HomeMy WebLinkAbout08042009 Planning & Zoning PacketSeward Planning Commission
Agenda Packet
August 4, 2009
Regular Meeting
City Council Chambers Beginning at 7:30 pm
Seward Planning ~ Zoning Commission
Regular Meetin
ugust p. m. ity ounci um ers
Sandie Roach'
Chair
Term E.rpires 02/10
Sue McClure
Vice Chair
Term Expires OZ/10
Vacant
Commissioner
Terra E.apires 02/12
Tena Moagurr
Commissioner
Term E.zpir•es 02/10
Steven Heinrich
Commissioner
Term Expires OZ/JI
C{n~istina Staffer
Commissioner
Term Expires 02/12
Cinch Ecklund
Commissioner
Term Expires 02/11
Phillip Oates
City Manager
Christy Terry
Community Dc~~elopment
Director
Su°i Totivslev
Executive Liaison
1. Call to Order
2. Opening Ceremony
A. Pledge of Allegiance
3. Roll Call
4. Special Reports & Presentations
A. City Administration Report
B. Other Reports, Announcements & Presentations
5. Citizens' Comments on any subject except those items
scheduled for public hearing. ~Thase who have signed in
will he given the first opportunity to speak. Time is limited
to 2 minz{tes per speaker and 30 minutes total time_for this
agenda item)
6. Approval of Agenda and Consent Agenda. [Approval of
COn.SG'nl Agenda pusses all routine items indicated by
asterisk (*). Consent Agenda items are not considered
separately unless a Commissioner so requests. In the event
of such u request, the item is returned to the Regular
Agenda. J
Planning and Zoning Commission Regular Meeting Agenda
August 4, 2009 Puge 1
7. Public Hearings [Limit comments to 5 minutes. Those who have signed in will be given
the, first opportunity to speak)
A. Unfinished Business Items requiring a Public Hearing -None
B. New Business Items requiring a Public Hearing-
1. Resolution 2009-20 of the Seward Planning and Zoning Commission of the
City of Seward, Alaska, Recommending City Council Approval of the Rezoning
of Lots 25 and 26A, Block 12, Original Townsite of Seward From Single Family
Residential (Rl) to Urban Residential (UR) Located on the West Side of Brownell
Street and North of Washington Street at 208 and 210 Brownell Street...... Page 3
8. Unfinished Business -None
9. New Business -
* A. July 7, 2009 Regular Meeting Minutes ...................................................... Page 11
B. Set Work Session Topic for August 18, 2009 ........................................... Page 18
10. Informational Items and Reports (No action reyuired)-
A. National Flood Insurance Program/Community Rating System Newsletter June
2009 Edition ............................................................................................ Page 20
B. Draft Federal Executive Order to Curb Floodplain Development Informational
article attached. ........................................................................................ Page 25
11. Commission Comments
12. Cltlzeris~ Comments [Limit to 5 miru~tes per individual -Each individiru! has one opportunity to speatiJ
13. Commissions and Administration Response to Citizens' Comments
14. Adjournment
Planning and Zoning Commission Regular Meeting Agenda
August 4, 2009 Puge 2
Sponsored by: Applicant
CITY OF SEWARD, ALASKA
PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION
RESOLUTION 2009-20
A RESOLUTION OF THE SEWARD PLANNING AND ZONING
COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF SEWARD, ALASKA,
RECOMMENDING CITY COUNCIL APPROVAL OF THE REZONING
OF LOTS 25 AND 26A, BLOCK 12, ORIGINAL TOWNSITE OF SEWARD
FROM SINGLE FAMILY RESIDENTIAL (Rl) TO URBAN
RESIDENTIAL (UR) LOCATED ON THE WEST SIDE OF BROWNELL
STREET AND NORTH OF WASHINGTON STREET AT 208 AND 210
BROWNELL STREET
WHEREAS, applicants Sven and Barbara Ebbesson have submitted an application and
the filing fee, requesting Lot 26A, Block 12, Original Townsite of Seward, be rezoned from
Single Family Residential (R1) to Urban Residential (UR); and
WHEREAS, the separately owned single 3,000 square foot Lot 25, adjacent to the south
has also been included in this rezone, the owner was notified by Certified Mail and no objections
were received; and
WHEREAS, the current Zoning of the two parcels is Single Family Residential (Rl) and
the current Land Use Plan map designation recommends the parcels be rezoned to urban
Residential (UR); and
WHEREAS, Lot 26A, was replated in April 1988 and contains approximately 8,400
square feet and Lot 25, is an originally platted lot 30 X 100 feet, totaling approximately 3,000
square feet; and
WHEREAS, the Seward City Code SCC §15.01.035, Amendments, (b) (3) allows the
consideration of this rezone because the land is contiguous to the requested zoning district and is
recommended by the Land Use Plan Map; and
WHEREAS, a goal of the Seward Comprehensive Plan is to bring the Zoning Map into
conformance with the Land Use Plan; and
WHEREAS, the public notification process was complied with and the appropriate
public hearing as required by Seward City Code § 15.01.040 was conducted by the Commission
on August 4, 2009.
Seward Planning and Zoning
Resolution 2009-20
Page 2
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Seward Planning and Zoning
Commission that:
Section 1. The Seward Planning and Zoning Commission supports the proposed Zoning
change of Lots 25 and 26A, Block 12, Original Townsite of Seward, from Single Family
Residential (R1) to Urban Residential (UR); and recommends that Ordinance 2009-XXX be
forwarded to City Council for approval.
