HomeMy WebLinkAboutBOA Packet 6.15.16.pdfMINUTES PRELIMINARY
BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT
APRIL 13, 2016 – 5:15 PM
EMMA J. HARVAT HALL, CITY HALL
MEMBERS PRESENT: Larry Baker, Gene Chrischilles, Connie Goeb, Tim Weitzel
MEMBERS ABSENT: Becky Soglin
STAFF PRESENT: Susan Dulek, Sarah Walz
OTHERS PRESENT: Brian Flynn, Pat Barta, Aaron Doubet
CALL TO ORDER:
The meeting was called to order at 5:15 PM.
ROLL CALL:
A brief opening statement was read by Baker outlining the role and purpose of the Board and
the procedures that would be followed the meeting.
CONSIDERATION OF THE MARCH 9, 2016 MEETING MINUTES:
Chrischilles moved to approve the minutes of March 9, 2016.
Weitzel seconded the motion.
A vote was taken and the motion passed 4-0.
SPECIAL EXCEPTION ITEM (EXC16-00002):
Discussion of an application for a special exception submitted on behalf of Joe's Place to allow
a Rooftop Service Area for property located in the Central Business District (CB-10)zone at
115 and 117 IowaAvenue.
Walz began the staff report showing an aerial view of the property indicating the zoning
designations of the surrounding properties. Joe’s Place consists of three store fronts and the
proposed rooftop service area is above two of those, 115 and 117 Iowa Avenue. The opposite
side of Iowa Avenue and Clinton Street is the P-2 zone, which is the University of Iowa. Other
surrounding areas are CB-10 zones.
Walz explained this is the first application the Board has received under this new ordinance to
allow rooftop service areas. The subject property is in the Downtown District and CB-10 zone.
The purpose of the CB-10 zone is to allow for a wide range of retail, service, office and high
density residential uses and to support a healthy and vibrant commercial area and allow the
development of a mix of uses often with residential or office uses above store front commercial
uses. Walz noted that in 2015 the Zoning Code was amended to allow rooftop service areas
(RSA) as an accessory use in a number of zones and each of those zones has its own criteria
Board of Adjustment
April 13, 2016
Page 2 of 12
for the standards it has to meet to be allowed. In the CB-10 zone RSAs are allowed
provisionally for hospitality oriented uses (hotels), commercial recreational, and eating
establishments (restaurants). RSAs for drinking establishments (bars) are allowed under the
special exception process. Joe’s Place is a drinking establishment.
RSAs are an accessory use—an outdoor gathering space on the rooftop, or upper floor terrace
of a building that is open to the public. If the RSA is an accessory to an establishment that is
licensed by the State to sell alcohol it is considered a type of outdoor service area, so that
brings in additional regulations that have to do with the serving of alcohol. So there can be a
RSA that doesn’t serve alcohol, but when it is a rooftop service area that does serve alcohol a
number of other provisions apply.
The applicant, Joe’s Place, is seeking a special exception to allow a rooftop service area above
the existing drinking establishment. Walz showed photos and sketches of the building and
where the RSA would be and the views of the surrounding areas. The applicant is proposing to
construct a wooden deck on the rooftops of 115 and 117 Iowa Avenue to provide a little over
1200 square feet of open air seating. The proposed area will be elevated slightly above the
existing roof, so that the floor area will be even across the rooftop of the two buildings. They will
be using some of the 2nd floor area of the building at 115 Iowa Avenue to create the necessary
restrooms, and the service area of the bar (where the employees would be) is in the interior of
the building as well (so it can be locked up at night) but all the area where the customers will be
served is on the exterior of the building. The proposed RSA would serve concession style food
and beverages and the proposed hours of operation would be 3 pm to 2 am with no amplified
sound after midnight. Amplified sound is permitted on the exterior of the building for rooftop
service areas by temporary permit only and live music is not permitted.
Walz next discussed the specific standards. The RSA shall meet all building and fire code
requirements, be ADA compliant, include elevator service, and have accessible restrooms
provided. There will be an elevator to make the RSA handicap accessible. The route back to
the elevator from the ground floor will be inspected at the time the building inspections are done
to confirm it is an accessible route. Access to the second floor will be via an interior stairwell
and the elevator. In terms of emergency egress there is an outdoor stairwell that would go
down by the exterior beer garden at the back of 119 Iowa Avenue. Customers won’t have
access to the interior of the building but it is possible if there was an emergency there is an
additional stairwell that is shared by a neighboring building that could be accessed as well.
