Planning Commission
Regular MeetingCleveland, TN · March 19, 2024
Minutes
Minutes
CLEVELAND MUNICIPAL PLANNING COMMISSION
REGULAR MEETING
MARCH 19, 2024, 6:00 PM
CLEVELAND MUNICIPAL BUILDING 190 CHURCH STREET NE
The regular meeting of the Cleveland Municipal Planning Commission was called to
order by Tricia Pennington, Chairman, at 6:00 P.M.
Commissioners present included: Tricia Pennington, Blake Allison, Bill Estes, Tiffiani
Sherlin, Ben Berry, Alma Dotson, and Clarke Taylor arrived late.
Members absent included: Jamie Creekmore and Maryl Elliott
Staff present included: Robert Varnell, Planning Director, Erica Bevis, Planner II, Joel
Prince, Planner II/Codes Inspection Supervisor, and Darla Jenkins, Administrative
Coordinator
Legal Counsel present included: John Kimball, Attorney for the City of Cleveland.
Others present included: Tom Cate of Cate Brothers Development, Tony Richmond of
RSC, and Jay Critz.
The minutes of the February 20, 2024, regular meeting were presented for
approval.
Ben Berry made a motion to approve the February 20, 2024, minutes and Blake
Allison seconded the motion. A Vote of 6-0 passed the motion. Yes-6 No-0
Recused-0 Absent-3
In Public Hearings,
Tricia Pennington: Thank you. Next item is public hearings. We're opening a public
hearing for anyone who would like to speak to anything that's not on the agenda. Is
there anyone here that would like to speak? OK, we close the public hearing and move
to the next item. The consent agenda. Robert, would you tell us about those?
In the Consent Agenda,
a. Request by Thomas Taylor for approval of a preliminary plat for
property located at Hardwick Street NE (also described as Tax Map 050I
Group D Parcel 002.09) and located within the R-3 Multi-Family Zoning
District.
b. Request by Jay Critz for approval of a preliminary plat for a proposed
townhome development on property located at Parker Avenue (also
described as Tax Map 057G Group F Parcel 011.01) and located within
the R-2 Low-Density Single and Multi-Family Zoning District.
c. Request by Casey Mitchell and Charlie Reynolds for approval of a
preliminary plat for a proposed townhome development on property
located at Henderson Avenue (also described as Tax Map 042P Group A
Parcel 019.01) and located within the R-2 Low-Density Single and Multi-
Family Zoning District.
d. Request by Duane Goff for approval of a preliminary plat for a proposed
townhome development on property located on Ohio Avenue (also
described as Tax Map 049C Group B Parcel 020.00 and 021.00) and
located within the R-3 Low-Density Single and Multi-Family Zoning
District.
e. Request by Tom Cate for approval of a preliminary plat for property
located at North Lee Hwy (also described as a portion of Tax Map 034F
Group C Parcel 001.00 and 021.00 and a portion of Tax Map 034 Parcel
020.01) and located within the CH Highway Commercial Zoning District.
Robert Varnell: The first item is a request by Thomas Taylor, .3 Acres Star, three-zone
or 4-unit townhome. As you can see, it's kind of here. It's got the driveway. I think that
there is some outstanding labeling and items to be submitted for stormwater and
engineering as well as the fire hydrant location. And a few other comments that I'm sure
those are in the process of being taken care of.
The second item is a request by J Cruz, also .3 acres for a four-lot townhome. It's R2
zoning off of Smith Dr. You can see it here, it's 4 units and the only comment we had
was regarding the buffer. Otherwise, everything was met.
Next up is by Casey Mitchell on Henderson Ave. It's 5 proposed lots, one single-family
and four attached townhome units. And you can see it there, it's Henderson. That
whole section was actually called Sunset, but it's changed some time, but that area over
there. OK, you all should be familiar with this. It's coming around a few times and the
offer shown there no comments remain on that one.
The next item is by Dwayne Goff on Ohio Ave. .77. Acres for a three-unit townhome.
It's got a TDA easement. I know one of the comments is we're waiting on. Approval from
them for them to cross that easement with their driveway, parking, and stormwater also,
I believe has. Some items that need to be labeled on the flat.
Next item for Tom Cate is 8.5 acres 8 lots as well as a where a road location will be
included. It's a highway commercial, the Old Thompson College property. There are
some labeling comments. I'm sure that Tony (Richmond) is working on those as we
speak and or maybe it's already gotten all taken care of, but most of it's labeling items
that just need to be cleaned up. And then as far as the consent agenda, that is all. Any
questions on any of those? I'm happy to help.
Bill Estes: I move for approval based on staff comments. On each of them. Pending
staff comments, including TVA's.
Tricia Pennington: OK. Yeah. We have a motion to approve by Mr. Estes. Do we have a
second?
Ben Berry: I'll 2nd and also just to disclose, I'm involved in item D&E that I'll still vote.
Tricia Pennington: And we have a second by Mr. Barry.
Alma Dotson: Question, on Parker Street, have any of you said you talked about
stormwater? Let's say and I know there's some pretty big ditches over there and
everything is all the landowners? Or is there any accountability on their part?
Robert Varnell: Yeah. Storm Water did not have comments on this one remaining. So,
they must have addressed whatever issues they needed to in regard to. I believe that
the idea is that whatever water gets off the site today has to it can't increase and if
they've met that, then they'll approve it, and they have in our staff review queue. Yeah,
good question.
Bill Estes made a motion to approve the Consent Agenda pending staff
comments, including TVA. Ben Berry seconded the motion. A vote to
approve the motion was approved. Yes-6 No-0 Absent 2 Recused-1
Old Business
There was no Old Business
In New Business,
a. request by Palmetto Capital Group for approval of a site plan and
architectural renderings for a proposed development located on
Callen Lane NW (also described as Tax Map 034I Group F Parcel
009.00 and located within the PUD 13 Zoning District.
Pulled from agenda
b. request by Lynn Jones for consideration of a Plan of Service for
about 87.5 acres, more or less, for property located at the corner of
Michigan Avenue Rd and Wilkinson Rd and includes Tax Map 043
Parcel 021.00.
Pulled from agenda
c. request by Lynn Jones for consideration of a resolution to annex
about 87.5 acres, more or less, for property located at the corner of
Michigan Avenue Rd and Wilkinson Rd. and includes Tax Map 043
Parcel 021.00.
Pulled from agenda
d. request by Lynn Jones for consideration of an ordinance to zone
about 87.5 acres, more or less, for property located at the corner of
Michigan Avenue Rd. and Wilkinson Rd. from unincorporated
County to PUD 51 and includes Tax Map 043 Parcel 021.00.
Pulled from agenda
e. future Amendment to multiple sections of Article 7 Final Plat
Requirements and Article 8 Requirements for Townhouse
Subdivisions in the Cleveland TN Subdivision regulations concerning
the platting approval process and requirements for administrative
review as well as the process for submitting plats.
Tricia Pennington: There is no there is no old business. So, we move to the final topic,
future amendment to multiple sections of article seven, final plat requirements, and
Article 8 requirements for townhouse subdivisions in the Cleveland, TN Subdivision
regulations concerning the planning approval process and requirements for
administrative review. As well as the process for submitting plats.
Bill Estes: Robert, before you start, can you keep this make this really simple for me?
When I tried to put the pieces together, it wasn't.
