HomeMy WebLinkAbout1992 Minutes118
WASHINGTON COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION
REGULAR MEETING -JANUARY 6,1992
The Washington County Planning Commission held its regular
monthly meeting on Monday,January 6,1992 in the first floor
conference room of the County Administration Building.
Members present were:Chairman;Donald E.Zombro,Vice-Chairman;
Bertrand L.Iseminger,Carol Johnson,Bernard Moser,and Donald
Spickler.Staff:Senior Planner;Stephen T.Goodrich,Associate
Planners;Timothy A.Lung,Lisa Kelly Pietro,and Edward
Schreiber and Secretary,Janet L.Walkley.Absent were:Ex-
Officio;Ronald L.Bowers,Steven West and Planning Director,
Robert C.Arch.
CALL TO ORDER:
The meeting was called to order by the Chairman at 7:00 P.M.
MINUTES:
Mr.Moser made a motion to adopt the minutes of the Special
Meeting of October 21,1991 as written.Seconded by Mr.
Iseminger.So ordered.
Mr.Iseminger made a motion to adopt the
Meeting of November 18,1991 as written.
Johnson.So ordered.
minutes of the Special
Seconded by Mrs.
Mrs.Johnson made a motion to adopt the
Meeting of December 2,1991 as written.
Iseminger.So ordered.
Items to be Withdrawn from the Agenda:
minutes of the Regular
Seconded by Mr.
Mr.Goodrich informed Commission members that requests have been
made to withdraw the following items from this evening's agenda:
the Steve Bushey Adequate Public Facilities Ordinance roadway
determination,the Crawford/Sipes and David Fitzwater variance
requests,and the demolition permit for Mark D.Thomas.
Item to be Added to the Agenda:
Mr.Goodrich informed Commission members that a request has been
made to add the preliminary consultation for Terry Karn to this
evening's agenda.Mr.Spickler made a motion to add the Terry
Karn consultation to the agenda.Seconded by Mrs.Johnson.So
ordered.
NEW BUSINESS:
Variances:
Ernest Younker:
Mr.Schreiber presented the variance request for Ernest Younker.
The subject site is located along Millstone Circle in the area of
Orchard Ridge Road in Hancock.The variance is being requested
from Section 405.11.B which requires all new lots to have
frontage and access to streets owned and maintained by the
County.The applicant is proposing to create a 3 acre lot to be
located on a County owned but not maintained right-of-way.The
portion of Millstone Circle that the proposed lot would front is
dirt and gravel with steep topographic conditions.Mr.Iseminger
suggested that the County Engineer look at Millstone Circle to
determine if the entire road should be maintained by the County.
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After a discussion,Mr.Iseminger made a motion to table the
variance request until the February meeting so the county
Engineer can review the condition of Millstone Circle and to
determine whether the County should maintain the entire roadway.
Seconded by Mrs.Johnson.So ordered.
Subdivisions:
Cross Creek:
Mrs.Pietro presented the preliminary subdivision plat for Cross
Creek Phase I.The subject site is located along the east side
of the Sharpsburg Pike,just south of the 1-70 interchange.
Zoning is Highway Interchange.Phase I will consist of a
residential area and a business/office park on approximately 56
acres.The residential section will consist of 52 single-family
lots and 150 duplex lots on 43 acres.The business/office park
will encompass 13.3 acres.A total of 163 acres will remain.
The residential lots will be served by an internal public street
system which will link with Battle Creek Boulevard which will
connect with Maryland Route 65.A proposed future road will be
constructed upon development of any lands behind the railroad
tracks.It will also connect with Maryland Route 65.The site
will be served by public water and sewer.The Water Department
has issued approval for 100 dwelling units and after that,the
developer must upgrade the mains to the Sharpsburg Pike.Total
area of open space is 15 acres and will include two play fields,
a play lot,a multi-purpose court,a softball field,macadam
.walkway and a fibar fitness trail.There is floodplain and
wetlands on the site,however,this area will not be constructed
upon.If any development should occur within these areas,all
floodplain and wetland requirements must be met.Two 10 x 10 bus
waiting areas are provided throughout the residential portion of
the site.The business/office park is located along the south
side of Battle Creek Boulevard and will include four new lots in
addition to the one previously approved in July 1991.All these
lots will have access onto Battle Creek Boulevard;there will be
no access permitted onto poffenberger Road.These lots will also
be served by public water and sewer.All agencies have responded
and approved with conditions that changes be made at the final
plat stage.
Mrs.Johnson suggested that fencing be constructed along the
railroad tracks to the rear of the duplex units for safety
purposes.After a discussion,Mr.Hilton Smith,developer,
agreed to provide a fence and said he will work with the staff on
the type of fence to be constructed.
Mr.Moser asked what type of screening would be installed on lot
#1 in the business/office park.Mr.Lung said that vegetative
screening will be installed along the northern property line
between the residential and commercial sections with the
screening installed during the phase that is constructed first.
The screening should be on the commercial side of the property
line.
Mr.Iseminger said that due to the steep ravine,the pool was
removed and a play lot will be added.He asked what improvements
will be made to construct the play lot.Mr.William Weikert,Fox
and Associates,said the play lot will be moved to the west since
the topography is less severe.Mr.Iseminger added that the
proposed ball court is located within the floodplain area and
asked how grading will be handled.Mr.Weikert said grading will
not be required except for the backstop.
Mrs.Johnson suggested that a bus waiting area be constructed to
the rear of the residential area.Mr.Smith said he has no
problem adding another bus waiting area if it will be needed.
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Mr.Spickler ask~d if sidewalks are proposed since the trails are
not connected.Mrs.Pietro replied no.Mr.Goodrich added that
County street standards require paved shoulders which are
suitable for walking.Mr.Spickler said that the fibar trail
crosses the proposed future access road.He suggested that the
Planning Commission should require a bridge to be constructed
once the road is constructed.
Mr.Iseminger said there should be some type of crossing from the
residential area to the commercial area.Mr.Weikert had no
problem with installing a crosswalk to the commercial from the
residential.
Mr.Moser asked how many swings or play equipment are proposed
for the play lot to adequately serve this development.Mrs.
Pietro added that the developer is proposing swings,slides and
climbers for the play area.After a discussion,the Commission
requested that the Recreation Department be contacted to
determine the adequate number of play equipment to be installed
for this development.
Mr.Iseminger said that due to the allocation for public water
service,will this development be constructed in phases?Mr.
Bruce Cubbage,developer,said appro~imately 25 to 30 units will
be constructed at one time.Mr.Is·eminger said that he does not
want to see the play areas get tied Up with the allocation of
lots.He added that the pl~y lot should be constructed during
the first phase of construction.Mr.Iseminger added that the
developer can submit a phasing plan to the COmmission for future
use.
Mr.Iseminger made a motion to grant preliminary plat approval
for both the residential and commercial areas with the following
conditions:the final plat come back to the Planning Commission
prior to approval,the pedestrian crosswalk from the residential
section to the commercial section be added to the plan,the
developer work with the Planning staff on the construction of the
fence along the railroad tracks to the rear of the duplex units,
the developer work with the Parks and Recreation Department
regarding the adequate amount of play equipment for the play lot,
a future delineation for the crossing of the fibar trail be
shown,and that the amenities for the play areas be constructed
during the first phase of construction.Seconded by Mr.Moser.
So ordered.
Site Plans:
Washington County Hospital A~sociation Medical Center:
Mr.Lung presented the site plan for the Washington County
Hospital Association Medical Center.The site is located in the
Airport Business Park along the north side of Breezehill Drive.
Zoning is Highway Interchange.The developer is proposing to
construct a 60'x 100'building on 1.2 acres.Public water and
sewer serve the site.The County Engineer has waived stormwater
management requirements for this site plan.Due to an existing
house located on the adjacent property to the west and the
property being zoned HI,a 75 foot buffer is.required.The Board
of Zoning Appeals granted a variance for a reduction in the
buffer yard from 75 feet to 15 feet in March 1991.The Planning
Commission has the authority to establish additional setbacks if
necessary.Based on the landscaping and vegetative screening
that is proposed,the staff is not recommending any additional
requirements.Two entrances are proposed onto Breezehill Drive.
A total of 54 parking spaces are provided around the building.
Hours of operation will be 9:00 A.M.to 5:00 P.M.Monday through
Friday and 8:00 A.M.to 12:00 P.M.on Saturday.Mr.Lung
informed Commission members that a County Commuter bus route
serving Citicorp provides bus service to the site within walking
distance.According to Keith Godwin,Director of the County
Commuter,a bus waiting are at this site would not be necessary
at.t.his t.ime.A screened concrete .dumpsterpad is provided in
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the northeast corner of the parking lot.Due to the relative
small size of this operation,the staff does not recommend an
outside collection facility for recyclables.Recyclables will be
collected and .stored inside along with the medical waste.There
are two existing fire hydrants within 250 feet of the site.All
agency approvals have been received.Mr.Iseminger made a motion
to grant site plan approval.Seconded by Mrs.Johnson.So
ordered.
Burger Park USA:
Mrs.Pietro presented the site plan for Burger Park USA.She
informed Commission members that this site plan is to be added to
a previously approved site plan for the Village Square Shopping
Center.The subject site is located along the south side of
Maryland Route.64.The developer is proposing to ~onstruct an
800 square foot building with a drive-thru to be located on a
part of the 5.7 acre site.The restaurant will be constructed in
the former stormwater management area.The stormwater management
area has been moved to the west side of the site..The site will
be served by public water and sewer,however,sewer allocation
has not been granted by the Town of Smithsburg for this
restaurant.Hours of operation will be 9:00 A.M.to 11:00 P.M.
Monday through Saturday.projected customer use will be
approximately 150 patrons per day.Delivery will occur once a
week.An existing 10'x 45'loading area is located to the rear
of the retail stores.A dumpster will be provided to the rear of
the restaurant and will be enclosed with a six foot fence.A
total of 208 parking spaces are provided through the site.
Lighting will be building mounted and pole mounted throughout the
parking area.A sign for the restaurant will be included on the
main shopping center sign.Directional signs are to be located
at the accesses.Mrs.Pietro noted the sta~f's concerns for
traffic congestion in an area south of the proposed Burger Park
building where cars waiting in the drive-in line conflict with
auto parking and trucks that may be exiting the rear of the other
buildings in the shopping center.If trucks are unloading,they
will also be blocked by the cars in the drive-thru lane.All
agency approvals have been received except the Town of
Smithsburg's approval of sewage service.,Mr.Iseminger said he
has a problem with the site plan for the Village Square Shopping
Center being revised for stormwater management without Planning
Commission knowledge.He added that he would like to have the
entire history of the site prior to Planning Commission approval,
therefore,Mr.Iseminger made a motion to table any action on
this site plan.Seconded by Mr.Moser.So ordered.
Preliminary Consultations:
Western Commercial Funding Section E:
The written summary of the preliminary consultation for Western
Commercial Funding Section E was presented to the Commission with
nothing to be added by the staff.No action was taken by the
Commission.
Terry Karn:
Mrs.Pietro presented the preliminary consultation for Terry
Karn.The subject site is located along Porterstown and Geeting
Road.The developer is proposing to create 42 residential lots
on 55 acres.Zoning is Agricultural.Due to contamination in
some existing wells,the Health Department required a test well
on the site.After a discussion,no action was taken or
necessary by the Commission.
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OTHER BUSINESS:
Seventh Day Adventist Church/Youngstoun III PUD Lot #1:
Mr.Lung informed Commission members that a request has come from
Gerald A.Cump and Associates to revise the entrance location and
buffer yard for the concept plan for the Seventh Day Adventist
Church which is part of the Youngstoun III PUD.The subject site
is located at the intersection of Robinwood Drive and Sunrise
Boulevard.Due to topographic conditions,a small portion of the
proposed building and the parking lot infringes on the required
50 foot buffer yard/setback along the eastern property line.The
consultant is requesting that the Planning Commission reduce the
50 foot buffer/setback to 10 feet and to relocate the entrance
for the church from Sunrise Boulevard to Dawn Drive.Dawn Drive
is a proposed private street that will serve College Heights
apartments.Due to the higher elevation of the apartments in
comparison with the church site (10 to 12 foot difference),the
staff does not object to the reduction in the buffer yard.The
developer is proposing to provide landscaping and vegetative
screening along the property line.The developer is requesting
the entrance relocation due to steep grades on Sunrise Boulevard.
The developer's opinion is that it would be more feasible for the
entrance to be located onto Dawn Drive,a private road.The
County Engineer has no objection to the entrance relocation.The
site plan for the church as not yet been submitted.The Planning
Commission will have the opportunity to review the site plan
again or grant the staff the authority to approve the site plan .
.After a discussion,Mr.Iseminger made a motion to grant a
variance from the required 50 foot buffer to 10 feet and to
relocate the entrance onto Dawn Drive conditional that
appropriate landscaping and vegetative screening be provided.
The Commission also gave the staff the authority to grant site
plan approval for the church.Seconded by Mrs.Johnson.So
ordered.
Potomac Edison Ringgold/Liberty 138 Kv Transmission Line:
Mr.John Sanctner with Potomac Edison introduced Mr.Ed Dinda,
Mr.John Werking,Mr.Mike Watson and Ms.Patience Fisher from
Potomac Edison.Mr.Sanctner presented a map to the Commission
and illustrated on the map the proposed route for the
Ringgold/Liberty 138 Kv transmission line.Mr.Sanctner
explained to the Commission how Potomac Edison selected this
route.He added that PE took into consideration,among many
items,Historic Preservation,Agricultural Land Preservation and
the Special Planning Areas,ie.the Appalachian Trail and
Hagerstown Watershed,when selecting this proposed route.No
action was taken or necessary by the Commission.
Water and Sewerage Plan Amendment WS-91-9:
Mr.Goodrich reminded Commission members of a public hearing on
January 21,1992 at 10:00 A.M.during the County Commissioners'
Regular Meeting to discuss a Water and Sewerage Plan amendment
requested by the Washington County Sanitary District (WS-9l-9).
No action was taken by the Commission.
ADJOURNMENT:
There being no further business,the meeting adjourned at
9:30 P.M.
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WASHINGTON COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION
REGULAR MEETING -FEBRUARY 3,1992
The Washington County Planning Commission held its regular
monthly meeting on Monday,February 3,1992 in the first floor
conference room of the County Administration Building.
Members present were:Chairman;Donald E.Zombro,Vice-Chairman;
Bertrand L.Iseminger,Ex-Officio;Ronald L.Bowers,Carol
Johnson,Bernard Moser,and Steven West.Staff:Director;
Robert C.Arch,Associate Planners;James P.Brittain,Timothy A.
Lung,Lisa Kelly Pietro,and Edward Schreiber and Secretary,
Janet L.Walkley.Donald L.Spickler was absent.
CALL TO ORDER:
The meeting was called to order by the Chairman at 7:00 P.M.
OTHER BUSINESS:
Potomac Edison RZ-91-21 -Recommendation
Mr.Brittain requested that the Planning Commission defer taking
action on the text amendment for Potomac Edison until the March
meeting so the staff can review some details with the Zoning
Administrator.Mr.Iseminger made a motion to defer action until
the March meeting.Seconded by Mr.West.So ordered.
MINUTES:
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Mr.Iseminger made a motion to adopt the
Meeting of November 25,1991 as written.
So ordered.
minutes of the Workshop
Seconded by Mr.Moser.
Mr.Moser made a motion to adopt the minutes of the Regular
Meeting of January 6,1992 as written.Seconded by Mr.
Iseminger.So ordered.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS:
Ernest Younker Variance Request:
Mr.Schreiber reminded the Commission that this variance request
was tabled during the January meeting.The subject site is
located along Millstone Circle in the area of Orchard Ridge Road
in Hancock.The variance is being requested from Section
405.11.B which requires all new lots to have frontage and access
to streets owned and maintained by the County.The applicant
is proposing to create a 3 acre lot to be located on a County
owned but not maintained right-of-way.The portion of Millstone
Circle that the proposed lot would front is dirt and gravel with
steep topographic conditions.During the January meeting,
Commission members suggested that the County Engineer look at
Millstone Circle to determine if the entire road should be
maintained by the County.Mr.Schreiber said that after
conversation with Ted Wolford,Superintendent of the Roads
Department,and Terrence McGee,County Engineer,the staff was
informed that the applicant would have to petition the County to
provide maintenance for the road.To date,the applicant has
expressed no interest in doing so.The staff was also informed
that the proposed lot would be conveyed to an immediate family
member with the 10-year family member statement included on the
plat.Mr.Iseminger made a motion to grant the staff the
authority to approve the subdivision as a lot to be conveyed to
an immediate family member.Seconded by Mr.Bowers.So ordered.
