Planning Commission Meeting Packets
Regular MeetingSuffolk, VA · April 18, 2017
Agenda
SUFFOLK PLANNING COMMISSION
AGENDA FOR
APRIL 18, 2017
PREPARED BY THE CITY OF SUFFOLK DEPARTMENT OF
PLANNING & COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
DAVID HAINLEY, DIRECTOR
THE REGULAR MEETING WILL BE HELD AT 2:00 P.M. IN
THE SUFFOLK CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS OF THE CITY HALL BUILDING
IF YOU CANNOT ATTEND OR NEED SPECIAL ACCOMODATIONS AT THE
MEETING, PLEASE CALL THE CITY OF SUFFOLK DEPARTMENT OF PLANNING
& COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT AT (757) 514-4060
PRIOR TO 12:00 NOON ON FRIDAY, APRIL 14, 2017.
HOWARD C. BENTON
CHAIRMAN
AGENDA
SUFFOLK PLANNING COMMISSION
APRIL 18, 2017
2:00 P.M.
1. Call to Order
A. Invocation
B. Roll Call
2. Approval of minutes from previous meeting
3. Public Hearings:
A. REZONING REQUEST, RZ16-16, (Conditional), Meadows Landing: submitted by James
R. Bradford of Site Selection and Design, LLC, agent(s), on the behalf of Bob Arnette,
Meadows Landing Associates, LLC, applicant(s), on the behalf of Richard E. Conner, property
owner(s), to rezone and amend the official zoning map of the City of Suffolk to change the
zoning from A, Agricultural zoning district, to RLM, Residential Low Medium Density zoning
district, for property located at 595 Turlington Road, Zoning Map 43, Parcel(s) 21. The
affected area is further identified as being located in the Whaleyville Voting Borough, zoned
A, Agricultural zoning district. The 2035 Comprehensive Plan designates this area as part of
the Central Growth Area, Suburban Use District.
B. CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT REQUEST, C03-17, Lighthouse Ministries of Suffolk:
submitted by David Joyner, agent on the behalf of Lighthouse Ministries of Suffolk,
applicant(s), on the behalf of David and Susan Joyner and N. Howard and Hazel Small,
property owner(s), in accordance with Section(s) 31-306 and 31-406 of the Unified
Development Ordinance, to grant the Conditional Use Permit to establish a place of worship,
(small, under 6,000 square feet in main sanctuary), on properties located at 6617 Holland
Road, Zoning Map 40A, Parcel(s) A29*PT28 and A30. The affected area(s) is further
identified as being located in the Holy Neck Voting Borough, zoned VC, Village Center
zoning district. The 2035 Comprehensive Plan designates this area as part of the Rural
Agriculture Use District.
C. CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT REQUEST, C04-17, Brick and Mortar Brewing
Company: submitted by David Stacknick of Brick and Mortar Brewing Company,
applicant(s), on the behalf of Suffolk Fairgrounds Properties, LLC, property owner(s), in
accordance with Section(s) 31-306 and 31-406 of the Unified Development Ordinance, to
grant the Conditional Use Permit to establish a winery or micro-brewery with entertainment
(nightclub), on property located at 212 and 218 East Washington Street, Zoning Map
34G18(A), Parcel(s) 220 and 221. The affected area(s) are further identified as being located
in the Suffolk Voting Borough, zoned CBD, Central Business District zoning district. The
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2035 Comprehensive Plan designates this area as part of the Central Growth Area, Mixed Use
Core District.
D. ORDINANCE TEXT AMENDMENT, OA02-17; initiated by the City of Suffolk, to amend
the Code of the City of Suffolk, Chapter 31, Unified Development Ordinance, Article 7,
Supplemental Use Regulations, Section 31-701, Accessory Uses and Structures, and Appendix
A, Definitions, for the purpose of establishing definitions and standards pertaining to the
keeping of backyard chickens. The purpose of the text amendments is to update and refine the
Code of the City of Suffolk, Chapter 31, Unified Development Ordinance due to a change in
circumstances.
4. Old Business
5. New Business
A. Status Report – City Council Meeting, March 22, 2017
6. Commissioner’s Comments
7. Adjournment
Page 2
MINUTES
SUFFOLK PLANNING COMMISSION
March 21, 2017
2:00 P.M.
The meeting of the Suffolk Planning Commission was held on Tuesday, March 21,
2017, at 2:00 p.m., in the Council Chambers of the Municipal Building, 442 W.
Washington Street, Suffolk, Virginia, with the following persons present:
MEMBERS: STAFF:
Howard Benton, Chairman Helivi Holland, City Attorney
Arthur Singleton, Vice-Chairman David Hainley, Dir. of Planning & Com. Dev.
Johnnie Edwards Bob Goumas, Assistant Director of Planning
John Rector David Parks, Principal Planner
Mills Staylor Amanda Beck, Planner II
James Rountree Andrew Reitelbach, Planner I
Anita Hicks Amy Thurston, Planner I
James Vacalis Catina Myrick, Executive Secretary
The meeting was called to order by Chairman Benton and Commissioner Rountree
opened with a prayer. The roll was called by Mr. Hainley and the Chairman was
informed that a quorum was present.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES:
The minutes of the previous meeting were approved as written.
PRELIMINARY SUBDIVISION PLAT:
PRELIMINARY SUBDIVISION PLAT REQUEST, PS02-16, NRGC Residential
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Subdivision: submitted by River Highlands, LLC, applicant(s), on behalf of Tuck
Bowie of Terry-Peterson Residential, property owner(s), in accordance with Section(s)
31-308 and 31-508 of the Unified Development Ordinance, to approve a Preliminary
Subdivision Plat to create 178 residential parcels and associated rights-of-way, on
property located at 1000 Hillpoint Boulevard, Zoning Map 26F, Parcel(s) S*6. The
affected area is further identified as being located in the Chuckatuck Voting Borough,
zoned RU, Residential Urban zoning district. The 2035 Comprehensive Plan
designates this area as part of the Central Growth Area, Suburban Use District.
The first item of business was introduced by the Chairman followed by a staff report
presented by David Parks, Principal Planner. Mr. Parks stated that the proposed
residential subdivision will contain 178 detached single family homes within the
Hillpoint Neighborhood. The proposed subdivision will be developed as a
conventional subdivision. All of the proposed lots meet the dimensional requirements
of the RU district as required within Table 407-1 of the UDO. The site will be served
by both City water and sewer. This conventional subdivision layout provides one main
active open space parcel along the Nansemond River. This active open space will
consist of a path to a pier with an overlook along the Nansemond River. This active
open space parcel is also the location of the existing Civil War Battery, Fort Huger and
the developer stated that a memorial plaque will be placed to provide a history of the
site. As part of the conditional rezoning, the developer is required to provide the City
with a Cultural Resource Report for this fort site. The layout also provides for 1.21
acres of passive open space which generally consist of grassy areas and critical areas
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within the site. The Department of Parks and Recreation reviewed the open space
layout and recommended approval based on the layout provided. The open space plan
meets the requirements of the UDO. The traffic impacts associated with the
preliminary plat are consistent with the findings of the previously approved conditional
rezoning. This subdivision proposed two access points off of Hillpoint Boulevard.
One entrance will be a full entrance and exit and the other proposed access point will
provide for right in/right out only. The main entrance to the subdivision will be
constructed through the existing parking area for the Nansemond River Golf Course.
This will require a redesign of the parking lot and will be reviewed accordingly
through the engineering plan review process. The City’s Traffic Engineer reviewed
and approved the recommendations in the traffic impact study. Stormwater will be
treated through a combination of structures including ponds, bioretention structures,
and rooftop disconnects. Further design of these structures will be reviewed by Public
Works through the engineering plan review. It was staff’s opinion that the proposed
preliminary subdivision plat is in compliance with the minimum design standards of
the UDO and is consistent with the 2035 Comprehensive Plan. Based on these
findings of fact, staff recommended approval of this application with the conditions
noted in the staff report.
Speaking in favor of this application was Melissa Venable, 5857 Harbour View Blvd.
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Suffolk, VA.
Commissioner Rountree made a motion to approve this application with the conditions,
seconded by Commissioner Hicks and passed by a voice vote of 8 to 0.
PUBLIC HEARINGS:
CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT REQUEST, C01-17, Hampton Roads Parkway-
VEPCO T-Mobile VA70660A: submitted by C.E. Forehand, FCI Towers, agent(s) on
the behalf of T-Mobile c/o FCI Towers and C.E. Forehand, applicant(s), on the behalf
of Robert Copehart of Virginia Dominion Power, property owner(s), in accordance
with Section(s) 31-306 and 31-406 of the Unified Development Ordinance, to grant the
Conditional Use Permit to establish a telecommunication tower, on property located at
6545 Hampton Roads Parkway, Zoning Map 6, Parcel (s) 13C*1. The affected area is
further identified as being located in the Nansemond Voting Borough, zoned B-2,
General Commercial zoning district. The 2035 Comprehensive Plan designates this
area as part of the Northern Growth Area, Mixed Use Core District.
