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WASHINGTON COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION
REGULAR MEETING --January 5,1987
The Washington County Planning Commission held its regular meeting on
January 5,1987 at 7:00 p.m.in the second floor conference room in the
County Office Building.
Present were:Chairman,Jack B.Byers;Vice-Chairman,Donald E.Zombro;Ex-
Officio,Richard E.Roulette;Bertrand L.Iseminger,Judith A.Acord,Sidney
Salitsky,Dr.Ray Johns.Staff:Executive Director,Jack S.Hawbaker,
Senior Planner,Stephen T.Goodrich;Associate Planner,Timothy A.Lung,
Associate Planner,Lisa A.Kelly,Parks Planner,William V.Stachoviak,
Deputy Director of Permits &Inspections;Paul Prodonovich,and Secretary;
Janet L.King.
CALL TO ORDER:
The meeting was called to order by the Chairman at 7:00 p.m.
MINUTES:
Mr.Zombro pointed out that the variance for Ralston and Hoover during the
December's regular meeting should be amended to read that it was approved
due to the hardship which would result from strict compliance with the
Ordinance.
Mr.Byers pointed out that the minutes of the December regular meeting
should be amended to state that the November minutes were approved.
oh a motion by Mr.Zombro and seconded by Mr.Iseminger,the minutes of the
December meeting were adopted as amended.So ordered.
NEW BUSINESS:
Variances:
Glendon L.Smith:
Mr.Lung presented the variance for Glendon L.Smith to create a new lot
with an access point less than 500 feet from an existing driveway onto a
Minor Arterial highway.The site is located on the westside of Md.Rt.66
south of Mill Point Road.Mr.Smith purchased a 3.3 acre lot which he is
proposing to subdivide into two lots.The existing lot has an approved
driveway location.A new shared entrance at the proposed new lot line is
not possible due to poor site distance.The proposed location of the
entrance to the new lot is the best for sight distance,however,it's only
40 feet north of an existing driveway to the Leslie Grim property.The State
Highway Administration stated that they would prefer to see a shared
entrance but would approve of the two driveways if a shared entrance is not
possible.Mr.Smith approached Mr.Grim concerning the sharing of this
driveway,but cannot meet an agreement.Dr.Johns made a motion to grant
the variance based on the hardship which result from strict compliance with
the regulations,seconded by Mr.Roulette.So ordered.
Van Lear Manor,Section 9:
Mr.Lung presented the variance for Van Lear Manor to create two lots with
access points less than 500 feet apart onto a Minor Arterial highway.The
site is located along Rt.11 north of Williamsport.Lot #1 will have direct
access onto Rt.11 at a location 270 feet north of Wilcox Drive,lot #2 will
have access onto a proposed future street across from Davis Drive.The
State Highway Administration has no objections to the proposed driveway
locations.Mr.Iseminger made a motion to grant the variance based on the
hardship which result from strict compliance with the regulations,seconded
by Mr.Salitsky •So ordered.
323
324 John Herbst:
Miss Kelly presented two variances for John Herbst.The site of the first
variance is located on the east side of Md.Rt.64.Mr.Herbst is proposing
to subdivide an 8 acre lot off of his 76 acre tract.The proposed entrance
to this lot will be located approximately 430 feet from an existing farm
lane entrance which will serve the remaining lands.The variance request is
from that ordinance requirement which states that all new accesses on a
Minor Arterial roadway be 500 feet apart.Mr.Zombro made a motion to grant
the variance based on the hardship which would result from strict compliance
with the regulations,seconded by Ms.Acord.So ordered.
Mr.Herbst's second variance request is to create a lot that has less than
the required 25 feet of road frontage.Mr.Herbst is proposing to create a
3 acre lot which will be served by an existing 14 foot panhandle that fronts
onto Kretsinger Road.The proposed lot will consist of an existing house
and farm outbuildings.Mr.Zombro made a motion to grant the variance due
to the hardship of taking away prime farmland,seconded by Mr.Roulette.So
ordered.
Subdivisions:
McMullan-Graves Farm:
Mr.Lung presented the Preliminary plat for a 29-10t Residential subdivision
on approximately 46 acres,which is located on the west side of Independence
Road.The area is zoned Agriculture and the proposed lots range from 1 acre
to 2.75 acres.All lots will front onto Independence Road.The Health
Department has granted approval stating that some reserve areas be adjusted
and existing wells should be shown on the tracing.Revisions have been made
and sent to the Health Department,but no written approval has been
received.The County Engineer disapproved the original submittal for the
following reasons:1)The road network in the area is inadequate to handle
the additional traffic generated by the subdivision,2)the four 90 degree
curves on Independence Road need to be flattened out,3)the site distance
for 14 out of the 31 lots is insufficient,and 4)the site grading plan for
lot 30 would be necessary on the final plat.The Consultant made revisions
to the plat and resubmitted it to the County Engineer.After reviewing the
revised plat,the County Engineer still disapproved of the plat for the
following reasons:1)it had not been worked out who would pay for the
curve flattening and 2)he stated again that the road system in the area is
inadequate and not able to handle the additional traffic.The Consultant
relocated driveways to improve the site distance and he also provided an
additional dedicated right-of-way area sufficient to flatten out the curves
as a result of this,two lots were eliminated.All other agency approvals
have been received.After a brief discussion,Mr.Roulette made a motion to
table the subdivision plat until a meeting can be arranged with the County
Commissioners,the County Engineer and Mr.McMullan to try to resolve the
problem.Seconded by Mr.Salitsky •So ordered.
Charles Semler,Lots 1-4:
Miss Kelly presented the Preliminary and Final subdivision plat for Charles
Semler,lots 1-4,consisting of a Residential development.The site is
located in the northeast quadrant of the intersection of Mt.Lena Road and
Rt.64.Mr.Semler is proposing to subdivide his 4.14 acres into four
Residential lots approximately 1 acre in size.All lots will have private
water and sewer.All agency approvals except the Health Department have
been received.Written approval is expected shortly.The existing entrance
onto Md.Rt.64 from proposed lot #1 is to be eliminated per State Highway
Administration request.Mr.Salitsky made a motion to grant the
preliminary/final subdivision contingent on Health Department approval,Mr.
Roulette seconded.So ordered.
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Honey-In-The-Rock:
Mr.Lung presented the Preliminary and Final subdivision plat for a l4-lot
Residential subdivision on the Gossard Mill Road.The site is zoned
Agriculture and the lots vary in size from 1 acre to 1.9 acres.Each lot
will have individual well and septic systems.All lots except lot #14 will
have access onto a proposed new road which will be constructed to County
standards and dedicated to the County to be known as Pontius Lane.The
Health Department has approved the plat,along with the County Engineer.
The County Engineer commented that some changes to the roadway plan and
profile be made.The Consultant made the revisions and has received the
County Engineer's approval.Mr.,Zombro made a motion to grant the
subdivision,seconded by Ms.Acord.So ordered.
Maple Hills:
Mr.Lung presented the Preliminary and Final subdivision plat for a 6-lot
Residential subdivision located on a 50 acre site.The site is zoned
Agriculture and the lots vary in size from 6 acres to 12 acres.Each lot
will have its own well and septic system.Lots #1,#2,and #3 will have
access onto Md.Rt.66;these entrances have been approved by the State
Highway Administration and meet all requirements of the Highway Plan.Lots
#4,#5,and #6 will have access onto Keadle Road.The State Highway
Administration and the County Engineer have approved the plat.The Health
Department has requested that the existing wells and septic areas within 100
feet of the new property line be shown on the tracing.The Consultant made
the changes and submitted the revised copy to the Health Department,but no
reply has been received.Mr.Salitsky made a motion to grant the
subdivision contigent upon the Health Department's approval,seconded by Mr.
Iseminger.So ordered.
Site Plans:
Mr.Lung presented the site plan for Hagerstown Table Corporation.The 5.4
acre parcel which is zoned Business Local is located near the intersection
of Halfway Boulevard and York Road.The proposed use will be called 'The
Village'and will consist of a 10,600 square foot building containing retail
shops.The access to the building will be via a private access road which
also serves the Bull Dog Federal Credit Union and the parking lot for the
Sizzlin Steak House.Parking for the proposed building will be provided in
three lots,which will provide 64 parking spaces;62 are required.
Landscaping for the site is provided by an existing tree line located to the
east and the developer is proposing some various species of junipers and
white pine to be located around the parking area,the building,and the
storm water management pond.Sewer service will be provided by an extension
of an existing sewer lateral in the private access road.Water service will
be provided by an extension of an existing line from Piper Lane.All
approvals have been received.The site plan meets all the requirements of
the Zoning Ordinance.Mr.Salitsky made a motion to approve the site plan,
seconded by Ms.Acord.So ordered.
OTHER BUSINESS
Zoning Matters:
Mr.Paul Prodonovich brought to the Planning Commission's attention that he
felt that Maryland Metals should be shielded from the traveling public along
Eastern Boulevard.Mr.Kerstein,President of Maryland Metals,feels that
the 6-8 foot high fence is sufficient screening.After a brief discussion,
a suggestion was made to visit the Maryland Metals site during the
Commission's field trip.Mr.Salitsky made a motion to table the subject
until after visiting the site,seconded by Mr.Roulette.So ordered.
Mr.Prodonovich also brought to the attention of the Planning Commission
that he has received several calls in which people want to use tractor
trailers on their property as storage facilities.At this time,there is
not anything in the Zoning Ordinance to exclude that type of trailer as
permitted as a storage building.The staff was asked by the Commission to
research the problem and report back with a suggestion for a Zoning
Ordinance text amendment.
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Subdivisions:
Herbert &Pamela Campbell:
Mr.Lung presented the Preliminary and Final plat for a 3-1ot Residential
subdivision located on Md.Rt.491.The site is zoned Conservation.Lots
#1 and #2 contain approximately 3 acres each,lot #3 contains approximately
6 acres with an existing dwelling.A variance was approved by the Zoning
Appeals Board to reduce the lot width on lots #1 and #2.Each lot will have
its own well and septic system.The site will be served by the Highfield
Water System;service should be available by November,1987.Lots #1 and #2
will be required to hook onto the system,however,a waiver was granted by
the Sanitary District for the connection for lot #3.All approvals have
been received.Mr.Zombro made a motion to approve the subdivision,
seconded by Dr.Johns.So ordered.
Preliminary Consultation:
Van Lear Manor,Section 8 &9:
The Van Lear Manor,Section 8 & 9 Preliminary Consultation was on the agenda
for the Planning Commission's information only with no additional
information to be presented by the staff.By concensus,the Commission
recognized the minutes of the Preliminary Consultation.
OTHER BUSINESS:
Highway Interchange -Workshop Date:
.The workshop date for the Planning Commission to discuss a section of the
Highway Interchange and give recommendations to classify those areas will be
on Friday,January 23 at 1:30 p.m.
Field Trip:
The field trip to view the sites of the rezoning cases and to visit the
Maryland Metals site will be on Monday,January 19 at 1:30 p.m.
1987 Work Program:
The Planning Commission decided not to pursue further studies with Rural
Development and Agricultural Land Preservation policies of the Comprehensive
Plan in the 1987 Work Program.Dr.Johns feels that we should start
studying the rural villages in the County to provide for some business uses
in support of those rural villages.The staff was asked to add this to the
Work Program.Mr.Roulette feels that we need to investigate ways to afford
protection through zoning for the Antietam Battlefield,but at the same
time permitting those uses that may not cause a conflict with the
conservation nature of that particular area.
Rezoning Cases:
Mr.Hawbaker passed out the information for the Rezoning Hearing and
reminded the Commission of the Public Hearing on Monday,January 12,1987 at
7:00 p.m.
AillOURNMENT:
There being no further business,the meeting was adjourned at 9:30 p.m.
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WASHINGTON COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION
REGUIAR MEETING -February 2,1987
The Washington County Planning Commission held its regular meting on
February 2,1987 at 7:00 p.m.in the second floor conference room in the
County Office Building.
Present were:Chairman,Jack B.Byers;Vice-Chairman,Donald E.Zombro;Ex-
Officio,Richard E.Roulette;Bertrand L.Iseminger;Dr.Ray Johns;and
Judith A.Acord.Staff:Executive Director,Jack S.Hawbaker;Senior
Planner,Stephen T.Goodrich;Associate Planner,Timothy A.Lung;Associate
Planner,Lisa A.Kelly;Deputy Director of Permits and Inspections,Paul
Prodonovich;and Secretary,Janet L.King.Absent was Sidney Salitsky.
CALL TO ORDER:
The meeting was called to order by the Chairman at 7:00 p.m.
MINUTES:
Mr.Roulette made a motion to adopt the minutes of the January meeting as
written,seconded by Mr.Iseminger.So ordered.
There was a request to add two items to the agenda:McMullan-Graves Farm,
which was tabled during the January meeting,and Hagerstown Mall.Mr.
Roulette made a motion to add McMullan-Graves Farm to the agenda,seconded
by Mr.Iseminger.Mr.Roulette made a motion to add Hagerstown Mall to the
agenda,seconded by Mr.Iseminger.So ordered.
NEW BUSINESS:
Variances:
Bernard W.Moleskie,Jr.:
Miss Kelly presented a variance for Bernard Moleski.The subject site is
located On the northwest side of U.S.40,approximately two miles west of
Clear Spring.Mr.Moleski is proposing to subdivide his 26 acre tract into
two parcels.Proposed lot #1 encompasses 21 acres and currently has no
existing buildings on it.The remaining lands consit of 4.5 acres and has a
house and two mobile homes on it.The variance is being requested from the
section of the Subdivision Ordinance which states that all newly created
lots have 25 feet of pUblic road frontage.Proposed lot #1 will be located
to the rear of Mr.Moleskie's property.Access to this lot will be via an
existing driveway which serves the existing dwellings.If subdivision were
to occur,this would allow 4.5 acres for one existing house and two mobile
homes.This matter would then have to go to the Board of Appeals.The
State Highway Administration has nO problem with the proposed lot using this
entrance,but if any further subdivision were to occur,a commercial
entrance permit would be needed.Mr.Roulette made a motion to grant the
variance based On the hardship which would result from strict compliance of
the ordinance,seconded by Mr.Iseminger.So ordered.
Subdivisions:
Stoneleigh Estates:
Mr.Lung presented the Preliminary/Final subdivision for Stoneleigh Estates
Section D,Lots 25-28,which is located On the west side of Fairplay Road.
The subject parcel is zoned Agriculture.The lots vary in size from 7 acres
to 34 acres.The County Engineer has approved of the subdivision.Each lot
will have its own private well and septic system.The Health Dept.has
approved the plat on the condition that some minor revisions be made.The
revisions have been made by the consultant prior to the meeting.In 1981,
the Planning Commission limited the number of lots in Stone leigh Estates to
26 due to the condition of Fairplay Road.In May of 1986,the Planning
Commission increased the limit to 28 lots.The staff recommended that there
should be a note placed on the plat stating that nO further subdivision of
these lots will be permitted until Fairplay Road is upgraded per County
requirements.The plan meets all the requirements of the Subdivision
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328 ""0 d"omb d"hOrdInanceandtheZonIngrInance.Mr.Z ro ma e a motIon to grant t e
subdivision contingent upon the note being placed on the plat regarding
further development of the subdivision until Fairplay Road is upgraded.Mr.
Iseminger seconded.So ordered.
McMullan-Graves Farm:
Mr.Roulette explained that the County Commissioners met with Glen Dull,
County Engineer,and Mr.McMullan to discuss the problem of site distance.
The Commissioners have decided with the Planning Commission's approval to
accept the Right-of-Way offered by Mr.McMullan and that Mr.McMullan in
conjunction with the County Engineer develop a plan to shave back the ground
on the curves on Independence Road to increase the site distance as the
County Engineer sees fit.There was no decision in regard to road
improvements by the County at this time.Mr.Roulette made a motion to
grant the subdivision based on the County Engineer's approval of the site
distance and also the Right-of-Way offered by Mr.McMullan,seconded by Mr.
Iseminger.So ordered.
COMMUNICATIONS:
The Executive Director presented a letter to the Commission from W.J.
and Associates requesting a 90-day extension for Robinwood Court III.
Iseminger made a motion to grant the 90-day extension,seconded by Dr.
Johns.So ordered.
ornER BUSINESS:
Agricultural District Application -Paula Toms:
Teach
Mr.
"Mr.Goodrich presented an Agricultural Preservation District application
from Paula Toms.The farm is located on the south side of Cool Hollow Road,
1/2 mile east of U.S.40 between Hagerstown and Boonsboro.The Planning
Commission determines the establishment of a Preservation District conforms
with the County's Comprehensive Plan.The farm is approximately 75 acres in
size,which doesn't meet the State's requirements of 100 acres.However,
this property is adjacent to two other properties already in the
Agricultural District.Mr.Zombro made a motion to recommend approval of
the application because it does not conflict with the Comprehensive Plan,
seconded by Dr.Johns.So ordered.
Water and Sewerage Plan:
Mr.Goodrich presented 1987 Revision of the Water and Sewerage Plan,a
biennial update is required by the State.The staff changed and updated
priorities,on individual parcels but no new properties were proposed for
public service.Text changes were also made to indicate new or updated
plans and information.
After a brief discussion,no action was needed by the Planning Commission.
Maryland Metals Screening:
The Maryland Metals screening was discussed during the January meeting and
after a brief discussion,it was decided that the Commission view the site.
Mr.Prodonovich stated that he felt that there should be additional
screening at the Maryland Metals site due to the motoring public on Eastern
Boulevard.The Planning Commission feels that sreening would be difficult
to achieve unless 40 foot trees could be planted between the road and the
railroad tracks.The suggestion was made that the County Commissioners
should view the site in regards to the screening,and let them make a
recommendation.Mr.Iseminger made a motion to refer the problem to the
County Commissioners for their recommendation,seconded by Dr.Johns.So
ordered.
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Text Amendments:
Mr.Hawbaker informed the Commission that these two Text Amendments have
been proposed by the Board of County Commissioners and sent to the Planning
Commission for its information.
Mr.Prodonovich explained that election signs are permitted in all districts
without a permit.There is no limit in when to put up a sign or when to
take it down.In the past,the County has been following the same rules as
the State follows.The Commission had no recommendation and did not need to
take any action on the Election Signs.
Mr.Prodonovich explained that the Text Amendment for Temporary and Portable
Signs is also sponsored by the County Commissioners and its purpose is to
delete the prohibition on temporary and portable signs to allow that type of
advertising provided the sign's area is limited to 35 square feet.The
Planning Commission recommended that the "temporary"provision be deleted
because of possible enforcement difficulties and asked Mr.Prodonovich to
get with Barry Teach to amend the application.
Hagerstown Mall:
Merle Holsinger of Associated Engineering Sciences requested that the
Planning Commission grant authority to Mr.Hawbaker to approve the
acquisition of three parcels of land by the Simplified Plat process.Mr.
Zornbro made a motion to grant the authority to the staff to have total
review of the site inclUding these three acquired parcels will be
accomplished by the Commission when the site plan is submitted.Seconded by
Ms.Acord.So ordered.
Highway Interchange Briefing:
Mr.Lung presented the findings of the first phase of the Highway
Interchange Study to the Commission.
During the first workshop session held on January 23,the staff and the
Commission discussed the Interchange areas from State Line to Maugans
Avenue.Before forming recommendations to take to the Board of County
Commissioners and to public hearing,the Commission decided to first
conclude its analysis of Interchange #3 extending southward from Maugans
Avenue to Salem Avenue.
The next workshop date for the Planning Commission and staff to discuss the
section from Maugans Avenue to Salem Avenue will be on February 20,1987 at
1:30 p.m.
Rezoning Cases -January 12,1987 Public Hearing:
329
RZ-349 Charles Sifler 1M to A
A rnction was made by Dr.Johns to recommend to the County Commissioners that
this case be approved based on the findings of fact in the Staff
Recommendation.Ms.Acord seconded.So ordered.
RZ-350 Christian S.Martin A to BG
Mr.Hawbaker informed the Commission that this rezoning case was withdrawn
on February 2,1987.
RZ-35l Text Amendment BT Zone
A motion was made by Mr.Zornbro to recommend to the County Commissioners to
insert the new BT Zone into the Zoning Ordinance as it was presented at the
public hearing.Mr.Iseminger seconded.So ordered.
S-3 -Text Amendment Cul-de-sac Length
A rnction was made by Mr.Iseminger to recommend to the County Commissioners
deletion of the 600 foot length on cul-de-sacs and to leave the limit up to
the Planning staff.Mr.Zornbro seconded.So ordered.
330
Mr.Roulette abstained from voting on the Rezoning Cases pending the County
Commissioners recommendations.
On January 27,1987,Mr.Byers and Mr.Hawbaker presented the 87-88 Work
Program to the County Commissioners that was adopted by the Planning
Commission on January 5..The County Commissioners suggested that the
following matters be added to the Work Program:
1.)Consider extension of existing roadways at interchanges such as at
Showalter Road and Maugansville Road.
2.)Truck stops may be inappropriate in some areas of the County,
particularly near residential developments.
3.)Reoommend possible new interchanges to the State Highway
Administration for the future such as at Alt.40 and 1-70.
4.)Consider a special Townhouse Zoning,which is currently
only permitted in Residential Multi-family districts.
5.)Investigate a tie-in between Eastern Boulevard and Robinwood Drivel
Hagerstown Junior College area.
There being no further business,the meeting was adjourned at 9:00 p.m.
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WASHINGTON COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION
REGULAR MEETING -MARCH 2,1987
The Washington County Planning Commission held its regular meeting on
March 2,1987 at 7:00 p.m.in the second floor conference room in the County
Office Building.
Present were:Chairman,Jack B.Byers,Ex-Officio,Richard E.Roulette,
Bertrand L.Iseminger,and Dr.Ray Johns.Staff:Executive Director,Jack
S.Hawbaker,Senior Planner,Stephen T.Goodrich;Associate Planner,Lisa A.
Kelly,Deputy Director of Permits &Inspections,Paul Prodonovich and
Secretary,Janet L.King.Absent were Vice-Chairman,Donald E.Zombro;
Judith A.Acord;Sidney Salitsky;Timothy A.Lung,Associate Planner;and
William V.Stachoviak,Parks Planner.
CALL TO ORDER:
The meeting was called to order by the Chairman at 7:00 p.m.
ADDITION TO AGENDA:
Mr.Mike Shrader of Davis,Renn and Shrader made a request to add the Sheetz
Convenience Store to the agenda.Mr.Roulette made a motion to add the
Sheetz Store to the agenda,seconded by Mr.Iseminger.So ordered.
MINUTES:
Mr.Iseminger made a motion to approve the minutes of the Regular Meeting of
February 2,1987 as written,seconded by Dr.Johns.So ordered.
VARIANCES:
Kathyrn Kershner:
Miss Kelly presented the variance request for Kathyrn Kershner.The subject
site is located on the east side of the Downsville Pike.Mrs.Kershner is
proposing to create three new lots from her existing 14 acre tract.The
proposed new lots will be approximately 2 - 4 acres in size.The variance
is being requested from Section 405.1l(B)of the Subdivision Ordinance which
requires that all lots have pUblic road frontage.Access to these proposed
lots will be via an existing farm lane which serves approximately five
residences and is approximately 15'wide with brush on both sides.Mr.
Roulette made a motion to approve the variance based on hardship which would
result from strict compliance with the Ordinance and also based on the
condition that there be a restriction for no further development until the
lane is improved.Mr.Iseminger seconded the motion.Mr.Roulette and Mr.
Iseminger voted to approve the variance but Dr.Johns and Mr.Byers voted
no.With a tied vote,the motion to approve the variance failed.So
ordered.
James E.Harrell:
Miss Kelly presented the variance for James Harrell.The subject site is
located on the east side of Lane's Run Road,south of its intersection of
Hanging Rock Road and Catholic Church Road.Mr.Harrell is proposing to
create a 1 acre lot from his existing 135 acre farm.The variance is being
requested from Section 405.11(B)of the Subdivision Ordinance which states
that all new lots have public road frontage.Access to this proposed lot
will be provided by a private lane which serves an existing farm.The
topography along adjacent sections of Lane's Run Road would make the
addition of new access difficult.The inclusion of the farm lane with the
proposed subdivision would leave the existing farm without access.Mr.
Iseminger made a motion to grant the variance based on topography hardship,
seconded by Mr.Roulette.So ordered.
331
332 John Kendle:
Miss Kelly presented the variance for John Kendle.The subject site is
located on the south side of Old Maryland Route 68,.3 miles west of its
intersection with New Maryland Route 68.Mr.Kendle is proposing to create
a 5 acre lot from his existing 176 acre farm.The variance is being
requested from Section 405.11 (B)which requires that all new lots have
public road frontage.Access to the proposed lot will be provided by a
private right-of-way which will be located on the remaining lands of Mr.
Kendle.The site has road frontage on New Maryland Route 68,however that
will not be used.They are creating an access onto Old Maryland Route 68.
After some concerns were stressed over the proposed private right-of-way,
the variance request was tabled until next month's meeting.
SUBDIVISIONS:
Susan's Orchards:
Miss Kelly presented the Preliminary and Final subdivision plat for Susan's
Orchards,Section B,lots 1-5.The proposed subdivision is located on the
east side of the Mercersburg Road.The proposed lots will range in size
from 2 to 22 acres and will be used for Residential development.Each of
the 5 lots will have its own well and private sewer system.All agency
approvals have been received except for the Health Department.A written
approval is expected shortly.Mr.Iseminger made a motion to grant
preliminary and final approval for Susan's Orchards based on the Health
Department's approval,seconded by Dr.Johns.So ordered.
Lewis Estates:
Miss Kelly presented the preliminary and final subdivision plat for Lewis
Estates,lots 1-4.The subject site is located in the northwest quadrant of
the intersection of Mt.Lena Road and Republican Avenue,just south of
Smithsburg.The site is currently zoned Agriculture.The owners are
proposing to subdivide a total of 6 acres from their 98 acre tract.Each
new lot will be 1.5 acres in size and will have a private well and septic
system.All requirements of the Subdivision and Zoning Ordinance have been
met and all agency approvals have been received.Dr.Johns made a motion to
grant preliminary and final approval for Lewis Estates,seconded by Mr.
Roulette.So ordered.
SITE PLAN:
B &B Auto Glass:
Mr.Hawbaker presented the site plan for B &B Auto Glass which is located
on the northeast quandrant of Virginia Avenue and Marbern Road.There will
be one access to Marbern Road 97'from centerline of the Virginia Avenue
intersection,and the existing access onto Virginia Avenue will be
eliminated.The landscaping on the site with Japenese yews and Northern red
oaks are to be planted in the islands along Virginia Avenue and Marbern
Road.Mr.Iseminger made a motion to approve the site plan as submitted,
seconded by Mr.Roulette with the condition that any deviation from the plan
will require Commission review.So ordered.
OTHER BUSINESS:
Dennis Minnick:
Mr.Hawbaker presented the subdivision for Dennis Minnick to the Planning
Commission for authority to go through the simplified plat process for 4
lots on Pleasant Valley Road.Mr.Minnick is proposing to subdivide these
lots to an immediate family member.Mr.Roulette made a motion to approve
the subdivision through the simplified plat process and to give staff
authority to approve the SUbdivision after all agency approvals have been
received.Seconded by Mr.Iseminger.So ordered.
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Xerxes Corporation:
Mr.Fred Papa of Fox and Associates requested that the Planning Commission
give the authority to the staff to approve the site plan for Xerxes
Corporation.The subject site is located in the 70/81 Industrial Park and
is zoned "IG".Mr.Papa stated that the City Water Department,Washington
County Sanitary District and the Washington County Engineer have no problem
with the proposed site plan.After a brief discussion,Mr.Roulette made a
motion to give the staff authority to approve the site plan based on the
condition if the staff feels there is a problem they will bring it before
the Planning Commission for its review,seconded by Dr.Johns.So ordered.
Sheetz Convenience Store:
Mr.Mike Shrader of Davis,Renn and Shrader presented the site plan for the
Sheetz Store to the Planning Commission.The proposed site is located at
the intersection of Pennsylvania Avenue and Maugans Avenue.The site is
approximately .98 acres in size and is zoned "BG".Public water and Sewer
will be available.There will be an entrance and exit on U.S.Route 11 for
right turn only as well as an entrance on Maugans Avenue.There is a 2500
square foot building proposed with three gas pumps with a canopy.Storm
water management approval has been received from the Washington County
Engineer.Mr.Shrader is requesting approval be given to the staff
subsequent to any comments made by the reviewing agencies.Mr.Goodrich
stated that there is a restriction on the original plat for the Maugans
Avenue access.If any development is to occur,the existing right-of-way
must be used as shown on the plat.Mr.Roulette made a motion to approve
the subdivision based on the condition that is stated on the plat.If the
condition cannot be met,the plat and site plan must come back to the
Planning Commission for its approval.Mr.Iseminger seconded the motion.