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Burger Park U.S.A.Site Plan:
Mrs.Pietro reminded the Commission that during the January
meeting this site plan was tabled so that the Zoning
Administrator and County Engineer could appear before the
Commission to explain the history of the relocation of the
stormwater management area.She added that the Planning staff
did not receive the revised location for the stormwater
management area until the site plan for Burger Park was submitted
for approval.Mrs.Pietro reiterated concerns expressed during
the January meeting regarding the flow of traffic around the
Burger Park building.Cars waiting in the drive-in line might
conflict with vehicles parking and trucks that may be exiting the
rear of the other buildings in the shopping center.
Mr.Paul Prodonovich,Zoning Administrator,informed the
Commission that the site plan for the Village Square Shopping
Center did not include the Burger Park building.Mr.Prodonovich
noted that he was unaware of the change in the stormwater
management pond location until the Burger Park site plan was
submitted.If the site plan for Burger Park is not approved,the
original site plan for Village Square Shopping Center must be
adhered to showing the stormwater management pond in its original
location.Mr.Terrence McGee,County Engineer,stated that the
approved site plan for Village Square showed two stormwater
management ponds.It was requested that one pond be eliminated
and have a small drainage area into the larger pond.
Calculations were ran and all requirements were met.
Mr.Iseminger stated that in his opinion,the site plan for
Burger Park is too ambitious for what is already approved and
existing.He added that there is an existing dwelling on the
corner where traffic will turn into the site.He expressed
concern regarding headlights shining into the dwelling and asked
what provision for screening is proposed.Mrs.Pietro said a
fence will be constructed.
After a discussion,Mr.Iseminger made a motion to table any
action on the site plan until a site visit can be made with the
consultant and developer to see how the flow of traffic will work
around the building.Seconded by Mr.Bowers.So ordered.
NEW BUSINESS:
Ronnie Pittsnogle:
Mr.Schreiber presented the variance request for Ronnie
Pittsnogle.The site is located along the south side of Harpers
Ferry Road approximately 800 feet east of Lime Kiln Road.The
variance is being requested from Section 405.11.B of the
Subdivision Ordinance which states all new lots shall have 25
feet of public road frontage.The applicant is proposing to
create a 3 acre lot with 131 acres remaining.Parcel 106,which
is located in front of the proposed lot,is owned by the
applicant's mother and the applicants would use an existing
right-of-way that crosses her property as their means of ingress
and egress.This subdivision would qualify for either exemption
in Section 4.1 of the Adequate Public Facilities Ordinance.Mr.
Moser made a motion to grant the variance request.Seconded by
Mrs.Johnson.So ordered.
Valley World,Inc.:
Mr.Schreiber presented the variance request for Valley World,
Inc.The subject site is located along the north side of Cole
Road.Zoning is Highway Interchange.The variance is being
requested from Section 405.11.B of the Subdivision Ordinance
which requires that all new lots have 25 feet of public road
frontage.Mr.Schreiber gave a brief description of the history
of the property by reminding the Commission that a variance was
granted in 1988 for the same property for the subdivision of
three lots,two of which do not have public road frontage.Mr.
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Schreiber expressed concerns about granting another variance
which would be the third lot without public road frontage.He
pointed out if the parcel proposed to be subdivided were
subdivided as proposed,the existing structure and surrounding
area would not meet the requirements of the Zoning Ordinance.
Mr.William Young,attorney for the developer,commented on the
condominium regime and how the proposal would lessen the burden
on the existing structure.Mr.Iseminger indicated that a
financial hardship is not a valid hardship when granting variance
requests.He added that in his opinion the Planning Commission
was generous in granting the first variance request in 1988.Mr.
Iseminger made a motion to deny the variance request based on the
above findings.Seconded by Mr.Moser.So ordered.
Subdivisions:
Michael Development:
Mrs.Pietro presented the preliminary and final subdivision plat
for Michael Development,lots 6 through 10.The subject site is
located along the south side of Maryland Route 56.Zoning is
Agricultural.The owner is proposing to create 5 residential
lots ranging in size from 2 to 4 acres.Total area of the site
is 18 acres.The lots will be served by wells and septic
systems.Access to the lots will be via Route 56.All agency
approvals have been received.Mr.Iseminger made a motion to
grant preliminary and final plat approval.Seconded by Mr.
Moser.So ordered.
Food Lion:
Mrs.Pietro presented the preliminary/final subdivision and site
plan for Food Lion.The subject site is located in the southeast
corner of the intersection of Pennsylvania Avenue (U.S.Route
11)and Longmeadow Road.Zoning is Business General and Planned
Business.The owner is proposing to construct a 30,000 square
foot grocery store on 3.4 acres.Public water and sewer will
serve the site.A total of 10 full-time and 6 part-time
employees are proposed with hours of operation 8:00 A.M.to 10:00
P.M.seven days per week.A total of 149 parking spaces are
provided and will be located in the front of the site.Projected
daily use will be 1100 customers per day.Freight and delivery
will be 17 per day with loading and unloading being located to
the rear of the building.Solid waste will include one dumpster
to be located on the west side of the building.It will be
screened with a 6 foot high privacy fence.Additional space will
be set aside for recycling,however,it is not shown on the plan.
Lights will be building and pole mounted through the parking
area.Landscaping is adequate and will be located throughout the
site.A six foot screen will be planted to the rear of the site
to shield from adjacent residential properties.A future strip
shopping center will be added to the grocery store along the side
of the proposed building.The original access to the site was
via Longmeadow Road with an easement over the remaining lands
into the grocery store.In reviewing turning radius,the access
has been relocated further to the west on Longmeadow Road.The
staff has not had time to review the revised access location.
Access is also proposed along Pennsylvania Avenue and the
Maryland State Highway Administration has requested right turn in
and right turn out only.An additional access has been added to
the rear of Spicher's Appliance Store.This additional access
has not been reviewed at this time.Mrs.Pietro added that due
to the relocation of the access on Longmeadow Road,a variance
will be required from the required 300 feet of access spacing to
200 feet.
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Mr.Rick Ferris with Food Lion demonstrated proposed traffic
patterns on the site and discussed the recycling plan with
Commission members.
Mr.Terrence McGee,County Engineer,discussed the existing
stormwater management problems in the area and possible
alternatives to correcting the problem.
Mrs.Pietro stated that state Highway Administration approval is
outstanding,the County Engineer's approval is conditional based
on stormwater management concerns,and the staff needs to review
the traffic patterns to determine if there will be enough room
for delivery vehicles to move through the site.
After a discussion,Mrs.Johnson made a motion to table any
action on this subdivision until a Special Meeting can be held
due to concerns with traffic and stormwater management.Seconded
by Mr.Moser.Mr.Iseminger abstained.So ordered.
Planned Unit Development:
South Pointe Final Development Plan:
Mrs.Pietro presented the Final Development Plan for South Pointe
PUD.The subject site is located along the north side of East
Oak Ridge Drive.The developer is proposing to create 89 single-
family dwellings,150 one-story townhouses,142 two-story
townhouses,216 apartment units and 12 acres for commercial use
Qn 121 acres.A total of 30 acres will be reserved for open
space to include tennis courts,swimming pool,tot lots and
picnic areas.The site will be served by public water and sewer.
Mr.Bowers made a motion to approve the Final Development Plan.
Seconded by Mr.Moser.Mr.Iseminger abstained.So ordered.
At this time,Donald Zombro stepped down as Chairman.Mr.
Iseminger chaired the meeting at this time.
Preliminary Consultations:
Terry Karn:
The written summary of the preliminary consultation for Terry •
Karn was presented to the Commission with nothing being added by
the staff.No action was taken by the Commission.
Washington County Hospital Professional Medical Campus:
Mr.Brittain presented the concept plan for the Washington County
Hospital Professional Medical Campus.The site is located along
the northwest side Robinwood Drive 1500 feet east of Mt.Aetna
Road.Zoning is Residential Suburban.A Special Exception was
granted by the Board of Zoning Appeals for "uses"to be permitted
on this site.Phase A consists of 12 acres and the developer is
proposing to construct a 140,000 square foot two-story building
for medical clinic and physicians offices.A total of 500+
parking spaces are proposed.The requirements of the Board of
Zoning Appeals for the development of this property will be
attached to the written summary.The County Engineer has stated
that this site must have an on-site stormwater management
facility to be owned and maintained by the Hospital.A dual
roadway with median strip is proposed and being reviewed by the
County Engineer.Decel and accel lanes will be required on
Robinwood Drive on the opposite side of the entrance at the
location of the Elk's Club entrance onto Robinwood Drive.A by-
pass lane is also required.The Water Department is planning a
16 inch transmission main in the vicinity of this site.The
Water Department and consultant has met with the Elk's Club and
preliminary arrangements have been made to allow a 16 inch water
transmission line to feed this site.The transmission line will
cross the Elks'property from a water main located on Mt.Aetna
Road.A pumping station is proposed to sewer the site but there
are concerns how the station will interact with the existing
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station at HJC.Also,the status of the station (private vs.
public)will depend on how many individuals this pumping station
could actually serve.The developer was informed of the future
requirements of the Forest Conservation Program.The staff
discussed concerns with the Planning Commission regarding traffic
patterns for the general vicinity as this site becomes developed.
No action was taken by the Commission.
OTHER BUSINESS:
Steve Bushey -Roadway Adequacy Determination:
Mr.Brittain informed the Commission that the request by Steve
Bushey was tabled during the December meeting along with other
road adequacy determinations to give the Commission and the
County Engineer time to meet and discuss issues regarding road
adequacy on existing roadways.The County Engineer indicates
that upon review of the existing vertical curve alignment,the
proposed subdivision will still not meet the requirements as
outlined in the Adequate Public Facilities Ordinance nor the
criteria being proposed to revise the Ordinance.A memo from the
County Engineer dated January 6 indicates that portions of the
roads under review are not posted and would require a posting
speed of 25 mph to meet the revised criteria.Such posting would
be inconsistent with most other County speed limits on similar
roads and this posting is the responsibility of the Roads
Department.
Mr.Terrence McGee,County Engineer,discussed the vertical curve
and why the roadway is still inadequate.He added there is a
draft of the road adequacy policy which includes an exemption
clause exempting smaller lots (under 4 lots),however,this draft
has not been approved by the County Commissioners.
Mr.Fred Frederick,consultant for the developer,presented a
drawing showing the vertical alignment of Rock Hill Road which
indicated how sight distance along the roadway could be
determined.
After a discussion,Mr.West said,in his opinion,the Commission
should do the practical thing.He added that the problem is with
the existing Ordinance,not the road or the development.Mr.
West made a motion to grant the subdivision for Steve Bushey.
Seconded by Mr.Bowers.On a call for the question,Mr.West,
Mr.Bowers,Mrs.Johnson and Mr.Zombro voted 'aye'and Mr.Moser
and Mr.Iseminger voted 'nay'.The motion passed.
At this time Mr.Iseminger returned the Chair to Mr.Zombro.
Continental Investment Corporation -Cluster Approval:
Mr.Lung presented a Cluster Concept Plan proposed by Continental
Investment Corp.for a proposed residential development called
Rockland located along the west side of Maryland Route 65,south
of St.James Village and north of Maryland Route 68.The revised
concept plan for the development calls for 731 single family lots
along with a 18 hole golf course on a total of 443 acres.Lot
sizes will be reduced from 20,000 sq.ft.to a minimum of 9,000
sq.ft.It has been the developer's intent to use the cluster
concept since the initial Preliminary Consultation held in Feb.
1990.Mr.lung noted that the use of clustering would have to be
contingent upon the approval of an amendment to the Water and
Sewerage Plan allowing the provision of public water and sewer to
the site.Staff comments on the design were included in the
agenda packet.One of the staff'S concerns is that according to
the concept plan submitted,there are no other amenities proposed
other than a golf course.
Mac Davis,Consultant for the developer stated that this proposal
exhibits excellence in design in that it will create over 200
acres of green space.He also added that there are no reductions
in the normal setbacks being proposed.One of the developers,
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Adrian Carpenter stated that there will be a swimming club and
tennis courts provided as well as tot lots spread throughout the
development.Lot lines will be staggered in order to provide
better views of the open space.He added that they are asking
the Planning Commission for permission to use the Cluster Concept
so that they can proceed with fine tuning of the plans.He
stated that pedestrian paths or jogging paths may be incorporated
into the design.
Mr.West encouraged the developer to refine the open space to
make it more useful and universal for the joint use of all the
residents all year around.Mr.Carpenter noted that the golf
course would be a public,daily fee course.It would not be a
limited membership country club.
There was a discussion concerning the layout of the lots in
relation to the golf course and the need to make the open space
more universal to all of the residents.Mr.Lung pointed out a
change in the road layout and expressed the Staff's concern.He
noted that additional review of this design will be needed by
both the Planning Staff and the County Engineer.Mr.Moser and
Ms.Johnson expressed concern about approving the Cluster Concept
before action is taken on the Water and Sewerage Plan amendment.
Mr.West made a motion to grant approval for the use of
clustering for the Rockland development.Seconded by Mr.Bowers.
Mr.Bowers stated that the cluster concept shall be consistent
with what was approved for the Cross Creek development.Mr.
Bowers,Mr.West,and Mr zombro voted yes.Mrs.Johnson voted
no.Mr.Iseminger and Mr.Moser abstained.The motion passed.
So ordered.
Ronald Winebrenner RZ-91-15 Appeal:
It was noted that Ronald Winebrenner is appealing to the Circuit
Court the action taken by the County Commissioners on his
rezoning application for property located along the south side of
Route 40.No action was taken by the Commission.
Agricultural Advisory Board Recommendation:
Mr.Lung informed the Commission that they received a copy of a
memo to Barry Teach informing him of the Agricultural Advisory
Board's recommendation regarding historic preservation and
agricultural preservation districts.The Advisory Board is
recommending to the County Commissioners that historic
preservation overlays and agricultural districts be on separately
deeded parcels.The staff is of the opinion that there is not a
conflict between agricultural district and historic preservation
overlays and that separately deeded parcels are unnecessary.The
Planning Commission supported the staff's position.After a
discussion,Mr.Iseminger suggested that a Planning staff member
be present at the County Commissioners'meeting when this item is
discussed.
proposal for Recycling:
Mr.Brittain submitted the proposed amendment for recycling
within County developments.Under Article 4.3 it was decided to
delete the comma after the word 'material'.In addition,the
Commission requested that the staff insure that all applicable
"business"and "industrial"zones are included within the
proposed text amendment.
Clear Spring Town Growth Area:
Mr.Lung informed members that Donald Spickler had informed the
Planning staff that the Town of Clear Spring may be interested in
pursuing a Town Growth Area Study.The Town Clerk was not aware
of this but would contact the Mayor and Council.If the Town
decides to go ahead with the study,a committee would be
appointed by the Town to study the area.The Study would need to
be included in the Work Program.No action was taken by the
Commission ..
Special Meeting:
The Planning Commission will hold a Special Meeting on Monday,
February 10,1992 to discuss the Burger Park and Food Lion site
plans.Commission members will meet at the Burger Park site at
5:00 P.M.and then have a Special Meeting in the third floor
conference room to discuss the above-referenced site plans.
ADJOURNMENT:
~There being no further business,the meeting adjourned at
~10:00 P.M.
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WASHINGTON COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION
SPECIAL MEETING -FEBRUARY 10,1992
The Washington County Planning Commission held a special meeting
on Monday,February 10,1992 in the third floor conference room
of the County Administration Building.
Members present were:Chairman;Donald E.Zombro,Vice-Chairman;
Bertrand L.Iseminger,Ex-Officio;Ronald L.Bowers,Carol
Johnson,Bernard Moser,Donald Spickler and Steven West.Staff:
Director;Robert C.Arch,Associate Planner;Lisa Kelly Pietro,
Secretary,Janet L.Walkley.Also present were Paul Prodonovich,
Zoning Administrator and Terrence McGee,County Engineer.
CALL TO ORDER:
The meeting was called to order by the Chairman at 5:40 P.M.
Mr.Zombro informed the audience that this special meeting is a
public meeting and not a public hearing.He added that he agreed
to let Brad Gee to have five minutes to voice his concerns.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS:
Burger Park:
Mrs.Pietro informed Commission members that a revised plan was
submitted today.The revised plan shows landscaping at the edge
of the dumpster.The dumpster will be screened with a six foot
high privacy fence.Staff still has concerns with the traffic
flow and the potential back-up around the drive-thru.During a
site visit it was noted that a handicap space does not have a
ramp to enter the building.The ramp should be added.
Mr.Iseminger stated that during the site visit it was discussed
that installing a sign indicating one-way traffic to the rear of
the building as well as sufficient turning radius for truck
traffic should be added to the plan.He asked if the developer
had any objections to that request.Mr.Jerry Cump,consultant,
said they agree with that request.
Mr.Moser asked what the status of the sewer allocation is.Mr.
Bud Dahbura,owner/developer,said the sewer allocation should be
resolved this week.The sewer meter has been fixed at this time.
