Loading...
HomeMy WebLinkAbout09012009 Planning & Zoning PacketSeward Planning Commission Agenda Packet September 1, 2009 Regular Meeting City Council Chambers Beginning at 7:30 pm Seward Planning c~ Zoning Commission Regular Meetin Sandie Roach ' Chair Term Expires 02/10 Sue McClure Vice Chair Term Expires 02/10 Vacant Commissioner Tenn Expires 02/12 Tena Morgan Commissioner Term Expires 02/10 Steven Heinrich Commissioner Term Expires 02/11 Christina Stauffer Commissioner Tenn Expires 02/12 Cindy Ecklund Commissioner Term Expires 02/11 Phillip Oates City Manager Christy Terry Community Development Director Suzi Towsley Executive Liaison ounct 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. Those who have signed in will be given the first opportunity to speak. Time is limited to 2 minutes per speaker and 30 minutes total time for this agenda item) 6. Approval of Agenda and Consent Agenda. Approval of Consent Agenda passes all routine items indicated by asterisk (*). Consent Agenda items are not considered separately unless a Commissioner so requests. In the event of such a request, the item is returned to the Regular Agenda. J Planning and Zoning Commission Regular Meeting Agenda September 1, 2009 Pn.~o 1 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 2009-21 granting a variance from Seward City Code 15.10.220 Development Requirements to allow the annual temporary placement of a membrane structure within the 5 foot West setback, from October 15 through April 15 on Lot lA, Block 1, Marina Subdivision, 1301 Fourth Avenue, within the Harbor Commercial Zoning District ...................................... Page 3 8. Unfinished Business -None 9. New Business - ~ A. August 4, 2009 Regular Meeting Minutes ................................................. Page 18 B. Set Work Session Topic for September 15, 2009 ....................................... Page 23 10. Informational Items and Reports (No action required)- A. Alaska Journal of Commerce article - Seward Ships Drydock is Big Business .................................................... Page 24 B. Preserve America Community Seward Alaska Recognition ...................... Page 26 11. Commission Comments 12. Citlzeris' COmmeritS [Limit to S minutes per individual -Each individual has one opportunity to speak) 13. Commissions and Administration Response to Citizens' Comments 14. Adjournment Planning and Zoning Commission Regular Meeting Agenda September 1, 2009 P~.,~~ 2 2 Sponsored by: Staff CITY OF SEWARD, ALASKA PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION RESOLUTION 2009-21 RESOLUTION 2009-21 OF THE SEWARI3 PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION, GRANTING A VARIANCE FROM SEWARD CITY CODE 15.10.220 DEVELOPMENT REQUIREMENTS TO ALLOW THE ANNUAL TEMPORARY PLACEMENT OF A MEMBRANE STRUCTURE WITHIN THE 5 FOOT WEST SETBACK, FROM OCTOBER 15 THROUGH APRIL 15 ON LOT lA, BLOCK 1, MARINA SUBDIVISION, 1301 FOURTH AVENUE, WITHIN THE HARBOR COMMERCIAL ZONING DISTRICT WHEREAS, Mark Clemens, owner of Bay Traders, Inc. has applied to the Seward Planning and Zoning Commission for a zoning variance from Seward City Code (SCC)§ 15.10.220 REVEL®PMENT REQUIREMENTS, to allow the annual 6 month placement of a membrane structure within the 5 foot West side setback on Lot lA, Block 1, Marina Subdivision; and WHEREAS, the applicant is requesting the variance to allow the annual placement of a membrane structure within the 5 foot West side setback to allow winter storage and maintenance of his charter vessels; and WHEREAS, the applicant has stated the enclosed area would only be use for the private parking/storage and maintenance of the Bay Traders vessels, no renting or leasing of the space would occur; and WHEREAS, as required by Seward City Code § 15.01.040, Public Hearings, property owners and Lease holders within 300 feet of the requested variance parcel were notified of the proposed action, and the property was posted with public notice signage. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Seward Planning and Zoning Commission that: Section 1. According to SCC~ 15.10.325.D, the Commission shall establish a finding that all of the following conditions have been found to exist prior to issuing a variance permit: 1. The proposed action must be consistent with all of the general conditions required for a conditional use permit. The project is consistent with all of the conditional use permit requirements as follows: A. The use is consistent with the purpose of this chapter and the purposes of the zoning district Finding: This condition has been met. The purpose of the Zoning Code is to promote public health, safety and general welfare by providing for planning and land use regulations within the city. The property is zoned Harbor Commercial. According to the Zoning Code, Land Uses Allowed Table, Boat, repair & maintenance, and Boat, 3 Seward Planning and Zoning Commission Resolution 2009-21 Page 2 o f 4 storage commercial are allowed as outright uses within the Harbor Commercial District. Parking is allowed within the setback. B. The value of adjoining property will not be significantly impaired. Finding: There is no indication that the proposed use of the 5 foot West setback would significantly impair the value of adjoining property. The requested use period of the setback would run from October 15th through April 15th and would make minimal impact during these winter months. No portion of the membrane structure will remain in place during the summer tourist season, April 16th through October 14th. The property abutting the West side setback is used as the Breeze Inn parking lot. During the winter months the south end of this parking lot receives minimal use. C. The proposed use is in harmony with tl:e Seward Comprehensive Plan. Finding: This condition has been met. The existing use of the property as a commercial business is supported within the Comprehensive Plan and the Small Boat Harbor Plan. The use of the 5-foot west side setback for parking/storage and maintenance of the vessels owned by Bay Traders would support this