Section 2. This resolution shall take effect immediately upon its adoption.
PASSED AND APPROVED by the Seward Planning and Zoning Commission this 4`" day of
August 2009.
THE CITY OF SEWARD, ALASKA
Sandie Roach', Chair
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
VACANT: One
ATTEST:
Jean Lewis, CMC
City Clerk
(City Seal)
P&Z Agenda Statement
Meeting Date: August 4, 2009
Through: Christy Terry, Community Development Director
From: Donna Glenz, Associate Planner ~O~K~
J
Agenda Item: Amending the Zoning Map by rezoning Lots 25
and 26A, Block 12, Original Townsite of Seward from
Single Family Residential (R1) to Urban Residential (UR)
BACKGROUND & JUSTIFICATION:
Attached for the Commission's review and recommendation to the Seward City Council
is Resolution 2009-20 recommending City Council approval of the attached Ordinance
2009-XXX, amending the Zoning Map by rezoning Lots 25 and 26A, Block 12, Original
Townsite of Seward, from Single Family (R1) to Urban Residential (UR) (see attached
maps).
The applicant is requesting this rezone in order to provide land suitable for possible
future development uses as allowed within the Urban Residential District and to bring the
lots into conformance with the Land Use Plan.
Lot 26A, Block 12 was replated in April 1988 and contains approximately 8,400 square
feet and Lot 25, is an originally platted lot 30 X 100 feet, totaling approximately 3,000
square feet. The current use on Lots 25 and 26A, Block 12, OTS is single family homes.
These structures are very small, older non-conforming single family structures.
These two (2) lots are currently zoned Single Family Residential (R1). The parcels to the
East are privately owned and in general single-family homes within the Single Family
Zoning District (R1). The parcel to the North contains the multi-family structures of
Bear Mountain Apartments and is within the Urban Residential Zoning District (UR).
The large parcel to the South is privately owned and currently undeveloped also within
the Urban Residential Zoning District (UR). The large parcel to the West is owned by
the City, within the Resource Management (RM) Zoning District and currently
undeveloped.
Seward City Code SCC § 15.01.035, Amendments, (b) (3) allows the consideration of this
rezone because the land is contiguous to the requested Urban Residential Zoning District
in both the North and South and is recommended by the Land Use Plan Map.
The requested zoning change of the area for rezone is Urban Residential (UR) defined in.
The Land Use Map, as adopted by the 2020 Comprehensive Plan, designates the area
requested for rezone as Urban Residential (UR) defined in SCC 15.05.025 (b)( (5) Urban
residential district (UR). Intended to allow an area of higher density mixed residential
uses from detached single family housing to multi-family apartments in conjunction with
compatible low impact professional office uses in the area surrounding the downtown
business district.
CONSISTENCY CHECKLIST YES NO N/A
1. Comprehensive Plan X2020) X w
Land Development
"We value orderly growth and balanced development that is driven by community
consensus in conformance with the land use plan." (page 14)
3.2.2.1 (bullet 4) Update the zoning code in order to implement the Comprehensive
Plan and bring the zoning map into conformance with the Land Use Plan.
2. Land Use Plan (2020 Comp Plant X
Lots 25 and 26A, Block 12, Original Townsite of Seward to change from Single
Family (R1) to Urban Residential (UR).
3. Strategic Plan (1999 X
The Strategic Plan supports the implementation of the Comprehensive Plan and
encourages bringing the Zoning Map into conformance with the Land Use Plan.
No objections or concerns were expressed from City staff other than when future
development happens in this area, the 20 foot alley access limitations will need to be
addressed.
As required by the City Code, neighboring property owners within 300 feet of the area
subject to review were notified of the proposed rezone. Staff has received no objections
to the rezone at the time of this review.
RECOMMENDATION:
Commission approve Resolution 2009-20, recommending City Council approval of the
attached Ordinance 2009-x:XX, Rezoning Lots 25 and 26A, Block 12, Original Townsite
of Seward from Single Family (RI) to Urban Residential (UR).
