HomeMy WebLinkAbout1997 12 03 Planning and Zoning Board Regular Minutes
MINUTES
PLANNING AND ZONING BOARDILPA
DECEMBER 3, 1997 - REGULAR MEETING
I. CALL TO ORDER. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
The Planning and Zoning Board/Local Planning Agency meeting was called to order Wednesday,
December 3, 1997 at 7:03 p.m. by Chairman Fernandez in the Municipal Building (City Hall, 1126
East State Road 434, Winter Springs, Florida). The Pledge of Allegiance followed.
ROLL CALL
Bill Fernandez, Chairman, present
Tom Brown, Vice Chairman, present
Gene Lein, present
Carl Stephens, present
Rosanne Karr, present
ALSO PRESENT
Tom Grimms, AICP, Comprehensive Planning/Zoning Coordinator
APPROVAL OF THE NOVEMBER 19. 1997 PLANNING & ZONING
BOARDILOCAL PLANNING AGENCY SPECIAL MEETING MINUTES
Motion by Gene Lein, second by Carl Stephens. The motion to adopt the minutes of November
19, 1997 was carried unanimously by consensus of the Board.
II. REGULAR AGENDA
A. Review of Draft Portion (Task 1. 01) Evaluation and Appraisal Report
Tom Grimms gave a presentation on this subject to the Board. He further elaborated on some of
the comments from staff..
Vice-Chairman Tom Brown expressed concern that "if the . staff reports change, on areas that
we've evaluated or reviewed, how are we going to handle that, or are you going to keep us
informed with an on-going staff reports"? Mr. Grimms responded by saying that "the board
meets, and they talk about it, and they so note something that they would have question on, and I
would attempt to explain it right at the meeting at the time, or if I couldn't, then to get back with
you by the next meeting, and then the minutes of the meeting, which probably has to be somewhat
detailed, would be at these times, will be the record of what the board has expressed concern
about" .
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There was discussion on the traffic circulation map. Board member Carl Stephens questioned it
being outdated, and Mr. Grimms explained why "it had to be that way" and explained how the
recommendations for revisions would be approved and implemented. Mr. Stephens made a
motion stating that "we would like those changes inserted into this document that we've already
made as the...as the P & Z BoardILPA and insert it into the Traffic Circulation Map". Discussion.
Chairman Bill Fernandez asked Mr. Grimms for the record "are we going to update our figures; is
that part of this process; are we going to be given new information"? Mr. Grimms replied, "Yes,
and that is as a future task...draft - one that you don't have right now".
Motion by Stephens. Second by Brown.
There was continued discussion as to historical perspective and the benefits and merits, if any, to
adding the amendments and modifications that have been accepted. It was determined that when
the consultants make their recommendations, to then include the changes.
The motion and second were respectively withdrawn.
Discussion regarding "rustic residential" classification, and how it differs from the Comprehensive
Plan ensued. Mr. Grimms explained the views of staff in this matter, especially in terms of
historical data. Discussion on this subject was tabled for the evening.
B. Discussion on Establishment of an Annexation Board.
Chairman Fernandez introduced a Memorandum from Charles C. Carrington, AICP, Community
Development Director for the City, and it was noted that all Board members had seen the
document.
Board member Gene Lein addressed this issue by saying that he does "understand that things like
that, the annexation of property, does come before the P & Z and the LP A, and we've done that.
But I'm thinking about an area that's a step before this. In other words, we all know that there are
pieces of property out there, intermingled in the City. You just take a look at the map over there
with all those white areas...that are unincorporated in the City, plus you have, jagged edges
around the City, and there are areas out there that could possibly be candidates to be annexed into
the City of Winter Springs". Mr. Lein continued and further stated that "if the City is satisfied
with what we have, and they feel that the tax base is sufficient, then we just leave well enough
alone. But, if there's a possibility of a larger tax base, which naturally would be an increase of
population, and a larger area, then something else has to be looked at".
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PLANNING AND ZONING BOARDILPA
DECEMBER 3, 1997. REGULAR MEETING
PAGE 3 OF6
Mr. Lein continued by saying that he wanted to recommend holding a number of discussions on
this issue, then passing on to the City Commission a "study" which would explain how this
proposed "Annexation Board" would operate. He felt that this proposed Board could be
organized along the lines of the Commerce & Industry Development Board, by meeting out in the
community. He continued by saying that he had been inquiring as to whether other municipalities
had a similar Board (Annexation), and although no other municipality did have an Annexation
Board; he did find out that the City of Casselberry had a "paid legal consultant that deals with
people in the unincorporated areas of Casselberry, and brings that information of interest, or non-
interest, back to the P & Z board, for possible discussion and action".
