evanston business owners about relocating. Mr. Norkett handed out copies of an article regarding the expansion of Old Orchard. He stated that the City needs a plan for the Main Street shopping area. Ms. Marston said that she does not think the Washington National site will be redeveloped with office or retail. She stated that the City needs to continue negotiations with Buck. T. Stafford said that he had a copy of the legal opinion on the Buck proposal and it says that the City Council can make modifications to the development plan as long as it is within the parameters of the ZBA approval. D. Raffensperger said that the EDC also discussed the sign ordinance with the Evanston new car dealers. He said that they would like to see the Sign Ordinance revised so it is more workable for them. Mr. Norkett said that he would like to get the neighborhood business district committee back together. Mr. Foster agreed with Mr. Norkett and said that this committee should deal with issue such as competition from other communities. Ms. Kretchmer said that the specialty shops in town are doing very well. Mr. Raffensperger suggested that the neighborhood business committee talk to Evmark about their plans. V. OTHER BUSINESS Ms. Wolfensperger gave a brief update on the comprehensive amendments to the Zoning Ordinance and informed the Committee that the City Council is scheduled to adopt the Ordinance on April 26, 1993. Mr. Foster suggested that the Commission present a policy statement at this meeting regarding the Commissions' role. Ms. Marston suggested that this statement also stress the need for this process to be completed. &(i1II,i I;'I:x,kF The Committee adjourned at 10:05 P.M. Janice Wolfensperger Date 5 �I 4 MINUTES DRAFT NOT APPROVED Wednesday, May 12, 1993 Room 2403 - 7:30 P.M. EVANSTON CIVIC CENTER HERS PRESENT: Currie, Norkett, Raffensperger, Stafford, Rielley, Kretchmer PRESIDING: Chair, Foster ASSOCIATES PRESENT: Anderson STAFF PRESENT: Borys, Ruiz, Seigel, Wolfensperger OTHERS PRESENT: Ron Kobold I. APPROVAL OF KINUTES FROX APRIL 14, 1993 Foster, Dr. Stafford had one change to the minutes. He said under Item 3, the word ward should be changed to environment. With these changes the minutes were approved. II. COMMUNICATIONrS Ms. Borys went over the various communications that were included in the Plan Commission packet, including Economic Development Committee Minutes and Agendas, an updated version of the Site Plan Appearance Review Ordinance and a memo from Don Wirth to Eric Anderson regarding an update on the Gypsy Moth spraying campaign. Communications were accepted without comment. III. PRESENTATION FROM JACK SIEGEL, FIRST CORPORATION COUPSEL Mr. Foster welcomed Mr. Siegel to the Plan Commission and thanked him for attending tonight's meeting. Mr. Siegel began his presentation by saying the Plan Commission would assume a major role in the zoning administration of the City of Evanston. He said zoning is an implementation tool of the General Comprehensive Plan and that the Plan Commission should be fully involved in zoning activities. He said that state statute does not make zoning dependent on a general comprehensive plan, but it is a good policy to do so. He said the Illinois statutes are twofold. One is a zoning enabling act which involves drafting the zoning ordinance, Evanston Plan Commission Minutes - May 12, 1993 Page Two due process through the Zoning Board of Appeals, amendments and variations. He said however, that the Supreme Court has said that zoning and planning is a home rule activity. He said the other part of the state statute is a section that establishes plan commissions. He said that the Plan Commission is purely advisory to the City Council. The functions of the plan commission would be for amendments which is a legislative act to change the text or the map of the zoning ordinance. Another function will be granting of variations, which does not change the zoning map. However, Evanston Zoning Board of Appeals will deal with the variations rather than the Plan Commission. He said that a variation should not change land use or bulk restrictions. If such changes are requested then the district itself should change. According to State laws any text or map amendment requires a public hearing and can only be held after publication of notice. The notice must be not less than 1.5 days or more than 30 days of the hearing. Not within the State statutes, but in the Evanston ordinance is the requirement that neighbors of any property owner requesting a change in zoning, be notified by mail by the City of Evanston. Upon hearing the request the Plan Commission is required to make a recommendation within 30 days to the City Council. In the case of a combined application for an amendment and a variation or special. use, Mr. Siegel said it was a good idea to include a Joint meeting of the Plan Commission and Zoning Board of Appeals. He said that combined review of the two boards was a good idea in order to get interaction of ideas from both boards and to hear the same information from the applicant. Mr. Siegel defined a special use as one which may have an adverse effect on a district. He defined a planned development as also being called a floating zone which takes a specific site and varies lot area, yards, height and other standards to encourage development of a particular site. A planned development gives variations not related to hardship in return for better development on the property. At this point Mr. Raffensperger asked if all PUDs were combined applications. Mr. Siegel answered that probably most are, but may not always be the case. Mr. Siegel continued by defining unique uses as a use not covered in the ordinance, but one encountered that may be a wanted use. Mr. Siegel then began to discuss public hearings and the Plane Commission's role in these matters. He said that all testimony in a public hearing should be given under oath and the hearing body K should have an adopted set of rules. He said it is difficult to x cut off people when they are presenting their case, but time limitations should be established to avoid any kind of uncontrolled atmosphere. Mr. Siegel also suggested that the meetings be limited Evanston Plan Commission Minutes - May 12, 1993 Page Three to a definite hour if possible or the hearing be continued. He suggested when the presenter is going off the time limits that it may be difficult to cut them off, but to remind them of the time limitations on their speaking. He also suggested that one individual be designated