The RSA shall be designed in an attractive manner that will not detract from adjacent uses, and
will prevent nuisance and safety issues. The site plan that was provided shows the layout of the
proposed RSA and Walz showed some views of the outside of the buildings and explained how
the RSA would be constructed and laid out. The RSA will be setback 40 feet from the front of
the building and there will be 4 foot tall metal panels so it won’t be visible from the street. The 5-
foot metal panels will also be installed on the parapet wall so the RSA will be screened from the
views of the buildings to the east. Along the remaining perimeter area, railings 4 feet in height
will prevent customers from falling or entering onto other rooftop areas or adjacent structures.
Walz also noted that the property at 113 Iowa Avenue has no upper floor use.
The RSA shall be located directly adjacent to or above the use to which it is accessory and
there shall not be other uses located on floors in between the RSA and the use to which it is
accessory. This RSA is directly above the bar area at 115 and 117 Iowa Avenue and there are
no other uses located between.
Board of Adjustment
April 13, 2016
Page 3 of 12
The RSA must be set back from adjacent upper floor uses and the edge of the roof and
screened and completely enclosed within a decorative fence or wall. Walz confirmed that is the
case on the eastern wall of the building that will face towards the Basta building.
The proposed RSA must be set back a minimum of 10 feet from the street facing edge of the
roof. Walz confirmed it will be setback more than 40 feet from the street facing edge.
The lighting must comply with the Outdoor Lighting Standards. Walz noted typically this is
included in the special exception because it is a requirement of the special exception. The
lighting plan has not been submitted yet but will be as part of the building permit process and it
must comply with the City standards.
No signs shall be allowed in or on the exterior wall or fence of the RSA that are within public
view. Walz explained that no signs are being proposed for the RSA, the applicant has indicated
that there may be television screens in the area around the bar but those should not be visible
from the public street or the adjacent residential.
For RSAs that are also outdoor service areas there must be an RSA management plan in place
and at least one employee must be designated to monitor the safety and compliance of the RSA
during hours of operation. Walz showed the Board the management plan that was submitted
with the application and it indicates the hours of operation, no amplified sound after midnight, all
customers will be carded at entry to the bar, all customers will only be able to access the rooftop
from the interior stairs or elevator, and at least two to eight employees will staff the upper bar at
all times and there will be a floating crowd control manager that monitors the entire bar. To
ensure that the RSA is managed appropriately over time, the City Code states that if nuisance
or safety issues arise, the City may require immediate changes to the management plan and/or
the number of monitors to remedy the situation and reserves the right to suspend or revoke the
RSA permit. Staff recommends reiterating this as a condition of the special exception. This is
important so that the condition is clear to the current owner, but also any future owner as the
RSA is allow to transfer with ownership.
In the CB-10 zone, where the building containing the RSA abuts or is directly across a public
alley from a property containing upper floor residential uses or hotel rooms that have windows
facing the RSA there are limits on the hours of operations. In this case the alley to the rear is
not a public alley, it is a private alley.
If alcohol is being served, food service must be provided. Prior to approval of an RSA, the
applicant must submit evidence indicating how this requirement will be met. In this situation the
applicant intends to sell food concession style, so people would order at the bar area, food
would be available in RSA but not in the lower floors of the bar.
Dulek explained the noise conditions, starting with amplified sound. The way the ordinance
reads is amplified sound is not allowed at all, only by a temporary use permit. Therefore from
the Board’s standpoint, the Board cannot limit amplified sound, because it does not exist. Non
amplified sound is allowed, but there must be a plan by the applicant to address the noise. The
temporary use permit will be a City Staff decision, and it will be an annual permit review that
Staff can revoke at any time if there are nuisance issues. The Board has no jurisdiction over
that.
Goeb asked if amplified sound is permitted by the temporary use permit, why live music is not
allowed. Dulek said that was discussed during the ordinance approval process last year but did
not know the specifics.
Board of Adjustment
April 13, 2016
Page 4 of 12
Walz continued and discussed other noise outside of amplified sound. Given the distance of
this RSA and other adjacent upper floor uses, the screening to the east, and that the CB-10
zone is a zone where a certain amount of noise is anticipated, it will not create a significant
disturbance to the neighborhood.