business. D. Public Services and facilities are adequate to serve the proposed site. Finding: This condition has been met. Adequate water, sewer, and power are available to the property, as well as adequate police, fire and solid waste disposal services. However the enjoyment of this variance would not require any change or increase to the use of public water, sewer or power utilities. The public works director has stated there are no issues for the water, sewer or public streets department. The electric department has stated the minimal distance requirements from existing utility poles in the area and those distances can be met. E. The proposed use will not be harmful to the public safety, health or welfare. Finding: There is no indication that the proposed use of the 5 foot West setback will be harmful to the public safety, health or welfare. Fire Chief Dave Squires has submitted comments and worked with the applicant to assure life safety issues will be met. The annual temporary use of the 5 foot setback will allow adequate space between the existing structure and the proposed membrane structure. The applicant is required to obtain a membrane structure permit and inspection each year before placement of the structure. F. Any and all specific conditions deemed necessary by the commission to fulfill the above-mentioned conditions shall be met by the applicant These may include but are not limited to measures relative to access, screening, site development, building design, operation of the use and other similar aspects to the proposed use. 4 Seward Planning and Zoning Commission Resolution 2009-21 Page 3 o f 4 1. This variance shall allow the annual 6 month placement of a membrane structure within the 5 foot west side setback on Lot 1 A, Block 1, Marina Subdivision between October 15`" anti April 15t"only. The complete structure shall be removed between April 16~' and October 14~'. 2. The applicant shall obtain a membrane structure permit each year before placement of the membrane structure on the property. 3. The area between the west exits of the main structure and the membrane structure must remain clear of all storage and snow all the way to the end of the building, allowing for saf ~ and adequate emergency exit at all times. 4. No storage of any type shall be allowed under the stairway from the fire department connection (FDC) to the south end of the building. 5. No storage is allowed within the membrane structure other than what is being used for the boat maintenance. 6. The applicant shall maintain the membrane structure in good condition and complete repairs promptly. 7. The applicant shall obtain all necessary Federal, State and local permits required for the vessel maintenance work. 2. Special conditions and circumstances exist which are peculiar to the land or structures involved and which are not applicable to other lands and structures in the same district. Finding: This condition has Y-een partially met. The open area on the West side of the existing structure allows plenty of area for parking of the applicants vessels however the inclement weather conditions of Seward's winter months have proven that maintenance cannot be accomplished without some protection from the elements. The applicant is requesting the use of the 5 foot west setback to provide enough area to cover the ve,~sels so that maintenance can occur during the inclement weather of our winter months. 3. 'I`he special conditions and circumstances were not caused by actions of the applicant Finding: This condition has been met. The special conditions and circumstances of inclement weather are naturally occurring condition and not created by the applicant. 4. Financial hardship or inconvenience shall not be a reason for granting a variance. Finding: This condition has been met. The inclement weather is a naturally occurring condition. No financial gain or loss has been c;onsidered in this review. 5. ®ther nonconforming land uses or structures within the district shall not be considered as grounds for granting a variance. Finding: This condition has been met. No nonconforming structures or uses were considered in this review. 6. The requested variance is the minimum variance necessary to permit the reasonable use of the property. 5 Seward Planning and Zoning Commission Resolution 2009-21 Page 4 o f 4 Finding: This condition has been met. The applicant is requesting a variance to use the 5 foot west setback only during the winter months from October 15th through April 15th. No portion of the membrane structure will remain after each use. 7. The requested variance will not permit a land use in a district where the use is prohibited. Finding: This condition has been met. The property is zoned Harbor Commercial. The use of the property for boat storage and repair is allowed as an outright use in the Harbor Commercial District. Areas of the Harbor Commercial District have varying set-back requirement based on where in the Small Boat Harbor the parcel is located. Section 2. The Planning and Zoning Commission finds that the request meets the review criteria required for granting a variance, and hereby approves the request for a variance from Seward City Code (SCC)§ 15.10.220 DEVELOPMENT REQUIREMENTS, to allow the annual 6 month placement of a membrane structure within the 5 foot west side setback on Lot 1 A, Block 1, Marina Subdivision subject to the conditions required in Section 1, Subsection F. Section 3. This resolution shall take effect 10 days following its adoption. PASSED AND APPROVED by the Seward Planning and Zoning Commission this 1St day of September 2009. THE CITY OF SEWARD, ALASKA Sandie Roach', Chair AYES: NOES: ABSENT: ABSTAIN: VACANT: One ATTEST: Jean Lewis, CMC City Clerk (City Seal) 6 P~~Z Agenda Statement Meeting Date: September 1, 2009 ;~ Through: Christy Te~~ry, Community Development Director ~ From: Donna Glenz, Associate Planner ~p~W Agenda Item: Resolutions 2009-21 granting a variance from Seward City Code 15.10.220 Development Requirements to allow the annual temporary placement of a membrane structure within the 