Planning Commission

PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES July 10, 2024 6:30 PM Regular Meeting You may view and listen to the meeting in its entirety by going to the Planning Commission page on the City’s website: https://www.regionalwebtv.com/fredpc The agenda, staff report and associated documents are also available on the Planning Commission page: https://www.fredericksburgva.gov/241/Planning-Commission MEMBERS CITY STAFF David Durham, Chairman Chuck Johnston, Director Susanna Finn, Vice-Chairman Mike Craig, Principal Planner Mary-Margaret Marshall, Secretary Kelly Machen, Zoning Administrator Dugan Caswell Tanagra Cafferky, Administrative Assistant Kenneth Gantt Todd Brown, Director of Parks and Adam Lynch Recreation Carey Whitehead 1. CALL TO ORDER [00:01:11] Chairman Durham called the meeting to order at 6:30 p.m. in Council Chambers and explained meeting procedures for the public. Members of the public were invited to attend or access this meeting by public access television Cox Channel 84, Verizon Channel 42, or online at https://www.regionalwebtv.com/fredpc. 2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE 3. DETERMINATION OF A QUORUM [00:04:21] There were seven members in chambers in attendance at the meeting at the call to order. 4. APPROVAL OF AGENDA [00:04:41] Mr. Durham recommended item 8. B. Jarrell Properties be heard before item 8. A. Jeremiah Community. Ms. Marshall motioned to move agenda items 8. B. to 8. A. and 8. A. to 8. B. and to approve the agenda, Mr. Gantt seconded. Motion passed 7-0. 5. DISCUSSION OF POTENTIAL POLICIES, ORDINANCES, OR APPLICATIONS [00:06:00] A. Parks and Recreation Master Plan (Attachment) Todd Brown presented an update of the Parks and Recreation master plan for Alum Spring Park and Old Mill Park with an emphasis on Ficklen Island. The presentation included an overview of the plan process, the unique challenges of each park, environmental sensitivity, access patterns, potential improvements, and phasing. Discussion included questions on access, parcel ownership, phasing, capital improvements, programming, historic resources, and the River. B. CIP Committee Appointments and Commencement of FY25 CIP Review [00:39:26] Chair Durham appointed Ms. Marshall, Mr. Caswell, and Ms. Finn to serve on the Planning Commission’s CIP Committee. 6. DECLARATION OF CONFLICTS OF INTEREST OR DISCLOSURES OF CONTACT None. 7. OLD BUSINESS None. 8. PUBLIC HEARING – New B. Special Use Permit FY24-03 - Jarrell Properties Inc. proposes to update a Special Use Permit for a drive-through, to be used by a financial institution in the Cowan Station Development, originally approved by City Council on June 28, 2022. (Attachment) [00:41:43] Kelly Machen, Zoning Administrator, presented the application for a drive through use at Cowan Station. The request was previously approved, but there was a timing condition that the use had to commence within twenty-four months of that approval. The request was to extend that timeline. Discussion included the access pattern and existing paper right-of-way in Cowan Station. Jeh Hicks representing Jarrell Properties presented the application. Discussion included pedestrian facilities, amending the existing special use permit, the status of the reconstruction of Olde William Street, the type of drive through facilities proposed, and the drive through arrangement. Mr. Durham opened the public hearing to the public for public comment. Sarah Artin 1418 Parcel Street, Fredericksburg, VA 22401 spoke about canopy trees and electrical facilities in the area. Bea Paoluci, 1500 Caroline Street, Fredericksburg, VA 22401 spoke about the status of Olde William Street. Mr. Durham closed the public hearing. After discussion, Ms. Whitehead motioned for approval of the SUP with the recommended conditions and Mr. Lynch seconded the motion. The motion carried 7-0.  A. Multiple Applications – Jeremiah Community - Micah Ecumenical Ministries, Virginia Supportive Housing, and Mary Washington Healthcare propose a Rezoning from R-2 to PD-R, a Special Use Permit for institutional housing, and a Vacation of right-of-way. Proposed uses include 189-units consisting of an 80-unit building and 109 units arranged in single or attached dwellings with three community buildings, a church, and a medical clinic. (Attachments) [01:03:46] Mr. Johnston provided some preliminary comments on the status of the application. The review and hearing were to evaluate the proposal. Due to the nature of the proposal, interim review makes sense. The applicant had submitted revisions in response to comments earlier in the day and those submissions that appear to address many of the issues identified will be reviewed at a subsequent hearing. This interim approach is being used due to the unique nature of the proposal. Ms. Machen presented the application, which includes a rezoning request from Residential 2 to Planned Development-Residential, a special use permit for the proposed institutional housing use, and a vacation of right-of-way for a portion of a paper Roffman Road right-of-way. The presentation included descriptions of the proposed use, review timelines, the infrastructure plan for the project, its compliance to the small area plan, the use of planned development zoning, protection of environmental features, and modifications to general development standards. The staff recommendation was to defer the application to review the proposed revisions. Discussion with the Planning Commission included vehicular access, the proposed right-of-way width, the approval of conditional zoning, Wicklow Drive, the amount of housing proposed, the environmental features on the site, the transportation analysis completed with the project, the location of the proposed uses on the site, improvements to Roffman Road, how the project compares to other residential projects proposed in the City, fair housing and occupancy of the proposed units, alternative vehicles and bicycle storage, and emergency access. Charlie Payne, representing the applicant, presented the project on behalf of Micah Ministries, Virginia Supportive Housing Authority, and Mary Washington Healthcare. Megan Cotter of Micah Ministries also presented. The presentation included the evolution of Micah’s mission, community partnerships, a review of community meetings and outreach, how the housing proposal reduces community harm, the technical aspects of the proposal such as zoning, acreage, and traffic, the project layout, the types of units, and support services accompanying the use. Discussion with the Planning Commission included the use and location of a memorial garden, the status of the proposed proffers, supportive services, the definition of homelessness, regional and national homelessness, downtown operations of the existing Micah facility, the status of the recreational trails adjacent to the project, and bicycle facilities. Mr. Durham opened the public hearing to the public for public comment. Farheen Azam, 1014 Wicklow Drive, Fredericksburg Va 22401 spoke about the vacant parcel adjacent to her townhome and the conversion of the stub of Roffman Road into public access. Bryan Stelmok, 109 Twin Lakes Drive, Fredericksburg Va 22401 is the president of the Central Park Townhomes Home Owners Association. Mr. Stelmok spoke about the concentration of poor people in the area, community response, Roffman Road, and a Memorandum of