Sponsored by: Plannine and Zonine Commission
Introduction Date: August 24, 2009
Public Hearing Date: September 14, 2009
Enactment Date: September l4, 2009
CITY OF SEWARD, ALASKA
ORDINANCE 2009-XXX
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
SEWARD, ALASKA, AMENDING CITY ZONING MAP BY
REZONING LOTS 25 AND 26A, BLOCK 12, ORIGINAL
TOWNSITE OF SEWARD FROM SINGLE FAMILY
RESIDENTIAL (Rl) TO URBAN RESIDENTIAL (UR) LOCATED
ON THE WEST SIDE OF BROWNELL STREET AND NORTH OF
WASHINGTON STREET AT 208 AND 210 BROWNELL STREET
WHEREAS, applicants Sven and Barbara Ebbesson have submitted an
application and the filing fee, requesting Lot 26A, Block 12, Original Townsite of
Seward, be rezonedfrom Single Family Residential (R1) to Urban Residential (UR); and
WHEREAS, the separately owned single 3,000 square foot Lot 25, adjacent to
the south has also been included in this rezone; and
WHEREAS, the current Zoning of the two parcels is Single Family Residential
(R1) and the current Land Use Plan map designation recommends the parcels be rezoned
to Urban Residential (UR); and
WHEREAS, Lot 26A, was replated in April 1988 and contains approximately
8,400 square feet and Lot 25, is an originally platted lot 30 X 100 feet, totaling
approximately 3,000 square feet; and
WHEREAS, the Seward City Code SCC § 15.01.035, Amendments, (b) (3)
allows the consideration of this rezone because the land is contiguous to the requested
zoning district and is recommended by the Land Use Plan Map; and
WHEREAS, a goal of the Seward Comprehensive Plan is to bring the Zoning
Map into conformance with the Land Use Plan; and
WHEREAS, the official Zoning Map described in SCC 15.01.030 will be
amended from Single Family Residential (R1) to Urban Residential (UR) as
recommended on the official Land Use Plan map; and
City of Seward
Ordinance No. 2009-XXX
Page 2
WHEREAS, the Planning & Zoning Commission has complied with public
notice and public hearing procedures for amending zoning and land use district
designations, as required by Title 15; and
WHEREAS, at the August 4, 2009 meeting, the Planning and Zoning
Commission reviewed the application, held a public hearing and recommended City
Council approval of the proposed zoning amendment included in this ordinance.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF
THE CITY OF SEWARD, ALASKA that:
Section 1. The official Zoning Map of the City is hereby amended to change the
zoning designation of Lots 25 and 26A, Block 12, Original Townsite of Seward from
Single Family Residential (R1) to Urban Residential (UR) (as displayed in attached
document)
Section 2. This ordinance shall take effect ten (10) days following enactment.
ENACTED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SEWARD, ALASKA,
THIS 14~h DAY OF SEPTEMBER 2009.
THE CITY OF SEWARD, ALASKA
Clark Corbridge, Mayor
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
ATTEST:
Jean Lewis, CMC
City Clerk
(City Seal)
~...~~
G.. ~~,
Rezone Application
Public Hearing
0 70 140 Feet
I i I
Current Zoning Map
N P & Z Resolution 2009-20
Drawn by: DGlenz
apping Assistance
Alaska Map Co. Date: $/4/2UU9
ADAMS STREET
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0
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0
U
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Lot 26A, Blk 12
Original Townsite Seward
Lot 25, Blk 12
Original Townsite Seward
Urban Residential
~ u
WASHINGTON STREET
j Institutional
Current Land Use Map
N P & Z Resolution 2009-20
Checked by:
apping Assistance
Alaska Map Co. Date: Ju~y ~4, 209
City of Seward, Alaska Planning Commission Minutes
July 7, 2009 Volume 6 Page 2 3 6
Call to Order
The July 7, 2009 Regular Meeting of the Seward Planning & Zoning Commission was
called to order at 7:30 p.m. by Chair Roach'.
Opening Ceremony
Commissioner McClure led the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag.
Roll Call
There were present: Sandie Roach' presiding, and
Christina Stauffer Tena Morgan Cindy Ecklund
Sue McClure
comprising a quorum of the Commission; and
Christy Terry, Community Development Director
Anne Bailey, Executive Liaison
Excused was: Steven Heinrich
City Administration Report
Community Development Director Christy Terry updated the Commission of the
following business items:
• Community Development had worked on enforcement with flood plain development
permits, camping and off premise signs. The department had also developed a list of Thank
Yous to businesses for landscaping work and asked the Commission to provide
suggestions.
• No skateboarding/biking signs would be posted in the downtown area on the sidewalks and
the two hour parking signs would be removed due to lack of enforcement.
• FEMA was to visit Community Development on July 9, 2009 to review floodplain
development and NFIP (National Fooodplain Insurance Program) records.
• The last floodplain task force meeting was July 8, 2009 to set goals and provide direction
to the Kenai Peninsula Borough Assembly.
• Harmon Construction met the Branson Pavilion completion date of July 19, 2009. A one
year anniversary of the playground and pavilion ceremony was to be held that day and
reservations for pavilion use could be made after July 19, 2009 with Parks and Recreation.
• Final recommendation from the Economic Forum would be made at a Council meeting and
the main recommendation would be to develop a business packet.
City of Seward, Alaska PlanninK Commission Minutes
July 7, 2009 Volume 6, Page 2 37
• The Sadler's Alaska Wheel Chair Challenge was to occur on July 20, 2009 bringing 200
participants, volunteers, and spectators to Seward. There was to be a downtown route
closing traffic to vehicles.
• This was Bailey's last Planning and Zoning meeting and her replacement, Suzi Towsely
was to take over in August.
• Terry had spoken with Commissioner Heinrich and he was return to Seward in August.
In response to Ecklund, 'ferry noted there had been problems with the location of the trash
cans on the sidewalks. She said she would discuss these issues with Public Works.
In response to McClure, Terry stated she would ask the Clerk's office to change the Library
Committee Meeting from July 9, 2009 to July 16, 2009.
Roach' commended the thank you letters being distributed to local businesses.
Other Reports, Announcements & Presentations -None
Citizens' Comments on any subject except those items scheduled for Public Hearing
Paul Carter, inside City limits, discussed leasing property in SMIC for Godwin Glacier
Tours. He stated they were negotiating with the airport for a long term lease and thought the area
in SMIC would meet other business needs. He discussed the layout with 3 conexes, some storage
outside and no need for water of power.
In response to Ecklund, Carter stated Godwin Glaciers currently had a 90 day permit at the
airport and was asking for a long term lease on Lot 7. He further explained issues with helicopter
operations at the airport.