So ordered.
COMMUNICATIONS:
Letter Board of Realtors:
Mr.Hawbaker presented a letter from Joy Snyder of Re/Max requesting that
she be put on the mailing list for copies of the monthly meeting's minutes.
Mr.Byers stated that the meetings are public and that the minutes are on
file in the Planning Commission office for the public to view.The
Commission asked Mr.Hawbaker to SO notify Ms.Snyder.
PRELIMINARY CONSULTATION:
Susan's Orchards:
The Preliminary Consulation for Susan's Orchards was presented to the
Planning Commission for its information only with nothing to be added by the
staff.
OTHER BUSINESS:
Site Plan Review Policy:
Mr.Hawbaker asked the Commission to consider granting the staff the
authority for approving all site plans in light of the Commission's action
on individual requests from developers over the past several years.Mr.
Byers expressed concern that the waiver of plan review by the Commission was
creating unfairness toward those developers who do not ask for special
treatment.Mr.Hawbaker reminded the Commission of its adopted policy for
site plan submittal and review and explained that the reason for the
suggested change in procedure was to effect fair treatment for all parties.
Dr.Johns moved to grant the staff authority to approve all site plans,but
the motion died for lack of a second.The Commission asked Mr.Hawbaker to
study alternative ways of accomplishing site plan review and approval and to
report back to the Commission at the next regular meeting.
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Clear Spring &Hancock Town Growth Area:
Mr.Hawbaker informed the Planning Commission that he has contacted Clear
Spring and Hancock Town Halls regarding the Town Growth Area Study but has
not received any answer to date.He asked if the Commission wanted to
appoint a member to accompany the staff once the studies have begun.After
a brief discussion,the matter was tabled until the staff hears from the
towns regarding the Town Growth Area Study.
Watershed Study:
Mr.Hawbaker and Miss Kelly both explained to the Commission that the Water-
shed Study is now complete,thereby fulfilling that part of the
Comprehensive Plan implementation.They informed the Commission that
although the study becomes somewhat moot in light of recent City of
Hagerstown intentions to close the reservoirs and use river water,the
findings of the study are nevertheless valid and will be useful for future
reference.Copies of the study were supplied to the Commission with the
agenda packets.No action was taken by the Commission.
Highway Interchange Study:
Due to the fact that there were three Planning Commission members absent,
the Highway Interchange Study was tabled until next month's meeting.
FY '88 Budget:
Mr.Hawbaker presented the budget for FY '88 to the Planning Commission for
its review.This will be presented to the Board of County Commissioners
during the month of March.After discussion,the Commission approved the
budget request as proposed.
ADJOURNMENT:
There being no further business,the meeting was adjourned at 9:30 p.m.
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WASHINGTON COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION
REGUlAR MEETING -APRIL 6,1987
The Washington County Planning Commission held its regular meeting on
April 6,1987 at 7:00 p.m.in the second floor conference room in the County
Office Building.
Present were:Chairman,Jack B.Byers;Vice-Chairman,Donald E.Zombro;Ex-
Officio,Richard E.Roulette;Bertrand L.Iseminger,Dr.Ray Johns,and
Judith A.Acord.Staff:Executive Director,Jack S.Hawbaker;Senior
Planner,Stephen T.Goodrich;Associate Planner;Timothy A.Lung;Associate
Planner,Lisa A.Kelly;Associate Planner,William V.Stachoviak;Deputy
Director of Permits and Inspections,Paul Prodonovich,and Secretary,Janet
L.King.Absent was:Sidney Salitsky.
CALL TO ORDER:
The meeting was called to order by the Chairman at 7:00 p.m.
MINUTES:
Dr.Johns made a motion to approve the minutes of the March 2,1987 meeting
as written,seconded by Mr.Iseminger.So ordered.
NEW BUSINESS:
Variances:
.Andy and Pamela Stamper:
Miss Kelly presented the variance for Andy and Pamela Stamper.The site is
located in the northeast quandrant of the intersection of Security Road and
Antietam Drive.Mr.Stamper is proposing to subdivide a I-acre lot off of
his 5-acre tract.The proposed lot has no existing structures.The
variance is being requested from Section 405.11(B)of the Subdivision
Ordinance which states that all new lots shall have 25 feet of public road
frontage.The proposed lot is to be subdivided off the rear portion of the
Stamper's land.Access is to provided by a private right-of-way which is
owned and maintained by the Independent Cement Corporation.The intended
use of the proposed site is for a car and truck repair shop.A letter was
received from Mr.Stamper's attorney stating that Mr.Stamper has the right
to allow a third party to use the right-of-way that is stated in his deed.
A letter was also received from Mr.Beaty,the plant manager of Independent
Cement Corporation,stating that they are aware of the subdivision and have
no objections.Ms.Acord made a motion to grant the variance based on the
hardship that would result from strict compliance to the Ordinance,seconded
by Mr.Zombro.So ordered.
Paul Ritchey:
Mr.Lung presented the variance for Paul Ritchey,which is being requested
from Section 405.11(B)of the Subdivision Ordinance which requires that all
new lots have a minimum of 25 feet of public road frontage.The proposed
site is off the end of Learning Lane and located on the south side of Route
40 west of Hagerstown.
In May,1985,the Planning Commission denied a request by Mr.Ritchey to
subdivide two lots to place mobile homes without the required road frontage.
Following the denial of that request,Mr.Ritchey placed mobile homes on the
property without subdividing.These two mobile homes are using the existing
lane as the source of access.At that time,there appeared to be a limit on
access points onto Learning Lane and the Planning Commission asked the staff
to research the problem.In May,1986,Mr.Ritchey made a request to
subdivide lot #6 for two dwellings that would also have access through the
existing lane.This variance request was withdrawn prior to that meeting.
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Since that time,the matter of limiting the access points onto Learning Lane
has been cleared up.The County Commissioners cannot find any documentation
of there ever being a limit to the number of access points on Learning
Lane.This matter was turned over to Glenn Dull,County Engineer.Mr.Dull
stated that in order to satisfy the Engineering Department,Learning Lane
must be improved to 18 feet paving width from the last school entrance to
the end of Mr.Ritchey's property frontage.These improvements are to be
made at the developer's expense.These requirements were confirmed by a
letter from Ron Bowers,President of the Board of County Commissioners,to
Mr.Ritchey dated March 30,1987.
Mr.Ritchey is now requesting a variance to subdivide the property where the
two mobile homes are located and also to subdivide what was originally lot
#6 into three lots for single-family dwellings.All of the proposed lots
will use the existing lane as access.Two of the lots would have public
road frontage onto Learning Lane due to the fact that Mr.Ritchey owns
approximately 38 feet of frontage.The other three lots would have no
frontage onto Learning Lane.The Health Department has confirmed that perc
tests have been passed for these three lots and there are existing wells and
septic systems on the lots for the mobile homes.
Mr.Ritchey stated that the lot where the mobile homes are located is part
of 12.69 acres.He cannot use the access onto Walnut Point Road because the
frontage is only 16 feet wide.Mr.Ritchey tried to obtain land from
adjacent property owners for additional road frontage,but failed.
Mr.Shoemaker and Mr.Martin,both adjacent property owners,spoke in
opposition to the variance request.
Dr.Johns made a motion to deny the variance request due to the lack of a
hardship,seconded by Mr.Zombro.Unanimously approved.
Mr.Byers,Chairman of the Planning Commission,informed Mr.Ritchey that he
does have an option to subdivide in the normal manner under which the
Subdivision Ordinance permits,if he were to ask for a variance from the 50
foot public street width to a 38 foot street width.This proposal would be
taken to the County Engineer for his approval.
Subdivisions:
County Commissioners,Parcel F:
Miss Kelly presented the preliminary and final plat for the County
Commissioners,Parcel F.This is a single-lot commercial subdivision
consisting of 2.5 acres and is currently zoned Industrial General.The site
is located in the southwest quandrant of the intersection of Western
Maryland Parkway and MD Route 144.The lot will be served by public water
and sewer.All Subdivision and Zoning Ordinance requirements have been met,
and all agency approvals have been received.Mr.Zombro made a motion to
approve the preliminary and final plat,seconded by Mr.Iseminger.
So ordered.
Van Lear Manor,Section 8:
Mr.Lung presented the preliminary and final subdivision for Van Lear Manor,
Section 8,which is a 13-10t residential subdivision located along Daub Road
and Sterling Road in the Williamsport area.The site is zoned Residential
Rural and is located within the Urban Growth Area.The site is served by
public water and sewer.Prior to the application for subdivision,the
developer,R.Lee Downey,dedicated approximately .5 acres to the County in
order to realign the Daub Road/Sterling Road intersection.This realignment
will be completed before construction of any dwellings.The County
Engineer,Hagertown Water Department and Sanitary District have requested
minor revisions to the plan which have been made.A final approval letter
has been received from the County Engineer;however,written approval from
the Water Department and Sanitary District is still needed.The Health
Department's approval is pending their receipt of the extension permits from
the State Health Department.Mr.Zombro made a motion to approve the
preliminary and final plat contingent upon the receipt of approval letters
from the outstanding agencies,seconded by Ms.Acord.So ordered.
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Greenside Apartments,Phase II (Preliminary Plat):
Mr.Goodrich presented the proposal for six single-family residential
building lots located north of Maugansville.When Greenside Apartments
Phase I was constructed,North Street was extended from Binkley Avenue.The
average lot size is 16,300 square feet,and each lot will front on North
Street Extended and will be served by public water and sewer.
The present underground drainage system consisting of 24"pipe is to
abandoned.The County Engineer is requiring that an easement be established
to accommodate a new channel.The drainage will be diverted behind lots 4,
5,and 6,between lots 3 and 4,underneath North Street extended and into a
channel that is already existing on the south side of Greenside Apartments.
The County Engineer has given his approval with three conditions for the
final plat.Those conditions are as follows:1.)A clear understanding that
the County is participating in the cost of the construction of the channel,
but not responsible for having the work completed;this will be the
developer's responsibility,2.)a typical cross-section of the channel be
shown on the final plat and 3.)a note on the final plat stating that no
permits will be issued for lots 3,4,5 and 6 until the drainage channel is
completed.Mr.Dull has recommended that the homes be built without
basements because of the high water table in Maugansville.The County
Engineer has approved this subdivision with conditions;the Sanitary
District has approved without conditions.Mr.Goodrich feels that the
approval from the Health Department will be no problem once the approval
from the Hagerstown Water Department has been received.The Water
Department has no problem hooking up the 6 lots to the public water system.
However,they are requiring a fire hydrant located somewhere in the vicinity
of lots 1 and 2.The developer of the subdivision does not agree with the
Water Department's suggestion of additional fire hydrants.Mr.Malcolm
Davis,consultant,feels that there are adequate fire hydrants in the
subdivision and in the apartment complex.
Mr.Roulette made a motion to grant preliminary approval of the subdivision
and staff authority for final approval based on the conditions from the
County Engineer,approval of the location of fire hydrants to be worked out
with the Water Department.Mr.Iseminger seconded.So ordered.
Site Plans:
Maugansville Bible Brethern Church:
Mr.Lung presented the site plan for Maugansville Bible Brethern Church.
The proposed church is to be located on a 3-acre parcel at the intersection
of Binkley Avenue and North Street in Maugansville.The site is zoned
Highway Interchange and is subject to all the buffer yard requirements of
that district.The property is served by public water and sewer.Approvals
from the Sanitary District and the County Engineer have been received;
however,approval from the Hagerstown Water Department is still outstanding.
The Water Department is requesting that a fire hydrant be located at the
corner of Mountain View Avenue and Binkley Avenue.
When the original subdivision was approved in 1985,the proposed building
and parking area were located within the buffer yard.When the first
submittal was received,it provided none of the required screening around
the buffer yards and it also showed the parking area infringing into the
buffer yards.A memo was sent to the consultant to make these and other
minor revisions to the plan.They have added vegetative screening around
the parking area;however,the access lane surrounding the parking spaces
still infringes into the buffer yard.This infringement is anywhere from 25
feet to the front to 51 feet to the rear of the site.
Mr.Jerry Rowe,representing the church,asked that they be allowed to
provide parking for only 300 seats in the sanctuary even though there will
be 416 seats eventually provided.Additional parking would be added when
the congregation grows to fill all the seats.
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After a brief discussion regarding the screening and parking problems,Mr.
Iseminger made a motion to approve the site plan contingent upon the
following:1.)the number of seats in the sanctuary be reduced if the
parking is to be reduced,2.)the access lanes which infringe on the buffer
yards should be reduced to 24 feet in width,3.)provide landscaping strips
around the parking spaces to discourage parking in the access lanes,and
4.)receipt of an approval letter from the Hagerstown Water Department.
Mr.Roulette seconded.So ordered.
Budget Host Inn:
Mr.Lung presented the site plan for Budget Host Inn,which is to be located
on the site of the existing Timber Ridge Motel off of MD Route 615 at Timber
Ridge Road #3.The site consists of 5.19 acres and is zoned BG.The
existing motel has 13 rooms and a single-family dwelling.The new building
is to be located to the west of the existing building and will have 24
rooms.The site will be served by on-site well and septic systems which
have been approved by the Health Department.Landscaping will be provided
by the existing trees and shrubs in addition to some new crabapple trees.
Access to the site is by two existing entrances onto MD Route 615.Comments
have been received from the State Highway Administration and they request
improvements to these entrances;decel and accel lanes and paving width
increased from 25 feet to 30 feet.All other agency approvals have been
received.Mr.Zombro made a motion to approve the site plan contingent upon
approval from the State Highway Administration.Dr.Johns seconded.So
ordered.
Antietam Iron Works:
Miss Kelly presented the preliminary plat and site plan for Antietam Iron
Works,located on the east side of Hump Road and approximately 1 mile south
of Maryland Route 144.The site consists of approximately I acre and is
zoned Industrial General.The owner is proposing to construct a 50'x 75'
building to manufacture iron products.Landscaping will be located along
the front property line and around the outside storage and loading area.
The site will be served by public sewer but will have its own private well.
All agency approvals have been received.Ms.Acord made a motion to approve
the site plan,seconded by Mr.Roulette.So ordered.
Advertising,Inc.:
Mr.Goodrich informed the Planning Commission that the staff approved the
site plan for an expansion to an existing building located on U.S.Route 11
in front of the proposed Fountainhead Plaza and next to the Olympia Candy
Kitchen.No action was taken by the Commission.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS:
Martin Company/Sheetz Store:
Mr.Hawbaker informed the Planning Commission that at March's meeting,the
Planning Commission gave the staff the authority to approve the site plan
provided that the entrance was the same as it was on the subdivision plat,
but if it varied it must come back to the Commission.
Mr.Goodrich presented the site plan for the Sheetz Store,which is located
at the corner of U.S.Route 11 and Maugans Avenue.There was a restriction
placed on the subdivision plat by the County Engineer,which stated that
there would be no access to this site from Maugans Avenue except over the
existing 40 foot right-of-way.
The consultant has revised the plat to remove the note that was placed by
the County Engineer who has approved the entrance location onto Maugans
Avenue.There is an agreement to be worked out for cost participation for
the improvements to Maugans Avenue which involve acquisition of right-of-way
and expansion of shoulders.The State Highway Administration has not given
its approval but has stated that it is under study.Mr.Zombro made a
motion to approve the revised site plan and plat contingent upon State
Highway's approval,seconded by Ms.Acord.So ordered.
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Mr.Malcolm.Davis,of Davis,Renn and Shrader,informed the Planning
Commission that he had a problem with recording the plat due to the fact
that it does not have a surveyor's seal on it.Mr.Goodrich stated from the
Subdivision Ordinance what should be on a plat when the staff receives it,
and the Planning Commission informed Mr.Davis that he needed to work out
the problem himself.
OTHER BUSINESS:
PUD -Floyd Kline:
Mr.Lung presented the concept plan for the PUD for Floyd Kline.The site
is located on the south side of U.S.Route 11 just west of the Conrail
Railroad crossing and east of the 1-70 overpass.The site consists of 8.67
acres and is zoned RS.This site is located within the Urban Growth Area of
the County.The site will be served by public water and sewer and calls for
5 duplex units and 48 townhouse units.
The staff feels that the only potential problem with the concept plan at
this time is the possibility that there is no public access to the picnic
woods and the County Engineer has stated that there may be additional
parking needed.
The concept plan was presented to the Commission for their information with
no action needed.
Site Plan Review -Beau Construction:
Mr.Kirk Davis,of Beau Construction,presented the site plan that consists
of 4.12 acres located in the Williamsport Industrial Park for Packaging
Services.He is requesting of the Planning Commission to waive the site
plan review policy and to grant the staff approval.Beau Construction is
proposing to construct a 20,000 square foot building for additional
warehousing.There has been added paving to the rear of the site to back up
trailers for loading and unloading purposes.Mr.Roulette made a motion to
grant staff approval of the site plan,seconded by Mr.Zombro with the
condition that any deviation from the plan will require Commission review.
So ordered
COMMUNICATIONS:
Letter from Funkstown Volunteer Fire Company:
Mr.Larry Iseminger,a member of Funkstown Volunteer Fire Company,stated
his concerns on behalf of the fire company in regard that an Industrial Park
has been created on Oak Ridge Place where no water is available for fire
suppression.The fire company is concerned that Younger Toyota on the Dual
Highway is constructing an automobile dealership well beyond the limits of
the present municipal water system.It has also come to the attention of
the fire company that the Beaver Creek Antique Market is proposing to expand
the size of its existing building.Mr.Iseminger stated that they are
concerned that these large structures are being constructed in areas where
no municipal water is available for fire protection services.Mr.Byers
suggested that they go to the Board of County Commissioners and state their
concerns.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS:
John Kendle Variance:
Mr.Hawbaker informed the Commission that Mr.Kendle will try to get an
entrance onto new Md.Route 68 thereby withdrawing his variance that was
requested at the March meeting.This was brought to the Commission's
attention for its information with no action needed.
OTHER BUSINESS:
Preliminary Consultations:
Beaver Creek Antique Market:
The preliminary consultation for Beaver Creek Antique Market was presented
to the Commission for its information only with nothing to be added by the
staff.
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Colonial Park East:
Mr.Byers stepped down from the Commission due to the fact he had an
interest in this matter.Vice-Chairman Donald Zombro resided over the
Commission.
Mr.Lung stated that the summary for Colonial Park East was not ready for
the meeting.He stated that the site was the subject of a rezoning case
from Agricultural to Residential-Suburban in 1977.There was a condition
placed on the rezoning concerning that not all of the access go through
Colonial Park,but that some of it be handled by a new collector street
shown on the County's Highway Plan.Plans for this collector street have
been dropped according to the County Engineer.No action was taken by the
Commission.
Site Plan Review Policy:
The Planning Commission along with staff again reviewed the site plan and
subdivision approval policies.The Planning Commission feels that this
policy has been abused due to the fact that consultants and developers have
continually asked to be put onto the agenda at the last minute.The
Commission has come to a decision that the consultant and/or the developer
can still ask to be put onto the agenda at the last minute,but must show
that there is a bonafide hardship involved.The Planning Commission asked
Mr.Hawbaker to write a letter to all consultants stating the revised policy
changes.
Highway Interchange Study:
Mr.Hawbaker informed the Commission that he has briefed the County
Commissioners on the proposed approach to the Highway Interchange Study and
that the Board asked that he develop alternatives to the proposed rezoning.
Those alternatives were mailed to the Planning Commission prior to the
mailing of the April agenda.The Commission asked Mr.Hawbaker to arrange a
joint meeting date with the Economic Development Commission and to inform
both Commissions of the time and place.
Parks Plan Status:
Mr.Stachoviak,Parks Planner,presented to the Planning Commission the
status and review schedule for the Draft Land Preservation and Recreation
Plan.He stated that the Plan will go to the Parks Board for their review
on April 30 and will come to the Planning Commission on May 4 for their
review.Public meetings will be held May 11, 12,and 13.The final review
by the Planning Commission will be on June 1 and the public hearing between
the County Commissioners and the Planning Commission is tentatively
scheduled to be held on June 15.
Senate Bill #865:
Mr.Hawbaker informed the Commission that the Senate Bill #865 is now dead.
He stated that this bill would have preempted all local zoning authority for
mcbile homes location,and if this bill would be passed an individual could
put a mcbile home in any zoning district within the County and would only
have to be concerned about deed restrictions.The Planning Commission asked
Mr.Hawbaker to bring the matter to its attention should it arise in the
future.
Rezoning Cases frcm March 9 and March 24:
James B.Adams/Tony Upchurch -RZ-354 A to RM
A motion was made by Dr.Johns to recommend to the County Commissioners the
approval of this case based on the findings of fact in the Staff
Recommendation.Seconded by Ms.Acord.So ordered.
Text Amendment -RZ-355 Election Signs
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A motion was made by Mr.Iseminger to recommend to the County Commissioners
the approval of this case based on the findings of fact in the Staff
Recommendation.Seconded by Dr.Johns.So ordered.
Text Amendment -RZ-356 Portable Signs
A motion was made by Mr.Iseminger to recommend to the County Commissioners
the disapproval of this case based on the findings of fact in the Staff
Recommendation.Seconded by Ms.Acord.So ordered.
Text Amendment -RZ-358 Airport Runway
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A motion was made by Mr.Zombro to recommend to the County Commissioners the
approval of this case based on the findings of fact in the Staff
Recommendation.Seconded by Mr.Iseminger.
Mr.Hawbaker informed the Commission that Ron Bowers,President of the Board
of County Commissioners,told him that Connie Lieder,Secretary of the
Department of State Planning,will be in Hagerstown on April 15,1987 at
9:30 a.m.to discuss the development at the Antietam Battlefield and the
Grove Farm and that the Planning Commission members should try to attend.
ADJOURNMENT:
There being no further business,the meeting was adjourned at 11:00 p.m.
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WASHINGTON COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION
REGUlAR MEETING -MAY 4,1987
The Washington County Planning Commission held its regular meeting on May 4,
1987 at 7:00 p.m.in the second floor conference room of the County Office
Building.
Present were:Chairman,Jack B.Byers;Vice-Chairman,Donald E.Zombro;Ex-
Officio,Richard E.Roulette;Bertrand L.Iseminger,Dr.Ray Johns,Sidney
Salitsky,and Judith A.Acord.Staff:Executive Director,Jack S.Hawbaker
Senior Planner,Stephen T.Goodrich;Associate Planner,Timothy A.Lung;
Associate Planner,Lisa A.Kelly;Parks Planner,William V.Stachoviak,
Deputy Director of Permits and Inspections,Paul Prodonovich,and Secretary,
Janet L.King.
CALL TO ORDER:
The meeting was called to order by the Chairman at 7:00 p.m.
MINUTES:
Dr.Johns informed the Commission that in the April minutes under the Text
Amendment for RZ-356,he voted against the disapproval of the portable
signs.Mr.Iseminger informed the Commission that under the item for the
Martin Company/Sheetz Store,he voted to disapprove the subdivision.
Mr.Zombro made a motion to approve the minutes of the April meeting as
corrected,seconded by Mr.Iseminger.So ordered.
NEW BUSINESS:
Subdivisions:
Beaverbrook,Section B:
Mr.Lung presented the preliminary plat for Beaverbrook,Section B which is
located west of Cavetown off the south side of Route 64 and west of Route
66.This is a resubdivision of a previously recorded plat for Section B.
The plat has been revised to show a new lot and street layout.There are 17
lots proposed for this subdivision ranging in size from .77 acres to 1.26
acres.The area is zoned Residential Rural.Carroll Road is to be extended
through this section and a new cul-de-sac to be called Dorchester Court is
to be constructed.The proposed lots will be served by public water and
individual on-site septic systems.The County Engineer has approved the
plat with conditions that modifications be made on the final plat and on the
roadway construction drawings.The Health Department has approved the plat
without conditions.The Water Department has approved the plat with
comments that an additional right-of-way is required to Section B of
Havenwood Hills.Gene Walzl of the Water Department stated that the normal
8'utility easement along side lot lines is not sufficient for this right-
of-way.They are requesting their standard 20'right-of-way easement for
the purpose of looping the water line.The Water Department is not sure of
the exact location for the right-of-way,but have been in contact with Mr.
Charles Semler,the owner.The staff feels that the right-of-way location
should be worked out prior to preliminary plat approval,depending on the
location of the right-of-way,septic reserve areas and building setbacks
could be affected.The staff recommended that the Planning Commission give
the authority to approve the preliminary plat once the issue of the right-
of-way is resolved with the Water Department.Mr.Roulette made a motion to
give the staff the authority to approve the preliminary plat based on the
resolution with the Water Department,seconded by Mr.Salitsky.So ordered.
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Site Plans:
John H.Merrbaugh:
Mr.Lung presented the site plan for the development of a truck repair shop
and storage garage.The site is located on the south side of West
Washington Street between the City line and Hump Road.The parcel consists
of 7.46 acres and is presently zoned Industrial General.There is an
existing dwelling and outbuildings on the east side of the property.The
site plan calls for the construction of a 70'x 72'metal building and a
150'x 92'stone truck storage lot.Access to the building and storage lot
will be via a gravel driveway off Hump Road.Approval has been received
from the County Engineer.State Highway Administration has commented that a
note should be placed on the plan stating that all access to the development
be from Hump Road and not from West Washington Street due to the peor site
distance.Written approval has been received from the Water Department but
written approval is pending from Water Pollution Control.Comments have
been received from Paul Prodonovich,Deputy Director of Permits and
Inspections;he feels the following items need to be addressed:1.)there
has been no landscaping plan provided,2.)the number of employees has not
been determined,3.)screening of the building-mounted lights,4.)a note to
be placed on the plan stating that the existing outbuildings can not be used
in conjunction with the business,S.)a note placed on the plan stating that
no outside salvage materials be stored on the site,and 6.)the parking area
infringes on the buffer yard.The Planning staff concurred with the Deputy
Director's comments.A revised site plan was received on May 4,1987 at
3:00 p.m.and appears to meet all the comments expressed by Mr.
Prodonovich.However,the note concerning the access onto West Washington
$treet requested by the State Highway Administration has not been
addressed.The staff is recommending that the Planning Commission approve
the site plan with the following conditions:1.)the additional note
concerning access be placed on the plan and 2.)that the revised plan be
reviewed and approved by all effected agencies prior to any permits being
issued.Mr.Zombro made a motion to approve the site plan with the
conditions stated above.Mr.Roulette seconded.So ordered.
OTHER BUSINESS:
Department of State Planning Study Proposal:
Mr.Hawbaker introduced Constance Lieder,Secretary of The Department of
State Planning,Edwin Thomas,Deputy Secretary and Larry Duket,Principal
Planner.Ms.Lieder discussed the recent controversy involving development
proposals near the Antietam Battlefield which stimulated Governor Shaefer's
interest and concern in protecting the County,State and Federal historic
resource.She stated that as a result of discussions between the Governor
and President of the County Commissioners,Ronald Bowers,she was asked to
help Washington County in studying the south county area.Ms.Lieder feels
that there are three items needed to assure orderly growth in that area.
1.)Look at the historic area and sites and decide what areas to preserve
and also promote tourism in those areas,2.)develop recreation areas,and
the possibility of a second home market,and 3.)prepare for growth in
southern Wasington County and examine teChniques for directing residential
growth.Ms.Lieder stated that the goals in protecting the southern pert ion
of Washington County are to promote tourism,preserve historic,natural and
agricultural resources,and to direct development and growth to the desired
areas.She stated that her department and the Planning Commission should
work jointly to develop a work program.She informed the Planning
Commission that the Department of State Planning will provide the County up
to $50,000 for consultant studies.Ms.Lieder told the Planning Commission
that she would like the work program accomplished in time for the next
General Assembly.She feels the consultant's study should be completed by
September,1987.Ms.Lieder feels that the first step to protect the
southern part of the County is to put together an advisory group,which
would include elected officials,local property owners,preservationists,
and businessmen.After an advisory group is formed,the Department of State
Planning,the County Commissioners,and the County's Planning staff should
meet regularly to review the progress.
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Preliminary Consultations:
Fountainhead Plaza:
Mr.Goodrich informed the Planning Commission that Phase I for Fountainhead
Plaza has been approved.He stated that the Commission should be prepared
to discuss sidewalks in future phases of the development.No action was
taken by the Commission.