from each organization wishing to make a statement so that testimony is not repetitive. He cautioned the Plan Commission about using its own knowledge about any particular project. He said it is important that the applicant establish the facts and that a record be made and that decisions should be based on the information that is given in their presentation. He said the Evanston Zoning Board of Appeals has a good process and records management. Mr. Siegel said that an attorney from the City will not always be necessary at a hearing, but the Plan Commission may decide if they want one to attend. Ms. Kretchmer asked if it was appropriate for Plan Commission members to visit a site under consideration prior to a hearing. Mr. Siegel suggested the Plan Commission members be as objective as possible when hearing an applicants presentation. Mr. Prout asked how to deal with precedence and cases that may set precedence. Mr. Siegel said that each case should be decided on its own merit. The Plan Commission should not be concerned by precedence setting. There will always be differences between cases that will negate precedence. Mr. Siegel also suggested that the Comprehensive General Plan be followed as closely as possible. Mr. Siegel said if a case is denied and the applicant goes to court, the courts will look to see if the City has a careful plan and a reason for the denial and will look to the Comprehensive General Plan to provide this reasoning. Ms. Kretchmer asked what were the implications of the staff recommendations. Jack Siegel suggested that the staff should provide objective information. Mr. Siegel said there could be legal implications if staff recommendations were not followed by City Council in their final decision. Ms. Anderson stated that cross examination was not included by City Council in the new zoning ordinance. She asked if the Plan Commission should ask the Council to change the ordinance to include them. Mr. Siegel answered no, that the ordinance should not be changed at this time. Mr. Foster thanked Mr. Siegel for his presentation. IV. COMMITTEE REPORTS gppearanoe Review Committee Mr. Raffensperger reported on the Appearance Review Committee status on development of the design guidelines which were included in this evenings packet. He said a local designer had laid out the Evanston Plan Commission Minutes - May 12, 1993 Page Four design guidelines in a brochure format. He said the quality of the images will be better in the final form. He said positive images were used to show examples of what was being requested in the guidelines. However, the Committee did not want to dictate "this is what you should do and this is what you should not do", but wanted the reader of the guidelines to determine what they felt what were good or bad examples. He said the Committee did also not want to point out bad examples by using pictures of existing properties. Mr. Currie suggested that verbiage such as "...photos are used to illustrate these thoughts" should be included in the guidelines so that this idea is carried through and made clear to the reader. Mr. Raffensperger accepted this suggestion and asked if the Plan Commission would want to see another draft of the guidelines before Planning and Development Committee presentation. The Plan Commission members said no, that they thought that the guidelines should go to the Planning and Development Committee with the suggestion made by Mr. Currie. Ad Roc Committee Mr. Raffensperger called the Plan Commission's attention to a copy of a letter that was distributed in the packets for tonight's meeting. The letter was addressed to Mayor Morton and Aldermen and was written by the Ad Hoc Committee as an introduction of the Plan Commission to the new Council. He said he thought this was an appropriate introductory letter to send to the new members prior to their receipt of the Plan Commission's annual. report. Mr. Raffensperger clarified that the reference to the liaison to the City Manager's office was purely at the policy level and at the very early stages of any development being proposed. He said he fully recognized that the liaison between the Plan Commission and the City Manager's office is the Director of Planning and Zoning and that he did not intend to compromise this relationship. It was suggested that the wording be amended to reflect this. A motion to forward the letter, as amended, to City Council was made and passed unanimously. General Comprehensive Pion Committee Mr. Foster reported that the General Comprehensive Committee had been meeting regularly the first Wednesday after each Plan commission meeting to set the agenda for the next Plan Commission meeting and to discuss any other matters that needed attention. He said the General Comprehensive Plan Committee would begin reviewing the latest draft of the Plan Commission rules and procedures for public hearings and for regular meetings. He invited all Plan Commission members to attend the General Comprehensive Plan Committee meetings to discuss the rules and procedures draft. Evanston Plan Commission Minutes - May 12, 1993 Page Three to a definite hour if possible or the hearing be continued. He suggested when the presenter is going off the time limits that it may be difficult to cut them off, but to remind them of the time limitations on their speaking. He also suggested that one individual be designated from each organization wishing to make a statement so that testimony is not repetitive. He cautioned the Plan Commission about using its own knowledge about any particular project. He said it is important that the applicant establish the facts and that a record be made and that decisions should be based on the information that is given in their presentation. He said the Evanston Zoning Board of Appeals has a good process and records management. Mr. Siegel said that an attorney from the City will not always be necessary at a hearing, but the Plan Commission may decide if they want one to attend. Ms. Kretchmer asked if it was appropriate for Plan Commission members to visit a site under consideration prior to a hearing. Mr. Siegel suggested the Plan Commission members be as objective as possible when hearing an applicants presentation. Mr. Prout asked how to deal with precedence and cases that may set precedence. Mr. Siegel said that each case should be decided on its own merit. The Plan Commission should not be concerned by precedence setting. There will always be differences between cases that will negate precedence. Mr. Siegel also suggested