The development is using 500 gallons per day and the site has
been allocated 2000 gallons per day.
Mr.Bowers suggested that at the entrance into the site,traffic
signs should be installed delineating the flow of traffic through
the site.Mr.Cump said they are shown on the plan.
Mr.Spickler suggested delineating some of the parking spaces for
a straight access into the Burger Park site.Mr.Cump said the
proposed design is the Burger Park's layout.He added that the
access road is 37 feet in width.He suggested a sign indicating
the traffic flow to Burger Park.
Mr.Iseminger made a motion to grant site plan approval
conditional on adding screening as discussed during the site
visit along the rear of the site so headlights don't shine into
the existing house or onto Route 64,the addition of the handicap
ramp to the main building (north corner)and also to the Burger
Park site,addition of one-way signs on the access road along the
rear of the existing retail stores directing traffic north only,
there be sufficient turning radius for truck traffic to the rear
of the restaurant,and pending the resolution of the sewer
allocation with the Town of Smithsburg.Mr.Iseminger noted that
this Commission's actions in no way should influence or put undue
pressure on the Town of Smithsburg's decision in regard to the
sewer allocation matter.Seconded by Mr.Bowers.So ordered.
Food Lion:
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Mrs.Pietro informed Commission members that a revised site plan
was submitted to the Planning Office today.The revision
indicates a 40 foot wide access as requested by the County
Engineer.The proposed access from Spichers to Food Lion grocery
store site has been deleted.Easements have been worked out to
get the entrance location onto Pennsylvania Avenue (Route 11).A
variance is required due to the new access location being within
300 feet from the existing entrance into Spichers.The County
Engineer has no problem with the reduction in the access spacing.
The new access location is a better point of entry into the site
for trucks to move through the site.When the remaining lands
are developed,there will be an additional access constructed
onto Longmeadow Road.
Mr.Terrence McGee,County Engineer,reiterated the stormwater
management problems and possible alternatives to correct the
problem as discussed during the February Regular Meeting.
Mr.Brad Gee,property owner of lot #2 in Arborgate,expressed
concerns with water in his crawl space when the stormwater
management pond overfilled during a recent storm.He added that
water crests over his neighbor's driveway and along Arbor Drive.
After a discussion,Mr.Moser made a motion to grant the variance
request from the required 300 feet of spacing between new and
existing points of access.Seconded by Mr.West.Mr.Iseminger
abstained.So ordered.
Mr.West made a motion to grant site plan approval conditional on
the County Engineer and the developer working out off-site
improvements for the drainage area between lots #2 and #3 in
Arborgate.Seconded by Mr.Moser.Mr.Iseminger abstained.So
ordered.
Mr.Moser made a motion to grant preliminary and final
subdivision plat approval.Seconded by Mrs.Johnson.Mr.
Iseminger abstained.So ordered.
ADJOURNMENT:
There being no further business,the meeting adjourned at
6:30 P.M.
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WASHINGTON COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION
REGULAR MEETING -MARCH 2,1992
The Washington County Planning Commission held its.regular
monthly meeting on Monday,March 2,1992 in the first floor
conference room of the County Administration Building.
Members present were:Chairman;Donald E.Zombro,Vice-Chairman;
Bertrand L.Iseminger,Ex-Officio;Ronald L.Bowers,Carol
Johnson,Bernard Moser,Donald Spickler and Steven West.Staff:
Director;Robert C.Arch,Senior Planner;Stephen T.Goodrich,
Associate Planners;Timothy A.Lung,Lisa Kelly Pietro,Edward
Schreiber and Eric Seifarth,and Secretary,Janet L.Walkley.
CALL TO ORDER:
The meeting was called to order by the Chairman at 7:00 P.M.
MINUTES:
Mr.Moser made a motion to adopt the minutes of the February 3
regular meeting as written.Seconded by Mr.Iseminger.So
ordered.
Mr.Iseminger made a motion to adopt the minutes of the
February 10,1992 special meeting as written.Seconded by Mr.
West.So ordered.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS:
C.William Hetzer Rezoning Case:
Mr.Goodrich reminded the Commission that the rezoning case for
C.William Hetzer was heard in public hearing on
September 16,1991.The applicant was requesting that the
property located along the southwest side of Maryland Route 68 be
rezoned from Agricultural to Industrial Mineral.After the staff
presented the Staff Report Following the Public Hearing,the
Commission decided additional information was needed regarding
the impact of the rezoning on the roads in the area.Information
was received from C.William Hetzer and submitted to the State
Highway Administration and the County Engineer for their review.
Comments have been received from the County Engineer but are
still outstanding from the State Highway Administration.
After a discussion regarding the roadways in the vicinity of the
proposed rezoning site,Mr.West made a motion to recommend to
the County Commissioners that they approve rezoning case
Rz-91-l6.Seconded by Mr.Zombro.Mrs.Johnson opposed and Mr.
Moser and Mr.Bowers abstained.The motion passed.
NEW BUSINESS:
Variances:
Brenda Thomas:
Mr.Schreiber presented the variance request for Brenda Thomas.
The site is located along the west side of Clevelandtown Road
approximately 1600 feet north of Reno Monument Road.The
variance is being requested from Section 405.ll.G.4 and 5 of the
Subdivision Ordinance which states that the length of a panhandle
shall not exceed 400 feet and have no more than two tiers of
panhandles.The applicant is proposing to create a 30 acre lot
to be served by an 800 foot panhandle.A total of 5 acres
remains with an existing house.This proposed subdivision
qualifies for an exemption in Section 4.1 of the Adequate Public
Facilities Ordinance.The lot could be created without public
road frontage,however,the applicant is requesting its own
access onto Clevelandtown Road.After a brief discussion,Mr.
Iseminger made a motion to grant the variance request.Seconded
by Mr.West.So ordered.
Subdivisions:
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Orchard Heights:
Mrs.Pietro presented the preliminary and final subdivision plat
for Orchard Heights lots I through 4.The subject site is
located along the east side of Bain Road.Zoning is
Agricultural.During the December meeting,the developer
requested that five lots be approved.The County Engineer
disapproved the subdivision of five lots due to sight distance
problems on White Oak Ridge.The Planning Commission suggested
the elimination of one of the lots so the subdivision would
qualify for an exemption under the Adequate Public Facilities
Ordinance.The developer is now proposing to create 4 single-
family lots on 14 acres.The proposed lots will range in size
from 1.5 to 7 acres.A total of 130 acres will remain.The lots
will be served by individual wells and septic systems.Access to
the lots will be via Bain Road.All agency approvals have been
received.Mr.Iseminger made a motion to grant preliminary and
final plat approval.Seconded by Mr.Moser.So ordered.
Fortney Subdivision:
Mrs.pietro presented the preliminary and final subdivision plat
for Fortney Subdivision lot 1.The subject site is located along
the east side of U.S.Route 11.Zoning is Agricultural.The
applicant is proposing to create a 4.5 acre lot to include the
mobile home sales office.A total of 10 acres will remain.The
site is currently served by public water and sewer.An existing
access will serve the new lot via Route 11.The remaining lands
~ill access by a panhandle strip off Route 11.All agency
approvals have been received.
A discussion was held regarding the proximity of this site with
the Washington County Regional Airport.Mr.Iseminger made a
motion to grant preliminary and final plat approval conditional
on a statement being added to the plat and deed indicating the
proximity of this site with the Airport.Seconded by Mrs.
Johnson.So ordered.
Preliminary Consultations:
Washington County Hospital Professional Medical Campus:
The written summary of the preliminary consultation for the
Washington County Hospital Professional Medical Campus was
presented to the Planning Commission with nothing to be added by
the staff.No action was taken by the Planning Commission.
OTHER BUSINESS:
Maryland Environmental Service -
Maryland Correctional Institute Water Line:
Mr.Lung informed the Commission that in January the Maryland
Environmental Service (MES)requested that the County
Commissioners endorse the construction of a new water line in
order to improve the fire flow to the Maryland Correctional
Institute complex in the biennial update of the Washington County
Water and Sewerage Plan.This endorsement would allow MES to
proceed with the construction of the new line to the MCI complex.
MES plans to construct a 16 inch line from the vicinity of
Halfway County Park along Maryland Route 632 and Wrench Road then
cross country to the MCI complex.This construction would create
a loop system which provides a more reliable form of service.
This new line would have sufficient capacity to serve the growth
area from I-70 to the south.The proposed construction will
follow the guidelines of the Comprehensive Plan to serve the
growth area.No action was taken by the Commission.
Work Program:
Forest Conservation Plan:
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Mr.Goodrich informed the Commission that there is an
April 30,1992 deadline to submit the draft Forest Conservation
Plan.Implementation of the Plan is January 1993.The Forest
Conservation Act states that trees removed during the development
process must be replaced.It also requires that if development
occurs on a lot without trees,the developer must provide enough
to cover 15 to 20%of the site depending on the type of
development.The staff is trying to develop the Forest
Conservation Plan to fit the current procedures in the
Subdivision and Zoning Ordinances.There is a bill in the
legislature proposing a one year extension on the deadline for
submittal.It was noted that all municipalities except for the
City of Hagerstown have assigned their responsibilities to the
County for implementation of the Forest Conservation Plan.After
a discussion,no action was needed or taken by the Commission.
Park Plan:
Mr.Arch stated that on Wednesday,March 4,1992 a meeting will
be held at the Washington County Sanitary District to discuss the
concept plan for a park at the Rubble landfill.
Water and Sewerage Plan:
Mr.Lung informed the Commission that according to State law the
Water and Sewerage Plan must be updated every two years.The
State has granted an extension of time for the Plan to be adopted
by July 1,1992.The extension was requested in order to
_incorporate the recommendations of the Hagerstown/Washington
County Urban Growth Area Water and Sewer Study prepared by BCM
Engineers.Due to items needed to be worked out between the City
and County on the sewer portion of the recommendations,this item
will probably not be included in the update.Most of the update
information has been submitted by the service providing agencies
and municipalities.The updated plan should go to public hearing
during the month of May.No action was taken by the Commission.
Highway Interchange Study:
Mr.Arch stated that all of the interchanges have been
preliminarily mapped at this time.He informed the Commission of
a $30,000 grant that the County is attempting toobtain to support
work on this project.After a discussion,no action was taken by
the Commission.
House Numbering Program:
Mr.Arch stated that Smithsburg,the last area of the County,
will be implemented by the end of March.
Mr.Arch informed Commission members that a new Floodplain
Ordinance is being developed.Also,the Comprehensive Plan and
Zoning Ordinance will be required to be updated under the
proposedlegislation under consideration by the State Legislature.
Adequate Public Facilities Ordinance Status Report:
Mr.Arch distributed copies of the tables indicating student
capacities for the past six months.The report also indicated
the number of lots created with the exemption clause for schools
and roads.No subdivisions were denied due to water and sewerage
facilities.He reminded the Commission that the main problem
with enforcing the Ordinance was existing roads.The County
Engineer developed a draft policy to handle road adequacy
determinations for existing roads in Washington County.After a
brief discussion,Mr.Arch informed Commission members that
according to Article 11,the Planning Commission must determine
if there is a continuing need for the Adequate Public Facilities
Ordinance.Mr.Spickler made a motion to encourage the County
Commissioners to continue the Adequate Public Facilities
Ordinance with the possibility of adding impact fees and/or other
fees and the establishment of a Board of Public Works if
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necessary in order to implement impact fees.Seconded by Mr.
Moser.Mr.West voted no.So ordered.
Agricultural Land Preservation District Applications:
Eugene R.Bowman AD-91-57:
The Bowman farm is located 1/4 mile north of Black Rock Road just
4 miles southeast of Hagerstown.The farm consists of 39.8 acres
and has 87%qualifying soils.The farm qualifies for the Program
since its contiguous to the Snyder Agricultural Preservation
District.Mr.Moser made a motion to recommend to the County
Commissioners that the Bowman farm be included in the
Agricultural Land Preservation Program since it's consistent with
the Comprehensive Plan.Seconded by Mr.Spickler.Mr.Bowers
abstained.So ordered.
Charles W.Green AD-91-48:
The Green farm lies along both sides of Maryland Route 68 at its
intersection with Reichard Road just 3 miles south of Hagerstown.
The farm consists of 203.21 acres and has 51%qualifying soils.
Mrs.Johnson made a motion to recommend to the County
Commissioners that the Green farm be included in the Agricultural
Land Preservation Program since it's consistent with the
Comprehensive Plan.Seconded by Mr.Iseminger.Mr.Bowers
abstained.So ordered.
OTHER BUSINESS:
Potomac Edison Rezoning Cases RZ-91-21:
Mr.Goodrich informed the Commission that they received the Staff
Report Following the Public Hearing for the Potomac Edison
rezoning case in their agenda material.He briefly reiterated
comments from the staff report.After a discussion,Mr.
Iseminger made a motion to recommend to the County Commissioners
that they approve RZ-91-21 with the corrections made by the staff
referencing Sections 12.6(e)and 12.2(a).Seconded by Mr.West.
Mr.Moser and Mr.Bowers abstained.So ordered.
Mr.Iseminger made a motion that the County Attorney be consulted
to determine if a second public hearing will be required if
Section 12.2(a)is implemented as suggested by the staff.
Seconded by Mr.Spickler.Mr.Moser and Mr.Bowers abstained.
So ordered.
Washington County Sanitary District Water and Sewerage Plan
Amendment WS-91-9:
Mr.Zombro stated that Mr.West will not be able to vote on this
Water and Sewerage Plan amendment request since he did not attend
the hearing or listen to the tapes,Mr.Iseminger and Mr.Bowers
will be abstaining and that he will vote since he did listen to
the tapes.
Mr.Goodrich informed the Commission that they received the Staff
Report Following the Public Hearing in the agenda material.He
briefly reviewed the comments stated in the staff report.Mr.
Goodrich indicated the proposed service area for the S-3/W-3
classification on a map.After a discussion,Mr.Spickler made a
motion to recommend to the County Commissioners that approval of
WS-91-9 to change the service priority designation to W-3/S-3
would be consistent with the Comprehensive Plan.Seconded by Mr.
Zombro.Mrs.Johnson and Mr.Moser voted no.It was noted that
the County Commissioners will receive notification of the tied
vote.
Demolition Permit #92-0464 -Barn at Cross Creek:
Mr.Goodrich stated that the barn located on the property known
as Cross Creek along Maryland Route 65 is listed on the Historic
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Sites Survey.The owner of the property is proposing to remove
the barn which is part of the complex of 19th century buildings.
The Historic District Commission recommended approval of the
demolition permit.In conjunction with this approval,the HDC is
requesting that the owner provide the opportunity to other
parties to use the materials from this structure in other
restorations throughout the County.After a discussion,by
consensus,the Planning Commission is not opposed to the issuance
of the demolition permit.
Maryland Office of Planning:
Mr.Goodrich stated that representatives from the Maryland Office
of Planning were unable to attend the meeting this evening to
present a slide show on growth in Maryland.
By consensus,Commission members decided that this Commission
meet with the Frederick County Planning Commission to discuss
proposed developments located close to the Frederick/Washington
County line.Mr.Arch said he would set up a meeting.
ADJOURNMENT:
There being no further business,the meeting adjourned at
9:30 P.M.
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WASHINGTON COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION
SPECIAL MEETING -MARCH 12,1992
The Washington County Planning Commission held a special meeting
on Thursday,March 12,1992 in the third floor conference room of
the County Administration Building.
Members present were:Chairman;Donald E.Zombro,Vice-Chairman;
Bertrand L.Iseminger,Ex-Officio;Ronald L.Bowers,Bernard
Moser,Donald Spickler and Steven West.Staff:Director;Robert
C.Arch.Carol Johnson was absent.
CALL TO ORDER:
The meeting was called to order by the Chairman at 5:30 P.M.
The County Attorney briefed the Planning Commission on some legal
aspects regarding the Water and Sewerage Plan amendment for the
Washington County Sanitary District.
A discussion was held regarding the Planning Commission's By-
Laws.Based.on the criteria of the By-Laws,Mr.West made a
motion to waive the three-day notification of a hearing.
Seconded by Mr.Zombro.Mr.Iseminger abstained.So ordered.
Mr.West made a motion to hold a special meeting on Monday,
April 16,1992 at 5:30 P.M.to make a recommendation to the
County Commissioners on the Water and Sewerage Plan amendment for
the Washington County Sanitary District.Seconded by Mr.Bowers.
Mr.Iseminger abstained.So ordered.
ADJOURNMENT:
There being no further business,the meeting adjourned at
6:30 P.M.
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WASHINGTON COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION
SPECIAL MEETING -MARCH 16,1992
Members present were:Chairman,Donald E.Zombro;Vice-Chairman,
Bertrand L.Iseminger;Ex-Officio,Ronald L.Bowers,Bernard Moser,
and Donald Spickler.Also present were County Attorney Ralph
France and Planning Director Robert Arch.Commission members Carol
Johnson and Steve West were absent.