Understanding for the project. Megan Samples, 1003 Emancipation Highway, Fredericksburg Va 22401 spoke about national affordable housing and homelessness, Fredericksburg Main Street, building safe spaces for the community, and ending chronic homelessness. Anne Kloeckner, Legal Aid Works, Fredericksburg Va 22401 spoke about supporting the project, community partnerships, and providing low-income housing. Bob Podlesny, 310 Frederick Street, Fredericksburg Va 22401 spoke about Micah Ministries. Joe Wickens, Rappahannock Area Community Services Board, spoke about mental health, substance abuse, case management, support services, Micah Ministries, and support of the Jeremiah Community project. Regis Kenny, 1130 Honor Bridge Farm Court, Spotsylvania 22551 spoke about the need to work on homeless issues and completing the Jeremiah project. Ryguy Mau Mohammed, 808 William Street, Fredericksburg Va 22401 spoke about supporting the Jeremiah project, ESG, and rent increases. Pat Holland, 2408 Pittston Road, Spotsylvania Va 22405 spoke about the senior population and homelessness. Anne Blosser, 19 Pawnee Drive, Fredericksburg Va 22401 spoke about Micah Ministries, homeless people in the community, and religious service. Bill Botts, 19 Winterberry drive, Stafford Va 22405 spoke about Micah Ministries, community service, building affordable housing, and housing and the courts. Lisa Eckhart, 1250 Barefoot Court, Spotsylvania Va 22551 spoke about Micah Ministries. Brooks Kuykendall, 1216 Payne Street, Fredericksburg Va 22401 spoke about homelessness, Micah Ministries, and supporting the Jeremiah Community. Joe Hensley, 801 Mortimer Avenue, Fredericksburg Va 22401 spoke about the comprehensive plan, Micah Ministries, religious service, and support for the Jeremiah Community. Brian Wreck, 309 Pitt Street, Fredericksburg Va 22401 spoke on behalf of the Commonwealth Attorney’s office in support of the Jeremiah Community. Brittany Dillard, 1406 Caroline Street, Fredericksburg Va 22401 spoke about Micah Ministries and homelessness. Michael Kearney, 7718 Denton Circle, Fredericksburg Va 22401 spoke about the Jeremiah Community meeting City needs. Florence Ritterhoff, 913 Mortimer Avenue, Fredericksburg Va 22401 spoke about religious service, Micah Ministries, and support for the Jeremiah Community. Daniel Luck, 1512 Princess Anne Street, Fredericksburg Va 22401 spoke about homelessness, recovery, and Micah Ministries. Peg Phillips, 113 North Shadetree Lane, Spotsylvania Va 22551 spoke about Micah Ministries and neighborhood support. Jevon Kirby, 7006 Lombard Lane, Spotsylvania Va 22407 spoke about a relative experiencing homelessness and supporting the Jeremiah Community. Dr. Darren Steiner, 10409 Chesterwood, Spotsylvania Va 22553 spoke on behalf of Fredericksburg Christian Health Center in support of the Jeremiah Community. Clay Murray, 1118 Marshall Place, Stafford Va 22405 spoke about Micah Ministries and affordable housing. Trish Vaugn, 9710 Balls Bluff Drive, Spotsylvania Va 22407 spoke about the food pantry at Fredericksburg United Methodist Church and support for the Jeremiah Community. Xavier Richardson, Mary Washington Healthcare, spoke about the partnership between Mary Washington Healthcare and Micah Ministries. Mr. Durham requested for the written letters to be read into the record. Craig Graziano, 1603 Charles Street wrote about supporting affordable and supportive housing in the City. Ryan Mahaffey, Commonwealth Attorney, wrote about homelessness and the court system and offered support for the Jeremiah Community. Lynn and Ernest Ackerman, 1300 College Avenue, Fredericksburg Va 22401 wrote in support of the Jeremiah Community and its pairing of supportive services and innovative spaces with the proposed housing. Elizabeth Humphreys, Commonwealth Attorney, wrote in support of the Jeremiah Community addressing homelessness and the court system. Leslie Martin, 179 Long Street, Fredericksburg Va 22401 wrote about community in addition to housing in support of the Jeremiah Community. Lashawn Boyd Amos, Rappahannock Regional Jail, Community Based Probation Officer wrote in support of the Jeremiah Community to provide stable housing especially for vulnerable people who are in the probationary system. Rachel Beasley, 207 Riverview Drive, Stafford Va 22405 wrote about Micah Ministries and supporting the Jeremiah Community. Justin White, Spotsylvania Behavioral Health Docket Team, Rappahannock Regional Jail wrote in support of the Jeremiah Community. Anton Downs, Community Based Probation Program Manager, Rappahannock Regional Jail wrote in support of the Jeremiah Community. Steve Cox, CEO of Rappahannock Goodwill Industries wrote in support of the Jeremiah Community. Anne Barker, Rappahannock Regional Jail wrote in support of the Jeremiah Community. Karen Yang, Director of Mobile Loaves and Fishes, Haug Eye Road, Austin Texas wrote about Austin’s experience with similar projects to combat chronic homelessness. Tricia Deaton, 102 Matthew Court, Stafford Va 22554 wrote in support of the Jeremiah Community. Chair Durham continued the public hearing to the next meeting. Planning Commission then discussed the project with the applicant. Discussion included resident support service providers, community engagement efforts, Roffman Road, buffering, vehicular access, emergency services, regional homelessness, and the particular site selection in the City. C. Comprehensive Plan FY24-03 - The City of Fredericksburg proposes to repeal and replace Comprehensive Plan Chapter 2: Fredericksburg Today: A Community Profile, which was originally adopted in 2015. [04:47:45] (Attachment) Mr. Craig presented the update to Chapter 2, which is the demographic and economic profile of the City contained in the Comprehensive Plan. The update is a first step in the full update of the Comprehensive Plan that is to follow. The presentation included demographic data, household and housing data, and economic data. The study utilized information from the Fredericksburg Area Association of Realtor’s Housing Gap Analysis. The staff recommendation was to recommend approval of Chapter 2 to the City Council. Planning Commission discussion included the timeframe for the broader Comprehensive Plan update, total population vs. population density in the mapping, housing information, income levels compared to housing, comparable communities, Mr. Durham opened the public hearing to the public for public comment. Denise Malczewski, 220 Princess Anne Street, Fredericksburg Va 22401 spoke about the demographic data presented in Chapter 2, self-driving cars, and some of the other future trends mentioned in the supplementary information provided with the report. There was no electronically submitted comment. Mr. Durham closed the public hearing. Mr. Lynch made a motion to recommend approval of Chapter 2 with the revised section on school data, eliminating figure six, seven, and table eleven stating that the school enrollment projection should be considered as part of the ongoing updates to the Capital Impact Study, replacing total population numbers with population density on map two, and including a chart of household income distribution in the City, as well as improvements in the sentence structure of the last word or sentence in the document. Mr. Caswell seconded the motion. The motion passed 7-0. 