The next item of business was introduced by the Chairman followed by a staff report
presented by Andrew Reitelbach, Planner I. Mr. Reitelbach stated that the applicant
proposed to construct a 145’ monopole telecommunications tower, as well as a
lightning rod and associated equipment, through the middle of the existing 131’ lattice-
style transmission tower on a parcel containing a Dominion Power substation. A short
access drive branching off from the main driveway into the Dominion facility will also
be constructed. The City’s Traffic Engineer expressed no concerns about this because
there will be no new entrance on Hampton Roads Parkway and a minimal number of
new trips overall. The proposed tower conforms to the character of the site and
4
neighborhood where it will be located and should not pose any adverse effects on the
surrounding area. By placing this new telecommunication tower within the footprint of,
and up through the middle of, an existing Dominion transmission tower, the new tower
is relatively disguised and minimizes the visual impact on its surroundings. Co-siting
these towers also limits the number of new individually-standing towers in the area.
The UDO supports the co-siting of telecommunications towers with transmission
towers in order to lessen the impact of new towers. It is compatible with both existing
uses on the subject parcel – the transmission tower and the substation facility. The
proposed tower should not have an injurious impact on the surrounding neighborhood
either, based on the existing uses of the subject parcel and because the tower is co-sited
with the transmission tower, minimizing its impact. There should also be minimal
impact on any residential areas – businesses surround the parcel on three sides, and a
BMP pond buffers this site from the apartments located on the parcel to the east. The
tower should not be an endangerment to the public, as it meets the required setbacks
and is proposed to be built within the footprint of an existing Dominion transmission
tower. Dominion approved the construction of this tower on its property. Historically,
the city has not required lighting on towers that are constructed through the middle of
existing Dominion transmission towers, as this one is. This proposed tower should
enhance telecommunications service in a rapidly growing and developing area of the
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city, the Hampton Roads Parkway and College Drive corridors. It was staff’s opinion
that the request in question meets the standards outlined in the UDO, and the proposal
will have no adverse impacts on the surrounding area. Therefore, staff recommended
approval of this application with the conditions noted in staff report.
The public hearing was opened and speaking in favor of this application was C. E.
Forehand, FCI Towers. He asked for the Commission’s approval of this application.
There being no speakers in opposition, the public hearing was closed.
Commissioner Singleton made a motion to approve this application with the conditions
and added a condition to add FAA lighting to the tower, seconded by Commissioner
Hicks and passed by a recorded vote of 8 to 0.
SUBDIVISION VARIANCE REQUEST, V01-16, River Creek Crossing:
submitted by Tim Jones, of JFLP Ventures, LLC, applicant(s), on the behalf of JK II
Family, LLC, property owner(s), in accordance with Section(s) 31-308 and 31-515 of
the Unified Development Ordinance, to grant a variance to the Street Improvement
Standards of Section 31-612 of the Unified Development Ordinance to permit the
creation of a residential subdivision which lots derive access via a single cul-de-sac
road on the property located at 9345 Rivershore Drive, Zoning Map 1A(C ), Parcel(s)
C. The affected area(s) is identified as being located in the Chuckatuck Voting
Borough, zoned RL, Residential Low Density zoning district. The 2035
Comprehensive Plan designates this area as a part of Northern Growth Area, Suburban
Use District and the Crittenden/Eclipse Village Use District.
The next item of business was introduced by the Chairman followed by a staff report
presented by Amanda Beck, Planner II. Ms. Beck stated that the applicant requested a
variance from Section 31-612 subsection (f)(7), Connectivity and Secondary Access.
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The proposed subdivision would be accessed via a cul-de-sac, resulting in a
connectivity ratio of 1.0. While the project is unable to meet the minimum
connectivity ratio, the applicant did stress that the cul-de-sac, which would become
public right-of-way, would be one of few streets within the surrounding area designed
to accommodate for emergency service vehicle turn around, as many of the existing
streets in Eclipse dead end or terminate into a private drive. Staff believes that the
granting of the variance will not be detrimental to the public health and safety, or
injurious to other property. In fact, the addition of an appropriately sized cul-de-sac
would facilitate the turnaround of emergency service vehicles in this area. The
condition which the request is based upon is unique to the property. The lots
surrounding parcel 1A(C)C have been subdivided, sold, and built upon in a fashion
which makes infill development difficult on this parcel. Because of the physical
surroundings, and the shape of the parcel, requiring a connectivity ratio of 1.40 creates
a hardship for the applicant. The relief sought does not in any manner vary the
provisions of the Zoning Ordinance or the Comprehensive Plan, but in fact follows the
development pattern allowed by RL zoning and also suggested in the Comprehensive
Plan. Due to the size and shape of parcel 1A(C)C, as well as the physical surroundings
which prevent additional street connections from being extended to adjacent properties,
staff felt that the conditions upon which the request is based are unique to the subject
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property and that it could only be developed with a single cul-de-sac providing access.
In that regard, staff recommended approval of this application with the condition noted
in the staff report.
The public hearing was opened and speaking in favor of this application was Melissa
Venable, 5857 Harbour View Blvd. Suffolk, VA.
Speaking in opposition was William Beigle, 9338 Rivershore Drive, Suffolk, VA – he
expressed his concerns with the drainage issues.
Also, speaking in opposition was William Plemmons, 9228 Wigneil Street, Suffolk,
VA.
Also, speaking in opposition was Steve Charles, 9191 Wigneil Street, Suffolk, VA.
Also, speaking in opposition was Robert Spain, 9368 Rivershore Drive, Suffolk, VA –
he advised that five (5) houses are way too much for this area.
Also, speaking in opposition was Caroline Martin, 9164 Wigneil Street, Suffolk, VA –
inquired if the City had done a study to see if high density supports this area.
Also, speaking in opposition was Cathy Darden, 1776 Bleakhorn Rd., Suffolk, VA.
Commissioner Rountree made a motion to allow an additional 10 minutes for speakers
to speak, seconded by Commission Staylor and passed by a voice vote of 8 to 0.
Speaking in opposition was Johnny Holland, 9351 Rivershore Drive, Suffolk, VA – he
advised that this project does not fit into this community.
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Also, speaking in opposition was David Canada, 9316 Dixon Road, Suffolk, VA – he
advised that their community need nice roads with sidewalks.
Also, speaking in opposition was Sandford Tomlin, 9389 Rivershore Drive, Suffolk,
VA – he also expressed his concerns with safety and environmental issues in this area.
Speaking in rebuttal was Melissa Venable – she stated that they will be improving the
water runoff situation and also will be doing improvements to the roads.
There being no more speakers, the public hearing was closed.
Commissioner Rountree advised that all the concerns and questions raised by the
community will be looked at when the subdivision plat has been submitted; therefore,
he made a motion to approve this application with the conditions, seconded by
Commissioner Hicks and passed by a recorded vote of 7 to 0 to 1. (Commissioner
Rector abstained.)
ORDINANCE TEXT AMENDMENT, OA1-17; initiated by the City of Suffolk, to
amend the Code of the City of Suffolk, Chapter 31, Unified Development Ordinance,
Article 7, Supplemental Use Regulations, Section 31-701, Accessory Uses and
Structures, and Appendix A, Definitions, for the purpose of establishing definitions
and standards pertaining to the installation and removal of temporary family health
care structures. The purpose of the text amendment is to update and refine the Code of
the City of Suffolk, Chapter 31, Unified Development Ordinance due to a change in
circumstances and changes to the Code of Virginia.
The next item of business was introduced by the Chairman followed by a staff report
presented by Amy Thurston, Planner I. Ms. Thurston stated that this text amendment
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is to establish temporary family health care structures as an accessory use in
accordance with changes to the State Code. The purpose of a temporary family health
care structure is to provide care from a caregiver to a mentally or physically impaired
person. The property must be owned or occupied by the caregiver as his or her
residence. This use must be permitted as an accessory use in any single-family
residential zoning district and shall not be subject to a special use permit or other
requirements beyond those imposed on other authorized accessory structures. The
structure must be transportable; it cannot consist of a foundation, and cannot exceed
300 gross square feet. The occupants of the structure are limited to one mentally or
physically impaired person or, in the case of a married couple, two occupants, one of
whom is a mentally or physically impaired person, and the other requires assistance
with one or more activities of daily living as certified in writing by a physician licensed
in the Commonwealth of Virginia. The locality may require that the applicant provide
evidence of compliance on an annual basis as long as the temporary family health care
structure remains on the property. Evidence may also involve an inspection by the
locality. Such structures may be required to connect to any water, sewer, and electric
utilities that are serving the primary residence on the property and shall comply with all
requirements of the Virginia Department of Health. No signage advertising the
existence of the use is permitted. Lastly, the structure must be removed within 60 days
10
of the date on which the structure was last occupied by a mentally or physically
impaired person receiving services or in need of assistance. Based on the
considerations previously noted, staff recommended approval of the proposed text
amendments.
The public hearing was opened. There being no speakers in favor or in opposition, the
public hearing was closed.
Commissioner Rector made a motion to approve this ordinance text amendment,
seconded by Commissioner Vacalis and passed by a recorded vote of 8 to 0.
STATUS REPORT:
Mr. Hainley reported on the results of the February 15th City Council meeting.
OTHER BUSINESS:
Commissioner Singleton made a motion to initiate an ordinance text amendment to the
Unified Development Ordinance in reference to backyard chickens, seconded by
Commissioner Edwards and passed by a voice vote of 8 to 0.