CALL TO ORDER:
The meeting was called to order by the Chairman at 5:30 P.M.
Water and sewerage Plan Amendment:
Washington County Sanitary District WS-91-9:
Mr.Arch reminded Commission members that during their regular
meeting of March 2,1992,the Commission had a tied vote regarding
the Water and Sewerage Plan amendment made by the Sanitary
District.The County Attorney determined the Planning Commission
needed to take action to certify that the amendment is consistent
with the Washington County Comprehensive Plan.
Mr.Bowers commented that hopefully there will be a point in time
where the approval/denial process for Water and Sewerage Plan
amendment requests can be clarified.In his opinion,he does not
appreciate what the Planning Commission,citizens,etc.go through
on a proposed request.It is not difficult to determine what the
plan calls for.The Water and Sewerage Plan indicates that all
amendment requests must be in accordance with the Comprehensive
Plan.
Mr.Spickler stated that in his opinion this request is consistent
with the policies of the Comprehensive Plan.The concern on this
request is where the boundary of the Urban Growth Area lies.The
Growth Area Boundary was drawn not to follow specific property
lines but in a general area as to where growth should be directed.
Mr.Zombro stated since there is a quorum,the Commission should
take action on the request this evening.He added that the Water
and Sewerage Plan is not being changed at this time.The
Commission is certifying that the proposed request is consistent
with the Comprehensive Plan.Mr.Moser added that he would rather
wait until the full Commission was present to take action.He
added that his position on this proposal has been stated during
previous meetings and has not changed.
Mr.Spickler made a motion to certify to the County Commissioners
that the proposed request by the Washington County Sanitary
District for WS-91-9 to establish a service priority designation of
W-3/S-3 for Subdistrict #16 is consistent with the policies of the
Washington County Comprehensive Plan.Seconded by Mr.Bowers.The
Commission is taking this action since the action taken during the
March 2,1992 meeting was insufficient with regard to meeting the
requirements as stated in the Water and Sewerage Plan.On the call
for the motion,Mr.Spickler,Mr.Zombro and Mr.Bowers voted yes,
Mr.Moser voted no and Mr.Iseminger abstained.Motion passes.
Meeting with the City of Hagerstown Planning Commission:
Mr.Arch informed members that the Hagerstown Planning Commission
has requested that the County Planning Commission meet with them on
Monday,April 13,1992 at 7:30 P.M.in City Hall.
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Meeting with Frederick County Planning Commission:
Mr.Arch informed members that he spoke with the Planning Director
of the Frederick County Planning Commission to inform him of the
requested meeting between the two Commissions.The Frederick
County Planning Director will be approaching his Commission to
request the meeting date and will get back with him.
Mr.Bowers suggested reviewing the Town Growth Area with the Town
of Smithsburg so adequate public facilities can be provided to
businesses within that area.
ADJOURNMENT:
There being no further business,the meeting adjourned at
6:00 P.M.
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WASHINGTON COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION
SPECIAL MEETING -MARCH 23,1992
The Washington County Planning Commission held a special meeting
on Monday,March 23,1992 in the third floor conference room of
the County Administration Building.
Members presen~were:Chairman;Donald E.Zombro,Vice-Chairman;
Bertrand L.Iseminger,EX-Officio;Ronald L.Bowers,Carol
Johnson,Bernard Moser,and Donald Spickler.Staff:Director;
Robert C.Arch,Associate Planner;Lisa Kelly Pietro,and
Secretary,Janet L.Walkley.
CALL TO ORDER:
The meeting was called to order by the Chairman at 5:30 P.M.
Mr.Zombro informed members that the County Commissioners
requested the Planning Commission hold a special meeting to take
action on the site plan for the proposed expansion to the General
Electric warehouse.
General Electric Site Plan:
Mrs.Pietro presented the site plan for General Electric.The
site is located along the north side of Shawley Drive,formerly
Martin Road.Zoning is Highway Interchange.Total area of the
property is 22.8 acres.The developer is proposing to construct
a 150,000 square foot addition to the existing warehouse.~wo
access points will serve the site;one existing and one proposed.
Public water and sewer also serve the site.The expansion will
add total of 40 main shift employees for a total of 80 employees.
A total of 76 parking spaces are provided with 40 spaces being
new.A total of 40 trips per day for freight and delivery are
expected.Solid waste is to be handled by an existing trash
compactor not to exceed what is handled at this time.The
development of a recycling plan was mentioned to the developer
and it was noted that GE has no recycling plan at this time.If
recycling needs to be added,there is sufficient room adjacent to
the trash compactor for the recycling facilities.Landscaping
will be added to shield the adjacent single-family dwelling,
white pines will be added to the front of the property,and also
along the parking islands.All agency approvals have been
received.A preliminary grading plan and footers were approved
by Gary Rohrer,Chief of Planning and Codes Administration,at
General Electric's risk.
After a discussion,Mr.Spickler made a motion to grant site plan
approval.Seconded by Mr.Moser.Mr.Iseminger abstained.So
ordered.
Mr.Bowers informed members that the convenience store in Clear
Spring does not appear to have been constructed as shown on the
approved site plan.He requested that Paul Prodonovich check
into the matter.
Meeting with Hagerstown Planning Commission:
Mr.Arch reminded members of the April 13,1992 meeting with the
Hagerstown Planning Commission to be held at City Hall at
7:00 P.M.
Meeting with Frederick County Planning Commission:
Mr.Arch stated that he still has not heard from the Director of
the Frederick County Planning Commission regarding the requested
meeting between the Washington County and Frederick County
Commissions.
ADJOURNMENT:
There being no further business,the meeting adjourned at
6:00 P.M.
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WASHINGTON COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION
REGULAR MEETING -APRIL 6,1992
The Washington County Planning Commission held its regular
monthly meeting on Monday,April 6,1992 in the first floor
conference room of the County Administration Building.
Members present were:Vice-Chairman;Bertrand L.Iseminger,
Ex-Officio;Ronald L.Bowers,Carol Johnson,Bernard Moser,and
Steven West.Staff:Director;Robert C.Arch,Senior Planner;
Stephen T.Goodrich,Associate Planners;Lisa Kelly Pietro,
Edward Schreiber and Eric Seifarth,and secretary,Janet L.
Walkley.Absent were Chairman Donald E.Zombro and Donald L.
Spickler.
CALL TO ORDER:
The meeting was called to order by the Vice-Chairman at 7:00 P.M.
MINUTES:
Mrs.Johnson made a motion to adopt the minutes of the regular
meeting of March 2,1992.Seconded by Mr.Bowers.So ordered.
Mr.Bowers made a motion to adopt the minutes of the special
meeting of March 12,1992.Seconded by Mr.Moser.So ordered.
Mr.Bowers made a motion to adopt the minutes of the special
~eeting of March 16,1992.Seconded by Mr.Moser.So ordered.
Mr.Bowers made a motion to adopt the minutes of the special
meeting of March 23,1992.Seconded by Mr.Moser.So ordered.
Mr.Arch informed the Commission the David Fitzwater and Dwayne
and Cheryl Gossard variance requests were withdrawn as well as
Hill-n-Dale Acres under Other Business.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS:
Menno Martin Subdivision:
Mrs.Pietro reminded the Commission that in 1988 a site plan was
approved for an existing 8 bay carwash.During the May 1991
meeting,Mr.Martin requested a one lot subdivision located along
the south side of Maugans Avenue.The 1.09 acre lot would
include the carwash.A total of 8 acres will remain which will
include Mr.Martin's dwelling.During that meeting discussion
was held regarding future right-Of-way dedication along the
remaining lands and the subdivision plat was tabled.Mr.Martin
is requesting that the Commission take action on the subdivision
plat.
Mr.Fred Frederick,consultant,stated that last year the County
Engineer,Mr.Martin and himself met in the field to establish an
alignment for the right-of-way dedication.Mr.Frederick
indicated that determining an exact measurement had not occurred
because this item was not a high priority item on the County
Engineer's Work Program.Mr.Martin indicated that he would
consider working with the County if the exact amount of right-of-
way recommended for proposed improvements was exactly determined.
During a discussion,Mr.Bowers made a motion to table the
request for subdivision until the May 1992 regular meeting.It
was added to the motion that the County Engineer place this item
on the Work Program and to meet with Fred Frederick to determine
the exact amount of right-of-way needed for the proposed
improvements.Seconded by Mrs.Johnson.So ordered.
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Variances:
Alvey Mowen:
Mr.Schreiber presented the variance request for Alvey Mowen.
The site is located along the south side of Broadfording Road
approximately .5 miles west of the Conococheague Creek.The
variance is being requested from Section 405.11.G.5.of the
Subdivision Ordinance which stated that panhandle lengths shall
not exceedl.400 feet.The applicant is proposing to create a 4
acre lot ~th a 575 foot panhandle and 2.4 acres remaining.The
property will be conveyed to an immediate family member and will
qualify for an exemption under Section 4.12 of the Adequate
Public Facilities Ordinance.Access to the lot will be via an
existing driveway on the remaining lands,however,the applicant
would like to have fee-simple road frontage.This request will
also require a variance from the Board of Zoning Appeals for a
building infringing on the 15 foot side yard setback.Mr.Moser
made a motion to grant the variance request.Seconded by Mr.
Bowers.Mr.Iseminger abstained.So ordered.
Jack and Rita Gertzog:
Mr.Schreiber presented the variance request for Jack and Rita
Gertzog.The site is located along the north side of Maryland
Route 77.The variance is being requested from Section 405.2A of
~he Subdivision Ordinance which states that the location of new
access points must conform to the County's Highway Plan.The
Highway Plan classifies Route 77 as a Major Collector with 300
feet of spacing between new and existing points of access.The
applicant is proposing to create a 4.36 acre lot with an access
location 205 feet from an existing access.This distance has
been recommended by the Maryland State Highway Administration in
order to improve sight distance.Mr.West made a motion to grant
the variance request.Seconded by Mr.Moser.So ordered.
Subdivisions:
Diversified Construction Services:
Mrs.Pietro presented the preliminary and final subdivision plat
for Diversified Construction Services.The site is located along
the south side of Breezehill Drive in the Airport Business Park.
Zoning is Highway Interchange.A variance to create the
remaining lands with the house on it and access via Citicorp
Drive was granted by the Planning Commission on December 2,1991.
The applicant is proposing to create a 12,000 square foot office
complex in the existing barn on 3.2 acres.Access to the site
will be via Breezehill Drive.A total of 40 parking spaces are
provided.Public water and sewer are existing in the area and
will serve the site.Landscaping is proposed around the driveway
and to the rear of the building.Solid waste will consist of one
dumpster at the end of the parking area with provisions for
recycling.Lights will be building mounted and a sign will be
constructed at the entrance.All agency approvals have been
received.Mr.Moser made a motion to grant preliminary and final
plat approval.Seconded by Mr.Bowers.So ordered.
Cross Creek:
Mrs.Pietro reminded the Commission that the preliminary
subdivision plat for Cross Creek was approved during the
March 1992 meeting.Fox and Associates is requesting a waiver
from the requirements that the Planning Commission review the
final plat and grant the staff authority to approve the plat in
house.Approvals are still outstanding from the County Engineer
and State Highway Administration on the final plat.During
review of the final plat,the staff had concerns regarding an
additional tot lot and also the type of fence to be constructed
between the railroad and townhouses.The developer was opposed
to the suggestions made by the staff.
3
Mr.William Weikert explained to the Commission the proposed
phasing schedule for Cross Creek and why it would be difficult to
construct an additional tot lot.
After a discussion with the Commission members and the developer,
it was decided that additional play equipment to include slides
and swings will be constructed and relocated once the developer
reaches phase 2 of the development.It was also discussed that
the construction of the tot lot must take place within a two year
period.Mr.Bowers made a motion to grant the staff the
authority to approve the final plat in house conditional on the
construction of the tot lot within a two year period.It was
noted that if the tot lot is not constructed within that time
frame,the issuance of building permits will be delayed.
Seconded by Mr.Moser.So ordered.
Site Plans:
BFI -Browning,Ferris Industries:
Mrs.Pietro presented the site plan for Browning Ferris
Industries.The site is located along the west side of Maryland
Route 63.Zoning is Highway Interchange.The applicant is
proposing to create a 9,000 square foot addition for a
maintenance building and truck wash.Public water and sewer
exists in the area and will serve the site.Two existing access
~ff Maryland Route 63 will serve the site.Lights will be
building mounted.Landscaping is proposed around the median
strip and stormwater management pond.No outside storage of
materials is proposed.Provisions for solid waste storage and
collection will be handled within the building and shipped out.
The applicant is in the process of obtaining a variance from the
Board of Zoning Appeals to permit a 10,000 gallon above-ground
fuel tank.All agency approvals have been received.Mr.Moser
made a motion to grant site plan approval.Seconded by Mr.
Bowers.So ordered.
Phoenix Color Group:
Mrs.Pietro presented the site plan for Phoenix Color Group.The
site is located along the south side of Tandy Drive in the
Washington County Business Park.Zoning is Industrial General.
The applicant is proposing to construct the facilities for
printing book covers with an office and warehouse on 8.3 acres.
Access to the site will be via Tandy Drive.Public water and
sewer will serve the site.A total of 116 parking spaces are
proposed including 3 handicap spaces.Lights will be building
mounted.A sign will be constructed at the entrance location.
Solid waste will consist of one dumpster with provisions for
recycling.Landscaping is proposed around the building and along
the front property line.All agency approvals have been
received.Mrs.Johnson made a motion to grant site plan
approval.
Preliminary Consultations:
Maple Valley Estates:
The written summary of the preliminary consultation for Maple
Valley Estates was presented to the Commission with nothing being
added by the staff.No action was taken by the Commission.
Saint Paul Estates:
The written summary of the preliminary consultation for Saint
Paul Estates was presented to the Commission with nothing being
added by the staff.No action was taken by the Commission.
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Agricultural Land Preservation District Applications:
Gerald Cavanaugh:
The Cavanaugh farm lies along the south side of Maryland Route 63
approximately I mile southeast of Downsville.The farm consists
of 237.758 acres and has 56.56%qualifying soils.Mrs.Johnson
made a motion to recommend to the County Commissioners that the
Cavanaugh farm be included in the Agricultural Preservation
Program since its consistent with the Comprehensive Plan.
Seconded by Mr.Moser.Mr.Bowers abstained.So ordered.
Oscar and Geraldine Hall:
The Hall farm is located 300 feet east of Dam No.4 Road and
borders the C &a Canal property to the south.The farm consists
of 30.29 acres and is contiguous with an 186 acre District.The
farm has 100%qualifying soils with forestry classification.
This District application has not been approved by the
Agricultural Advisory Board due to the Board trying to determine
how to handle parcels of "open space"land less than 100 acres in
size with forestry classification.Mr.West made a motion to
recommend to the County Commissioners that the Hall farm be
included in the Agricultural Land Preservation Program since it's
consistent with the Comprehensive Plan.Seconded by Mr.Moser.
Mrs.Johnson opposed and Mr.Bowers abstained.So ordered.
Walter Ludlam and C.L.Hirrlinger:
The Ludlam/Hirrlinger property is located along the east side of
Harpers Ferry Road approximately 3 1/2 miles southeast of
Sharpsburg.The farm consists of 40 acres and has 61.58%soils
in forestry classification.This District application has not
been approved by the Agricultural Advisory Board due to the Board
trying to determine how to handle parcels of "open space"land
less than 100 acres in size with forestry classification.Mr.
West made a motion to recommend to the County Commissioners that
the Ludlam/Hirrlinger farm be included in the Agricultural Land
Preservation Program since it's consistent with the Comprehensive
Plan.Seconded by Mr.Moser.Mrs.Johnson opposed and Mr.
Bowers abstained.So ordered.
OTHER BUSINESS:
Demolition Permit -Richard G.Winger #92-1666:
Mr.Goodrich informed the Commission that a demolition permit has
been received from Mr.Stine regarding property owned by Mr.
Richard Winger and located along the east side of Maryland Route
65 approximately 600 feet south of Leslie Drive.The permit is
to demolish a spring house associated with a 19th century farm
complex which is listed on the Washington County Historic Sites
Survey.The Historic District Commission reviewed the permit
application during its April 1 meeting and voted to present no
opposition to the demolition.Mr.Goodrich summarized the
details of the HDC's action and said that each member would
receive a copy of the letter.During the discussion,Mr.Stine
informed HDC members that he will be removing materials from the
spring house and transporting them to his own property on
Taylor's Landing Road for reconstruction.The Stine property is
also listed on the Historic Sites Survey.Mr.Bowers made a
motion to concur with the recommendation made by the Historic
District Commission.Seconded by Mr.Moser.So ordered.