Dulek noted the ordinance states the design of the RSA must minimize the area of noise, so it
must be designed with that in mind.
Chrischilles asked if there were apartments above the Basta restaurant. Walz confirmed there
were, and that is why the screening will be mounted on the parapet wall on the east of the RSA.
Walz noted additional special exception approval criteria for nonconforming drinking
establishments. An RSA accessory to a nonconforming drinking establishment may be allowed
by special exception provided it meets the general approval criteria and the additional approval
criteria The RSA shall be located directly above and contiguous to the licensed drinking
establishment. This RSA meets that requirement, it is directly above the bar.
There shall be no horizontal expansion of the licensed drinking establishment.The proposed
RSA is located above the existing bar area. There is no horizontal expansion of theuse.
There shall be no increase in interior floor area or interior occupant load. This is met, all of the
customers, except those using the restroom (which is an allowable exception) will be on the
exterior of the building as shown on the floor plan.
Walz noted the general standards follow through from the specific standards, and can answer
questions about those if needed. She noted general criteria number 3: the establishment of the
specific proposed exception will not impede the normal and orderly development and
improvement of the surrounding property for uses permitted in the zone in which such property
is located. That is not just for what is currently there, but what could be in the area in the future.
The subject property is located in the Central Business District of the Downtown District and it is
intended to allow for high density mixed uses and to be an entertainment area in Iowa City. The
zone is intended to provide a healthy and vibrant commercial core with a mix of uses. RSAs
were added as an allowed use in the zone in order to obtain more diverse seasonal
opportunities similar to what the City has with sidewalk cafes. Staff believes with appropriate
controls and amplified sound administered through a temporary use permit the proposed use
would be compatible with surrounding development and would be an attractive development to
the downtown environment. Walz stated that this is addressed in the Comprehensive Plan, that
this be a vibrant area. Downtown is a growing area with lots of activities and as the population
grows and the university grows, providing new and unique venues is a good thing for downtown.
Staff is recommending approval of EXC16-00002, a special exception to allow at Rooftop
Service Area in the Central Business (CB-10) zone located above 115 and 117 Iowa Avenue
subject to the following conditions:
•Substantial compliance with the site plan submitted.
•No solid roof shall be constructed over any portion of the outdoor service area.
•Amplified sound is allowed by temporary use permit only.
•No live music or live performance permitted.
•A lighting plan must be in compliance with the Zoning Ordinance and approved by
the Building Official prior to issuance of a building permit.
•Handicapped accessible routes must be maintained between the front entrance and
elevator and between the elevator and second floor restrooms.
Board of Adjustment
April 13, 2016
Page 5 of 12
•Substantial compliance with the management plan, requiring no fewer than 2
employees present on the rooftop at all times, and one crowd control manager for the
entire bar/business.
•As per City Code, if nuisance or safety issues arise, the City may require
immediate changes to the management plan and/or the number of monitors to
remedy the situation and may suspend or revoke the Outdoor Service Area
permit.
•Food service must be provided during all hours of operation.
Baker noted for the audience that the Board has no preparation meetings, so this is the only
opportunity the Board has to ask questions about the report in front of them. The Board is not
allowed to talk to the public or each other regarding this application outside of this meeting.
Chrischilles asked about the railings that will be 4 feet in height, what material will they be
composed of and how are they constructed. Walz showed on the applicant’s packet a rendering
of the material and fencing that will be used for the railings.
Goeb asked how the hours of the RSA are decided upon and Walz explained those are the
allowable hours for a bar under the ordinance, and the currently hours of operation for Joe’s
Place. Goeb asked if Joe’s Place was to change their hours of operation, would that also
change the hours of operation for the RSA. Walz said yes, if the Board does not restrict the
RSA. Dulek noted that 10 am is the earliest a RSA can be open and 2 am is the latest under
the Code.
Chrischilles asked if the RSA would be a non-smoking area. Walz confirmed it would be non-
smoking.
