Planning Commission

11/10/2022 - Minutes I. Call to Order Members Present: Mike O’Brien, Chair; Abby Bleything, Vice-Chair; Joe Perron; Sarah van Ryckevorsel; Tommie Murray; Brendan Sage City Staff Present: Eric Vorwald Guests Present: Kristine Lott, Mayor; Bruce Wilson Call to Order by: Mike O’Brien Meeting Start Time: 6:30 PM Minutes Recorded by: Eric Vorwald II. Changes to the Agenda None III. Public Comment None IV. Approve Previous Meeting Minutes Decision: 4 - 0 Motion by: Brendan Second: Joe V. Continued Discussion on Article IV – Sections 4.1 through 4.12 Eric provided the Commissioners with an update on the draft language. He indicated that most of the text was unchanged from the previous meeting, but he would review several specific items that were discussed for consideration. He also indicated that he wanted to have a discussion on design review as a possible mechanism for reintroducing language that was previously included in an older version of the regulations. Eric began by clarifying the Public Works Standards for curb cuts and width and indicated that this standard included a minimum and maximum width. Joe indicated that one of the graphics had conflicting information. The Planning Commission discussed removing the graphics. Abby suggested that before the graphics were removed, we consult the Department of Public Works to determine if they have standards related to the graphics that could be referenced instead. Eric agreed to have this discussion with Public Works prior to the next meeting. Next, Eric provided an overview of Section 4.4 related to design review and indicated that, if this section was going to include information on incentives, it be moved to Article V, and Section 4.4 be reserved for a future discussion on design review. Eric also referenced the previous regulations that included design review language and stated that this could be used as a basis for adding design review requirements back. He also indicated that the intent was not to have a discussion on the design review language, but only to note that some of the work had already  Next, Eric provided an overview of Section 4.4 related to design review and indicated that, if this section was going to include information on incentives, it be moved to Article V, and Section 4.4 be reserved for a future discussion on design review. Eric also referenced the previous regulations that included design review language and stated that this could be used as a basis for adding design review requirements back. He also indicated that the intent was not to have a discussion on the design review language, but only to note that some of the work had already been completed. Mayor Lott reminded the Commissioners that this was not a Council priority therefore work on this section would need to be prioritized by Council before moving forward. Mike indicated that historic preservation was in the Planning Commission’s Work Plan and indicated that this could fit into that element. After some additional discussion, Eric returned to the draft text on incentives and provided background for several changes that were proposed. Following this, the Planning Commission continued with their review of Article IV. Eric introduced Section 4.12 related to parking and noted that Abby had provided significant input in the draft language. He also indicated that this was new language to review. The Planning Commission began their review with the minimum parking requirements and debated the minimum parking for specific uses. Changes were made based on the discussion. There was also a recommendation that Eric reach out to the school regarding the parking minimums that were provided for primary and secondary schools. Mike, noting the time, indicated that we were at a good place to stop for the night. All were in agreement. VI. City Updates Mayor Lott indicated that a joint meeting of the Municipal Infrastructure Commission and Finance Commission would be held next week as we prepare for budget presentations. She also noted that the City is looking for a representative to Town Meeting TV, and provided an update from the previous Council meeting including the awarding of ARPA funds and a presentation from the Winooski Hotel Group on their project for Lot 9. Mike gave kudos to all the City staff and volunteers that worked the polls at Tuesday’s election. Bruce thanked the Commissioners for letting him be a part of the discussion. Eric noted that City Hall would be closed in observance of Veteran’s Day. VII. Other Business Eric stated that the next meeting would be on December 8 th , and would be a hybrid meeting. VIII. Adjourn Motion by: Abby Second: Tommie Meeting End Time: 8:16 PM