9. OTHER BUSINESS None. 10. GENERAL PUBLIC COMMENT [05:27:01] Mr. Durham opened the floor to the public for public comment. Sue Sargeant, 1318 William Street, Fredericksburg Va 22401 spoke about the Mary’s Landing development. There was no electronically submitted comment. 11. ADOPTION OF MINUTES None. 12. PLANNING COMMISSIONERS COMMENTS A. Chairman Comments No comments. A. Commissioner Comments  Jeremiah Community Rezoning Special Use Permit Vacation of right-of-way Planning Commission July 10, 2024 Location Applicants: Micah Ecumenical Ministries Virginia Supportive Housing Mary Washington Healthcare Issue • Shall the Planning Commission recommend to City Council approval of the proposed rezoning of 25.92 acres from the R-2 Residential District to Planned Development-Residential (PD-R)? • Shall the Planning Commission recommend to City Council approval of the proposed Special Use Permit (SUP) for institutional housing? • Shall the Planning Commission determine that the proposed 1.289-acre right-of-way vacation is in conformance with the Comprehensive Plan (in accordance with Virginia Code §15.2-2232) and recommend to City Council approval of the proposed vacation of an unbuilt portion of right- of-way connecting Roffman Road and Bakersfield Lane? Recommendation • Review the proposed project for consideration • Open a public hearing on the request • Defer action to provide time for the applicant to address comments • Planning Commission has until October 9 meeting to make a decision on the Rezoning and SUP • Planning Commission has until September 11 to decide on the ROW vacation • Planning Commission can request extension from City Council to match Rezoning/SUP timeline, to be considered at their August 27th meeting Proposed Uses • 189-unit institutional housing project • 109 Institutional Housing units using single-unit and two-unit design • 80 Institutional Housing units within a multi-unit building design • Accessory community buildings for use by residents and staff: • a multi-purpose/flexible gathering space, a computer lab, an exercise room, full-service kitchen, office spaces, case management and property management facilities, a small laundry room, and similar supportive uses • training center • chapel and accompanying memorial garden • maker’s space for teaching and supporting trade development • Medical & Dental Clinic May 22nd GDP Comprehensive Plan Zoning Comprehensive Plan Chapter 7 – Residential neighborhoods/housing • Considers special needs and homeless populations • Goals for affordable housing, enhanced connections, and a variety of housing Area 2 Small Area Plan • West side of project area contains large areas of T-1 Open Space due to existing steep slopes, wetlands, resource protection areas, and the tree canopy that connects them. • Project focused on eastern side within T-3 Sub-Urban Transect Comprehensive Plan Area 2 Small Area Plan • Includes Roffman Road connection to Wicklow Drive using existing unimproved right-of-way • Applicant proposes to use area for community buildings and medical office • Road connection should remain available in the event that the Jeremiah property is used for something other than Institutional Housing Roffman Road • Applicants needs to show compliance with Comprehensive Plan (§15.2-2232): • Comprehensive Plan Amendment to remove Roffman Road connection, • Shift the right-of-way, or • Provide proffer or other option that addresses the Comprehensive Plan • Roffman Road improvements to bring up to city standard: • Ensure 22’ paved width (mostly there) • Street lighting (some existing) • Milling/resurfacing road • Fill gaps in sidewalk Unified Development Ordinance • PUDs originally developed to provide mechanism for unique developments • Modifications of city code requested which are related to the institutional housing use • Project reviewed at 2 levels: • Code compliance for traditional projects • Standards to ensure a safe/healthy environment Access and Transportation • Parking requirements met Sidewalk • Residents expected to use Connection transit • FXBGO Bus Stop access needed on site (verify turn access) • Sidewalk connections to public roads and fill in gaps on Roffman Road Bus Stop • Need Bicycle storage areas • Need for Golf Cart storage? Interconnections • Spine connection needed for trash, transit, public safety, and other service vehicles  Verify 150’ distance Complete Streets • Typical is 50’ road right- of-way, with curb, gutter, sidewalk, street trees, lighting • 12’ wide paved with 4’ Pedestrian gravel shoulders & trees Connection along some portions needed proposed • 20’ paved road needed • 5’ trails proposed (material needs to be good for emergency personal) • 150’ max length to access buildings needed • Traditional block pattern not proposed • Pedestrian connections needed Environmental Pump Features Station Access • Need 50 foot buffer around stream (slopes and canopy) • Remove wetlands from disturbance area except road • Provide access to pump stations • Address existing stormwater facitlity Specimen Trees • Should be protected where possible Phasing • Project provides housing for a vulnerable population • Project pairs housing with community facilities and support services • Phasing Plan needed for community facilities to ensure services provided for residents • Phasing Plan needed for southern portion of the project area to address Roffman Road access improvements Lot Orientation/Dimensions • Standard subdivisions require road frontage, minimum lot widths and ratios, and corresponding setbacks • Institutional housing units are not on individual lots owned by residents • Parcels may be requested for the Virginia Supportive Housing (80-unit building), Micah (109 single/double units), the medical office, and residual R-2 tract (not to be rezoned) • Modifications to UDO are expected for the parcels • Parcels will need to be shown on GDP & included in the rezoning Other Technical Comments • Should be able to full address • Proffer language regarding uses, • Open space designations, • Church parking, • Building height, • Building design, • Boundary information, • Land restrictions, • Existing/proposed utility information and capacity, • Traffic distribution, • Road cross sections, and • Refuse locations Conclusion & Staff Recommendation • Review the proposed project for consideration • Open a public hearing on the request • Defer action to provide time for the applicant to address comments (application resubmitted today) • Planning Commission should request City Council grant an extension to the vacation of right-of-way request to match the timeline required for the rezoning and SUP (September 11 vs October 9) Questions? Planning Commission July 10, 2024 Jeremiah Community City of Fredericksburg ZMA2404-0002 & SUP2404-0005 Application Overview • Property consists of approximately 31.743 acres. • Located along Wicklow Drive at GPIN 7860-90-3994. • Requesting to be rezoned from R-2 to PD-R. • Requesting a special use permit to allow for Institutional Housing. • Project will include 109 single or two unit design, 80 multi–unit design, community center, health center, training center, chapel, maker’s space, and accessory and related uses in support of the aforesaid. Overview Continued • One and two institutional housing units will include basic living room/kitchen, bathroom and washer/dryer capabilities; • Institutional multi-units will include a full studio apartment with living and sleeping space, a full bathroom