Robert Varnell: Yes. So let me state now right now state law as it was written a long
time ago allows two lots or less to be administratively approved by staff, which means I
don't bring it to you. Last year, the state legislature expanded that availability to
increase the number of lots that staff can approve without it coming to the Planning
Commission, they said, in state law, if the legislative body gives the Planning
Commission authority to give me the authority to do this. OK so. Up to five lots without a
preliminary plat anything it could be staff approved you guys can say 4 you can say
three. Right now, it's two. So, what state law says now is that up to five staff can
approve as an administrative plan. OK, the 2nd caveat is where it gets a little more
interesting. If there is a plat that has up to 25 lots. The legislative body for the City of
Cleveland can grant the Planning Commission authority to let staff approve them if the
preliminary plat would come here first, so you would approve a preliminary plat. But
once you've approved that preliminary plat, if there are no drastic changes through civil
site review staff can administratively, approve them which goes up to 25 lots. OK, I'm
not saying. One thing we don't have to do today is to decide what that number is. What
I'm asking you to do today is to say we would like to recommend to the legislative body
of the City Council that they give us the authority to grant me that or me and my staff.
Ben Berry: It’s just going to go up and then back down? You'll see this again.
Robert Varnell: Yeah. You will see this at our next meeting, possibly depending on
timing. But because when we do this, I'll have several zoning changes and those are
dictated here. But because the ordinance itself needs to reflect what you guys have
given me the authority to do, whether it's townhomes because townhomes in the sub-
regs the townhome section requires that even 2 lots come to the Planning Commission.
So, there's a bunch of pieces moving with this. Yes, and I'm going to clean it all up
based on what you guys give me the authority if the legislative body gives you the
authority to give it.
Blake Allison: Can you touch on the benefits and why?
Robert Varnell: Yeah. So, number one, I think the five lot. I think that makes a great
deal of sense. In state law, 5 lots and below have always been considered a minor plat.
OK, a minor plat being that it's not impacting a great deal of land, whatever it may be,
it's five lots so.
Ben Berry: With no public Rd.
Robert Varnell: No extension of utility or no extension of public Rd. So, if it's just we're
using the existing Rd. we've got sewer water, so no infrastructure changes is
happening. When someone comes in and says I want to get these five lots done and
then I say OK, when the Planning Commission, let's say you come in next Wednesday,
will that put you all the way in June to go to the Planning Commission. OK, if you come
on Tuesday, you'll make the April meeting. So I'm sorry, April, May I got a month. So,
what the biggest benefit of this is? It reduces the time that our builders, developers,
whatever wait to sell a home that they've completed because oftentimes what we see is
we've got a house built. Our surveyors are out here working very diligently and hard, but
they have a pretty significant amount of work to do. They would get it to me on their time
and it wouldn't be at the mercy of the Planning Commission agenda at that point. Now
the 25 I think makes sense because you've seen the preliminary plat. You said you're
OK with it. If nothing's different, why are we looking at it again? If nothing is different.
Blake Allison: In the past, sorry to interject in the past, can we remember anything on a
final plat? That had anything of significant comments outside of buffering that was
already required in stormwater comments. Truly asking, I don’t
Alma Dotson: What was the other thing that we talked about? The footage on each
side?
Robert Varnell: Yeah, setbacks, there have been the only one I could think of is the
setbacks on one that was originally done as a cluster, but then they changed it and
wanted the same thing. It was kind of confusing.
Blake Allison: And if something is confusing you still have the ability to bring it here,
OK?
Robert Varnell: I would because if I'm not comfortable with what I'm seeing or making
that determination or it's changed, then I'm going to ask the Planning Commission to
either agree or disagree with what I'm saying.
Tony Richmond: On to that would be kind of like a very and some variance has got to
come.
Robert Varnell: That's right.
Alma Dotson: So, are we agreeing on a number tonight?
Robert Varnell: No, I mean no, I'm going to ask you tonight to start thinking about that.
What you're agreeing on tonight is that you're recommending the City Council to give
you the authority to say, Robert, we want to let you approve up to this many lots under
those certain criteria without coming back. Did I explain that well? Because it's
convoluted, but it's.
Ben Berry: It's absolutely a good thing. I mean you we see the design with the primary
plat alright and that's kind of before anything's done then they do a bunch of work and
the problems. Yes, the problems of the delays are so much bigger of a problem on the
back end and so if they've already done what they said they were going to do, there's
nothing really for us to do.
Robert Varnell: Yeah, and I get calls almost monthly from different builders or different
or even families. I'm trying to close on a house and they're telling me it's got to wait till
June 17th because of the Planning Commission. I said, well, it'll actually be the 18th
because by the time we have a Planning Commission. You can't get the Deed recorded
yet, so the plat.
Ben Berry: Yeah, it's a big deal for townhomes.
Blake Allison: The Realtor Association called.
Tony Richmond: It's actually four or five days because anyway I start.
Blake Allison: The Realtor Association called. They're in. They're big on this because of
their closings, and I'm sure they're calling you all the time, like you said.
Robert Varnell: What I don't think it does is take away the ability for this body to be
involved. I don't think it puts too much on my job, won't change heck well slightly. My
Planning Commission agendas will be lighter. With the plat-oriented stuff. So.
Bill Estes: I get the time frame; I get the five and 25. When you say you're going. If this
passes, you're going to clean it up is there. I know you can't cover all nuances that hit
your desk, but would you in the in? Bullet point what would come to here? What falls
under Robert? Because Robert won't always be there. Right? And so, if there's some
type of guidelines of what automatically falls under the staff and what certainly does not
certain like a variance has to come here, but it would be nice to have that clarified.
Robert Varnell: and I intend to do so. You know, I can't tell you exactly what I'll write
yet because I don't know. What you're going to tell me is that number I'm going to come
with a number and say
Bill Estes: This is what I'd recommend. Well, it's the number. I'm not talking about the
number I'm talking about what things don't fit. You know, three come to you, but there's
a road that is 2 feet short. Yeah, right. You know what, what? What falls? That's what.
I'm asking for.
Robert Varnell: That's interesting. So, what constitutes something that I should bring
back?
Bill Estes: In the city? Yeah, in the City Council, we have to go to Mr. Kimball a lot of
times. Is this a substantive change or a minor change between readings? You know,
and?
Robert Varnell: I think it made a major. OK, so when we ride our PUDS, let's use that as
example.
Bill Estes: We have made massive changes.
Robert Varnell: We have made massive changes most of the time they're a lot of them
have a 20% threshold number, which means if 20% of the acreage. 20% of the units or
20% of the road width is impacted. Then I must bring it back. That's considered a major
change. With this, I might error to go a little bit tighter than that.
Alma Dotson: Can I and so kind of explain just a little bit more in the preliminary then
you will have covered for us that this is the proper amount of land for the.
Robert Varnell: It will show you the lots lot widths, the road widths, the sidewalks, and
it'll show you the full acreage, the density. All that stuff is in the preliminary plan. The
final plat is just the recording mechanism that they take to the courthouse, yeah.
Alma Dotson: OK, OK.
Blake Allison: to be fair, not too long ago, you know, companies like us would take a
preliminary plat bond everything out, everything would be built done, people move or
about to close on houses. Before the final plats issue so technically. This vote can’t
close.
Robert Varnell: It's illegal to sell a home if it hasn't been signed as a final plat in the
neighborhood.
Bill Estes: So, Robert, I just asked that you try to put things down thinking about five
years, 10 years, 15 years. In the future.
Robert Varnell: You know, we'll go about it. 14 how about that 14?
Bill Estes: Fine, if that's. Well, I want it longer, Robert. I want it longer than 15 years.
You know if Robert’s not you know what I'm saying? And.
Robert Varnell: I do. I think I would like to calculate it. I think I would have to make sure
that I've got it, but I would probably say a 10% difference. Whether it's open space,
number of lots, road widths, road length, whatever it may be, I think that's probably out
where I would air. Do y'all have thoughts on that? Because I don't want to put a burden
on either myself or future staff alone. That's not what I'm trying to do here because we
share in this process. I am.
Bill Estes: Well, let me say this. Also, if you put it in place now, we can revisit it and
tweak it. If 10% is not 20, but let's I would rather.
Robert Varnell: Oh, absolutely. And most of the changes will be in sub-regs. So, this
body would actually have the authority to make those changes without anyone else
because of the city the only.