ADJOURNMENT:
There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned.
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MT: Rountree MT: Singleton MT: Rountree MT: Rector
PLANNING COMMISSION 2ND: Hicks 2ND: Hicks 2ND: Hicks 2ND: Vacalis
MEETING
TO: Approve TO: Approve TO: Approve TO: Approve
March 21, 2017 w/conditions w/conditions and w/conditions
add condition about
lighting
VOTE: 8-0 VOTE: 8-0 VOTE: 7-0-1 VOTE: 8-0
OA1-17
PS2-16 C1-17 V1-16
PRESENT ABSENT YES NO YES NO YES NO YES NO
X X X X X
Benton, Howard C.
X X X X X
Edwards, Johnnie
X X X X X
Hicks, Anita
X X X Abstained X
Rector, John
X X X X X
Rountree, Ronnie
X X X X X
Singleton, Arthur
X X X X X
Staylor, Mills
X X X X X
Vacalis, James
MT: Singleton MT: MT: MT:
PLANNING COMMISSION 2ND: Edwards 2ND: 2ND: 2ND:
MEETING
TO: Initiate text TO: TO: TO:
March 21, 2017 amendment in
reference to backyard
chickens
VOTE: 8-0 VOTE: VOTE: VOTE:
Initiate Text
Amendment
PRESENT ABSENT YES NO YES NO YES NO YES NO
X X
Benton, Howard C.
X X
Edwards, Johnnie
X X
Hicks, Anita
X X
Rector, John
X X
Rountree, Ronnie
X X
Singleton, Arthur
X X
Staylor, Mills
X X
Vacalis, James
STAFF REPORT
DESCRIPTION
REZONING REQUEST: Rezoning Request, RZ16-16, Meadows Landing, requesting to
rezone 17.31 acres from A, Agricultural, zoning district, to RLM, Residential Low Medium
Density, zoning district.
APPLICANT: Submitted by James R. Bradford of Site Selection and Design, LLC, agent(s), on
behalf of Bob Arnette, Meadows Landing Associates, LLC, applicant(s), on behalf of Richard E.
Conner, property owner.
LOCATION: The subject property is located at 595 Turlington Road and is further identified as
Zoning Map 43, Parcel 21, Whaleyville Voting Borough. The subject property is located near the
southwest corner of the intersection of Turlington Road and Jackson Road. The property fronts
approximately 634 linear feet on Turlington Road and 608 linear feet on Jackson Road.
PRESENT ZONING: A- Agricultural zoning district.
EXISTING LAND USE: The parcel currently contains a single-family dwelling on
approximately 0.91 acres and 16.4 acres of cultivated farmland. According to the applicant, the
site contains approximately 5.3 acres of forested wetlands. In addition, a 150 foot wide Virginia
Power right-of-way easement, which is approximately 3.03 acres, runs diagonally in the northern
portion of the property.
PROPOSED LAND USE: The proposed use of the property is single-family detached
dwellings.
SURROUNDING LAND USES:
North – Single-family dwellings zoned RLM- Residential Low Medium
West – Unimproved land zoned A- Agricultural
South – Single-family dwellings zoned RLM- Residential Low Medium
East – Undeveloped land zoned C- Conservation
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN: The 2035 Comprehensive Plan designates this area as a part of
the Central Growth Area, Suburban Use District.
CHESAPEAKE BAY PRESERVATION AREA DESIGNATION: The property is located
within the Chesapeake Bay Preservation Area Overlay District and is designated as a Resource
Management Area (RMA).
PUBLIC NOTICE: This request has been duly advertised in accordance with the public notice
requirements set forth in Section 15.2-2204 of the Code of Virginia, as amended, and with the
applicable provisions of the Unified Development Ordinance. A notice, containing a copy of the
staff report, was also provided to the applicant on April 14, 2017.
Planning Commission
April 18, 2017
RZ16-16
Page 2 of 6
STAFF ANALYSIS
ISSUE:
The applicant is requesting to rezone 17.31 acres from A, Agricultural, to RLM, Residential Low
Medium, for a parcel of land located at 595 Turlington Road. The subject property is further
identified as Zoning Map 43, Parcel 21, Whaleyville Voting Borough. The subject parcel fronts
approximately 634 linear feet on Turlington Road and 608 linear feet on Jackson Road. The
existing land uses include a one story single-family dwelling, which is located on approximately
0.91 acres, and 16.4 acres of cultivated farmland. According to the applicant, this site contains
approximately 5.3 acres of forested wetlands. In addition, a 150 foot wide Virginia Power right-
of-way easement, which is approximately 3.03 acres, runs diagonally in the northern portion of
the property.
As presented, the applicant proposes to rezone the property for the purpose of developing single-
family detached dwellings as permitted in the RLM zoning district. The applicant intends to
develop a cluster subdivision, as stated in their narrative; however, the applicant is under no
obligation to do so and may choose to develop a conventional subdivision as permitted under the
Unified Development Ordinance.
CONSIDERATIONS AND CONCLUSIONS
In accordance with Appendix B, Section B-4 of the Unified Development Ordinance, rezoning
applications must include a statement of the reasons for seeking an amendment to the zoning
maps of the City of Suffolk. The applicant provided several reasons for this rezoning request.
First, the surrounding properties are zoned RLM, Residential Low Medium, to the immediate
north and south, A, Agricultural, to the west, and C, Conservation, to the east; therefore, the
applicant believes that the proposed zoning would fill in existing gaps in RLM zoning and
provide a buffer to the Agricultural zoning district to the west. Secondly, the applicant indicated
that this property is one of only a few remaining parcels that front Turlington Road and are still
zoned Agricultural. In addition, Turlington Road is currently improved with City water and
sewer. The applicant stated that the proposed development would be consistent with the
Comprehensive Plan’s Themes, Policies, and Actions which encourage cluster developments to
preserve and protect the natural environment and provide for open space. In addition, the
applicant believes that the proposed zoning is compatible with the existing uses and densities
permitted within the surrounding area (which may or may not be similarly situated with
jurisdictional wetlands). Lastly, the applicant stated that rezoning the property would provide
valuable tax revenue to the City.
1. Comprehensive Plan
The 2035 Comprehensive Plan designates this area as a part of the Central Growth Area,
Suburban Use District. The Suburban Use District is the least dense area within the
Growth Areas and should be primarily composed of traditional residential subdivisions.
Single-family dwellings are the most common use found in this district. The
recommended density is 1-5 dwelling units per acre; the proposed zoning would fall
within this range by allowing a maximum of 2.9 dwelling units per acre. Based on the
information provided by the applicant, the applicable place type would be Suburban
Neighborhood under the 2035 Comprehensive Plan.
Planning Commission
April 18, 2017
RZ16-16
Page 3 of 6
The Comprehensive Plan sets specific themes and policies related to land use,
transportation, open space, and the environment that should be considered when
contemplating a rezoning application. Relevant to this application are the following:
Policy 2-1: Keep development focused in designated Growth Areas in the City
Action 2-1A: Ensure that the City’s land use regulations support higher
density/intensity development in focused Growth Areas.
The proposed RLM, Residential Low Medium zoning, appears to be appropriate for a
location within the Suburban Use District of the Central Growth Area as it would allow a
maximum of 2.9 dwelling units per acre. As stated, the current use of the property is one
single-family dwelling and approximately 16.4 acres of cultivated farmland; therefore,
the proposed zoning would result in an increase in density, which is encouraged within
the Central Growth Area. The proposed zoning would also be in keeping with the
surrounding single-family dwellings. It is staff’s opinion that the requested zoning district
is consistent with the policies of the 2035 Comprehensive Plan.
Policy 4-1: Provide opportunities for residents to adopt a lifestyle that is less
dependent on auto travel.
Action 4-1A: Focus development in the two Suburban/Urban Growth Areas based
on the densities shown in Chapter 3.
The recommended density for the Suburban Use District is 1-5 dwelling units per acre;
since the proposed RLM zoning falls within the recommended range at 2.9 dwelling units
per acre, the request complies with Policy 4-1A.
Policy 6-1: Encourage development of a balanced and diverse housing stock
throughout the City.
Action 6-1A: Ensure that the City’s land use regulations allow for a variety of
housing types, such as single-family detached, single-family attached, and multi-
family.
The proposed zoning would increase the single-family detached housing stock within the
Central Growth Area. The proposed change in zoning would fill in a gap of RLM zoning
along Turlington Road such that it would create a continuous, nearly two (2) mile section
of RLM zoning from Austin Drive to Carolina Road.
2. Unified Development Ordinance
Under Section 31-406 of the Unified Development Ordinance, single-family detached
dwellings are permitted as by right uses in the proposed RLM zoning district.
Conventional, hamlet, and cluster use patterns are permitted in this zoning district per
Section 31-408 (e). As stated in Section 31-407, conventional lots in the RLM district
must be a minimum of 15,000 square feet in area with a minimum frontage of eighty (80)
feet and a minimum lot width of one-hundred (100) feet. There is no minimum lot area
requirement for cluster or hamlet option developments.