Highland Manor:
Mr.Goodrich informed the Planning commission that Phase I has been approved
as a mobile home park but the developer was interested in comments on the
proposal as a mobile home subdivision.He said he strongly advised the
owner on several occassions to stay with one concept of a park or
subdivision,not to mix them.No action was taken by the Commission.
Elk Ridge Associates:
The preliminary consultation for Elk Ridge Associates was presented to the
Commission for its information with nothing to be added by the staff.
Mansoor Shaool:
Mr.Lung informed the Planning Commission that Mr.Shaool met with the
County Commissioners to discuss the sharing of the cost in realigning Mt.
Aetna Road and the public water and sewer problems in the area.The County
Commissioners feel the developer should work with the City and the County to
work out the water and sewer problem.No action was taken by the
Commission.
Highway Interchange Study:
Mr.Hawbaker reviewed the meeting with the Economic Development Commission
that was held on April 20,1987.During that meeting,the Economic
Development Commission and the Planning Commission agreed to devise a Policy
Statement and to meet with the County Commissioners to discuss the Highway
Interchange Study.Mr.Byers told the Commission members that he has
received a request from Economic Development Commission for the Planning
Commission to meet with them again to review the Highway Interchange Study
before meeting with the County Commissioners.The Planning Commission
agreed by concensus to meet with the Economic Development Commission on
Wednesday,May 13,1987 at 7:00 p.m.at Oliver's Restaurant.
Parks Plan Status:
Mr.Stachoviak explained to the Planning Commission that the draft Land
Preservation and Recreation Plan is the result of revising,updating,and
expanding the 1982 Open Space,Parks and Recreation Plan to meet local and
state needs.He stated that the draft Plan had been reviewed by the Park I s
Board and copies sent to town Mayors and Councils and public service
agencies for review and comments.He asked the Commission's approval of the
news release meetings,and informed the Commission that they will review the
draft Plan and all comments received at the June meeting.In response to
requests for more information,Mr.Stachoviak informed the commission
members that they would be mailed a copy of the draft Plan.
Proposed Rezoning Text Amendment:
Mr.Hawbaker informed the Planning Commission that a text amendment is
needed to permit the Zoning enforcement personnel to go onto a property to
do inspections.He stated that at the present time the Zoning Ordinance
does not state whether this is allowed or not.He is requesting that this
text amendment be added to the June 8,1987 Rezoning Hearing.Mr.Salitsky
made a motion to add the text amendment to the agenda for the June 8
hearing,seconded by Ms.Acord.So ordered.
ADJOURNMENT:
There being no further business,the meeting was adjourned at 9:00 p.m.
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WASHINGTON COUNTY PlANNING COMMISSION
REGUlAR MEETING -JUNE 1,1987
The Washington County Planning Commission held its regular meeting on June
1,1987 at 7:00 p.m.in the second floor conference room of the County
Office Building.
Present were:Chairman,Jack B.Byers;Vice-Chairman,Donald E.Zombro;Ex-
Officio,Richard E.Roulette;Bertrand L.Iseminger,Dr.Ray Johns,Sidney
Salitsky,and Judith A.Acord.Staff:Executive Director,Jack S.Hawbaker
Senior Planner,Stephen T.Goodrich;Associate Planner,Timothy A.Lung;
Associate Planner,Lisa A.Kelly;Parks Planner,William V.Stachoviak,
Deputy Director of Permits and Inspections,Paul Prodonovich;and Secretary,
Janet L.King.
CALL TO ORDER:
The meeting was called to order by the Chairman at 7:00 p.m.
MINUTES:
Mr.Zombro made a motion to approve the minutes of the May meeting as
submitted,seconded by Mr.Salitsky.So ordered.
NEW BUSINESS:
variances:
Terry and Donna Hamilton:
Mr.Lung presented the variance for Terry and Donna Hamilton which is
located in the southern portion of Washington County approximately .9 mile
south of Samples Manor,west of Hoffmaster Road.The Hamilton's are
requesting the variance to allow for the conveyance for a parcel of land
without pUblic road frontage to a non-immediate family member.In 1983,the
subdivision plat was approved for the conveyance of 3.21 acres without
public road frontage to George S.and Paula Jamison to an immediate family
member,Donna Hamilton.The remaining 93.48 acres from which the subject
parcel was subdivided has been sold.It has been 3 1/2 years since the
subdivision has been approved and Mr.and Mrs.Hamilton wish to sell their
property.Dr.Johns made a motion to grant the variance based on a hardship
that would result from strict compliance to the Ordinance,seconded by Mr.
Roulette.So ordered.
Gretchen Van Hyning:
Mr.Lung presented the variance for Gretchen Van Hyning and Thomas A.Low
who are contract purchasers of a 64.11 acre parcel which is currently owned
by Richard T.Ward.The site is located on the west side of MD Route 65
north of Sharpsburg.The applicant is requesting a variance from the
Washington County Highway Plan which requires 500 feet of separation between
access points on to a Minor Arterial Highway.The applicant is proposing to
subdivide this parcel into six approximately 10 acre parcels.Five of the
proposed lots will have panhandles;the northern two lots will have a shared
access onto MD Route 65,the remaining three lots will have one shared
access and one individual access at the southern portion of the parcel.A
total of three new access points are being proposed,none of these points
meet the separation requirements of the Highway Plan.The State Highway
Administration has commented that site distance at the southern most
entrances is good.At the north,site distance is approximately 400 feet
due to a hill located to the north.The State Highway Administration stated
that this is marginal but acceptable.Mr.Lung informed the Planning
Commission that this site is the subject of a rezoning case,RZ-359,which
was filed by Richard T.Ward to rezone the property from "A"to "RM".Mr.
Lung stated that what the applicant of the variance is requesting would be
allowed under the current "A"zoning.Mr.Zombro made a motion to grant the
variance based on a hardship that would result from strict compliance to the
Ordinance,seconded by Mr.Roulette with a provision that if the rezoning
does occur and the applicant does not purchase the property,the variance is
void.So ordered.
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After a brief discussion in regards to the rezoning case,Mr.Roulette made
a motion to reconsider the vote to approve the variance for Van Hyning,
seconded by Ms.Acord.
Mr.Roulette made a motion to withdraw the action taken on the variance
request from Gretchen Van Hyning and to table any futher action until a
future date,seconded by Mr.Salitsky.Six Ccmnission members voted to
withdraw the approval;Mr.Zombro voted no.Motion carried to withdraw.
So ordered.
Mr.Roulette explained to the applicant of the variance that the Planning
Commission will be reviewing the application for rezoning of the same parcel
of land at a public hearing on June 8,1987.Mr.Roulette made a motion to
table the variance until the July meeting,seconded by Dr.Johns.So
ordered.
Village Green --Wiley:
Mr.Lung presented the variance for Village Green which was submitted by
Davis,Renn and Shrader as part of a subdivision plat and site plan on
behalf of Howard C.and Anne H.Wiley.The Wileys are contract purchasers
of a one-acre parcel of land currently owned by Leitersburg Pike Land
Associates.The site is located on the northeast corner of Leitersburg Pike
and Longmeadow Road.The variance is being requested from the Washington
County Highway Plan which requires 300 feet of access separation along a
Minor Arterial Highway.The Wileys are proposing to construct a small
shopping center consisting of four retail stores.The entrance to the site
will be via Longmeadow Road.The proposed entrance is located 225 feet
north of the centerline of the intersection with Leitersburg Pike and
approximately 120 feet south of an existing commerical entrance to Robert
Fischel's veterinary clinic.The County Engineer has no objection to the
proposed entrance location;however,he will be commenting on the design of
the entrance during the site plan review.The State Highway Administration
has no objection to the entrance;however,they recommended that a 10-12
foot wide traffic bearing shoulder be provided from the intersection of
Route 60 to the proposed entrance.Mr.Lung noted that there isn't any
location along the Longmeadow Road frontage of the property that can meet
the separation requirements.Dr.Johns made a motion to grant the variance
based on a hardship that may result from strict compliance with the
Ordinance,seconded by Mr.Roulette.So ordered.
Subdivisions:
Susan's Orchards,Lots 6-11:
Miss Kelly presented the preliminary and final subdivision plat for Susan's
Orchards,Lots 6-11.The property contains six proposed lots for
residential use.The site is located on the south side of Mercersburg Road
.2 miles south of its intersection with Dry Run Road.The proposed lots
range in size from 1.5 acres to 11 acres and the site is zoned Agriculture.
All proposed lots will have individual wells and septic systems.All agency
approvals have been received accept for the Health Department.Mr.
Iseminger made a motion to approve the preliminary and final subdivision
plat pending receipt of Health Department approval,seconded by Dr.Johns.
So ordered.
OTHER BUSINESS:
South County Study Status:
Mr.Hawbaker informed the Planning Commission that Ed Thomas and Larry Duket
from the Department of State Planning were present to give a brief rundown
on the South County StUdy area.Mr.Thomas stated that it was his intention
that the Department of State Planning attend the monthly Planning Commission
meetings to apprise the Ccmnission of the current status of the study.He
stated that the Department of State Planning has been doing preliminary work
with the study and has adopted the project description that was reviewed at
the May meeting taking into consideration the comments that were made about
the Battlefield buffering.He stated that the Department has prepared a
draft contract which will result in the transfer of $50,000 to the County to
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be spent on the consultant study.This contract covers three of the work
program projects,with two of those projects dealing with housing and the
other dealing with recreation of historic sites.Mr.Thomas reminded the
Commission of its interest in forming an advisory group.Mr.Roulette
informed Mr.Thomas that the County Commissioners are in the process of
forming the group and will be discussing the southern part of the county
with the municipalities.He stated that the Department of State Planning
should have the recommendations within the next several days.Mr.Larry
Duket demonstrated to the Planning Commission the various technical data
available through computer mapping on the southern part of Washington
County.Mr.Thomas concluded by saying that he would report monthly to the
Commission on the study status.
Subdivisions
Andrew J.Michael,Lots 4-6:
Mr.Lung presented the preliminary and final plat for a three lot
residential subdivision for Andrew Michael.The site is located on the
north side of Dry Run Road west of Route 57.The property is zoned
Agricultural and the lots will be 2.12 acres,1.87 acres,and 1.79 acres.
Each lot will have individual wells and septic system as well as its own
driveway onto Dry Run Road.Approvals have been received from the County
Engineer and the Health Department.Mr.Salitsky made a motion to approve
the preliminary and final plat,seconded by Dr.Johns.So ordered.
Rolling Hills,Section B:
Mr.Lung presented the preliminary subdivision plat for Rolling Hills,Block
6,Section B.The site is located on the south side of Longmeadow Road west
of Paradise Church Road.Rolling Hills consists of 16 lots varying in size
from 31,900 square feet and 13,300 square feet.All lots will have frontage
on a new County road called Manchester Drive.There is no access allowed
off of Longmeadow Road.All lots will be served by public water and sewer.
Approvals have been received from the Washington County Sanitary District
and the City of Hagerstown Water Pollution Control Department.The City
Water Department requested revisions to the construction drawings before its
approval of the preliminary plat.The approval from the Health Department
is pending based on the Water Department's approval.The County Engineer
has approved the Preliminary Plat but has requested that sorne revisions be
made to the Final Plat.The staff is recommending preliminary approval
based on the following conditions:1.)preliminary plat be revised to
satisfy the Water Department I s comments and 2.)Health Department approval
is received prior to the signing of the plat by the Executive Director.Dr.
Jams made a motion to approve the preliminary plat based on the stated
conditions,seconded by Mr.Salitsky.So ordered.
Rocky Springs,Section A-3,Phase 3:
Mr.Lung presented the preliminary subdivision plat for Rocky Spring Acres
consisting of 9 residential lots.The site is located on the east side of
Route 40-A south of Funkstown.The proposed lots vary in size from 1.01
acres to 3.04 acres.All the lots will have road frontage onto an extension
of Mar-Rock Drive.Each lot will have individual wells and septic systems.
The Health Department has reviewed the plat;all perc tests have passed and
they have requested a minor change to some of the reserve areas.These
changes have been made and the revised copy of the plat has been sent to the
Health Department.The County Engineer has approved the preliminary plat
but he has requested sorne revisions to the final plat.The staff is
recommending preliminary approval upon receipt of approval from the Health
Department.Dr.Johns made a motion to approve the preliminary plat
contingent upon Health Department approval,seconded by Mr.Salitsky.So
ordered.
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Preliminary Consultations:
Holiday Estates:
The preliminary consultation for Holiday Estates was presented to the
Planning Commission for its information with nothing to be added by the
staff.
OTHER BUSINESS:
Annual Election of Officers:
Dr.Johns made a motion to nominate Jack Byers for Chairman of the Planning
Commission,seconded by Ms.Acord.Mr.Roulette made a motion to close the
nominations for Chairman,seconded by Mr.Salitsky.
Mr.Salitsky made a motion to nominate Donald Zombro for Vice-Chairman of.
the Planning Commission,seconded by Dr.Johns.Mr.Roulette made a motion
to close the nominations for Vice-Chairman,seconded by Mr.Salitsky.
Mr.Jack Byers and Mr.Donald Zombro will be Chairman and Vice-Chairman of
the Washington County Planning Commission for one year.
Site Plan Review:
Mr.Hawbaker reminded the Commission that consultants have asked about
landscape provisions,minor additions to site plans and to have the Planning
staff review site plans prior to application being made with the Permits
Qffice.
He stated that the consultants suggested that the landscaping design on a
site plan be deferred until a future time,such as when a use and occupancy
permit is issued.The consultants feel that after the building and parking
lot is designed,they can then discuss landscaping with their clients.
After a brief discussion,by concensus the Planning Commission did not make
any changes to the landscape provisions of the Ordinance.
Mr.Hawbaker stated the consultants were questioning minor additions to the
site.They want to know if this can be done without resubmitting the entire
site plan.Mr.Hawbaker stated that the Subdivision Ordinance states that
for a minor addition a site plan is not needed.After a brief discussion,
by concensus there were no changes made.
Mr.Roulette stated that the consultants are also concerned about the review
policy for site plans.They would like the Planning staff to review the
site plan so as to avoid a duplicating effort.Mr.Prodonovich stated that
he needs to review them if a permit will be issued.After a discussion,it
was decided that the Planning Commission staff and.Mr.Prodonovich meet to
determine the most effective way of reviewing site plans.
Merrbaugh/County/Gossard Subdivision:
Mr.Goodrich explained that the Planning Commission has reviewed the
Merrbaugh subdivision and site plan many times.The site consists of 7
acres along W.Washington Street and a panhandle to Hump Road.At the
present time,the County Commissioners are proposing another subdivision to
Herb Gossard.Mr.Merrbaugh will convey to the County a portion of his land
which in turn the County will convey to Gossard.This conveyance will give
the Gossard parcel frontage on a public road.In return,Mr.Merrbaugh will
have conveyed to him by the County Commissioners a strip of land 250'x 50'
wide to Main Avenue.The staff is requesting that the Planning Commission
reaffirm the conditions on the Merrbaugh site plan that access will be via
Hump Road and not W.Washington Street.By concensus,the Planning
Commission reaffirmed the conditions of site plan approval.
Sherry Glenn Subdivision:
Mr.Hawbaker explained that the Sherry Glenn subdivision expired and was not
recorded within the two year limit.The staff is requesting a 30-day
extension to recertify the plat so it can be recorded in the Clerk of the
Court's office.Ms.Acord made a motion to grant the 30-dayextension,
seconded by Mr.Salitsky.So ordered.
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Parks Plan Review:
Dr.Johns wanted Mr.Stachoviak to explain the population projections in the
Parks Plan.Mr.Stachoviak explained that the population projections were
developed by the Planning staff for the previous Plan in 1980.He stated
that since then the Department of State Planning developed less optimistic
projections and these are the figures that were used in this Plan.
Mr.Byers noted that he has a problem with the County funding the Farm Land
Preservation Program.He feels that the taxpayers will not benefit from
this.Mr.Stachoviak stated that this item was taken directly from the
Comprehensive Plan.
Mr.Iseminger questioned the concept of cluster subdividing.Mr.Stachoviak
stated that the developer can cluster homes on part of the property and
leave the remaining for open space.
Mr.Stachoviak explained that there will be three public meetings during the
month of June.The comments from the public meetings will be reported to
the Planning Commission at the July meeting.By concensus,the Planning
Commission told the staff to proceed with advertising for the public
meetings.
Boonsboro Water and Sewer Plan Admendment:
A request from the Town of Boonsboro for an administrative amendment to the
Water and Sewerage Plan was presented to the Planning Commission.According
to Tables #9 and 12 in the Water and Sewerage Plan,the design capacity of
the Boonsboro sewage treatment plant is shown as 400,000 gallons per day.
The Town has advised that according to the manual for operation and
maintenance of the treatment plant the design capacity is 460,000 gallons
per day.Ms.Acord made a motion to approve the administrative amendment to
the Water and Sewerage Plan as requested by the Town of Boonsboro,seconded
by Mr.Salitsky.Mr.Goodrich stated that all the appropriate agencies,
including the State Health Department,will be notified of the change.
Highway Interchange Study:
Mr.Hawbaker stated that during the May 13,1987 meeting with Economic
Development Commission,the Planning Commission asked him to explore another
way to address the HI Study.He stated that he has come up with the HI-l
and HI-2 possibilities for the HI study.Mr.Roulette asked about looking
at some permitted uses in the present HI District as being candidates for
the special exception category.Mr.Byers stated that he feels that in the
HI-l category there should be no residential uses;HI-2 should have
apartments and maybe townhouses;and HI-3 should have normal residential
uses that are allowed now in all HI districts.After a brief discussion,
the Commission concurred with Mr.Hawbaker that additional study is needed
and agreed to notify EDC that the June 9 meeting must be postponed until
another concept can be developed.Mr.Hawbaker said he'd begin his analysis
in hopes of rescheduling the joint review at an early date.Other
possibilities can be discussed.
Smithsburg Town Growth Area Development:
Mr.Hawbaker informed the Planning Commission that he has sent a letter to
Barry Teach in regard to the Town Growth Area Boundary for Smithsburg.Mr.
Goodrich informed the Planning Commission that the Planning staff has
received a copy of a concept plan for Doug Bachtell in the Smithsburg area.
He requested that the Planning Commission authorize a formal request to the
Smithsburg Planning Commission for review of all projects within the
Smithsburg Town Growth Area Boundary.After a brief discussion,Ms.Acord
made a motion to make a formal request to be involved in developments in
Smithsburg,seconded by Mr.'Salitsky.So ordered.
ADJOURNMENT:
There being no further business,the meeting was adjourned at 10:45 p.m.
Jack B.Byers,Chairman
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WASHINGTON COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION
REGUlAR MEETING -JULY 6,1987
The Washington County Planning Commission held its regular meeting on July
6,1987 at 7:00 PM in Court Room No.1 of the Court House.
Present were:Chairman,Jack B.Byers;Vice-Chairman,Donald E.Zanbro;Ex-
Officio,Richard E.Roulette;Bertrand L.Iseminger,Judith A.Acord,Sidney
Salitsky,and Dr.Ray Johns.Staff:Executive Director,Jack S.Hawbaker;
Senior Planner,Stephen T.Goodrich;Associate Planner,Timothy A.Lung;
Associate Planner,Lisa A.Kelly;Parks Planner,William V.Stachoviak;
Deputy Director of Permits and Inspections,Paul Prodonovich,and Secretary,
Janet L.King.
CALL TO ORDER:
The meeting was called to order by the Chairman at 7:00 PM.
Brightwood Acres/Londontawne Section B Connection:
Mr.Hawbaker began by stating that he had been approached by citizens from
the Brightwood Acres neighborhood expressing their concern about current
construction in Section B of Londontawne and the proposed road connection
between Londontowne Section D of Brightwood Acres.He explained that
Section A of Londontawne is off Landis and Day Roads,that future Section C
is to the east of Section B,that Section D is along Landis Road,and that
all sections were the subject of discussion between the County and City
Planning Commissions and the developer in 1982.Mr.Hawbaker stated that
the Planning Commission in January 1980 gave Mr.Sheedy,developer of
Londontawne,permission to make a future connection between Section B of
Londontowne and Section D of Brightwood Acres.In the 1982 discussions
between the two Commissions and Mr.Sheedy,agreements were reached whereby
future development in Section C would be provided access to Mt.Aetna Road
via a road,the alignment of which is yet to be determined,possibly across
Ditto Farms Park land.Mr.Hawbaker stated that Mr.Sheedy recently met
with the County Commissioners and the representatives of Brightwood Acres to
discuss the concerns of the Brightwood Acres residents.A possible
compromise was discussed whereby lands would be exchanged between Mr.Sheedy
and the County with Mr.Sheedy acquiring a portion of the western end of the
park lands to construct a road and the County acquiring the northern part of
Section C plus some land in Section A.Mr.Hawbaker informed the Commission
that Section D of Brightwood Acres was recorded in 1970 and shows a portion
of land reserved for future development,all of which was subsequently
purchased by Mr.Sheedy for connecting Section B of Londontawne with Section
D of Brightwood Acres.
At this time,Attorney John Urner spoke for the residents of Brightwood
Acres and asked the Commission to reconsider and reverse the previous
approval to link Section B of Londontowne to Brightwood Acres because of the
adverse effect the new traffic would have on existing residences in
Brightwood Acres.
At this time,Attorney William Wantz spoke for Mr.Sheedy,the
developer of Londontawne,and said that Mr.Sheedy,in developing the
various sections of Londontowne,intends that they complement existing
development in Brightwood Acres.He went on to say that the recorded plat
for Brightwood Acres indicates that there was always intended for an access
road to be constructed between Maplewood Drive and the remaining lands to
the east.He stated that the owners in Brightwood Acres knew that at some
point in the future these lands would be developed.Mr.Wantz stated that
Mr.Sheedy is proposing to develop single-family homes on this parcel
similar to the type of residential development in Brightwood Acres with only
42 homes in the western portion of Section B on lots ranging from 13,000
square feet to 50,000 square feet.Only this portion of Section B is to
have access to Maplewood Drive with the remaining part of Section B having
access across either Section B or a new road out to Mt.Aetna Road.The
road in Section B is to be designed so as to prevent the eastern portion
fran having access onto Maplewood Drive.Mr.Byers stated that the Planning
Commission will not be making a final decision at this time but that it will
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decide in the near future and will respond to the Brightwood Acres
residents.He said that any further comments can be made in writing within
the next week.
MINUTES:
There were some changes to the minutes of the June 1 regular meeting.The
minutes should have said that the motion to grant the Gretchen Van Hyning
variance was unanimously approved prior to it being tabled.Under the South
County Study,the word of historic sites should be changed to and historic
sites.Under the Boonsboro water and Sewer Plan,the motion to approve the
amendment was unanimously carried.
Mr.Zombro made a motion to approve the minutes of the June meeting as
corrected,seconded by Mr.Iseminger.So ordered.
Mr.Iseminger made a motion to approve the minutes of the Sheetz Store,
seconded by Mr.Salitsky.So ordered.
Mr.Zombro made a motion to approve the minutes of the Special Meeting held
on June 26,seconded by Mr.Iseminger.So ordered.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS:
Gretchen Van Hyning Variance:
Mr.Hawbaker stated that the variance for Gretchen Van Hyning was tabled at
last month's meeting due to the rezoning hearing on June 8,1987.After a
brief review of the variance request by Mr.Lung,Mr.Zombro made a motion
to table the variance because Ms.Van Hyning was not in attendance to
present her request.The motion was seconded by Mr.Salitsky.So ordered.
NEW BUSINESS:
Variances:
Robert J.Johnson:
Mr.Lung presented the variance for Robert Johnson who is requesting that
the Commission release him from the 5-year condition of the Subdivision
Ordinance attached to land conveyed to an immediate family member without
public road frontage.The subject site is located on the south side of U.S.
40 near the intersection of Spickler Road.Mr.Johnson is proposing to
convey the existing lot to someone not a family member within the 5-year
period for the subdivision approved by the Commission in October 1984.This
parcel was conveyed by Reed Johnson to his grandson,Robert Johnson.Robert
Johnson's request is based on financial difficulties;two and 2/3 years have
passed since the subdivision was approved.The property has access to Route
40 via a right-of-way awned by James Johnson who does not object to the
selling of this parcel.There are currently four residences using this
existing right-of-way.Mr.Iseminger made a motion to approve the variance
based on a hardship that would result from strict compliance to the
Ordinance,seconded by Mr.Roulette.So ordered.
Marlin Durbin:
Mr.Goodrich presented the variance for Marlin Durbin.The subject site is
located on the south side of MD Route 68 east of College Road.The variance
is being requested from the Highway Plan which requires 500 feet of
separation between access points.Mr.Durbin is proposing to create a new
access without the required separation.The County Engineer has not
reviewed the variance because of the late submittal and the fact that he has
no authority on a state road.State Highway Administration stated that site
distance is marginal;verbal approval has been received.The staff is
recommending disapproval because site distance is marginal and the access
can be provided more safely from the existing lane on the remaining lands.
Mr.Durbin stated that he feels his hardship is that if he would move the
access,it would be where the septic system is proposed.Mr.Zombro made a
motion to approve the variance based on a hardship that would result from
strict compliance to the Ordinance,seconded by Ms.Acord.So ordered.
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Kathy Oberosler:
Mr.Goodrich presented the variance for Kathy Oberosler.The subject site
is located on the northwest side of Robinwood Drive.The variance is being
requested from the Highway Plan which requires 300 feet of separation
between access points on a Major Collector roadway.Ms.Oberosler is
proposing to create a new access point with less than the required
separation,205 feet to the south and 45 feet to the north.Mr.Goodrich
stated that site distance is good in both directions.The County Engineer
has had no comments,but approval is subject to his review of a plat.Mr.
Zombro made a motion to approve the variance based on a hardship that would
result from strict compliance to the Ordinance and also based on the County
Engineer's approval,seconded by Ms.Acord.So ordered.
Donald Thomas:
Miss Kelly presented the variance for Donald Thomas.The subject site is
located along the southside of MD Route 68,.8 miles west of Alternate Route
40.The variance is being requested from Section 405.2(a)of the
Subdivision Ordinance which states that the Highway Plan requires a minimum
distance of 500 feet between access points on a minor collector roadway.
Mr.Thomas is proposing to create one entrance that will serve four
residential lots.This driveway will be located approximately 250 feet east
of an existing entrance which serves the remaining lands of Mr.Thomas.
State Highway Administration has no objection to the four entrances coming
off the existing driveway.Ms.Acord made a motion to approve the variance
based on a hardship that would result from strict compliance to the
Ordinance,seconded by Dr.Johns.So ordered.
w.Louis Plummer,Jr.:
Miss Kelly presented the variance for W.Louis Plummer,Jr.The subject
site is located on the southside of East Oak Ridge Drive,.2 miles west of
Funkstown.The variance is being requested from Section 405.2(a)of the
Subdivision Ordinance which states that the Highway Plan requires a minimum
distance of 300 feet between access points on a major collector roadway.
Mr.Plummer is proposing to create an entrance for commercial purposes
within 300 feet of an existing entrance by subdividing a 1.8 acre lot from
his 25 acre tract.Access to the commercial site will be provided by an
entrance off of East Oak Ridge Drive.The proposed entrance location is
approximately 90 +feet west of an existing residential driveway,210 feet
closer than the required amount.The County Engineer has no problem with
the variance,but no written approval has yet been received.Mr.Roulette
made a motion to approve the variance based on a hardship that would result
from strict compliance to the Ordinance and also based on County Engineer's
approval,seconded by Mr.Iseminger.So ordered.
Subdivisions:
Brightwood Acres,Lot 4:
Miss Kelly presented the preliminary/final plat and site plan for Brightwood
Acres,Lot 4,located on the south side of East Oak Ridge Drive.It is the
same site that was the subject of the above requested variance.The
proposed building site has a current zoning of Highway Interchange.There
are no existing structures on the site and it is currently covered with
trees and brush.A 30 x 60 foot building will be constructed to be used as
a beauty parlor.There will be 13 parking spaces in the front portion of
the site.An individual well and septic system will serve the site.The
proposed entrance will be off Oak Ridge Drive.Mr.Roulette made a motion
to approve the preliminary/final plat and site plan,seconded by Ms.Acord.
So ordered.
Village Green:
Mr.Lung presented the preliminary/final plat and site plan for Village
Green,a small shopping center to be located on a .92 acre lot in the
northeast quadrant of Longmeadow Road and Leitersburg Pike.The applicant
is proposing to construct four retail shops with area of 8,000 square feet.
