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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes 11/28/2001 o ~ l~~ I. II. III. IV. . v. VI. VII. VIII. . F. [~OR~~~.... NI --G." rE:-lLEl-IS. I II. rm I~HL'_ .....~.......,. -", ---.... WAS H I N G TON, U. S. A. DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT AGENDA PLANNING COMMISSION 321 East Fifth Street November 28, 2001 CALL TO ORDER 7 p.m. ROLL CALL APPROVAL OF MINUTES: Meeting of November 14,2001. WORK SESSION: Discussion of Comprehensive Plan 2002 review process and timetable COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE PUBLIC ST AFF REPORTS REPORTS OF COMMISSION MEMBERS ADJOURNMENT PLANNING COMMISSIONERS: Linda Nutter (Chair), Chuck Schramm (Vice), Fred Hewins, Fred Norton, Bob Philpott, Mary Craver, Rick Porter PLANNING 8T AFF: Brad Collins,Director; Sue Roberds, Planning Specialist. . . . MINUTES PLANNING COMMISSION Port Angeles, Washington 98362 November 28, 2001 7:00 p.m. ROLL CALL Members Present Bob Philpott, Fred Norton, Fred Hewins, Linda Nutter, Mary Craver, Chuck Schramm Members Excused: Rick Porter Staff Present Brad Collins, Glenn Cutler, Tim Smith Public Present: Leonard Beil, Susan Bauer, Aria Holzchuh, Mike Gentry, Dean Reed, Tony Griffith, James Stevens, Kevin Thompson, Roy Gotham, Jack Glaubert, Jerry Austin, Allan Bentley, Paul Perlwitz, Eileen Knight APPROVAL OF MINUTES Commissioner Philpott moved to approve the November 14, 2001, minutes with a correction on page 1, adding the word "Roberds" to the last paragraph, second sentence. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Hewins, and passed unanimously. WORK SESSION: Discussion of Comprehensive Plan 2002 review process and timetable Director Collins welcomed those present and stated that the City is beginning review of the Comprehensive Plan as mandated by the State of Washington as a result ofthe Growth Management Act legislation. Letters were sent out to business and property owners in the Downtown asking them if they wish to participate in that review which will have a specific focus on the Harbor (and Downtown) Planning Area. He explained the general public meetinglhearing process, and that the entire review process should take approximately seven months. After explaining how the goals or policies of the Comprehensive Plan may need to be updated or changed due primarily to consideration of deficiencies or priorities that develop because of policies or functions that the City has. He introduced Glenn Cutler, City Public Works and Utilities Director, who would elaborate on projects that have been identified for update or new projects that have resulted from the past few years of activity. Glemt Cutler, City Public Works and Utilities Director, began a discussion of the City's Capital Facilities Plan, how it is developed, and about projects that are planned for the year 2002 to 2005. The Capital Facilities Plan is broken down into two pieces: projects associated with general . . . Planning Commission Minutes November 18,1001 Page 1 fund projects, which include transportation-related projects, sidewalks, non-motorized, roads, bridges, and non-utility facility projects; and utility projects such as water, sewer, electric, and solid waste. Projects are developed based on deficiencies as well as future needs, and those requirements to meet public expectations as well as planning for growth. Projects are basically started at staff level within the Public Works and Utilities Department based upon policy or other issues that have come up, they are discussed internally with other City staff, and a plan is formulated to present to the public and City Council. Following a public hearing process, the plans are set. Various sources of funding are used, utility and general funds which are derived from property taxes, grants, and gas tax funds. Maintenance of roadways are very important. The City has determined that when overlays are done, sidewalk improvements should be made in the same areas when possible. He then briefly itemized some of the 2002 projects that are planned including replacement of the 8th Street bridges. Chair Nutter thanked Director Cutler for his time. Chair Nutter noted several possible items of discussion for future City developments and projects: Rayonier mill site, conference center, International Gateway Plaza, waterfront trail and Downtown streets cape improvements, Daishowa chip facility reuse, Port marine terminal improvements, marina development, Lower Elwha Klallam Tribal center, William R. Fairchild International Airport, Port Angeles landfill, Ennis Creek Estates property development, capital facilities plan, updating the Port Angeles Harbor Resource Management Plan, updating the Downtown Forward plan, looking at development design review guidelines for the Downtown, series of major road improvements that are part of the future plans for the City, new Downtown building projects from private proposals, expansion of commercial areas either within the Harbor Downtown planning area or other planning areas, and Downtown parking. Director Collins noted that the list was not meant to be exhaustive but rather was meant to start people thinking of future planning proj ects. Chair Nutter asked if there was anyone in the audience who would like to speak. Dean Reed, DaiS/IOwa America, 1902 Marine Drive, stated that Daishowa is closing the chipping facility. Twenty-eight acres of the chipping facility site was leased from the Port of Port Angeles. The eastern 19 acres ofthe site is owned by Daishowa and contains facilities to unload barges, a truck scale, an export area, and a warehouse. Daishowa no longer has a purpose for that facility. The facility could be sold in its