Planning Commission
April 18, 2017
RZ16-16
Page 4 of 6
The proposed 17.31 acres of RLM zoning would require that 7% of the gross area, or
1.21 acres, be set aside as open space in a conventional subdivision. Per Section 31-607
(e), seventy percent (70%) of the total open space must be active open space, which
equates to approximately 0.85 acres. A cluster development requires a minimum of 45%
or 7.79 acres of open space, of which 5% or 0.39 acres must be active. Active open space
must consist of activity-based recreational amenities such as parks and trails, picnic areas,
or playgrounds, among others. Compliance with regard to open space requirements will
be verified during development review.
3. Adequate Public Facilities
The purpose and intent of the adequate public facilities ordinance is to ensure that public
facilities are available to support new development and associated impacts and that each
public facility meets or exceeds the Level of Service standards established by the 2035
Comprehensive Plan and the Unified Development Ordinance. No rezoning request
should be approved which would cause a reduction in the levels of service standards for
any public facility impacted. Overall, the existing public facilities that serve this property
are adequate to support the proposed Residential Low Medium zoning district.
Public Water and Sanitary Sewer
The applicant submitted a Public Facilities Report that addresses the issue of providing
water and sewer service to the site. The Department of Public Utilities has indicated that
City water is available to this property parcel via an 8” asbestos cement and 20” ductile
iron water main on Turlington Road. City sewer is available by means of an 8” gravity
sewer main and 8” sewer force main on Turlington Road. City PS #162/Turlington Road
will receive the gravity sewer flow from this portion of Turlington Road. City PS #162
has sufficient capacity for the proposed development and a pump station analysis will not
be needed as part of the design. Public Utilities advised the applicant that a City water
model will need to be requested during the design stage to determine whether sufficient
fire flow is available to the site. Based on the information provided, Public Utilities has
no objections to the Rezoning Request at this time.
Stormwater Management
The subject property is located within the Chesapeake Bay Preservation Area and is
designated as Resource Management Area (RMA). Preliminary VRRM calculations
were provided by the applicant to demonstrate a possible stormwater solution for the site.
The applicant has stated that they plan to address stormwater management with a Level 1
Wet Pond and simple disconnects to A/B soils. A detailed stormwater management
design will be provided during the development review phase of the project.
The applicant has also indicated that should they elect to encroach into the Virginia
Power easement, written approval from Dominion Power will be provided. The
Department of Public Works, Engineering Division, has advised the applicant that their
ability or inability to utilize the Virginia Power easement for stormwater management
may affect the overall layout and design of the site.
Planning Commission
April 18, 2017
RZ16-16
Page 5 of 6
Transportation
The applicant provided a Traffic Impact Analysis with this application, which outlines
the traffic impacts associated with the proposed development. Although the TIA findings
indicate that turn lanes are not required for the proposed development, Traffic
Engineering has advised the applicant that an eastbound right turn lane will be required
on Turlington Road in accordance with Section 4.2.2 of the Public Facilities Manual.
This requirement will be reviewed during the development review phase of the project.
Schools
For the purpose of analyzing future school impacts, the number of proposed dwelling
units is based on the maximum number of dwelling units permitted by right in the RLM
zoning district according to Section 31-407. The RLM district allows a maximum of 2.9
dwelling units per acre; therefore, a total site area of 17.31 acres would allow a maximum
of 50 dwelling units by right in a conventional subdivision. The student generation rates
calculated below were based on Section 31-601.
Elementary 0.21 x 50 dwelling units = 11 students
Middle 0.12 x 50 dwelling units = 6 students
High 0.19 x 50 dwelling units = 10 students
The subject property will feed into Kilby Shores Elementary School, which has a surplus
in capacity of 34 students, Forest Glen Middle School, which as a surplus in capacity of
59 students, and Lakeland High School, which has a surplus in capacity of 412 students.
All of the impacted schools currently have surpluses; therefore, no advancement of
school capacity is needed.
4. Fiscal Impact Study
The applicant submitted a fiscal impact study that estimates that the proposed
development will generate a cumulative net fiscal impact to the City of Suffolk of
approximately $431,413 from 2017 to 2018. Once build-out occurs, it is estimated that
the Meadows Landing development will provide an annual positive net fiscal impact to
the City of Suffolk of approximately $55,136.
5. Proffered Conditions
The applicant has not proffered conditions in support of this request.
RECOMMENDATION
In summary, staff finds that the proposal is consistent with the provisions of the 2035
Comprehensive Plan and the Unified Development Ordinance. Accordingly, staff recommends
approval of Rezoning Request RZ16-16.
Planning Commission
April 18, 2017
RZ16-16
Page 6 of 6
Attachments:
General Location Map
Zoning/Land Use Map
Application Narrative
Conceptual Layout
Proposed Ordinance
Exhibit A – Planning Commission Resolution
Exhibit B – Property Map
Exhibit C – Plat
GENERAL LOCATION MAP
RZ16-16
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Use Districts
MIXED USE CORE
CORE SUPPORT
INNER-RING SUBURBAN
SUBURBAN
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RURAL AGRICULTURE
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ORDINANCE NO. __________
AN ORDINANCE TO REZONE AND AMEND THE OFFICIAL ZONING
MAP OF THE CITY OF SUFFOLK, TO CHANGE THE ZONING FROM
A, AGRICULTURAL, ZONING DISTRICT, TO RLM, RESIDENTIAL
LOW MEDIUM DENSITY, ZONING DISTRICT, FOR PROPERTY
LOCATED AT 595 TURLINGTON ROAD, ZONING MAP 43, PARCEL
21; RZ16-16
WHEREAS, James R. Bradford of Site Selection and Design, LLC, agent(s), on behalf of
Bob Arnette, Meadows Landing Associates, LLC, applicant(s), on behalf of Richard E. Conner,
property owner have requested a change in zoning from A, Agricultural, zoning district, to RLM,
Residential Low Medium Density, zoning district, for property located at 595 Turlington Road,
Zoning Map 43, Parcel 21, which land is depicted on Exhibit "B"; and,
WHEREAS, the proposed rezoning and amendment to the official zoning map have been
advertised and reviewed by the Planning Commission in compliance with the requirements of
state law; and,
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission has made a recommendation as stated in Exhibit
"A"; and,
WHEREAS, a public hearing before City Council was duly advertised as required by law
and held on the 17th day of May, 2017, at which public hearing the public was presented with the
opportunity to comment on the proposed rezoning.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED by the Council of the City of Suffolk,
Virginia, that:
Section 1. Exhibit "A", "Planning Commission Recommendation", Exhibit “B”,
“Property Map”, and Exhibit "C", “Plat”, which are attached hereto, are
hereby incorporated as part of this ordinance.
Section 2. Findings.
A. Council finds that the proposed rezoning is reasonable, and warranted due
to a mistake or change in circumstances affecting the property; and has
considered the following factors and finds that the proposed rezoning does
not conflict with:
1. the existing use and character of property within the City;
2. the Comprehensive Plan;
3. the suitability of the property for various uses;
4. the trends of growth or change;
5. the current or future requirements of the community as to land for
various purposes as determined by population and economic
studies and other studies;
6. the transportation requirements of the community;
7. the requirements for airports, housing, schools, parks, playgrounds,
recreation areas and other public services;
8. the conservation of natural resources;
9. the preservation of flood plains;
10. the preservation of agricultural and forestal land;
11. the conservation of properties and their values;
12. the encouragement of the most appropriate use of land throughout
the City; and,
13. the expressed purpose of the City’s Unified Development
Ordinance (UDO) as set out in Section 31-102 of the UDO, as
amended, and Section 15.2-2283 of the Code of Virginia, (1950),
as amended.
Section 3. Rezoning.
A. The property be, and it is hereby, rezoned to RLM, Residential Low
Medium Density, zoning district, and the official zoning map be, and it is
hereby, amended as shown on the attached Exhibit “B”, which is
incorporated herein by reference.
B. The foregoing rezoning and amendment to the official zoning map are
expressly made subject to the performance of the conditions hereby
proffered and accepted and these conditions shall remain in effect until a
subsequent amendment changes the zoning of the property; however, such
conditions shall continue if the subsequent amendment is part of a
comprehensive implementation of a new or substantially revised zoning
ordinance.
Section 4. Recordation.
A certified copy of this ordinance shall be recorded, by the applicant, in the name of the
property owner as grantor in the office of the Clerk of the Circuit Court of the City of
Suffolk, Virginia.
This ordinance shall be effective upon passage and shall not be published or codified.
READ AND PASSED: _________________________
TESTE: _________________________
Erika S. Dawley, City Clerk
Approved as to Form:
_____________________________
Helivi L. Holland, City Attorney
EXHIBIT “A”
RESOLUTION NO. 17-04-1
CITY OF SUFFOLK PLANNING COMMISSION
A RESOLUTION TO PRESENT A REPORT AND RECOMMENDATION
TO CITY COUNCIL RELATING TO REZONING REQUEST
RZ16-16
TO REZONE AND AMEND THE OFFICIAL ZONING MAP OF THE CITY OF
SUFFOLK, TO CHANGE THE ZONING FROM A, AGRICULTURAL, ZONING
DISTRICT, TO RLM, RESIDENTIAL LOW MEDIUM DENSITY, ZONING DISTRICT,
FOR PROPERTY LOCATED AT 595 TURLINGTON ROAD, ZONING MAP 43,
PARCEL 21
WHEREAS, James R. Bradford of Site Selection and Design, LLC, agent(s), on behalf
of Bob Arnette, Meadows Landing Associates, LLC, applicant(s), on behalf of Richard E.