Mr. Lein felt that if the City of Winter Springs did have an Annexation Board, they could
concentrate on gaining the interest of parties not currently affiliated with the City; and already
established commercial areas in the City could schedule breakfast or luncheon meetings with this
Board to review the many benefits of being associated with the City.
Board member Lein then asked that further discussion be opened up, and that if anything evolved,
then it could be forwarded on to the City Commission. Mr. Grimms explained some of the
functions and goals of the City's Commerce and Industry Development Board. He also elaborated
on some of the duties that Pat Grant, the consultant for the City of Casselberry, was responsible
for.
Mr. Grimms then showed the Board a large (colorized) map of the City of Winter Springs and the
surrounding City's and land available to possibly be annexed. He further elaborated on which
areas the City was very interested in annexing; and he also pointed out certain areas that other
neighboring City's were trying to annex. There was much discussion on various areas shown on
the map, and subdivisions including Battle Ridge.
Board member Rosanne Karr asked Mr. Grimms if it was "part of your job to go out and find
these pieces of property, or does someone tell you to look into this area, and check into who
owns it?" Mr. Grimms replied that it was currently his job now.
Chairman Fernandez asked how we acquired the map, and Mr. Grimms explained that the basis of
the map came from Seminole County. Chairman Fernandez wanted to clarifY that when we put
on the Agenda, Discussion of Establishment of an Annexation Board, that the staff...Mr.
Carrington...feels that that would be taking away from...our charter guideline ordinance type
duties, statutory duties as a P & Z Board and LP A". He continued by saying "we cannot delegate
our duties in...making LPA decisions as to future land use, nor can we delegate our duties in the
zoning area, which is clearly pointed out by the letter that we received, dated December 3, 1997".
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PLANNING AND ZONING BOARDILPA
DECEMBER 3, 1997 - REGULAR MEETING
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Chairman Fernandez further continued with "We took an oath so to speak, or an obligation when
we took this seat, to fulfill those duties and we cannot relinquish those, and I think it would cause
problems if we actively went out and solicited people, because it would interfere with our duty to
be neutral and impartial and make a decision based on information presented to us a public
hearing" .
Mr. Lein elaborated for the record, "I would just like to clarify - that...that...that definitely was
not my intention. of involving us in with that type of...occupation. if you want to call it that. or
Board. The reason I brought it up is because this is the only vehicle that's close to the subject, to
bring it before the city". He continued that he definitely know that I'm not talking about this
Board to use that function. But I just went through my notes; we're talking about establishment
of a different type of..group of people, not us. Because what Charles says in here is definitely
true - it does eventually end up in our laps but I'm looking in front of what he says, although I'm
looking to getting the ball rolling. to get some annexation movement. And then when it's time to
come before us. we do our proper job".
There was further discussion. Chairman Fernandez and Mr. Lein both discussed how the format
of the Commerce and Industry Development Board could possibly be used. however. residential
concerns must also be taken into consideration. Mr. Lein said that he does not feel "that it is
moving fast enough, because if you read the paper every day. there's a City around you that is
annexing left and right. and Winter Springs isn't really moving that fast. I don't think".
Mr. Grimms did respond that other cities. like Oviedo, are in fact annexing property in certain
areas of the county, as there are sizable tracts of land that developers are building on, but, that a
lot of Winter Springs is built up. He also explained that the impact fee structure is very
competitive throughout the county. And that a lot of developers and builders are very savvy and
often "shop" around for the best deal.
Mr. Brown voiced his opinion that he did not feel that a separate board needed to be established.
He also mentioned that it would be nice if all of the Board Members could get a copy of the map
that Mr. Grimms used to illustrate the different City boundaries, and that as a future agenda item,
the Board would like to be apprised of ongoing City progress, so that "we could be prepared for
zoning in the different areas. which is our responsibilities, and to be informed as to what the City
is doing in these areas". He also mentioned how important communication was, and how he felt
that the City, especially since Mr. McLemore had come aboard, that improvements have been
made, and he spoke of several industrial areas along Highway 17/92 that did belong to the City,
and that probably not too many people knew about, and he also commended Mr. McLemore and
the City for the improvements that have been made.