entirety or parceled out, however, there is no game plan in mind at this time. It would suit the long term interests ofthe paper making operation if there was some chip handling going on at that property. In response to Commissioner Craver, Mr. Reed answered that he is not aware of any significant contamination or large clean-up that is needed or proposed. Susan Bauer, Port of Port Angeles, 351 West First Street, provided an overview for plans for improvement to the Port's marine terminal. A waterfront development plan is in place that includes several options for improving the marine terminal. One of the items proposed is development of a marine trades area adjacent to Terminal No.3. Options are being explored to add to Terminal No.3 facility to allow work pn larger tankers. Different options are being explored as well as developing the marine trades area into what is the existing log yard. In response to Chair Nutter, Ms. Bauer stated that the term "marine trades" is work that is being done on pleasure craft and commercial craft that exceeds 65'. There has been quite a bit of interest from different companies that work on larger vessels who would like to locate in this area. The Port is working on permits to start development of a marine trades use at the location. In response to Commissioner Norton, Ms. Bauer concurred that the Port does not have a dry . . . Planning Commission Minutes November 28. 2001 Page 3 dock at present but the acquisition of a dry dock is being explored. In response to Commissioner Schramm, Ms. Bauer answered that relocation of the log storage use presently located in the proposed marine trades area is being considered for relocation to the previous M & R timber dock and log storage area being vacated by Daishowa America. Port Commissioner Leonard BeN, 2137 Park Knoll, noted that one of the real challenges for the Port of Port Angeles is what's going to happen with the old M & R timber dock area that is now being vacated by the Daishowa America chipping operation. The decisions that are going to be made in the next two years will really determine what's going to happen on the waterfront for the next 25 - 30 years. The results of some studies done for the handling of logs at the old M & R pier site is prohibitive at $4 million to $8 million. The Port is going to need a lot of input from the public on this issue. Log storage takes about 15 acres, so there would be approximately 15 acres remaining in the near 30 acre site that could be used for another use. Whatever happens on the property is important to the entire community. He expressed support of the Planning Commission's interest, on behalf ofthe community, of the property development. In response to Commissioner Craver, Commissioner Beil stated that Daishowa owns property between Port properties along the waterfront, but so far has not appeared to be interested in selling or swapping property with the Port to enable contiguous ownerships. Tony Griffith, 111 East Second Street. asked if it is known ifRayonier is actually interested in selling its property. There was no one to answer this question. Chair Nutter asked if anyone had information or comments about Airport hangar development? Commissioner Leonard Beil, Port of Port Angeles, stated that the Port has been concerned for a number of years about the lack of hangars for people on a waiting list who would like to have hangars. Up until about a year ago there wasn't really any room for hangars to be developed. About a year ago, an extensive water control project was constructed in an approximately 20-acre previous log storage area. Infrastructure was placed for two base pads for hangars which could accommodate 20 to 22 planes. The Port does not have funding to construct the hangars at this time and it is hoped that private investors will fund the work. He briefly explained other developments at the Airport. In response to Chair Nutter, Commissioner Beil responded that there has been discussion with the Airport Advisory Committee to develop a small camping area to accommodate people who fly private planes and who wish to camp overnight. It is his hope that such a service could be developed by the public without the use of public funds. James Stevens, P.O. Box 231, Sequim, Washington, was concerned about drug use in the City and urged those with money to just build their projects. Commissioner Bell added that the 113-acres of property the Port purchased a few years ago is about 30% wetlands, ponds, riparian areas. Dry Creek runs through the property. Studies indicate that the development of that property for industrial use would run in the area of $8 million. In the next few months, the community will have an opportunity to decide whether a portion of the property could potentially be developed into a golf course. Wetland areas are considered quite adaptable to golf course development with the remainder used for other industrial uses. Commissioner Hewins noted that it seems that the Port owns the majority of industrial property in Port Angeles. He expressed concern that there is not a sufficient amount of land available for private development as the Port owns most of the industrial zoned property in Port Angeles. Commissioner Beil is not personally in favor of the Port purchasing additional properties that are not needed for (port) development of contiguous properties. The Port currently requires that . . . Planning Commission Minutes November 28. 