5 foot West setback, from October 15 through April 15 on Lot lA, Block 1, Marina Subdivision, 1301 Fourth Avenue, within the Harbor Commercial Zoning District BACKGROUND & JUSTIFICATION: Applicant Mark Clemens, dba Bury Traders, Inc. has applied for a zoning variance from Seward City Code (SCC)§15.10.220 DE`IELOPMENT REQUIREMENTS, to allow the annual 6 month placement of a membrane structure within the 5 foot West side setback on Lot lA, Block 1, Marina Subdivision. The applicant has requested this variance to place the membrane structure within the 5-foot West side set back to allow winter storage/parking and maintenance of Bay Traders commercial vessels. The applicant has parked/stored the vessels in this location for many years. He has found that the inclement weather conditions of Seward's winter months have proven that maintenance cannot be accomplished without some protection from the elements. Over the past several years he has attempted several different types of coverage however in order to meet life safety concerns he must push the membrane structure away from the main building on the parcel to allow adequate emergency access. When he pushes the membrane structure to the West further away from the main building the structure then is within the West setback, hence the request for the variance to allow the use of the setback during; the winter months. SURROUNDING LAND USE AND ZONING: The large parcel to the West and North is awned by the City and contains the Breeze Inn Motel and Restaurant. The south portion of that adjoining parcel is used as parking lot. The parcels to the East across Fourth Avenue are owned by the City and contain the Harbor Master building and other leased sites. The parcel to -the South across South Harbor Street is owned by the City and leased by the Marina Restaurant. There is no indication the requested winter use of the 5-foot West setback will negatively impact the value of any of adjoining properties. Floodplain status: According to the FEMA Flood Insurance Rate Map, this property is not located in a flood hazard area. 7 Planning and Zoning Agenda Statement Resolution 2009-21 Pace 2 of 3 Utilities: Adequate water, sewer, and power are available to the property, as well as adequate police, fire and solid waste disposal services. However the enjoyment of this variance would not require any change or increase to the use of public water, sewer or power utilities. The public works director has stated there are no issues for the water, sewer or public streets department. The electric department has stated the minimal distance requirements from existing utility poles in the area and these distances shall be met. Fire Chief Dave Squires has submitted comments and worked with the applicant to assure life safety issues will be met. The annual temporary use of the 5 foot setback will allow adequate space between the existing structure and the proposed membrane structure. The applicant is required to obtain a membrane structure permit and inspection each year before placement of the structure. Parking: The Seward City Code does not require off street parking within the Harbor Commercial District. Consistency Checklist: Yes No NA Comprehensive Plan (2020) X _ 3.2.1 Promote residential and commercial development within the City of Seward in accordance with community values. (page 19) Promote expansion and development of local entrepreneurial businesses. (page 16) Strategic Plan (1999) X This plan recommends adjusting local development regulations where appropriate to encourage development that is consistent with the economic base vision (pg 5). Small Boat Harbor Management Plan (1993) X This plan encourages the support oftourist/marine related businesses. Property owners within three hundred (300) feet of Lot lA, Block 1, Marina Subdivision were notified of this proposed variance. Public notice signs were posted on the property, and all other public hearing requirements of Seward City Code § 15. 01.040 were complied with. At the time of publication of this report, staff has received no public comments. If any comments are received after this publication, they will be presented as a lay down to the Commission and the public at the September 1, 2009 meeting. RECOMMENDED CONDITIONS: 1. This variance shall allow the annual 6 month placement of a membrane structure within the 5 foot west side setback on Lot lA, Block 1, Marina Subdivision between October 15~' and April 15`" only. The complete structure shall be removed between April 16~' and October 14tH 2. The applicant shall obtain a membrane structure permit each year before placement of the membrane structure on the property. 8 Planning and Zoning Agenda Statement Resolution 2009-21 Page 3 of 3 3. The area between the west exits of the main structure and the membrane structure must remain clear of all storage and snow all the way to the end of the building, allowing for safe and adequate emergency exit at all times. 4. No storage of any type shall be allowed under the stairway from the fire department connection (FDC) to the south end of the building. 5. No storage is allowed within the membrane structure other than what is being used for the boat maintenance. 6. The applicant shall maintain the membrane structure in good condition and complete repairs promptly. 7. The applicant shall obtain all necessary Federal, State and local permits required for the vessel maintenance work. RECOMMENDATION: The Community Development Department staff recommends approval of Resolution 2009-21 granting a variance from Seward City Code 15.10.220 Development Requirements to allow the annual temporary placement of a membrane structure within the 5 foot West setback, from October 15 through April 15 on Lot lA, Block 1, Marina Subdivision, 1301 Fourth Avenue, within the Harbor Commercial Zoning District subject to the conditions listed above and included within Resolution 2009-21. 9 .