Chrischilles noted that on page 4 of the report, item number 2, it refers to “The portion of the
outdoor seating area located above 115 Iowa Avenue is set back approximately 30 feet from the
rear of the building. Screening is not indicated in this area, which overlooks a private alley.” And
wondered why there would be no screening back there. Walz said that portion of the roof will
have railings, and a large portion of the area will be screened by the elevator structure. She
also noted there is only a small part of seating in that area, most of the roof in that area will be
preserved for the HVAC units.
Goeb questioned the sturdiness of the roof with all the extra weight. Walz explained that will the
construction of the decking on top of the roof, it is almost as if they are constructing a whole new
roof that will support the additional weight.
Chrischilles asked about the standard that states “Amplified sound may be restricted or
prohibited during public events, festivals or concerts” and who determines if it will be restricted.
Dulek said the City could restrict amplified sound during times like Jazz Fest and will be noted in
the temporary use permit. Chrischilles asked how that would be enforced. Dulek said they
temporary use permit holders would be notified when the City is restricting or prohibiting their
amplified sound.
Chrischilles noted that City Staff are the only ones that can issue the temporary use permit for
amplified sound, and questioned then if City Staff could alter the permit to allow amplified sound
past midnight, or make if end at a time earlier than midnight. Dulek said that the ordinance
approved by Council says that midnight is the latest, but a temporary permit could be issued
that states amplified sound must end prior to midnight. Chrischilles asked if the Board felt that
Board of Adjustment
April 13, 2016
Page 6 of 12
midnight was too late, do they have any authority to enforce that. Dulek said the concern can
be noted in the minutes, but cannot be part of the exception.
Goeb asked how it came about that sidewalk cafes that serve alcohol have more leniency than
what is being issued to the RSA. Walz commented that the sidewalk cafes do have restrictions
placed on them in terms of hours of operation and amplified sound, and are on an annual permit
system. Dulek noted that sidewalk cafes are on City right-of-ways and not on private property
so they are regulated through an annual easement agreement and they pay for the use of that
space. Walz noted the RSA will require the property owner to make a significant financial
investment into their property and therefore it was decided they should not be on a yearly permit
basis.
Baker asked why amplified sound is allowed but not lived music. Dulek answered that was a
decision the Council made in passing this ordinance. Baker asked about other live performance.
Dulek confirmed that the Code only says “no live music” and Walz said they added the condition
of no live performance given the scale of the RSA in this application. The Board can decide to
remove that condition.
Baker asked if they could install televisions on the RSA, and Walz confirmed they may. Baker
asked if the volume of the televisions would be a separate issue than the volume of the
amplified sound. Walz said that would be considered amplified sound. Baker asked if the
televisions would be wired into the sound system. Walz said either way it is considered
amplified sound. Dulek said the volume of the televisions will be enforced through the
temporary use permit.
Baker pointed out under the design criteria “The RSA shall be designed in an attractive manner
that will not detract from adjacent uses, and will prevent nuisance and safety issues. The
applicant shall submit a design plan with the application for an RSA that, at a minimum,
specifies and illustrates the proposed size, dimensions, setbacks from adjacent buildings and
roof edges, occupancy load, layout, landscaping elements, access routes, elevator, and
accessible bathrooms. RSAs shall meet the following minimum standards. If a special
exception is required, the board of adjustment may impose additional or more restrictive
conditions to mitigate any anticipated externalities, including, but not limited to,
restrictions on hours of operation, lighting, size, occupancy load, and setback and
screening requirements.” Baker questioned why the Board has purview to change all other
conditions except sound amplification. Dulek confirmed that the ordinance is written such that
the Board is not allowed to consider amplified sound, that the City Council wished for that to be
an administrative decision.
Chrischilles asked about the temporary use permit, and when that would be issued. Dulek said
that after the Board makes a decision, regardless of the decision, no amplified sound is allowed.
If the RSA applicant wishes to have amplified sound, they must apply for a temporary use
permit. Other examples of temporary use permits used around Iowa City are for the fall Regina
Fun Festival, or for the HyVee lawn centers. These temporary permits are for a use that is not
normally allowed in the zoning code, and the zoning code does not allow a RSA to have
amplified sound. Therefore the only way to get amplified sound is to obtain a temporary use
permit. A temporary use permit is not a special exception, a special exception is permanent
whereas a temporary use permit has a finite time limit.