and kitchenette; plus community and computer rooms, staff offices, and on-site parking; • Community Center will include a multi-purpose/flexible gathering space, a computer lab, an exercise room, full-service kitchen, office spaces, case management and property management facilities, a small laundry room and similar supportive uses; • Health center to host primary care, mental health counseling and dental care partners and services; • Training center; • Chapel and accompanying memorial garden; and • Maker’s space for teaching and supporting woodworking, artisanship, and other trade development. Proffers • Project will maintain a variety of green spaces and outdoor gathering spots located throughout the Project, including a community gardens, dog park, gazebos, trail connections to the existing city trail system and other outdoor amenities. • The Project will support: (i) low income persons who are at risk of homelessness, and/or (ii) those persons overcoming homelessness, with priority for those who are chronically unhoused (i.e. displaced for one year or more or also have a disability which has led to homelessness for at least one year). • Project will include the following supportive services, which may be enhanced or reduced based on the needs of residents within Project: a) Healthcare b) Income/Workforce Development c) Housing-focused case management d) Spiritual Care e) Basic support needs Questions? From: Craig Graziano To: Planning Subject: [EXTERNAL] Public Comment - Jeremiah Community Date: Wednesday, July 10, 2024 9:05:58 AM CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe. Hello, As a Fredericksburg city resident, I am very much in favor of the proposal to rezone property on Fall Hill Avenue and Wicklow Drive in order to provide affordable and supportive housing to the most vulnerable members of our community. Fredericksburg agencies such as Micah Ecumenical Ministries, the Thurman Brisben Shelter, and our churches that provide meals all offer a significant amount of services and charity for our population experiencing homelessness. Unfortunately, charity only goes so far in helping those people who need it most. Affordable housing is the single most important factor in helping communities minimize and end homelessness. If people do not have affordable living as an option, it makes all other aspects of having a dignified, productive life impossible. Micah Ecumenical Ministries has developed an excellent model for supportive housing based on other community models that are working. This initiative will give unhoused individuals the support and foundation that they require. I commend Micah for their efforts and strongly encourage the Planning Commission to rezone this property for this purpose. Thank you, Craig Graziano 1603 Charles St. From: Ryan Mehaffey To: Planning Cc: meghann@dolovewalk.net; Baker, Ann Subject: [EXTERNAL] Jeremiah Project Date: Wednesday, July 10, 2024 12:24:27 PM CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe. Dear Planning Commission, Please accept this in support of Ms. Cotter and her work to address homelessness in our community. She and her organization, Micah Ecumenical Ministries, are valuable community partners for our court specialty dockets – the Veteran’s Treatment Docket, the Behavioral Health Docket, and Recovery Court. These dockets provide people who have been criminally charged the opportunity to rehabilitate themselves within a rigorous, structured program. Stable housing is an important component of being a productive member of society, and her work has made a difference to the participants in our highly successful dockets. Ms. Cotter is a proven leader in our community and consistently provides quality and effective services that positively impact homelessness in our area. My family and I have personally volunteered at Micah’s community dinners and attended her Street Church. She understands homelessness, is organized, and works tirelessly and effectively to reduce homelessness. I am confident that her efforts will positively impact homelessness in our area, which is good for all in our community, and I support her. I respectfully request that you support her also. Thanking you for your time and consideration, I am, Sincerely yours, G. Ryan Mehaffey (VSB: 82417) Commonwealth’s Attorney Office of the Commonwealth’s Attorney Spotsylvania County P.O. Box 2629 Spotsylvania, Virginia 22553 P: (540) 507-7650 F: (540) 582-3291 rmehaffey@spotsylvania.va.us From: ernest ackermann To: Planning Subject: [EXTERNAL] Jeremiah Community requests before the Planning Commission Date: Wednesday, July 10, 2024 2:00:44 PM CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe. Dear Members of the Planning Commission, We are writing to express our strong support for the proposals regarding the Zoning Map Amendment, Special Use Permit, and Vacation of Right-of- Way for the Jeremiah Community project. This initiative represents a well- thought-out plan that promises to become a stellar example for similar communities, catering to a diverse range of populations. The Jerimiah Community project stands out for its meticulous planning and commendable objectives. Its design ensures a space where counseling, camaraderie, care, and productivity can flourish. This holistic approach not only addresses the immediate needs of its residents but also fosters a supportive and nurturing environment. Moreover, the project has the potential to attract significant interest from various parts of the Commonwealth and even from across the country. Its innovative approach and well-developed plans are likely to serve as a model for other communities looking to implement similar initiatives. We firmly believe that the Jerimiah Community will have a profound positive impact on our area. It will provide much-needed services and support to its residents while setting a new standard for community development projects. We urge you to approve the proposals for the Zoning Map Amendment, Special Use Permit, and Vacation of Right-of-Way for the Jeremiah Community project. Your support will help turn this visionary project into a reality, benefiting not only its future residents but also the wider community. Thank you for considering our views on this matter. Sincerely, Lynn and Ernest Ackermann 1300 College Avenue Fredericksburg, VA 22401 From: Elizabeth K. Humphries To: Planning Cc: Baker, Ann; Brian A. Carrico; meaghann@dolovewalk.net Subject: Jeremiah Community and Rezoning Date: Wednesday, July 10, 2024 8:53:44 AM Attachments: image001.png Good morning, Planning Commission, I am emailing to support the rezoning request for Micah’s Jeremiah Community project to provide housing for the homeless and the rezoning request that is needed to establish the Jeremiah Community. Stable housing is an ingredient to preventing crime and stable housing is an ingredient to rehabilitating people who have committed crime. Stable housing is also a related and key component to providing successful substance abuse disorder treatment, which also both prevents crime and rehabilitates individuals who have committed crimes in part due to these circumstances. We have ample amounts of crime in the City of Fredericksburg where poverty, mental health, and/or substance abuse are overlapping root causes to varying degrees in offense behaviors. The community needs prevention and rehabilitation resources to address these