2001 Page 4 all interest be returned to the Port when a developer vacates a leased property that has been developed privately. In response to Commissioner Schramm, Commissioner Beil noted that there are private companies that are in the business of developing golf courses around airports. He hoped that the community would be hearing more about that in the near future. Hopefully the Port would be working with private finns that would he interested in developing such a facility that could enhance the economic status ofthe entire community. The Commission took a five minute break. The meeting resumed at 8:35 p.m. In response to a question, Director Collins indicated that the City has been working with real estate professionals to market the Ennis Creek Estates property on Del Guzzi Drive. To date, the City is considering development of individual lots as well as a proposal from a group interested in developing a performing arts center on the site. Tim Smith, City of Port Angeles Economic Development Director, noted that the City of Port Angeles Lodging Tax Advisory Committee will be considering infonnation from the perfonning arts proponents for the property. That group may be focusing on an alternate project site. Mike Gelltry, 923 East Tenth Street, noted that cities that develop interesting park systems are those cities that provide pleasant memories for its citizens and visitors. Public/private partnerships enable more to happen than do individual developments. One of the most positive things going for Port Angeles is the waterfront development that is taking place. Trail links throughout the City are valuable amenities that are underutilized at this time. Ennis Creek along the Ennis Creek Estates site, going down to the Rayonier Mill site, could draw the waterfront area into this development and continue trail ways throughout town. The City should not hesitate to dedicate public funds to encouraging such projects. Tim Smith commented on the planning process with regard to the proposed Gateway Project in the Port Angeles Downtown. Aria Holzcltult, 1051/2 East First Street, agreed that approximately $5 million of public money and approximately $10 million of private monies have been invested in the past four years in the Downtown. Most of the visions that the Downtown Forward Committee has been realized with the exception of a convention center, the Gateway conferencing center, and a consolidated parking center. New infrastructure has been placed and there is a 99% occupancy rate in Downtown Port Angeles. In response to Commissioner Schramm, Tim Smith indicated that other uses than a convention center have been looked at for the Downtown. It would be a great idea to provide a recreational use where people could go regardless of the weather such as an indoor sports center, skating rink, etc., but nothing has been proposed at this time. Eileen KIligllt, 672 Strait View Drive, is a property owner in the Port Angeles Downtown. She introduced the thought that the Waterfront Trail might be made into a two lane roadway from the old Rayonier mill site to the Downtown in order to open up the waterfront area. Commissioner Nutter asked ArIa Holzchuh, Executive Director of the Port Angeles Downtown Association (P ADA), if the Downtown is looking at the possibility of providing amenities for the bicycle traveler where a bicycle can be stored along with packages and places for people to sit and rest. Aria Holzchuh answered that the PADA has provided building owners with materials on design guidelines. The Association is not telling people what they should do with their buildings, but are encouraging easier and more productive ways to provide enhanced streetscape amenities . . . Planning Commission Minutes November 28.200/ Page 5 which includes things like bicycle racks. Lockers have been discussed in the proposed Gateway project. Aria Holzchuh commented that infill desired for future development of the Downtown will generate the need to develop a centralized parking structure at some point in the future. In response to Commissioner Hewins, Ms. Holzchuh commented that Mainstreet parking structures do not typically look like standard concrete parking structures but typically pull the architectural design from areas that surround it and blend in with the look of the area. Typically they have commercial frontages with parking areas built into the rear and terraced in height. The result is more of a mixed use complex. Several likely sites were discussed for a future parking structure. Amenities such as pocket parks, benches, continuous awnings, enhanced walkways, were discussed to create a Downtown that people want to return to Leonard Bei/, commented that the Oak Street property carries a high price tag which is likely to price it out ofthe parking structure or park market. The Port would need to return its investment in the property. There is a group working on public access from the waterfront up to the Black Diamond area through Valley Creek which would eventually result in access from the waterfront area to the Heart of the Hills area. Mike Gentry, asked if the Peabody Creek area behind the Carnegie Library has ever been considered for a parking structure? Director Collins did not believe a parking structure had ever been given consideration in that area; however, a park may have been. Tim Smith noted that he had heard an interest expressed in developing controlled landscaping for the high banks at the south of the Downtown as well as some creative painting for alley frontages. Mike Gentry stated that the YMCA's Teen Scene, which is located in the Downtown, is considered a success as a place where teens can congregate. The YMCA may be interested in purchasing the leased building in the future, and it may be a good idea to look at a public partnership project to either move the building or enlarging and formalizing the use for youth. Tony Griffith, 111 East Second Street, encouraged advertising and signage to inform people of the