Baker asked how the City will measure the grounds for revoking a temporary use permit. Dulek
noted she would find the provision in the Code and share it with the Board. Chrischilles asked
Board of Adjustment
April 13, 2016
Page 7 of 12
about the rooftop at FilmScene and Walz said that was different because it is not a drinking
establishment. It is an entertainment venue, not a restaurant or bar.
Baker noted also in the standards it notes “Amplified sound may be restricted or prohibited
during public events, festivals or concerts” and asked if the applicant is operating the sound
system at a level that was approved by the staff in the temporary use permit, why would it be
prohibited during these other events. Dulek noted they could say no amplified sound at all
during such events as Jazz Fest or Arts Fest. Baker questions then if it can’t be used during
those events because it can be heard and interfere with those events, then why allow it at all.
Dulek said it will depend on the event and the RSA location as to whether it will interfere with
other events. She noted that is why they use the temporary use permit process, because of its
flexibility.
Baker opened the public hearing and asked the applicant to come forward to address and
answer questions of the Board.
Brian Flynn (Joe’s Place) began by stating the difference between a drinking establishment (that
serves food) and a restaurant (that serves alcohol) is that a drinking establishment is open until
2 am. Restaurant licenses only allow them to be open until midnight.
Chrischilles asked if this particular RSA is for a drinking establishment. Walz and Flynn both
confirmed that was correct. Walz noted that is why it requires a special exception.
Goeb asked about the hours of operation. She noted a drinking establishment can be open
from the hours of 6 am to 2 am but wondered what the hours of Joe’s Place are. Flynn
responded that currently they open at noon, perhaps earlier on weekends especially on football
weekends which can sometimes be as early at 8 am. Goeb asked then what the hours of the
RSA would be, it appears in the report to be from 3 pm to 2 am. Walz said that was part of the
management plan submitted by the applicant. Flynn noted there are several items in that
management plan that do not work for their business operations.
The two employees on the rooftop at all times logistically doesn’t work if there isn’t the business
on the rooftop to support the need for two employees up there. Goeb asked more specifically
about the hours of operation for the RSA and with respect to football game Saturdays. Flynn
noted that for special events, such as football games, they might open the RSA earlier than 3
pm. Walz confirmed that if the Board approves this application without restrictions, the applicant
can have the RSA open anytime within their normal hours of operation.
Chrischilles asked how the applicant would monitor the number of people on the rooftop. Flynn
said they use security to make sure they stay within the limits of the occupancy of the area. It
will be easily controlled since there is a single set of stairs up to the area.
Chrischilles noted that the applicant has done a good job with their proposal and planning.
However he is bothered by a couple of items. One being since this is on a roof, there is a safety
concern. The other issue is the amplified sound, however the Board has no jurisdiction on that
issue. In terms of the safety, he is concerned about the 4 foot railings and they look as if they
could easily be climbed over. Flynn noted that is the basic idea of what will be used, however
they will likely use something with more screening because the view of the HVAC systems is not
attractive. He noted that his establishment 30 Hop in Coralville has never had an issue with
someone trying to climb over the rail. Chrischilles noted the clientele is different. Walz noted
that the Board can impose conditions on the special exception to state certain materials are
used for the railings, or they must be at a certain height.
Board of Adjustment
April 13, 2016
Page 8 of 12
Chrischilles asked how far is the edge of this RSA with respect to the beer garden below (in
terms of throwing things). Walz showed the area, the RSA is directly above the beer garden.
Pat Barta (contractor) noted that with regards to the screening, the architect didn’t totally
understand where the contractor wanted the perforated fence. The perforated fence is
supposed to run across the back of the RSA to screen the HVAC equipment. He also noted
there would be a masonry wall behind the bar area.
Weitzel asked if they discussed with the architects the sound ending properties of the screening
that is indicated on the drawings.
Aaron Doubet (DB Acoustics, Marion, Iowa) said the actual panel in the railing would not control
sound very well, but if there are issues an absorbent panel for sound control can be sandwiched
between the perforated panels.
Baker asked if there would be a maximum sound level set that staff could not go above. Doubet
said they would set an adaptive volume level with a maximum, he can put microphones in the
space that will measure the ambient noise of the space and that can control individual speakers.
So for example if the north end of the RSA is populated heavily the speakers in that area will
automatically be raised to a level predetermined above the ambient noise level, but other
speakers on the RSA will not change. The system is programmed so staff do not need to worry
about changes. There will be an override to turn it off, but not necessarily to turn it back on.