that the Comprehensive General Plan be followed as closely as possible. Mr. Siegel said if a case is denied and the applicant goes to court, the courts will look to see if the City has a careful plan and a reason for the denial and will look to the Comprehensive General Plan to provide this reasoning. Ms. Kretchmer asked what were the implications of the staff recommendations. Jack Siegel suggested that the staff should provide objective information. Mr. Siegel said there could be legal implications if staff recommendations were not followed by City Council in their final decision. Ms. Anderson stated that cross examination was not included by City council in the new zoning ordinance. She asked if the Plan Commission should ask the Council to change the ordinance to include them. Mr. Siegel answered no, that the ordinance should not be changed at this time. Mr. Foster thanked ?fir. Siegel for his presentation. IV. COMMITTEE REPORTS Appearance Reviaw Committee Mr. Raffensperger reported on the Appearance Review Committee status on development of the design guidelines which were included in this evenings packet. He said a local designer had laid out the Evanston Plan Commission Minutes - May 12, 1993 Page Five IV. REPORT ON APA CONFERENCE Ms. Kretchmer said that she had attended a session which she thought was particularly useful for Plan Commissioners. The session titled "Land Use Law for Plan Commissioners" was a good overview of the types of issues that the Plan Commission will be addressing through public hearings and review of zoning ordinance text and map amendments. She distributed materials that were collected at this conference session to the rest of the Plan Commissioners. She said she thought that attendance at the APA Conference was generally helpful and informative. Ms. Marston who also attended the APA Conference was not present at the Plan Commission meeting to address her participation at this time. Ms. Borys reported on the Appearance Review Guidelines Workshop that she and Ms. Marston had prepared and held the APA Conference. She said that the workshop was very successful and included not only a tour of both Evanston and Wilmette with regard to design review issues, but also a brief discussion and presentation regarding how appearance review is administered in Evanston and Wilmette and the differences between the two communities. She said that 169 people had registered for the workshop, but there were only 45 seats available and that more people registered for this workshop than any other workshop offered at the APA conference. She said that participants in the workshop were very interested in Evanston's Site Plan Review and Appearance Committee and the role that it plays in the development process. She said that representatives attending the workshop were interested in developing such a process in their own communities. VI. OTHER BUSINESS Mr. Foster introduced Mr. Ron Kobold to the Plan Commission. Mr. Kobold is interested in associate membership and Mr. Foster had requested that Mr. Kobold attend the meeting to see the Plan Commission and get a feel for the type of work and procedures that occur in their meetings. Mr. Foster said that he would be meeting with Mr. Kobold to further discuss the Plan Commission, its activities and Mr. Kobold's prospective involvement in the Plan Commission as an associate member. The meeting a journed at approximately 10:15 p.m. STAFF; DATE CB/mb Plan.min nuWL" , ui uI,I,IjI , Yi IIIiAiiidi6kdkillkiicli�i'i Draft Not Approved EVANSTON PLAN COXKISSION MINUTES Wednesday, June 9, 1993 7:30 p.m. - Room 2403 Civic Center MEMBERS PRESENT: Foster, Norkett, Raffensperger, Prout, Stafford ASSOCIATES PRESENT: Anderson STAFF PRESENT: Borys, Zendell OTHERS PRESENT: Ron Kobold I. MINUTES FROM MAY 12, 1993 Mr. Prout said the minutes should be changed to reflect his attendance at that meeting. With that change, the minutes were adopted. II. COMMUNICATIONS Communications were accepted without comment. III. REVIOF DRAFT 1992 ANNUAL REPORT Dr. Stafford submitted some language clarification changes. Mr. Raffensperger suggested that development proposals be grouped under one section of the report rather than a detailed explanation of each proposal written as a separate section. Ms. Anderson suggested that the Comprehensive General Plan section incorporate some language regarding the new zoning ordinance and that the Plan and the new ordinance be checked for compatibility. A motion was made and approved to adopt the report with these changes. Mr. Foster said the General Comprehensive Plan Committee will incorporate these suggestions into the draft report. A final version of the report will be submitted to the Planning and Development Committee for review at their June 21, 1993 meeting. N' MEMBERS PRESENT: ASSOCIATES PRESENT: STAFF PRESENT: DRAFT - NOT APPROVED EVANSTON PLAN COMMISSION MINUTES Wednesday, July 14, 1993 7:30 P.M. - Room 2403 CIVIC CENTER Foster, Norkett, Stafford, Rielley Raffensperger Anderson Borys, Wolfensperger OTHERS PRESENT: Ron Kobold I. APPROVAL OF MINUTES FROM JUNE 9, 1993 Minutes were approved as written. II. COMMUNICATION Ms. Borys went over the various communications included in the packet material. Among the communications was a letter written by Aid. Steve Engleman, Chairman of the Economic Development Committee regarding future meeting presentations at EDC meetings whereby the Plan Commission would be invited to make a presentation regarding long range planning and a coordinated effort at development From a city wide perspective. Mr. Foster asked Mr. Raffensperger to comment on the letter. Mr. Raffensperger had said that the Ad Hoc Committee had reviewed the letter and suggests that they begin preparing a presentation to be given at an EDC meeting. Mr. Raffensperger said that the EDC members had suggested that the Plan Commission come in August and be one of the first speakers; however, this may be rescheduled for the September or October meeting. Mr. Foster agreed that the Ad Hoc Committee was a good committee to start preparing such a presentation. He also agreed that the original intent of the Ad Hoc Committee was slowly being phased out, but that this was one more issue that the Committee should undertake. Mr. Foster also said that he had been invited to meet with the Chair of the EDC to discuss various issues of Evanston Plan Commission Minutes -- July 14, 1993 Page Two coordination between EDC and the Plan Commission regarding economic development and long range planning. III. COXPRBHBHSIVE