Conner, property owner have requested a change in zoning from A, Agricultural, zoning district,
to RLM, Residential Low Medium Density, zoning district; and,
WHEREAS, the procedural requirements for the consideration of this request by the
Planning Commission have been met.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Planning Commission of the City of
Suffolk, Virginia, that:
Section 1. Findings.
A. The Suffolk Planning Commission finds that the proposed rezoning is reasonable,
and warranted due to a change in circumstances affecting the property, and has
considered the following factors and finds that the proposed rezoning does not
conflict with:
1. the existing use and character of property within the City;
2. the Comprehensive Plan;
3. the suitability of the property for various uses;
4. the trends of growth or change;
5. the current or future requirements of the community as to land for various
purposes as determined by population and economic studies and other
studies;
6. the transportation requirements of the community;
7. the requirements for airports, housing, schools, parks, playgrounds,
recreation areas and other public services;
8. the conservation of natural resources;
9. the preservation of flood plains;
10. the preservation of agricultural and forestal land;
11. the conservation of properties and their values;
12. the encouragement of the most appropriate use of land throughout the
City;
13. the expressed purpose of the City’s Unified Development Ordinances as
set out in Section 31-102 of the Code of the City of Suffolk (1998), as
amended, and Section 15.2-2283 of the Code of Virginia, (1950), as
amended (“Va. Code”).
Section 2. Recommendation to Council
The Planning Commission recommends to City Council that the request, RZ14-16, be:
___a. Granted as submitted, and the City Council adopt the proposed Ordinance without
modification.
___b. Denied, and that Council not adopt the proposed Ordinance.
___c. Granted with the modifications set forth on the attached listing of specific
recommendations, and that Council adopt the proposed Ordinance with such
modifications.
READ AND PASSED: ________________________________
TESTE: ________________________________
EXHIBIT B
PROPERTY MAP
RZ16-16
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REZONING EXHIBIT RZ16-16 EXHIBIT C
STAFF REPORT
DESCRIPTION
CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT: Conditional Use Permit Request C03-17, submitted by David
Joyner, agent on the behalf of Lighthouse Ministries of Suffolk, applicant(s), on the behalf of
David and Susan Joyner and N. Howard and Hazel Small, property owner(s), in accordance with
Section(s) 31-306 and 31-406 of the Unified Development Ordinance, to grant a Conditional Use
Permit to establish a place of worship, (small, under 6,000 square feet in the main sanctuary), on
properties located at 6617 Holland Road, Zoning Map 40A, Parcel(s) A29*PT28 and A30.
APPLICANT: Submitted by David Joyner, agent on the behalf of Lighthouse Ministries of
Suffolk, applicant(s), on the behalf of David and Susan Joyner and N. Howard and Hazel Small,
property owner(s).
LOCATION: The affected properties are located at 6617 Holland Road and are further
identified as Zoning Map 40A, Parcel(s) A29*PT28 and A30.
PRESENT ZONING: VC, Village Center Zoning District, and SCOD, Special Corridor
Overlay District.
EXISTING LAND USE: The two parcels together have a total area of 0.78 acres. Zoning Parcel
40A*A29*PT28 has a building that was formerly a BB&T bank branch building and associated
parking lot. Zoning Parcel 40A*A30 has a portion of the parking lot associated with the former
BB&T building.
PROPOSED LAND USE: The applicants propose to convert the existing building into a place
of worship, (small, under 6,000 square feet in the main sanctuary).
SURROUNDING LAND USES:
North – Holland Road, single-family home, and park, zoned VC, Village Center zoning district,
RM, Residential Medium Density zoning district, and SCOD, Special Corridor Overlay
District.
South – Norfolk Southern railroad tracks, zoned VC, Village Center zoning district.
East – Single-family home, zoned RM, Residential Medium Density zoning district.
West – Vacant lot, zoned VC, Village Center zoning district, and SCOD, Special Corridor
Overlay District.
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN: The City’s 2035 Comprehensive Plan identifies this property as
being located within the Holland Village Use District.
CHESAPEAKE BAY PRESERVATION AREA DESIGNATION: This property is located
outside of the Chesapeake Bay Preservation Area Overlay District.
PUBLIC NOTICE: This request has been duly advertised in accordance with the public notice
requirements set forth in Section 15.2-2204 of the Code of Virginia, as amended, and with the
applicable provisions of the Unified Development Ordinance. Notice to the applicant, containing
a copy of the staff report, was also sent on April 14, 2017.
Planning Commission
April 18, 2017
C03-17
Page 2 of 5
CASE HISTORY: There is no case history associated with this property.
STAFF ANALYSIS
ISSUE
The applicants are requesting a Conditional Use Permit to establish a small place of worship
(under 6,000 square feet in the main sanctuary) on the property at 6617 Holland Road, which
consists of approximately 0.78 acres across two adjacent lots. There is an existing building,
formerly a BB&T bank branch, of 3,596 square feet, on the property, along with an associated
parking lot. The applicants are proposing to convert the existing building into a place of worship.
There is no plan to provide a day care or other accessory uses at this property, and these uses are
not contained within this Conditional Use Permit request.
This property is served by public water. This property is on a private septic system and requires
approval from the Suffolk Health Department in order to operate.
CONSIDERATIONS AND CONCLUSIONS
1. Section 31-406 of the Unified Development Ordinance (UDO) requires that a conditional
use permit be obtained for a place of worship, (small, under 6,000 square feet in the main
sanctuary), within the VC, Village Center zoning district.
2. City water is available to serve this property via a 12” City water main that is available
for connection along Holland Road and South Quay Road for fire and domestic needs.
The Department of Public Utilities has reviewed this application and has no objections to
the proposed use.
3. This property does not have City sewer available for connection. It requires a private, on-
site septic system to handle sanitary sewer flows. This septic system has received
approval from the Suffolk Health Department, limiting the number of seats in the church
to a maximum of 50. Future expansion in the number of seats would require updated
approval from the Health Department.
4. Food preparation conducted on the property is not allowed under the current approval of
the Suffolk Health Department. If there is a desire in the future to conduct food
preparation activities on the property, updated approval from the Health Department
would be needed.
5. Parking requirements outlined in the UDO require one (1) parking space per four (4)
seats at a religious assembly use. There are 24 existing parking spaces, including three (3)
handicapped spaces, on this property. The number of existing parking spaces allows for a
maximum of 96 seats for this religious assembly use. Because the septic system approval
from the Health Department limits the number of seats to 50, there is sufficient parking
currently available for the number of seats allowed.
Planning Commission
April 18, 2017
C03-17
Page 3 of 5
6. The existing building is currently accessed off of Holland Road. The City’s traffic
engineer has reviewed this application and has no objections to the proposed use.
7. The applicants will be required to address any issues regarding occupancy of the building
pertaining to the Building Code with the Division of Community Development.
8. Pursuant to Section 31-306 of the Unified Development Ordinance (UDO), a Conditional
Use Permit recognizes uses that, because of their unique characteristics or potential
impacts on adjacent land uses, are not generally permitted in certain zoning districts as a
matter of right. Rather, such uses are permitted through the approval of a Conditional Use
Permit by City Council when the right set of circumstances and conditions are found
acceptable.
Conditional Use Permit Approval Criteria, 31-306(c) – As may be specified within each
zoning district, uses permitted subject to conditional use review criteria shall be permitted
only after review by the Planning Commission and approval by the City Council, and
only if the applicant demonstrates that:
a) The proposed conditional use shall be in compliance with all regulations of the
applicable zoning district, the provisions of Article 6 of the Ordinance and any
applicable supplemental use standards as set forth in Article 7 of the Ordinance.
The proposed use of a place of worship, (small, under 6,000 square feet in the main
sanctuary), is a listed conditional use in the VC, Village Center zoning district per the
City’s Unified Development Ordinance. There are no supplemental use standards for
places of worship set forth in Article 7 of the Ordinance.
b) The proposed conditional use shall conform to the character of the neighborhood
within the same zoning district in which it is located. The proposal as submitted or
modified shall have no more adverse effects on health, safety or comfort of persons
living or working in or driving through the neighborhood, or shall be no more
injurious to property or improvements in the neighborhood, than would any other use
generally permitted in the same district. In making such a determination,
consideration should be given to the location, type and height of buildings or
structures, the type and extent of landscaping and screening on the site and whether
the proposed use is consistent with any theme, action, policy or map of the
Comprehensive Plan which encourages mixed uses and/or densities.
The general character of the surrounding area is a village district, with a mix of small
businesses, single-family homes, and a few other churches, along with a community
park and railroad tracks. The proposed use will occupy an existing building that was
formerly a BB&T bank branch building. The building is currently vacant. As the
proposed place of worship will occupy a former commercial building in a village
center, this use will not be adverse to persons living in, working in, or driving through
the neighborhood.
c) Adequate measures shall be taken to provide ingress and egress so designed as to
minimize traffic hazards and to minimize traffic congestion on the public roads.