In response to Roach', Carter explained the location of lot 7 on the airport and thought the
helicopter operations should all be placed in the same location at the airport.
Approval of Agenda and Consent Agenda -
Motion (McClure/Ecklund)
Approve the Agenda and Consent Agenda
Terry requested the Commission accept and review Resolution 2009-15 Substitute in place
of the published resolution.
Motion (McClure/Ecklund)
Replace Resolution 2009-15 Substitute on
the Agenda
Motion Passed
Unanimous Consent
Main Motion Passed As Amended Unanimous
Ciry of Seward, Alaska Planning Commission Minutes
July 7, 2009 Volume 6, Page 2 3 8
The following items were approved on the Consent Agenda:
Resolution 2009-17 Recommending City Council and Kenai Peninsula
Borough Approval of the Preliminary Replat of Lots 1-6, Block 8, Original
Townsite of Seward, Library Replat, Located Between 229 and 239 Sixth
Avenue
May 7, 2009 Regular Meeting Minutes and May 19, 2009 Special Meeting
Minutes
Unfinished Business Items requiring a Public Hearing -None
New Business Items requiring a Public Hearing -
Resolution 2009-15 (Substitute) Recommending the Kenai Peninsula Borough
Approval of the Preliminary Replat of Lots 1 & 2 of USS 241, Clearview
Manor, Three Bears Replat, Vacation of Internal Lot Line and Dedicating
Approximately 461 Square Feet of Iron Drive Right-Of--Way, Located at 1711
Seward Highway, Within the Auto Commercial Zoning District
Terry reviewed Resolution 2009-15 and explained the differences between the original and
substitute resolution. She noted the substitute resolution changed the word dedicated to
dedicating. She stated the owners of Three Bears were considering a remodel and they were
required to vacate the internal lot lines and were dedicating additional right-of--way of Iron Drive.
She explained why this was not on the consent agenda.
In response to Ecklund, Terry stated the owners of Three Bears had paid for the survey.
Notice of public hearing being posted and published as required by law was noted and the
public hearing was opened.
No one requested to be heard and the public hearing was closed.
Motion (McClure/Stauffer) Approve Resolution 2009-15 Substitute
Motion Passed
Unanimous
Resolution 2009-16 Recommending Seward City Council and the Kenai
Peninsula Borough Approval of the Preliminary Replat of Lot 4A Block 2,
Marina Subdivision, Coast Guard Replat, Located South of Port Avenue at
Approximately 1509 X-Float Road, within the harbor Commercial Zoning
District
Terry reviewed Resolution 2009-16 and explained Lot 4A-2, Block 2, was being created
for the planned relocation of the Coast Guard building. She stated prior to final approval the plat
City of Seward, Alaska Planning Commission Minutes
./uly 7, 2009 Volume 6. Page 2 3 9
was to provide access and utility easements for all existing and proposed utilities and accesses.
She noted that plat notes were be included, the surveyor was to ask for a variance, to comply with
the dedicated Right-of Way access at the Borough Planning level, and she continued to review the
plat. She concluded that administration was looking forward to the Coast Guard moving to the
new location which would benefit both the Coast Guard and harbors.
In response to Roach', Terry explained the utilities and uses currently within the proposed
building location.
In response to Stauffer, Terry stated she did not have the specifics on what changes would
be made to plat note #4.
McClure requested to recuse herself from voting on this resolution in order to vote at the
Borough level.
Roach' granted her recusal on this issue.
In response to Ecklund, Harbor Master Anderson stated due to the deal that was agreed
upon between the City and Coast Guard the relocation costs would be split in half between both
parties. She noted the Coast Guard did not want to move from their location but since they are on
railroad and City property they need to move and further explained why the proposed location was
chosen. In further response to Ecklund, Anderson explained that the Coast Guard had
requirements on where the on shore facilities must be located in relation to the support vessel and
the current Mustang float location would not support the new service demands once the boat is
refitted at dry dock. Terry clarified the aerial had a Kenai Peninsula Borough overlay, which
skewed the image.
In response to Roach', Anderson noted the new Z float was able to support the Mustang
and other vessels. Anderson continued the railroad planned to improve the harbor area through
beautification efforts, once the Coast Guard had been relocated.
Notice of public hearing being posted and published as required by law was noted and the
public hearing was opened.
No one else requested to be heard and the public hearing was closed.
Motion (Stauffer/Morgan) Approve Resolution 2009-16
Stauffer expressed her approval of the Coast Guard and stated she would vote for this
Resolution.
Roach' commented that this proposal did not distract from the community but would help
enhance it.
Motion Passed Unanimous
City of Seward, Alaska Planning Commission Minutes
July 7, 2009 Volume 6 Page 2 4 0
Unfinished Business- None
New Business -
Resolution 2009-1$ Providing Recommendations to Council on the Request by
Godwin Glacier Tours, LLC to Lease a Parcel in the Seward Marine
Industrial Center
Terry reviewed Resolution 2009-18 noting the parcel in consideration had been
identified for lease and followed the Lease Proposal Policies and Procedures. She reviewed
these policies and procedures, as well as, recommendations noted in Section 1 of the
Resolution in great detail. Terry stated the proposer was in the audience and the
Commissions recommendations and staff comments were to be presented to Council.
In response to Roach, Carter stated he did not have any requests or additions to the
proposal at this time.
In response to Ecklund, Carter stated he had made a recommendation for square
footage and Administration picked an appropriate location. Ecklund noticed the importance
of the sublease requirements. Carter explained the businesses procedure of operating near the
prison boundaries.