situations. These resources help us keep Fredericksburg safe and thriving, which benefits the entire community. I am unable to attend this evening’s meeting in person due to being in court today on a three-day homicide trial with some expectations my day in court might not conclude until 7 or 8pm. It is possible I will be able to recruit some coverage for my office to be represented this evening. However, the chief deputy for my office is in the same homicide trial as I am. Libby K. Humphries Elizabeth K. Humphries Commonwealth’s Attorney City of Fredericksburg PO Box 886 | Fredericksburg, Va. 22404-0886 Desk 540.372.1040, Ext. 316 | Cell 540.369.0102 ekhumphries@fredericksburgva.gov From: Leslie Martin (lmartin) To: Planning Subject: [EXTERNAL] comments in support of planned rezoning of 0 Wicklow Dr. to PD-R Date: Sunday, July 7, 2024 9:22:57 AM CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe. Good morning, members of the Planning Commission. I am writing today to express my support of the request to re-zone 0 Wicklow Drive to Planned Development-Residential. My support today is focused on two main reasons: the proposed development will provide community that our neighbors experiencing homelessness need, and the minimal (if any) negative consequences for current residents in nearby areas. a. As a former board member of the Continuum of Care, and a researcher who has done qualitative research interviewing people in our Fredericksburg community who have had long- term experiences of homelessness, I have heard directly from these neighbors about their desire for community/integration, and their desire to make a positive impact, to be useful to others. People who worked for years and years, and then faced personal difficulties – like life- altering illnesses, painful divorces, or loss of work and more – know what it feels like to support themselves, to have their own space to call home, to be able to produce things for others. All of these actions, all of these activities that provide meaning and purpose for those of us who are housed are also important for those without housing! The plans for the Jeremiah community will create opportunity for residents to explore what their current gifts and interests are, and to find ways to share and support their community. I am focusing on this maybe more nebulous benefit of the Jeremiah community because although the other more concrete material benefits (adding affordable housing, decreasing street homelessness) are real and important – it is the WAY that the Jeremiah community proposes to do this that is especially exciting. This plan demonstrates care for the whole person, the whole community, and recognizes the common humanity shared by all of us. b. Sometimes neighbors to proposed developments serving homeless people become concerned about possible impact on their property values, or impact of such a development on their quality of life. Research in the social sciences shows that while these concerns from residents reflect real worries, and real investment (emotional and financial) in their communities – the feared outcomes are not likely to come to fruition. In other words, when we worry that a new development will negatively impact property values – the way this may come to pass is if residents “panic sell.” If they don’t, the changes in property values are less likely to occur. Similarly, research consistently shows that when neighborhoods are characterized by folks keeping an eye out for each other, and an eye on common spaces – we can all occupy these communities together, safely. When we retreat – out of fear or distrust of our neighbors – safety issues are more able to increase.  Bringing the Jeremiah community to the Bragg Hill neighborhood adds more people who are committed to being in community, as well as more members of the broader Micah community (the many, many organizations, churches and individuals who support Micah’s work) who will be present and involved in the area. Our society is full of stigma about people experiencing homelessness – especially those who have been chronically homeless. It makes sense that neighbors may be fearful about what the addition of this population to their community could mean. However, I hope that all are able to see that many of these stigmas are just stereotypes that don’t reflect the real humanity of individuals, of our neighbors. And that the folks who will live in the Jeremiah community are people who WANT to live in the Jeremiah community. This should tell us something about their willingness to be a positive part of community. Thanks for taking the time to read this too-long email. Leslie Martin 179 Longstreet Ave, FXBG 22401 And Professor of Sociology, UMW From: Void-Amos, Lashaun To: Planning Subject: [EXTERNAL] JEREMIAH COMMUNITY Date: Wednesday, July 10, 2024 9:24:18 AM CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe. Good Morning, I am emailing in support of Micah Ministries’ Jeremiah Community. As a Probation Officer at Rappahannock Regional Jail, I feel that housing is a key element in determining the efficacy of being on supervision. Our clients who have stable housing tend to be more successful while on supervision which has a positive impact on their pending charges. Unfortunately, when people on supervision do not have adequate housing, they tend to get more charges such as Trespassing, Larceny, etc. Oftentimes, people cannot get hired because they do not have a physical address. They have no address that they are able to send/receive mail which negatively impacts their ability to find employment. Again, these factors increases one’s propensity to commit crimes. I wholly support approving zoning permission for the Jeremiah Community. Regards, LaShaun Void-Amos Community-Based Probation Officer Rappahannock Regional Veterans Treatment Docket Rappahannock Regional Jail 1745 Richmond Hwy, Stafford, VA 22554 lamos@rrj.state.va.us O: 540.288.5311 F: 540.288.5289 From: Rachel Beasley To: Planning Subject: [EXTERNAL] Jeremiah Project Date: Monday, July 8, 2024 8:18:48 AM CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe. Good Morning, I will start by saying I am not a resident of the 22401 zip code but rather 22405. We live right across the river though and consider Fredericksburg more our home than Stafford proper. I am writing this email to voice my support in favor of the rezoning needed for the Jeremiah project. I attend FUMC church, our family helps with community dinners and sometimes breakfasts. We fully support Micah and all they do to help those in our community. This is an opportunity for our community to do something great, and maybe even to encourage other communities to do the same. Please vote in favor of this rezoning. Rachel Beasley 207 Riverview Dr Fredericksburg, VA 22405 Sent from Yahoo Mail for iPhone From: White, Justin T To: Planning Subject: [EXTERNAL] Support of Jeremiah Community Date: Wednesday, July 10, 2024 8:51:34 AM Attachments: image001.png CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe. Good morning, My name is Justin White and I am a Probation Officer at the Rappahannock Regional Jail. I work on the Spotsylvania Regional Behavioral Health Docket for Spotsylvania Circuit Court and I have grown up in the City of Fredericksburg. I attended Hugh Mercer Elementary, Walker Grant Middle, and James Monroe High School. I wanted to express my support for this