Planning Commission

11/7/2019 - Minutes I. 6:00 P.M. Site Visit Session II. 6:45 P.M. Call to Order Members Present: Mike O’Brien, Joe Perron, Sarah van Ryckevorsel City Staff Present: Mayor Kristine Lott, Eric Vorwald Guests Present: Adam Frazier Call to Order by: Mike O’Brien at 6:47pm Minutes Recorded by: Eric Vorwald III. Changes to the Agenda Eric requested adding an item to formally cancel the November 14th meeting of the Planning Commission. All agreed to take up the question following “Other Business”. IV. Public Comment None V. Approve Previous Meeting Minutes Decision: 3 - 0 Motion by: Joe Second: Sarah Motion to approve the minutes as presented. VI. Review of Form Based Code Architectural Standards Eric provided an overview of the document in the agenda related to the architectural standards of the Form-Based Code. He noted that Part 6 of the code specifically discusses architectural standards such as treatments of windows and building materials, but there are sections in Part 4 that also relate to architectural standards such as the building height and maximum footprint size. The Planning Commission discussed specific aspects of architectural standards such as ensuring fenestration is spread throughout a first floor to limit disproportionately small windows set at the top of the wall creating a blank space on the lower end. The Planning Commission also discussed the possibility of stepping back upper stories to create a distinct first floor when a non-residential use is proposed. Additionally, there was discussion related to façade materials to help create interest and distinguish uses in mixed use buildings. Finally, the Planning Commission discussed the various options for roof types to ensure there were not limits to architectural creativity in the building design. Eric noted that he would prepare updates to the text for discussion at a future meeting. VII. Review of Form Based Code Siting Standards and Follow-up on Walking Tour Eric provided an overview of the previous conversations related to siting standards. There was also discussion about the walking tour in relation to what is being proposed. The Commission was interested in updated language to allow more flexibility in design and “step- backs” along building façades. Eric noted that there would need to be coordination with the language related to the step backs for façades versus potential step backs for upper stories. He noted that he would review the information and provide a follow-up at the next meeting. VIII. Department and City Updates Eric provided an update on draft zoning changes for the City of South Burlington related to affordable housing, he noted that the Chittenden County Housing Council Convening was cancelled due to conflicts with other meetings, he provided an update on the DRB meeting related to the appeal of the zoning permit for the Main & Mansion Apartments, and provided information related to an Act 250 permit for 211 thru 225 Main Street redevelopment. Mayor Lott provided information related to the City Council discussion on redevelopment of Lot 7D in Downtown. IX. Other Business The Planning Commission agreed to cancel the regularly scheduled meeting on November 14th.  Eric provided an update on draft zoning changes for the City of South Burlington related to affordable housing, he noted that the Chittenden County Housing Council Convening was cancelled due to conflicts with other meetings, he provided an update on the DRB meeting related to the appeal of the zoning permit for the Main & Mansion Apartments, and provided information related to an Act 250 permit for 211 thru 225 Main Street redevelopment. Mayor Lott provided information related to the City Council discussion on redevelopment of Lot 7D in Downtown. IX. Other Business The Planning Commission agreed to cancel the regularly scheduled meeting on November 14th. X. Adjourn Adjourn Motion by: Joe Second: Sarah Time: 8:16pm