QHHERAL PLAN CHAPTER UPDATES The Plan Commission members discussed the four chapters that were included in their materials. These chapters included: Public Transit; Parking; open Space; Parks, and Recreational Facilities; and, Community Utilities. various comments were collected from Plan Commission members regarding additions or corrections to the chapter drafts. It was noted that there was redundancy amongst the information provided for goals 6, 7, & 9 in the Public Transportation Chapter. The Plan Commission members also discussed the possibility of asking CTA for a downtown location where tokens and passes could be purchased. There was concern that there was no downtown location to purchase these items. Staff was also asked to clarify and provide more information regarding the Federal Pass Subsidy legislation referenced in the updated materials. IV. COMMITTEE REPORTS i • 01FRITTE• ��� Dennis Raffensperger reported that the Appearance Review Guidelines Committee had modified their guideline draft according to the suggestions provided by the Planning and Development Committee. He distributed to the Plan Commission members captions for design review guidelines illustrations. These captions will be included beneath the pictures in the guidelines. Mr. Raffensperger asked the Plan Commission to note that the actual location where the picture was taken was noted in the captions so that readers of the guidelines will be able to go to the site to see the actual building depicted in the pictures. He said that in the final draft pictures 5 and 10 would be switched. Mr. Raffensperger went over each of the captions for the twelve pictures in the guidelines. Plan Commission members congratulated the Appearance Review Guidelines Committee on preparing objective guideline illustrations and captions for the pictures. It was felt that these captions would suffice in explaining the pictures more adequately. Mr. Raffensperger said the Committee would begin preparing the final draft which would include these captions for presentation at the Planning and Development Committee in September. Evanston Plan Commission Minutes - July 14, 1993 Page Three C2MRrehenefve General Plan Committee Mr. Foster reported on the Comprehensive General Plan Committee. He said the Committee had been meeting regularly to not only go over agenda items for upcoming Plan Commission meetings, but was busily preparing the last draft of the rules and procedures for the Plan Commission. He said the rules and procedures should be ready for full Plan Commission review at the next meeting in August. He said the Annual Report had been delivered to the Planning and Development Committee and the City Council. He said the response from bath was very good. In Fact, the Planning and Development Committee had requested that more updates from the Plan Commission be provided to them. Mr. Foster said that a map amendment had been applied for. He said that although the Plan Commission historically takes the month of August off as a vacation month, he said the August meeting may have to be scheduled in order to hear this map amendment. He asked Ms. Sorys to summarize the application request. Ms. Sorys said that the application for the map amendment was regarding a property on Central Street. She said that it was only a map amendment and not a text amendment and therefore, would not be as complicated an issue for review by the Plan Commission. She suggested that the Plan Commission meet in August to review this map amendment. Mr. Foster agreed that the Plan Commission should meet in August and suggested that the Plan Commission consider cancelling the September meeting. Mr. Raffensperger asked if the Plan Commission members could get their packets early for the August meeting in order to review the staff report and also the draft rules and procedures that would be prepared by the General Comprehensive Plan Committee. Ad Hoc Committee Mr. Raffensperger said that the Ad Hoc Committee had met, but that the primary role of this Committee was basically completed. Mr. Foster said that he agreed and that after the EDC presentation is prepared, this Committee may no longer be needed in this format. e ahborhood Commercial District Committee Mr. Norkett reported that the Neighborhood Commercial District Committee meeting had not yet met due to conflicting schedules of the members. He said that although not yet an associate member, Mr. Kobold had expressed interest in being a member of this Committee. Plan Commission July 14, 1993 Kr. Raffensperger reported that the EDC Committee had reviewed a draft statement of purpose and inventory of issues for consultant study of the proposed John Buck/Washington National redevelopment proposal. He said that the RFP for review of the proposed economic and market analysis for the redevelopment project would be sent to real estate analyst and companies with real estate experience to provide an objective and experienced view of the feasibility of the proposal as prepared by the John Buck Company. Mr. Foster asked if this was the first time that the City had issued an RFP for consideration of a development proposal. Mr. Raffensperger said that he thought it was, and that this RFP would provide the City and the Economic Development Committee with an objective viewpoint as to the workability of the proposal. He said the Economic Development Committee had also talked about the possibility of reinstating parking along the Green Bay Road Corridor. Parking on Green Bay Road had been removed as part of the reconstruction of Green Bay Road using Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) and Federal Aid Urban (FAU) monies. OTHER BUSINESS Mr. Foster nominated Mr. Ron Kobold for associate membership to the Plan Commission. Members of the Plan Commission unanimously voted for Mr. Kobold as an associate member. With no other business to address, the Plan Commission adjourned at 8:45 p.m. The next meeting of the Plan Commission will be Wednesday, August 11, 1993 at 7:30 p.m. DRAFT, NOT APPROVED EVANSTON PLAN COMMISSION MINUTES Wednesday, August 11 1993 r Room 2403 - 7:30 P.M. EVANSTON CIVIC CENTER MEMBERS PRESENT: Foster, Kretchmer, Marston, Norkett, Prout, Raffensperger, Stafford ASSOCIATE MEMBERS: Anderson, Kobold PRESIDING: Chair, Foster STAFF PRESENT: Wolfensperger I. APPROVAL OF MINUTES FROM JULY 14, 1993 The minutes from the July 14, 1993 meeting were unanimously approved as submitted. II. COMMUNICATIONS The communications were accepted without comment. III. PUBLIC HEARING