Planning Commission
April 18, 2017
C03-17
Page 4 of 5
The request for the place of worship has been reviewed by the City’s Traffic
Engineer, who expressed no concerns regarding parking or traffic for the proposed
use and location. The building and parking lot are already in existence, and no
changes are proposed to the ingress and egress of the property. There will be no
substantial increase in traffic generation between the proposed religious assembly use
and the previous use of the property as a commercial bank.
d) The proposed use shall not be noxious or offensive by reason of vibration, noise,
odor, dust, smoke or gas.
The proposed use is for a place of worship and should not produce excess vibration,
noise, odor, dust, smoke, or gas. It is not anticipated that there will be any use
attached with this activity which would have a noxious or offensive impact on the
surrounding community.
e) The proposed use shall not be injurious to the use and enjoyments of the property in
the immediate vicinity for the purposes already permitted nor substantially diminish
or impair the property values within the neighborhood.
The property is located within the Holland Village Center area of the City, with a
mixture of uses including small businesses, single-family homes, other churches, a
community park, and railroad tracks. The proposed place of worship is similar to and
compatible with surrounding uses, and it should not diminish or impair the property
values within this neighborhood. By occupying a vacant building, this use should be
less injurious than the current situation.
f) The establishment of the proposed use shall not impede the orderly development and
improvement of surrounding property for uses permitted within the zoning district.
The property is located in a developed area. The proposed place of worship should
not impede the orderly development and improvement of the surrounding area.
g) The establishment, maintenance or operation of the proposed use shall not be
detrimental to or endanger the public health, safety, morals, comfort or general
welfare.
The proposed use of a place of worship should not be a detriment or endangerment to
the public health, safety, morals, comfort, or general welfare. The sewage needs of
the property are served by an on-site septic system. This septic system has been
approved by the Suffolk Health Department.
h) The public interest and welfare supporting the proposed conditional use shall be
sufficient to outweigh the individual interests which are adversely affected by the
establishment of the proposed use.
The public interest and welfare should not be compromised by the proposed use of a
place of worship. The individual interests of persons within the neighborhood should
Planning Commission
April 18, 2017
C03-17
Page 5 of 5
not be adversely impacted by the proposed use.
RECOMMENDATION
The proposed use of a place of worship (small, under 6,000 square feet in the main sanctuary) is
similar to and compatible with uses in the surrounding area and should have minimal impacts on
the neighborhood. Based on this review, staff has determined that the applicant’s request to grant
Conditional Use Permit C03-17 will have no adverse impact on the surrounding area and hereby
recommends that this request for a Conditional Use Permit be approved subject to the following
conditions:
1. This Conditional Use Permit is granted to establish a place of worship, (small, under
6,000 square feet in the main sanctuary), at 6617 Holland Road, Zoning Map 40A,
Parcel(s) A29*PT28 and A30, as shown on Exhibit “B”, “Property Map”.
2. The applicant will be required to address any issues regarding occupancy of the proposed
space pertaining to the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code with the Division of
Community Development.
3. Occupancy of the building will be established by the City’s Building Official and the
Suffolk Fire Department and shall not exceed 50 persons without written approval of the
on-site septic system from the Suffolk Health Department.
Attachments
General Location Map
Zoning / Land Use Map
Letter from Applicant
Health Department Evaluation
Proposed Ordinance
Exhibit A – Planning Commission Recommendation
Exhibit B – Property Map
Exhibit C – Site Survey/Building Layout
GENERAL LOCATION MAP
C03-17
Legend
MIXED USE CORE
CORE SUPPORT
INNER-RING SUBURBAN
SUBURBAN
RURAL CONSERVATION
RURAL AGRICULTURE JAMES RIVER
VILLAGE
Subject
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Location
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ORDINANCE NO. ________________
AN ORDINANCE TO GRANT A CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT TO
ESTABLISH A PLACE OF WORSHIP, (SMALL, UNDER 6,000 SQUARE
FEET IN THE MAIN SANCTUARY), ON PROPERTY LOCATED AT
6617 HOLLAND ROAD, ZONING MAP 40A, PARCELS A29*PT28 and
A30; C03-17
WHEREAS, David Joyner, agent on the behalf of Lighthouse Ministries of Suffolk,
applicant(s), on the behalf of David and Susan Joyner and N. Howard and Hazel Small, property
owner(s), have requested a conditional use permit for a place of worship on a certain tract of land
situated in the City of Suffolk, Virginia, which land is designated on the Zoning Map of the City
of Suffolk, Virginia, as Zoning Map 40A, Parcels A29*PT28 and A30, and which land is
depicted on Exhibit "B", “Property Map”; and,
WHEREAS, the procedural requirements of Article 3, Section 31-306 of the Code of the
City of Suffolk, Virginia, 1998 (as amended), have been followed; and,
WHEREAS, in acting upon this request, the Planning Commission and City Council have
considered the matters enunciated in Section 15.2-2284 of the Code of Virginia (1950), as
amended, and Article 1, Section 31-102 and Article 3, Section 31-306(c)(1 through 8) of the
Code of the City of Suffolk, 1998 (as amended), with respect to the purposes stated in the Code
of Virginia (1950), as amended, Sections 15.2-2200 and 15.2-2283; and,
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission has made a recommendation as stated in Exhibit
"A".
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED by the Council of the City of Suffolk,
Virginia, that:
Section 1. Exhibits.
Exhibit "A", "Planning Commission Recommendation", Exhibit "B", "Property Map",
and Exhibit “C”, “Site Survey/Building Layout”, which are attached hereto, are hereby
incorporated as part of this ordinance.
Section 2. Findings.
Council finds that the proposal for a conditional use permit, as submitted or modified
with conditions herein, the expressed purpose of which is to establish a place of worship
that is in conformity with the standards of the Unified Development Ordinance of the
City of Suffolk and that it will have no more adverse effects on the health, safety or
comfort of persons living or working in or driving through the neighborhood, and will be
no more injurious to property or improvements in the neighborhood than would any other
use generally permitted in the same district, taking into consideration the location, type
and height of buildings or structures, the type and extent of landscaping and screening on
site and whether the use is consistent with any theme, action, policy or map of the
Comprehensive Plan which encourages mixed uses and/or densities with the conditions
set forth below.
These findings are based upon the consideration for the existing use and character of
property, the Comprehensive Plan, the suitability of property for various uses, the trends
of growth or change, the current and future requirements of the community as to land for
various purposes as determined by population and economic studies and other studies, the
transportation requirements of the community, the requirements for airports, housing,
schools, parks, playgrounds, recreation areas and other public services, the conservation
of natural resources, the preservation of flood plains, the preservation of agricultural and
forestal land, the conservation of properties and their values, and the encouragement of
the most appropriate use of land throughout the City.
These findings are based upon a determination that the most reasonable and limited way
of avoiding the adverse impacts of a place of worship is by the imposition of the
conditions provided herein.
Section 3. Permit Granted.
The conditional use permit for the Property be, and it is hereby, approved for the
Property, subject to the following conditions and the general conditions set forth in
Section 4 hereof. The conditional use permit specifically permits a place of worship,
(small, under 6,000 square feet in the main sanctuary), in compliance with Exhibit “C”
(the “Site Survey/Building Layout”), and Sections 31-306 and 31-406 of the Code of the
City of Suffolk.
Conditions
1. This Conditional Use Permit is granted to establish a place of worship, (small, under
6,000 square feet in the main sanctuary), at 6617 Holland Road, Zoning Map 40A,
Parcel(s) A29*PT28 and A30, as shown on Exhibit “B”, “Property Map”.
2. The applicant will be required to address any issues regarding occupancy of the proposed
space pertaining to the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code with the Division of
Community Development.
3. Occupancy of the building will be established by the City’s Building Official and the
Suffolk Fire Department and shall not exceed 50 persons without written approval of the
on-site septic system from the Suffolk Health Department.
Section 4. General Conditions.
(a) The conditional use permit may be revoked by City Council upon failure to
comply with any of the conditions contained herein, after ten days written notice
to David Joyner, agent on the behalf of Lighthouse Ministries of Suffolk,
applicant(s), on the behalf of David and Susan Joyner and N. Howard and Hazel
Small, property owner(s), or their successors in interest, and a hearing at which
such persons shall have the opportunity to be heard.
(b) To the extent applicable, the requirements set forth in Section 31-306 of the Code
of the City of Suffolk, Virginia shall be met.
(c) The commencement of the use described in Section 3 of this ordinance shall be
deemed acceptance by David Joyner, agent on the behalf of Lighthouse Ministries
of Suffolk, applicant(s), on the behalf of David and Susan Joyner and N. Howard
and Hazel Small, property owner(s), or any party undertaking or maintaining such
use, of the conditions to which the conditional use permit herein granted is
subject.
Section 5. Severability.
It is the intention of the City Council that the provisions, sections, paragraphs, sentences,
clauses and phrases of this ordinance are severable; and if any phrase, clause, sentence,
paragraph, section and provision of this ordinance hereby adopted shall be declared
unconstitutional or otherwise invalid by the valid judgment or decree of a court of
competent jurisdiction, such unconstitutionality or invalidity shall not affect any of the
remaining phrases, clauses, sentences, paragraphs, sections and provisions of this
ordinance, to the extent that they can be enforced notwithstanding such determination.