Carter discussed Godwin Glaciers waste water requirements in great detail and stated
there was no intention of subleases.
In response to Roach', Harbor Master Anderson stated the area had been picked based
on the acreage, what was sectioned out in SMIC, road access, and the other requirements
required by the business. Anderson clarified the lease site in SMIC was to be used for
conexes and storage and the mobilization and demobilization was to occur near the North
Dock area and a terminal use permit was required.
In further response to Ecklund, Terry stated she would email the Commissioners the
fair market value information.
In response to Roach', Carter noted they understood the requirements for temporary
buildings.
Motion (Ecklund/McClure) Approve Resolution 2009-18
Motion Passed
Unanimous
Resolution 2009-19 Recommending the Seward City Council Request the
USDA Natural Resources Conservation Services to Complete Soils Surveys in
the Seward Area Expeditiously
City of Seward, Alaska Planning Commission Minutes
July 7, 2009 Volume 6, Page 2 41
Terry reviewed Resolution 2009-19 stating this was before the Commission as the third
resolution generated out of the flood plain task organized by the Kenai Peninsula Borough. She
stated the Flood Board approved the recommendation and this would go before the Kenai
Peninsula Assembly. She explained the importance of the soil survey and suitability mapping and
that there would be little or no cost for this service.
McClure noted that the Borough Planning Commission unanimously approved this
Resolution at their last meeting.
In response to Ecklund, Terry stated Homer and Wasilla/Palmer area had conducted this
soil survey. Terry clarified the soil surveys encouraged responsible development and was not
restricting development.
The Commission and Administration discussed low interest/no interest loans and FEMA
guideline requirements.
Motion (Stauffer/McClure) Approve Resolution 2009-19
Stauffer said the Flood Board would be happy to see this soil survey completed and what
could be determined from this type of study.
In response to Roach', Terry explained how the areas for sampling was to be selected.
In response to Ecklund, Terry was unsure if this was similar to PERK testing and. if
individuals could do this type of soil sampling on their property. Ecklund discussed her concern
with issues that would arise in the future.
McClure commented the original goal of the floodplain task force was to address issues of
flooding. She reiterated the need for people to build in responsible ways and that July 8, 2009 at
6:00 p.m. in Council Chambers was the last task force meeting and recommended people attend.
In response to Roach', Terry explained how Homer used the results from the soil survey
and suitability maps.
Motion Passed Unanimous
July 21, 2009 Work Session
Terry stated the next work session was to continue review of the Title 15 code revisions.
She discussed possible dates for the work session and stated Heinrich would not return to Seward
until the beginning of August.
The Commission expressed their displeasure with meeting until 10 p.m., conducting the
meeting via teleconference, having the meeting for three hours, and noted the need for
Administration to do some research. The Commission continued to discuss their availability.
City of Seward, Alaska Planning Commission Minutes
July 7, 2009 Volume 6, Page 2 9 2
Motion (McClure/Stauffer) Planning and Zoning Work Session
scheduled for July 14, 2009 from 6:30-8:30
p.m.
Motion Passed Unanimous
Informational Items and Reports (?Vo action required) -None
Commission Comments -
Stauffer stated she always learned something from the meetings.
McClure appreciated how the Commission was flexible with meeting dates and encouraged
the Commission to attend the Floodplain Task Force meeting.
Terry explained what would be discussed at the Floodlain Task Force occurring July 8,
2009 at 6:00 p.m.
Ecklund thought it was wonderful Community Development was sending out Thank Yous
for landscaping and appreciated everyone being prepared for the meetings.
Roach' concurred with Ecklund and thought the Commission could send landscaping
nominations to Community Development. She concluded that community member Roger
Steinbrecher had passed away.
Citizens' Comments -
Kari Anderson commented about harbor development and planning and the importance of
parking in the area.
Commissions and Administration Response to Citizens' Comments -
Roach' appreciated Anderson's consideration of parking.
Adjournment
Meeting adjourned at 8:49 p.m.
Anne Bailey
Executive Liaison
Sandie Roach'
Chair
(City Seal)
MEMORANDUM
City of Seward
Community Development
Date: August 4, 2009
To: Planning and Zoning Commission
Through: Community Development Director hristy Terry
From: Executive Liaison Suzi Towsley
Subject: August 18, 2009 Work Session
The Commission's next work session is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. on August 18, 2009.
No Public Hearing items were submitted by the July 28`h cut-off date and a Special
Meeting will not be scheduled for that evening.
The Commission should set a topic for their Work Session. Since May, the Commission
has held three work sessions on the Seward City Code Title I S Code Update. Council
has identified the update to Title I S as a priority, and the Administration recommends the
August 18 work session continue this process. The entire Title I S Code Update will be
available for the Commission's review including incorporated suggestions from previous
work sessions and newly completed articles. An electronic copy will be distributed to the
Commission and hard copies made available prior to the Work Session for the
Commission's review.
If needed, the Commission is allowed under Seward City Code 2.30.320 (a) to designate
their own time and place for Meetings and Work Sessions.
RECOMMENDATION:
The Planning and Zoning Commission should discuss and set (via motion) the topic for
the August 18, 2009 Work Session as, "Seward City Code Title 15 Code Update."