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There will be a single entrance/exit onto Longmeadow Road.The Planning
Staff met with the developer and theirconsultant on June 4 and at that time
indicated the changes necessary to bring the Site Plan into compliance with
the standards of the Zoning Ordinance.The revised Site Plan,Mr.Lung
informed the Commission,was received today at 3:30,and there has not been
time for review to determine if it contains the necessary corrections.One
of the principal concerns relayed by the Staff to the consultant and
developer was the need for additional parking spaces.The lack of adequate
parking was a concern of both the Planning Staff,the Permits and
Inspections Office and the County Engineer.The revised plan must be now be
resubmitted to all agencies.Mr.Shrader stated that a revision was made to
the plan to add additional parking spaces.Approval has been received from
the State Highway Administration and the County Engineer on the subdivision
plat.The County Engineer has requested revisions to the site plan to add
'no parking'signs along Longmeadow Road.The Health Department has
requested a revision to the septic area.Mr.Roulette made a motion to
approve the preliminary/final plat and site plan upon the receipt of all
agency approvals,seconded by Mr.Zombro.So ordered.
James Pasike,Jr.:
Miss Kelly presented the preliminary/final plat for James Pasike.The
property is located on the north side of Woburn Road.The subject site is
zoned agriculture.Mr.Pasike is proposing to create 4 residential lots
with an area of between 1 to 9 acres.Each lot will have individual well
and septic systems.All agency approvals have been received.Mr.Iseminger
made a motion to approve the preliminary/final plat,seconded by Dr.Johns.
So ordered.
Mike and Cathy Jordon:
Mr.Lung presented the preliminary/final plat for Mike and Cathy Jordon for
a residential subdivision to be located on the south side of Dellinger Road
east of Neck Road.Lots 1 and 2 will consist of 4 acres;lot 3,6.02 acres;
and lot 4,7.05 acres.Lots 2,3,and 4 will have access by 3,25 foot
panhandles,lot 1 will have 387 feet of frontage on Dellinger Road.Each
lot will have its own well and septic system.Approvals have been received
from the County Engineer and the Health Department.Dr.Johns made a motion
to approve the preliminary/final plat,seconded by Mr.Salitsky.So
ordered.
John R.Thomas Service Garage:
Mr.Lung presented the preliminary plat and site plan for John R.Thomas
Service Garage,which is located east of Antietam Drive.The subject site
is zoned IG.Mr.Thomas is proposing to construct a 40 x 100 foot building
with gravel parking area to be used for a truck service garage.Access to
the site is via an existing private gravel road which adjoins a paved
private road to 1.C. C.Cement Company.The Planning Commission granted a
variance to create this lot without pUblic road frontage at its June 1,1987
meeting.The septic locations are unacceptable to the Health Department due
to the presence of rock,and new septic location and perc tests were
requested.The Washington County Soil Conservation District and County
Engineer approvals have been received.Comments were received from the
Permits Office stating that additional parking spaces need to be provided,a
landscape plan needs to be submitted,and a note should be placed on the
plat that no junk and/or salvage materials shall be stored on the premises.
The staff suggested that the Planning Commission grant approval based on
receipt of the revised plat and all agency approvals.Mr.Zombro made a
motion to grant the staff authority to approve under those conditions,
seconded by Ms.Acord.So ordered.
Site Plans:
D.L.George and Sons:
Miss Kelly presented the site plan for D.L.George and Sons which is
located at the end of Mason-Dixon Lane and south of State Line Road.She
stated that the site plan was first approved by the Planning Commission in
January,1986.This is a revised site plan which is similar to the first;
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however,the parking area has been doubled in size.The proposed land use
of this subject site will be truck parking area and a dispatch office.Mr.
Prodonovich informed the Cormnission that the site work has already be
accanplished by the owner.Ms.Acord made a motion to approve the site
plan,seconded by Dr.Johns.So ordered.
ornER BUSINESS:
Residential Subdivision Utility Boxes:
The review of utility boxes on residential lots in subdivisions resulted
fran the matter being referred by Commissioner Bowers to the Planning
Cormnission because of concerns expressed by residents in the Potomac Heights
subdivsion.Mr.Hawbaker told the Commission that he and Cormnissioner
Bowers had toured a number of subdivisions recently with representatives
from Potomac Edison in order to assess the visual impact that utility boxes
may have in those subdivisions.The representatives from the public
utilities were Nancy Neff and Paul Stiller fran Potomac Edison,Robert
Shipley from C &P Telephone,and Mr.Callahan from Antietam Cable.Miss
Neff and Mr.Stiller explained to the Commission the matter in which the
utilities are regulated by the Public Service Cormnission in the placement of
utility boxes,which for the most part house transformers that formerly
would have been on utility poles.They informed the Cormnission that the
placement of these transformers below ground is impractical because of
inadequate access for repair as well as moisture problems.The utility
representatives did conceed that more care should be exercised by the land
developer in the canpaction of soil before the placement of utility boxes.
The Potomac Edison representatives provided the commission with recormnended
specifications for the planting of landscaping around these boxes.After a
brief discussion,the Cormnission agreed by concensus that since the
placement of these utility boxes on residential lots constitutes an
essential service,no further action is needed on the part of the
Cormnission.The Commission instructed the Executive Director to inform the
Board of County Commissioners of its action in this matter.
South County StUdy Status Report:
Mr.Larry Duket,fran the Department of State Planning informed the Planning
Commission of the status of the South County study.He stated the contract
has been signed by the Department of State Planning and the County.The
work programs for the consultant's study have been prepared in draft form.
He stated that the Department has reviewed the Antietam Plan for the
Battlefield buffers,and they have acquired aerial photos for the study
area.
Preliminary Consultation:
oliver Britner:
The preliminary consultation for Oliver Britner was presented to the
Planning Cormnission for its information only with nothing to be added by the
staff.
Lobo Acres:
The preliminary consultation for Lobo Acres was presented to the Planning
Cormnission for its information only with nothing to be added by the staff.
Windsor Farms:
Mr.Lung informed the Cormnission that the proposed 71 lot residential
subdivision called Windsor Farms is not in conformance with the
Comprehensive Plan due to its location outside of the Growth Area on Prime
Agricultural land,within non-tidal wetlands and near the headwaters of a
class III natural trout stream.The Town of Boonsboro is concerned with the
development because it would not be able to serve the proposed development
with public facilities;if the septic systems fail and the wells go bad.
Mr.Hawbaker informed the Cormnission that the development of 71 residential
lots in one subdivision in the rural area of the County is not consistent
with the Canprehensive Plan because of the resulting loss of agricultural
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land,the problems resulting to groundwater from septic systems,and the
future likelihood that subdivisions of this nature will create a demand for
costly infrastructure.He reminded the Commission that it removed from the
annual work program in January,1987 those elements of the Plan intended to
address rural development.By consensus,the Commission agreed that
continued development of this sort may impose unwarranted problems for the
County.The Commission instructed Mr.Hawbaker to place the elements of the
Plan again on the work program for the next calendar year.
Fieldstone Acres:
Mr.Lung reminded the Commission of the Text Amendment recently approved to
Zoning Ordinance eliminating the 600 foot cul-de-sac length.He stated that
on the preliminary consultation for Fieldstone Acres,the developer is
proposing a 1,200 foot cul-de-sac and asking for the Planning Commission's
approval.Mr.Lung stated that the County Engineer has no problem with the
length of the cul-de-sac,and he has had no respcnse to date from the
affected fire department.By concensus,the Planning Commission sees no
problem with the length of the proposed cul-de-sac.
Water and Sewer Plan Status:
Mr.Hawbaker informed the Commission that the State Health Department has
recently approved the updated Water and Sewerage Plan.No action was
required by the Commission.
Parks Plan Status:
Mr.Stachoviak informed the Commission that public review meetings were held
on the Parks Plan without a great deal of public response.He stated that a
public hearing will be held in the future by the County Commissioners at one
of their regular meetings.The draft version of the Parks Plan is still in
work and is expected to be completed shortly for distribution to all
interested parties prior to the public hearing.
Site Plan Review:
Mr.Hawbaker stated that the staff has met with Paul Prodonovich to discuss
the site plan review concept and that site plans will now be submitted to
the Permit Office to be reviewed within one day of the application.If Mr.
Prodonovich's workload does not permit,he will send a copy of the site
plan to the Planning Office to be reviewed by the staff,after which a
response will be forwarded back to the Permit Office.This will provide the
Permit Office with the necessary information for processing the site plan to
the reviewing agencies or for returning it to the consultant for any
necessary revisions.
Subdivision Roads -Roger Wolf:
Mr.Hawbaker stated that the Wolfs asked the County Commissioners to upgrade
the private section of Brown road leading back to their subdivision to
County standards.He stated that the County Commissioners informed the
Wolfs that it is up to the developer to build the road and then convey it to
the County for maintenance purposes.The Planning Commission is
recommending that the County Commissioners abide by the adopted policies
concerning private roads in the County and disallow the request from the
Wolfs for financing road construction that would benefit a private
developer.In making this recommendation,the Commission affirms the
position taken by the Board in its letter to the Wolfs of 1986.
Highway Interchange Study:
Mr.Hawbaker informed the Commission that he now has a revised concept for
the Highway Interchange district that will retain the desired flexibility
while eliminating some of the conflict characteristic of the present HI
structure.Another meeting with the Economic Development Commission is now
in order.After a brief discussion,the dates July 29 or July 30,1987 were
decided on to meet with EDC.Mr.Hawbaker said he would arrange for a date
and notify both Commissions by memo.
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Ca.lMUNICATIONS:
Letter from Halfway Volunteer Fire Company:
Mr.Hawbaker stated that he received a letter from Douglas DeHaven,
Assistant Chief of Halfway Volunteer Fire Company who stated that the fire
company is concerned with development along Hump Road and with its ability
to provide adequate fire protection to these businesses.After a brief
discussion,Mr.Iseminger made a motion to have the Executive Director write
a letter to the County Commissioners expressing the Commission's agreement
with the fire company regarding this matter.He suggested enclosing a copy
of the letter from Mr.DeHaven.Dr.Johns seconded the motion.So ordered.
Rezoning Cases from June 8,1987 Public Hearing:
RZ-357 -R.Martin Palmer,Jr.,HP-BL to HP-A
A motion was made by Mr.Zombro to recommend to the County Commissioners
that this case be denyed based on the testimony of the public hearing and
the findings of fact in the Staff Report and Analysis and the Staff
Recommendation.Dr.Johns seconded.So ordered.
RZ-360 -Board of County Commissioners,A to IG
A motion was made by Dr.Johns to recommend to the County Commissioners that
this case be approved based on the testimony at the public hearing and the
findings of fact in the Staff Report and Analysis and the Staff
Recommendation.Seconded by Mr.Salitsky.So ordered.
RZ-361 -Kenneth Ritter,RR to BL
A motion was made by Mr.Salitsky to recommend to the County Commissioners
that this case be denied based on the testimony of the public hearing and
the findings of fact in the Staff Report and Analysis and the Staff
Recommendation.Seconded by Mr.Iseminger.So ordered.Dr.Johns voted
against the denial.
RZ-362 -David Collins,RU to BL
A motion was made by Mr.Salitsky to recommend to the County Commissioners
that this case be denied based on the findings of fact in the Staff
Recommendation.Seconded by Mr.Zombro.Mr.Salitsky and Mr.Zombro voted
aye,Mr.Iseminger,Ms.Acord,and Mr.Johns voted no.The motion failed.
Mr.Johns then moved to approve the application based on a change in the
character of the neighborhood based on construction of Eastern Boulevard.
Ms.Acord seconded.In a unanimous vote of aye,the Commission recommended
that the application be approved.
RZ-364 -The Martin Company Parcel 351,A to BG,Parcel 433,A to RS
A motion was made by Mr.Iseminger to recommend to the County Commissioners
that Parcel 351 be approved based on the testimony of the public hearing,
the findings of fact in the Staff Report and Analysis,and the Staff
Recommendation.Seconded by Mr.Zombro.So ordered.
A motion was made by Mr.Salitsky to recommend to the County Commissioners
that Parcel 433 be denied based on the evidence received from testimony at
the public hearing,the findings of fact in the Staff Report and Analysis,
and the Staff Recommendation.Seconded by Mr.Iseminger.So ordered.
RZ-365 -Text Amendment,Section 26.3 Right of Entry
A motion was made by Mr.Zombro to recommend to the County Commissioners
that the Text Amendment for Section 26.3 be approved as it was presented at
the public hearing.Seconded by Dr.Johns.So ordered.
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Rezoning Schedule:
Mr.Hawbaker stated that a letter was sent from John Urner to the County
Commissioners about the Wolfinger rezoning application wherein he asked that
the Board deny the applicant permission to refile for rezoning on the same
tract within one year.•Mr.Hawbaker stated the David Poole,the County's
Attorney,was of the opinion that so long as the County Commissioners did
not act on the rezoning application,the applicant can refile for the next
public hearing.Mr.Hawbaker presented the Commission with a rezoning fee
schedule of various counties as requested by the County Commissioners to
determine if raising the fee for a rezoning application would remedy the
withdraw/refiling problem.The Commission decided,considering the late
hour,that this is a matter that will need to be discussed at a later date.
At this time,Mr.Byers suggested that the Commission set up a date to
discuss the Brightwood Acres/Londontowne Connection.After a discussion,
the date of July 30,1987 at 1:30 PM was set to hold a workshop session.
ADJOURNMENT :
There being no further business,the meeting was adjourned at 12:00 PM.
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Washington County Planning Commission
Special Meeting
July 9,1987
Present were:Chairman,Jack B.Byers;Vice-Chairman,Donald E.Zombro;Ex-
Officio,Richard E.Roulette;Sidney Salitsky,Judith A.Acord,Executive
Director,Jack S.Hawbaker;and Malcolm Davis,of Davis,Renn and Shrader.
Absent were:Ray Johns and Bertrand Iseminger.
At a special meeting convened at 5:00 p.m.on July 9,1987,the Planning
Commission considered a revised entrance design on Pennsylvania Avenue for
the Sheetz Store located at the corner of u.S.11 and Maugans Avenue.
Mr.Davis explained to the Commission that further site development is at an
impasse because the State Highway Administration will not issue an entrance
permit for a right-in/right-out only design onto u.S.11.It is the State's
decision that a design prohibiting left turn movements from and onto
Pennsylvania Avenue will result in traffic stacking between the Maugans
Avenue entrance and the Pennsylvania Avenue/Maugans Avenue intersection.
Mr.Davis explained that he has pursued the State's position as far as Mr.
Kassoff,State Highway Administrator,who supports the decision of the
Traffic;Engineer in the Lavale Office.
On a motion by Mr.Zombro and seconded by Mr.Roulette,the Planning
Commission voted to approve the amended site plan,dated July 6,1987,with
the revised entrance onto U.S.11 as mandated by the State Highway
Administration.So ordered.
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WASHINGTON COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION
REGULAR MEETING -JULY 6,1987
The Washington County Planning Cormnission held its regular meeting on July
6,1987 at 7:00 PM in Court Room No.1 of the Court House.
Present were:Chairman,Jack B.Byers;Vice-Chairman,Donald E.Zombro;Ex-
Officio,Richard E.Roulette;Bertrand L.Iseminger,Judith A.Acord,Sidney
Salitsky,and Dr.Ray Johns.Staff:Executive Director,Jack S.Hawbaker;
Senior Planner,Stephen T.Goodrich;Associate Planner,Timothy A.Lung;
Associate Planner,Lisa A.Kelly;Parks Planner,William V.Stachoviak;
Deputy Director of Permits and Inspections,Paul Prodonovich,and Secretary,
Janet L.King.
CALL TO ORDER:
The meeting was called to order by the Chairman at 7:00 PM.
Brightwood Acres/Londontowne Section B Connection:
Mr.Hawbaker began by stating that he had been approached by citizens from
the Brightwood Acres neighborhood expressing their concern about current
construction in Section B of Londontowne and the proposed road connection
between Londontowne Section D of Brightwood Acres.He explained that
section A of Londontowne is off Landis and Day Roads,that future Section C
is to the east of Section B,that Section D is along Landis Road,and that
all sections were the subject of discussion between the County and City
Planning Cormnissions and the developer in 1982.Mr.Hawbaker stated that
the Planning Cormnission in January 1980 gave Mr.Sheedy,developer of
Londontowne,permission to make a future connection between Section B of
Londontowne and section D of Brightwood Acres.In the 1982 discussions
between the two Cormnissions and Mr.Sheedy,agreements were reached whereby
future development in Section C would be provided access to Mt.Aetna Road
via a road,the alignment of which is yet to be determined,possibly across
Ditto Farms Park land.Mr.Hawbaker stated that Mr.Sheedy recently met
with the County Commissioners and the representatives of Brightwood Acres to
discuss the concerns of the Brightwood Acres residents.A possible
compromise was discussed whereby lands would be exchanged between Mr.Sheedy
and the County with Mr.Sheedy acquiring a portion of the western end of the
park lands to construct a road and the County acquiring the northern part of
Section C plus some land in Section A.Mr.Hawbaker informed the Commission
that Section D of Brightwood Acres was recorded in 1970 and shows a portion
of land reserved for future development,all of which was subsequently
purchased by Mr.Sheedy for connecting Section B of Londontowne with Section
D of Brightwood Acres.
At this time,Attorney John Urner spoke for the residents of Brightwood
Acres and asked the Cormnission to reconsider and reverse the previous
approval to link Section B of Londontowne to Brightwood Acres because of the
adverse effect the new traffic would have on existing residences in
Brightwood Acres.
At this time,Attorney William Wantz spoke for Mr.Sheedy,the
developer of Londontowne,and said that Mr.Sheedy,in developing the
various sections of Londontowne,intends that they complement existing
development in Brightwood Acres.He went on to say that the recorded plat
for Brightwood Acres indicates that there was always intended for an access
road to be constructed between Maplewood Drive and the remaining lands to
the east.He stated that the owners in Brightwood Acres knew that at some
point in the future these lands would be developed.Mr.Wantz stated that
Mr.Sheedy is proposing to develop single-family homes on this parcel
similar to the type of residential development in Brightwood Acres with only
42 homes in the western portion of Section B on lots ranging from 13,000
square feet to 50,000 square feet.Only this portion of Section B is to
have access to Maplewood Drive with the remaining part of Section B having
access across either Section B or a new road out to Mt.Aetna Road.The
road in Section B is to be designed so as to prevent the eastern portion
from having access onto Maplewood Drive.Mr.Byers stated that the Planning
Cormnission will not be making a final decision at this time but that it will
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decide in the near future and will respond to the Brightwood Acres
residents.He said that any further comments can be made in writing within
the next week.
MINUTES:
There were some changes to the minutes of the June 1 regular meeting.The
minutes should have said that the motion to grant the Gretchen Van Hyning
variance was unanimously approved prior to it being tabled.Under the South
County Study,the word of historic sites should be changed to and historic
sites.Under the Boonsboro Water and Sewer Plan,the motion to approve the
amendment was unanimously carried.
Mr.Zombro made a motion to approve the minutes of the June meeting as
corrected,seconded by Mr.Iseminger.So ordered.
Mr.Iseminger made a motion to approve the minutes of the Sheetz Store,
seconded by Mr.Salitsky.So ordered.
Mr.Zombro made a motion to approve the minutes of the Special Meeting held
on June ,26,seconded by Mr.Iseminger.So ordered •
UNFINISHED BUSINESS:
Gretchen Van Hyning Variance:
Mr.Hawbaker stated that the variance for Gretchen Van Hyning was tabled at
last month's meeting due to the rezoning hearing on June 8,1987.After a
brief review of the variance request by Mr.Lung,Mr.Zombro made a motion
to table the variance because Ms.Van Hyning was not in attendance to
present her request.The motion was seconded by Mr.Salitsky.So ordered.
NEW BUSINESS:
Variances:
Robert J.Johnson:
Mr.Lung presented the variance for Robert Johnson who is requesting that
the Commission release him from the S-year condition of the Subdivision
Ordinance attached to land conveyed to an immediate family member without
public road frontage.The subject site is located on the south side of U.S.
40 near the intersection of Spickler Road.Mr.Johnson is proposing to
convey the existing lot to someone not a family member within the S-year
period for the subdivision approved by the Commission in October 1984.This
parcel was conveyed by Reed Johnson to his grandson,Robert Johnson.Robert
Johnson's request is based on financial difficulties;two and 2/3 years have
passed since the subdivision was approved.The property has access to Route
40 via a right-of-way owned by James Johnson who does not Object to the
selling of this parcel.There are currently four residences using this
existing right-of-way.Mr.Iseminger made a motion to approve the variance
based on a hardship that would result from strict compliance to the
Ordinance,seconded by Mr.Roulette.So ordered.
Marlin Durbin:
Mr.Goodrich presented the variance for Marlin Durbin.The subject site is
located on the south side of MD Route 68 east of College Road.The variance
is being requested from the Highway Plan which requires 500 feet of
separation between access points.Mr.Durbin is proposing to create a new
access without the required separation.The County Engineer has not
reviewed the variance because of the late submittal and the fact that he has
no authority on a state road.State Highway Administration stated that site
distance is marginal;verbal approval has been received.The staff is
recommending disapproval because site distance is marginal and the access
can be provided more safely from the existing lane on the remaining lands.
Mr.Durbin stated that he feels his hardship is that if he would move the
access,it would be where the septic system is proposed.Mr.Zombro made a
motion to approve the variance based on a hardship that would result from
strict compliance to the Ordinance,seconded by Ms.Acord.So ordered.
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Kathy Oberosler:
Mr.Goodrich presented the variance for Kathy Oberosler.The subject site
is located on the northwest side of Robinwood Drive.The variance is being
requested from the Highway Plan which requires 300 feet of separation
between access points on a Major Collector roadway.Ms.Oberosler is
proposing to create a new access point with less than the required
separation,205 feet to the south and 45 feet to the north.Mr.Goodrich
stated that site distance is good in both directions.The County Engineer
has had no comments,but approval is subject to his review of a plat.Mr.
Zombro made a motion to approve the variance based on a hardship that would
result from strict compliance to the Ordinance and also based on the County
Engineer's approval,seconded by Ms.Acord.So ordered.
Denald Thomas:
Miss Kelly presented the variance for Donald Thomas.The SUbject site is
located along the southside of MD Route 68,.8 miles west of Alternate Route
40.The variance is being requested from Section 405.2(a)of the
Subdivision Ordinance which states that the Highway Plan requires a minimum
distance of 500 feet between access points on a minor collector roadway.
Mr.Thomas is proposing to create one entrance that will serve four
residential lots.This driveway will be located approximately 250 feet east
of an existing entrance which serves the remaining lands of Mr.Thomas.
State Highway Administration has no objection to the four entrances coming
off the existing driveway.Ms.Acord made a motion to approve the variance
based on a hardship that would result from strict compliance to the
Ordinance,seconded by Dr.Johns.So ordered.
w.Louis Plummer,Jr.:
Miss Kelly presented the variance for w.Louis Plummer,Jr.The subject
site is located on the southside of East Oak Ridge Drive,.2 miles west of
Funkstown.The variance is being requested from Section 405.2(a)of the
Subdivision Ordinance which states that the Highway Plan requires a minimum
distance of 300 feet between access points on a major collector roadway.
Mr.Plummer is proposing to create an entrance for commercial purposes
within 300 feet of an existing entrance by subdividing a 1.8 acre lot from
his 25 acre tract.Access to the commercial site will be provided by an
entrance off of East Oak Ridge Drive.The proposed entrance location is
approximately 90 +feet west of an existing residential driveway,210 feet
closer than the required amount.The County Engineer has no problem with
the variance,but no written approval has yet been received.Mr.Roulette
made a motion to approve the variance based on a hardship that would result
from strict compliance to the Ordinance and also based on County Engineer's
approval,seconded by Mr.Iseminger.So ordered.
Subdivisions:
Brightwood Acres,Lot 4:
Miss Kelly presented the preliminary/final plat and site plan for Brightwood
Acres,Lot 4,located on the south side of East Oak Ridge Drive.It is the
same site that was the subject of the above requested variance.The
proposed building site has a current zoning of Highway Interchange.There
are no existing structures on the site and it is currently covered with
trees and brush.A 30 x 60 foot building will be constructed to be used as
a beauty parlor.There will be 13 parking spaces in the front portion of
the site.An individual well and septic system will serve the site.The
proposed entrance will be off Oak Ridge Drive.Mr.Roulette made a motion
to approve the preliminary/final plat and site plan,seconded by Ms.Acord.
So ordered.
Village Green:
Mr.Lung presented the preliminary/final plat and site plan for Village
Green,a small shopping center to be located on a .92 acre lot in the
northeast quadrant of Longmeadow Road and Leitersburg Pike.The applicant
is proposing to construct four retail shops with area of 8,000 square feet.
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There will be a single entrance/exit onto Longmeadow Road.The Planning
Staff met with the developer and theirconsultant on June 4 and at that time
indicated the changes necessary to bring the Site Plan into compliance with
the standards of the Zoning Ordinance.The revised Site Plan,Mr.Lung
informed the Commission,was received today at 3:30,and there has not been
time for review to determine if it contains the necessary corrections.One
of the principal concerns relayed by the Staff to the consultant and
developer was the need for additional parking spaces.The lack of adequate
parking was a concern of both the Planning Staff,the Permits and
Inspections Office and the County Engineer.The revised plan must be now be
resubmitted to all agencies.Mr.Shrader stated that a revision was made to
the plan to add additional parking spaces.Approval has been received from
the State Highway Administration and the County Engineer on the subdivision
plat.The County Engineer has requested revisions to the site plan to add
'no parking'signs along Longmeadow Road.The Health Department has
requested a revision to the septic area.Mr.Roulette made a motion to
approve the preliminary/final plat and site plan upon the receipt of all
agency approvals,seconded by Mr.Zombro.So ordered.
James Pasike,Jr.:
Miss Kelly presented the preliminary/final plat for James Pasike.The
property is located on the north side of Woburn Road.The subject site is
zoned agriculture.Mr.Pas ike is proposing to create 4 residential lots
with an area of between 1 to 9 acres.Each lot will have individual well
and septic systems.All agency approvals have been received.Mr.Iseminger
made a motion to approve the preliminary/final plat,seconded by Dr.Johns.
So ordered.
Mike and Cathy Jordon:
Mr.Lung presented the preliminary/final plat for Mike and Cathy Jordon for
a residential subdivision to be located on the south side of Dellinger Road
east of Neck Road.Lots 1 and 2 will consist of 4 acres;lot 3,6.02 acres;
and lot 4,7.05 acres.Lots 2,3,and 4 will have access by 3,25 foot
panhandles,lot 1 will have 387 feet of frontage on Dellinger Road.Each
lot will have its own well and septic system.Approvals have been received
from the County Engineer and the Health Department.Dr.Johns made a motion
to approve the preliminary/final plat,seconded by Mr.Salitsky.So
ordered.
John R.Thomas Service Garage:
Mr.Lung presented the preliminary plat and site plan for John R.Thomas
Service Garage,which is located east of Antietam Drive.The subject site
is zoned IG.Mr.Thomas is proposing to construct a 40 x 100 foot building
with gravel parking area to be used for a truck service garage.Access to
the site is via an existing private gravel road which adjoins a paved
private road to 1.C. C.Cement Company.The Planning Commission granted a
variance to create this lot without public road frontage at its June 1,1987
meeting.The septic locations are unacceptable to the Health Department due
to the presence of rock,and new septic location and perc tests were
requested.The Washington County Soil Conservation District and County
Engineer approvals have been received.Comments were received from the
Permits Office stating that additional parking spaces need to be provided,a
landscape plan needs to be submitted,and a note should be placed on the
plat that no junk and/or salvage materials shall be stored on the premises.
The staff suggested that the Planning Commission grant approval based on
receipt of the revised plat and all agency approvals.Mr.Zombro made a
motion to grant the staff authority to approve under those conditions,
seconded by Ms.Acord.So ordered.
Site Plans:
D.L.George and Sons:
Miss Kelly presented the site plan for D.L.George and Sons which is
located at the end of Mason-Dixon Lane and south of State Line Road.She
stated that the site plan was first approved by the Planning Commission in
January,1986.This is a revised site plan which is similar to the first;
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however,the parking area has been doubled in size.The proposed land use
of this subject site will be truck parking area and a dispatch office.Mr.
Prodonovich informed the Commission that the site work has already be
accomplished by the owner.Ms.Acord made a motion to approve the site
plan,seconded by Dr.Johns.So ordered.