5
Certification for Agricultural Preservation:
Mr.Seifarth presented information to the Planning Commission
concerning Washington County's application for certification to
receive an additional 42%of the Agricultural Transfer Tax.At
this time the State has tabled the application pending additional
steps they feel the County needs to take.Specifically,the
State would like more detail in our Comprehensive Plan outlining
a strategy for Agricultural Land Preservation to take place.The
Planning Commission members were not pleased with the responses
we have received from the State.They feel that we have met the
requirements of the Certification Program and we do not need to
change the Comprehensive Plan at this time.The Planning
Commission recommended sending a letter to the Maryland Office of
Planning and the Maryland Agricultural Land Preservation
Foundation stating our feelings and to set up a workshop to work
out our differences.
Floodplain Management Ordinance:
Mr.Arch informed members that they received a draft copy of the
Floodplain Management Ordinance.It was suggested to the
Commission that if they had comments after reviewing the draft
copy that they be forwarded to the Planning Office to be
incorporated prior to taking the draft to public hearing.No
action was taken by the Commission.
Forest Conservation Ordinance:
Mr.Goodrich distributed copies of the draft Forest Conservation
Ordinance to the Commission.He informed members that the draft
was based on a model received from the Department of Natural
Resources.No action was taken by the Commission.
Rezoning Cases:
By consensus,the rezoning cases will be discussed during the May
regular meeting.
Meeting with Hagerstown Planning Commission:
Mr.Arch reminded members that the joint meeting with the
Hagerstown Planning Commission will be held on Monday,April 13
at 7 :00 P.M.in City Hall.
Meeting with Frederick County Planning Commission:
Mr.Arch informed members that a tentative date has been set to
meet with the Frederick County Planning Commission on May 18.
ADJOURNMENT:
There being no further business,the meeting adjourned at
9:00 P.M.
Donald E.
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WASHINGTON COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION
REGULAR MEETING -MAY 4,1992
The Washington County Planning Commission held its regular
monthly meeting on Monday,May 4,1992 in the first floor
conference room of the County Administration Building.
Members present were:Chairman;Donald E.Zombro,Vice-Chairman;
Bertrand L.Iseminger,Carol Johnson,Bernard Moser,Donald
Spickler and Steven West.Staff:Director;Robert C.Arch,
Associate Planners;Timothy A.Lung,Lisa Kelly Pietro,Edward
Schreiber and Eric Seifarth,and Secretary,Janet L.Walkley.
Absent was Ex-Officio Ronald L.Bowers.
CALL TO ORDER:
The meeting was called to order by the Chairman at 7:00 P.M.
ELECTION OF OFFICERS:
Mr.Zombro made a motion to nominate Bertrand Iseminger as
Chairman of the Planning Commission.Seconded by Mrs.Johnson.
Mr.Zombro made a motion to close the nominations for Chairman.
Seconded by Mrs.Johnson.So ordered.Mr.Iseminger will be
Chairman of the Planning Commission beginning June 1,1992.
Mr.Iseminger made a motion to nominate Donald Zombro as Vice-
Chairman of the Planning Commission.Seconded by Mr.Moser.Mr.
Iseminger made a motion to close the nominations for Vice-
Chairman.Seconded by Mrs.Johnson.So ordered.Mr.Zombro
will be Vice-Chairman of the Planning Commission beginning
June 1,1992.
MINUTES:
Mr.Iseminger noted that the minutes of the April 6,1992 meeting
should reflect that he turned the meeting over to Steve West for
the Alvey Mowen variance request.
151
Mr.Moser made a motion to adopt the minutes as corrected
April 6,1992 regular meeting.Seconded by Mrs.Johnson.
ordered.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS:
Menno Martin Subdivision:
for the
So
Mrs.Pietro reminded the Commission of previous discussion
regarding the Menno Martin subdivision that occurred during the
April meeting.Mrs.Pietro distributed a letter received from
Mr.William Wantz to all Commission members.
Mr.William Wantz,Attorney for Mr.Martin,stated that during a
field visit with the County Engineer,it was not noted as to
whether the County would require 50 feet versus 40 feet for the
right-of-way.Mr.Wantz added that the centerline for the
Maugans Avenue extension should be determined prior to requiring
Mr.Martin to dedicate 50 feet to the County.
After a discussion,Mr.Iseminger made a motion to grant
preliminary and final plat approval conditional on the statement
that was included in Mr.Wantz's letter be included on the
subdivision plat.Seconded by Mr.West.So ordered.
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NEW BUSINESS:
Variances:
Greg Pittinger and Jeffrey Renner:
Mrs.Pietro presented the variance request for Greg Pittinger and
Jeffrey Renner.The site is located along the east side of Da
Wrong Lane just east of the Downsville Pike.A private right-of-
way which serves three existing dwellings will serve the
property.Zoning is Agricultural.The owners are proposing to
create 2 1.5 acre lots from their 3 acre parcel.The variance is
being requested from Section 405.11.B which states that
subdivided lots have public road frontage.After a brief
discussion,Mr.Iseminger suggested that the 10-year family
member statement be added to the plat.Mr.West made a motion to
grant the variance request with the condition that the 10-year
family member statement be added to the plan.Seconded by Mrs.
Johnson.So ordered.
Dwayne and Cheryl Gossard:
Mr.Schreiber informed Commission members that the variance
request for the Gossards has been withdrawn from this evening's
agenda.
Lloyd and Mary Emswiler:
Mr.Schreiber presented the variance request for Lloyd and Mary
Emswiler.The site is located along the south side of Lehmans
Mill Road.The owners are proposing to create a 1.6 acre lot and
convey it to an immediate family member.The variance is being
requested from Section 405.11.B of the Subdivision Ordinance
which states that lots for a family member without public road
frontage shall front on an existing lane.Mr.Schreiber noted
that he suggested to the Emswilers that the 1.6 acre lot could be
created with a fee-simple panhandle,less than 400 feet in length
and 25 feet in width,with fee-.simple frontage.He added that
with that proposal,the Emswilers would not be required to sign
the 10-year family member statement,the proposed lot would have
its own frontage,and the lot in front of the proposed lot
wouldn't be incumbered.After a discussion,Mr.Iseminger made a
motion to grant the variance request.Seconded by Mr.Moser.So
ordered.
Geraldine Rogers:
Mr.Schreiber presented the variance request for Geraldine
Rogers.The site is located along the east side of Herman Myers
Road.The applicant is proposing to create a 4 acre lot for a
family member without public road frontage and without it
fronting on an existing lane.The variance is being requested
from Section 405.1l.B which states that lots for immediate family
members without public road frontage shall front on an existing
lane or right-of-way.The 10-year family member statement has
been added to the plan.Mrs.Johnson made a motion to grant the
variance request.Seconded by Mr.Moser.So ordered.
Subdivisions:
Wildflower Meadows:
Mrs.Pietro presented the preliminary and final subdivision plat
for Wildflower Meadows,lots 5 through 11.The subject site is
located along the east side of St.Pauls Road just north of
Maryland Route 494.Zoning is Agricultural.The owner is
proposing to create 7 residential lots with sizes ranging from
.92 to 2.2 acres.Access will be via St.Pauls Road.Individual
wells and septic systems will serve the lots.All agency
approvals have been received.Mr.Moser made a motion to grant
preliminary and final plat approval.Seconded by Mr.Spickler.
So ordered.
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Robinwood Medical Campus:
Mr.Lung presented the preliminary plat and site plan for the
Robinwood Medical Campus,Lot 1.Total acreage of the campus is
105 acres.The site is located along the north side of Robinwood
Drive just east of Mt.Aetna Road and is zoned RS.An appeal for
a Special Exception to establish a medical mall on this property
was approved on October 11,1991 with conditions being for
specific uses and that the Appeals Board has the authority to
hold additional hearings if the approved concept plan is deviated
from.This plan is for the first phase of the medical mall and
will consist of one building to house medical offices and labs
along with outpatient services.The building will contain
140,000 square feet on a 17.03 acre lot.Landscaping is
superlative.Stormwater management will be handled on site with
a stormwater management pond that will be owned and maintained by
the Hospital Association.Access to the site will be off
Robinwood Drive via a new County owned and maintained street to
be called Wellness Way.The Engineering Department is requiring
a traffic study be prepared during review of Phase 2.Public
sewer is available to the site via an existing 10 inch force main
that comes from the Hagerstown Junior College pumping station.A
new sewer line will be constructed in Wellness Way along with a
pumping station.This infrastructure will be designed and
inspected by the Water Pollution Control with private ownership.
A recent policy has been adopted by the Mayor and Council that
any sewer allocation over 5,000 gallons be approved by the Mayor
and Council prior to issuance of permits.Public water is
available via a proposed extension of an existing 16 inch water
main located in Mt.Aetna Road.The extension of this main will
ultimately be part of a new loop system to serve the easter part
of Hagerstown.Written approval from the Water Department is
pending due to finalization of an agreement between the Elks Club
and the Water Department for an easement across the Elks'
property.The applicant is requesting that the Planning
Commission grant preliminary plat and site plan approval
conditional upon receipt of all written agency approvals and
grant the staff the authority to approve the final plat in house.
Mr.Iseminger made a motion to grant preliminary subdivision plat
and site plan approval conditioned on receipt of agency
approvals,that the sewer allocation be approved by the Mayor and
Council,a traffic study be conducted for Phase 2 and to give the
staff the authority to approve the final plat in house.Seconded
by Mr.Moser.So ordered.
Agricultural Land Preservation District Applications:
Samuel J.Winters,Jr.AD-92-2:
The Winters farm lies along both sides of Maryland Route 66,3/8
of a mile south of its intersection with Maryland Route 64.The
farm consists of 175 acres with 96%Class I,II and III soils.
Mr.Spickler made a motion to recommend to the County
Commissioners that the Winters farm be included in the
Agricultural Land Preservation Program since it's consistent with
the Comprehensive Plan.Seconded by Mr.Moser.So ordered.
Samuel J.and Barbara D.Winters AD-92-3:
The Winters farm is located along the west side of Maryland Route
66,3/4 of a mile south of its intersection with Maryland Route
64.The farm consists of 57.09 acres and has 89%Class I,II and
III soils.The farm is contiguous with AD-92-2.Mr.Spickler
made a motion to recommend to the Commissioners that the Winters
farm be included in the Agricultural Land Preservation Program
since its consistent with the Comprehensive Plan.Seconded by
Mr.Moser.So ordered.
153
154
Ralph W.and Patricia A.Shank AD-92-4:
The Shank farm lies along the south side of Wagaman Road,
1/3 mile east of its intersection with Maryland Route 65.The
farm consists of 167.5 acres and has 67.55 Class I,II and III
soils.Mr.Spickler made a motion to recommend to the County
Commissioners that the Shank farm be included in the Agricultural
Land Preservation Program since its consistent with the
Comprehensive Plan.Seconded by Mr.Moser.So ordered.
Ralph W.and Patricia A.Shank AD-92-5:
The Shank farm lies 600 feet east of Maryland Route 65,1/2 miles
south of Funkstown.The farm consists of 115.9 acres and has 87%
Class I,II and III soils.Mr.Spickler made a motion to
recommend to the County Commissioners that the Shank farm be
included in the Agricultural Land Preservation Program since its
consistent with the Comprehensive Plan.Seconded by Mr.Moser.
So ordered.Mr.Iseminger instructed the staff to investigate
turn-around provisions for the neighboring subdivisions.
Ralph W.Shank,Jr.and Teresa A.Shank AD-92-6:
The Shank farm lies along the north side of Wagaman Road,3/4
miles south of Funkstown.The farm consists of 32.10 acres and
has 62%qualifying soils and is contiguous to AD-92-4.Mr.
Spickler made a motion to recommend to the County Commissioners
that the Shank farm be included in the Agricultural Land
~reservation Program since its consistent with the Comprehensive
Plan.Seconded by Mr.Moser.So ordered.
Mr.Seifarth updated Commission members on the request for 75%of
the agricultural transfer tax.After a discussion,Commission
members requested Mr.Seifarth to send a letter to the State
asking why Washington County has not become certified.
Preliminary Consultations:
North Village Development Company,Inc.
The written summary for North Village Development Company was
presented to the Commission with nothing to be added by the
staff.No action was taken by the Commission.
OTHER BUSINESS:
Septic Easement for Rodney Sowers:
Mr.Schreiber informed Commission members that a request has been
received from Rodney Sowers to create a lot without anyon-site
septic reserve area.In lieu of an on-site septic system,Mr.
Sowers is proposing that a 10,000 square foot septic reserve area
be placed on the remaining lands from which this lot is being
created.In this particular case,the remaining lands is
currently owned and farmed by his father.Mr.Spickler suggested
that additional land be conveyed so the septic area is within the
approved lot.After a discussion between Commission members and
Mr.Sowers,Mr.Sowers withdrew his request for septic easement.
No action was taken by the Commission.
Comprehensive Plan for the City of Hagerstown:
The Commission received a copy of the revised Comprehensive
Development Plan for the City of Hagerstown for its information.
No action was taken by the Commission.
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Ewing Oil Highway Interchange Setback Determination:
Mr.Arch informed Commission members that a request has been
received to determine if additional setbacks or buffers will be
required for a commercial use to be located along Maryland Route
65.After a brief discussion,Mr.West made a motion that no
additional setbacks or buffers are required.Seconded by Mr.
Spickler.So ordered.
Rezoning Cases:
William Dutton RZ-92-1:
After consideration of the testimony during the public hearing,
written comments received during the 10-day comment period,and
staff reports,Mr.West made a motion to recommend to the County
Commissioners that RZ-92-1 be approved.The Planning
Commission's approval was based on a finding of a change in the
characterof the neighborhood.Along with this recommendation,
the Commission is requesting that the County Commissioners give
consideration to Section 27.4 of the Washington County Zoning
Ordinance on specifics relative to setbacks,screening,etc.
Seconded by Mr.Spickler.Mr.Iseminger abstained.So ordered .
Kenneth Clements Rz-92-2:
After consideration of the testimony during the public hearing,
written comments received during the 10-day comment period,and
staff reports,Mr.West made a motion to recommend to the County
Commissioners that RZ-92-2 be approved.The Planning
Commission's approval was based on a finding of a change in the
character of the neighborhood.Seconded by Mr.Spickler.On a
call for the vote,Mrs.Johnson and Mr.Moser voted no;and Mr.
Iseminger,Mr.Spickler and Mr.West voted yes.So ordered.
Washington County Planning Commission RZ-92-5:
After consideration of the testimony during the public hearing,
written comments received during the lO-day comment period,and
staff reports,Mr.Spickler made a motion to recommend to the
County Commissioners that RZ-92-5 be approved.Seconded by Mr.
Iseminger.So ordered.
Washington County Planning Commission RZ-92-5:
After consideration of the testimony during the public hearing,
written comments received during the 10-day comment period,and
staff reports,Mr.Spickler made a motion to recommend to the
County Commissioners that RZ-92-5 be withdrawn at this time.
This action was predicated upon the comments by both the County
Commissioners and Planning Commission during the public hearing
which appeared to indicate a desire to allow more flexibility and
options that the current text amendment proposes.The Planning
Commission is recommending that the staff revisit this recycling
issue and develop an alternative amendment.Seconded by Mr.
Iseminger.So ordered.
ADJOURNMENT:
There being no further business,the meeting adjourned at
9:10 P.M.
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WASHINGTON COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION
REGULAR MEETING -JUNE 1,1991
The Washington County Planning Commission held its regular
monthly meeting on Monday,June 1,1991 in the first floor
conference room of the County Administration Building.
Members present were:Chairman;Bertrand L.Iseminger,Vice-
Chairman;Donald E.Zombro,EX-Officio;Ronald L.Bowers,Carol
Johnson,Donald Spickler and Steven West.Staff:Director;
Robert C.Arch,Senior Planner;Stephen T.Goodrich,Associate
Planners;Timothy A.Lung and Edward Schreiber and Secretary,
Janet L.Walkley.Bernard Moser was absent.
CALL TO ORDER:
The meeting was called to order by the Chairman at 7:00 P.M.
MINUTES:
Mr.Zombro made a motion to adopt the minutes of the May 4,1992
regular meeting as written.Seconded by Mr.Spickler.So
ordered.
NEW BUSINESS:
Variances:
Andrew Birnbaum:
Mr.Schreiber presented the variance request for Andrew Birnbaum.
The site is located along the west side of Mt.Briar Road.The
variance is being requested from Section 405.11.G.5 of the
Subdivision Ordinance which states that all panhandles shall not
exceed 400 feet in length.The applicant is proposing to create
a 5 acre agricultural lot via the simplified plat process to be
served by a 1000 foot panhandle.Mr.Schlossberg made a
presentation as to why the applicants are requesting the
variance.Mr.Zombro made a motion to grant the variance
request.Seconded by Mr.Bowers.Mrs.Johnson abstained.So
ordered.