City of Seward
2009 Planning Zoning Commission
Meeting and Agenda Cut-Off Dates
Reminder: Per SCC2.30.220(a), the Commission shall meet at 7:30 p.m. in the
council chambers on the 1st Tuesday of each month
Public Hearing Items
Variance/CUP/Plat Reviews
(3 weeks prior to meeting) Non Public Hearing Notice
Items
(2 weeks prior to meeting) Meeting Date
December 16, 2008 December 23, 2008 January 6, 2009
December 30, 2008 NIA Janua 20, 2009
January 13 January 20 February 3
January 27 N/A February 17
Februa 10 Februa 17 March 3
Febuary 24 N/A March 17
March 17 March 24 April 7
March 31 N/A April 21
April 16 April 23 May 7
April 28 N/A May 19
May 12 May 19 June 2
May 26 N/A June 16
June 16 June 23 Jul 7
June 30 N/A July 21
July 14 July 21 August 4
July 28 N/A August 18
Au ust 11 Au ust 18 September 1
Au ust 25 N/A September 15
September 17 September 24 October 8
September 29 N/A October 20
October 15 October 22 November 5
October 27 NIA November 17
November 10 November 17 December 1
November 24 N/A December 15
December 15, 2009 December 22, 2009 Janua 5, 2010
December 29, 2009 N/A January 19, 2010
C:\Documents and Settings\dglenz.PLANNING_ASST1Loca1 SettingslTemporary Internet Files\OLK4\PZ mtg Cut Off Dates 2009.x1s
New Elevation Certificate brings a few Changes
In the April issue of the NFIP/CRS Update, you read that a new, slightly revised FEMA elevation
certificate form is now available, and that its use will be mandatory after March 31, 2010. During
the transition period, both the new certificate form and the previous one (which had an expiration
date of February 28, 2009) may be used.
All CRS communities are required to maintain FEMA elevation certificates to obtain and maintain
their classification in the CRS. The so-called "gig list" of items on the elevation certificate that
must be filled in, accurately, is given on pages 310-4 and 310-5 of the CRS Coordinator's
Manual. If any of these items is found to be missing or incorrect on a sample of elevation
certificates examined during a visit with your community, the ISO/CRS Specialist is required to
adjust your credit points accordingly.
Although the new elevation certificate does not result in changes in the gig list, a few
clarifications will help CRS communities use the new form more effectively.
- Item A6, Building Photographs. This item was not changed in the 2009 elevation certificate. As
a reminder, although the photographs are needed for insurance rating, they are not necessary for
CRS credit, nor are they needed for most local permitting programs.
- Item A7, Building Diagrams. These diagrams illustrate where to take the various elevation
measurements that are required in Section C of the elevation certificate. In the 2009 certificate,
the previous Building Diagram 1 has been subdivided into two types of buildings. New Diagram
1 A is the same as the previous Diagram 1. The new Diagram 1 B shows the appropriate spots to
measure the elevations on a building with a raised slab or foundation wall with fill (see next page)
There has been no change to Building Diagrams 2 through 8.
Anew Building Diagram 9 illustrates where to take the measurements on a compliant, below-
grade crawlspace where the crawlspace is less than 5 feet high and less than 2 feet below grade
(see next page).
- Item A9(b), Number of flood openings within 1 foot of the adjacent grade. The instructions
have been clarified to indicate that the level of the flood openings should be measured from either
-continued on next page
Mapping Brochure from FEMA ........................: Handouts on the CRS
Biennial Reports are Due ...............................:~ Training Opportunities
New Elevation Certificates -cont/nued from front page
DIAGRAM 1 B
All raised-slab-on-grade or slab-on-stem-wall-with-fill
single- and multiple-floor buildings (other than split-
level), either detached or row type (e.g., townhouses);
with or without attached ara e.
Distinguishing Feature -The bottom floor is at or above ground level
tgrade:~ on at least one side.'
C2.b
C2.a ~ NEXT HIGHER '
FLOOR Icy
BOTTOM FLOOR
GRADE
C2.f-h (determined by
existing grade)
DIAGRAM 8
All buildings (other than split-level) elevated on a sub-
grade crawispace, with or without attached garage.
Distinguishing Feature -'he bottom icra:aspace i floor is at or belo::
ground level (grade! on all sides.'" i if the distance from the cra•::Ispace floor
to the top of the next higher floor is more than 5 feet. or the cra-:(space floor
is more than :feet belo:: the grade iLAGI on all sides. use Diagra,•n 2. i
i C2.a
' C2.b
GRADE NEXT HIGHER
FLOOR C2.g i
'`C2.f
v ~
A8.b-c ; AB.a
OPENINGS'
the exterior or interior grade, whichever is higher, and that a note should be entered in the
comments section if the interior grade is used. This item must be filled in accurately, if
applicable, for CRS credit.
- I em A8(d) and A9(d) are new boxes to indicate whether a building on a crawispace or enclosure
or with an attached garage has flood openings that were engineered. If the "yes" box is checked,
the appropriate certificate must be attached, as explained in the instructions. This item must be
accurately completed for CRS credit.
- Item C2(h) is a new entry to indicate the measurement of the lowest adjacent grade at the lowest
elevation at the deck or stairs, if any. This is only needed for LOMAs and LOMR-Fs. It is not part
of the CRS gig list.
- Under Section D, where the elevation is professionally certified, there is a new place to indicate
whether the latitude and longitude of the building were provided by a licensed land surveyor. This
is not part of the CRS checklist.
- Item G10 is new but is not required for CRS credit. It allows entry of the community's design
flood elevation, if it has one.