~ ,, A ~ h h C ~ 5~~, A~~ ~ 0 2~ P1-A N C~--° CITY OF SEWARD COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT OFFICE P.O. Box 187 • Seward, Alaska 99664 (907) 224-4048 APPLICATION FOR ZONING VARIANCE This completed application is to be submitted to the Community Development Department no later than three (3) weeks in advance ofthe next regularlyscheduled-Planning & Zoning Commission meeting held the .first Tuesday of each month. The application must be accompanied by the applicable fees established by city resolution; and if property is already developed, an as-built survey prepared by a surveyor registered in the State of Alaska; or scaled site plan of undeveloped land which shows: a) property dimensions; b) location and dimensions of existing and planned buildings; c) parking configuration; d) driveways/access; e) natural features; f) variance requested; and g) other pertinent information. 1 Applicant: ~ ~~G'~ ~i~~ rYIC~/' L Ct'~~VY~~-~/J„ Address: ~ 3D3 4'~ ~ ~ (}~o~c later'/ ~~~ Telephone No.: o~~ y_ 7~U7 Property Owner(if other than applicant): / ~ ® ~ ' Address: Telephone No.: Property Address: 1 ~ Lot Size: (acres/SF- Lot Block Subdivision ~'IG+/'~~~ ,S„~a~L-.1-o~^-- Tax Parcel No:. -_-_ A. Variance Request for: ' ~ C'~ar- ~ LS~~'~ B. The existingsituation is: ~ ,S~c2-~ ~ 1-~ ~i~r-, ~f' (JLe_- )_ ?~ d GL ,S fi~ G// /S~ Uy~' cr~' C7dG~,~ I~'1~ (/lla'~/`k-,. C. Granting this variance would permit: ~l~Du/ '~i~iyJ~~ ~'jG~r h'7cw+~+ea_ `~v DCE.u•'' D. What structures are located on the property? E: What is the existing use of the property? F. What is the proposed use of the property. G. What is your development time schedule \_ ~r y~~_ Variance Application 3/00 ~.~ ~ ~ ~ /1 !7 f 1 I ~ ~ ~ P e 1 of 3 10 ~l~ he applicant hereby alleges that: r f 1 ~ * h he Planning & Zoning Commission may only ,grant a variance if the Commission. finds all of the ~Ilowing conditions are met. Each condition must have a response in as much detail as it takes to Beet the condition. Please use additional paper if there is not enough room here for your response. allure to document your case reduces the likelihood of your variance being granted. . The proposed action is consistent with all of the general conditions required for a conditional use ermit as follows: a. The use is cons stent with the purpose of tie Zoning Code and the purposes of the zoning district:~p/I.~cl ,br?-r ('y,~y~ ~.~e~ !'~;D~.: r p-~e.n~,-~ ~ )~ b. The vjalue of,%•}he adjoining property will not b~///}~{ignificantly impaired: 0 c. `eproposed use is in harmony with the Seward Comprehensive Plan: ~_~~i+r+r- ~ ~~ S ,2-. d. Public services and facilities are adequate to serve the proposed use: /~ /'19~a~'. e. The proposed use will not be harmful to the public safety, health or welfare: ~~~ovi 2. Special onditions and circumstances exist which are peculiar to the land or structures involved and which ar of applicable to other lands a structures in the sam district. These special conditions r Cam' c~,~r~ S '~ `~ ~~-~. ~vvr ~' 3. The special conditions and circum anges~ave not een caused by actions of the applicant in that: A 4. Financial hardship or inconvenience shall not be a reason for, grpn~ng a variance in that: district shall not be considered grounds for ~ __ ~ ~ R 5. Other nonconforming land use or structures granting a variance In that: 6. The variance granted is the building o cture in that: ` 3 ~, l~ ~v~ ,r~-- t'.~.jcX'l ~ S'r i~2 Variance AppAcstion 3/00 that wilt make possible a reasonable use of the land, ~- //ar 'mac wo'l . ~~'~~-~ U~x.~-. ^~"e 11 Psps 2 of 3 h i! -`~ ~~ A , 7. Gra~ting'the variance will not permit a use that is not otherwise permitted,inthe district in which tha property`lies in -that: . I hereby certify that all statements and other information submitted are true and accurate to the best of my knowled ,and that I, as applicant, have the following legal interest in the property: _Owner of record; Lessee; _ Contract Purchaser;_ duly authorized to act for a person who has the following legal interest: ,and that the owner of record is knowledgeable of this application if I am not the owner. I understand that the variance fee is non-refundable to over the cost associated with processi g this a lication and that it does not assure a ro I of t variance. Applicant's Signature: Property Owner`s Signature Enc: Fee: S250 (~') paid Site plan (~/( Location Map (y~ As built survey (~ ~, - a Varisnc~-Application 3100 -• Pape 3 of 3 12 ;'~!k ~ ~ r~ i''11 r~ ; ~. ~ u 1;' ~a L. Vii/ ' it dba Bay Traders True Value dba The Fish House P.O. Box 1209 (907) 224-8286 Seward, Alaska 99664 Fax (907) 224-7108 August 7th, 2009 City of Seward Planning & Zoning Community Development Fire Department RE; Application for a Permanent Variance for Temporary Membrane Structure located at 1303 4ht Ave (behind The Fish House) . In 2006 I was granted a 1-time permit from the City of Seward to allow the use of a Temporary structure behind The Fish House. The Fire Code and Egress requirements presented by The Fire Dept. were all met at that time. In order to erect the structure again certain City codes need to be adhered to or a Variance issued. The main problem with putting this temporary structure here is the 5' setback requirement (city code-SCC 15.10.140 and SSC 15.10.220), as shown in Christy Terry's March 20091etter. If I was able to be granted a Permanent Variance (not a re-zone) than I could preform our off-season boat work inside this structure. We all are aware of the inclement weather during the winter months and the short operating season of the summer. The Membrane structure allows my vessels to be ready to operate early in the season and also employee 2-additional people in the winter. Locating behind The Fish House is both extremely convenient (electrical connections, supplies, and is also partially protected from our high winds of the winter). The size of the Temporary Membrane Structure will be 21'x 90' in length(see layout).This Temporary Structure will NOT be used to rent out or preform for-hire jobs, it is strictly to be used for our Co's boats. The r quirements of egress and fire code will again be met as they are presented. Clemens Bay Traders Inc/The Fish House Fish House Charters LLC 907-224-7807 13 ~ r b~ ~_ ` _ . I ..