Subdivisions:
Roy Harnish:
Mr.Goodrich presented the preliminary and final subdivision plat
for Roy Harnish.The site is located along the south side of
Maugans Avenue just west of I-81.The applicant is proposing to
create a 2.5 acre lot with 1.1 acres remaining.A portion of the
existing parking lot for the Family Time Restaurant on lot #1
will be located on the remaining lands.The site is served by
public water and sewer.Landscaping and signs are existing.The
staff informed the Commission that any development on the
remaining lands,other than residential,will be restricted due
to the required buffers in the Highway Interchange zoning
district.All agency approvals have been received.Mr.West
made a motion to grant preliminary and final plat approval.
Seconded by Mrs.Johnson.So ordered.
South Pointe:
Mr.Goodrich pr~sented .the final plat for South Pointe Phase I
Block A.,.1,9t.s ..l through 46,Blpck D lots 1 through 50 and Block H
lots 1 through 30.The site is located along the north side of
East Oak Ridge Drive.The property was rezoned to PUD in
May 1990.The Planning Commission approved the final development
plan in February 1992.These proposed sections will consist of
one and two-story townhouses and single-family dwellings.Block
A includes the entrance road and 46 single-story townhouses,
Block D consists of 50 two-story townhouses and Block H consists
of 30 single-family lots for a total of 126 dwelling units.
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Public water and sewer will serve the property.The developer is
requesting that the staff be granted the authority to approve the
final plat once all agency approvals have been received.
Approvals are outstanding from the Engineering Department,Water
Department and Water pollution control regarding many technical
issues and a few which may require modifications to the plan.
Mr.Zombro made a motion to grant the staff the authority to
approve the final plat once all agency approvals have been
received.Seconded by Mr.Spickler.So ordered.
Mr.Bowers suggested that a status report be given during the
Commission's regular meeting to update members on agency comments
during the course of this development.
Preliminary Consultations:
Clean Rock Industries
Highway Interchange Determination:
Mr.Arch informed members that Fred Papa,consultant for the
developer,is requesting that the Commission review the site plan
for Clean Rock Industries during this meeting.He added that
several items need to be determined;especially if the proposal
is consistent with the Solid Waste Management Plan for Washington
County.The County Commissioners requested a 30 day extension
which has been granted by the Maryland Department of the
Environment in order to determine consistency with the Solid
Waste Management Plan.
Mr.Iseminger informed Mr.Papa that the Commission is hesitant
in adding items to the agenda especially for caseS which the
Commission has not received items prior to the meeting.Mr.
Spickler made a motion not to accept the site plan for Clean Rock
Industries at this time.Seconded by Mrs.Johnson.So ordered.
The written summary of the preliminary consultation for Clean
Rock Industries was presented to the Commission with nothing
being added by the staff.Mr.Arch informed members that a
determination needs to be made regarding the setback requirements
since the property is located in the Highway Interchange zoning
district.The similar use for the proposed facility would fall
within the requirements of the Industrial Restricted zoning
district.The "IR"district requires 50 foot front yard
setbacks,25 foot side and rear yard setbacks and a 75 foot
buffer when adjacent to a dwelling.The proposed site plan
appears to be in conformance with those setbacks.The Planning
Commission has the authority to establish additional setbacks.
Mr.Iseminger stated,in his opinion,the proposed facility will
not fall under the requirements of the "IR"district.In his
opinion,the facility would be considered a Special Exception
under the "IG"district.Mr.Prodonovich said the Zoning
Ordinance indicates that the uses permitted in the Highway
Interchange district are the same as the Business Local,Business
General and the Industrial Restricted districts.Based on the
modifications of the process by Clean Rock Industries,it was
determined that the proposed processing facility fell under a
Principle Permitted Use in the "IR"district.
Mr.Bowers asked what the process of Clean Rock is and Mr.
Richard Jamison briefly described what Clean Rock Industries
does.Mr.Bowers submitted a tape on a landfill conversion which
was aired on This Olde House.
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Mr.Iseminger said the Commissioners are deliberating on whether
or not the proposal is in conformance with the Solid Waste
Management Plan.He added,in his opinion,he would like the
determination by the Commissioners prior to making a decision on
additional setbacks.Mr.West added that the Planning Commission
reserves the right to require additional setbacks once the County
Commissioners determines if the proposal is consistent with the
Solid Waste Management Plan.
Mr.West made a motion to postpone action on the determination of
setbacks in the Highway Interchange districts pending completion
of the information being sought by the County Commissioners on
the consistency of the Solid Waste Management Plan.Seconded by
Mrs.Johnson.So ordered.
OTHER BUSINESS:
Hazardous Waste Amendment RZ-92-8:
Mr.Iseminger stated that Commission members just received
additional information regarding the proposed amendment.By
consensus,the recommendation on the hazardous waste amendment
will be deferred to a special meeting so Commission members can
review the information just received.The Commission will hold a
Special Meeting on Monday June 8,1992 at 5:30 P.M.to make a
recommendation to the Commissioners on the proposed hazardous
waste amendment.
Letter from Gerald Cump -Woodbridge Section A:
Mr.Lung informed members that Mr.Cump is requesting preliminary
plat approval for a 154 lot single-family subdivision which is
located on the northeast side of Robinwood Drive called
Woodbridge Section A.The preliminary plat was originally
submitted in November 1990.To this date,approvals have been
received from the Health Department,Hagerstown Water Department,
Hagerstown Water Pollution Control,Soil Conservation,Permits
and Inspections,and comments from the Planning Department staff.
The County Engineer's approval is outstanding.Through November
of 1991,the County Engineer was reviewing this project for
stormwater management based on a system that would handle the
stormwater on-site for Sections A and B of Woodbridge.The
County Engineer has not approved the design of the proposed on-
site stormwater management system for Section A or B.Since
1991,the County Engineer has been exploring the possibility of a
regional stormwater management system to handle runoff for a
number of proposed developments in the Youngstoun/Hagerstown
Junior College/Robinwood Drive area.The Woodbridge development
is included in the regional plan.The County Engineer was taking
in consideration past stormwater management experiences in the
County and is his opinion the best way to handle stormwater
management in this area is a regional approach rather than
numerous,small facilities that the County would be responsible
for maintaining.Based on the County's preliminary design,the
regional facility would involve the cooperation of at least three
developers in the area (Mr.Sheedy -developer of Woodbridge;Mr.
Valentine -developer of Kings Crest PUD and Mr.Shaool -
developer of a proposed development lying behind Black Rock
Estates).The County Engineer has met with all the parties
involved to discuss the proposal,however,there are still
agreements and issues between the developers and the County which
need to be resolved.The County Administrator and Commissioners
are aware of the proposed regional stormwater management
facility.Mr.Sheedy is requesting that the Planning Commission
approve the plat for Woodbridge without the County Engineer's
approval.The staff is recommending that no action specific to
this application be taken because of the regional concern for
stormwater management in this area.The Commission may want to
take some action to endorse the County Engineer's proposal in
order to help encourage the developers to participate in the
regional facility.
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Mr.West asked what the status of the other projects are.Mr.
Lung stated that the Commission approved a PUD concept plan for
Kings Crest.The staff is currently reviewing the plan at the
preliminary development plan stage.No comments have been
received from the County Engineer regarding stormwater
management.Mr.Shaool's development is in the preliminary
stages;a preliminary consultation has not been held.
Mr.Sheedy approached the Commission and explained why he is not
willing to participate in the regional stormwater management
facility.
After a discussion,it was decided that this issue be brought up
during the Commissioners meeting on June 2,1992 with the County
Engineer being present to answer questions.The status of that
meeting will be brought to the Planning Commission during its
Special Meeting on June 8,1992.
Julian Oliver Proposed Concept Plan -Common Septic System:
Mr.Lung informed Commission members that Julian Oliver is
requesting the review of a proposed development which is located
along the west side of St.Pauls Road between Route 40 and I-70
which consists of 111 acres.Zoning is Agriculture.Mr.Oliver
is proposing to create 72 single-family lots to be served by
internal roads and individual accesses along St.Pauls Road.
Approximately 50 lots located on the east side of the property
would have individual wells and on-site septic systems.The
other 22 lots to the west side of the property would have
individual wells but and would utilize a common septic area.
Septage would be collected by an 8 inch gravity collector line
system flowing into a large septic tank area then pumped into the
common septic field.The Health Department believes this type of
system would function environmentally the same as individual on-
lot septic systems.This type of system is addressed in the
County's On-Site Sewage Disposal Ordinance making it a viable
system.The Health Department has indicated that based on the
soil types in the reserve area,this type of system could work,
however,the design would be complicated and costly.Nothing to
this scale has been done in Washington County before.The County
Health Department and Maryland Department of the Environment
would be involved in the regulatory process.Under the criteria
of the County's Water and Sewerage Plan,this system would be
considered a community sewage system and would require an
amendment to the Water and Sewerage Plan to establish a service
area and priority designation.Based on Appendix D of the Water
and Sewerage plan,which is a policy for interim and permanent
community water and sewerage systems,the Sanitary District would
be responsible to own and operate the system.From a planning
standpoint,the staff is concerned that approval of this type of
concept could possibly set a precedent for other areas that may
tend to encourage development on land that could not be developed
to such a density with individual septic systems.Some
jurisdictions are considering common septic systems with cluster
plans.In cluster subdivisions,the same number of dwelling
units are allowed on much smaller lots with the remaining lands
reserved for agricultural purposes or open space.Some type of
community water system would also be necessary for this type of
development.After a discussion,the Planning Commission
determined that this proposed development would not be
appropriate,however,possibilities for alternative forms of
development may exist for this property that would be balanced
with preservation of the rural character and agriculturally
productive land.The Commission directed the staff to work with
the developer.
Leroy Myers Demolition Permit:
The Commission was informed that this demolition permit has been
withdrawn from this evening's agenda.
Teamsters Local Office Building
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Highway Interchange Determination:
Mr.Lung informed Commission members that a preliminary plat/site
plan for the Teamsters Local Office building has been received.
The site is located in the Cross Creek development along the east
side of Maryland Route 65.Zoning is Highway Interchange.The
proposed office building will be located on a new 2 acre lot.
Access to the property will be via Battlecreek Boulevard.The
Highway Interchange section of the Zoning Ordinance provides for
a 75 foot screened buffer when commercial development is located
adjacent to residential uses.This section also gives the
Planning Commission the authority to establish additional
setbacks and other requirements where deemed appropriate.With
this proposal,a 75 foot buffer is required along the northern
property line due to an adjacent dwelling located to the north.
The developer is proposing to provide vegetative screened
planting between the office building and property line.The
staff is of the opinion that the 75 foot buffer being provided
with the screen planting is adequate.The Zoning Administrator
and Planning staff is of the opinion that the stormwater
management pond be fenced for safety purposes.The Engineering
Department's standards do not require fencing for this pond,
however,with the pond being located approximately 20 feet from a
residential dwelling;the staff is of the opinion that it should
be fenced for safety purposes.Mr.Lung noted that there are
some existing trees and a hedge row along the northern property
line.The plan does not indicate if this is to remain.
Mr.Hilton Smith,developer of the site,requested preliminary
plat/site plan be reviewed for approval at this time.Mr.Zombro
made a motion that the preliminary plat/site plan for Teamsters
Local Office building be presented at this time.Seconded by Mr.
Bowers.So ordered.
Mr.Lung presented the preliminary plat/site plan for the
Teamsters Local Office Building to be located on a new lot
designated as lot #2.The developer is proposing to construct an
80'x 30'office building with provisions for future expansion to
double the size.The future expansion will require an additional
site plan prior to construction.Parking is provided to the east
with access off Battlecreek Boulevard.The property will be
served by public water and sewer.The Maryland State Highway
Administration has approved the subdivision and site plan with no
direct access onto Maryland Route 65.The Zoning Administrator
has indicated that a handicap sign detail needs to be added to
the site plan.The trees in the buffer yard need to be moved one
foot above the 100 foot flood elevation.The staff informed the
Commission that this subdivision will create two additional lots
that will require future site plans.Lot #3 has been designed
with its only means of access via a 50 foot right-of-way provided
across lot #2.This access may be adequate for most type uses,
however,there could be some high traffic generating uses that
may not be permitted on lot #3 due to its access limitations.
Another access along Battlecreek Boulevard would probably not be
acceptable to the County Engineer since it's too close to the
intersection with Maryland Route 65.
Mr.Iseminger stated that it was his opinion that the developer
work out the details on the planting and fence with the Planning
staff regarding the stormwater management facility.
Regarding the fencing of the stormwater management pond,Mr.
Smith stated that he thought a chain link fence would detract
from the appearance of the site,however,he would comply if
asked to.
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Mr.Prodonovich explained his reasoning for a fence around the
stormwater management pond and stated that there are alternatives
to a chain link fence.He also recommended that the proposed
white pine screen planting be replaced with a more upright and
compact type of evergreen tree.The trees must be a minimum of 6
feet in height at the time of planting.
Mr.Smith and his consultant,Mr.Weikert,both stated that the
existing tree line and hedge row along the northern property line
would not be disturbed and would remain.
Following a discussion,Mr.Bowers made a motion to grant
preliminary plat/site plan approval with the conditions and
stipulations outlined by the staff and that the Planning
Commission reserves the right to require the fencing of the
stormwater management pond in the future if warranted by future
development.The staff was given the authority to approve the
final plat.Seconded by Mr.West.So ordered.
ADJOURNMENT:
There being no further business,the meeting adjourned at
9:30 P.M.
an
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WASHINGTON COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION
SPECIAL MEETING -JUNE 8,1992
The Washington County Planning Commission held a special meeting
on Monday,June 8,1992 in the first floor conference room of the
County Administration Building.
Members present were:Chairman;Bertrand L.Iseminger,Vice-
Chairman;Donald E.Zombro,Ex-Officio;Ronald L.Bowers,Carol
Johnson,and Steven West.Staff:Director;Robert C.Arch and
Secretary,Janet L.Walkley.Bernard Moser and Donald Spickler
were absent.
CALL TO ORDER:
The meeting was called to order by the Chairman at 5:30 P.M.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS:
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RZ-92-8 Hazardous Waste Amendment:
.Mr.Iseminger informed the audience that this isa public meeting
and not a public hearing and no additional testimony will be
·taken regarding the proposed amendment.
Mr.Arch stated that Commission members received copies of the
staff reports.He added that the proposed amendment addresses
three sections of the Zoning Ordinance;Definitions,General
Provisions and Specific Provisions.He added that the sections
·of the specific zoning classifications which deal with storage
conflict with the language in the General Provisions section.
This needs to be clarified so that the language in both section
agrees.
Mr.Ralph France,County Attorney,said the wording in Sections
13.7,14.7 and 15.5 are identical.He recommended adding the
words "in kilns on site"after the word "incineration"to the
sentence;"Facilities or structures for the purpose of receiving,
storing,or processing hazardous waste or controlled hazardous
substances for the purpose of incineration (in kilns on site)are
prohibited."In Mr.France's opinion,the change is not
substantial and will not warrant an additional public hearing.
After a discussion by the Commission,Mr.West made a motion to
recommend to the County Commissioners that rezoning case RZ-92-8
be approved with the wording as recommended by the County
Attorney since the amendments are in the best interest of the
County and meet the needs of the Comprehensive Plan for
Washington County.Seconded by Mrs.Johnson.Mr.Bowers
abstained.So ordered.It is being noted that Mr.Iseminger
voted in favor of the amendment.
Woodbridge Section A:
Mr.Arch reminded the Commission that Mr.Dan Sheedy made a
request that the Commission approve Section A of Woodbridge
independent of the development of the regional stormwater
management pond.He added that the Commission will not be able
to act on this requeBt at this time.The Board of County
Commissioners is giving their blessing to Mr.Sheedy to proceed
as an individual with the condition that the County will not take
over the stormwater management pond until a determination has
been made regarding the regional stormwater management facility.
The County Engineer has not reviewed the stormwater management
facility for Section A of Woodbridge on an individual basis at
this time.No action was taken by the Commission.
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WASHINGTON COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION
WORKSHOP MEETING -JUNE 22,1992
The Washington County Planning Commission held a workshop meeting
on Monday,June 22,1992 in the first floor conference room of
the County Administration Building to discuss the Agricultural
Land Preservation Certification for Washington County.
Members present were:Chairman;Bertrand L.Iseminger,Carol
Johnson.Planning staff:Director;Robert C.Arch,Senior
Planner;Stephen T.Goodrich and Associate Planner,Eric
Seifarth.Also present were Leonard Lowry,Charles Wiles and
Jere De Baugh ~Washington County Agricultural Advisory Board,Joe
Tassone and Pat Goucher -Maryland Office of Planning and Paul
Scheidt and Iva Frantz -Maryland Agricultural Land Preservation
Foundation.
CALL TO ORDER:
The meeting was called to order by the Chairman at 5:30 P.M.