housing community as homelessness has really had an impact on our specialty dockets which include Veteran’s Treatment Docket, Recovery Court, and our Behavioral Health Docket. It is very hard for us to configure housing for our participants and I personally feel this community would be extremely helpful in ending homelessness for the city and I support all of the rezoning. Affordable housing is very necessary in this time of day and the onsite support system that these potential residents receive would be vital for life changing results. Thank you, Justin T. White Community Based Probation Officer Spotsylvania Behavioral Health Docket Team Rappahannock Regional Jail 1745 Richmond Hwy. Stafford, Virginia 22554-3300 Phone: 540-288-5230 Fax: 540-288-5289 or 540-658-0607 From: Downs, Anton To: Planning Subject: [EXTERNAL] Support for Homeless Homes Date: Wednesday, July 10, 2024 11:08:15 AM Importance: High CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe. Good morning, I just wanted to send this brief email as a way of support for the hopes of building housing for the homeless human beings in our community. Please vote to rezone the land to allow for the Jeremiah Community so our probationers that have homelessness as a barrier to their success will greatly benefit by this project in the hopes of reducing their risk of recidivism. Anton Downs II Community-Based Probation Program Manager Rappahannock Regional Jail 1745 Richmond Hwy P.O Box 3300 Stafford, VA 22555 Office: 540.288.5233 Fax: 540.288.5289  4701 Market Street, Suite A • Fredericksburg, VA 22408 540.371.3070 • www.FredGoodwill.org July 5, 2024 Meghann Cotter, Executive Servant Leader Micah Ecumenical Ministries 1013 Princess Anne St. Fredericksburg, VA 22401 To Whom it May Concern, Rappahannock Goodwill Industries would like to express our support for Micah Ecumenical Ministries’ Jeremiah Community. Goodwill has partnered with Micah for over a decade. We share a common vision of building a community where our neighbors can find a sense of belonging and empowerment through secure housing and meaningful employment. The mission of Goodwill is to create jobs locally, prepare people to succeed at work, and help them overcome barriers to employment. Goodwill provides one-on-one work readiness preparation and job placement services for Micah participants. Goodwill also collaborates with Micah by providing vouchers for residents to shop in our stores. We have taken many approaches to help address employment barriers to individuals facing homelessness and are excited about the prospect of being a partner in The Jeremiah Community. As a leading provider of employment services in the Fredericksburg region, Rappahannock Goodwill provided job help assistance to over 10,000 individuals last year, placing 1,800 community members into jobs. Recognizing the correlation between housing and job retention, Goodwill is supportive of the economic stability that will be provided through The Jeremiah Community. As an employer of 350 associates, we look forward to the opportunity of creating economic opportunities to all those facing barriers to employment through our ongoing partnership with Micah. Thank you, Steve Cox President & CEO Rappahannock Goodwill Industries, Inc. Mission: We create jobs locally, prepare people to succeed at work, and help them overcome barriers to employment. From: Baker, Ann To: Cc: ; Subject: [EXTERNAL] Please vote Yes to rezone the land for the Jeremiah Community Date: Wednesday, July 10, 2024 12:36:20 PM CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe. Good Afternoon, I am Ann Baker, the Specialty Dockets Coordinator for our Regional Spotsylvania Behavioral Health Docket and Rappahannock Regional Veterans Treatment Docket. We service the City of Fredericksburg along with Stafford, Spotsylvania and King George Counties. Our dockets are post plea deferred disposition dockets for persons that have mental health and substance use disorders. We have worked alongside our partner Micah Ministries to address the housing barriers many of our criminal justice involved persons in our dockets face. We support the rezoning of the land necessary to allow for the Jeremiah Community to be built to end homelessness in the City of Fredericksburg. Our docket teams feel that housing is directly correlated to our participants success and reducing recidivism in our community. Our dockets have a 75% success rate for our Behavioral Health Docket FY24 and 100% Success rate for our Veterans Docket FY23. The Jeremiah Community project will give many of our participants facing homelessness the resource to overcome their setbacks. Tonight is my husband’s birthday, otherwise I would personally attend the Planning Commission meeting at 6:30pm tonight. We will have representation from our teams at their to speak this evening in support. Thank you for your consideration of this opportunity to make a real evident impact on the community our dockets serve. Respectfully, Ann Baker Ann K. Baker, Specialty Dockets Coordinator Rappahannock Regional Jail Rappahannock Regional Veterans Treatment Docket Team Spotsylvania Regional Behavioral Health Docket Team 1745 Richmond Hwy. PO Box 3300 Stafford, VA 22555 540-288-5226 Direct 540-288-5289 FAX 540-658-0607 Alternate FAX abaker@rrj.state.va.us The information in this email and any attachments may be confidential and privileged. Access to this email by anyone other than the intended addressee is unauthorized. If you are not the intended recipient (or the employee or agent responsible for delivering this information to the intended recipient) please notify the sender by reply email and immediately delete this email and any copies from your computer and/or storage system. The sender does not authorize the use, distribution, disclosure or reproduction of this email (or any part of its contents) by anyone other than the intended recipient(s). No representation is made that this email and any attachments are free of viruses. Virus scanning is recommended and is the responsibility of the recipient. May 14, 2024 To: Fredericksburg Planning Commission, As you continue to consider what is best for your city and community, we invite you to learn more about our innovative Community First! Model and how it has positively impacted our community here in Central Texas. Mobile Loaves & Fishes (MLF) has been empowering communities into a lifestyle of service with the homeless in Austin, TX since 1998. The Community First! Village is the first-of-its-kind, 51-acre master- planned development that provides affordable, permanent community and housing for individuals coming out of chronic homelessness. Our Community First! Model consists of outreach through our Food Truck operations in partnership with 8 local churches throughout Austin, community and housing at the Community First! Village, and our Community Works program which provides work opportunities for neighbors residing at Community First! Village. Presently, there are 385 formerly chronically homeless neighbors living at Community First! Village. The average retention rate since our opening 8 years ago is 85.8%. In 2023, our neighbors collectively earned $1.5M in Dignified Income through the various work opportunities in our Community Works program. We make the necessary resources available to our high-needs population through collaborative partnerships with our local government — Travis