Bill Estes: That'll be clean.
Robert Varnell: …. caveat is eventually the legislative body could say we don't want
you to do that anymore. And then that would be a mess. Hopefully, I'm not here.
Ben Berry: Can this go to City Council as basically as is for them to permit us to do
something like this, and then we can come in and do and work on this?
Robert Varnell: Yes, it's going to the City Council. The documents won't change much
and I'm going to say I recommend the five and 25 with the idea that I'm going to include
that language in the sub. Brags about changes up to 10%. Just to get this going.
Require Planning Commission and you
Bill Estes: Know greater than 10%
Robert Varnell: Greater. Yeah, not less. So, you know, as you can see, it's not there.
There are some, it's pretty good what the legislature.
Ben Berry: That's pretty good.
Robert Varnell: Did this one well and I don't say that a whole lot. No, no variance
requests. You know, all this stuff. I mean it's going to be various. There are going to be.
Somewhere they have to come back. Things are going to change and here I'm going to
be getting the question now from the people as well. Does this constitute that 10%
change? You know, I mean that's what it will be, but that's OK.
Alma Dotson: Can you do greater than or equal? To 10.
Robert Varnell: 10.01.
Alma Dotson: I just like if it hits 10, don't like, don't go on that side. Go to that side, OK.
Robert Varnell: Yeah, I get it.
Bill Estes: He hasn't given anything to make a list either way, a list would be nice, you
know for background, right?
Robert Varnell: A list of what? Now I miss that.
Bill Estes: If you just list what definitely will not need to come to us and what definitely
has to
Robert Varnell: I don't know that I could make a list that would absolutely hit every Item.
Blake Allison: including but not limited to 10%.
Bill Estes: It gives a guideline to the builders, the developers, it's something you.
Blake Allison: That way you can point at something and be like hey this is in this list,
but then it's also the 10%. Yeah. Just trying to make those conversations easier.
Robert Varnell: It's kind of like I'm, yeah, my job description that says in all other cities,
duties as assigned I mean that's.
Blake Allison: That's right.
Robert Varnell: Trust me, that's my wife.
Ben Berry: I mean, I think this keeps business moving, this is what all larger
municipalities do anyway. You go to Hamilton County when they have their Planning
Commission meetings. It's a bunch of preliminary plats, but the final plats, you know,
they don't have to wait, don't have to wait on that schedule. They move along.
Robert Varnell: And we'll say no, no. And our staff has a really professional timely
process and oftentimes. If our surveyors knew that this wasn't going back to the
Planning Commission, they'd get those comments or whatever is addressed, and they'd
have it to us in three days and whatever six days or whatever it may be and get. You
know, somebody off their desk and on to the next one, and that's what I like to do as
well, get it off my desk and on to the next one.
Blake Allison: So move.
Alma Dotson: So, move.
Tricia Pennington: We have a motion for approval by Mr. Allison. A second by Miss
Dotson. Is there anyone who's attending who has questions or extra comments on this?
Tom Cate: That one comment, right, sit here and it is. It came about when the label was
when you took a single lot townhouse lot, and it got all the building was finished and you
had to redivide to a. Three or four. Unit, which made four lots. They're all finished, but
they just missed the cut-off and Planning Commission meeting. Now they've got to wait.
45 days to get a plat sign right now where most that's what we're trying to fix.
Robert Varnell: This is probably the largest item and correct me if I'm wrong, but I don't
think you can shoot those exact lines until the walls are up. Yeah.
Tony Richmond: See how the county? Hamilton County has gone to doing everything
upfront? So that puts a big burden on your house because 90% of the time we're going
back to move a lot line. For three inches. Yeah. Of which I think is just.
Robert Varnell: I mean, you're close to it.
Tom Cate: No. So, it is shortening that window as a builder development building went
and you missed the cut-off at noon on the 40. The delay to start closing on units
technically, if it's all their Staff, allowed to give his blessings. All right. Your driveways
are there. The landscaping, then sidewalks are there, walls are there, right?
Ben Berry: Yep.
Tony Richmond: Yeah, I've done. I've done a lot. I've done a lot on Monday night.
Driveway locations and house locations to get choosy. Yeah, and they pour them
Monday morning, I think waiting until Monday night just to survey. Also, I mean, I'm out
there dark.
Blake Allison: Appreciate you.
Tom Cate: $400,000. $250,000 houses a million dollars worth of property that can't
close.
Ben Berry: 45 Five days 8-15 hundred.
Tom Cate: For it's just somebody that you guys are going to look at the drawing. They
could even do the sewers there. The water there. The roads are there. That lot has
been there for 10 years. Really.
Tony Richmond: So now that puts it from a 45 day wait to an eighth day to the next to
the next review coming. Oh yeah, that changes the game.
Tom Cate: So even on an undeveloped lot. If you still have control of the infrastructure.
Approved with the utility company, water, sewer, and power is approved and signed off
on Brian Beck or the road department is in the engineering stuff's done. If it's just a 5 lot
development right? So, it’s fixing or helping with a lot of situations that allow the staff
that review it and recommend it approve.
Tricia Pennington: I'd like to thank you for looking at this 10-12 years ago, many times I
was told you just have to wait till next month and you've got property sitting there,
you've got buyers waiting.
Robert Varnell: Well, yeah, this last thing I'll say is we saw that the Regional Planning
Commission's had this and I can't dig in and think surely, they'd let us. It's got passed
last year in the legislature so, I don't know how many cities have caught on to that
across Tennessee, but I don't think as many as, but they're starting to and so I'm happy
we all.
Tricia Pennington: Thank you for looking at it. Anything else on this topic? OK. Are
you? Yes, we did already have the motion in the second. Darla, would you call the roll?
Blake Allison made the motion to recommend a future Amendment to multiple
sections of Article 7 Final Plat Requirements and Article 8 requirements for
Townhouse Subdivisions in the Cleveland TN subdivision regulations concerning
the platting approval process and requirements for administrative review as well
as the process for submitting plats, seconded by Alma Dotson. The motion
passed 7-0. 7- Yes 0 – No 2- Absent 0-Recused.
Chairman’s Report:
Tricia Pennington: The next is the Chairman's report and I do have an announcement
which I learned when I came in this evening. This will be Darla’s last meeting with us as
our secretary. So, I think she deserves a huge standing ovation. Thank you for all your
help with the planning. Commission. So, with that, thank you again, Darla, and we
adjourn at 6:27p.m.
Agenda
AGENDA
CLEVELAND MUNICIPAL PLANNING COMMISSION
REGULAR MEETING
TUESDAY, MARCH 19, 2024, 6:00 PM
CLEVELAND MUNICIPAL BUILDING 190 CHURCH STREET NE
Welcome and Roll Call of Members
1. Minutes
February 20, 2024
2. Public Hearings
3. Consent Agenda
a. request by Thomas Taylor for approval of a preliminary plat for property
located at Hardwick Street NE (also described as Tax Map 050I Group D
Parcel 002.09) and located within the R-3 Multi-Family Zoning District.
b. request by Jay Critz for approval of a preliminary plat for a proposed
townhome development on property located at Parker Avenue (also
described as Tax Map 057G Group F Parcel 011.01) and located within
the R-2 Low Density Single and Multi-Family Zoning District.
c. request by Casey Mitchell and Charlie Reynolds for approval of a
preliminary plat for a proposed townhome development on property
located at Henderson Avenue (also described as Tax Map 042P Group A
Parcel 019.01) and located within the R-2 Low Density Single and Multi-
Family Zoning District.
d. request by Duane Goff for approval of a preliminary plat for a proposed
townhome development on property located at Ohio Avenue (also
described as Tax Map 049C Group B Parcel 020.00 and 021.00) and
located within the R-3 Low Density Single and Multi-Family Zoning
District.
e. request by Tom Cate for approval of a preliminary plat for property
located at North Lee Hwy (also described as a portion of Tax Map 034F
Group C Parcel 001.00 and 021.00 and a portion of Tax Map 034 Parcel
020.01) and located within the CH Highway Commercial Zoning District.