amenities of the National Park locations surrounding Port Angeles. Many of his hotel customers have no idea what the Olympic National Park is or its proximity to Port Angeles. He is always amazed that so many people have no idea of the offerings of the Park. Advertising is sadly lacking and could be significantly beefed up. Director Collins thanked those in attendance for taking time to provide their comments and express their visions. There will be many more opportunities to provide input. Karen Rogers, 1320 West EleveJJth Street, suggested that one thing that people really need is visual stimulation on paper. She encouraged that drawings and renditions of some of these future visions be done. Vicki Rudin, 1002 Strait View Drive, asked if the plans that are being reviewed (Comprehensive Plan) are readily available. Director Collins responded that all of the information is readily accessible at the Library and at City Hall. Eileen Knight added that she has always hoped that the entryway to the City could be enhanced as being more representative of the Community's spirit and more welcoming to the traveler. She noted that the City of Sequim is considering an ordinance requiring business owners to maintain their properties such that the entryway to the City is welcoming. This legislation may include fines for those who do not comply. Commissioner Norton stated that most small, successful, tourist areas retain a theme Planning Commission Minutes November 28. 2001 Page 6 . throughout the community. Aria Holzeltull attended meetings some 18 years ago regarding Mainstreet issues dealing with themes for communities. The main thought for theme cities nowadays is Bavarian. Themes work, but not often. Theme cities only work when the entire community works toward the theme. The theme that is being worked around the Downtown area of Port Angeles is to get rid ofthe false facades and go back to the historic look that is Port Angeles. Commissioner Nutter was more concerned about a theme for new buildings. We may need to encourage a theme for new buildings that represents the City's historic values. Victoria is not a theme - it's British. Port Angeles was historically built in wood, then brick, then concrete, then a mix of materials. A theme for Port Angeles needs to represent who, what, or where Port Angeles is. It means historic. There are many historic buildings in Port Angeles, such as the Wengler Building, that are near original including original storefronts. Mike Gentry agreed with the previous speaker but stressed that designers be allowed space to interpret the historical in a modem way. In response to Commissioner Philpott, Tim Smith and Aria Holzchuh stated that property ownerships in the Downtown have changed somewhat such that more local property owners are involved than in the past. COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE PUBLIC . None. STAFF REPORTS Director Collins noted that the Public Works Department reported that the pedestrian hit at Front and Francis Streets walked in front of a vehicle on Francis Street that was turning west onto Front Street. The pedestrian was not walking across Front Street (north/south). He added that the Parks Department reported that the Waterfront Trail is now accessible for the trail portion only - not the new park area. In response to Commissioner Schramm regarding the old Aggie's building, Director Collins did not know why the building is in foreclosure. The parking variance would be transferrable to an owner who proposed the same use for which the variance was approved. REPORTS OF COMMISSION MEMBERS . Commissioner Norton wished to pass along thanks to Marc Connelly, Parks and Recreation Director, for his phone call providing an update as to why the Francis Street Park at the Waterfront Trail is still not open. The Commissioners wished to thank the public present for their attendance and participation and hoped that they would continue to assist in the review of the City's Comprehensive Plan. Commissioner Nutter asked for a status on the City's request to move the eastern UGA line to the Deer Park area. Director Collins noted that the County had promised to act on the issue by July, 2001, but has not done so and apparently won't until the issue of annexation of the eastern UGA is finalized. . . . Planning Commission Minutes NOI'ember 28, 200/ Page 7 ADJOURNMENT The meeting adjourned at 9: 15 p.m. '~~ Brad Collins, Secretary ~b11ilk ~ Li da Nutter, Cha r PREPARED BY: S, Roberds · FORTANGELES WAS H f N G TON. U. S. A. . PLANNING COMMISSION ATIENDANCE ROSTER AND TESTIMONY SIGN-UP SHEET N Meeting Agenda of: ~o< ~ dOO J PLEASE NOTE: IE. you plan to testify, by signature below, you certify that the testimony given is true and correct under penalty of perjury by the laws of the State of Washington. Si nature below DOES NOT REQUIRE ou to testi - it 0 acknowled es our resence. NAME: Agenda Item No. . George SChoenfeldt 672 BUChanan Dr Port Angeles WA 98362-8148 \ 2.: <:". 10<( $. q 'S1 /frV2- c:SM{~ 0w d- d--;l. tv' L1::Jv~~W \3LCl~-\\.lc~).+- f>A- (1..0 '2. S Pe fA q1.-1, ~. IctrU P4:-. < \ 0 h I I wlUItk" f-f1- .-- '. . . · ~ORTANGELES WAS H I N G TON. U. S. A. PLANNING COMMISSION ATTENDANCE ROSTER AND TESTIMONY SIGN-UP SHEET N Meeting Agenda of: 1\ /2/tIOI I PLEASE NOTE: IE you plan to testify, by signature below, you certify that the testimony given is true and correct under penalty of perjury by the laws of the State of Washington. Signature below DOES NaF REQUIRE YOU to testilY - it only acknowled1!es your presence. NAME: ADDRESS: Agenda Item No. kfc.k /J. h/ekfiR ~a&k :2<fr?2 /?71. 'D(;\J{ r=-, ~)~\~;-\-~ J,~(p O\~ Q~"I~''i\~t..I~ I PA J e () <f'l Cv- L r It( 1) et J 3 J L/'-- /~~!( /[<._~J t' '? /I.