OTHER BUSINESS:
'Residential Subdivision Utility Boxes:
The review of utility boxes on residential lots in subdivisions resulted
from the matter being referred by Commissioner Bowers to the Planning
Commission because of concerns expressed by residents in the Potomac Heights
subdivsion.Mr.Hawbaker told the Commission that he and Commissioner
Bowers had toured a number of subdivisions recently with representatives
from Potomac Edison in order to assess the visual impact that utility boxes
may have in those subdivisions.The representatives from the public
utilities were Nancy Neff and Paul Stiller from Potomac Edison,Robert
Shipley from C &P Telephone,and Mr.Callahan from Antietam Cable.Miss
Neff and Mr.Stiller explained to the Commission the matter in which the
utilities are regulated by the Public Service Commission in the placement of
utility boxes,which for the most part house transformers that formerly
would have been on utility poles.They informed the Commission that the
placement of these transformers below ground is impractical because of
inadequate access for repair as well as moisture problems.The utility
representatives did conceed that more care should be exercised by the land
developer in the compaction of soil before the placement of utility boxes.
The Potomac Edison representatives provided the commission with recommended
specifications for the planting of landscaping around these boxes.After a
brief discussion,the Commission agreed by concensus that since the
placement of these utility boxes on residential lots constitutes an
essential service,no further action is needed on the part of the
Commission.The Commission instructed the Executive Director to inform the
Board of County Commissioners of its action in this matter.
South County Study Status Report:
Mr.Larry Duket,from the Department of State Planning informed the Planning
Commission of the status of the South County study.He stated the contract
has been signed by the Department of State Planning and the County.The
work programs for the consultant's study have been prepared in draft form.
He stated that the Department has reviewed the Antietam Plan for the
Battlefield buffers,and they have acquired aerial photos for the study
area.
Preliminary Consultation:
Oliver Britner:
The preliminary consultation for Oliver Britner was presented to the
Planning Commission for its information only with nothing to be added by the
staff.
Lobo Acres:
The preliminary consultation for Lobo Acres was presented to the Planning
Commission for its information only with nothing to be added by the staff.
Windsor Farms:
Mr.Lung informed the Commission that the proposed 71 lot residential
subdivision called Windsor Farms is not in conformance with the
Comprehensive Plan due to its location outside of the Growth Area on Prime
Agricultural land,within non-tidal wetlands and near the headwaters of a
class III natural trout stream.The Town of Bocnsboro is concerned with the
development because it would not be able to serve the proposed development
with pUblic facilities;if the septic systems fail and the wells go bad.
Mr.Hawbaker informed the Commission that the development of 71 residential
lots in one subdivision in the rural area of the County is not consistent
with the Comprehensive Plan because of the resulting loss of agricultural
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land,the problems resulting to groundwater from septic systems,and the
future likelihocd that subdivisions of this nature will create a demand for
costly infrastructure.He reminded the Commission that it removed from the
annual work program in January,1987 those elements of the Plan intended to
address rural development.By consensus,the Commission agreed that
continued development of this sort may impose unwarranted problems for the
County.The Commission instructed Mr.Hawbaker to place the elements of the
Plan again on the work program for the next calendar year.
Fieldstone Acres:
Mr.Lung reminded the Commission of the Text Amendment recently approved to
Zoning Ordinance eliminating the 600 foot cul-de-sac length.He stated that
on the preliminary consultation for Fieldstone Acres,the developer is
proposing a 1,200 foot cul-de-sac and asking for the Planning Commission's
approval.Mr.Lung stated that the County Engineer has no problem with the
length of the cul-de-sac,and he has had no response to date from the
affected fire department.By concensus,the Planning Commission sees no
problem with the length of the proposed cul-de-sac.
Water and Sewer Plan Status:
Mr.Hawbaker informed the Commission that the State Health Department has
recently approved the updated Water and Sewerage Plan.No action was
required by the Commission.
Parks Plan Status:
Mr.Stachoviak informed the Commission that public review meetings were held
on the Parks Plan without a great deal of public response.He stated that a
public hearing will be held in the future by the County Commissioners at one
of their regular meetings.The draft version of the Parks Plan is still in
work and is expected to be completed shortly for distribution to all
interested parties prior to the public hearing.
Site,Plan Review:
Mr.Hawbaker stated that the staff has met with Paul Prodonovich to discuss
the site plan review concept and that site plans will now be submitted to
the Permit Office to be reviewed within one day of the application.If Mr.
Prodonovich's workload does not permit,he will send a copy of the site
plan to the Planning Office to be reviewed by the staff,after which a
response will be forwarded back to the Permit Office.This will provide the
Permit Office with the necessary information for processing the site plan to
the reviewing agencies or for returning it to the consultant for any
necessary revisions.
Subdivision Roads -Roger Wolf:
Mr.Hawbaker stated that the Wolfs asked the County Commissioners to upgrade
the private section of Brown road leading back to their subdivision to
County standards.He stated that the County Commissioners informed the
Wolfs that it is up to the developer to build the road and then convey it to
the County for maintenance purposes.The Planning Commission is
recommending that the County Commissioners abide by the adopted policies
concerning private roads in the County and disallow the request from the
Wolfs for financing road construction that would benefit a private
developer.In making this recommendation,the Commission affirms the
position taken by the Board in its letter to the Wolfs of 1986.
Highway Interchange Study:
Mr.Hawbaker informed the Commispion that he now has a revised concept for
the Highway Interchange district that will retain the desired flexibility
while eliminating some of the conflict characteristic of the present HI
structure.Another meeting with the Economic Development Commission is now
in order.After a brief discussion,the dates July 29 or July 30,1987 were
decided on to meet with EOC.Mr.Hawbaker said he would arrange for a date
and notify both Commissions by memo.
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COMMUNICl<rIONS:
Letter from Halfway Volunteer Fire Company:
Mr.Hawbaker stated that he received a letter from Douglas DeHaven,
Assistant Chief of Halfway Volunteer Fire Company who stated that the fire
company is concerned with development along Hump Road and with its ability
to provide adequate fire protection to these businesses.After a brief
discussion,Mr.Iseminger made a motion to have the Executive Director write
a letter to the County Commissioners expressing the Commission's agreement
with the fire company regarding this matter.He suggested enclosing a copy
of the letter from Mr.DeHaven.Dr.Johns seconded the motion.So ordered.
Rezoning Cases from June 8,1987 Public Hearing:
RZ-357 -R.Martin Palmer,Jr.,HP-BL to HP-A
A motion was made by Mr.Zombro to recommend to the County Commissioners
that this case be denyed based on the testimony of the public hearing and
the findings of fact in the Staff Report and Analysis and the Staff
Recommendation.Dr.Johns seconded.So ordered.
RZ-360 -Board of County Commissioners,A to IG
A motion was made by Dr.Johns to recommend to the County Commissioners that
this case be approved based on the testimony at the public hearing and the
findings of fact in the Staff Report and Analysis and the Staff
Recommendation.Seconded by Mr.Salitsky.So ordered.
RZ-361 -Kenneth Ritter,RR to BL
A motion was made by Mr.Salitsky to recommend to the County Commissioners
that this case be denied based on the testimony of the public hearing and
the findings of fact in the Staff Report and Analysis and the Staff
Recommendation.Seconded by Mr.Iseminger.So ordered.Dr.Johns voted
against the denial.
RZ-362 -David Collins,RU to BL
A motion was made by Mr.Salitsky to recommend to the County Commissioners
that this case be denied based on the findings of fact in the Staff
Recommendation.Seconded by Mr.Zombro.Mr.Salitsky and Mr.Zombro voted
aye,Mr.Iseminger,Ms.Acord,and Mr.Johns voted no.The motion failed.
Mr.Johns then moved to approve the application based on a change in the
character of the neighborhood based on construction of Eastern Boulevard.
Ms.Acord seconded.In a unanimous vote of aye,the Commission recommended
that the application be approved.
RZ-364 -The Martin Company Parcel 351,A to BG;Parcel 433,A to RS
A motion was made by Mr.Iseminger to recommend to the County commissioners
that Parcel 351 be approved based on the testimony of the public hearing,
the findings of fact in the Staff Report and Analysis,and the Staff
Recommendation.Seconded by Mr.Zombro.So ordered.
A motion was made by Mr.Salitsky to recommend to the County Commissioners
that Parcel 433 be denied based on the evidence received from testimony at
the public hearing,the findings of fact in the Staff Report and Analysis,
and the Staff Recommendation.Seconded by Mr.Iseminger.So ordered.
RZ-365 -Text Amendment,Section 26.3 Right of Entry
A motion was made by Mr.Zombro to recommend to the County Commissioners
that the Text Amendment for Section 26.3 be approved as it was presented at
the public hearing.Seconded by Dr.Johns.So ordered.
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Rezoning Schedule:
Mr.Hawbaker stated that a letter was sent from John Urner to the County
Commissioners about the Wolfinger rezoning application wherein he asked that
the Board deny the applicant permission to refile for rezoning on the same
tract within one year.•Mr.Hawbaker stated the David Poole,the County's
Attorney,was of the opinion that so long as the County Commissioners did
not act on the rezoning application,the applicant can refile for the next
public hearing.Mr.Hawbaker presented the Commission with a rezoning fee
schedule of various counties as requested by the County Commissioners to
determine if raising the fee for a rezoning application would remedy the
withdraw/refiling problem.The Commission decided,considering the late
hour,that this is a matter that will need to be discussed at a later date.
At this time,Mr.Byers suggested that the Commission set up a date to
discuss the Brightwood Acres/Londontowne Connection.After a discussion,
the date of July 30,1987 at 1:30 PM was set to hold a workshop session.
ADJOURNMENT:
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~/.<Jack B.'Byers,QI1ciirman
There being no further business,the meeting was adjourned at 12:00 PM.~
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WASHINGTON COUNTY PlANNING COMMISSION
REGULAR MEETING -August 3,1987
The Washington County Planning Commission held its regular meeting on August
3,1987 at 7:00 PM in the second flaer conference raem of the County Office
Building.
Present were:Chairman,Jack B.Byers;Vice-Chairman,Donald E.Zombro;Ex-
Officio,Richard E.Roulette;Bertrand L.Iseminger,Judith A.Acord,Sidney
Salitsky,and Dr.Ray Johns.Staff:Executive Director,Jack S.Hawbaker;
Senior Planner,Stephen T.Goodrich,Associate Planner,Timothy A.Lung,
Associate Planner,Lisa A.Kelly,Deputy Director of Permits and Inspections
Paul Prodonvich,and Secretary,Janet L.King.
CALL TO ORDER:
The meeting was called to order by the Chairman at 7:00 PM.
MINUTES:
A correction was made to the minutes of the previous meeting on rezoning
case RZ-362 for David Collins.The minutes should read that Mr.Salitsky
made the motion to deny this rezoning case with a second by Mr.Iseminger.
The remaining Planning Commission members disapproved of the motion.Dr.
Johns then moved to approve the rezoning case,and the matter was seconded
by Mr.Zombro.
In the section under utility boxes,it should read "The utility
representatives did conceed that more care should be exercised by the
utility contractor in the compaction of soil before the placement of utility
boxes",not the land developer.
On a motion made by Mr.Zombro and seconded by Dr.Johns,the mintues of the
July regular meeting were approved as corrected.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS:
Gretchen Van Hyning Variance:
Mr.Hawbaker stated that this variance was initially reviewed at the June
meeting and was tabled at the July meeting due to the absence of Ms.Van
Hyning.Mr.Roulette made a motion to bring the variance back on the table,
seconded by Ms.Acord.After a brief review of the variance request by Mr.
Lung,Dr.Johns made a motion to grant the variance based on a hardship that
would result from strict compliance to the Ordinance,seconded by Mr.
Zombro.So ordered.
Brightwood Acres:
This matter is a carryover from the July meeting when citizens of Brightwood
Acres protested the street connection between Section D of that subdivision
and Section B of Londontowne.Following the July meeting,the County
Attorney issued an opinion stating that the developer had acquired certain
vested rights when he bought the portion of Section D that was designated on
the recorded plat for future development.A workshop meeting was also held
by the Commission on July 30 to discuss this matter.Mr.Byers noted the
letter from the County Attorney and said that in his opinion the Planning
Commission cannot rescind the action that was taken in 1980.Ms.Acord then
made a motion not to reconsider the Commission's action of January 1980 when
it granted Mr.Sheedy the right to connect Section B of Londontowne with
Section D of Brightwood Acres.The motion was seconded by Mr.Salitsky.So
ordered.
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NEW BUSINESS:
Variances:
Teresa Bousley:
Mr.Lung presented the variance for Teresa Bousley.The variance is being
requested to amend the statement from a previously recorded plat stating
that the property will not be conveyed to anyone not a member of the
immediate family for a period of five years.The subject site is located on
the south side of MD Route 63 off of Lake Drive.Mr.Lung stated that Ms.
Bousley is ready to build on the site but is unable to obtain a loan from
the bank due to the 5 year conveyance clause on the plat.After a brief
discussion,Mr.Roulette made a motion to grant the variance based on a
hardship which would result from strict compliance to the Ordinance and also
by adding the following statement to the plat "EXCEPT FOR ANY CONVEYANCE
NEEDED 10 SATISFY A LENDING INSTITUTION IN CASE OF DEFAULT ON A WAN",
seconded by Mr.Iseminger.So ordered.
Subdivisions:
Lobo Acres:
Miss Kelly presented the preliminary and final plat for Lobo Acres located
on the north side of Spade Road.The developer proposes to create 11
residential lots on a 138 acre parcel with lots ranging in size from 2 to 33
acres.Each lot will have individual wells and septic systems.All agency
approvals have been received except for the Health Department where verbal
approval was received.Dr.Johns made a motion to approve the subdivision
plat,seconded by Mr.Salitsky.So ordered.
Wayne Weber:
Mr.Lung presented the simplified plat for Wayne Weber and the site plan for
Hub Labels at the same time because Mr.Weber's land is to be acquired by
the owner of Hub Labels,Mr.Dahbura,who intends to expand his printing
facilities.The land acquisition is necessary to satisfy the setback
requirements in the HI district.The area to be conveyed is .22 acres,and
the expansion of Hub Labels will consist of the construction of a 100'x
ISO'addition to the rear of the existing building.Ten parking spaces will
be added.Screening with white pines will be used along the rear property
line.A 75'buffer along the rear property line will still be needed,and a
50'buffer on the east is needed to comply with the HI standards.Mr.
Roulette made a motion to approve the simplified plat,seconded by Dr.
Johns.Mr.Roulette also made a motion to approve the site plan as
submi t ted,seconded by Mr.Salitsky •So ordered.
Garden Spot:
Mr.Lung presented the preliminary and final plat of Section F and the
preliminary plat of Section G for Garden Spot located on the south side of
Salem Road.Section F will consist of 18 residential lots and the extension
of Daisy Drive.Section G will consist of 5 residential lots and the
extension of Bluebell Drive.Public water and sewer will be available for
both sections.The County Engineer has approved the subdivision.Verbal
approval has been received from the Hagerstown Water Department.The
Sanitary District has requested minor revisions and is awaiting approval of
the expansion of the subdistrict boundary by the City of Hagerstown.The
Health Department will need approvals from the Water Department and the
Sanitary District before granting its approval •.The consultant is
requesting that the staff be granted the authority to approve the
subdivision pending receipt of agency approvals.Dr.Johns made a motion to
approve Section F;Preliminary and Final,seconded by Mr.Zombro and Mr.
Roulette made a motion to approve Section G;Preliminary,seconded by Mr.
Zombro,both pending agency approvals.So ordered.
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Jerry Massey:
Miss Kelly presented the resubdivision for Jerry Massey,lots 1 and 2,
located at the intersection of Massey Boulevard,Railway Lane and Underpass
Way.Mr.Massey is proposing to subdivide a 10 acre parcel into 2 lots.
Lot 1 will consist of 6 acres and will be used for a truck service area.
Lot 2 consists of 4 acres and will be used for the new Lincoln-Mercury
dealership.Public water and sewer are available.All agency approvals
have been received.Mr.Zombro made a motion to approve the resudivision,
seconded by Dr.Johns.So ordered.
Brightwood Acres East:
Mr.Goodrich presented the preliminary plat for a 55-lot addition to the
residential subdivison of Brightwood Acres East,located north of Section A
on the north side of Mt.Aetna Road.Section B consists of 29 acres.There
is 55 acres remaining to the east.Public water and sewer will be
provided.The development will be on a low pressure system using grinder
pumps.The proposed roads will be designed to County standards and then
dedicated to the County.The County Engineer requested revisions of the
stonnwater management for Section B.Approvals have been received from the
Health Department,Hagerstown Water Department and Water Pollution Control.
Mr.Salitsky made a motion to approve the preliminary plat based on receipt
of approval from the County Engineer,seconded by Dr.Johns.So ordered.
Preliminary Consultations:
Terrace Hills:
Mr.Lung presented the preliminary consultation for Terrace Hills to the
Planning Commission.He noted that the consultation was held on July 23,
1987.The SUbject site is located north of Hagerstown off Cathedral Avenue.
He stated that there are 16 lots being proposed for Section Band 6 lots
proposed for Section C.Mr.Lung stated that the written summary of the
consultation should be completed by the September meeting.
Robert Beck:
Mr.Goodrich presented the preliminary consultation for Robert Beck.He
noted that this is the first cluster subdivision being proposed for
Washington County.He stated that in a cluster subdivision,the dwelling
units can be located on smaller lots than allowed in the zoning district
with the remaining lands reserved as open space.This development consists
of 56 units on 26 acres,with an average lot size of 9,700 square feet.
There will be 13 acres remaining for open space and the proposed on-site
septic system.Mr.Goodrich stated that the Zoning Ordinance does not
designate setbacks for a cluster subdivision.He stated that the developer
is proposing the setbacks from the 'RS'district of 25'in the front,40'in
the rear,and 8'for the side yard.He noted that the Zoning Ordinance
states that the Planning Commisison may authorize this type of development
and also approve the setbacks proposed or modify them as appropriate for the
vicinity.
At this time,Mr.Hamilton,an adjacent property owner said that he is
concerned with the water and septic systems in the area.He noted that this
area has had problems with the septic systems in the past and feels that
this development will add to the problem.Mr.Carl Rosenberry,developer of
LuRose Estates,stated that he does not want a road constructed to connect
his development with the proposed cluster subdivision.He stated that he
gave Mr.Beck 50'of his property with the understanding that there would
not be a road constructed.The County Engineer stated in his comments that
the developer will be required to dedicate 25'wedges or turning flares in
addition to the 50'right-of-way required for a new County road.After a
brief discussion,Mr.Zombro made a motion to table the matter until the
Commission can make a visit to the site.The motion was seconded by Mr.
Salitsky •So ordered.
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Sharrett Auto Mall:
Mr.Goodrich presented the preliminary consultation for Sharrett Auto Mall
located on Route 40 along Beaver Creek Road south of 1-70.He stated that
there is concern from the County Engineer and the State Highway
Administration about access to the site.There were three suggestions
presented during the consultation:1.)use the Baptist Temple entrance to
the back of the site,2.)a crossover from Route 40 to the site,or 3.)use
of the existing road network with improvements.He noted that the site is
zoned HI,and a 75'buffer will be required due to the adjacent house and
church.He stated that the proposed parking is located within the 75'
buffer yard.Mr.Goodrich asked the Planning Commission if there is a need
for an additional buffer.By concensus,the Planning Commission will not
require more than the 75'buffers.
Hagerstown Travelers Plaza:
Mr.Goodrich presented the preliminary consultation for Hagerstown Travelers
Plaza.He noted that the subject site is zoned HI and is located along
Route 144,east of 1-81 and south of Route 40.There is a proposal to break
the access controls on Route 40 to construct a new public road through the
site and connect to Route 144.Public water and sewer will be available.
At this time,Mr.Hoover,a representative for the adjacent neighborhood,
stated that he and his neighbors are opposed to the truck stop because it
will create greater traffic problems on Route 40.He stated that there will
be water pollution due to the carbon monoxide fumes form the trucks and
informed the Commission that there is a petition being circulated opposing
the truck stop.By concensus,the Planning Commission decided to visit this
site during a future field trip.
Hager Hull:
The preliminary consultation for Hager Hull was presented to the Planning
Commission for its information with no further comments to be added by the
staff.No action was taken by the Planning Commission.
Floyd R.Kline:
Mr.Lung presented the preliminary consultation for the Floyd Kline Planned
Unit Development.He noted that the application for PUD rezoning was
withdrawn prior to the June hearing to allow the developer to workout
problems concerning the access to Route 11 and the sewerage allocation.No
action was taken by the Commission.
OTHER BUSINESS:
Xerxes Corporation:
Mr.Hawbaker stated that the Planning Commission gave the staff the
authority to approve the plan for Xerxes with the understanding that if
there are any complications it will come back to the Planning Commission for
its review and approval.Because of a problem with the soil on the original
site,the building will now need to be moved 100 feet,and a revised site
plan will be submitted by the consultant.Mr.Papa requested that the
Commission grant the staff authority to approve the revised site plan as it
did with the first site plan in March.Mr.Salitsky made a motion to grant
staff approval,seconded by Ms.Acord.So ordered.
COMMUNICATIONS:
Letter from Constance Lieder:
Mr.Hawbaker brought to the attention of the Commission the letter from
Secretary Lieder announcing her intentions to have the Maryland State
Planning Commission and the Department of State Planning become more
involved in local planning matters.The Commission so noted the
information.
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Subdivisions:
Pleasant View Inn:
Mr.Lung presented a preliminary and final subdivision plat and variance
request for Pleasant View Inn located along Route 11 north of Maugans
Avenue.He noted that the variance is being requested from the Highway Plan
which requires a right-of-way dedication 50 feet from centerline.The owner
is requesting a waiver of the right-of-way dedication due to existing
structures within the right-of-way.The site contains an existing two
story,four unit apartment and a restaurant.The applicant is proposing to
subdivide the restaurant from the apartment to create two lots.A portion
of the apartment building and restaurant would infringe on the dedicated
right-of-way.Verbal approval has been received from State Highway
Administration on the subdivision plat,as well as written approval from the
County Engineer and Sanitary District.Health Department approval is still
outstanding.Mr.Roulette made a motion to grant the variance based on a
hardship which would result from strict compliance to the ordinance,
seconded by Mr.Zcmbro.Dr.Johns made a motion to approve the subdivision
plat pending receipt of agency approvals,seconded by Mr.Roulette.So
ordered.
Donald Thomas:
Miss Kelly presented the preliminary and final plat for Donald Thomas,lots
1 through 4.The site is located on the south side of Route 68,1 mile west
of ROl.lte 40 in Boonsboro.The applicant is proposing to subdivide 11 acres
from his 153 acres tract.Proposed lot size will range from 1 to 7 acres.
All residential lots will be served by private wells and septic systems and
will share a common entrance/exit off of MD Route 68.Required agency
approvals have been received except for the State Highway Administration.
Mr.Zombro made a motion to approve the plat contingent on State Highway
Administration approval,seconded by Ms.Acord.So orderded.
OTHER BUSINESS:
Rezoning Text Amendment -RZ-367 HP District:
Mr.Goodrich noted that a public hearing was held by the County
Commissioners on July 28,1987 to consider Text Amendment to Article 20 of
the Zoning Ordinance.By concensus,it was decided that this matter will be
considered at the September meeting.
Water and Sewer Plan Amendment for Sandy Hook:
Mr.Goodrich stated that a proposed amendment to the Washington County Water
and Sewer Plan was received from the Sanitary District proposing a public
water and sewer system for the Sandy Hook area.He noted that amendments to
the Plan come before the Planning Commission before recommendations are
submitted to the County Commissioners.After a brief discussion,Ms.Acord
made a motion to recommend to the County Commissioners aproval of the
amendment to the Water and Sewer Plan to include the Sandy Hook area,
seconded by Mr.Iseminger.So ordered.
Smithsburg Town Growth Area --Doug Bachtell Development:
Mr.Goodrich stated that the Smithsburg Planning Commission forwarded a plan
for the residential development proposed by Doug Bachtell.The site is
located on Cave Hill Road and Main Street in Smithsburg.The development
will consist of 370 dwelling units on 200 acres.There will be one access
to the site via the Smithsburg-Leitersburg Road.Mr.Goodrich noted that in
the Smithsburg Town Growth Area,the County and the Town of Smithsburg work
together to review and approve the plans.After a brief discussion,the
Planning Commission by concensus recommended that the plan be sent to the
appropriate reviewing agencies.
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Land Preservation and Recreation Plan:
Mr.Hawbaker informed the Planning Commission that the Land Preservation and
Recreation Plan is scheduled for public hearing with the County
Commissioners on August 11.The Plan has had the benefit of review in three
public review meetings attended by members of the Parks Board,and that no
adverse comments were received from those meetings.Following the ten-day
period after the public hearing,the Plan will then be adopted by the
Commissioners and forwarded to the Department of State Planning and the
Department of Natural Resources.
Rezoning Applications:
Mr.Hawbaker stated that the County Commissioners asked the Planning
Commission to review the present rezoning fee schedule.Mr.Roulette said
that the Commissioners suggested that raising the fees may be one method of
dealing with the resubmittal of cases withdrawn.Mr.Hawbaker suggested
that the best way to deal with the matter is for the County Commissioners to
deny requests for withdrawal once the pUblic hearing has been held or else
require the applicant to wait the full twelve months before refiling.After
a discussion,by concensus the Planning Commission asked the Executive
Director to come up with alternative measures for the refiling procedure.
South County Study:
Mr.Hawbaker stated that a letter was received from Larry Duket from the
Department of State Planning along with a revised products list.After a
brief discussion,the proposed completion dates were acceptable to the
Commission.
Junk Yard Status:
Mr.Prodonovich stated that the Planning Commission approved the screening
for the Lewis Miller junk yard on Reid Road.He stated that Mr.Miller has
pub up an 8 foot high metal and wood fence without a permit.Mr.
Prodonovich noted that he has contacted Mr.Miller to obtain a permit.
After several trys,Mr.Prodonovich stated that he filled out the permit
himself to be able to complete the file.No action was taken by the
Commission.
ADJOURNMENT:
381
There being no further business,the meeti~g.~as a~ourned ",t 11:00/QJ~4
.7Jack B.Byers';airman
PM.
382 WASHINGTON COUNTY PlANNING COMMISSION
REGULAR MEETING -SEPTEMBER 14,1987
The Washington County Planning Commission held its regular meeting on
September 14,1987 at 7:00 PM in Court Room No.1,Court House,Hagerstown.
Present were,Chairman,Jack B.Byers;Vice-Chairman,Donald E.Zombro;Ex-
Officio,Richard E.Roulette;Bertrand L.Iseminger,Judith A.Acord and Dr.
Ray Johns.Staff:Executive Director,Jack S.Hawbaker;Senior Planner,
Stephen T.Goodrich,Associate Planner,Timothy A.Lung,Associate Planner,
Lisa A.Kelly,Parks Planner,William V.Stachoviak,Deputy Director of
Permits and Inspections,Paul Prodonovich,and Secretary,Janet L.King.
Absent was Sidney Salitsky.
CALL TO ORDER:
The meeting was called to order by the Chairman at 7:00 PM.
MINUTES:
Mr.Zombro pointed out an omission in the August 3 minutes concerning the
request that the staff research the adopted standards for access point
separation of the Highway Plan.At that time,a motion was made by Ms.
Acord,seconded by Mr.Zombro,that in light of the numberous variances
being granted by the Commission,the staff investigate the feasibility of
reducing the distance requirements.Mr.Zombro then made a motion to
approve the minutes of the August 3,1987 meeting to include the correction,
seconded by Dr.Johns.So ordered.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS:
Hagerstown Travelers Plaza:
Mr.Jack Byers,Chairman,informed the audience that this item is not being
presented as a public hearing or a rezoning matter but as a continuation of
the concept plan review from the August meeting.He stated that the site is
zoned Highway Interchange and that a travel plaza is a permitted use in that
district.The Commission,upon completing its review of the concept plan,
will make recommendations to the consulting engineer on design features to
be incorporated into the site plan.He stated that the site plan,to be
submitted by the consultant at some future date,will be subject to review
by the appropriate agencies,and the Planning Commission will give final
approval to the site plan before issuing any building permits for
construction on the site.Mr.Byers stated that access to the site,
location of the buildings,landscape design,erosion and sediment control,
sewer and water capability,signs,the functional design compatibility with
the interchange intersection,buffer yards,distances to street access,and
screening are some of the considerations that will be reviewed on the site
plan.
At this time,Mr.Stephen Goodrich,Senior Planner,stated that at the
August regular meeting,the summary of the preliminary consultation was
submitted for the Commission's review.During this preliminary meeting,all
the various County agencies that will be reviewing and approving the site
plan were present and supplied the developers with the information on
requirements that will need to be met during development of the site and
also some requirements that have not been met.At the August meeting,the
Commission decided to take a field trip to visit the site prior to any
action being taken.The developer is requesting approval of the concept
plan so he may proceed with further detailed designs on the site.Mr.