County Sheriff’s Office, EMS and Commissioners Court; Downtown Austin Community Court; and Austin’s regional public transit provider CapMetro — as well as with on-site supportive service providers. Additionally, our Community First! Model of engaging local businesses and other community members through innovative projects, impact funding, and creative contributions has resulted in award-winning homes, fully furnished residences, and an average of 30 weekly community- and relationship-building engagements for our neighbors. As you examine proof of concept for Jeremiah Community, we invite you along with other key local stakeholders to visit Community First! Village and see our Community First! Model in action. We believe that the Community First! Model, developed from over 25 years of experience of listening to and working with chronically homeless individuals, when faithfully and fully implemented can provide a dignified, hopeful response to homelessness not only for those experiencing homelessness but also the entire local community. Through our Community First! Replication Pathway, MLF comes alongside organizations like Micah Ecumenical Ministry to inspire, equip, and resource aspiring replicators through providing content, community, and capability-building events and training. I am delighted to report that Meghann Cotter along with 6 members of her organization have invested finances and time to attend our offerings, including the Symposium for Goodness’ Sake, CF! seminars, and our initial CF! Leadership Training course. We hope to continue to journey with Micah Ecumenical Ministries as they launch Jeremiah Community in Fredericksburg, and we look forward to the unique local expression of the Community First! Model implemented to transform homelessness in your city. Sincerely, Karen Yang Director of CF! Replication Replication@mlf.org 512-551-5427 From: Trisha Lynn To: Planning Subject: [EXTERNAL] Proposal for Jeremiah Community Date: Wednesday, July 10, 2024 12:31:04 PM CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe. Good Afternoon, I support the proposal for the Jeremiah Community for a number of reasons. It will help the homeless in need, those that live off of social security, can't afford housing, or have family to reside with. It will also be beneficial to them to have housing in the same location if they are in need of mental health services, so their case managers can visit them in the same area. Also, it will be beneficial for the community, reducing crime from one having to live on the streets. If the homeless have a stable home, then the risk of them being in the criminal justice system, should be slim, especially for trespassing charges. Personally, with my current employment, working with indigent clients, housing is a barrier due to their mental illness, unable to work, receiving only social security, especially if they do not have family to assist. So the proposal for the Jermiah Community will help in many aspects with indigent/homeless people. Thank you for your consideration, Trisha Deaton  July 3, 2024 The Honorable David Durham City of Fredericksburg Planning Commission Dear Chairman Durham, On behalf of the 1,800 REALTORS® and affiliate members of the Fredericksburg Area Association of REALTORS® (FAAR), I am writing to express my strong support for affordable housing initiatives in our community. Access to safe and affordable housing plays a critical role in fostering stable and healthy communities. Affordable housing not only provides individuals and families with a place to call home but also offers them the opportunity to thrive. It allows people to allocate more of their income towards other essential needs such as healthcare, education, and food and improves their quality of life. Furthermore, affordable housing contributes to the economic vitality of our community. It attracts and retains a diverse workforce, supports local businesses, and enhances property values. With median home prices hovering in the mid-$400,000 range in the City of Fredericksburg and the surrounding localities, many individuals and families are struggling to find affordable housing options. Rising housing costs, stagnant wages, and limited availability exacerbate this issue, leaving many vulnerable populations at risk of homelessness or housing instability. I urge you to prioritize affordable housing in your decision-making processes and support policies and programs that aim to increase the availability of affordable housing options in our community. Thank you for your attention to this important matter. Sincerely, Randy Walther President Cowan Station Special Use Permit Planning Commission July 10, 2024 Overview • Request to extend approval timeframe for a drive-through for a financial institution • SUP approved June 28, 2022 with a condition that the use commence within 24 months • No change in conditions or SUP plans are proposed • Renewal would extend approval to 2026 • Cowan Station rezoned to C-H in 2020, proffered to obtain a SUP for a drive-through • Site Plan approved 2023 and a site plan amendment is required for the drive-through SUP • Recommendation: Approval subject to same conditions as previously approved (which would extend the approval 2 more years) Location – Intersection of Olde William St. & Emancipation Hwy. Zoning GDP • Three lanes with Interactive Teller Machines • 24 hour drive- through access. • Building height is 23 feet • Canopy height is 16.5 feet • Evergreen buffer NORTH along residential Conditions 1. The drive-through use shall be developed in substantial accordance with the GDP. 2. The use shall commence within 24 months of the date of adoption of this resolution. The use is permitted only so long as it continues and is not discontinued for more than 24 months (per City Code section 72-22.6) [this is the focus of the request and would extend the approval that expired on June 28, 2024 to two years after the approval of this request]. 3. The drive-through shall be associated with a financial institution. 4. Add a marked pedestrian crosswalk along the entrance. 5. The majority of plantings in the vegetated buffer(s) shall be evergreens Staff Recommendation • Approval subject to conditions Questions? Planning Commission July 10, 2024 Use Standards 1. Drive-through facilities shall be located at least 100 feet from any detached single-family dwelling or single-family residential zoning district. 2. Outdoor speakers associated with a drive-through shall be at least 50 feet from any lot line and shall not be audible beyond the lot line. 3. Drive-through facilities shall not be located on the front facade of the building they serve. 4. Drive-through facilities shall be designed so as not to obstruct the movement of pedestrians along sidewalks, through areas intended for public use, or between the building entrance and customer parking spaces. 5. Canopies or other features installed over a drive through window shall maintain common roof and lines and materials with the principal structure. Use Standards 1. Drive-through facilities shall be located at least 100 feet from any detached single-family dwelling or single-family residential zoning district. 2. Outdoor speakers associated with a drive-through shall be at least 50 feet from any lot line and shall not be audible beyond the lot line. 3. Drive-through facilities shall not be located on the front facade of the building they serve. 