Doubet noted that with regards to the televisions, the sound is only controlled through the sound
system, it is not controlled at individual televisions. This will control from having a blaring
television, it is hard-wired controlled through the sound system. So the same standards and
systems that apply to the music volumes will apply to the television volumes.
Baker asked if the music upstairs would be the same music as downstairs. Doubet said it
doesn’t have to be, it can be completely separate or tie in.
Doubet also explained that with the sound system they can direct sound certain ways. Where
Basta and the apartments above are, no sound will be directed towards that area, all sound will
be transferred away.
Baker asked about exit safety from the RSA and if an employee has to access the exterior
emergency exit to get people out. Barta explained that the existing outdoor patio has an 8 foot
fence that has a crash bar system for emergency exit. On the roof they will have a similar
system, there will be a gate to the exterior stairs that will have the crash bar system. Those
exterior stairs egress into the private alley. Flynn noted that staff monitors those exits to make
sure people aren’t entering through those emergency exits. Baker asked about stairway widths.
Barta explained that the Code requires a minimum width for stairways depending on the
occupancy.
Weitzel asked about monitoring occupancies and the management plan, which states a
minimum of two people. Flynn responded that the number of staff on the RSA will depend on
the number of occupants. Dulek said the owner/applicant can decide what the adequate
management plan is and there is a need for reasonable flexibility. If the reasonable
expectations are not met, they may not be able to get the temporary use permit or alcohol
permit.
Board of Adjustment
April 13, 2016
Page 9 of 12
Goeb indicated the part of the staff report where it says “while staff is not aware of any proposed
heat sources being proposed at this time, heat sources would berequiredto meet FireCode and
Building Code, andwould beinspected” and wanted to verify that if the applicant wanted to add
propane heaters to the rooftop it would have to meet the Fire Codes. Flynn noted that at 30
Hop in Coralville they do have the propane heaters and the sprinkler system on the roof covers
that area. Walz said this language was added just for assurance that if an heat source or open
flame was added, Fire Codes would be followed, the applicant has not indicated they will use
propane heaters at this time.
Baker asked about the rooftop space and if there would be dancing space on the rooftop. Flynn
said that every year when they apply for a liquor license they need to indicate whether or not
there will be dancing at the establishment. Barta noted the floor construction would not change
if there were to be dancing, the proposed design could handle that activity.
Baker closed the public hearing.
Dulek replied to the earlier question of revocation and enforcement of the temporary use permit.
The outdoor service area, the permission to sell and consume alcohol outside, is completely
within Council discretion and if there is a violation or Council has issues with it, Staff can
recommend to Council it should be suspended or terminated, and the appeal goes through
Council. With the temporary use permit, if Staff feels the permitee is in violation of the terms,
Staff will say it should be suspended or revoked, and the appeal of that decision comes to the
Board of Adjustment.
The Board and Staff discussed the amplified noise with no live music versus live performance
issues and also the levels of decibel noise and how it will be regulated by the temporary use
permit.
Goeb moved for the approval of EXC16-00002, a special exception to allow at Rooftop
Service Area in the Central Business (CB-10) zone located above 115 and 117 Iowa
Avenue subject to the following conditions:
•Substantial compliance with the site plan submitted.
•No solid roof shall be constructed over any portion of the outdoor service area.
•Amplified sound is allowed by temporary use permit only.
•No live music or live performance permitted.
•A lighting plan must be in compliance with the Zoning Ordinance and approved
by the Building Official prior to issuance of a building permit.
•Handicapped accessible routes must be maintained between the front entrance
and elevator and between the elevator and second floor restrooms.
•Substantial compliance with the management plan, requiring no fewer than 2
employees present on the rooftop at all times, and one crowd control manager
for the entire bar/business.
•As per City Code, if nuisance or safety issues arise, the City may
require immediate changes to the management plan and/or the number
of monitors to remedy the situation and may suspend or revoke the
Outdoor Service Area permit.
•Food service must be provided during all hours of operation.
Weitzel seconded the motion.
Board of Adjustment
April 13, 2016
Page 10 of 12
Chrischilles moved to amend the motion with an additional condition that the site plan include
the perforated metal screening is used in all areas where there is screening to be located, and
should be at least 5 feet in height above the floor.