Section 6. Recordation.
A certified copy of this ordinance shall be recorded, by the applicant, in the name of the
property owner as grantor in the office of the Clerk of Circuit Court.
Section 7. Effective Date.
This ordinance shall be effective upon passage and shall not be published or codified.
The conditional use authorized by this permit shall be implemented within two (2) years
from the date of approval by the City Council and shall terminate if not initiated within
that time period.
READ AND PASSED: __________________________
TESTE: __________________________
Erika Dawley, City Clerk
Approved as to Form:
_______________________________________
Helivi L. Holland, City Attorney
Exhibit A
RESOLUTION NO. 17-04-2
CITY OF SUFFOLK PLANNING COMMISSION
A RESOLUTION TO PRESENT A REPORT AND RECOMMENDATION
TO CITY COUNCIL RELATING TO CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT
C03-17
TO ESTABLISH A PLACE OF WORSHIP, ON PROPERTY LOCATED AT 6617
HOLLAND ROAD, ZONING MAP 40A, PARCELS A29*PT28 AND A30
WHEREAS, David Joyner, agent on the behalf of Lighthouse Ministries of Suffolk,
applicant(s), on the behalf of David and Susan Joyner and N. Howard and Hazel Small, property
owner(s), have requested the issuance of a conditional use permit for a certain tract of land
situated in the City of Suffolk, Virginia, which land is described and depicted on the proposed
Ordinance attached hereto and incorporated herein by reference; and
WHEREAS, the specific request is to permit a place of worship, (small, under 6,000
square feet in the main sanctuary), in accordance with Sections 31-306 and 31-406 of the Unified
Development Ordinance.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Planning Commission of the City of
Suffolk, Virginia, that:
Section 1. Findings.
The Suffolk Planning Commission finds that the proposal for a conditional use permit, as
submitted or modified herein:
a) Will have no more adverse effects on the health, safety or comfort of persons
living or working in or driving through the neighborhood,
b) Will have more adverse effects on the health, safety or comfort of persons living
or working in or driving through the neighborhood,
c) Will be no more injurious to property or improvements in the neighborhood, or
d) Will be more injurious to property or improvements in the neighborhood than
would any other use generally permitted in the same district, taking into
consideration the location, type and height of buildings or structures, the type
and extent of landscaping and screening on site and whether the use is
consistent with any theme, action, policy or map of the Comprehensive Plan
which encourages mixed uses and/or densities.
Section 2. Recommendation to Council.
The Planning Commission recommends to City Council that the request, C03-17, be:
a) Granted as submitted, and that the City Council adopt the proposed Ordinance
without modification.
b) Denied, and that Council not adopt the proposed Ordinance.
c) Granted with the modifications set forth on the attached listing of specific
recommendations and that Council adopt the proposed Ordinance with such
modifications.
READ AND ADOPTED:_________________________________
TESTE:________________________________________
CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT
C03-17
CONDITIONS
1. This Conditional Use Permit is granted to establish a place of worship, (small, under
6,000 square feet in the main sanctuary), at 6617 Holland Road, Zoning Map 40A,
Parcel(s) A29*PT28 and A30, as shown on Exhibit “B”, “Property Map”.
2. The applicant will be required to address any issues regarding occupancy of the proposed
space pertaining to the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code with the Division of
Community Development.
3. Occupancy of the building will be established by the City’s Building Official and the
Suffolk Fire Department and shall not exceed 50 persons without written approval of the
on-site septic system from the Suffolk Health Department.
PROPERTY MAP EXHIBIT B
C03-17
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AN H OL
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40A*A30 40A*A29*PT28
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EXHIBIT C
C03-17
EXHIBIT C
C03-17
STAFF REPORT
DESCRIPTION
ORDINANCE TEXT AMENDMENT OA02-17: As initiated by the City Council of
the City of Suffolk, the proposed text amendments are intended to modify the Code of the
City of Suffolk, Chapter 31, Unified Development Ordinance, Article 7, Zoning, Section
31-701, Supplemental Use Regulations, Accessory Uses and Structures, and Appendix A,
Definitions, for the purpose of establishing standards for the keeping of backyard
chickens in the City of Suffolk.
APPLICANT: The proposed ordinance text amendment has been initiated by the City
of Suffolk.
PUBLIC NOTICE: This request has been duly advertised in accordance with the public
notice requirements set forth in Section 15.2-2204 of the Code of Virginia, as amended,
and with the applicable provisions of the Unified Development Ordinance.
STAFF ANALYSIS
ISSUE AND BACKGROUND
The proposed text amendments shown in attached Exhibit B are presented for
consideration to establish the keeping of backyard chickens as accessory uses in the City
of Suffolk and to provide related performance standards in the Unified Development
Ordinance.
In that regard, the following sections of the UDO are recommended to be amended:
Sec. 31-701- Accessory Uses and Structures
- It is proposed that the keeping of backyard chickens be added as an
accessory use only on lots developed with a detached single family
dwelling within the RL, Residential Low Density, and RLM, Residential
Low-Medium Density, zoning districts. Such uses must comply with
proposed standards and criteria listed in subsection 31-701(b)(18).
Appendix A- Definitions.
- Proposed to add definitions for “Backyard Chicken” and “Backyard
Chicken Enclosure” and amend the definition of “Agricultural Animals.”
You may recall discussion has been held regarding this issue at various levels over the
past year. The Committee on Ordinances, at its September 20, 2016 meeting, was briefed
Planning Commission
April 18, 2017
OA02-017
Page 2 of 2
by staff in regards to the exploration of allowing backyard chickens within certain single
family residential zoning districts within the City. Staff presented the Planning
Commission with a report based on the Committee’s findings at their November 15,
2016, where, by a vote of 6-2, the Commission recommended pursuing amendments to
the UDO on this issue to City Council. City Council was presented a report with the
Planning Commission’s findings at their January 18, 2017, meeting and, by a vote of 7-1
has directed the Planning Commission to draft an ordinance that will allow the keeping of
chickens in selected residential zoning districts. When taking this action, City Council
specified that the following issues be considered when preparing this ordinance:
• Where to Expand - By Zoning Districts and or Minimum Lot Size
• Maximum Number and Gender
• Housing/Enclosure Requirements
• Location and Setback Requirements
• Animal Care and Biosecurity
• Nuisances
• Permitting and Licensing Requirements
The language presented for your consideration has been designed to incorporate
provisions that address the above criteria.
RECOMMENDATION
Based on the considerations as noted above, staff recommends approval of the proposed
text amendments.
The Committee on Ordinances, at their meeting of March 21, 2017 meeting, supported
the text amendments as proposed by staff, with revisions, and, by a vote of 4 to 0, passed
a motion to forward the proposed amendments to the Planning Commission for
consideration with the recommendation that they be approved.
Attachments
• Proposed Ordinance
• Exhibit A – Planning Commission Recommendation
• Exhibit B – Proposed Text Amendments
ORDINANCE NUMBER_____________
AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 31, UNIFIED DEVELOPMENT
ORDINANCE OF THE CODE OF THE CITY OF SUFFOLK, ARTICLE 7,
SUPPLEMENTAL USE REGULATIONS, SECTION 31-701, ACCESSORY
USES AND STRUCTURES, AND APPENDIX A, DEFINITIONS; OA02-17
WHEREAS, the City of Suffolk, Virginia has initiated the aforementioned amendments to
Chapter 31, Unified Development Ordinance, for the purpose of establishing definitions and
standards pertaining to the keeping of backyard chickens in the City of Suffolk; and,
WHEREAS, the specified amendments to the Unified Development Ordinance as shown in
Exhibit “B” are in compliance with the 2035 Comprehensive Plan, as adopted; and,
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission has made a recommendation as stated in Exhibit
"A"; and,
WHEREAS, the procedural requirements for the consideration of this request by the
Planning Commission have been met.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED by the Council of the City of Suffolk, Virginia,
that:
Section 1. That Exhibit “A,” “Planning Commission Recommendation,” and Exhibit “B,”
“Amendments to Chapter 31, Article 7, Supplemental Use Regulations, Section
31-701, Accessory Uses and Structures, and Appendix A, Definitions of the Code
of the City of Suffolk, Virginia,” which are attached hereto, are hereby incorporated
as part of this ordinance.
Section 2. That Chapter 31, Article 7, Supplemental Use Regulations, Section 31-701,
Accessory Uses and Structures, and Appendix A, Definitions of the Unified
Development Ordinance of the City of Suffolk, Virginia, is hereby amended to read
as referenced in Exhibit “B,” attached.
Section 3. All phrases, clauses, sentences, paragraphs, subsections, sections and chapters of
the Code not amended hereby remain in full force and effect.
This ordinance shall be effective upon passage and shall not be published.