Goodrich noted that a site plan has been submitted,which is a formal
application for approval of the development.He stated that a letter was
received from the State Highway Administration on September 14,1987
reiterating its concerns brought out during the consultation.The State
Highway Administration is requesting a traffic impact study which has not
been received as of this date.To break the access controls on Route 40,
this intersection must be a public road;a private road will not be
permitted,and Washington County must make a formal request to the State
Highway Administration to break the access control on Route 40.SRA is not
in agreement to allow a separate access to the shopping center via MD Route
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144 and requires that the entire development be served by the proposed new
street.Storm water management provisions must be approved by the State as
well as the County Engineer.In summary,Mr.Goodrich stated that the
consultant is requesting of the Planning Commission approval of the concept
plan in order that he can proceed with detailed engineering design for the
development.Mr.Goodrich stated that it should be made clear that any
approval for the concept plan is not construed as approval for the site
plan.
Mr.Malcolm Davis,of Davis,Renn and Shrader,reiterated that the concept
plan was presented to the Planning Commission during the August meeting.
Since the preliminary consultation was held,the plan has been revised in
accordance with the comments from the reviewing agencies.He stated that
the fast food restaurant has been moved,separate business entrances have
been removed,and the remaining accesses have been improved.
At this time,Mr.Tim Crosby,architect for the proposed development stated
that when the project was being planned,they knew that the controlled
access would need to be as far to the east on the site as possible on Route
40 with a large buffer area,per the Zoning Ordinance,along the eastern
side of the property.There is a 2%slope on the main roadway extending to
Western Maryland Parkway.He stated that the project was broken down into
three phases;1.)the Travel Plaza,which is located as close to Route 40 as
possible,2.)the shopping center,located at the southern edge of the site
near Route 144,and 3.)the motel complex,the stormwater management pond,
and the chapel,all located near Interstate 81.He stated that by breaking
the project into phases,traffic flow in and out of the property would be at
its best.Mr.Crosby stated that there is a great deal of green space ard
buffer yards on all sides of the property and that the truck parking is in
the 'well area',the lowest area of the site.Each parking area will be
separated by a green space and be gate-controlled.He stated that the truck
parking area is the greatest distance from any residential areas and is
visible from the highway.Automobiles,he said,are restricted to the upper
area of the site,and that there will be screening for the miniature golf
course.Mr.Crosby also said that the lighting for the shopping center will
be low intensity lighting directed so as to not cause unnecessary glare on
adjacent residential areas and that the lighting diffusion will be aided by
existing trees.
The Commission asked what the time frame for the development would be.Mr.
Baker,owner/developer of the site,stated that it's his desire to develop
the entire site at one time;however,a lending institution may not want to
put up enough money to develop the entire site at once,so it will be
developed in phases.Phase 1 will be the Travel Plaza,Phase 2 will be the
motel,and the Phase 3 will the shopping center.He stated that he would
like to have tenants for the buildings before contruction is started.
At this time,Sarah Foster,environmental consultant with Ideal Clemens,a
nationwide Environmental consulting firm stated that the Environmental
Impact Study has been completed.She noted that her firm analyzes
environmental and human health impacts of pollution problems including
hazardous wastes sites.She stated that her firm used a teChnique developed
by the EPA to evaulate potential human health risks with air quality and
water quality problems.In the study,they examined several chemicals
contained in truck exhaust that could contaminate the air and ground water
in the area.She stated that residents exposed to these chemicals in the
concentrations expected at the site run a 2 in 100,000 chance of developing
a related health problem (eg.cancer).Ms.Foster stated that the risks
associated with drinking the water from the reservoir and dying from cancer
were 2 in 100 million.She stated that the study also investigated the
potential risks associated with a chemical that is not associated with
cancer.They found that the maximum air concentrations estimated at the
site for the chemical was below any measurement criteria established by EPA.
Mr.Iseminger asked if there are guidelines on spills and accidents that may
occur in the travel plaza.Mr.Baker stated that the EPA has guidelines for
fuel related facilities in the case of accidential spills.There will need
to be reservoir areas around fuel tanks;in addition to this,tanks will
need to be placed into concrete vaults.The EPA requires that the
stormwater management system have oil and grease separators prior to any of
the stormwater entering into the stormwater management system.
383
384
At this time,Mr.Michael Shaefer,attorney,stated that the residents in
the area are opposed to this development.He said that the main concerns of
the residents in the area are:1.)the increase in traffic along Route 40
and Route 144,2.)the serving of alcohol at establishments on the site and
the resulting possibilities for an increase in drunk driving problems,3.)
the probability of increased crime in the area with drugs and prositution,
and 4.)air pollution from the truck fumes will cause breathing problems and
will discolor homes.Mr.Shaefer stated his opinion that a shopping center
was a Planned Business district zoning use and is not allowed in the "HI"
district.
Dr.Johns made a motion to approve the general concept plan for the
Hagerstown Travelers Plaza contingent upon compliance with State and County
agencies,County Planning staff,and the concerns outlined by Mr.Shaefer,
seconded by Mr.Iseminger.
Mr.Roulette made a motion to amend the aforementioned motion to include the
following conditions:1.)prior to the submittal and approval of the site
plan,a report on the historic structure must be submitted,2.)a copy of
the Environmental Impact Study be providedand the study is to be extended to
include the odor and fumes problem,3.)modification of the phasing of the
development to include the Travelers Plaza as the third phase to eliminate
the chance that it will be built and then the rest of the project will be
abandonded,4.)the design of the intersections of theaccess road with
Routes 40 and 144 must be approved by the State Highway Administration,5.)
before the approval or disapproval of the site plan,would like to see what
the access will look like,and 6.)how the new intersection on the north
side of Route 40 will affect the many residential properties.Mr.Iseminger
'seconded the motion to amend.The motion to amend carried with all voting
aye except for Ms.Acord who voted no.
On a motion to approve the general concept plan as amended,Mr.Roulette,
Mr.Iseminger,and Dr.Johns voted yes,and Ms.Acord and Mr.Zombro voted
no.Motion carried,so ordered.
Robert Beck 1986 Variance:
Mr.Hawbaker stated that the concept plan for Robert Beck was reviewed
during the August regular meeting and that since the preliminary
consultation was held,Mr.Beck has withdrawn his concept plan for a cluster
subdivision.He noted that adjacent residents of LuRose Estates have
questions concerning the future 50 foot right-of-way that was shown on the
Beck subdivision plat.Mr.Hawbaker stated that a variance was granted by
the Commission in July,1986 to allow the intersection of the future road to
be offset 25 feet instead of the required 150.One of the concerns of the
residents is the question of whether this variance runs with the property or
whether it was granted only for Mr.Beck.
At this time,Dr.John Stull,a resident of LuRose Estates,stated that Mr.
Rosenberry,the original developer had intended that LuRose Estates be
separated,not connected,with the lands to the north except as it may
include any future extension of LuRose Estates.The owner,Dr.Stull said,
changed his mind in developing this land and sold it to Mr.Beck.However,
in wanting to assure separation of LuRose Estates from the lands to the
north,Mr.Rosenberry adjusted thelots along the north side of Blossom Lane
in such a manner that a "thru"intersection could not be constructed.By
doing this,it was his intention that a proposed street would no longer
extend north.Dr.Stull stated that the residents are oppossed to this
variance because the owner showed intent that LuRose Estates should be
isolated.In any case,he said,the granting of this variance does not
comply with the County standards for street width since a recent survey
shows that instead of 50 feet,the reserved right of way is in fact only
46.3 feet.In addition,he stated,there are no lands owned by Mr.Beck
that would provide a proper turning radius and that the radius would have to
come from Dr.Danziger's front yard.He said that residents also feel that
the intersection would not be safe because of the many children in LuRose
Estates.They are requesting that the Planning Commission not permit the
transfer of the variance to the new owner and possibly consider not granting
a variance to any future owners.
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Dr.Danziger reiterated the facts presented by Dr.Stull and said that
LuRose Estates was intended as a small,quiet subdivision without the
possibility of expansion and the extension of Tropicana Drive.The land
that would be served by the extension of Tropicana Drive would generate
enough traffic to classify the street as a Minor Collector,thereby
requiring a 60 foot right of way.The requirement of the turning flare will
make it impossible to follow the Washington County specifications for public
streets.
After a brief discussion,Mr.Roulette made a motion to defer this matter
until the County Attorney can address the question of the transfer of the
variance with the property,seconded by Mr.Zombro.So ordered.
Sharrett Auto Mall:
Mr.Goodrich stated that the Commission reviewed the concept plan for the
Sharrett Auto Mall during the August regular meeting and that since then the
plan has been revised to provide for one car dealership instead of five.
The property is located in the south east quadrant of the US 40/1-70
interchange.A portion of the access road that was on the property of the
park-and-ride has been relocated onto the Sharrett property.Mr.Goodrich
stated that the consultant is requesting approval of the revised concept
plan before submitting a detailed site plan.The State Highway
Administration had major objections to a proposal to break access controls
and create a new crossover on US 40.Access is now proposed on the existing
roadways.Mr.Zombro made a motion to approve the revised concept plan,
seconded by Mr.Roulette.So ordered.
NEW BUSINESS:
Variances:
Maurice Martin:
Mr.Lung presented the variance for Maurice Martin.It is being requested
from Section 405.11b of the Subdivision Ordinance which requires that all
new lots have 25 feet of public road frontage.The subject site is located
on the west side of MD Route 63,between Huyetts Crossroads and 1-70,and is
zoned Highway Interchange.Mr.Martin is proposing to subdivide a 27.5 acre
parcel into three lots.Two of the lots will consist of 3 acres with
frontage on Route 63 to be used for commercial purposes.The third lot will
consist of 21 acres in the rear to be used for residential purposes.Mr.
Martin is proposing a single entrance onto Route 63 to serve the three
proposed lots with a 50 foot right-of-way to serve the rear lot.The
ownership for the 50 foot right-of-way will remain with Mr.Martin until
such time as a public street is constructed to serve the 21 acres to the
rear.The State Highway Administration has no objections to the variance
request with the conditions that the record plat indicates denial of access
on all lots except for future street location,and that the construction of
the future street will be subject to State Highway Administration Commerical
Entrance Permit requirements.The County Engineer has no objection to the
variance request based on the following conditions being met;1.)if either
of the two proposed Commerical lots have access onto the future street,the
street right-of-way width,pavement width and shoulder width will have to
meet the County's design criteria,and 2.)if the reserved strip is to be
used for a public street,the necessary rights-of-way for turning flares at
the MD Route 63 intersection will have to be provided.Mr.Lung stated that
if the variance is approved the developer should be encouraged to work with
the State Highway Administration and the County Engineer to make sure that
the 50 foot width is sufficient to meet this requirement.Mr.Byers
informed the applicant that no further subdivision of the 21 acre parcel
would be allowed until the public street is constructed.Mr.Zombro made a
motion to approve the variance based on the hardship that would result from
strict compliance,and the comments outlined by the State Highway
Administration and the County Engineer,seconded by Mr.Iseminger.So
ordered.
385
386
Dan Staley:
Miss Kelly presented the variance for Mr.Staley.The property in question
is located on the north side of Mt.Aetna Road,.4 miles east of its
intersection with Robinwood Drive.Mr.Staley is proposing to create a new
public street to serve his proposed 15 lot subdivision.Total area of the
development is 11 acres with a minimum lot size of 20,000 square feet.The
variance is being requested from the Highway Plan which requires 250 feet of
separation between the centerline of public street access points.At the
time of the preliminary consultation,the County Engineer had no problem
with the proposed street location.Dr.Johns made a motion to grant the
variance based on a hardship that would result from strict compliance,
seconded by Mr.Iseminger.So ordered.
Ann Holtzman:
Miss Kelly presented the variance for Ann Holtzman located on the northwest
side of Edgewood Drive,500 feet northeast of its intersection with Dual
Highway.Miss Holtzman is proposing to subdivide her 1.2 acre tract into
two parcels,each lot having approximately 60,000 square feet.Miss Kelly
noted that this property was rezoned from Residential Suburban to Business
Local in January,1986.The variance is being requested from the 25 foot
road frontage requirement for individual lots.There is approximately 38
feet fronting on Edgewood Drive with the entrance to be divided in half.
The County Engineer has concerns with residential property being created
near this intersection.Mr.Iseminger made a motion to grant the variance
based on a hardship that would result from strict compliance and based on
approval from the County Engineer,seconded by Ms.Acord.So ordered.
Subdivisions:
Holiday Farms,Section 4:
Mr.Lung presented the preliminary and final subdivision plat for Holiday
Farms,Section 4.The subject site is located on the north side of Route 64
near Cavetown and consists of 6 lots for a total of 4.42 acres.Lots range
in size from .57 acres to .79 acres.The site is zoned Agricultural and
public water is available.The subdivision involves the extension of Bayer
Drive,approximately 220 feet to a proposed cul-de-sac.Each lot will have
an on-site septic system.Approval has been received from the City of
Hagerstown Water Department.Verbal approval has been received from the
Health Department with written approval expected.The County Engineer has
approved the plat and construction drawings.Mr.Roulette made a motion to
approve the subdivision plat contingent upon receipt of Health Department
approval,seconded by Mr.Iseminger.So ordered.
Fieldstone Acres,Lots 11-17:
Mr.Lung presented the preliminary and final subdivision plat for Fieldstone
Acres,Lots 11-17.The subject site is located near Beaver Creek at the
intersection of Beaver Creek Road and White Hall Road and is zoned
Agricultural.Lots 1-10 were previously approved with frontage along Beaver
Creek Road.This section of Fieldstone Acres involves the construction of a
new County street approximately 450 feet long ending in a cul-de-sac off of
White Hall Road.All proposed lots will be served from this new public
street.The proposed lots range in size from 1.2 acres to 1.9 acres,and
each lot will have a private well and septic system.The County Engineer
has approved the plat without conditions.The Health Department requested
minor revisions to the plat showing the location of the existing wells and
septic areas in the vicinity.A revised plat was sent to the Health
Department,and its approval is pending.Mr.Lung noted that the developer
is proposing the name Mt.View Court for the new street.In checking with
the house numbering staff,it was discovered that there is an existing Mt.
View Circle in the County.Mr.Lung suggested another name be selected for
the proposed street.Mr.Iseminger made a motion to approve the subdivision
contingent upon receipt of approval from the Health Department and a
corrected name for the proposed new street,seconded by Ms.Acord.So
ordered.
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Site Plans:
Larstan Industries/Banks Brothers:
Mr.Lung presented the site plan for Larstan Industries/Banks Brothers
located in the Earley Industrial Park.The site is zoned Industrial
General.The site plan calls for the construction of a 200 x 250 foot metal
warehouse building to be located south of the existing building on a 12.5
acre site.Parking for 73 employees is provided along the east side of the
new building.The site is served by public water and a private septic
system.Trees are to be planted on the front of the lot along Earley Drive.
Mr.Lung stated that on the site plan there was a 30 x 30 foot loading area
designated.In order to conform with the Zoning Ordinance,this area should
be 10 x 45 feet.In addition to the new building a 150 x 450 foot outside
storage area is proposed to the south.The existing tree line will serve as
screening for the storage area.Mr.Lung stated that the existing tree line
consists of deciduous trees,and the staff is requesting,as a condition of
approval,that the developer augment the existing screening with evergreen
trees on Earley Drive.The City of Hagerstown Water Department and Soil
Conservation District approval is outstanding.The staff is requesting that
prior to site plan approval,the plan be revised to show the 10 x 45 foot
loading area and to add the requested screening along Earley Drive.Ms.
Acord made a motion to approve the site plan contingent on showing the
revised loading area but not the additional screening as requested by the
staff,seconded by Mr.Roulette.So ordered.
Martin Marietta Boonsboro Quarry:
Mr.Goodrich presented the site plan for Martin Marietta Boonsboro Quarry
located on the south side of Benevola Church Road to the west of its
intersection with Route 66.This plan shows the progress that has been made
in the mining operation since prior review in 1985.The pit has expanded
since that time.The plan is presented for approval of additional expansion
in the southwest corner of the site and slight modification to the storage
area.Martin Marietta is proposing an additional 22 acre quarry and another
7 acres of disturbed area for mining operations.There will be a change in
the screening;white pines will be accompanied by cypress and poplar trees.
The site plan meets all the requirements outlined in the Zoning Ordinance.
All changes requested by the Planning staff have been made.Approval from
the State Highway Administration is still outstanding.The developer is
requesting site plan approval contingent upon receipt of approvals from
other reviewing agencies.Dr.Johns made a motion to approve the site plan
contingent upon receipt from approving agencies,seconded by Mr.Zombro.So
ordered.
Preliminary Consultations:
Van Lear Manor,Sections 10 &11:
The preliminary consultation for Van Lear Manor,Sections 10 &11 was
presented to the Planning Commission for its information only.Mr.Lung
informed the Commission that the subject of making provisions for street
connections for possible development of adjacent land was discussed and will
need to be addressed at a future consultation for other sections of Van Lear
Manor.No action was taken by the Commission.
Holiday Farms,Section 4:
The preliminary consultation for Holiday Farms,Section 4 was presented to
the Planning Commission for its information only and nothing to be added by
the staff.No action was taken by the Commission.
Coventry By The Canal,Lots 5-14:
The preliminary consultation for Coventry By The Canal,Lots 5-14 was
presented to the Planning Commission for its information only with nothing
to be added by the staff.No action was taken by the Commission.
387
388 Fountain Head Meadows:
Mr.Goodrich stated that a preliminary consultation was held on August 5,
1987 for Fountain Head Meadows.The subject site is located on the south
side of Longmeadow Road east of Route 11.The original concept plan
indicated 140 residential units in a Residential Urban district.Since the
time of the consultation,the plan has been revised to show the removal of
the lots in the floodplain area.The County Engineer has serious concerns
for traffic and stormwater management.Mr.Goodrich stated that these
concerns may have been addressed to some degree with the reduction in the
number of lots to 86.The County Engineer stated during the consultation
that he wanted one point of access as far from Route 11 as possible.Access
onto Club Road was objectionable but still proposed.Mr.Goodrich stated
that the purpose in bringing this to the Planning Commission is to advise
them of the concerns of the County Engineer and to shaw that some of these
concerns have been addressed on the revised plan.Mr.Malcolm Davis,
consultant for the developer,stated that he has discussed the Club Road
connection with the County Engineer who stated that he may approve the
concept plan if the number of lots to have access on Club Road is reduced.
The consultant is requesting that the Commission approve the concept plan
and grant the authority to submit a preliminary plat to the staff.After a
brief discussion,by concensus,the Planning Commission informed the
consultant that it is concerned with the total number of lots now proposed
to use Club Road and that he should work with the County Engineer in an
effort to reduce that number.So ordered.
COMMUNICATIONS:
Letter from C.A.T.S.:
The letter from the Citizens Against the Truck Stop was submitted to the
Commission for its information.No action was taken by the Commission.
Letter from Constance Lieder:
A letter was received from Constance Lieder regarding impact fee bills.
After a brief discussion,Mr.Zombro made a motion to send a letter to the
Department of State Planning in opposition to the impact fee bill,seconded
by Dr.Johns.With a motion on the floor,Mr.Iseminger voted no,Ms.
Acord,Dr.Johns and Mr.Zombro voted yes.Motion carried.So ordered.
UNIFINISHED BUSINESS:
Text Amendment --"HP"District:
Mr.Hawbaker informed the Commission that the proposed Text Amendment for
the "HP"District went to public hearing and the record was held open for 10
days for any comments.The County Commissioners have reviewed the Text
Amendment and have expressed their concerns.Mr.Goodrich noted the
concerns of the County Commissioners were,1.)they did not want large
vacant areas zoned "HP",2.)on page 62e,delete references to abrasive
cleaning and silicone or sealant applications,and 3.)on page 62g,section
d,add that the use of the Secretary of the Interior's "Standards"noted in
20.6(a5)is advisory only and not mandatory.After a brief discussion,Mr.
Zombro made a motion that the Text Amendment for the "HP"District be
recommended as amended,seconded by Dr.Johns.So ordered.
OTHER BUSINESS:
Water and Sewer Plan Amendment for Maryland DOT:
Mr.Goodrich stated that during the August regular meeting the Planning
Commission approved the Water and Sewer Plan amendment for the Sandy Hook
area.He stated that a request was received from the Maryland Department of
Transportation to include a package treatment plant on Sidling Hill for an
overlook area to be included in the Water and Sewer Plan.After a brief
discussion,Mr.Iseminger made a motion to approve of proceeding with an
amendment to the Washington County Water and Sewerage Plan to include the
package treatment plant,seconded by Mr.Zombro.So ordered.
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North County Park Status:
Mr.Stachoviak stated that the County Commissioners asked the Parks Board to
find a site for the NOrth County Park and that they limited the area to
Maugansville and Leitersburg.Mr.Stachoviak stated that he has the first
two phases for the North County Park development completed using the same
general process of elimination that was employed in searching for a new
landfill site.The Parks Board will meet to discuss the third phase with
recommendations being forwarded to the County Commissioners.No action was
taken by the Commission.
Highway Plan Access Distance Analysis:
Mr.Hawbaker reported to the Commission that he recently received
information from the Department of State Planning for highway access
separation standards for subdivisions.At the August meeting,the Planning
Commission had asked the Executive Director to investigate Washington
County's existing standards in light of a possible modification.The data
received from the Department of State Planning is now under review and Mr.
Hawbaker intends to report his findings to the Commission at the October
meeting.
Highway Interchange Study:
Mr.Hawbaker stated that Tim Lung is working developing specific
recommendations for land classification in the Highway Interchange areas by
using the concept approved by the Planning Commission in conjunction with
the Economic Development Commission.Findings and recommendations will be
brought to the Commission at the October regular meeting.
.Rezoning Fee Schedule:
Mr.Hawbaker informed the Commission that the County Commissioners requested
that the Planning Commission review the fee schedule with other counties in
the state.Mr.Hawbaker submitted a rezoning fee schedule that was obtained
by the Department of State Planning.After a brief discussion,Dr.Johns
made a motion that the fee for a rezoning application should be changed from
$50 to $100 plus an additional $25 to be added to cover advertising costs,
seconded by Ms.Acord.With a motion on the floor,Ms.Acord,Dr.Johns and
Mr.Iseminger voted yes with Mr.Zombro voting no.The motion carried,but
the Commission then asked Mr.Hawbaker to bring the matter back at the
October meeting for further discussion.
Washington County Smoking Ordinance:
The Washington County Smoking Ordinance that was adopted by the County
Commissioners was presented to the Commission for its information.No
action was taken by the Commission.
AWOURNMENT :
There being no further business,
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WASHINGTON COUNTY PlANNING COMMISSION
REGULAR MEETING -OCTOBER 5,1987
The Washington County Planning Commission held its regular meeting on
October 5,1987 at 7:00 PM in the second floor conference room of the County
Office Building.
Present were:Chairman,Jack B.Byers;Vice-Chairman,Donald Zombro;Ex-
Officio,Richard Roulette;Bertrand Iseminger,Sidney Salitsky and Dr.Ray
Johns.Staff:Executive Director,Jack S.Hawbaker;Senior Planner,
Stephen T.Goodrich;Associate Planner,Lisa A.Kelly;Associate Planner,
Timothy A.Lung;Secretary,Janet L.King;Absent were:Paul Prodonovich,
Judith A.Acord and William Stachoviak.
CALL TO ORDER:
The meeting was called to order by the Chairman at 7:00 PM.
MINUTES:
Dr.Johns made a motion to approve the minutes of the September Regular
Meeting,seconded by Mr.Iseminger.So ordered.
NEW BUSINESS:
variances:
Dennis Lafferty:
Mr.Goodrich presented the variance for Dennis Lafferty who is requesting
permission to create a lot without public road frontage.The site is
located on the south side of U.S.40 south of the I-70;U.S.40 interchange.
Access to the property is a 16.5 foot right-of-way known as El Rancho Road.
Approximately 1600 feet of El Rancho Road is paved,and it serves three
other homes and approximately 25 mobile homes in a mobile home park.Dr.
Johns made a motion to grant the variance based on a hardship which would
result from strict compliance with the Ordianance,seconded by Mr.
Salitsky.So ordered.
Subdivisions:
South View Estates:
Miss Kelly presented the 4 lot preliminary and final subdivision plat for
South View Estates,located on the north side of Route 40,.4 miles east of
Clear Spring.The owner is proposing to subdivide his 14 acre tract into 4
residential lots with lots ranging in size from 3 to 4.5 acres.Each lot
will have individual wells and septic systems.State Highway Administration
and the Health Department have approved the plat.The County Engineer has
disapproved the subdivision because the proposed lots do not have public
road frontage.He stated that a note should be placed on the plat which
indicates that the access is not County owned or maintained and will not be
until the roadway is built to County standards at no cost to the County.
Mr.Roulette made a motion to approve the subdivision plat contingent upon
the statement being placed on the plat and the road being constructed to
County standards,seconded by Mr.Salitsky.So ordered.
County Commissioners/Bernard Lesky:
Mr.Goodrich presented the preliminary and final subdivision plat and site
plan for parcel "G"to be conveyed to Bernard Lesky by the County
Commissioners.Mr.Goodrich stated that all approving agencies had
responded except the County Engineer.He stated that the consultant,Davis,
Renn and Shrader is requesting that the Commission grant the staff the
authority to approve the subdivision plat and site plan pending receipt of
outstanding agency approvals.Mr.Roulette made a motion to grant staff
approval contingent upon agency approvals and added the condition that if
there were any problems the plans would be returned to the Planning
Commission,seconded by Dr.Johns.So ordered.
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Site Plans:
Improved Order of the Redmen:
Miss Kelly presented for the Commission's information the site plan for the
Improved Order of the Redmen,located on the south side of MD Route 68,one
mile southeast of williamsport.The subject site consists of 16.4 acres and
is zoned Agricultural,a zoning district where no site plan is required.
The owner is proposing to construct a 125'x 120'lodge with a pavilion and
162 parking spaces.The site is to be served by an individual well and
septic system.Approvals have been received from the State Highway
Administration,County Engineer,Soil Conservation,and the Health
Department.After a brief discussion,Mr.Roulette asked Mr.Hawbaker to
investigate the feasibility of requiring Planning Commission approval for a
site plan in an Agricultural district.
Cavetown Storage:
Miss Kelly presented the site plan for Cavetown Storage,located at the
intersection of Route 64 and Route 66.The proposed use of the site is for
two mini-warehouses approximately 20'x 140'in size on .6 acres.Due to
the nature of the use,no public facilities or solid waste disposal will be
required.There will be no need for employees,either.Landscaping is
sufficient.There will be a vison-proof fence constructed due to the
single-family residence adjacent to the site.The staff is requesting that
the most aesthetically pleasing side of the fence be shown towards the
adjacent house.The staff is also requesting that for better traffic flow,
some of the units be taken off the end so that cars can come along the side
and go back out at the end of the property rather than having to back up in
a 20'x 25'space.Approvals have been received from the Health Department,
County Engineer and State Highway Administration.Screening along Route 64
will consist of Spreading Yews to reach a height of 1 to 2 feet.The
Commission was of the opinion that because of the minimal traffic flow no
units would need to be removed.Mr.Iseminger made a motion to grant site
plan approval with the condition that additional screening be added along
Route 64,seconded by Dr.Johns.So ordered.
Subdivisions:
Holiday Estates:
Mr.Lung presented the preliminary and final subdivision plat for Holiday
Estates lots 1 through 410cated on the southeast corner of Cave Hill Road
and Itnyre Road zoned Agricultural.Total lot area is approximately 4.58
acres with lot #1 consisting of 1.5 acres,lot #2 is 1.4 acres,lot #3 is
1.09 acres and lot #4 is .92 acres with 20.93 acres remaining.Private
wells and septic systems are proposed for each lot.Lots 1 and 2 will have
access onto Cave Hill Road and lots 3 and 4 will have access onto Itnyre
Road.A preliminary consultation was held on May 8,1987 for the entire
development consisting of 17 lots.Mr.Lung stated that the County Engineer
approved the plat;he also stated that the Health Department approved the
plat based on their normal procedures.He noted that because of concern for
possible ground water contamination a peripheral well sampling was
conducted,the results indicated that changes of the new wells for the
proposed subdivision being contaminated were low.A test well was drilled
on lot 1 and tested for chemical and bacteriological contamination.Both
tests passed.Mr.Lung conclUded by stating that the proposed subdivision
meets the requirements of the Washington County Subdivision Ordinance and
Zoning Ordinance and that the consultant is requesting preliminary and final
approval.At this time,Mr.John Kelly,a resident of the area,spoke on
behalf of other property owners and himself.Mr.Kelly expressed concern
over existing well contamination problems in the area and the effect ath the
proposed subdivision may have on this problem along with the procedure that
the Health Department uses for testing and approving lots with private well
and septic systems.Mr.Kelly also expressed concern over stormwater runoff
problems on the site,he then presented to the Commission a petition signed
by residents of the area requesting that the subdivision be denied.After a
brief discussion,Mr.Roulette made a motion to approve the subdivision with
the condition that a hydrogeologic study be performed for the remaining lots
and that the County Engineer review the stormwater runoff prior to issuance
of building permits,seconded by Mr.Iseminger.So ordered.