__. _ --_._.. - -- 7C 4' X4.9 i sewer , cfenn- ; ~ lk~ht i out ;pole Y ~ ~ water vnlve!~ i v ~ I I ' ~ ~ O v f ~ ~ ~ I ~ ~ ~ U _. G Y. ~ N .--a ~ i d'. 7 7 ~ Q' Q/l N F_ L; ;~' ~ l ~C i ~ I I L ~ ~ U I G v L - - I ~ \ ~ F o - - - - --- I ~ --- --~_. I 4 c .; : URt. J I ~ ~ B'~,Ii_Uli 1;_~ ~, --, - - -~ i _ y ~. i FAST I 140" --_ ~ ~ ~:; i ~ I Fence !~ ~ O agnt j iS ~ '~ ~ pole j 1~ i J --~ ~ ,11 c, ~ ' -~ ~ ~ LOT 1A ~'' ! ~ ~ 6i i j i -° I I i O 1 C i ~ I ~ ~ t ~ C I v~ C cti N i - o ~ ~. ' o ~, ~ , ~' CITY OF SEWARD E ~ ~ _ .L ~ ~ ~ ~~ ~. ~ AUG 2 4 ZU~J ~ ~ Y U .., c-~ ~ -~ `~ b = ~.; ~ 14 9 PLANNING OFFICE ~1 ~ ~ © ~ Q"'~ I ~ I R = 40G'~ storn I ~CQd1f1C{ dOC~<, T = 4C0~ ~ ~ `drain ~ recessed in bldg ~~' / ~ ~~ ~,% 0 5J -F- 2 `~-~ ~~ ~, ~.~ ~-1-~~ -~-X3.4------=--~/ ~ /' .~ ~ ~~ ~ (`d~. % ~^I~ Q ~, -e WEST 74.0' I _/ D ~~"~ -~ dram ~ ----'~ `O SOUTH HARBOR 14 ~. ~~ .~ .~ .~ ~ r~ ~~ ra ..~ , ~~~~~ dba Bay Traders True Value dba The Fish House P.O. Box 1209 Seward, Alaska 99664 08/22/09 City of Seward Planning and Zoning Commission RE: Permanent Variance for Temporary Membrane Structure ..~ .. ~~' ~~~~~, (907) 224-8286 Fax (907) 224-7108 Thank you for taking the time to review my application, unfortunately I have a scheduled family moose hunt from August 29~'' thru September 6"' and will be unable to attend the current September 1 S' meeting. If there are any unanswered questions regarding my application I respectfully ask that you vote to Postpone your decision until I may address and alleviate your concerns at a future meeting. ~ ~ ~ ark Clemens Bay Traders Inc 907-224-7807 907-362-3866 cell 15 ,,y ~ -~ may.,. is, A ~ i,. r L i 16 Zoning Variance Request ~ Resolution 2009-21 Bay Traders N °`a'"" ey: D.Glenz Mapping Assistance p $ Z public Hearin 0 65 130 Feet by g I i ~ Alaska Map Co. oats: September 1, 2009 17 c Q South Harbor Street I-- City of Seward, Alaska August 04, 2009 Planning Commission Minutes Volume 6, Page 3 4 7 Call to Order The August 4, 2009 Regular Meeting of the Seward Planning & Zoning Commission was called to order at 7:30 p.m. by Chair Roach'. Opening Ceremony Commissioner Heinrich led the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag. Roll Call There were present: Sandie Roach' presiding, and Christina Stauffer Steven Heinrich Cindy Ecklund Sue McClure comprising a quorum of the Commission; and Christy Terry, Community Development Director Donna Glenz, Associate Planner Suzi Towsley, Executive Liaison Excused: Tina Morgan City Administration Report Community Development Director Christy Terry updated the Commission of the following business items: • The upper stretches of Fourth of July Creek had shifted east within its banks, preventing flooding of the area during the high-water event July 29, 2009. The main item of concern was the bridge to Lowell Point and it was inspected by PND Engineering on Friday July 31 and Sunday August 2, 2009 and was certified as safe. PND Engineering Inc. is the same firm that was repairing damage to the bridge sustained during the 2006 flooding. Those repairs are scheduled for completion in fa112009 so damage from the July 2009 flood should fall into the scope of that timeline. • A meeting of the Seward Bear Creek Flood service area had taken place on Monday August 3, 2009 and KPB personnel gave a report of flooding. An EOC had been activated for outside city limits with a good pictorial record of the event. • The Kenai River Center was expected to set ameeting/permitting day in approximately 2 weeks. • Christy Terry welcomed new Executive Liaison, Suzi Towsley and introduced her to the commission. • Alaska Homeland Security representatives will be here on Friday to work with Terry and Kirsten Vessel on grant applications for Dairy Hill drainage system. A representative for 18 City of Seward, Alaska August 04, 2009 Planning Commission Minutes l~olume 6, Page 3 4 8 the Seward/Bear Creek Flood Board will meet with HLS as well to discuss flood mitigation and grant opportunities. An eventual floodplain mitigation plan for future development would be of interest to this commission. • Asphalt was being laid at the Long Term Care Facility. Dr. Bill Thomas, founder of the Greenhouse Concept, will be in Seward for a reception August 24`h, 2009 and Commission will be invited. Grand opening will be September 19th. Commissioners will receive "Save the Date" for that event. • Library/Museum Requests for Proposal will be going out in September for management and 35% design completion of the project. This project will be unique for the City in that it will have a specifically chosen project manager from the architectural firm, instead of having the department head serve in that capacity. This would not go out on construction bid until the October advisory vote had taken place. Funding had only been spent from the `Friends of Library' organization and no City money had been spent on this project. • Thank you notes were sent out by the department to businesses and individuals who had done serious aesthetic improvements or landscaped their property, including the Marina Restaurant in the harbor, which was now in compliance. • Representatives for the ADECs, Air Quality Monitoring office were to be in Seward on Friday and meet with Christy and Phillip to discuss that program and plan for placement of the Federal Reference Air monitors. There will be an upcoming informational public meeting. • Compliance report- the new owners of Reds had started the process of bringing it into compliance. In response to question from Ecklund, Terry said that she had sent the Fair Market Value report to the commission via email. In response to question from Ecklund, Terry stated that the commissioners will be invited to any public meeting held by ADEC. In response to question from Stauffer, Terry clarified that ADEC was an acronym for Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation. In response to question from Chair Roach', Thank Yous had been sent to The Breeze Inn and Restaurant, Alaska Shop, Harbor Enterprises, Liberty Theater, Seward Merchants