4. Old Business
5. New Business
a. future Amendment to multiple sections of Article 7 Final Plat
Requirements and Article 8 Requirements for Townhouse Subdivisions in
the Cleveland TN Subdivision regulations concerning the platting
approval process and requirements for administrative review as well as
the process for submitting plats.
6. Chairman’s Report
7. Director’s Report
8. Adjourn
Minutes
CLEVELAND MUNICIPAL PLANNING COMMISSION
REGULAR MEETING
FEBRUARY 20, 2024, 6:00 PM
CLEVELAND MUNICIPAL BUILDING 190 CHURCH STREET NE
The regular meeting of the Cleveland Municipal Planning Commission was called to
order by Tricia Pennington, Chairman, at 6:00 P.M.
Commissioners present included: Tricia Pennington, Blake Allison, Bill Estes, Jamie
Creekmore, Tiffiani Sherlin, Maryl Elliott, Ben Berry, and Alma Dotson arrived late.
Members absent included: Clarke Taylor
Staff present included: Robert Varnell, Planning Director, Erica Bevis, Planner II, Joel
Prince, Planner II/Codes Inspection Supervisor, Kathy Andrews, Redevelopment
Coordinator, Taylor Koch, and Laura Duncan, MPO Billing Coordinator.
Legal Counsel present included: John Kimball, Attorney for the City of Cleveland.
Others present included: Hal Taylor of Cleveland City Schools, Tony Richmond, Emily
Wampler and Ryan Wampler.
The minutes of the November 21, 2023, regular meeting were presented for
approval.
Bill Estes made a motion to approve the November 21, 2023, minutes and Ben
Berry seconded the motion. A Vote of 7-0 passed the motion. Yes-7 No-0
Recused-0 Absent-2
The minutes of the December 16, 2023, special called meeting were
presented for approval.
Bill Estes made a motion to approve the December 16, 2023, minutes and Ben
Berry seconded the motion. A Vote of 7—0 passed the motion. Yes-7 No-0
Recused-0 Absent-2
The minutes of the January 23, 2024, special called meeting were presented
for approval.
Bill Estes made a motion to approve the January 23, 2024, minutes and Ben
Berry seconded the motion. A vote of 7-0 passed the motion. Yes-7 No-0
Recused-1
In Public Hearings,
The City of Cleveland held a public hearing on February 20, 2024, to request comments
from the planning commission and the public as it relates to the HUD CDBG 5-year
Consolidated Plan for FY 2024-2029 and the 2024-2025 Annual Action Plan.
Chairperson Pennington called the public hearing to order and introduced Cathy
Andrews, Redevelopment Coordinator for the City of Cleveland. Ms. Andrews explained
the CDBG program, and national objectives, and gave examples of past projects.
Alma Dotson inquired about pursuing economic development activities in the future.
Ben Berry discussed parking issues at the South Cleveland Community Center and
asked for more parking spots and for a sidewalk to be put on 14th street. Alma Dotson
agreed with Mr. Berry and stated that Sheppard Field, near the College Hill Recreation
Center, would also benefit from more parking spots. Mr. Berry also requested the
addition of more seating at the South Cleveland Community Center’s pool.
Tricia Pennington: We are going to open a public hearing for anyone who would like to
speak about something that is not on tonight's agenda. Is there anyone who would like
to speak? OK, there are no further public hearings. We'll close the public hearing now,
and move to the consent agenda, Robert.
In the Consent Agenda,
a. Request by Spears Holdings, LLC for approval of a preliminary plat for
property located at eh corner of Minnis Rd. and Michigan Avenue (also
described as a portion of Tax Map 050 Parcel 043.00) and located within
the PUD 37 Zoning District.
b. Request by Greg Calfee for approval of a preliminary plat for property
located at Raben Drive (also described as Tax Map 041F Group D Parcel
001.06) and located within the PUD 30 Zoning District.
Robert Varnell: Thank you. The consent agenda includes the Taylors Place
subdivision, the preliminary plat from PUD 37. Six lots for future townhome construction.
There were a few outstanding comments, but the primary issues are taken care of and
there are landscape plans. You can see it as well. One of the things we did, if you
remember when we heard this pod was get some extra right away at the corner of
Michigan Ave. to Minis Rd. which is going to be utilized for future construction by the
City of Cleveland. So that was a good thing you all did, and we did it together. And you
can see kind of where it is right there. There's a couple of culverts that need to be
labeled and that's primarily it. So, there's no questions on that one on.
The other item on the consent agenda is from PUD 30. It's two lots, Greg Calfee
development, for townhomes. Fairly straightforward, kind of goes back to the point that
we talked about at our December meeting about having to bring town home lots to the
List, 2 lots to the Planning Commission. That's actually written in our regs, but we'll get
to that later. There's a little bit of a landscaping comment to be addressed otherwise in
good shape, so there are no specific questions.
Bill Estes: I have one, it's on Raben Drive. What's the city going to do with the rest of
the road for Raben Drive?
Robert Varnell: That's an interesting question. You know we approved the PUD on the
opposite side of the road. That PUD had some infrastructure-related improvements, but
they didn't extend much further.
Bill Estes: I went and looked at it the other day.
Robert Varnell: Right, it stops at where you turn in and. You know, we've, I know it's
discussed that it's going to have to be improved getting back to those, I don't know
however many, I think there's some duplexes. Back there.
Bill Estes: There are some single-family homes.
Robert Varnell: Single-family as well, and so it's in the discussion to widen it on out
eventually.
Bill Estes: Could you just keep that on your radar? It needs to be done. Right now, all
this is going on. Let's just knock out that last few hundred feet. Absorb it into, we've got
a little more paving money this year to go ahead and absorb it in, it's not a heavy lift.
Robert Varnell: It's not a large distance.
Alma Dotson: Are these single-family dwellings?
Robert Varnell: They are townhomes, but they will be sold separately for individual
ownership, yes.
Bill Estes: They will sell better with Raben Drive finished.
Alma Dotson: Right, I just know it's going to storm because I’m agreeing with him, but I
agree we need to do something about the roads.
Robert Varnell: Yes. And I know it's in discussions. I'll just make sure it's brought back
up, so thank you for the comment. any other questions on the consent?
Bill Estes made a motion to approve the Consent Agenda pending staff
comments. Jamie Creekmore seconded the motion. A vote to approve the
motion was approved. Yes-8 No-0 Absent 2 Recused-0
Old Business
There was no Old Business
In New Business,
a. Request by Eldredge and O’Neal families for consideration of a Plan of
Service for about 91 acres, more or less, for property located at North
Lee Hwy and includes Tax Map 027 Parcels 042 and 027.50 and Tax Map
034 Parcels 025.02 and 025.06.
b. Request by the Eldredge and O’Neal families for consideration of a
resolution to annex about 91 acres, more or less, for property located at
North Lee Hwy and includes Tax Map 027 Parcels 042 and 027.5 and Tax
Map 034 Parcels 025.02 and 025.06
c. Request by Eldredge and O’Neal families for consideration of an
ordinance to zone about 102.7 acres, more or less for property located
at North Lee Hwy from unincorporated County and RA Residential
Agricultural to PUD and includes Tax Map 027 Parcels 042 and 027.50
and 025.06.
d. Request by Ryan Wampler for consideration of a Plan of Service for
about 17.5 acres, more or less for property located at Buchanan Road
and includes Tax Map 065 Parcels 040.00 and 044.00.
e. Request by Ryan Wampler for consideration of a resolution to annex
about 17.5 acres, more or less, for property located at Buchanan Road
and includes Tax Map 065 Parcels 040.00 and 044.00.
f. Request by Ryan Wampler for consideration of an ordinance to zone
about 17.5 acres more or less, for property located at Buchanan Road
from unincorporated County to PUD and includes Tax Map 065 Parcels
040.00 and 044.00.