FOR A ZONING MAP AMENDMENT A verbatim transcript of the public hearing regarding the rezoning of 2734 Central Street from R5 to B2 is on file with the Planning and Zoning QeparLment in Room 3700 of the Evanston Civic Center. IV. REVIEW OF RULES AND PROCEDURES FOR THE PLAN COMMISSION Mr. Foster explained that the Rules and Procedures before the Commission were developed by the Comprehensive General Plan Committee and staff. He emphasized the importance of the Rules, especially as they relate to public hearings. Mr. Foster asked the Commission to comment on the draft Rules and Procedures. The Commission discussed the role of the Chair and voted to a eliminate the provision which stipulates that the Chair shall only vote to break a tie. Ms. Kretchmer asked that the provisions regarding the abstention of a voting member be limited to those members who have a conflict. of Wit; interest. The Commission agreed with Ms. Kretchmer and instructed staff to make the necessary amendments. 1 11 . .1 .I I II 111i I i I I I! it i+ ,I a 111li III ill 14 Ms. Marston stated that a roll call vote should be required for all public hearing items. She continued by saying that it is important for the record that each member vote individually. The Commission agreed with Ms. Marston and asked staff to incorporate this change. The Commission asked staff to clarify that only full members vote. Ms. Anderson suggested that these provisions be left in the membership section but be repeated in the public hearing section so the public understands that associate members do not vote. The Commission agreed. Mr. Foster asked that the revised Rules and Procedures be sent to the Comprehensive General Plan Committee for final review prior to sending them out to the rest of the Commission. The Commission agreed with Mr. Foster. Mr. Raffensperger asked that the Rules and Procedures be scheduled as the first item of business on the October agenda. Ms. Kretchmer suggested that staff highlight the changes in bold. Ms. Anderson asked staff keep the tapes of the all public hearings until the City Council has taken final action. The Committee discussed the length of their meetings and unanimously voted to adopt a policy where by the Commission would not hear any new business after 11:30 P.M. and would not meet past midnight. V. COMMITTEE REPORTS Appearance Review Guidelines Committee Mr. Raffensperger handed out copies of the revised 'Design and Appearance Review Guidelines. He stated that the charges requeste-4 by t e fanning and Development Committee had been incorporated. The Commission unanimously voted to approve the revised Design and Appearance Review Guidelines. Ad Hoc Committee Mr. Raffensperger stated that the Ad Hoc Committee had met tc discuss topics to be included in the Plan Commission's presentaticn to the Economic Development Committee. He handed out a copy of an outline and stated that the Ad Hoc Committee will be meeting on August -31, 1993, to finalize the presentation material. Mr. Raffensperger said that the presentation will probably be made to the Economic Development Committee at their October meeting. 2 0 Mr. Raffensperger informed the Commission that Mr. Norkett will be attending the August meeting of the Economic Development Committee in his place. VI. LIAISON REPORTS Dr. Stafford stated that the Planning and Development Committee had met on August 9th and discussed the Family In Transition Quarterly Report, a variation on Payne Street, a violation on Washington Street, the clean-up of property located on Brown Avenue and a letter of commitment from the Mayor regarding Housing Options for the Mentally Ill in Evanston's single-family rental program. VII. OTHER BUSINESS Dr. Stafford said that he believes the nature of housing in Evanston has changed over the last ten years and suggested increased research into this matter. He continued by saying that he believes the number of single-family homes has decreased in Evanston. Mr. Foster stated that this information would be helpful to the Commission and requested that staff investigate Dr. Stafford's request. The Commission discussed the method for approving public hearing reports and decided that the report would be distributed to the entire Commission and all substantial comments would be transmitted to the Chair within twenty-four hours. The report will then be signed by the Chair and forwarded to the Planning and Development Committee. VIII. ADJOURNMENT The Commission adjourned at 10:10 P. the Plan Commission is scheduled for in Room 2403 of the Evanston Civic. nice Wolfensp(erg6r Zoning Planne 7 / 973 ate 3 M. The next regular meeting of 7:30 P.M. on October 13, 1993, Center. EVANSTON PLAN COMMISSION MINUTES DRAFT, NOT APPROVED Wednesday, September 15, 1993 Room 2403 - 7:15 A.M. EVANSTON CIVIC CENTER MEMBERS PRESENT: Foster, Anderson, Currie, Kobold, Marston, Petterson, Rafffensperger, Rielley, Stafford PRESIDING: Chair, Foster STAFF PRESENT: Wolfensperger I. DECLARATION OF QUORUM A quorum being present, the Chair called the meeting to order at 7:20 A.M. II. COMMUNICATIONS No communications were transmitted. Ill. NEW BUSINESS Mr. Foster stated that every year at this time the Commission is asked by the Housing and Community Development Act Committee to make comments/recommendations on the applications received for Community Development Block Grant monies. He continued by saying that Commission member Currie is on the CD Committee. Mr. Foster stated that he would like to form a sub -committee of the Commission to review the applications and they would in return make recommendations to the full Commission at the October Commission meeting. He suggested that Mr. Currie chair this sub -committee. Members Anderson and Stafford volunteered to join Mr. Currie _n the review of these applications. Mr. Foster said that he would also like to be included in this group. The sub --committee scheduled their first meeting at 8:30 A.M. on October 5, 1993. IV. OLD BUSINESS: Mr. Foster asked the Commission for comments on the revised Rules and Procedures. He stated that he would like the Commission to adopt these Rules prior to the October meeting. 1 u , I , a , 6, „ „ . , i , n . 