The workshop opened with Joe Tassone giving a summary of the two
main reasons why Washington County has not yet been certified to
receive a 75%of the Agricultural Transfer Tax.First,the
Maryland Office of Planning questioned whether or not our Program
.would be effective in preserving Agricultural land.The second
outstanding issue deal with targeting priority areas for
preservation.The Maryland Office of Planning feels that we have
not effectively done this.Enclosed is an outline which
describes these two areas in greater detail.
Mr.Tassone pointed out that while our Comprehensive Plan lists
preserving Agricultural land as one of our goals,we need to show
the steps we will be taking to actually preserve Agricultural
land.He went on to say that the Maryland Office of Planning has
observed Agricultural land preservation efforts in the metro
counties.They had to define specific areas for preservation and
then focus their resources on those defined areas.Washington
County has not done that.Mr.Tassone said that the State spends
money on counties they think will be successful in preserving
Agricultural land.
Mr.Iseminger countered by saying that it is tough for Washington
County to define specific preservation areas since we are still
basically a rural county.All our farmland is important.Mr.
Iseminger stated that he feels that we went well beyond the scope
of what should be expected for certification.What we really
need is money for our Program.Mr.DeBaugh added that we need to
act now and not wait until development gets bad enough.
Mr.Arch pointed out that we are trying to encourage the
preservation of farming and not just preservation of farmland.
We need economic incentives to keep people farming.
After other discussions,Mr.Iseminger stated that the Maryland
Office of Planning has a strong commitment from Washington County
to wisely use additional Agricultural Transfer Tax money we
receive as a result of certification.Mr.Tassone said that our
commitment should include long-term steps we plan to take and how
those steps relate back to our Comprehensive Plan.In addition,
we need to have the mechanism in place to preserve Agricultural
land.Mr.Seifarth stated that in the next week Washington
County would purchase it's first easement thereby establishing
the necessary mechanisms.
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NEW BUSINESS:
Rubble Landfill Conversion to Paving Tape:
The Commission reviewed the tape presented by Vinny Iuliano of
Clean Rock Industries and also a program which aired on "This
Olde House".No action was taken by the Commission.
Meeting Date -Certification of Agricultural Land Preservation:
The Commission will hold a special meeting to discuss the
certification of Agricultural Land Preservation with
representatives of the Maryland Office of Planning on Monday,
June 22,1992 at 5:30 P.M.
ADJOURNMENT:
There being no further business,the meeting adjourned at
6:30 P.M.
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WASHINGTON COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION
REGULAR MEETING -JULY 13,1992
The Washington County Planning Commission held its regular
monthly meeting on Monday,July 13,1992 in the first floor
conference room of the County Administration Building.
Members present were:Chairman;Bertrand L.Iseminger,Vice-
Chairman;Donald E.Zombro,EX-Officio;Ronald L.Bowers,Bernard
Moser,and Donald Spickler.Staff:Director;Robert C.Arch,
Senior Planner;Stephen T.Goodrich,Associate Planners;Timothy
A.Lung,Lisa Kelly Pietro,Edward Schreiber and Secretary,Janet
L.Walkley.Absent were Carol Johnson and Steven West.
CALL TO ORDER:
The meeting was called to order by the Chairman at 7:00 P.M.
MINUTES:
Mr.Iseminger stated that the minutes of the June 1,1992 meeting
under the Hazardous Waste Amendment RZ-92-B it should state that
the Planning Commission just received additional information
which was submitted during the 10-day comment period as well as
recent receipt of the Staff Analysis.Mr.Zombro made a motion
to adopt the minutes of the June 1,1992 regular meeting as
revised.Seconded by Mr.Moser.So ordered.
Mr.Zombro made a motion to adopt the minutes of the June 8,1992
special meeting as written.Seconded by Mr.Bowers.So ordered.
Mr.Moser stated that he should be listed as being present for
the June 22,1992 workshop meeting.Mr.Moser made a motion to
adopt the minutes as revised for the June 22,1992 workshop
meeting.Seconded by Mr.Zombro.So ordered.
NEW BUSINESS:
Variances:
Lowell and Linda Harty:
Mrs.Pietro presented the variance request for Lowell and Linda
Harty.The site is located along the north side of Cascade Road.
Zoning is Rural Residential.The owners are proposing to create
2 single-family lots and convey them to immediate family members
without the required frontage on an existing private lane.
Proposed lot sizes will be 1.8 acres.The variance is being
requested from Section 405.11.B.l of the Subdivision Ordinance
which states that land may be conveyed to immediate family
members,however,the subdivided lots must front on a private
road or right-of-way existing at the time of the original
parcel's acquisition by the current owner.Mr.Bowers made a
motion to grant the variance.Seconded by Mr.Zombro.So
ordered.
Steven Kendle:
Mr.Schreiber presented the variance request for Steven Kendle.
The site is located along the south side of Cool Hollow Road.
Zoning is Agricultural.The owner is proposing to create a 3.2
acre lot to be served by a 1500 foot long panhandle.The new lot
will be conveyed to an immediate family member.The variance is
being requested from Section 405.1l.G.5 of the Subdivision
Ordinance which states that panhandles shall not exceed 400 feet
in length.Mr.Zombro made a motion to grant the variance.
Seconded by Mr.Bowers.So ordered.
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Hugh Snively:
Mr.Schreiber presented the variance request for Hugh Snively.
The site is located along the south side of U.S.Route 40,
2000 feet of the Conococheague Creek.zoning is Agricultural.
The owner is proposing to create a 30 acre lot to be served by a
1000 foot long panhandle.The variance is being requested from
Section 405.ll.G.5 of the Subdivision Ordinance which states that
panhandles shall not exceed 400 feet in length.Mr.Moser made a
motion to grant the variance request.Seconded by Mr.Spickler.
So ordered.
Ewing Food Lion:
Mr.Schreiber presented the variance request for Ewing Food Lion.
The site is located along the east side of Eastern Boulevard,
1000 feet south of Maryland Route 64.The variance is being
requested from Section 405.11.E which states that no lot shall be
divided by a municipal boundary.The City of Hagerstown has been
contacted and has no problem with the variance request.After a
discussion,Mr.Spickler made a motion to grant the variance
request based on receipt of a written response from the City of
Hagerstown.Seconded by Mr.Bowers.So ordered.
Site Plans:
Ewing Food Lion:
Mr.Schreiber presented the preliminary and final subdivision
plat and site plan for Ewing Food Lion.The site is located
along the east side of Eastern Boulevard.The applicant is
proposing to create 4 lots.Lots 1 and 2 have no plans for
development at this time,lot 3 will house the Food Lion Grocery
Store and lot 4 will be for the stormwater management pond.
Total area of the subdivision is 7.62 acres.Public water and
sewer will serve the site.Eastern Boulevard is classified as a
Minor Arterial roadway by the County's Highway Plan.The staff
is requesting an additional 10 foot right-of-way along the
frontage for future widening.The staff is also requesting an
additional 50 foot right-of-way from the centerline of Jefferson
Boulevard and the City of Hagerstown is requesting 30 foot right-
of-way from centerline along Diamond Drive.As stated
previously,lot #3 will house the Food Lion Grocery Store and
encompasses 3.12 acres.No access is permitted onto Maryland
Route 64.One access is proposed off Eastern Boulevard as well
as Diamond Drive.A total of 123 parking spaces are required by
the Zoning Ordinance,however,145 spaces are proposed.Ninety
percent maximum impervious area is proposed and required.
Building and pole mounted signs and lighting appear to be
adequate.The loading area is located to the rear of the site.
During a discussion,Commission members suggested that the truck
traffic should be out of the customer parking area.Mr.Zombro
made a motion to grant preliminary and final subdivision plat and
site plan approval conditional on the variance request being
approved by the City of Hagerstown.Seconded by Mr.Moser.So
ordered.
Conococheague Pre-Treatment Facility -
Washington County Sanitary District:
Mrs.Pietro presented the site plan for the Conococheague Pre-
Treatment Facility for the Washington County Sanitary District.
The site is located along the northwest side of Elliott Parkway
in the I-70 Industrial Park.The Sanitary District is proposing
to create a wastewater treatment facility on 30 acres to be
located directly behind its existing office building.The
existing stormwater management pond will handle the drainage from
this facility.Public water and sewer are existing on site and
will serve the new facility.No new landscaping is proposed for
the wastewater facility.An existing tree buffer surrounding the
property will remain.Lighting is proposed to be building and
pole mounted.A sign will be added to the existing domestic
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treatment plan sign where adequate space is available.
During site plan review,a portion of the building was determined
to be located in the 100-year floodplain.The Sanitary District
is in the process of getting the floodplain maps amended.Jim
Bishop with the Sanitary District stated that the Army Corp of
Engineers made a site visit and determined that no wetlands were
present.The document has been submitted to the Corp with
approval expected within the next two weeks.The delineation of
the floodplain will be changed on the maps once approval is
granted.
Mr.Zombro made a motion to grant site plan approval conditional
on the approval of the floodplain delineation.Seconded by Mr.
Spickler.So ordered.
Clean Rock Industries:
Please see attached copy of transcript.
Subdivisions:
North Village:
Mr.Schreiber presented the preliminary and final subdivision
plat for North Village lots 1 through 58.The site is located
along the north side of Maugans Avenue Extended.Zoning is
Residential Suburban.The owner is proposing to create 58 lots
qn 21.73 acres.Public water and sewer will serve the site.New
60 foot wide County maintained streets will be provided through
the development with curb and gutter being required.Sidewalks
are not being proposed.Verbal approval has been received from
the Health Department,conditional approval has been received
from the County Engineer,Sanitary District has conditionally
approved the subdivision yet construction drawings haven't been
approved.The City of Hagerstown has given verbal approval on
the water service.Mr.Spickler made a motion to grant
preliminary and final plat approval conditional on all agency
approvals.Seconded by Mr.Moser.So ordered.
John Martin:
Mr.Schreiber presented the preliminary and final subdivision
plat for John Martin,lots 2 through 5.The site is located
along the west side of Franks Run Road and the east side of
Maryland Route 64.Zoning is Agriculture.The owner is
proposing to create 4 residential lots with sizes ranging between
1.2 to 2.26 acres.Total area of the site is 7.5 acres.The
lots will be served by individual wells and septic systems.All
agency approvals have been received.Mr.Zombro made a motion to
grant preliminary and final plat approval.Seconded by Mr.
Moser.So ordered.
Hill-N-Dale Acres:
Mrs.Pietro presented the preliminary subdivision plat for
Hill-N-Dale Acres,lots 19 through 44.The site is located along
the west side of Resh Road and the north side of Mt.Tabor Road.
Zoning is Agricultural.The Water and Sewerage Plan was amended
in November 1991 to change the water classification from W-7 to
W-5.The developer is proposing to create 26 single-family lots
with sizes between .9 to 2 acres.Total area of the site is 43
acres.Access will be via Resh and Mt.Tabor Roads.Lot #36
will have its access onto Kiser Ridge Road.The lots will be
served by public water and individual septic systems.During a
discussion,Commission members had concerns with the access to
lot #36 with recommendation that lot #36's access be via the
interior street.Mr.Zombro made a motion to grant preliminary
plat approval.Seconded by Mr.Moser.So ordered.
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Ronald and Debra Ellis:
Mrs.Pietro presented the preliminary and final subdivision plat
for Ronald and Debra Ellis,lots I through 4.The site is
located along the west side of Porters town Road just south of its
intersection with Maryland Route 34.Zoning is Agricultural.
The owners are proposing to create 4 single-family lots with
sizes ranging from 2 to 4 acres.Total area of the site is 11.5
acres.The lots will be served by individual wells and septic
systems.All agency approvals have been received.
The subject property is located in the AO-3 Zone.Tree cover is
indicated on the plat and consists mainly of hardwood species.
Any tree cutting activity shall be done in accordance with
Section 20A.4 of the Zoning Ordinance.A discussion was held
regarding the Forest Conservation Act and the percentage of trees
that can be removed for construction and the percentage that
needs to be replanted after construction.During the discussion,
Commission members expressed concern regarding the removal of
trees along the western property line.Russ Townsely with Fox
and Associates stated that a note could be added to the plat
indicating that the trees along the western property line be
retained.
Mr.Spickler made a motion to grant preliminary and final plat
approval conditional on a note being added to the plat indicating
that trees along the western property line be retained and that
dwellings on lots 3 and 4 be located along the east side.
?econded by Mr.Bowers.So ordered.
Goodwyn Contractors:
Mrs.Pietro presented the preliminary and final subdivision plat
for Goodwyn Contractors,lots 1 through 3.The subject site is
located along the west side of Mt.Laurel Road.Zoning is
Agricultural.The owners are proposing to create 3 single-family
lots on 5 acres.Individual wells and septic systems will serve
the proposed lots.Access to the three lots will be via Mt.
Laurel Road.Lots 2 and 3 will be served by panhandles which
meet the requirements of the Subdivision Ordinance.All agency
approvals have been received.Mr.Zombro made a motion to grant
preliminary and final plat approval.Seconded by Mr.Moser.So
ordered.
Preliminary Consultations:
Kenneth Myers:
The written summary of the consultation was presented to the
Planning Commission with nothing be added by the staff.
Charles Lohman -Intensive Swine Operation:
The written summary of the consultation was presented to the
Planning Commission.The staff informed the Commission that
during the consultation,no recommendations for additional
requirements were made by the reviewing agencies and that the
proposed expansion meets all of the minimum building setbacks
established in Division IX.The County Extension Agent intends
to issue a letter stating that based on arrangements that Mr.
Lohman has made with other farmers,sufficient acreage is
available for the proper utilization of the manure which will be
generated by this facility.Waste Management Plans and Nutrient
Management Plans will be prepared for each of the receiving
farms.Planning Commission approval is requested as submitted
conditional upon receipt of a letter of recommendation of
approval by the Soil Conservation District,a signed Waste
Management Plan by Mr.Lohman,Nutrient Management/Waste
Management Plans for the receiving farms and letters from the
owners of the receiving farms being obtained.
After a discussion,Mr.Zombro made a motion to approve of the
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expansion of the intensive swine facility for Mr.Lohman
conditional on Nutrient Management/Waste Management Plans being
prepared and implemented for the receiving farms and the receipt
of an approval letter from the Soil Conservation District.
Seconded by Mr.Spickler.So ordered.
Agricultural Land Preservation District Applications:
Harry F.Kendle &Imogene A.Kendle AD-92-7:
Mr.Goodrich presented the Agricultural Land Preservation
District application for Harry and Imogene Kendle.The farm is
located along the north side of Beaver Creek Road,2 miles
southeast of Hagerstown.The farm consists of 85 acres and has
95.13%qualifying soils.This farm qualifies for the Program
under the State's definition of extraordinary Agricultural
capability since it's less than 100 acres.Mr.Spickler made a
motion to recommend to the County Commissioners that the Kendle
farm be included in the Agricultural Land Preservation Program
since it's consistent with the Comprehensive Plan.Seconded by
Mr.Moser.Mr.Bowers abstained.So ordered.
Lynn B.Kendle and Paula Kendle AD-92-8:
Mr.Goodrich presented the Agricultural Land Preservation
District application for Lynn and Paula Kendle.The farm is
located along the north side of Beaver Creek Road,2 1/4 miles
east of Hagerstown.The farm consists of 10 acres and has 80%
qualifying soils.This farm qualifies for the Program under the
State's definition of extraordinary Agricultural capability since
it's less than 100 acres.The Kendle farms are operated jointly.
Mr.Spickler made a motion to recommend to the County
Commissioners that the Kendle farm be included in the
Agricultural Land Preservation Program since it's consistent with
the Comprehensive Plan.Seconded by Mr.Moser.Mr.Bowers
abstained.So ordered.
OTHER BUSINESS:
Sterling Oaks Preliminary Approval Extension Reguest:
Mr.Goodrich informed the Commission that Carrie Cosner with
Milcar Construction has requested a one year extension of the
preliminary plat approval date for the Sterling Oaks subdivision.
If approved,the expiration date would be July 19,1993.Mr.
Zombro made a motion to grant the one year extension for Sterling
Oaks.Seconded by Mr.Bowers.So ordered.
Schedule Workshop Meeting -Water and Sewerage Plan Update:
Mr.Lung briefly updated the Commission on the status of the
biennial update of the Water and Sewerage Plan.The Commission
set a workshop meeting for August 10,1992 at 5:00 P.M.to
discuss procedures for the Water and Sewerage Plan.
Highway Interchange Setback Determination -Chevron Station:
Mr.Arch informed Commission members that a request has been made
for a Highway Interchange setback determination for the Chevron
service station along Route 11.Mr.Fulton,owner of the
station,will be requesting a variance from the Board of Zoning
Appeals for the existing kerosene pump and oil tank pump.They
are to remain as located on the site.During a discussion,it
was noted that an adjacent property owner,Mrs.Shank,has
concerns with parking along Brookmead Drive.The Commission
expressed concern regarding parking and traffic flow patterns
through the site.As part of the discussion with regard to the
site plan,the Planning Commission,in concurrence with the
property owner,requested that the driveway on the east side of
the existing building be extended to meet the gravel driveway on
the northwest side of the building.Mr.Zombro made a motion
that no additional setbacks are required for this site.Seconded
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by Mr.Moser.So ordered.