Tricia Pennington: New business item A has been withdrawn. New business item B has
been withdrawn and item C has been withdrawn. So that leaves us with item D, Robert.
Robert Varnell: We've got annexation requests that will require a plan of service as well
as the zoning. This body makes the recommendation to the Council and then they take
it through that step-by-step process on each one. This is on Buchanan Rd. Tax map 65
040 044. It’s about 17.5 acres and their zoning request is for PUD for the construction of
single-family detached units with approximately 5 to 7000 square foot lots depending.
You can see the location here. This is Walmart on the South side, off Treasury Drive.
Buchanan Road runs in, you know, you kind of snake in that. I think it's Spectrum offices
right here. And we're coming back. And cities just a few blocks away off of 28th SE and
the 17.5 acres right there is incontiguous, so it will require a county service agreement.
Based on the plan of service that we're looking at there, you see the proposed site plan,
and the preliminary site plan that goes with the PUD, those are individual lots for single-
family construction. And an unopened alley, I believe it's unopened along there that
could be utilized as well. So as far as the annexation goes and the plan of service, I'll
group those together. You should have both of them. There was nothing within that
document that stood out to me as an issue. The city is a couple of blocks away. We'll
end up taking part on the 29th and possibly a fairly significant part of Buchanan Rd.
Those discussions will be hammered out between city officials and county officials over
the next month or so, but we likely will have it continuous that way in short order. But
the annexation is, at this point, for the parcel. The PUD zoning has some stipulations in
there about lot size and setbacks and things like that, but it mirrors a similar one we did
on Westland Drive, which is in a geographically similar area not too far away, just kind
of in regard to the types of construction, etc.
Alma Dotson: So, if the city line is a couple of blocks away. And you want to pull this
into the city, right?
Robert Varnell: That's correct. The request is for annexation.
Alma Dotson: So, would you adjacent to those two blocks?
Robert Varnell: We will not take any parcels, other private property in the road rights of
way will be absorbed between the city limits and this parcel, we don’t know which ones,
there will be multiple. We don't know exactly which ones yet. Most likely Buchanan and
29th. And that that in that way it's somewhat contiguous, but because it's incontiguous
at the moment, we go to the county and say we're going to serve it with police, fire,
sewer, water, you know, all that stuff, there is no agreement, because we're agreeing to
do everything. It's just something that we go to them and say bless it, you know pretty
much. And they have traditionally done so. So that's how that process works when it's
incontiguous like that, it would be separated. We have one off of Benton Pike that's
similar right at the bypass that does not connect to the city in any way. It's just out there
by itself, so this wouldn't be the only situation where it’s occurred.
Bill Estes: My question is Cleveland Utilities have seven, or eight years to provide
utilities? The developers are going to pay for it, will split the costs to speed it up?
Robert Varnell: That's the way those agreements work you know, if, Jamie, if you have
something to add after I run my mouth for a minute. But I have sat in those meetings
where you know, developers say yes, we are not waiting, we're going to develop this
next week. We'll pay you whatever and they come to that agreement. We pretty much
are just there for moral support, but they are typically apt to make that agreement pretty
quick as to offset any future costs down the road.
Bill Estes: So, the 200,000 is not a big deal to me?
Robert Varnell: It's fairly insignificant, especially considering some of the ones we've
seen in other places.
Jamie Creekmore: Historically, unless it's an enormous going underneath. Interstate,
whatever else, historically, the developer bears 100% of those costs if they want it
before.
Robert Varnell: 90% of the time. But in a few cases where there's been certain unique
situations.
Blake Allison: If the sewer opens up a corridor that's gonna be beneficial.
Robert Varnell: But as a city, we kind of let them get them. Them being Cleveland
utilities take the lead on how they want to deal with that. That's We know their process
and sit in with them.
Jamie Creekmore: I would just say I can't speak in depth to that, but what he's saying I
can confirm and what Blake is saying is true too.
Robert Varnell: So, these are three separate items. I think you know the representative
of the applicant might add a little bit to it, but any other questions for me, I'm happy to
answer.
Jamie Creekmore: I do have one quick question. This is a blanket and it's incontiguous
like this. Do we have difficulties with there being a delayed response for, like
emergencies and that sort of thing because people are not sure? I'm just curious, I'm
not against this, but I'm just curious.
Robert Varnell: Well, that's why I alluded to the fact that the roads specifically will be up
for discussion between the county and the city as well as the emergency 911. When we
do these annexations well before you get it, we've sent it to schools. We've sent it to
Cleveland Utilities, we've sent it to emergency 911, and the county gets it. We say this
is what's happening here. Tell us the complications when we put that into that plan
service. So, there have been instances, yes, where there's been a level of confusion.
But in most cases that gets ironed out pretty quick and if we take the roads when we do
these annexations, that helps them a lot because the 911 call is based on an address
and you know the only complications would be, you know, if it was Buchanan Rd. We
didn't have the parcels on each side. Then there's a question, but we have a lot of
mutual aid. You know, I would say agreements, but they're close to that anyway, so.
Somebody's going to be there, but yes, those discussions have taken place and that's
why we usually end up taking more of the roads.
Jamie Creekmore: OK. And I've seen that in plans. I'm glad that you guys do that, I just
don't know how much that really was an issue.
Robert Varnell: It plays, it plays a big part in the infrastructure that and then and you
know, future funding of road work and things like that. Yeah, yeah, good question.
Anything else for me?
Tricia Pennington: OK. Thank you. Robert, is there anyone here who would like to
speak to this?
Ben Berry: Yeah, Ben Berry. This is just on the PUD portion of it, so I guess when we
get to that vote, or I can do it now?
Robert Varnell: Go ahead and speak to it now.
Ben Berry: There are a couple of things that we emailed about. There's a correction on
the total number of units, it’s 300 in the packet, but it's just 90. Under miscellaneous
standards, 7C this is architecture number 1 the architecture requirement. Robert and I
talked about that being changed right now it says exterior facades, and front facades
should comprise of a minimum of 50% brick or stone. We talked about this on the
Westland Drive one last month and we changed that to just that the front facade would
be brick, stone, or fiber cement siding and then vinyl siding on the three sides, so you
know, this being in a similar area of town, hoping that it would be consistent of that.
And the last one, we didn't talk about. There's a question mark under 7B, item 2, this is
the open space requirement of the written into PUD’s open space. Community open
space should be usable, yet natural area community open space will comprise of 20%
of the total area. So, for this development, we didn't really have usable open space
dedicated. We do have storm water open space, but that’s not really considered usable.
We were seeing this as more just a straight R2 subdivision. Except the limited to single
family. So that would mean its single family, but it's standard R2 lot sizes, 50 feet width.
We didn’t reduce the lot width by 100-foot depth. Really, we're fine with the standard R2
setbacks. It might change that in here, but we're fine with the R2 setbacks. Really just
want this to be more along the lines of what normal zoning would require for R2, with
the limitation of taking out the multifamily part of it and having some architectural
standards added to it. So, we would like that removed if. If you think it's worthwhile. Or
at least changed. 20% is a lot of area.
Unknown: Is what, three 3.4 acres?
Ben Berry: Yeah, of usable space.
Blake Allison: That would be quite a large area. I agree with you in that sentiment there.
My question, I guess is why? I feel like we're a little bit in the weeds. Going into a PUD
like.
Ben Berry: Well, I think the first two things we agree on, they just made some changes
to our architectural requirements. One was a typo with the number of units. The
architecture I think the staff and I agree. If you guys agree with as well on that, and then
the other is, I didn't mention to Robert in advance of this meeting is the Community
open spaces.