Association, Sarah Nann, US Air Force Rec Camp, Willard and Bev Dunham, Wells Fargo, First National Bank of Alaska and recently Marina Harbor Restaurant. Terry asked for specific direction from the commission on other deserving business owners or individuals for future Thank You cards. Other Reports, Announcements & Presentations -None Citizens' Comments on any subject except those items scheduled for Public Hearing- None Approval of Agenda and Consent Agenda - 19 City of Seward, Alaska Planning Commission Minutes August 04, 2009 Volume 6, Page 3 4 9 Motion (McClure/Heinrich) Approve the Agenda and Consent Agenda Motion Passed Unanimous Consent The following items were approved on the Consent Agenda: July 7, 2009 Regular Meeting Minutes Unfinished Business Items requiring a Public Hearing -None New Business Items requiring a Public Hearing - 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 Terry reviewed Resolution 2009-20 and explained the applicant had requested the rezone in order to develop the land to match surrounding land uses in the district. This re-zone would bring the lots into conformance with the City Land Use Plan and this action would then move on to the Seward City Council for adoption. The land is contiguous to the Urban Residential district. In response to McClure, Associate Planner Glenz explained the existing 30 X 40 foot portion of right-of--way located on the West property line of Lot 25 had not been included in the First Avenue right-of--way vacation years ago by choice of the property owner. She continued to explain that portion of right-of--way would remain open until such time as the property owner replated and requested the right-of--way vacation. In response to Heinrich, Terry explained that both owners were aware of the re-zone to match the Land Use Plan but the original application was made by one land owner. Terry stated there were two lots, with two owners being considered. She noted that no negative response had been received. In response to Heinrich, Terry stated that due to the existing right-of--way, there will be a smaller amount of usable land on Lot 25; however City Development Requirements would still apply, limiting development of the lot to 40%. Heinrich voiced concern that the application for rezone had not been made by both lot owners. In response to McClure, Terry stated that if the two owners want to join these lots and or build a single family structure or other structure that they would be more than welcome to work with the City Building Department. 20 Ciry of Seward, Alaska August 04, 2009 Planning Commission Minutes Volume 6, Page 3 5 0 In response to Chair Roach', Terry stated that regardless of type of development, the maximum land use is 40%. 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/Ecklund) Approve Resolution 2009-20 Stauffer expressed her concern about the width of Brownell Street and the access to the area being limited for emergency responders. She said she would support the rezone but wanted the limited access noted. She was concerned about high density housing on a single lane street. Terry thanked Stauffer for the comment and stated that she is not aware of any plans to widen the access. In response to Stauffer, Glenz stated that Brownell is a 20 foot wide alley that had been used as a street and there were no city plans to widen it. Motion Passed Unanimous Unfinished Business- None New Business Set Work Session Topic for August 18, 2009 Terry stated that administration was requesting the Commission set "Updates to Title 15 Seward City Code" as the work session topic for August 18 2009. Commissioners unanimously concurred and set date and topic for the work session. Informational Items and Reports (No action reguiYed) - National Flood Insurance Program/Community Rating System Newsletter June 2009 Edition- reviewed. Draft Federal Executive Order to Curb Floodplain Development Informational article attached- reviewed. Commission Comments - 21 City of Seward, Alaska Planning Commission Minutes August 04, 2009 Volume 6, Page 3 51 Stauffer repeated her concern about the width of Brownell Street and emergency vehicle access. She praised all responders to the July 29, 2009 high-water event and their hard work and dedication. The community pulled together and should be proud of it's self. Ecklund thanked all the conunissioners for attending and expressed that she was happy that the Commission was moving forward with Code 15 revisions. Heinrich stated that he was happy to be home from his travels and was ready to carry on and move forward. McClure thanked responders to the July flood, and was amused at how Borough officials have mixed up Homer and Seward more than once. She remarked how nice the new Long Term Facility looked, and asked about public meeting signs that were still up in the Harbor area and requested they be taken down. Chair Roach' thanked all the responders to the high-water event and voiced how much she appreciated the hard work done by both Terry and Glenz. Terry thanked Glenz for training Townley and explained to the Commission that Towsley and Glenz would both be at the August 18 work session and Glenz would serve as the parliamentarian at the September meeting. Towsley would serve in that capacity afterward. Citizens' Comments -None Commissions and Administration Response to Citizens' Comments -None Adjournment Meeting adjourned at 8:07 p.m. Suzi Towsley Executive Liaison (City Seal) Sandie Roach' Chair 22 P&Z Agenda Statement Meeting Date: September 1, 2009 To: Planning and Zoning Commission Through: Community Development Director, Christy Terry From: Executive Liaison, Suzi Towsley Agenda Item: Work Session for Title 15 Code updates for Flood Plain Ordinance BACKGROUND & JUSTIFICATION: The Commission held a work session on August 18, 2009 discussing revisions to the Seward City Code Chapter 15.25 Floodplain Management. A joint meeting is scheduled with the Seward Bear Creek Flood Service Area Board on September 1, 2009 and a work session is scheduled September 15`", 2009. The Commission reviewed proposed revisions to Seward City Code Chapter 15 at its August 18, 2009 meeting. At tonight's meeting, the Commission should formalize their direction to administration by making and approving a motion clarifying their wishes with respect to the September 15`" 2009 Work Session topic. RECOMMENDATION It is the recommendation of administration that the commission set the work session topic for September 15`", 2009 as `Updates to Title 15 Seward City Code, Flood Plain Ordinance.' 