READ AND PASSED:___________________________
TESTE:___________________________________
Erika S. Dawley, City Clerk
Approved as to Form:
_________________________________
Helivi L. Holland, City Attorney
Exhibit “A”
RESOLUTION NO. 17-04-4
CITY OF SUFFOLK PLANNING COMMISSION
A RESOLUTION TO PRESENT A REPORT AND RECOMMENDATION
TO CITY COUNCIL RELATING TO AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 31,
UNIFIED DEVELOPMENT ORDINANCE OF THE CODE OF THE CITY OF
SUFFOLK, ARTICLE 7, SUPPLEMENTAL USE REGULATIONS, SECTION 31-701,
ACCESSORY USES AND STRUCTURES, AND APPENDIX A, DEFINITIONS;
OA02-17
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Suffolk, Virginia has initiated the
aforementioned amendments to Chapter 31 of the Unified Development Ordinance for the
purpose of establishing definitions and standards pertaining to the keeping of backyard chickens
in the City of Suffolk; and
WHEREAS, the specified amendments to the Unified Development Ordinance as shown
in Exhibit “B” are in compliance with the 2035 Comprehensive Plan, as adopted; and
WHEREAS, the procedural requirements for the consideration of this request by the
Planning Commission have been met.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Planning Commission of the City of
Suffolk, Virginia, that:
Section 1. Findings.
The Suffolk Planning Commission finds that the proposed ordinance amendments are
reasonable and warranted.
Section 2. Recommendation to City Council.
The Planning Commission recommends to the City Council of the City of Suffolk,
Virginia that the proposed amendments be;
_____a. Adopted as submitted without modification.
_____b. Denied, and that Council not pass the proposed ordinance.
_____c. Adopted with the modifications set forth on the attached listing of specific
recommendations, and that Council adopt the proposed Ordinance with
such modifications.
READ AND ADOPTED:
TESTE:
“Exhibit B”
“Amendments to Chapter 31, Unified Development Ordinance,
Article 7, Supplemental Use Regulations, and
Appendix A, Definitions, of the
Code of the City of Suffolk, Virginia”
ARTICLE 7 – SUPPLEMENTAL USE REGULATIONS
SEC. 31-701. - ACCESSORY USES AND STRUCTURES.
(a) GENERALLY. Unless otherwise provided herein, accessory uses and structures shall be
permitted in any zoning district, but only in connection with, incidental to, and on the same
lot with a principal use or structure which is lawfully permitted within such district.
Accessory buildings or uses shall not be constructed or established on a lot until
construction of the principal building has been actually commenced or the primary use
established. Accessory buildings shall not be used for dwelling purposes, except as provided
in Subsection (b) of this Section.
(1) Detached accessory buildings shall not be located in the required front yard. Detached
accessory buildings may be built in the required rear yard but such accessory buildings
shall not occupy more than thirty percent (30%) of the required rear yard and shall not
be closer than five (5) feet to any side or rear lot line or setback line.
(2) Should the accessory building be located within the side yard, said building shall meet
all required side yard regulations of the applicable zoning district.
(3) Accessory buildings shall not exceed the height regulations of the zoning district within
any part of the buildable lot area or exceed by twenty-five percent (25%) the height of
the dwelling, whichever is less.
(4) Accessory buildings on through lots shall not be closer to either street than a distance
equal to the required front yard of such lot.
(b) ACCESSORY USES PERMITTED IN CONJUNCTION WITH RESIDENTIAL
USES. The following accessory uses shall be permitted in conjunction with residential uses:
…
(18) The keeping of backyard chickens shall be permitted only on lots developed with
detached single-family dwellings within the RL, Residential Low Density and RLM
Residential Low-Medium Density zoning districts in accordance with the following
provisions:
A. No more than six (6) backyard chickens shall be allowed for each detached single-
family dwelling. Backyard chickens allowed under this section shall only be raised
for domestic purposes and no commercial use such as selling eggs or selling
chickens for meat shall be allowed.
B. The minimum lot size for the keeping of backyard chickens shall be 15,000 square
feet.
C. No roosters shall be allowed.
D. There shall be no outside slaughtering of backyard chickens.
E. All backyard chickens must be kept in a backyard chicken enclosure that contains at
a minimum 10 square feet per bird. Backyard chicken enclosures shall consist of no
more than 100 square feet. The backyard chicken enclosure shall be fully enclosed
in a manner that prohibits the escape of the birds and deters the entry of other
animals.
F. Backyard chicken enclosures shall comply with the minimum setback and intensity
of use regulations for the principal dwelling unit as set forth in Section 31-407 of
this Ordinance, and shall be restricted to placement in the rear yard. Backyard
chicken enclosures shall be located no closer than 20 feet to any adjacent dwelling.
Backyard chicken enclosures are prohibited in any Chesapeake Bay Resource
Protection Areas (RPA) and must be placed outside of any easements located on the
property.
G. All backyard chicken enclosures must be kept in a neat and sanitary condition at all
times and must be cleaned on a regular basis so as to prevent offensive odors.
H. All feed for the backyard chickens shall be kept in a secure enclosed container or
location to prevent the attraction of rodents and other animals.
I. All persons must provide documentation that the backyard chickens to be kept
originate from a United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), National Poultry
Improvement Plan member hatchery.
J. All persons must complete the Virginia Livestock Premises Registration with the
Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) and provide
proof of said registration at the time of permit submittal.
(c) ACCESSORY USES PERMITTED IN CONJUNCTION WITH COMMERCIAL AND
INDUSTRIAL USES. The following accessory uses shall be permitted in conjunction with
commercial and industrial uses:
…
APPENDIX “A” – DEFINITIONS
…
AGRICULTURE: The use of land for a bona fide agricultural operation such as the raising of
crops, horticulture, the keeping of animal, bees, and fowl, or any other similar agricultural
activity, and including the customary accessory uses which are normally associated with such
activities.
AGRICULTURAL ANIMALS: The following animals are considered accessory agricultural
animals to an agricultural use, whether used for personal enjoyment or for commercial
purposes: horses, mules, burros, sheep, cattle, rabbits, chickens, ducks, geese, pigs, goats,
ostrich, emu or rhea. Backyard chickens, as defined in this appendix, shall not be classified as
agricultural animals.
AGRICULTURAL BUILDING: A structure utilized to store farm implements, hay, feed, grain
or other agricultural or horticultural products or to house poultry, livestock or other farm
animals. Such structure shall not include habitable or occupiable spaces, spaces in which
agricultural products are processed, treated or packaged, nor shall an agricultural building be a
place of occupancy by the general public. (Source: Uniform Statewide Building Code)
…
AWNING: An awning is an architectural projection that provides weather protection, identity
or decoration and is wholly supported by the building to which it is attached. An awning is
comprised of a lightweight, rigid skeleton structure over which a rigid covering is attached.
(Source: Uniform Statewide Building Code)
BACKYARD CHICKEN: A domestic chick or hen, not to include roosters, kept on a
residential lot within a permitted zoning district where allowed as an accessory use as specified
in Article 7, Section 31-701 of this Ordinance.
BACKYARD CHICKEN ENCLOSURE: A fully enclosed and stationary coop or pen used
for the purposes of confining backyard chickens to one property, to deter the attraction of
predators, rodents and other pests, and to prevent the birds from running at large.
BAR: Premises used primarily for the sale or dispensing of alcoholic beverages by the drink for
on-site consumption and where food may be available for consumption as an accessory use.
…
RESULTS OF THE
CITY COUNCIL
MEETING OF
March 15, 2017
A. REZONING REQUEST, RZ14-16, Subdivision of Childress Property, submitted by C.
Raeford Eure, L.S., Hoggard-Eure Associates, P.C., agent(s), on the behalf of John
Napolitano, Napolitano Homes, applicant(s), on the behalf of WOV Properties, LLC,
property owner(s), to rezone and amend the official zoning map of the City of Suffolk to
change the zoning from PD, Planned Development zoning district, to RU, Residential Urban
Approved zoning district, for property located at 115 Childress Street, Zoning Map 12, Parcel(s) 59.
The affected area is further identified as being located in the Sleepy Hole Voting Borough,
zoned PD, Planned Development zoning district. The 2035 Comprehensive Plan designates
this area as part of the Northern Growth Area, Inner Ring Suburban Use District.
B. CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT REQUEST, C09A-08, ATC# 283553 FAA Lighting
Change: submitted by Margaret Robinson, of American Towers, LLC, applicant(s), on the
behalf of Samuel G. Chapman, III, property owner(s), in accordance with Section(s) 31-306
and 31-406 of the Unified Development Ordinance, to amend the current Conditional Use
Withdrawn Permit in order to allow the removal of FAA Lighting from an existing telecommunication
tower, for property located at 1877 Ferry Point Road, Zoning Map 10, Parcel (s) 70. The
affected area is further identified as being located in the Chuckatuck Voting Borough, zoned
VC, Village Center zoning district. The 2035 Comprehensive Plan designates this area as
part of the Rural Conservation Use District.
C. CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT REQUEST, C16-16, Bennis Guest House: submitted by
Kevin and Stacey Bennis, applicant(s) and property owner(s), in accordance with Section(s)
31-306 and 31-406 of the Unified Development Ordinance, to grant a Conditional Use
Permit to establish an accessory dwelling, for property located at 6173 Knotts Creek Lane,
Approved Zoning Map 12A(1), Parcel (s) PT10. The affected area is further identified as being located
w/conditions in the Sleepy Hole Voting Borough, zoned RLM, Residential Low Medium Density zoning
district. The 2035 Comprehensive Plan designates this area as part of the Northern Growth
Area, Inner Ring Suburban Use District.
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