Goeb seconded the amendment.
Baker and Weitzel both understand the concern, but are not compelled to add in that condition.
Weitzel noted it is an unnecessary expense and there has been no proof of a problem.
Chrischilles noted that the contractor said it would actually be cheaper since it would be
uniformity of product. Chrischilles said he does not want the railing concept shown on the
architect’s site plan to be used, he feels it will open up problems of climbing over.
Weitzel also noted the Code already indicates what the minimum screening and railing is
necessary for safety and asking for the 5 feet is above the requirement.
Goeb noted that not only for safety, but for aesthetic reasons it will look better to have a consist
product around the whole rooftop.
Baker noted that once the Board opens up adding a foot to the minimum standard that then
opens up the conversation as to why not add two, and so forth. The safety standards are in
place already for a reason.
Since the amendment did not receive the support of three members of the Board, it will not be
added to the motion.
Baker called the question and asked for a finding of facts.
Weitzel stated regarding agenda item EXC16-00002 he concurs with the findings set forth in the
Staff Report of April 13, 2016 and conclude the general and specific criteria are satisfied unless
amended or opposed by another Board member he recommends that the Board adopt the
findings in the Staff Report as our findings with acceptance of this proposal.
Weitzel specifically noted in the Staff report it was compelling that the specific standards
addressed everything that was required by code and other uses in the area will be preserved.
Baker noted that the inability of the Board to consider sound mitigation or amplification issues is
an issue that needs to be reconsidered. The findings of the Staff, based on the limitations the
Board have, he does concur.
Chrischilles stated he opposed based on the findings in the Staff Report because he feels they
could do a better job with regards to the safety of the project.
Goeb seconded the findings of fact.
A vote was taken and the motion passed 3-1 (Chrischilles dissenting).
Baker stated the motion declared approved, any person who wishes to appeal this decision to a
court of record may do so within 30 days after this decision is filed with the City Clerk’s Office.
Board of Adjustment
April 13, 2016
Page 11 of 12
BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT INFORMATION:
Walz noted that the Board had drafted a letter to the City Council in January regarding rental
properties located in the flood plain and Staff has proposed a remedy for that in which Staff has
mapped out all the rental properties in the flood plain and that map will be attached to the rental
disclosure form so people can see whether the property they are renting is in a flood plain.
Baker stated with regards to the Board not being able to discuss or weigh in on the issue of
sound amplification he would like a rationale as to why.
Goeb also asked for a clarification on the live music issue.
ADJOURNMENT:
Weitzel moved to adjourn.
A vote was taken and the motion passed 4-0.
BO
A
R
D
O
F
A
D
J
U
S
T
M
E
N
T
AT
T
E
N
D
A
N
C
E
R
E
C
O
R
D
NA
M
E
T
E
R
M
E
X
P
.
4/
8
5
/
1
3
6
/
1
0
8/
1
2
9
/
1
4
1
0
/
1
4
12
/
1
6
1
/
1
3
2
/
1
7
3
/
9
4
/
1
3
BA
K
E
R
,
L
A
R
R
Y
1/
1
/
2
0
1
7
XX
X
X
X
X
X
X
O
/
E
X
X
GO
E
B
,
C
O
N
N
I
E
1/
1
/
2
0
2
0
XX
X
X
X
X
X
XX
X
X
GR
E
N
I
S
,
B
R
O
C
K
1/
1
/
2
0
1
6
O/
E
X
O
/
E
X
X
O
/
E
X
--
-
-
-
-
-
-
CH
R
I
S
C
H
I
L
L
E
S
,
T
.
G
E
N
E
1/
1
/
2
0
1
9
XX
X
X
X
X
X
XX
X
X
SO
G
L
I
N
,
B
E
C
K
Y
1/
1
/
2
0
1
8
XX
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
O
/
E
WE
I
T
Z
E
L
,
T
I
M
1/
1
/
2
0
2
1
--
-
-
--
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
X
X
X
KE
Y
:
X
=
P
r
e
s
e
n
t
O
=
A
b
s
e
n
t
O/
E
=
A
b
s
e
n
t
/
E
x
c
u
s
e
d
--
-
=
N
o
t
a
M
e
m
b
e
r