Robert Varnell: And you know one thing with our existing R2 zoning that a lot of people
don't realize. Down the road, it allows for these homes to be divided into duplexes.
We've got 5000 square foot lots. That's something that when we have to go to a PUD
sometimes it shows the weakness within our straight-up zoning code. And it's
something that I had a meeting about just a few hours ago in a different part of town.
You know the goal is to build a nice neighborhood and so we look at it and we say the
best thing we can do is put it into a PUD. That way we protect it. Because R2,
everywhere else, we have ongoing issues there that we haven't dealt with yet. But I get
your point. I think the original request was for R2 and I said I’m putting it in a PUD that
was, but it may I know what you mean. It's like it's almost the same thing, but it's just
guaranteeing it or protecting the investment that the single-family homeowner’s making.
Blake Allison: Understand. As far as that 20% we need to look at that, that's way too
much. What are you proposing again?
Ben Berry: Nothing. You know that language comes from the cluster when you have an
R1, and you want to take 75-foot lots and make them 40 and in exchange you dedicate
20% of your land area.
Blake Allison: All right.
Ben Berry: We are more trying to present this as an R2. It's smaller homes, they don't
need 75-foot lots, they just need 50-foot lots and it's plenty of room. They'll have 10-foot
setbacks. Plus, on the sides, so we would just like that removed.
Bill Estes: 90 units, no open?
Ben Berry: It will have open space just inherent in the development just not a zoning
requirement. It would be a normal subdivision. So, every inch of length. So, if you go to
the concept plan there instead of public open space everyone's property lines are
shared, so you have your parcel, you have your backyard. You want to fence it in, you
fence it in, as opposed to community space that’s HOA maintained and open.
Blake Allison: Frankly, if you look at a lot of our other PUDs, it's no different.
Bill Estes: But you know it's sitting in a 1960’s, 70’s all around it, you know, when I think
about the neighborhood around it. I actually, drove the back way.
Ben Berry: It’s pretty consistent with especially Bow Street, 29th St. And that it feels like
it's similar. Similar density there.
Tricia Pennington: Any other questions or comments?
Blake Allison: Oh, when you go back to the you said the PUD, right? We need to have a
motion on the.
Bill Estes: Planning plan of Service 1st.
Tricia Pennington: We haven't had a motion.
Blake Allison: This one yet? Well, that's after the plan of service
Robert Varnell: Plan of service and then annexation.
Blake Allison made a motion to approve item d in New Business and Maryl Elliott
seconded the motion. A vote of 7-0 passed the motion. Yes-7 No-1 Recused-1.
Blake Allison made a motion to approve item e in New Business and Bill Estes
seconded the motion. A vote of 7-0 passed the motion. Yes-7 No-1 Recused-1.
Blake Allison made a motion to approve item f in new business with the change
from 300 units to 90 units, eliminating section 7B item 2 and changing 7C
number 1 requirements to front facade would be brick, stone, or fiber cement
siding and then vinyl siding on the three sides and Jamie Creekmore seconded
the motion.
Bill Estes: I just for the record for the minutes. I would ask that city staff keep this in
mind going forward as they put PUDs together. I understand R2 protecting it in a PUD
rather than going straight R2. Because we copied in the 20% from somewhere else, we
kind of looked back. You know it. I would rather this be sorted before it came to us. So,
I'm just asking that to be in the minutes for city staff going forward. Let's not run into this
again.
Robert Varnell: No, absolutely, yeah. And I think one thing with these. I don't think it's
wrong to ask for a small pocket park. One of the biggest priorities we look at is lowering
trip time for people to be able to use park space and things like that. It's not necessarily
a bad thing to ask for.
Blake Allison: 20% is steep though, Robert.
Robert Varnell: Oh, it's yeah. But it's also a common number.
Blake Allison: And a cluster I get, but in clusters you're in 4-5 acres. You're talking
about an acre or less, and I've looked at clusters to try to make it work somewhere in
the city, but the 20% usable space absolutely ruins the deal. When you're looking at 80
K an acre.
Robert Varnell: Yeah. And I'm not necessarily married to the number. I'm just saying
This is why we do it. It has A purpose.
Blake Allison: I think you could look at a 75 by 100 lot. You could have a phenomenal
open space, playground, etc. whatever, giving up 1 1/2 lots as opposed to 17 lots. Of
the of the 20% right, I think instead of a 20% maybe we start looking at in the concept
plan, just idea but each PUD is individual, right? So hey, you have all these 50-foot lots.
What if we did 75x100, 80 x 100 or whatever else? Show me a community space and
I'm open to that. I just look at the 20% and I’m like no. So, seeing the intent, I see where
you're coming from.
Robert Varnell: Yeah, no.
Bill Estes: I don't see this as I see this as somewhat tangential, but you put in the PUD
there's got to be like a place for a community bus stop for Cleveland City Schools.
Robert Varnell: Yeah, it typically we put that in, they like us to try, but I want them to
coordinate where these kids are getting on the bus, but where it makes sense to the
Bus driver.
Bill Estes: So, it makes sense right here. Can the bus come around? The bus has got
to come in somehow. So, where's the cluster box? Where's the bus stop? There's a nice
lot for community something. Or another you know.
Robert Varnell: Tied in with it, that's the intent.
Bill Estes: OK, well that would have been great up on the front end rather than trying
to piece it in here and trying to, you know, I'm not an architect, I'm not a developer, I'm
not a lot of things.
Robert Varnell: When you say better on the front end. What do you mean?
Bill Estes: That you negotiate that in the PUD before it ever comes to us. So, you know,
because a lot of what I'm sensing in the last year is there's communication up and
down. We're in the middle. So, we communicate with you guys and the staff, what you
guys ask us. “What do you want?” So, you know, you ask us, the City Council gives it
down. We give it up, we give it down. We're kind of a middleman. So, I see us giving. I
am giving as a member of the Planning Commission feedback to staff. 20% is probably
too much. I understand protecting it with the PUD makes perfect sense. There needs to
be something, and it could be sorted out before it ever gets to us.
Robert Varnell: 90% of the time it is.
Bill Estes: Yeah, well. Every month.
Ben Berry: This one issue is on me; I'll say that because I did not give it. We talked
about the number of units, we talked about architectural elevations, and I did not
mention this as an objection, it just kind of came up like yesterday. As far It couldn't be
met with 20% I kind of agree with what Blake was saying about as opposed to a land
area, you know, being a little bit more strategic about where that is, I mean 50 by 100-
foot lot could be utilized more than you know 3 acres behind in somebody's backyard,
right? The land area probably isn't as important as the location.
Bill Estes: You think about like a covered gazebo for a picnic table where you pick up
your mail where the bus stop is because kids don't want to stand in the rain. You know, I
see kids sitting in their parent’s cars or not even getting on the bus when it’s raining in
our neighborhood, you know. I’m just throwing this out 28 kids got off the bus. Is Hal still
here?
Hal Taylor: Yeah, I’m here.
Bill Estes: There you are. 28 kids got off the bus the other afternoon at Harrell and 8th.
28 off one bus, that's half a bus. You know, and I see them in the morning. There are
two buses that get them in the morning. I don't know how that works. I don't know how
you handle that Hal, but there was you know, 15 kids get on the bus, you know, the
other morning when I was out there at 6:15, 6:20. It would help to have those kinds of
things. And just think about it going forward.
Ben Berry: The first lot on the right in the curve that you enter from Buchanan, that is
probably not going to be built on.
Bill Estes: The bus has to turn around somewhere too, you know. Maybe if you design.
Yeah, I don't know. Yeah.
Ben Berry: It could be at the top of the hill?
Blake Allison: Since we're still in discussion, will the applicant be open in lieu of the 20%
to work with city staff to get us some sort of community space?