The new FEMA elevation certificate and instructions can be downloaded from
I;tth:~~«~t.fin:~i.~~t~~~l~ltl;inc~s;nlit,/el~illst.alllm.
Statement of Purpose
The NFIP/CRS Update is a publication of the National Flood Insurance Program's Community Rating System. Its
purpose is to provide local officials and others interested in the CRS with news they can use.
The NFIP/CRS Update is produced in alternate months. It is distributed free to local officials, state officials, consultants,
and others who want to be on the mailing list. Communities are encouraged to copy and/or circulate the NFIP/CRS
Update and to reprint its articles in their own local, state, or regional newsletters. No special permission is needed.
To become a subscriber or to suggest a topic that you would like addressed, contact
NFIP/CRS Update, P.O. Box 501016, Indianapolis, IN 46250-1016
(317) 848-2898 Fax: (317) 848-3578 NFIPCRS@iso cons
-2-
Quick Guide to Flood Risk from FEMA
A short brochure just out from FEMA gives a quick
overview of the types of floodplains found in the
United States, the importance of identifying and
mapping flood risk, and how people can obtain flood
insurance for properties that are susceptible to flood
damage. It also describes the process by which a
community reviews its flood map if it is being updated,
and gives phones numbers and websites for further
information.
Why We Map Flood Risks is four-pages in full-color
and is useful for handing out to property owners,
having available at meetings with the public or elected
officials, and for display in a building department or
library that collects information on flooding.
It can be downloaded at ht(~~:%'~~ ~~ t~.fcnr,~.~~t~t:tit),'
lihrar~; ~ir~~ K~c~~r~i,ci~i''irl 3-11 7.
Send in those Biennial Reports
In April 2009, FEMA sent Biennial Report forms to all communities participating in the National Flood
Insurance Program, asking the communities to complete the forms and submit the information. A
second mailing of the Biennial Report will be sent to those communities that have not yet
responded to the first mailing. If your community has not submitted its completed Biennial Report
form as required for all communities participating in the NF[P, your ISO/CRS Specialist will be
notified to add submission of the Biennial Report as a requirement for this year's recertification.
Your Recertification Worksheet (AW-241) will be sent out in August and is due by October 1. A
complete recertification package is required each year to retain your CRS classification.
Information you submit on your Biennial Report is essential to the NFIP's maintenance of an
accurate database on all its communities. For CRS communities that use building counts to
determine any portion of their CRS credit, it is particularly important to verify or correct on the
Biennial Report the number of buildings in the Special Flood Hazard Area.
If you have questions about your report or your recertification, contact your ISO/CRS Specialist
(see Appendix F of the Coordinator's Manual). More information about the Biennial Report,
including access to an on-line reporting format, is found at hu~~:!!~~~~~~.Il~ui<inr~~~~.i7~~tlhr~'rJtl~I,
Now on the FEMA Website
Some key CRS materials are now posted on the FEMA Mitigation Directorate's website. They
include the CRS brochure, a current list CRS communities, the CRS Coordinator's Manual, and the
most recent NFIP/CRS Update newsletter. Browse at h~th:!i~~~~ ~~.I'cm~~.~~~t:%hu~in~~~~inli~~~~~~-~,.~I~iui.
The CRS Resource Center on the website of the Emergency Management Institute is being
updated and will be unveiled soon.
-3-
Handouts on the CRS
The CRS produces a series of handouts on some of the activities for which communities can
receive credit. The handouts can be used to familiarize a newcomer to the subject or to walk a
person through the step-by-step scoring process. They do not replace the CRS Coordinutor's
Manual or other materials that provide more detailed information, but they are useful as
summaries and/or specific instructions or examples.
The handouts are free in pdf format from your ISO/CRS Specialist or from N1 1N(~IZScri~ta.~,~in,
Activity Title # of Pages
210 Joining the Community Rating System 1
310 Form for noting Corrections to a 2009 Elevation Certificate 1
404 Using a Grid Overlay to Figure Areas 3
410 CRS Credit for Floodplain Mapping g
420 Documentation Protection of Natural Floodplain Functions 2
430 - CAZ CRS Credit for Coastal A Zone Regulations 7
430 -FRB Protecting Building Utilities and Ductwork from Flood Damage 4
430 - ENL Nonconversion Agreement 1
440 - BMM CRS Credit for Benchmark Maintenance 3
440 Converting NGVD to NAVD 2
502 Mapping Repetitive Loss Areas g
504 Funding Sources for Repetitive Flood Loss Properties 2
530 CRS Credit for Flood Control Projects 7
530 Environmental Review for Flood Control Projects 2
540 CRS Credit for Drainage System Maintenance 4
610 -SRC StormReady/TsunamiReady 2
620 CRS Credit for Levee Safety 2
710 Calculating the Community Growth Adjustment spreadsheet
Courtesy Reviews are Always Available
It's smart to contact your ISO/CRS Specialist if your community is planning to request CRS credit
for new activities you have undertaken since joining the CRS. The [SO/CRS Specialists are ready
and willing to take an informal look at your ordinance language, outreach project, or other product
to ensure that it will receive credit and to suggest minor changes that may yield a better score.
You can request this "courtesy review" any time, but allow enough time before you actually
apply for the additional credit so there won't be any delay in getting the points you deserve. Up-
to-date contact information for the [SO/CRS Specialists was published in the April NFlP/CRS
Update.