23 Seward drydock is big business booster gy Margaret Alaska Journal of Commerce Bauman SEWARD - Rain clouds hovered over Resurrection Bay on amid-August morning as veteran welder John Ryan stood on a steel surface 70 feet up in the air, welding on the underside of the 800-ton Crowley Marine Service's tugboat Vigilant. The 80-foot vessel was in the midst of a 10- day stay at Seward Ship's Drydock, at the Seward Marine Industrial Center, for maintenance on its propulsion system, piping and painting. Ryan, a professional welder for three decades, was busy welding the Z-drive, a type of marine propulsion unit for the tug, which is operated by Crowley in Cook Inlet. Shipyard workers employed the company's 5,000-ton Syncro-Lift to lift the tug some 70 feet into the air, before bringing it to rest on a transfer cradle and blocking. 9 ~h An 80-foot, 800-ton tugboat, Vigilant, owned by Crowley Marine Service gets maintenance services on its propulsion system, piping and a new paint job at Seward Ships Drydock in Seward. The shipyards busy season runs from September through May. Pnoro~Margarer Bauman/AJOC Mid-August is the calm before the storm at Seward Ship's Drydock, said D] Whitman, vice president of the full service shipyard. Come September, the start of the busy nine- month season, employment at the shipyard can jump from 45 to 105 employees, Whitman said. The company offers expert, on time, on budget shipyard services to all types and sizes of marine industry vessels. Much emphasis is put on tourism in Seward, which has been down a bit this summer, as a major contributor to the economy of the Kenai Peninsula city, which has 2,600 residents. "Overall everyone is feeling the economic downturn a little bit," said Laura Cluberton, public relations and programs coordinator for the Seward Chamber of Commerce. Tourism itself "has been down, but it has not been as dramatic as maybe people were anticipating," she said. The local economy is also diversified by commercial fishing and processing, handling freight for oil and gas development, an Alaska Railroad Corp. coal export facility that supports Usibelli Mine Inc. with coal exports, the Alaska Vocational Technical Center, a state prison, the University of Alaska's Institute of Marine Sciences, and ship services and repairs provided by Seward Ship's Drydock and Ship's Chandlery. "A lot of time they book a year in advance," at the shipyard, said Whitman. "Tugs and barges and government contracts are the main thing. Some boats come in on Monday and leave on Friday, and generally 30 days is the maximum stay," he said. Clients range from owners of fishing boats and transportation industry vessels to the U.S. Coast Guard and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. 24 The employment varies with the work, but the job-count goes up all the time," said Whitman. "People are still coming to the state. You've got to get goods and services here." Although there are other repair and maintenance facilities for smaller vessels, the closest other Alaska shipyard is at Ketchikan, in Southeast Alaska, which makes Seward Ship's Drydock a popular choice for vessel operators in Southcentral Alaska. The facilities are approved by the Coast Guard and the American Bureau of Shipping Standards. Shipyard payroll exceeds $2 million annually, Whitman said. The company also spends some $1.5 million per year locally on goods and services, and about an equal amount elsewhere, he said. The range of services include fabrication, welding, hull and bottom systems, electrical, machine shop, hydraulics and mechanical. Despite the presence of the state's Alaska Vocational Technical Center's Alaska Maritime Training Center at Seward, Whitman said it is difficult to find employees with the shipyard experience when needed. "They teach welding and electric (at the vocational center), but it's a far different animal to weld a steel building than to fix a ship," he said. "They teach industrial work, which is close, but not the same." One of the most challenging jobs to come through the shipyard in recent years was the engineering and design involved in upgrading the state ferry Tustemena in the mid- 1990s, Whitman said. "We had to provide all the engineering and design. They (the state officials) pretty much knew what they wanted, but they didn't have details." The shipyard also provides maintenance and repair services to an average of three U.S. Coast Guard cutters a year. This summer the shipyard deployed some 18 workers to Kodiak for dockside repair of the cutter Munro. "We've had years when they (the workers) were all here, or all in Kodiak," Whitman said. Seward's Ship opened for business in 1973 in response to a growing need for vessel repair services close to fishing grounds. By 1974, the demand and the increasing workload led to construction of the current home for Seward Ship's Chandlery in the city's Leirer Industrial Park, for vessels under 60 feet. In 1979, Seward Ship's leased and rebuilt a 300-ton marine railway facility at Lowell Point, and operated that facility until 1985, when the company began drydocking and servicing vessels at the marine industrial center, utilizing the Syncro-Lift. In 1988, Seward Ship's leased space from the city of Seward at the marine industrial center, the present site of its drydock operations. On the web: www.sewardships.com Margaret Bauman can be reached at margie.bauman@alaska 25 Preserve America Community: Seward, AK Prese~~e ame~i~a ' Preserve America Community: is a national initiative in ; Seward, Alaska cooperation with the Advisory Council on Historic ceward, Alaska, (population 3,000) is