1 u , � I . i , i „ , u . re , . I , , , , I. 91, Me. Anderson asked that the phrase "in any way" contained in Article VI (J) be clarified. The Commission discussed conflicts of interest and instructed staff to change this section to state that members of the Commission who have a conflict of interest in matters before the Commission refrain from discussion, questioning or voting as a member. T. Stafford stated that a member, as a citizen of Evanston, may participate if they wish to remove them self from the table. Ms. Marston asked that Article XI (J) be clarified to state that the majority of the Commission shall be determined for this purpose as those members present and voting. The Commission agreed with Ms. Marston. Ms. Marston asked that Article XI (M) be changed to state that only new evidence may be presented by the applicant or objector with the Chair's approval. The Commission agreed with Ms. Marston and instructed staff to make the appropriate changes. Ms. Anderson asked that Article XII (B) be clarified to add working days to this section. The Commission and staff agreed to this change. The Commission discussed Article XIII (B) and asked staff to amend this section to state that findings of fact shall be made by the Commission but they do not have to be part of the motion. Staff agreed to make this change. Mr. Rielley made a motion to approve the Rules and Procedures as amended by the Commission. Ms. Marston seconded the motion and the Rules and Procedures were unanimously adopted. V. ADJOURNMENT The Commission adjourned at 7:45 A.M. The next regular meeting of the Plan Commission is scheduled for October 13, 1993 at 7:30 P.M. in the City Council Chambers, Evanston Civic Center. anise Wolfe sp ger oning Pian r F DRAFT, NOT APPROVED EVANSTON PLAN COMMISSION MINUTES Wednesday, October 13, 1993 City Council Chambers - 7:30 P.M. EVANSTON CIVIC CENTER MEMBERS PRESENT: Currie, Foster, Kretchmer, Marston, Norkett, Prout, Raffensperger, Rielley, Stafford ASSOCIATE MEMBERS PRESENT: Anderson, Kobold PRESIDING: Chair, Foster STAFF PRESENT: Wolfensperger I. APPROVAL OF MINUTES FROM AUGUST 11, 1993 AND SEPTEMBER 15, 1993 T. Stafford asked that the minutes of August 11, 1993 be corrected to rtate that he believes the number of detached single-family homes in Evanston has decreased. With this correction, the minutes from the August 11, 1993 and September 15, 1993 meetings were unanimously approved. II. COMMUNICATIONS The Communications were accepted without comment. III. PUBLIC HEARING FOR A ZONING MAP AMENDMENT A verbatim transcript of the public hearing regarding the rezoning of 2120 Greenwood Avenue from I2 to C2 is on file with the Planning and Zoning Department in Room 3700 of the Evanston Civic Center. This item was continued to the November 10, 1993 meeting of the Plan Commission. IV. OTHER BUSINESS J. Currie explained that the Commission's CD Committee had met to discuss the CD applications being reviewed by the Housing and Community Development Act Committee. He handed out a listing of the projects and the level of ranking assigned by the CD Committee. Pg.1 J. Currie explained that questions regarding the specific projects appear in the far right column of the chart. L. Foster expressed concern regarding the requests for monies being used for long term maintenance projects. He stated that Fleetwood Jourdain requests money for maintenance projects year after year. L. Forster suggested that it may have been less expensive for Fleetwood Jourdain to construct a new building. T. Stafford stated that the purpose of CDBG funding should be examined. He stated that many agencies come back year after year for their annual allocation. The Commission agreed that a long term planning approach for appropriations of these funds should be used. J. Currie asked the other Commission members to contact him if they have any other questions or concerns. He stated that the Plan Commission's CD Committee will meet again on November 3, 1993. L. Foster stated that an outline for the Commission's presentation to the Economic Development Committee (EDC) was transmitted in the packet. L. Foster explained that he had worked on this outline with D. Raffensperger and staff. L. Foster asked D. Raffensperger to comment on this presentation. D. Raffensperger stated that the Commission will be meeting with the Economic Development Committee on Wednesday, October 27, 1993. He stated that the proposed outline was designed to cover issues identified by the Commission. The Commission discussed the presentation and L. Foster urged all Commission members to be present at the EDC meeting. T. Stafford reported that the Planning and Development Committee had sent the 2734 Central Street rezoning petition to the full City Council without a recommendation. J. Wolfensperger stated that the City Council had held this item over pending a meeting between the property owner and the neighbors. She stated that an attempt to negotiate a covenant was anticipated. T. Stafford also reported that the City Council is contemplating a reference to the Plan Commission to amend the text of the Zoning Ordinance regarding notification procedures. D. Anderson stated that the City Council had removed the 202 Greenwood subdivision plat from their agenda. Pg . 2 A • r • q:.I�I:,LYy The Commission adjourned at 10:50 P.M. The next regular meeting of the Plan Commission is scheduled for Wednesday, November 10, 1993 at 7:30 P.M. Janice Wolfensperger Zoning Planner Date Pg . 3 ti i DRAFT, NOT APPROVED EVANSTON PLAN COMMISSION MINUTES Wednesday, November 10, 1993 Room 2403 - 7:30 P.M. EVANSTON CIVIC CENTER MEMBERS PRESENT: Currie, Foster, Kretchmer, Norkett, Raffensperger, Rielley, Stafford ASSOCIATE MEMBERS PRESENT: Anderson, Kobold PRESIDING: Chair, Foster STAFF PRESENT: Wolfensperger I. APPROVAL OF MINUTES FROM OCTOBER 13, 1993 T. Stafford stated that the October minutes did not accurately incorporate his comments on the August 11, 1993 minutes. He stated that these minutes should read, "the number of single-family detached and single-family attached homes not in multi -story buildings has decreased in Evanston." With this correction, the minutes from the October 13, 1993 meeting were unanimously approved. II. COMMUNICATIONS The communications were received without comment. III. PUBLIC HEARING The Commission accepted Aldi's request for withdrawal of their application. IV. COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE - PUBLIC BUILDINGS CHAPTER Eric Anderson, City Manager and Max Rubin, Director of Building Operations were present to discuss this chapter with the Commission. Mr. Anderson began by saying that other than the Capital Improvements Plan (CIP), their is no public facilities plan. He stated that Building Operations has a maintenance plan which includes the updating of the City's buildings to meet the new American with Disabilities Act (ADA). 