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Site Plans:
Standard Acoustical Products:
Mr.Lung presented the site plan for Standard Acoustical Products located in
the Washington County Business Park.On an earlier site plan approved by
the Commission,Standard Acoustical proposed to construct a building with
10,000 square feet for itself in addition to 16 leased warehouse bays 25
feet wide by 100 feet long.There were also two future buildings to the
rear with the same configuration as the other building with warehouse bays
25'x 100'.The original plan showed a dumpster and loading dock to the
rear and individual parking spaces and small overhead doors for each of the
warehouse bays to the front.There would be landscaping provided in between
each overhead door.A revised site plan has been received which eliminates
the two future buildings to the rear and proposes a single building to the
front of the property.The building has been turned so that the loading
docks and the dumpster are in the front with the parking areas,small
overhead doors,and the landscape strips to the rear of the site.Due to
the fact that the building has been turned,the staff feels that additional
landscaping should be provided to the front of the building to screen it
from 1-81.Conunents were received from the Deputy Director of the Permits
and Inspections Office stating that the site is visible from 1-81 and that
the loading docks and dumpster should be relocated.After a brief
discussion,Mr.Iseminger made a motion to disapprove the site plan until
the loading dock and dumpster is moved from the front of the building,
seconded by Dr.Johns.The engineering consultant,Richard Brill of Fox &
Associates,was instructed to revise the site plan to comply with the
Comnission's requirements.Mr.Salitsky abstained.So ordered.
Preliminary Consultation:
AC &T 1-70/81 Travel Center:
The written summary of the preliminary consultation was presented to the
Planning Comnission for its information with nothing to be added by the
staff.Mr.George Harne,architect for the Travel Center,stated that the
tract of land is adjacent to the 70/81 Industrial Park consisting of 101
acres.The Travel Center will consist of a truck stop and an over-night
rest stop area.There are 22 acres reserved for comnercial or industrial
use.Access to the site will be via the existing AC &T fueling facilities.
Mr.Harne noted that the developer is not proposing any subdivision at this
time.By concensus,the Planning Comnission agreed with the general concept
for the Travel Center.
Rocky Spring Acres Extended (PC-87-26):
The written summary of the preliminary consultation for Rocky Spring Acres
Extended was presented to the Planning Comnission for its information with
nothing being added by the staff.
OTHER BUSINESS:
Fountain Head Meadows Concept Plan:
Mr.Goodrich stated that the concept plan was presented during the regular
September meeting at which time the Comnission instructed the engineering
consultant,Davis Renn &Shrader,to redesign the plan so as to limit the
number of lots accessing onto Club Road to a range of 15 to 25.The plan
has now been revised to show 30 dwelling units with access onto Club Road
with the area on the north side of the property,indicated on the original
concept plan for development,as being reserved for "future development".
Several residents of the Fountain Head area were present and expressed their
concerns with water pressure problems and increased traffic in the Fountain
Head area.After a discussion,Mr.Ismeinger made a motion to approve of
the concept plan with the condition that the County Engineer approve the
plan.The motion included a maximum number of 30 dwelling units to have
access onto Club Road.Seconded by Mr.Salitsky.So ordered.
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Site Plans:
Henry Martin:
Mr.Goodrich requested that the Planning Commission give the staff authority
to approve the site plan once agency approvals have been received.Mr.
Iseminger made a motion to grant staff authority to approve the site plan,
seconded by Dr.Johns.So ordered.
Communications:
Jack Berkley:
Mr.Hawbaker stated that a letter was received from Jack Berkley requesting
an amendment to the Washington County Zoning Ordinance to delete Section
5.1(g)which allows sawmills as a principal use in a Conservation District.
The Planning Commission is not inclined to remove this use since a sawmill
operation is one of the bonafide uses in a Conservation District.By
concensus,the Commission asked the Executive Director to write to Mr.
Berkley advising of the Commission's decision and to inform him of the
appeal process he may have used following the decision from the Board of
Zoning Appeals and also advise him that he may submit an application to a
text amendment if he chooses.
Letter from Constance Lieder -Department of State Planning:
A letter was received by the Executive Director from Secretary of State
Planning Constance Lieder commenting on the quality of the recently
submitted Land Preservation and Recreation Plan and asking for additional
information on the process for POS project selection.The Executive
Director informed the Commission that he would provide the additional data.
Highway Plan Access Distance Analysis:
Mr.Hawbaker presented an analysis of variances granted by the Commission
since the beginning of 1985.Of a total of 87 variances considered,25 have
been for access spacing,48 have been for public road frontage,and 14 were
related to other matters.He explained that the majority of variances
requested from the spacing requirements of the Highway Plan have been on
State roads.Mr.Goodrich explained the rationale of the spacing
requirements to the Commission.The commission said it would like to see a
breakdown of the actual access spacing distances granted to determine if
there is a pattern that could be used as guide for amending the current
standards.Mr.Hawbaker said he would further analyse the numbers and
return with additional suggestions at the next meeting.
Highway Interchange Study:
Mr.Hawbaker informed the Planning Commission that the staff has continued
with its analysis of the HI Study and,following approval by the County
Commissioners of the HI-l and HI-2 concept,has re-mapped the interchanges
between State Line and Salem Avenue.Mr.Roulette said it was his
understanding that the Zoning Ordinance text would first have to be amended
to provide the new standards for HI-l and HI-2 districts before taking the
map amendments to public hearing.After discussion between the Commission
and staff,the general concensus was that the text would be amended and
review by the Commission prior to consideration of any map amendments.Mr.
Hawbaker took this as an action item and said that he would report back to
the Commission after generating new language for the Ordinance text.
Rezoning Fee Schedule:
Mr.Hawbaker noted that during the September regular meeting the Planning
Commission made a recommendation to the County Commissioners to change the
amount for a rezoning application from $50 to $100 plus $25 for
advertising.By concensus,the Planning Commission asked Mr.Hawbaker to
forward this recommendation to the County Commissioners.
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Rezoning Text Amendment for the November Hearing:
Mr.Hawbaker informed the Commission that the single zoning map amendment
application that had been filed for the November 9,1987 Public Hearing had
been postponed at the request of the applicant.He asked the Commission its
wishes in respect to map amendments for the HP District and text amendments
for the Neighborhood Park Set-aside Area and the amendment pertaining to
Right of Entry for Zoning inspectors.The Commission asked the Executive
Director to do further research on the Set-aside Lands in light of areas
being dedicated to the County government.The Commission asked that the
hearing for the HP District and for the Right of Entry text amendment be
scheduled in one of the regular Tuesday meetings with the County
Commissioners.
Rezoning Cases from September 21,1987 -Workshop Date:
A workshop date to discuss the rezoning cases from the September 21,1987
Public Hearing was scheduled for October 19,1987 at 1:00 PM to be held in
the third floor conference room.
AllJOURNMENT :
There being no further business,the meeting was adjourned at 10:30 PM.
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Washington County Planning Commission
Regular Meeting -November 2,1987
The Washington County Planning Commission held its regular meeting on
November 2,1987 at 7:00 PM in the second floor conference room of the
County Office Building.
Present were:Chairman,Jack B.Byers;Vice-Chairman,Donald E.Zombro;Ex-
Officio,Richard E.Roulette;Dr.Ray Johns,Bertrand L.Iseminger,and
Sidney Salitsky.Staff:Executive Director,Jack S.Hawbaker;Senior
Planner,Stephen T.Goodrich;Associate Planner,Timothy A.Lung;Associate
Planner,Lisa A.Kelly;Deputy Director of Permits and Inspections,Paul
Prodonovich;and Secretary,Janet.L.King.Judith A.Acord was absent.
CALL TO ORDER:
The meeting was called to order by the Chairman at 7:00 PM.
ADDITION TO THE AGENDA:
Mr.Byers stated that there has been a request to add two items to the
agenda:l)a preliminary and final subdivision plat for Rocky Spring Acres
Extended;Mr.Zombro made a motion to add Rocky Spring Acres Extended to the
agenda,seconded by Dr.Johns.So ordered.2)Highland Manor Mobile Home
Subdivision;Mr.Merle Holsinger,with Associated Engineering Sciences,
stated that approvals are forthcoming from all reviewing agencies.He is
requesting a conditional approval from the Planning Commission contingent on
receipt of all agency approvals so his client will be able to apply for the
loan with Farmers Home Administration.Farmers Home Administration is
requesting a conditional approval letter so as to process the loan
application.Mr.Salitsky made a motion to add Highland Manor Mobile Home
Subdivision to the agenda,seconded by Mr.Iseminger.So ordered.
MINUTES:
Mr.Zombro made a motion to approve the minutes of the October regular
meeting,seconded by Mr.Salitsky.So ordered.
Mr.Zombro made a motion to approve the minutes of the Special Workshop
Meeting on October 19,seconded by Dr.Johns.So ordered.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS:
Robert Beck Variance:
Mr.Hawbaker informed the Commission that David Poole,the County's
Attorney,notified him that the variance which was granted to Robert Beck
runs with the land just as an easement or any change in zoning,that these
things are not granted solely to the present property onwer.Mr.Poole
stated in his letter that the required 50 foot right-of-way for a future
road must be complied with and that the 46.3 width as measured is not
adequate.
Dr.Danziger,a resident of LuRose Estates,asked if a road can be
constructed at this time.Mr.Roulette stated that a variance would be
required if the 50 foot right-of-way width cannot be obtained.Mr.Hawbaker
added that the 50 foot right-of-way width is in the County's Highway Plan.
Mr.Hawbaker feels that a variance would not be able to be granted due to
the fact that its also an Engineering requirement.By concensus,a road
connection cannot take place until approval has been given by the Planning
Commission and the County Engineer.
Fountain Head Meadows:
Mr.Goodrich stated that the Preliminary Consultation for Fountain Head
Meadows was held on August 5,1987.Since that meeting,the Planning
Commission has been presented a variety of development proposals with
varying numbers of lots and access arrangements.Increased traffic in the
existing Fountain Head development,especially on Club Road and on
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Longmeadow Road,have been the primary concern of the Commission and
adjacent property owners.
Conditional approval was given during the October meeting to a plan which
proposed 30 lots with access to Club Road and no development on the
remaining lands.The condition was that the County Engineer also give his
approval and comments on the number of lots and the road conditions.The
consultant has presented another plan during this meeting reducing the
number of lots with access to Club Road to 25,a result of the County
Engineer's comments in a memo dated October 8,which is a part of the
consultation file.
Mr.Malcolm Davis of Davis,Renn and Shrader,informed the Commission that
he has discussed the new proposed concept plan with the County Engineer.He
said Mr.Dull stated that Longmeadow Road will need to be widened to include
deceleration and acceleration lanes and that only one access should be
provided to the Commercial property.Mr.Davis gave the Planning Commission
a brief background on the proposed development.Mr.Davis summarized by
stating that since the September meeting,the lots have been enlarged by
30%,and the number of lots to have access onto Rolling Road has been set at
25 single-family dwellings,and the remaining lands fronting on Longmeadow
Road are proposed for duplexes.
Several of the adjacent property owners in the Fountain Head area expressed
concern about the present traffic problem.They questioned if Club Road
will be upgraded.Mr.Grunberg requested that all the property owners be
permitted to review the proposed concept plan.
After a brief discussion,Dr.Johns made a motion to approve the concept
plan as submitted,seconded by Mr.Zombro.Mr.Roulette made a motion to
amend the aforementioned motion to include the condition that when the final
subdivision plat is submitted the following should be stated on the plat:1)
a maximum of 25 lots restricted to single-family dwellings will be
permitted,2)no future access to any other lands from Club Road will be
permitted,and that 3)engineering and corrective measures for the present
drainage problem along Apple Tree Drive be included,seconded by Mr.
Salitsky.So ordered.
NEW BUSINESS:
variances:
James Frey:
Mr.Lung stated that two items need to be discussed and considered for James
Frey:a preliminary consultation and a variance request.The preliminary
consultation was held on October 5,1987 for a 25 residential lot
subdivision located along the east side of Fairplay Road.The site is zoned
Agriculture and covers 260 acres with 37 acres being considered for
development.The developer is proposing to construct the development in
three phases with phase 1 consisting of lots 1,2,3,11 and 12;there is
also a variance request to subdivide lots 3 and 12 without public road
frontage but with temporary access over a right-of-way for a street to be
developed at a later date.Phase 2 will consist of lots 4 through 10,13,
14,15 and 23 and the construction of the street from Fairplay Road to the
rear of lot 23.Phase 3 will consist of the remaining lots and streets.
During the preliminary consultation,the County Engineer had concerns with
the inadequacy of Fairplay Road.The Health Department expressed concerns
with the amount of limestone on the site and stated that it may not be
feasible to develop 37 lots.Tests will be required to determine the extent
of limestone in the area.The County Engineer stated that he will not
approve this subdivision because of the inadequacy of Fairplay Road and said
that the entire length of Fairplay Road will need to be improved before any
development can occur.Mr.Dull suggested to Mr.Frey that he obtain access
off of Route 65 through the adjacent lands owned by Mr.Mellott.Mr.Lung
stated that the inadequacy of Fairplay Road was discussed during the first
proposed development of Stoneleigh Estates in 1974.Based on the County
Engineer's recommendation in 1977,the Planning Commission limited the
number of lots that could be subdivided in Stoneleigh Estates to 21.Five
more lots were later approved,and then in 1981 the Planning Commission
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approved two additional lots for Stoneleigh Estates with the approval of
those last two lots,a note was added to the plat for Stoneleigh Estates
stating that there will be no further development of these lands until
Fairplay Road is upgraded.Mr.Frey is now requesting that the Planning
Commission state its position on his proposal and indicate how many lots,if
any,will be approved based on all other requirements being meL He is also
requesting the variance for two lots in phase 1 to be constructed without
pUblic road frontage until a new road is constructed.
Mr.Iseminger asked if the developer would share in the expense of the
improvements to Fairplay Road.Mr.Weikert,consultant for Mr.Frey,stated
that at this time it would not be possible.Mr.Weikert said that he
reviewed the possibility of an access for the development off of Route 65 as
well as from a cul-de-sac in Antietam Manor onto Grant Street.He stated
that due to the lot layout,a street is not feasible from the cul-de-sac.
Mr.Weikert noted that Mr.Frey has an access onto Route 65 approximately
3000 feet to the south of the proposed development and said that it is too
far away to construct a public street at this location to serve this
development.
Mr.Ken Grove,attorney for Mr.Frey,provided some background information
to the Planning Commission.He stated that there are two farms involved,
both belonging to Mrs.Edna Cave,the mother of James Frey.Mrs.Cave died
in October 1987 leaving Mr.Frey the farms.In order for Mr.Frey to be
able to pay the fees and taxes associated with his obtaining this land,it
is necessary that he sell some lots.Mr.Grove stated that Mr.Frey is
requesting that the Planning Commission accept the concept plan as presented
and that they grant the access for two lots without public road frontage
until Fairplay Road is improved.
Mr.Weikert stated that they are requesting the variance in order to allow
Mr.Frey to have 5 lots to sell without a the expense of constructing a
road.He stated if they are unsuccessful in selling or percing all 37 lots,
Mr.Frey would like to have the ability to subdivide at least 5 lots,3 with
frontage directly onto Fairplay Road and 2 off a private lane to be retained
by Mr.Frey which would,in the future,become a public street.If the
street is never built,the 50 foot right-of-way will be divided and conveyed
in fee to lots 3 and 12.This will be handled by a statement in the deed
for lots 3 and 12.No time table for the construction of the street was
discussed.
Mr.Roulette made a motion to approve the concept plan for 5 lots only and
to grant the variance request for lots 3 and 12 without public road frontage
based on the hardship that would result from strict compliance to the
Ordinance,seconded by Mr.Iseminger.Dr.Johns made a motion to amend the
aforementioned motion to state on the plat that this will be the last
subdivision to take place until Fairplay Road is improved,seconded by Mr.
Iseminger.All Commission members voted to amend the motion except for Mr.
Roulette who voted no.So ordered.
Subdivisions:
Towne Oak Village,Section B:
Mr.Lung presented the preliminary subdivision plat and site plan for Towne
Oak Village,Section B,Phase II,located on the south side of MD Route 632
off of Fairway Lane and Putter Drive.The developer is proposing to
construct 19 townhouse units along Putter Drive on a total area consisting
of 2.72 acres.The remaining lands will be reserved for open space and
stormwater management.This phase also involves the construction of a tot
lot to serve both Phase I and II and an RV parking lot.Off-street parking
is provided for each townhouse unit with a garage and driveway.Landscape
for this phase is adequate.The proposed plan meets all the requirements of
the Subdivision and Zoning Ordinances.Approval is outstanding from the
Sanitary District with a request that a note be placed on the plan obsolving
the District of any responsibility for owning and maintaining the grinder
pump sewage system.The note has been placed on the plan and a revised copy
has been sent to the Sanitary District for approval.The Health Department
needs the approval letter from the Sanitary District before giving its
approval.All other agency approvals have been received.Mr.Lung noted
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that the developer has not yet constructed the sidewalks and the two tot
lots that were required in previous sections.Paul Prodonovich said that
his office would follow up to assure compliance with the previous
requirements.Mr.Roulette made a motion to approve the preliminary plat
and site plan conditional upon receipt of approvals from the Health
Department and the Sanitary District,seconded by Mr.Zombro.So ordered.
H.D.Gossard Masonry:
Mr.Goodrich presented the preliminary plat and site plan for H.D.Gossard
Masonry and said that it is part of the County Commissioners'lands in the
Washington County Business Park located along the east side of Hump Road.
The site will be used for Gossard Masonry's office and warehouse.The
proposed building will be 14,000 square feet and surrounded by parking.The
property will be served by public sewer and a private well.There is a
public water line in MD Route 144,but it is 700 to 800 feet away from the
site.Approvals have been received from all agencies and all requirements
of the Ordinances have been met.The staff requested that the consultant
provide additional landscape around the gravel parking area because the
building will be visible from Mont Valla Avenue.Mr.Goodrich noted that
the Permits Office stated that no outside storage of junk materials should
be permitted on the site.The staff is also requesting that additional
screening be added on the south side of the building.Dr.Johns made a
motion to grant preliminary plat and site plan approval conditional upon
additional screening being added on the south side of the building,seconded
by Mr.Salitsky.So ordered.
"Fieldstone Acres:
Mr.Lung presented the preliminary and final plat for Fieldstone Acres,Lots
18 through 26.The developer is subdividing 9 additional lots located to
the north of Beaver Creek Road and to the west of White Hall Road.All of
the proposed lots will have frontage on a proposed new street to be called
Fieldstone Drive.Fieldstone Drive will be a cul-de-sac with access onto
Beaver Creek Road.Mr.Lung noted that a future point of access to the
remaining lands off of Fieldstone Drive is provided along the west side of
lot 26.Each lot will be served by a private well and septic system.All
agency approvals have been received except for the Health Department.Mr.
Iseminger made a motion to grant preliminary and final approval contingent
upon receipt of Health Department approval,seconded by Mr.Roulette.So
ordered.
Teleflex:
Mr.Lung presented the preliminary plat and site plan for Telexflex located
on the west side of the Western Maryland Parkway in the Washington County
Business Park.The site consists of 16.87 acres and is zoned Industrial
General with the proposed use to be for offices and a manufacturing
facility.The developer is proposing to construct a 90,000 square foot
building to be served by public water and sewer.There are 132 parking
spaces provided in front of the building;shipping and receiving areas and
dumpsters will be located to the rear of the building.Landscaping is
provided around the building and along the access road.All agency
approvals have been received.Mr.Zombro made a motion to aprove the
preliminary and final plat and site plan,seconded by Dr.Johns.So
ordered.
Michael &Denise Haller:
Miss Kelly presented the preliminary and final plat for a 3 lot residential
subdivision for Michael and Denise Haller.The subject site is located
along Route 67 below Brownsville.Access to the site will be via a private
right-of-way to be conveyed to immediate family members.Each lot will be
served by a private well and septic system.All agency approvals have been
received.Mr.Salitsky made a motion to approve the preliminary and final
plat,seconded by Mr.Roulette.So ordered.
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Site Plans:
Collins'Appliances:
Mr.Lung presented the site plan for a proposed addition to Collins'
Appliances which is located on Route 64 at the intersection of Route 64 and
Eastern Boulevard.The plan includes additional parking areas to the side
of the building and a loading area to the rear.Additional screening will
be required along the western property line.Access to the site will be via
a one-way access lane through the site with an exit into the alley in the
rear.All agency approvals have been received.Mr.Zornbro made a motion to
approve the site plan,seconded by Mr.Salitsky.So ordered.
Kline's Truck Sales and Service:
Mr.Lung presented the site plan for an addition and a change in use for
Kline's Truck Sales and Service located off the west side of Mason Dixon
Lane.The proposed use for this site is for a truck sales and service
garage.The site was previously used as a go-cart center then a wholesale
poultry business.The developer is proposing to remove the existing wood
frame building and replace it with a 50 x 30 metal building.The existing
go-cart track will be used as a truck display area.Additional gravel
parking is proposed and a loading area will be located to the rear of the
building.Access is provided by an existing 25 foot paved entrance.The
site will be served by the existing on-site well and septic system.
Additional landscaping to the front of the site will be provided and the
existing white pines will screen the south and west property lines.All
agency approvals have been received except for the Health Department.Mr.
Zornbro made a motion to approve the site plan conditional upon Health
Department approval,seconded by Dr.Johns.So ordered.
Chester H.Martin:
Mr.Lung presented the site plan for Chester Martin for a proposed quadplex
apartment development located in the southeast quadrant of Maugansville Road
and Martin Road,and zoned HI The 4 proposed quadplex apartments have been
reduced to 2 (8 dwelling units)based on restrictions received from the
Water Department.Mr.Lung noted that a preliminary consultation was held
for the entire development consisting of 20 quadplexes on a 57.48 acre
tract.Access to the development will be from Martin Road.Parking is
provided with 2 parking spaces per dwelling unit.An RV parking area is
required per the Zoning Ordinance.Public water and sewer is available to
the site.A 75 foot buffer yard around the adjacent house is provided.All
requirements of the Zoning Ordinance have been met.Mr.Roulette made a
motion to approve the site plan,seconded by Mr.Salitsky.So ordered.
Preliminary Consultations:
Foxleigh Meadows:
Mr.Goodrich stated that a preliminary consultation was held for Foxleigh
Meadows on October 21.The subject site is located to the northwest of the
intersection of Marsh Pike and MD Route 60.The developer is proposing a
210 lot residential subdivision on 130 acres in 3 phases.Mr.Goodrich
noted that no unsolvable problems appeared during the preliminary
consultation.Public water service is available to the site with
improvements to the system and that sewer service is available.State
Highway Administration commented that improvements are necessary to the
intersection of MD Route 60 and the Marsh Pike.The County Engineer
objected to the grass islands located in the middle of the cul-de-sacs.He
feels that these will be maintenance problems and that they should be
removed.Mr.Goodrich noted the staff's concerns for the access to lot 39
which required crossing the railroad tracks.He suggested that the
developer obtain another form of access to this lot.
Mr.Goodrich also noted a recurrent conflict between the County Engineer's
policy that new developments not be interconnected with the road systems in
adjacent neighborhoods and the Subdivision Ordinance Design Principles which
encourage it.The conflict is highlighted in the case of Foxleigh Meadows.
If no connection is provided to the Bradenburg property,it will be left
with only one point of access onto Northern Avenue for 60 acres.After a
brief discussion,Dr.Johns made a motion to approve the concept plan as
presented conditional upon an access being obtained for lot 39 so that there
is no railroad crossing,seconded by Mr.Salitsky.So ordered.
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Sulxlivisions:
Addition to the Agenda -Rocky Spring Acres Extended:
Mr.Lung presented the preliminary and final plat for Rocky Spring Acres
Extended.The development involves 6 lots to be located along Route 40-A,
zoned Agricultural.Mr.Lung noted that these 6 lots uses all of the
remaining lands owned by Mr.Shank located along the east side of Route 40-
A.The proposed lots vary in size from 1.4 acres to 10 acres and each lot
will be served by private wells and septic systems.Access will be from
Route 40-A.The County's Highway Plan classifies Route 40-A as a Minor
Arterial roadway with 500 feet of separation required between access
points.The developer is proposing to use shared accesses at three
locations that do meet all the requirements of the Highway Plan.There is a
30 foot wide drainage easement along the northern property line to be
conveyed to the County.Mr.Lung noted that to restrict further
sulxlividing,a note was placed on the plat stating that based on Highway
Plan requirements for access spacing,no future subdivision of these lands
will be permitted.The State Highway Administration has requested that a
note be placed on the plat stating that for lots 5 and 6 that there will be
flat grading of the embankment along the east side of Route 40-A to obtain
adequate site distance.Mr.Lung stated that the note has been added and a
revised copy has been sent to the SRA and verbal approval has been
received.Verbal approval has also been received from the Health
Department.Mr.Salitsky made a motion to approve the preliminary and final
plat conditioned on receipt of written agency approvals,seconded by Mr.
Roulette.So ordered.
Addition to the Agenda -Highland Manor Mobile Home Subdivision:
Mr.Merle Holsinger,consultant for Associated Engineering Sciences,
provided the information on Highland Manor Mobile Home Subdivision to the
Planning Commission.The subject site is located along Route 63,west of
Hagerstown and south of Huyetts Crossroads.The site consists of
approximately 52 acres.Phase 1 will consist of 77 mobile home units on 18
acres.The interior road system is constructed to have two accesses onto
Route 63.Interior streets will be built to County specifications.On-
street parking will be permitted.There will be a minimum of two parking
spaces provided per unit on each.Storrnwater management is provided at the
eastern edge of the property,west of Route 63.The comments from the
County Engineer have been addressed and the plan has been approved by Mr.
Dull.Approvals have been received from the Soil Conservation Service •
The City of Hagerstown Water Department commented on the water system
stating that pUblic service is available provided that a 24"concrete line
be constructed along the west side of Route 63.An 8"line will be used
through the development.Sewer service will be provided by a package
treatment plant to be located on the east side of Route 63.A discharge
permit for the package treatment plan was issued and is valid until 1989.
Mr.Holsinger stated that a package treatment plant will be used until a new
wastewater treatment plant is provided for the Halfway area.At that time,
service will be provided by the wastewater treatment plant and to be
operated by the Sanitary District.Mr.Holsinger noted that the developer
is requesting conditional approval contingent upon receipt of outstanding
agency approvals.
Mr.Stephen Sagi,developer for Highland Manor,stated that the funding
process takes 4 to 6 months through Farmers Home Administration (FrnHA).He
would like to begin construction before bad weather starts.He stated that
FrnHA is requesting a letter of approval before any of the funding process
can begin.After a brief discussion,Mr.Zornbro made a motion to grant
preliminary approval conditional upon agency and staff approvals,seconded
by Mr.Salitsky.So ordered.
COMMUNICATION:
Memo from Glenn Dull:
A memo was received from Glenn Dull commenting on the road width of County
roads.He feels that there should not be any future development on County
roads that have a paved width of less than 16 feet until the roadway is
improved.After a brief discussion,the Commission asked Mr.Hawbaker to
set up a workshop session with Mr.Dull and to notify Commission members of
the time and date.
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Letter from Thomas Connolly:
A letter was received from Thomas Connolly commenting on the traffic
problems in the Fountain Head area.No action was taken by the Commission.
Letter from Mr.&Mrs.Carl Snyder:
A letter was received from Mr.&Mrs.Carl Snyder commenting on the traffic
problem in the Fountain Head area.No action was taken by the Commission.
Letter from Joseph Proksa:
A letter was received from Joseph Proksa commenting on the traffic problem
in the Fountain Head area.No action was taken by the Commission.
Ronald Conrad:
Mr.Goodrich presented the site plan for Ronald Conrad (Nancy's Uniform
Shop).The site is located along Longmeadow Road.There is an existing 2
1/2 story building on the property with parking in the front.This site
plan is for additions to the building,walkways,and parking spaces.The
plan meets all the requirements of the Zoning Ordinance.All agency
approvals have been received.Dr.Johns made a motion to approve the site
plan,seconded by Mr.Salitsky.So ordered.