Ben Berry: We'll take one of the intent-wise, we’ll take one of the larger lots at the
intersections. They’re larger because they have bigger setbacks. Take one of the larger
lots at the intersection and make it a community space.
Bill Estes: Awesome. I like that better than the first one because the bus does need to
turn around.
Blake Allison: While we're on the subject clauses.
Several Voices talking.
Alma Dotson: Where does he want the bus to go?
Several Voices talking.
Alma Dotson: Where does he want the bus to go?
Bill Estes: I’ll let Mr. Taylor speak to that.
Robert Varnell: They figure that out. I mean, they may not even pull in the
neighborhood, that's going to be the question. That's why I say work it out with them
because I'm not going to dictate what the schools do.
Blake Allison: Right
Bill Estes: Yeah, that's Mr. Mr. Taylor's lease here.
Tricia Pennington: Would you like to speak, Mr. Taylor?
Bill Estes: I didn’t mean to put you on the spot.
Hal Taylor: No, actually since you asked, I would.
Tricia Pennington: OK, please come to the microphone so Darla can make sure it's all in
the minutes.
Hal Taylor: I appreciate you, Mr. Estes, saying that.
Tricia Pennington: Please introduce yourself.
Hal Taylor: I'm Hal Taylor. I'm the director of operations for Cleveland City Schools. I
handle buses and buildings. And I run the bus routes and so forth. I handle that
department. We do have issues with these, a lot of subdivisions come in. It takes a lot of
room to turn our bus around and turn our bus around safely, and we also have
regulations we follow. We have best practices, we follow. We don't do anything that we
haven't that hasn't been studied to death and we don't follow. But we do have problems.
Some of the grades. Some subdivisions make it dangerous to run buses, especially in
bad weather. The cul-de-sacs are often too small to turn the bus around, so we get
parents complaining because we're making their kids walk to the road, but it's also
unsafe to back a bus with 60 kids when it's pitch-black outside in the rain and you're
trying to back up in a subdivision. Some of these subdivisions are expensive
subdivisions. Benjamin Crest is one we have we don't go up into it because we've had
problems with buses sliding on that hill. So, I would be glad to work with y’all if that
would help. But we have a lot of places where we can't take school buses because we
can't get in there safely and out. And so that makes us make children walk, and
sometimes it can be good little ways so.
Bill Estes: Thank you. I don't know the answer to this, but these are things that we.
Robert Varnell: We have a lot of grades like steep grades. We have ridges, we have
valleys, and developing on them is going to occur. So that's why I say put the bus stop
pavilion covered area, if it's at the bottom of Benjamin Crest, then at least the kids who
are going down there with their parents have somewhere to know this is where I go to
get on the bus. And it's strictly just me saying, please work with them. I shouldn't have
to say it, but I do because otherwise, the expectation is that the bus is going by every
front door and then they can't do that.
Hal Talor: No, we don't have the time. It's not like television. There's no way we can
stop in front of every child's door, so it's just we have to set bus stops at certain areas.
We would never be able to pick all the kids up in the amount of time between the school
starting, especially with the shortage of bus drivers and equipment. Thank you for your
time. I appreciate y'all.
Tricia Pennington: Thank you for your input.
Blake Allison: And Robert, most every new subdivision now is a PUD, right? To give the
engineers more things to do, as a developer, we don't often think about that, so it's we
know that we have to do cluster mailboxes, they're federal. We know we have to do a
community space.
Robert Varnell: We’ve talked like we should coordinate that they should that's why the
language needs to be just put them together.
Blake Allison: Right. And there's no hard and fast rule for everything. But since PUDs
are so individualized, something to think about.
Robert Varnell: Yeah, no, it's a good idea.
Bill Estes: Last question, Mr. Berry, where will the sidewalks go on the cul-de-sac? Will
they be all on that South side of the main road on the outside?
Ben Berry: There’s only one cul-de-sac so they would come in and then they would
stop at the cul-de-sac. So, like, if you live in this house, you would walk out of your
driveway and get on it there.
Bill Estes: So, it will be on the on the outside of the ring?
Ben Berry: since there are only sidewalks on one side of the road it usually just stops at
where the cul-de-sac flares out.
Bill Estes: So, off the cul-de-sac on the rest of the development is it.
Ben Berry: We determined that what generally happens is you go around the outside
here and then there would be one crossing through here.
Bill Estes: And will there and the sidewalk going back out if you put the put it out on
Buchanan Rd. there would be a sidewalk to Buchanan Rd?
Ben Berry: Yeah, all the way. Yeah. So, they connect this side and then you pick a side
here to which wouldn't matter, and then pick a side here.
Alma Dotson: Did you say that property slopes up?
Robert Varnell: It does.
Alma Dotson: So, you probably want to make that bus stop or someplace down on the
other end, wouldn't you? It is something like Bill said, something to consider before we
do this in the future.
Blake Allison: All right. Can I take another crack at my motion, or do I need to take it? It
It's already been seconded.
Bill Estes: You've already made the motion.
Robert Varnell: Yeah. I think it's good. We just had a lot of discussion after the second.
Blake Allison: Right. We eliminated the 20%, but I'm trusting that you guys. Sounds
good. Alright, we got a. Second, can we call roll?
Tricia Pennington: Yes, we have a motion and a second.
The motion was approved 7-0. Yes-7 No-0 Recused-1
Tricia Pennington: All right, there is no chairman's report. Is there a director’s report?
Robert Varnell: Yeah, there is. But it's just real quick. The December meeting that
December's meeting I think it was maybe it was January, we talked about the townhome
ordinance, and I wanted to bring up a point. State law in regional planning. Which is not
what we are. We are a municipal Planning Commission, so there's different types of
planning commissions in Tennessee. There's regional, which means we actually have
the authority to approve things outside of city limits within a certain region. There are
probably other facets to it like legal stuff, but the Planning Commission can give staff the
power to approve final plats up to five lots. Or if there's a preliminary flat done up to 25
lots. OK, that's we don't qualify to be able to do that. Why, I don't know. You know that
that's the that's it's a legislative question to fix that problem. Some of it I can fix with our
ordinance. For instance, the two-lot thing I can get that cleaned up and we'll put it 4. But
I can't go more than 4. Actually, I'm not supposed to go more than 3. it's we are
constrained as a municipal Planning Commission more than other planning
commissions in the state. So, these are conversations we have to in turn go talk to our
legislators about and say fix this for us because it's slowing us down now, there's other
small things I can do with our internal ordinance about the process, but I'm not sure.
That will make it any cleaner because at the end of the day, I still have to come back
with these final plats by state law.
Ben Berry: You said you can you do because so four would be a quadplex and that
would check like that would solve almost every town home?
Robert Varnell: But I think we're governed; John is 2 or 3?
John Kimball: 2
Robert Varnell: So, the one that I had for Calfee, I didn't have to bring, I would not have
to bring if our ordinance, didn't require it, but any four-unit townhome I still have to bring
by state law, and you all have to approve it.
Blake Allison: I'll get home builders on it we'll draft a bill if you want to help write it.
Robert Varnell: Talk to Dan. It's already written. All we got to do is copy it from the
municipal or from the Regional Planning Commission and stick it in there.
Bill Estes: MTAS will help in that too, MTAS will support it.
Robert Varnell: So, I mean it, it's written, we just need them to and there's probably a
reason they only did, you know, whoever's a municipal Planning Commission in the
state or a regional apologize Collegedale is one, it's regional, why? Who knows. Just
wanted to kind of feed that to you. I'm still working on some changes that we can do
locally, but the biggest picture, the biggest problem is the state law. I can't circumvent
any of that without legislative help, so if you know a legislator, say something. That's all
I got.
Tricia Pennington: Thank you, Robert. Any other comments? Questions for tonight?
OK. Planning Commission is adjourned. At 6:55.