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PLANNING AND ZONING BOARDILPA
DECEMBER 3, 1997 - REGULAR MEETING
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Ms. Karr felt that there should be more emphasis placed on the annexation of certain areas that
the City was interested in, and she wanted to know "What is the City doing actively to market the
City"? Mr. Grirnms mentioned some projects that were gearing up, like "Battle Ridge". Ms. Karr
also asked if the City was more interested in annexing properties to be used primary for residential
or commercial use. Mr. Grimms answered that although there was no definite preference, his
suggestion would be to vary the tax base with the acquiring of more commercial land, and he gave
some examples. There was further discussion.
Motion: "I'll make to put a motion on the floor that...we pass on to the Commission for review
of our discussion for consideration of an establishment of the City Annexation Board to assist the
City".
Motion by Lein. Discussion.
Amended Motion: "I believe that you were trying to make a motion to have the City
Commission evaluate this map and our discussion this evening, with the idea of creating...a task
force, and/or a Board to consider the expansion ofvarious...ofthe city limits of Winter Springs".
A mended Motion by Chairman Fernandez. The motion died/or a lack 0/ a second
Mr. Brown asked if the City Manager could attend an upcoming Planning and Zoning Board
meeting to update the Board on potential land acquisitions. Chairman Fernandez also suggested
that prior to Mr. McLemore speaking to the Board, that possibly Mr. Carrington, Director of
Community Development could speak to the Board prior to Mr. McLemore, and/or have both
Mr. McLemore and Mr. Carrington both address the Board. There was further discussion about
this, but no actual action was taken to make the request.
Chairman Fernandez stated that he was "favorably impressed by Mr. Grimms' indications of what
is to come, as far as expansion and acquisition is concerned". He also elaborated on how he felt
that the Board was being provided with professional staff support and assistance.
Mr. Lein stated for the record "What I don't appreciate about this action tonight was, we received
a memorandum on the discussion that was to be held. From staff, we received a comment from
the City Manager on what was to be held by the P & Z Board. I don't appreciate that". Chairman
Fernandez asked for clarification, "What was...to be held". Mr. Lein elaborated that "it was not a
discussion, it was just the agenda item, and we were told in your conversation with the City
Manager, this situation would be fought by him tooth and nail...before anything was even
discussed". Mr. Lein further said, "I just want it to be known that pre-judgments were made
before any word was even mentioned...by the staff, and by the City Manager".
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PLANNING AND ZONING BOARD/LPA
DECEMBER 3, 1997 - REGULAR MEETING
PAGE60F6
Mr. Brown mentioned that he felt that there has indeed been progress and turnaround in the past
five years, and that requests by the Board are being handled properly by Staff. He also stated that
he did feel that the City Manager should be asked to meet with this Board.
Chairman Fernandez suggested that the Board address and review the City's status and growth
progress in approximately six months, at the first meeting in May. Mr. Lein agreed with this also.
Mr. Grimms further addressed the issue of annexation and spoke of enclaves in the area.
Chairman Fernandez again brought up the request of another Board Member for copies of the
large colorized map, and videos (such as "How a city attracts businesses"...) that could be
borrowed? Mr.Grimms said that he would check into both these matters. Again, the subject of
having Mr. McLemore and Mr. Carrington attend an upcoming Board meeting was discussed and
all Board Members were in consensus about this. Mr. Grimms said that he would take care of
requesting Mr. Carrington and Mr. McLemore to attend the second meeting in January.
FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS
January 7. 1998 Meeting
A. Review of Preliminary EngineeringlFinal Subdivision Plan for Wagner Station PUD
B. Battle Ridge Property Rezoning (REZ-I-98)
January 21. 1998 Meeting
A. Discussion with Mr. Ronald W. McLemore, City Manager, and Mr. Charles C. Carrington,
Community Development Director
B. Review of Draft Portion (Task 1.01) of Evaluation and Appraisal Report (EAR)
(EAR vs. The Comp Plan, Recreation and Open Space Element, pages 32 - 38
IV. ADJOURNMENT
Chairman Fernandez adjourned the meeting at 8:57 p.m. with consensus of the Board.
Minutes respectfully submitted by: Andrea Lorenzo-Luaces, Deputy City Clerk
City of Winter Springs, Florida
BOARDSlplaminglfY97/minuteslI20397.doc