-4-
Opportunities for NFIP and CRS Training
Courses at the Emergency Management Institute
FEMA's Emergency Management Institute (EMI) conducts courses on floodplain management
and CRS-related topics. These are oriented to local building, zoning, planning, and engineering
officials. Tuition is free for state and local government officials and travel stipends are available.
Call the training office of your state emergency management agency, see
ht~~~:''irainin~.l~~~n~,i.~~t>~-', or call EMl at (301) 447-1.000.
Here's the schedule for EMI's week-tong classes of interest to CRS communities. For more
information on these courses, see IatiE~:!;~~~~~~.~r~ii~~in~~.f~~na.~~~>~ ~1:~~11('r,~n~;c~ I ;1~i1(~~~ur~,t•_;,>~;.
- The Community Rating System (E278) August 31-September 3, 2009, April 19-22, 2010,
June 14-17, 2010, August 9-12, 2010
The Community Rating System course is also offered at other sites upon request. It will be held in
Pocatello, Idaho (FEMA Region 10), July 27-3Q 2009. Get information from the Idaho State
NFIP Coordinator, Mary McCown, at (208) 287-4928..
- Managing Floodplain Development through the NFIP (E273) July 24-23, 2009
E273 is also field deployed periodically. Contact your State NFIP Coordinator for more
information. Find your State Coordinator at huh:ii~~ ~~ ~~.il~~r~~l~.~u~s~%Stn~cl'OC~;stcu~>r_a~~~~.
- Advanced Floodplain Management Concepts (E194) August 10-13, 2009
- Advanced Floodplain Management Concepts II (E282) September 14-17, 2009
- Basic HAZUS Multi-Hazards (E313) July 13-16, 2009
- Advanced HAZUS Multi-Hazards for Flood (E172) (prerequisite is E313) July 27-30, 2009
- HAZUS Multi-Hazards for Mitigation Planning (E296) August 3-6, 2009
- Residential Coastal Construction (E386) August 17-21, 2009
Under the 2007 CRS Coordinator's Manual five points are provided under Section 431.n, Staffing
(STF), for each member of the floodplain permit staff who graduates from courses E194, E273,
E278, E282, or E386. The maximum credit for training under Section 431.n is 25 points.
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- 5 -
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Draft Executive Order Aims to Curb Floodplain Development
By TARYN LUNTZ of Greenwire
Published: July 21, 2009
The White House is crafting an executive order aimed at toughening federal policies restricting the construction of
dams, levees, roads and other structures in flood-prone areas.
A draft executive order obtained by E&E would toughen a 1977 directive by President Carter that was seen
then as a landmark step establishing a federal leadership role in floodplain management.
But since devastating Midwest floods in 1993, disaster-nwnagement experts have been calling for a revision of
federal floodplain policies, saying agendes have failed to consistently comply with rules written in the wake of
Carter's order.
"You still go out and find post offices being built in fk.odplains," said Larry Larson, executive director of the
Association of State Floodplain Managers. "Where's the cheapest land? It's in the high-hazard area."
President Obama's draft order would direct agencies to use non-structural approaches -- typically, building codes,
planning laws and eduction campaigns -- to manage fk.odplains and protect public safety, wetlands and other
natural resources, rather than build levees and dams.
The order would also bar federal agencies from supporting "critical" facilities -- such as hospitals, police stations,
power plants or evacuation centers -- in 500-year fkoodplains, unless no alternative exists.
If the government decides to proceed with a project in a 100-year fkoodplain, the draft order would mandate
federal consultations with state, tribal and local governments. If those governments have more restrictive
development rules, federal agencies are to comply with them.
"The whole principle is that the federal govemment should be a leader and avading putting more property at
risk," said Gerald Galloway, a civil engineering professor at the University of Maryland who helped prepare a
fkoodplain-management study for President Linton. "It's important to know that the president really thinks this is
important. And an executive order signifies the relative priority of the president."
Executive orders guide federal agencies in developing regulations and hold no sway over state or kxal rules that
allow building in flood-prone but less expensive lands. But experts say federal money is a powerful motivator, and
state and local govemments often accept stricter regulations to qualify for funds.
Industry groups appeared wary of the draft order, concerned that it might discount the economic value of water-
resource projects.
"It seems to me the objedive here is really to limit any sort of strudural use of the fk.odplains," said Amy Larson,
president of the National Waterways Conference. "You really need to have a balance. My concern is there won't
be a balance anymore."
Christine Glunz, spokeswoman for the White House Council on Environmental Quality, said the draft executive
order is still being reviewed, and that CEQ is focusing first on a separate effort to rewrite guidelines for federal
water projects (Greenwire, July 14).
'This is just a draft executive order, so deliberations are still under way," Glunz said. "It is too early to project
what a final executive order would address, but it is considering more protection for floodplains when considering
fadlities and structures."
Meanwhile, agencies and departments that stand to be affected by the draft order -- notably, the Federal
Emergency Management Agency, the Army Corps of Engineers, the Department of Transportation, and the
Department of Housing and Urban Devebpment -- are watching the White House's work dosely.
Said Deborah Ingram, director of FEMA's risk redudion division, "We still have a bt of flooding going on in the
country, and I think there is just an interest in revisiting that and re-establishing that the federal govemment
does pay attention to it."
"We're looking to clean up some of the language and make it a little more streamlined," she added. "After 30
years, different people have interpreted things in different ways."
7/30/2009 1:23 PM
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