1 Mr. Anderson stated that much of this chapter is out of date. As an example, Mr. Anderson stated that the City does not actively pursue the goal of energy- efficiency. He stated that much of the City's electricity and gas is provided free or at a minimal charge. As another example, Mr. Anderson stated that the new library will be completed in 1994. Mr. Anderson said that the Comprehensive Plan has done well establishing goals but the City has done a poor job obtaining these goals. He stressed that the Plan should be tied to the operating budget. Mr. Anderson stated that often the City's goals exceed the funds available. Mr. Rubin stated that the Plan needs to address ADA and indoor air quality standards. He stated that compliance with the ADA law will cost the City approximately 3 million dollars in improvements. Mr. Rubin said that uniform indoor quality standards have not yet been established but they will in the near future. J. Currie asked if the Comprehensive General Plan can bridge the gap between goals and resources? He asked if a clear statement of maintenance standards would be helpful? Mr. Anderson responded by saying that a clear statement of maintenance expectations would be helpful. He continued by saying that policy statements provide a firm base but tend to be very broad. Mr. Anderson suggested that the policies be more specific and the standards be well articulated. T. Stafford said that at a recent Planning and Development Committee meeting many people spoke about the problem of homelessness. He stated that this is a major issue that will impact the City. T. Stafford asked if this issue should be addressed in the Comprehensive Plan? Mr. Anderson stated that a solution to this problem cannot be found in a public facilities plan. He stated that some private institutions are providing support to the homeless and that the City has no formal policy on this issue. D. Anderson stated that Fleetwood Jourdain has asked year after year for CDBG funds for maintenance projects. she asked why maintenance of this building is not budgeted in the Recreation Department budget. D. Anderson also asked if the City will continue seeking CDBG funds for maintenance projects in the future. Mr. Anderson responded by saying that Fleetwood Jourdain is one of the City' s buildings that clearly is eligible for CDBG funds. He stated that other facilities receive funds through the CIP. Mr. Anderson stated that Fleetwood Jourdain is considered a Recreation Department building. M. Rubin said that progress on the Fleetwood Jourdain building has been made. He stated that all of the major components have been replaced. Mr. Rubin stated that the City has never had a lump sum of money to invest in this building or to start from scratch. J. Currie asked why some projects are sent to the CD Committee and why others are maintained through the operating budget. 2 . , 1 0 1 1 1 . �i itiIi1.N , , . 111 '114II11IVIl � ` I I i I WJIilIill iAi Mr. Anderson explained the budgeting process and the difference between the capital budget and the operating budget. He stated that the projects are prioritized and then the funding source is matched to the request. He stated that those projects that are high on the priority list and are eligible for CDBG funds are then sent to the CD Committee. J. Currie suggested that this budgeting process be explained to the CD Committee. He said that it would be helpful to know why certain projects are sent to the CD Committee. He also said that it would be helpful to know the priority ranking. D. Raffensperger asked if their is any long range plan for the Civic Center. He asked if any planning process is in place for anticipating the future use of the Civic Center. Mr. Anderson stated that there is no planning process established at this point in time. He stated that options are available and the Civic Center will require some major work in the near future. Mr. Rubin said that their is a three to five year work plan for the upgrades of the Civic Center. D. Raffensperger asked if their is an energy policy. Mr. Rubin stated that when parts are replaced the City tries to use energy efficient parts. He stated that because of the City's energy credits through the franchise agreements, their is not much incentive for actively making the City's buildings energy efficient. Mr. Anderson added that the Energy Commission is in the process of developing a City wide energy policy. D. Raffensperger asked if energy standards were used for the Library. Mr. Rubin stated that State standards were used. He stated that energy efficiency was considered. He stated that the new Library will be electric. M. Norkett asked if all of the space in the Civic Center is being used. M. Rubin stated that all floors are used. He continued by explaining that the second floor is rented to various groups. Mr. Norkett suggested that the City may want to consider the future use of the Civic Center. He stated that a new building may be more cost efficient. Mr. Anderson said that with the City's energy agreements, it would be very difficult to justify the cost of a new building. He stated that the Civic Center is very well used. L. Foster asked if any plan has been developed for the relocation of the Levy Center, Mr. Anderson stated that for the time being, the Levy Center will remain. He stated that unless a specific project is planned for this site, the Levy Center will not be relocated. D. Anderson said that the National Health Care Plan may affect the services provided at Levy Center. R. Kobold stated that policy number six is vague and asked if policy number five is being pursued? Mr. Anderson stated that the City is a landlord. He continued by saying that staffing reductions have increased space but much of that space is providing much needed elbow room that is contributing to the efficiency of City services. 