OTHER BUSINESS:
smithsburg Town Growth Area Development -Valley Spring Estates:
Mr.Hawbaker stated that the Valley Spring Estates development is being
brought to the Planning Commission's attention because of the cooperative
agreements resulting from the Smithsburg Town Growth Area study.The
Washington County Planning Commission asked the Town of Smithsburg to keep
the Commission informed of any development that takes place in the Town that
may affect the Growth Area.Mr.Goodrich stated that this site is located
within the Town of smithsburg behind the Moutain View Inn.Valley Spring
Estates is a townhouse development consisting of 54 units and is to be
served by one interior street to be called Johnston Terrace.The site will
be served by public water and sewer.No action was taken by the Commission.
Hancock Town Growth Area Status:
Mr.Hawbaker informed the Commission that approximately one year ago he &
Mr.Goodrich spoke with the Town of Hancock in regards to developing a Town
Growth Area boundary.He stated that they are discussing it and would like
for him to review the subject again in the future.Mr.Hawbaker noted that
if the Town is interested,there will need to be a Planning Commission
member to get involved in the study.Mr.Salitsky volunteered to be the
representative for the Town Growth Area study.
Highway Plan Access Distance Analysis:
A workshop session will be held on November 9 at 1:00 PM to discuss the
access spearation requirements.After a brief discussion,it was also
decided by concensus to have Glenn Dull,County Engineer,present to discuss
the road width requirements for existing County roads at the same workshop
session.
Future Zoning Ordinance Tests Amendments Status:
Mr.Hawbaker informed the Commission that the Highway Interchange amendment
and the Parkland Setaside Land is not ready for discussion at this time.It
will be ready prior to the rezoning hearing in March.
ADJOURNMENT:
There being no further business,the meeting was adjourned at 11:30 PM •
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//Jack B.Byers,Chait'am
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WASHINGTON COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION
REGULAR MEETING -DECEMBER 7,1987
The Washington County Planning Commission held its regular meeting on
December 7,1987 at 7:00 PM in Court Roem No.1 of the Court House.
Present were:Chairman,Jack B.Byers;Vice-Chairman,Denald E.Zombro;Ex-
Officio,Richard E.Roulette;Bertrand L.Iseminger,Dr.Ray Johns,Sidney
Salitsky and Judith A.Acord.Staff:Executive Director,Jack S.Hawbaker;
Senior Planner,Stephen T.Goodrich;Associate Planner,Timothy A.Lung;
Associate Planner,Lisa A.Kelly,Deputy Director of Permits and
Inspections,Paul Prodonovich,and Secretary,Janet L.King.
CALL TO ORDER:
The meeting was called to order by the Chairman at 7:00 PM.
MINUTES:
Mr.Zombro made a motion to approve the minutes of the November regular
meeting,seconded by Mr.Salitsky.So ordered.
Dr.Johns made a motion to approve the minutes of the Special Meeting on
November 9,seconded by Mr.Sali tsky •So ordered.
NEW BUSINESS:
Troupe Run Mobile Home Park:
Mr.Goodrich informed the Planning Commission that the developers of Troupe
Run Mobile Home Park are requesting an amendment to the Washington County
Water and Sewerage Plan.The amendment is necessary in order to provide the
correct priority designation in the Plan to construct a community sewerage
system that is required by the Zoning Ordinance for a mobile home park.The
subject site is located in the northeast quadrant of the intersection of MD
Route 63 and Broadfording Road.The developer is proposing two phases with
approximately no lots.Mr.Goodrich noted that in February,1985 a
preliminary consultation was held during which it was discovered that the
amendment to the Water and Sewerage Plan was needed.Mr.Goodrich stated
that the Water and Sewerage Plan is a document required by the State Health
Department that sets priorities for new public health facilities and for
improvements to exisiting health ,facilities.Mr.Goodrich noted that the
State Health Department must approve the construction drawings for the
proposed package treatment plant.Before it will begin review,the State
Health Department will insure compliance with the local Water and Sewerage
Plan which means inclusion of subject facilities.
Mr.Goodrich noted the four priority designations in the Water and Sewerage
Plan as:1)S-l;public facilities are either existing or under
construction,2)S-3;pUblic facilities are planned within a 5-year periOd,
3)S-5;pUblic facilities are planned within a 5 to 10-year period,and 4)
S-7;no public or community facilities are planned at all.He noted that
this property is noW classified as S-7;no public facilities are planned
within the 20-year planning period.The property should have at least an S-
5 designation to indicate that a public or community system is planned.The
actual time frame is less critical than the distinction between proposed
service and no planned service.Mr.Goodrich stated that if the amendment
to the Plan is approved,it must be consistent with the Comprehensive Plan.
He noted that the Comprehensive Plan discourages pUblic or community
facilities in a rural Agricultural area and read several excerpts to support
the position that the amendment could not be certified as consistent with
the Comprehensive Plan.
At this time,Mr.Kenneth Mackley,attorney for the developer,stated that
based on the report from Mr.Goodrich,it would be totally impossible for
the Commission to approve a mobile home park in an Agricultural zoning
district because no nAn zones have the proper Water and Sewerage Plan
designations.He informed the Commission that a mobile home park cannot be
constructed in anything but an Agricultural district in Washington County.
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Ms.Carrie Stamper,developer,stated that Milcar Construction is a local
builder and that they are concerned with development that goes on in
Washington County.She stated that before they develop anything in
Washington County,they want to know that there is a need for that type of
development.She spoke with other mobile home park owners in Washington
County who feel that there is a need for another mobile home park in the
County.At this time,Ms.Stamper presented two letters from mobile home
sales businesses in the area.Both businesses expressed a concern with the
shortage of mobile home rental spaces in Washington County.Ms.Stamper
stated that this mobile home park will be ocnstructed for people to buy a
mobile home and live in the park for the rest of their lives.She noted
that there will be no Federal money put into the park.
Mr.Merle Holsinger,from Associated Engineering Sciences,stated that there
are two areas that are located in the floodplain that will be kept as open
space for the park.The park is planned to accommodate 275 to 300 people.
The proposed roadways will have macadam surfaces.He noted that the
existing bridge on Broadfording Road over Troupe Run will be improved to
two-lanes.The improvement to the existing bridge or roadways will be the
responsibility of Milcar Construction.There will be a 50 foot buffer
between any exterior property lines and any of the mobile homes.There will
also be screening of the mobile home park from any adjacent homes in the
area.Mr.Holsinger stated that there has been a 12"water line recently
installed from Huyetts Crossroads north to Cearfoss that will serve the
development.A package treatment plant is being proposed for sewer service
to the site.
Mr.Mackley stated that the Urban Growth Area was not intended to be a
Chinese wall that would limit civilization,that there has been a change in
"the area with the recent installation of the public water line,and that the
State Health Department will approve the sewerage system.Mr.Mackley
stated that a mobile home park is needed in Washington County.
At this time,Mr.Les Wolfe,spokesman for the residents of the area,stated
that the County should consider the need for additional schools,buses,and
improvements to the highways in the area as a result of this development.
He stated that the recent construction of the water line in the area was
inteded only as a solution for a health problem in the Martins Crossroads-
Cearfoss area.He also stated that the discharge point for the mobile home
park involves the Troupe Run which is prone to flood in the summer months
and when the ground is frozen and that the water would be contaminated by
using Troupe Run for discharge purposes.
After a brief discussion,Dr.Johns made a motion to recommend that the
County Commissioners to hold a public hearing to consider an amendment to
the Washington County Water and Sewerage Plan,seconded by Mr.Salitsky •No
action was taken on this motion.Mr.Iseminger then made a motion to
rescind Dr.Johns I s motion to hold a public hearing.The motion died for a
lack of a second.Mr.Iseminger made a motion to table the application for
an amendment to the Water and Sewerage Plan until the January meeting so
more information can be supplied by the Planning staff to determine if the
amendment is consistent with the Comprehensive Plan,seconded by Mr.Zombro.
So ordered.
Variances:
Henry Mills:
Miss Kelly presented the variance request for Henry Mills.The subject site
is located along Route 68,.5 mile west of its intersection with the
Sharpsburg Pike.The total site encompasses 2.5 acres with an existing
house on the remaining lands.The variance request is based on Highway Plan
requirements which state there must be a 50 foot dedicated right-of-way on a
Minor Arterial roadway.Mr.Mills is requesting 30 feet from centerline on
Route 68.The State Highway Administration stated that no improvements are
planned to this section of Route 68.State Highway Administration requires
an 80 foot right-of-way or 40 feet from centerline.Mr.Frederick,
consultant for the applicant,stated that due to the requirements of the
State Highway Administration,Mr.Mills is changing his request from 30 feet
to 40 feet.Mr.Roulette made a motion to grant the variance based on a
hardship that would result from strict compliance to the Ordinance,seconded
by Mr.Iseminger.So ordered.
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Miss Kelly noted that the second variance request for Henry Mills is also
located along Route 68.The site consists of 2.5 acres and is zoned
Agricultural.The variance request is from Section 405.2(a)of the
Subdivision Ordinance which states that the Highway Plan requires a minimum
distance of 500 feet between proposed access points on a Minor Arterial
roadway.Mr.Mills is requesting a reduction from this requirement to 100
+.The State Highway Administration has no requirements for access spacing
along Minor Arterial roadways.Dr.Johns made a motion to grant the
variance request based on a hardship that would result from strict
compliance to the Ordinance,seconded by Mr.Zombro.So ordered.
Washington County Hospital Association:
Mr.Lung presented a variance request for the Washington County Hospital
Association located on the west side of MD Route 60 north of the Longmeadow
Shopping Center.The Washington County Highway Plan classifies MD Route 60
as an Intermediate Arterial highway with a future right-of-way dedication
requirement of 75 feet from centerline.Mr.Lung stated that the variance
request is to reduce the right-of-way dedication along MD Route 60 from 75
feet to 45 feet from centerline.The property is zoned PB and the setback
requirements are 50 feet.The State Highway Administration Needs Inventory
indicates that improvement plans for Route 60 will require 50 feet of right-
of-way from the centerline in the vicinity of this site.Mr.Lung stated
that the staff is recommending the denial of this variance request for 45
feet but suggests that the variance be granted based on the 50 foot right-
of-way needed by the State Highway Administration.Mr.Zombro made a motion
to grant the variance request for 45 feet from centerline based on a
hardship which will result from strict compliance to the Ordinance,seconded
by Ms.Acord.Dr.Johns abstained.So ordered.
David Fitzwater:
Mr.Lung presented the variance request for David Fitzwater located on the
south side of Wolfsville Road near the intersection with Georgetown Road.
The variance is being requested from Section 405.ll(b)of the Subdivision
Ordinance which requires that all new lots must have 25 feet of pUblic road
frontage.Mr.Fitzwater is requesting to create a lot without public road
frontage.He owns approximately 26 acres without any pUblic road frontage,
there is an existing dwelling on the property.Access to the property is
via a right-of-way approximately 1000 feet long across property owned by
Barrett Clark.Mr.Fitzwater is proposing to subdivide his 26 acres into
two parcels.
At this time,Mrs.Molly C.Day,Barrett Clark's sister and part owner of
the property,stated that they had no idea that Mr.Fitzwater wanted to
subdivide his lands and use the deeded right-of-way for access.Mrs.Day
noted that she would like to speak with her brother in greater detail before
giving permission to Mr.Fitzwater to use the right-of-way for access to
another lot.Dr.Johns made a motion to deny the variance request until the
access situation can be worked out between Mr.Fitzwater and the owners of
the right-of-way,seconded by Ms.Acord.So ordered.
Donald Fox Estate:
Mr.Lung presented the variance request for the Estate of Donald Fox located
on the south side of Broadfording Road west of the Conococheague Creek.The
request is from Section 405.ll(b)of the Subdivision Ordinance which
requires that all new lots have 25 feet of public road frontage.The site
consists of 71 acres and is zoned Agricultural.The site presently has
three dwellings on it.The applicant is proposing to subdivide two lots,
each containing one dwelling from this farm without pUblic road frontage.
Fred Frederick,agent for the applicant,stated that Broadfording Road
previously went through this site and had it not been relocated,these three
dwellings would have had fee simple public road frontage.The relocation of
Broadfording Road along with the existing topography along the road make
obtaining public road frontage somewhat impossible and,if obtained,
virtually unusuable.Mr.Lung stated that the property could be subdivided
with usable fronage by providing two,25 foot panhandles west of the
existing entrance.Mr.Frederick stated that he would be willing to amend
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his request and provide a 25 foot panhandle for one of the new lots with the
other lot having a plated right-of-way over the existing lane for means of
access.Mr.Iseminger made a motion to grant the variance to create one lot
without public road frontage based on a hardship that would result from
strict compliance to the Ordinance,seconded by Mr.Salitsky.Dr.Johns
voted no.So ordered.
Robert Holder:
Mr.Lung presented the variance for Robert Holder located on the west side
of Route 40-A north of Boonsboro.The variance is being requested from
Section 405.2A of the Subdivision Ordinance which states that the Highway
Plan requires 500 feet of access separation along a Minor Arterial roadway.
Mr.Holder is proposing to subdivide his 50 acre parcel into 22 residential
lots.Sixteen of these lots will have frontage and access onto a new pUblic
street,the other 6 lots will have direct access via shared driveways onto
Route 40-A.The location of the shared driveways meet the 500 foot minimum
access separation requirement;however,the proposed street is only 250 feet
from an existing private lane to the south.The State Highway
Administration has approved the location of the proposed new street.Dr.
Johns made a motion to grant the variances based on a hardship that would
result from strict compliance to .the Ordinance,seconded by Mr.Roulette.
So ordered.
Joseph &Kathleen Wiesenbaugh:
Mr.Goodrich presented the variance request for Joseph and Kathleen
Wiesenbaugh whose property is located on the south side of MD Route 418.
The Wiesenbaughs are proposing to subdivide a 5 acre +tract into 3 parcels
"to be conveyed to immediate family members.The only-public road frontage
for this property is a narrow panhandle out to Route 418.At the present
time,there is a driveway apron but it cannot be considered as an access
point to the property.Mr.Goodrich stated that the variance is being
requested because this panhandle is not considered an existing driveway by
the Planning staff;therefore,the Highway Plan standards must be met in
establishing a new access point.The County's Highway Plan classified Route
418 as an Intermediate Arterial roadway which requires 500 feet between
access points.Mr.Goodrich noted that the existing farm lane was proposed
as an access point into the property,but due to the topography of the land,
it would be useable.The proposed 3 lots will be served by a right-of-way.
Ownership of the panhandle will be kept in the Wiesenbaugh's name.Dr.
Johns made a motion to grant the variance based on topographical hardship
that would result from strict compliance to the Ordinance,seconded by Mr.
Salitsky •So ordered.
Alexis Gagarine:
Mr.Goodrich presented the variance request for Alexis Gagarine.The
property is located on the east side of Alt.U.S.Route 40,2 miles +south
of Funkstown.Mr.Goodrich explained that in the mid 1960's the Gagarines
owned the entire parcel along Route 40.It was later subdivided and the
Highway Plan permited one point of access for the original lot of record,
one point for all subdivision and no other access was permitted.Mr.
Goodrich noted that in May 1978,the State Highway Administration approved
an access for a new driveway (labeled B on the drawing)with no subdivision
proposed at that time.In July 1978,the subdivision of a 7 acre parcel
(not for development-labeled C on the drawing)was approved.The Highway
Plan permitted the existing points of access (labeled A on the drawing)plus
one new access for the subdivided lots (labeled C).The Planning Commission
required that access B be closed because the permitted number has been used.
In July 1979,the Planning Commission approved a 35 acre subdivision and
again required that access B be closed.Mr.Goodrich noted that in
September 1979,the Gagarines asked permission to have access B open on a
seasonal/agricultural basis for use while selling Christmas trees.The
Planning Commission granted the request.The Gagarines are now requesting
that the access be officially opened.Although it is supposed to be closed,
it is in fact used on a daily basis.The Highway Plan requires that there
be 500 feet between all new access points.The subject access is existing
and the separation requirements are met with all driveways to the south,but
the driveway to the north is approximately 190 feet away.After a brief
discussion,Mr.Zombro made a motion to grant the residential access
variance based on a hardship that would result from strict compliance to the
Ordinance,seconded by Ms.Acord.So ordered.
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Subdivisions:
Holiday Estates:
Mr.Lung presented the preliminary and final plat for Holiday Estates,Lots
5 through 13,located at the corner of Itnyre Road and Cave Hill Road.A
preliminary consultation was held for the entire 13 residential lot
subdivision in May,1987,and the Planning Commission approved four lots in
October,1987.The applicant is now requesting approval of the remaining 9
lots.These lots range in size from 1.18 acre to 3.29 acres with 5.07 acres
of remaining land.All agency approvals have been received.A
hydrogeologic study has been completed and reviewed by the Health
Department.The County Engineer has determined that site grading for
drainage is not necessary.In order to reduce the safety hazard that will
be created by 10 new entrances onto Itnyre Road,the Planning staff
recommended that the number of driveways be reduced to 4 by utilizing shared
driveways.Mr.Fred Frederick,consultant for the applicant,voiced his
objection to the staff's recommendation.He stated that he agreed with the
staff's concern,but did not feel that the purchasers of the lots should be
required to use shared driveways.After a discussion,Dr.Johns made a
motion to approve the preliminary and final plat as submitted with
individual driveways,seconded by Mr.Zombro.So ordered.
Ruth Ann Holtzman:
Miss Kelly presented the preliminary and final plat for Ruth Ann Holtzman.
The subject site is located on the north side of Edgewood Drive,500 feet
east of the Dual Highway.It has a current zoning of Business Local.The
applicant is proposing to subdivide her 1.16 acre tract into 2 parcels.Lot
1 will encompass less than 1 acre and will include the abandonded warehouse.
Lot 2 will consist of approximately .5 acres and is the site of the Allstate
Insurance Office.Public water and sewer will serve lot 1 upon request and
is currently serving the insurance office.All agency approvals have been
received.Mr.Zornbro made a motion to approve the preliminary and final
plat,seconded by Mr.Roulette.So ordered.
College Court:
Mr.Goodrich presented the preliminary plat and site plan for College Court
townhouses,located in the Youngstoun development along Robinwood Drive.
The development consists of 16 townhouses around the extension of a public
street to be called College Court North.The site will be served by public
water and sewer.A commcn open space will be provided to the east between
the existing apartment buildings and the proposed townhouses and there will
also be a small open space area located to the north of lot #7.College
Court North will be a public road with on-street parking provided.The
townhouses on lots 1 through 7 will have garages and driveways for each
unit.All agency approvals have been received,except for the Board of
Education.The County Engineer required a small modification to the
proposed street and a modification of the right-of-way at College Court
North and College Court South.Mr.Goodrich stated that the staff is
requesting preliminary plat and site plan approval contigent on receipt of
the Board of Education approval with the condition that the school bus turn-
around remains at the location shown on the plat.Mr.Salitsky made a
motion to grant preliminary plat and site plan approval conditional upon the
school bus turn-around remaining at the location as shown on the plat,
seconded by Mr.Zombro.So ordered.
Colonial Park East:
At this time,Chairman Byers stepped down because he is President of Home
Construction,the applicant,and Vice-Chairman Zombro chaired the meeting.
Mr.Lung presented the preliminary plat for Colonial Park East Section A,
located behind the existing Colonial Park on the north side of Route 40,to
be developed by Home Construction,Inc.Section A consists of a 44 lot
residential subdivision on 67 acres with access to the site by Cornell
Avenue with a future connection to Colonial Drive.This is the first
section of a proposed 189 lot subdivision.A preliminary consultation was
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held on March 20,1987.In 1977,this property was rezoned from Agriculture
to Residential Suburban,the County Commissioners put a condition on the
rezoning that traffic from a portion of the lots from this site use the
planned street,as outlined in the Highway Plan,and that no access be
provided through this development from any other site to Colonial Park.Mr.
Lung noted that the planned street is classified by the Highway Plan as a
proposed Minor Collector street to come off of Mt.Aetna Road and eventually
connect with a proposed Major Collector that will connect Edgewood Drive and
Eastern Boulevard.The proposed planned street was discussed during the
preliminary consultation and the County Engineer stated that these plans
have been dropped.The County Engineer has approved the preliminary plat
for Section A with the condition that the final roadway drawings be revised
as requested and that a site grading plan be included on the final plat for
lots A-I,A-7 and S-2.The Hagerstown Water Department has given its
approval contingent upon minor revisions being made to the construction
drawings.Hagerstown Water Pollution Control submitted written comments
which require the plat to be revised prior to approval.The Health
Department stated that it will need approval letters from Water Department
and Water Pollution Control Department before approval can be given.The
State Highway Administration stated at the time of the consultation that
they had no objections to the entire l89-lot subdivision;however,they have
since stated that they would like to further review the plan as it relates
to traffic flow onto Route 40 at Cornell Avenue and North Colonial Drive.
Mr.Lung noted that the proposed street named Auburn Way will need to be
changed because of an existing Auburn Drive.Mr.Lung stated that even
though this application is for only 44 out of the total 189 lots,the matter
of the conditions placed on the rezoning concerning traffic into the
existing Colonial Park should be resolved now.Mr.Fred Frederick,
·consultant for the applicant,stated that in his opinion the proposed 44 lot
subdivision meets the intent of the conditional rezoning in that this
subdivisoiin is only a portion of the total development.After some
discussion,Mr.Frederick stated that in order to spread out the traffic
generated by this section,they would be willing to make the connection onto
North Colonial Drive now instead of during the next phase.Mr.Iseminger
made a motion to grant preliminary plat approval conditioned upon receipt of
all outstanding agency approvals and construction of the street connection
onto North Colonial Drive,seconded by Ms.Acord.So ordered.
Site Plans:
Milcar Construction Medical Offices:
Miss Kelly presented the site plan for Milcar medical offices.The subject
site is located along the west side of Leitersburg Pike,situated between
the Longmeadow Bowling Alley and the 7-11 Store.The parcel has a current
zoning of Business Local.The site encompasses approximately .24 acres to
be used for office space for medical doctors.The proposed building will be
59'x 57'with eleven parking spaces to be provided.The site will be
served by pUblic water and sewer.Landscaping is provided along the
southern property line,in the front of the building,and at the entrance
along the Leitersburg Pike.All agency approvals have been received.The
Planning staff requested that a gate around the dumpster be provided to
shield it from Leitersburg Pike.Dr.Johns made a motion to approve the
site plan,seconded by Mr.Salitsky.So ordered.
Village Shopping Center:
Mr.Lung presented the site plan for the Village Shopping Center located on
the west side of MD Route 68,north of 1-70 near Clear Spring,zoned HI.
The owners are proposing to expand their existing building which is
currently being served by pUblic water and sewer by the Town of Clear
Spring.Verbal approval from the Town of Clear Spring has been received,
and written approval is forthcoming.Access to the site is via an existing
entrance onto Route 68.The State Highway Administration has requested that
the developer extend the existing curb and traffic-bearing shoulder
approximately 80 feet to the north to connect with the curb at the
Washington County National Savings Bank.The plan has been revised to show
the comments received from the Planning staff and the Permits Office.Mr.
Salitsky made a motion to approve the site plan conditional upon approvals
from the Town of Clear Spring and the State Highway Administration,seconded
by Mr.Roulette.So ordered.
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408
aTHER BUSINESS:
Ronald Leggett:
Mr.Goodrich stated that Mr.Leggett is requesting permission from the
Planning Commission to subdivide 5 lots on Monroe Road.The County Engineer
stated that Monroe Road is inadequate but would approve 3 lots.Mr.Leggett
is requesting that the Planning Commission override the County Engineer's
decision and approve all 5 lots.After reviewing the letter received from
Mr.Dull,Mr.Salitsky made a motion to table the request until the January
regular meeting so the Commission can view the site,seconded by Ms.Acord.
So ordered.
Preliminary Consultations:
Foxleigh Meadows:
The preliminary consultation for Foxleigh Meadows was presented to the
Planning Commission for its information with nothing to be added by the
staff.No action was taken by the Commission.
Chester Martin:
The preliminary consultation for Chester Martin was presented to the
Planning Commission for its information with nothing to be added by the
staff.No action was taken by the Commission.
Christopher Diehl:
Mr.Lung noted that this development involves a l800-foot cul-de-sac and
that the Subdivision Ordinance,at one time,had a requirement to limit the
length of cul-de-sacs to 600 feet.During the Preliminary Consultation,
there were no negative comments on the length.The Mt.Aetna fire
department had no comments on the length of the cul-de-sac but stated that
it would like to see a turn-around located approximately half-way along the
cul-de-sac.By concensus,the Commission determined that a turn-around
should be constructed in the middle of the cul-de-sac for fire safety
purposes.
Thomas Fath:
The preliminary consultation for Thomas Fath was presented to the Planning
Commission for its information with nothing to be added by the staff.No
action was taken by the Commission.
Western Commercial Funding:
The preliminary consultation for Western Commercial Funding was presented to
the Planning Commission for its information with nothing to be added by the
staff.No action was taken by the Commission.
OTHER BUSINESS:
South County Study Status:
Mr.Hawbaker stated that there have been meetings with the South County
Advisory Committee to review the proposed uses for the Battlefield buffer
zone.He noted that there will be no meetings during the month of December,
but two meetings will be held in January.The first meeting will be held to
discuss the Battlefield buffer zone,and the second meeting will entail a
presentation from the National Park Service on visible buffers for the area.
No action was taken by the Commission.
Rezoning Cases from November 17,1987 Hearing:
RZ-37l -Downs,Hastings,&U.S.A.:
Mr.Zombro made a motion to recommend to the County Commissioners to remove
the HP Overlay Zone from these three applications,seconded by Mr.
Iseminger.So ordered.
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RZ-372 -Right of Entry:
Mr.Zombro made a motion to recommend to the County Commissioners to approve
the Text Amendment for the Right of Entry,seconded by Mr.Iseminger.So
ordered.
Rezoning Cases from December 1,1987 Hearing:
RZ-373 -Douglas Gaylor:
Mr.Iseminger made a motion to recommend to the County Commissioners to
approve the Douglas Gaylor property to be rezoned from IG to RR,seconded by
Mr.Zombro.So ordered.
RZ-374 -Longmeadow Volunteer Fire Company:
Mr.Iseminger made a motion to recommend to the County Commissioners to
approve the Longmeadow Volunteer Fire Company to be rezoned from IG to RS,
seconded by Mr.Salitsky •So ordered.
Stewart Warehousing:
Mr.Hawbaker informed the Commission that in order to assist the applicant
with a tight time schedule in the construction of a new freezer building,he
has approved the site plan as an addition to the existing facility.The
Commission concurred that the approval,in light of the scheduling
constraits,was the appropriate action.
"Hagerstown Travelers Plaza:
Mr.Goodrich stated that a few comments have been received on the site plan.
He noted that when the Planning Commission approved the concept plan,it did
so with a condition that the environmental report be submitted to the
Planning Commission.Commission members indicated they had received copies
of that report.Mr.Goodrich noted that the report was submitted to the
Center for Environmental Health and the staff had received a copy of its
assessment.Commission members asked for copies of that letter.No action
was taken by the Commission.
APA Membership:
Mr.Hawbaker stated that the APA (American Planning Association)has
provisions for the entire Planning Commmission at $35 per member.By
concensus,it was agreed that Mr.Hawbaker arrange for membership for each
Planning Commission member.
COMMUNICATIONS:
Letter from Christine Rales:
A letter was received from Christine Rales expressing her concern on the
development of South Mountain and the Antietam Battlefield areas in
Washington County.No action was taken by the Commission.
Letter from Ted Wolford:
A letter was received from Ted Wolford,Superintendent of County Roads
Department,stating his recommendation that the Planning Commission endorse
the prohibition on development on roads less than 16 feet in width as
proposed in the letter from the County Engineer dated OCtober 21.The
Commission so noted Mr.Wolford's concern.
Letter from George E.Donn:
A letter was received from George Donn,Supervisor of Transportation for the
Washington County Board of Education,also stating his recommendations
relative to the subject of development on roads less than 16 feet in width.
The Commission so noted Mr.Donn's concerns.
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410
UNFINISHED BUSINESS:
Highway Plan Access Distance Analysis Status Report:
Mr.Hawbaker stated that Mr.Dull is still reviewing the access distance
separation question and that once the review is oomplete,it will be brought
back to the Commission.
ADJOURNMENT:
There being no further discussion,the meeting adjourned at 11:30 PM.
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