named in honor of Preservation; the VWilliam H. Seward, the secretary of state who U. S. Departments of Defense, Interior, ' negotiated the purchase of Alaska from Russia in 1867. It Agriculture, was founded in 1903 by the Ballaine Brothers of the Alaska Commerce, Housing and Urban Central Railway as the ocean terminus for their proposed TD aneportation, and railway into the interior. Seward's setting on the ice-free Education; the port of Resurrection Bay has attracted settlement National Endowment for the throughout Alaska's history, from the prehistoric period Humanities; the through the eras of Russian rule, miners and trappers, gold President's Committee on the rush, railroad, territorial days, and World War II. Arts and Humanities; and the ' President's council Jesse Lee Home, on Environmental an orphanage for - ~'~ Quality. native children '~ from throughout the state, including many °'," orphaned by the tuberculosis epidemic, was located in Seward. At the Jesse Lee Home in 1927, a 13-year-old resident, Benny Benson, created the Alaska state flag. His -~ design and description of "8 stars of gold on a field of blue" won unanimously from a field of 142 entries. The Alaska Railroad, mining, fisheries and shipping have been the major forces in Seward's economic development. Today, Seward is a thriving town, in which the residents make their living through fishing, marine operations, tourism, a state technical training college, a maximum security prison, Alaska Sealife Center, and petroleum services. Seward is the location of Milepost 0 of the Iditarod National Historic Trail. The city of Seward, in conjunction with many 26 http://www.preserveamerica.gov/PAcommunity-s AK.html Page 1 of 2 8/3/2009 Preserve America Community: Seward, AK ~~~~ public and private partners, is celebrating the Iditarod National Historic Trai- Centennial. In February 2008, an event commemorating the beginning of the centennial a=~MTa ~ ~~~~~~~ a`' included a ceremony with Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin, who issued an Exe ti x I * ~ cu ve Proclamation in honor of the ~ ~~ ~""' ~~I °°y ~~ 4'~ Centennial. Iditarod Race Champion Mitch Seavey offered r dog sled rides. Other events included a presentation on the ~` ° rk"'~~ history of the trail, dog training, and historical re-enactments o of the construction of the trail. Events and venues ~ highlighted efforts to improve the trail, tell the rich stories of '~ its past, and encoura a the stewar 9 dship of the trail. The Seward Museum, operated by the Resurrection Bay Historical Society, explores the history of Seward. Special emphasis is placed on the Iditarod Dog Race and the early history of Seward. Each year, hundreds of students from Seward and across Alaska visit the Seward Museum and participate in museum programs. The Seward Historic Preservation Commission is involved in promoting preservation activities throughout Seward. Every May, for National Historic Preservation Month, the commission sponsors a trolley tour of nine National Register of Historic Places sites in Seward. For more information City of Seward: wwH-.cityofseward.net Seward Chamber of Commerce: www.sewardak.org Iditarod National Historic Trail: www. bl m.gov/ak/st/eNprog/sa/iditarod. html Posted August 3, 2009 Return to Top Page 2 of 2 http://www.preserveamerica.gov/PAcommunity-s 27 IAK.html 8/3/2009 .~i.i~`. .~t~r _'t_'I)t) l~irittSCatil~at!t_rll~ Ull `; vllt i~c:'dl~alallt!ll ;t~ a 1'Ct' ~'Cl ~ L '~Illt'Pll~_l t ~_il~S111t111iI-`.•~~:11]l~ illanl: Y~~U fiit~ :]~~ 111;11 `ii~tt i~V lr~ ~'Ctha(ll'~' !1111' w:tllull5 ail t'lla~.',c' ~trUl~ .'~>IillllUflll'~ i"lul~l~ t~~~~asi_II~c-tl Ol; ~C i!~t ll?.' 1111C1~it;lll _1:~1~'t'. alh~ Il 1': l~il'r_rll~!~I '>vUl \l~lUl~i al)l~ l~Cl~l~atlt?11 lllal ,,itr hi~~tr~l', ~,~ tip hc- u~~lt~•Ic1 .u~~l r,ur lulu! E' ',~ ui he• re°tli a ~~I ~'lc'~IIIC'IlT t~)~_~aliia allt~ ~ alp )71'l~~:Jt.~ u~ `.t'lll i (rllllilUllll\ :113th V't ~' ;1~~~)Irltt~~ 'trLll ac~li~-: ~'l7ic'17l_ l~a' -~ fll~'1 ICtill~ ~1 17cr ialll~' ~+t'~l?f~ ll~~ t~~!u4t titt~• ,,u~n11r~, tin tit~~ ,Ir~n.~tl! !; I t1n•ir lt~r~~r~. h:n-~i ~G'~?rl~.. ar!11 j~U;~•."1~t'f',tt~l•~'. ~\U'G~ 'Ult :Ill' U~;lllr? I~Itt~l. ';altll' t~U :~3111,'~~ 1~r }]d_'~1~ ti~lait' uli7 11151~t1~V \VIl~l ~iN~aA :i 111~1.'I'll.all4 :U1~~ L~It?`.t." ~rf tUl7}~!17l`\\ I3'<';l?~'ll,l,l~l~'Itllli? 1~i1t1C Ci.llllllli.lllltl'. '~'(~li ~tl'C `•l1~CilL!l~ll'.I]1flL.', l1U( ~i?~.lll~! y~_ ~i tai! ail' ~}ltrll'lll~' Dial t:U~'~I (r) U,ti ~las a Tt)~C f(r (37a1 111 ;]!,tj-ttt~~ ~i lr~ rtt_°~' luiiu-c :n~i,i ,~ t• c~tu ~I~_~ it 1~~,~ 1!~rtl~,r~nt~ uut' }~,t~.t. ~ ~iallj~: t+>L! :1'allt Il~~ :,~~ Ll~Lti A(il,i iltr_ i~il~ V'lAliJ ClrIll.Ulllill'.! t't_rl{!IliIl11)iill (t' l~Lll '`aaU~_i[1 '': )ICIIL:i`_'t'_ _lllll lUl t;~rtR t.'111~111~1:3>~!y '?:liil<1~1;t(Itrll lli I~1~' ~'I't'.~~~'1'•.i -~:Illt;l`l:.l (11\r:'1'al{i. ~ \i'i`~.~1 ~t~ll a~~ i~-iC h~~~.! ~uu! 11;~t~,'~ t?t~_~I! i~~~~ic, I~.~! ..~rur ct~ril!nu~~ti ~:t.t~t ~•~;:=. ~iti,.rt~•i ~.. 28 ,~ 29 u/[i/[UU9 1:11 PM October 2009 -_ Monde _ -- Tuesda Wednesda - -- 7:OOpm City Council Meeting 7:OOpm City Council Meeting - ---- _1.2 6• ncil Budget ~ Work Session October 2009 S M T W T F S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 910 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 November 2009 S M T W T F S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 2Z 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 -- -- __ - __~ ____._ October ~____ --__---_- - ___ -- _ _ -- &-- --__c ---~- 12:OOpm PACAB Meeting 112;OOpm Seward ,' { Community, llb,rary & Museum Building Gommitt` 7:30pm P&Z Meeting '~ -. _ -- - - -- - - - - - - .3' _ _ _ 14 - pm Council Budget 6:30pm Council Budget I Work Session ~~ Work Session -- -- -~~ _- --- - -_ - - - 21 - _ 6:30pm Council Budget 112:OOpm ~ACAB ~Nork - ~ 9:OOam Social Security Work Session I Session s' Rep 630pm~?&Z.Work~Sesslop 'i 6:30pmGauncill3udget"~ lNork Sesslpn (Upstairs; Conference 6:30pm Historic Preservation Meeting -- -- - -. , ~~ -- ?~ 6:30pm Council Budget Work Session Nanci Richey 2 8/27/2009 1:11 PM