3 R. Kobold stated that public facilities should set design standards for the community. Mr. Anderson and Mr. Rubin agreed. Mr. Rubin stated that the new Library will be a prime example. L. Foster asked if their is a planning process to predict how public facilities will be used in the future. Mr. Rubin stated that the Recreation Board tries to predict some of those trends for their facilities. D. Anderson asked Mr. Anderson what items he would like to include in the Comprehensive General Plan. Mr. Anderson said'that he would like a system of standards for building maintenance and property maintenance. He stated that a goal to meet Federal mandates needs to be included as well as Mr. Rubin's comments for indoor air quality. The Commission thanked Mr. Anderson and Mr. Rubin for attending. L. Foster stated that the future of the Civic Center needs to be examined. J. Currie agreed and stated that general planning needs to be encouraged. T. Stafford stated that a "looking toward the future" chapter should be included in the Plan. He stated that the City Council tends to be more reactive to planning issues than proactive. J. Currie said that an executive summary could connect all of the chapters. Review of the Central Business District Chapter The Commission reviewed the draft of this chapter update and determined that it should be more general in nature with regard to specific business names. In addition the Commission directed staff to capture trends in the Downtown. The Commission discussed the outdated information regarding the development of the Zoning Ordinance and the construction of the new Lirirary. The Commission also asked staff to incorporate comments regarding parking, tax increment financing and design principals encouraged in the Downtown Plan and the Zoning Ordinance. V. COMMITTEE REPORTS D. Raffensperger stated that the Plan Commission's presentation to the Economic Development Committee (EDC) was very well received. L. Foster thanked those Commission members who attended that meeting and stated that he believes this attempt at coordination will be fruitful. Jim Currie reported that the CD Committee had made their final recommendations on the allocation of CDBG funds. He handed out copies of these recommendations and noted that with the exception of two applications, the CD Committee recommendations were parallel to the Commission's recommendations. P �I IJ I� , .i ill IYI II He stated that Firemen's Park had received full funding and the Howard Street improvements had been fully funded. J. Currie said that he was convinced that the Howard Street improvements will impact the entire City. y1. OTHER BUSINESS The Commission discussed the need for additional general planners and agreed to have the Comprehensive General Plan Committee draft a letter to the Planning and Development Committee. The Commission asked staff to include a draft of this letter in the Commission's December packet for review. D. Anderson, V. Kretchmer and D. Raffensperger volunteered to be on the Nominating Committee. L. Foster explained that the Nominating Committee will develop a slate of candidates for Chair and Vice - Chair. VII. ADJOURNMENT The Commission adjourned at 9:50 P.M. The next meeting of the Plan Commission is scheduled for December 8, 1993 in Room 2403 ��anrce Wolfe per er Zoning Planner Aln,cpv7,&• 26, 199'3 Date 9 0 . . n DRAFT, NOT APPROVED ' EVANSTON PLAN COMMISSION MINUTES Wednesday, December 6, 1993 Rocan 2404 - Evanston Civic Center 7:30 P-.M. M MERS PRESENT: Currie, Foster, Kretchmer, Norkett, Prout, Raffensperger, Rielley, Staffford ASSOCIATE mmcBERs PRESENT: Anderson, Kobold PRESIDING: Chair, Foster STAFF PRESENT: Wolfensperger I. APPROVAL OF MIN=S FROM NOVEMHER 10, 1993 The Commission unanimously voted to approve the minutes as submitted. II. COMMUNICATIONS The communications were accepted without comment. III. PUBLIC B249Wa A verbatim transcript regarding case ZPC 93-4 (T), an application by Evanston Hospital Corporation for a text amendment to permit child day care centers as a permitted use in the 01 District is on file in the Planning and Zoning Office. Case ZPC 93-3 (T), an application by Richard Shapiro to amend the text of the Zoning ordinance to list car sales as a special use in the C1 District was dismissed for want of prosecution in accordance with the Plan Commission's Rules of Procedure. The applicant was not present for the public hearing. IV. COMMITTEE REPORTS J. Currie reported that the CD Committee had not met since the last Plan Commission meeting and probably would not meet in December. D. Raffensperger reported that the Economic Development Committee (EDC) had not met, but would be meeting with the John Buck Company very soon to discuss the redevelopment of the Washington National site. 1 M. Norkett said that EVMARK is putting together a presentation to be given to small business owners regarding competition in the market place. T. Stafford stated that the Public Place Names Committee had met to consider changing the name of the Chandler Center to The Chandler - Newberger Center. He stated that the Committee is recommending this change to the Planning and Development Committee, even though Mr. Newberger has not been deceased for over five years as their rules require. T. Stafford also reported that he had attended a meeting of the Planning and Development Committee at which the Committee discussed the definition of through lot contained in the Zoning Ordinance. He stated that the Planning and Development Committee was recommending that a reference be made at the City Council to refer this item to the Plan Commission for consideration. J. Wolfensperger explained that at a recent Zoning Board of Appeals meeting, the definition of through lot was discussed as it related to a fence case. She stated that this reference had been made by the City Council and would be scheduled for an upcoming meeting. V. ELECTION OF CHAIR AND VICE -CHAIR FOR 1994 L. Foster stated that the Nominating Committee had met to develop a slate of candidates for chair and vice -chair. He stated that the Committee is recommending Kevin Rielley for chair and D. Raffensperger for the position of vice -chair. V. Kretchmer motioned to elect K. Rielley as chair. The motion was seconded by T. Stafford and was unanimously approved by the Commission. V. Kretchmer motioned to elect D. Raffensperger as vice -chair and J. Currie seconded the motion. The motion was unanimously approved. VI. OTHER BUSINESS L. Foster handed out a draft letter which he and J. Currie drafted to the Planning and Development Committee concerning staffing of the Planning Department and the need for long range planning. L. Foster asked the Commission to pass along any comments they may have on the correspondence to staff. L. -roster thanked Dr. Stafford fcr the vision statement he drafted for the Comare::ensive General Plan. Dr. Staffc_d asked :he Commission to review the statement a::d suggested that :he Commission discuss this at a later date. . e Commission agreed. VII. ADJOURNIRNT The Commission adjourned at 9:40 P.M. The next meeting of the Plan Commission is scheduled for January 12, 1994, at 7:30 P.M., in Room 2403 of the Evanston Civic Center. ►q m rn . _1L_: i.' , .