Agenda Staff Report
Case: SUB 2024-14 Taylor-Hardwick Street
Townhomes Preliminary Plat (see Appendix for case
materials)
March 19, 2024
City of Cleveland Municipal Planning Commission
Applicant: Thomas Taylor
Site Address: Hardwick Street
Tax Map: 050I D 002.09
Area: .30 Acres
Current Zone: R-3 High Density Single and Multi-Family
Request: Approval of preliminary Plat/site plan
Sewer/Water: Yes
Council District: District 5-Dale R. Hughes
PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT
1. Analysis
The preliminary plat shows a lot with a proposed 4-unit townhome that
will be developed utilizing standards for R-3 zoning and the townhome
requirements set forth in the Cleveland TN Subdivision Regulatins.
2. Staff Recommendation
APPROVE PENDING STAFF COMMENTS
The submitted version of the preliminary plat will meet the requirements of
the City of Cleveland Subdivision regulations and R-3 Zoning Ordinance
once comments are addressed.
Outstanding Comments
To be updated before the March 19th meeting.
Consent Agenda Staff Report
Case: SUB 2024-15 1008 Smith Drive
Townhomes Preliminary Plat (see Appendix for case
materials)
March 19, 2024
City of Cleveland Municipal Planning Commission
Applicant: Jay Critz
Site Address: 1008 Smith Drive
Tax Map: 057G F 001.01
Area: .30 Acres
Current Zone: R-2 Single Family Residential
Request: Approval of preliminary Plat
Sewer/Water: Yes
Council District: District 1-Marsha McKenzie
PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT
1. Analysis
The preliminary plat in question shows 4 proposed lots to be developed
utilizing standards for R-2 zoning and the townhome regulations set forth
in the Cleveland, Tn Subdivision Regulations.
2. Staff Recommendation
APPROVE PENDING STAFF COMMENTS
The submitted version of the preliminary plat will meet the requirements of
the City of Cleveland Subdivision regulations and the R-2 Zoning Ordinance
once comments are addressed.
Outstanding Comments
Buffering-Please remove the comment about a 10-foot buffer. The variance
is for plantings and the notarized document will suffice.
Agenda Staff Report
Case: SUB 2024-16 Henderson Place Townhomes
Preliminary Plat (see Appendix for case materials)
March 19, 2024
City of Cleveland Municipal Planning Commission
Applicant: Casey Mitchell
Site Address: Henderson Avenue
Tax Map: 042P A 019.01
Area: .46 Acres
Current Zone: R-2 Low Density Single and Multi-Family
Request: Approval of preliminary Plat
Sewer/Water: Yes
Council District: District 4-David May Jr.
PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT
1. Analysis
The preliminary plat in question shows 5 proposed lots (1 single family
detached unit and 4 single family attached units) to be developed using
the regulations outlined in R-2 zoning district and the townhome
regulations outlined in the Cleveland, TN Subdivision Regulations.
2. Staff Recommendation
APPROVE
The submitted version of the preliminary plat meets the requirements of the
City of Cleveland Subdivision regulations and the R-2 Zoning Ordinance
once comments are addressed.
Consent Agenda Staff Report
Case: SUB 2024-17 Ohio Avenue Townhomes
Preliminary Plat (see Appendix for case materials)
March 19, 2024
City of Cleveland Municipal Planning Commission
Applicant: Duane Goff
Site Address:
Tax Map: 041F D 001.06
Area: .77 Acres
Current Zone: R-3 High Density Single and Multi-Family
Request: Approval of preliminary Plat
Sewer/Water: Yes
Council District: District 5-Dale R. Hughes
PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT
1. Analysis
The preliminary plat in question shows the proposed development of a 3
unit townhome using R-3 zoning standards and the townhome
requirements set forth in the Cleveland, Tennessee Subdivision
regulations.
2. Staff Recommendation
APPROVE PENDING STAFF COMMENTS
The submitted version of the preliminary plat will meet the requirements of
the City of Cleveland Subdivision regulations and the R-3 Zoning Ordinance
once comments are addressed.
Outstanding Comments
Stormwater-Please submit an erosion control plan that shows silt fence,
construction exit, and other controls needed to prevent silt from leaving the
site and details.
Consent Agenda Staff Report
Case: SUB 2024-18 Northside Lots 4-8
Preliminary Plat (see Appendix for case materials)
February 20, 2024
City of Cleveland Municipal Planning Commission
Applicant: Tom Cate
Site Address: North Lee Hwy
Tax Map: 034F-E-001.00 (part)
034 020.01 (part)
Area: 8.5 Acres
Current Zone: CH Highway Commercial
Request: Approval of preliminary Plat
Sewer/Water: Yes
Council District: District 5-Dale R. Hughes
PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT
1. Analysis
The preliminary plat in question shows 8 lots and a proposed road. The
lots are to be subdivided based on the CH Highway Commercial zoning
district requirements.
2. Staff Recommendation
APPROVE PENDING STAFF COMMENTS
The submitted version of the preliminary plat will meet the requirements of
the City of Cleveland Subdivision regulations and the CH Zoning Ordinance
once comments are addressed.
Outstanding Comments
Engineering- Show an approved street turn around ending on the
preliminary plat and the site plan.
Show the street cross section on the preliminary plat.
Submit an engineered subdivision development plan that
includes proposed drainage infrastructure along the
roadway.
For road construction, the plan should include the
following for existing pavement surface to be accepted as
a City Street (see full comment sheet).
Planning- Shoe setbacks for existing structure which are to remain.
Are lots 1 and 2 actually just one lot? Verify
zoning…should be all CH.
CU Electric- Please show existing electric utility lines on the plat to
determine if easements are needed.
Stormwater- Please change “30’ undisturbed stream buffer” to “30’
undisturbed stream buffer measured from top of bank.”
Please provide a 30’ undisturbed buffer on the drainage
feature to the east side or provide a hydrologic
determination and concurrence letter for that feature.
Staff Report
Case: ZON2024-11 Subdivision Regulations
Amendment (see Appendix for case materials)
March 19, 2024
City of Cleveland Municipal Planning Commission
Applicant: City of Cleveland
Request: Future Amendment to multiple sections of Article 7
Final Plat Requirements and Article 8 Requirements
for Townhouse Subdivisions in the Cleveland TN
Subdivision regulations concerning the platting
approval process and requirements for administrative
review as well as the process for submitting plats.
PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT
1. Analysis
T.C.A. 13-4.302 includes the following language:
(1) A municipal planning commission may delegate the responsibility for
approval of a subdivision plat to the planning staff of the municipal planning
commission by a majority vote of the municipal planning commission that is
taken at a public meeting after being placed on the municipal planning
commission's meeting agenda and notice being provided as required for other
matters before the municipal planning commission.
(2) This delegation may only include subdivision plats that include:
(A) No more than twenty-five (25) lots and only if the development received
preliminary plan approval through the municipal planning commission; or
(B) No more than five (5) lots if the development did not require preliminary
plan approval through the municipal planning commission; provided, that:
(i) The subdivision complies with such regulations governing a subdivision of
land as adopted by the municipal planning commission pursuant to § 13-4-
303;
(ii) No request for a variance from such regulations has been requested; and
(iii) A division of land requiring new road or utility construction is not approved
by the planning staff under this subsection (d) unless the plan received
preliminary approval by the municipal planning commission.
(3) A municipal planning commission shall not delegate to its planning staff the
authority to preliminarily approve, finalize approval of, or certify a subdivision
plat, regardless of the number of lots proposed for the subdivision plan,
consistent with the parameters of this section, unless the municipal legislative
body approves such delegation by a majority vote of the legislative body.
The City Council must approve the action before the Planning Commission can
make a final decision on the number of lots to be administratively approved
under the criteria listed above. The Planning Commission will need to make a
recommendation to the City Council to give them the authority to delegate
these tasks.
2. Staff Recommendation
APPROVE
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