4. Drive-through facilities shall be designed so as not to obstruct the movement of pedestrians along sidewalks, through areas intended for public use, or between the building entrance and customer parking spaces. 5. Canopies or other features installed over a drive through window shall maintain common roof and lines and materials with the principal structure. Use Standards 1. Drive-through facilities shall be located at least 100 feet from any detached single-family dwelling or single-family residential zoning district. 2. Outdoor speakers associated with a drive-through shall be at least 50 feet from any lot line and shall not be audible beyond the lot line. 3. Drive-through facilities shall not be located on the front facade of the building they serve. 4. Drive-through facilities shall be designed so as not to obstruct the movement of pedestrians along sidewalks, through areas intended for public use, or between the building entrance and customer parking spaces. 5. Canopies or other features installed over a drive through window shall maintain common roof and lines and materials with the principal structure. Use Standards 1. Drive-through facilities shall be located at least 100 feet from any detached single-family dwelling or single-family residential zoning district. 2. Outdoor speakers associated with a drive-through shall be at least 50 feet from any lot line and shall not be audible beyond the lot line. 3. Drive-through facilities shall not be located on the front facade of the building they serve. 4. Drive-through facilities shall be designed so as not to obstruct the movement of pedestrians along sidewalks, through areas intended for public use, or between the building entrance and customer parking spaces. 5. Canopies or other features installed over a drive through window shall maintain common roof and lines and materials with the principal structure. Use Standards 1. Drive-through facilities shall be located at least 100 feet from any detached single-family dwelling or single-family residential zoning district. 2. Outdoor speakers associated with a drive-through shall be at least 50 feet from any lot line and shall not be audible beyond the lot line. 3. Drive-through facilities shall not be located on the front facade of the building they serve. 4. Drive-through facilities shall be designed so as not to obstruct the movement of pedestrians along sidewalks, through areas intended for public use, or between the building entrance and customer parking spaces. 5. Canopies or other features installed over a drive through window shall maintain common roof and lines and materials with the principal structure. Code and Comprehensive Plan UDO: • C-H intended for automobile-focused commercial uses on/near highways. • Proposed drive-through is auto-oriented, highway adjacent. • Drive-through permitted by-right in C-H District Comp. Plan: • Future Land Use map calls for General Commercial. • Meets goal of supporting business development. • Update to small area plan underway SUP Analysis Traffic: Anticipate 374 trips per day. Morning peak of 26 trips per hour. Evening peak of 81 trips per hour. Per analysis, no turn lanes or taper lanes required. Parking: 18 spaces required, will be providing 26. Alternative Parking Plan must be approved by the Development Administrator for parking in excess of 125% required. Granted for current site plan. Lighting: Lighting must be downcast and shielded, not exceed 0.5 foot candles at edge of property adjacent to residential uses. SUP Analysis Scale of project: Accessory structures cannot exceed 25 feet. Drive- through is 16.5 ft. tall. Noise: SUP includes condition prohibiting speakers from being audible beyond the lot line. Evergreen tree buffer to be planted. Intelligent Teller Machines would act as standard ATM outside of business hours. Environmental: Considered during the 2020 rezoning and have been addressed on the approved site plan.  COMPREHENSIVE PLAN CHAPTER 2 DEMOGRAPHIC AND ECONOMIC DATA UPDATE OVERVIEW • Review the data in Chapter 2 • Discuss the questions about the data and the proposed path forward • Present revised recommendation POPULATION GROWTH • Most regional growth occurring in Spotsylvania and Stafford • The City’s growth rate is comparable to King George and Caroline County • Population expected to increase by 10,600 people by 2050 EXISTING POPULATION POPULATION GROWTH BY AGE  POPULATION GROWTH BY AGE - QUESTION • Weldon Cooper Methodology is based on a formula. The formula is composed of both local past trends and state trends. The numbers are not a context sensitive City specific demographic model. • The purpose of these projections according to the Weldon Cooper Center website is to “provide an approximate idea of the expected future population size.” • Useful as an expected future population to gauge emerging trends and Comprehensive Plan policy considerations such as: • Changing national housing composition; • Demographic shifts, aging population, delayed child-birth; • Climate change; • Changes in technology and transportation networks; and • On-going impacts from the COVID-19 Pandemic. PROJECTED STUDENT TOTAL PROJECTED STUDENT TOTAL PROJECTED STUDENT TOTAL • Some difference in the population projections and the school enrollment projections from Weldon Cooper. • Weldon Cooper’s estimates included in the draft Chapter 2 were released on April 15, 2024. The trend illustrated is a generally stable school population with some moderate increase in high school age population over five years. • The numbers are slightly different from a set of projections the school system obtained from Weldon Cooper in 2023. Those projections produced three scenarios based on short term, medium term, and long term trends. The short term trends were generally consistent with the 2024 Weldon Cooper study. The medium and long term trend projections show slightly more growth in the school system, especially in the elementary school population. • School enrollment is subject to many variables, which results in volatility when compared to jurisdictions outside the I-95 corridor as well as statewide trends. • School enrollment projections should be considered as part of an on-going review of school capital and capacity needs in close partnership with the City school system in conjunction with the update of the City’s Capital Impacts Study on a more frequent cycle than the Comprehensive Plan update. HOUSING AND INCOME HOUSING AND INCOME • Two new potential datasets identified: • Vacancy rates • Housing cost per square foot • Fredericksburg Area Association of Realtors is working on a Housing Gap Analysis that can provide that information in a more comprehensive context. • Recommendation is to use the Housing Gap Analysis as an information input to the broader discussion on housing in the Comprehensive Plan. EMPLOYMENT DISTRIBUTION COMMUTING PATTERNS RECOMMENDATION: - Recommend approval of the Chapter 2 update to the City Council with the revised section on school data eliminating Figure 6, Figure 7, and Table 11 and stating that school enrollment projections should be considered as part of the on-going updates to the Capital Impact Study. RECOMMENDATION: Approve the Resolution starting the public review of the Comprehensive Plan demographic and economic data. If initiated – next step would be a Public Hearing with the Planning Commission at its July 10 meeting.