Boonsboro By-pass:
Mr.Arch informed members that they received a copy of the
request to the County Commissioners to incorporate the Boonsboro
By-Pass in the County's Highway Plan.After a discussion,no
action was taken by the Commission.
CIP Distribution:
Planning Commission members received copies of the adopted
Capital Improvements Program for FY 1993-1998.
Planning Commission Policy Manual Addendum:
Planning Commission members received a copy of the policy
addendum as prepared by the Planning Director concerning the
submission of construction drawings.After a brief discussion,
Mr.Spickler made a motion to include this addendum as Policy #9
in the Washington County Planning Commission's Policy Manual.
Seconded by Mr.Moser.So ordered.
Work Program Schedule:
Mr.Arch informed members that he is in the process of preparing
a work program to be adopted by the Commission.The work program
is currently being revised to include the Highway Interchange
Study.
Upcoming Meetings:
Mr.Arch informed members that a special joint public hearing
will be held between the County Commissioners and the Planning
Commission on Tuesday,August 4 at 7:00 P.M.in Court Room No.1
regarding the essential utility text amendment.
ADJOURNMENT:
There being no further business,Mr.Zombro moved and Mr.Moser
seconded a motion to adjourn the meeting at 11:00 P.M.
WASHINGTON COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION
REGULAR MEETING -AUGUST 3,1992
The Washington County Planning Commission held its regular
monthly meeting on Monday,August 3,1992 in the first floor
conference room of the County Administration Building.
Members present were:Chairman;Bertrand L.Iseminger,Vice-
Chairman;Donald E.zombro,EX-Officio;Ronald L.Bowers,and
Carol Johnson.Staff:Director;Robert C.Arch,Senior Planner;
Stephen T.Goodrich,Associate Planners;Timothy A.Lung,Lisa
Kelly Pietro,Edward Schreiber and Secretary,Janet L.Walkley.
Absent were Bernard Moser,Donald Spickler and Steven West.
CALL TO ORDER:
The meeting was called to order by the Chairman at 7:25 P.M.
MINUTES:
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Mr.Zombro made a motion to adopt
1992 regular meeting as written.
ordered.
NEW BUSINESS:
Subdivisions:
Fulton Food Lion:
the minutes of the July 13,
Seconded by Mrs.Johnson.So
Mr.Schreiber presented the preliminary subdivision plat and site
plan for Fulton Food Lion.The site is located in the northwest
quadrant of Virginia Avenue and Halfway Boulevard.Zoning is
Business Local.The owner is proposing to create 2 lots;one 1
acre lot and the second encompassing 4.3 acres.A total of 3
acres will remain.Public water and sewer will serve the site.
The proposed use for lot #2 will be the Food Lion grocery store.
This lot is not affected by the floodplain,however,existing
drainage has adverse impacts on the Greenberry Road/Virginia
Avenue intersection.The stormwater management facility for this
site should help to alleviate the problems at that intersection.
The proposed stormwater management pond will be a detention
system.Access to lot #2 will be via a 50 foot panhandle which
will also serve lot #1.Parking is adequate with 145 spaces
being provided.Lighting will be provided by pole and building
mounted lights.A six foot high fence will be constructed along
the northern property line with a chainlink fence around the
stormwater management pond.The proposed dumpster will be
located on the north side of the building.The staff requested
that the dumpster be relocated to the south side of the building,
however,for Health Department reasons,the dumpster needed to be
on the north side of the building.There is an existing traffic
problem at the Halfway Blvd./Virginia Avenue intersection.Three
items need to be looked at more closely;(1)the Planning staff
requested a traffic study for the Halfway Blvd./Virginia Avenue
intersection when the plan was first submitted.The developer's
consultant indicated that the intersection is currently working
at a level of service of either 'A'or 'B',which is very good
for this size intersection with a projected operating level of
'C'with the addition of the project and background traffic.
Some revised counts from the State Highway Administration were
just r~eeived'A preliminary review of those number indicates
that ang with background traffic and project traffic,the
County ......•..ngineering Department dete.rmined the intersection will be
workin ,at a level of service of 'D'or 'E';which is failing in
the ey~of the State Highway Administration and County policies.
(2)The ingress and egress to Route 11 currently has problems
with the Home Federal Bank property which will be further
compounded with the proposed Food Lion site.The staff suggested
a 'right-in'only for the bank site with traffic flowing through
the Food Lion site to exit the property.(3)The ingress and
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egress for the bank traffic flowing through the Food Lion site
needs to be discussed.Nothing can be worked out with the bank
personnel.
The staff is requesting that the Planning Commission require Food
Lion to redo the traffic study based on the revised numbers for
the intersection of Halfway Blvd./Virginia Avenue.This will
indicate to what improvements will be necessary to bring the
intersection to a level of service '0'which is acceptable under
the requirements of the Adequate Public Facilities Ordinance.
The biggest problem at this point is the access onto Virginia
Avenue and the actual intersection of Halfway Blvd.and Virginia
Avenue.Mr.Bowers suggested that the Planning staff come up
with a way to put an overlay on the project to move the entrance
for Food Lion and access through the bank property and remove the
entrance off of Virginia Avenue.Mr.Davis added that there is a
problem with the access to the bank and nothing will alleviate
that problem until the state grants the access onto Halfway
Boulevard.
Mr.Randall Bell with Food Lion stated that he spoke with Ed
Norris with the State Highway Administration.Mr.Norris
informed him that the State errored in its traffic study and will
be revising it.There was a discussion regarding the accuracy of
the traffic studies for the Food Lion site.Mr.Iseminger said
there are problems with this intersection and there should be
some type of analysis on the intersection done using the revised
numbers from the State.
A discussion was held indicating that Home Federal should be
contacted to try to work out an agreement with Food Lion and the
bank's access through the site.
Mr.Zombro made a motion to defer any action on the Food Lion
property until the special meeting on August 10,1992.Seconded
by Mrs.Johnson.So ordered.
Preliminary Consultations:
Edward Brewer:
The written summary of the preliminary consultation for Edward
Brewer was presented to the Commission with nothing being added
by the staff.No action was taken by the Commission.
Millvville:
The written summary of the preliminary consultation for
Millyville was presented to the Commission with clarification
being added by the staff.No action was taken by the Commission.
Highland Manor East:
Mr.Lung presented the concept plan for Highland Manor East.He
informed the Commission that this will be the subject of a PUD
rezoning application during the public hearing on
September 21,1992.The site is located along the east side of
Maryland Route 63,south of Huyetts Crossroads,currently zoned
Agricultural and located in the Urban Growth Area.Public water
and sewer is available.The developer is proposing to create 55
single-family lots on 7500 square foot lot sizes,39 two-family
or semi-detached dwelling lots,112 unit apartments,5.5 acres
for commercial use and 14 acres of open space.There will be 245
total dwelling units on 55.93 acres.Gross density will be 4.38
dwelling units per acre;the maximum density allowed is 12
dwelling units per acre.The commercial area amounts to 9.85 of
the total area,10%is the maximum allowed.There is 25%common
open space proposed which is the minimum.
The developer has not indicated what amenities would be provided.
The floodplain map shows a large area of lOO-year floodplain on
the site;most of it being contained within the open space area.
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The staff expressed several concerns dealing with the proposed
design.(1)The plan does not show any amenities or creativity
in design beyond what is provided for in the conventional zoning
district.(2)Only eight of the individual lots front directly
onto the open space.The open space should be more accessible to
all of the lots.(3)Housing types are segregated into different
areas.(4)A commercial area amounting to nearly 10%of the site
may be too large in light of the relatively low density of the
development.The staff suggested that individual lot sizes could
be reduced to provide for more usable open space.Zero lot lines
and closer clustering of buildings could reduce infrastructure
costs.The two-family and single-family dwellings could be mixed
together.The Planning Commission concurred with the staff's
comments and suggestions.
Mr.Merle Holsinger,consultant for the developer,indicated that
after the consultation he met with his client and discussed
revisions to the proposal.He added that the consideration of
loop roads and mixing the housing types was discussed.He
requested revising the concept plan and bringing it back to the
Commission at the September 14 meeting prior to taking it to
public hearing.No action was taken by the Commission.
St.James Manor:
Mr.Goodrich presented the concept plan for St.James Manor to
the Commission.He informed the Commission that this will also
be presented as a PUD application during the rezoning hearing on
September 21,1992.The site is located along College Road and
Maryland Route 65.Current zoning of the site is Residential
Rural.The developer is proposing to create 263 single-family
dwelling lots,44 semi-detached dwelling lots,and 6.5 acres for
commercial uses.The preliminary consultation will be held on
August 6,1992.The staff will be suggesting an additional
entrance to the commercial area from the internal street system.
The staff will also be requesting additional information on the
open space and recreational amenities.The staff is of the
opinion that this proposal does not take full advantage of the
intent of a PUD zoning classification since this proposal could
be established with the current RR zoning district.
The Commission agreed with the staff's suggestion that there
should be more information provided int he proposed use in the
open space areas.It also stressed the desire that the open
space be useable and in appropriate locations and not an after
thought for left-over pieces of land scattered around the
development.They also suggested eliminating some of the long
cul-de-sacs by extending roads to create loops.An additional
entrance needs to be provided to the commercial area via the
internal road system.
Sandy Hook Clusters:
Mr.Goodrich presented the concept plan for Sandy Hook clusters.
The site is located at the intersection of Keep Tryst and Sandy
Hook Roads.Zoning is Conservation.The Planning Commission
needs to determine if this proposal is appropriate for the
cluster provisions of the Zoning Ordinance.The developer is
proposing two clusters with 25 units per cluster on approximately
44 acres.The developer is proposing a condominium type
arrangement where the individual will own the unit and a
homeowners association will maintain the property.The property
would be served by a common health facility;either the public
system in Sandy Hook or design and construction of a community
system for this site only.An amendment to the Water and
Sewerage Plan would be required prior to hooking up to the Sandy
Hook system.
Mr.Merle Holsinger indicated that the developer is proposing to
use 1/4 of the property for the cluster units and the remaining
land will be for open space.
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The Commission was reluctant to act on the request to use the
cluster provisions of the Zoning Ordinance because it felt it
needed additional information.Following a brief discussion,it
was determined that the information that would be submitted with
an application for a Water and sewerage Plan amendment would be
appropriate.The Commission stressed that it was not requiring
or requesting the Plan amendment at this time.
OTHER BUSINESS:
Elmo Michael:
Mrs.Pietro informed the Commission that a request has been
received from Elmo Michael to create a lot without an on-site
septic reserve area.The subdivision plat indicates that the
10,000 square foot septic reserve area will be placed
approximately 100 feet from lot #3's rear property line.The
Health Department has determined that the proposed reserve area
location is preferable due to topographic constraints and to the
presence of hydric soils.Mr.Bowers made a motion to grant the
septic easement for Elmo Michael.Seconded by Mr.Zombro.So
ordered.
Warrenfeltz Subdivision -Septic Easement:
Mr.Schreiber indicated that a request has been received from
Mary Warrenfeltz to permit a septic easement on an adjacent lot.
Due to lot constraints,a 10,000 square foot area could not be
obtained for this proposed lot.The Health Department has
performed the testing for the easement and have approved both the
tests and concept.Mr.Iseminger asked if the adjacent owner
would be notified that an easement is being placed on their
property.Mr.Schreiber indicated that they have been notified
and are willing to sign the plat.Mr.Zombro made a motion to
grant the septic easement for the Warrenfeltz.Seconded by Mr.
Bowers.So ordered.
Preliminary Consultations:
Crosspoint:
Mr.Goodrich presented the concept plan for Crosspoint.The
subject site is located to the south of the Valley Mall and north
of Virginia Avenue.The developers are proposing 734 units with
588 being utilized for apartments or condominiums.
There are 14 acres of development for the elderly on Sections 5
and 7 which will be some type of nursing care and assisted living
arrangements.There is also a small area dedicated for
commercial use along Virginia Avenue and proposed Massey
Boulevard.During the consultation there were requirements that
a traffic study needs to be prepared prior to the final design
standards for the development.Massey Boulevard is intended to
connect with the portion of Massey Boulevard at the Valley Mall.
A portion of this site is proposed to be rezoned.The case will
be presented during the September 21,1992 public hearing.
During the consultation it was determined that some of the
townhouse lots may not front a public road and a variance may be
required.The Forest Conservation Act was also discussed during
the consultation.After a brief discussion,no action was taken
by the Commission.
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OTHER BUSINESS:
Plan Approval:
Mr.Goodrich informed the Commission that several County
departments met previously with representatives of Economic
Development Commission and a prospect who is interested in
locating its business in Washington County.It appears that the
plan review schedules (subdivision,site plan and grading plan
approvals)will playa critical role in the organization's
decision making process.Each County agency has evaluated its
portion of the plan review process and,together,mapped out a
strategy to meet a very compressed schedule while still
conducting a thorough review.The Planning Commission's role in
the plan review process will be subdivision and site plan review.
The Planning Department indicated that it could arrange a special
Planning Commission meeting for review and approval of plans at
the earliest possible time.As a second alternative,the
Planning Commission could grant authority to the staff to grant
the approvals.After a discussion,the Commission,by consensus,
informed the staff to do whatever was necessary to try to meet
the proposed schedule.It was noted that if any problems should
arise,the Planning Commission should be informed.
Solid Waste Plan Public Informational Meetings:
Mr.Arch informed Commission members that public informational
meetings have been set up to take public input on the Solid Waste
Plan prior to the biennial update.The first meeting will be
-held on Wednesday,August 12,1992 at the Clear Spring Municipal
Building,the second meeting will be held on August 26,1992 in
the County Administration Building and the third meeting will be
held on September 9,1992 at Boonsboro High School.
Letter from Boonsboro Planning Commission:
Mr.Arch informed members that the letter from the Boonsboro
Planning Commission was for informational purposes only and no
action was needed.
Meeting Dates with Boonsboro Planning Commission:
The Commission decided to set a tentative meeting date for a
Monday evening during the month of October.Mr.Arch is to
contact the Boonsboro Planning Commission and get back with this
Commission to confirm.
APFO Report:
The Commission decided to discuss the APFO report during the
special meeting of August 10,1992.
ADJOURNMENT:
On a motion by Mr.Zombro,seconded by Mrs.Johnson,the meeting
adjourned at 10:00 P.M.
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WASHINGTON COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION
SPECIAL MEETING -AUGUST 10,1992
The Washington County Planning Commission held a special meeting
on Monday,August 10,1992 in the first floor conference room of
the County Administration Building.
Members present were:Chairman;Bertrand L.Iseminger,Vice-
Chairman;Donald E.Zombro,Carol Johnson,Bernard Moser,Donald
Spickler and Steven West.Staff:Director;Robert C.Arch,and
Associate Planner;Timothy A.Lung.Absent was Ronald Bowers.
CALL TO ORDER:
The meeting was called to order by the Chairman at 5:35 P.M.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS:
Fulton Food Lion Preliminary Plat/Site Plan:
Mr.Arch informed the Commission that there was a meeting between
the County Engineering staff,the developer's engineer and
traffic engineer concerning the traffic numbers provided by the
State Highway Administration.Additional numbers need to be
obtained and the County has done some traffic counts.Another
meeting scheduled for this week with the State Traffic Engineer,
George Small.This meeting should resolve the issues concerning
~hich numbers should be used in the traffic study.No action is
necessary by the Planning Commission at this time.
Mr.Iseminger requested that a special meeting be scheduled for
next Monday,August 17,1992 if the additional information is
available at that time for the Planning Commission to take
action.If not,the Planning Director may cancel the meeting
until such time that the developer requests a special meeting.
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Mrs.Johnson made a motion to
August 17,1992 at 5:30 P.M.
ordered.
hold a special meeting on Monday,
Seconded by Mr.Spickler.So
At this time,Mr.Steven West arrived.
OTHER BUSINESS:
APFO Status Report:
The Planning Commission had been given a copy of the six
status report.Mr.Zombro made a motion to re-affirm to
County Commissioners that the APFO should be continued.
by Mrs.Johnson.So ordered.
Work Program:
month
the
Seconded
Mr.Arch handed out copies of the work program.He explained the
format of the work program which breaks down special projects and
the routine work over an 18 month period.He pointed out some
new additions.The Transportation Plan and the development of a
schedule to conform with the State Planning Act of 1992 to
address the visions and to update the Comprehensive Plan and
other Ordinances.
There was a discussion concerning the abandoned railroad survey,
the traffic model/traffic plan and the Forest Conservation Plan.
Mr.Arch informed the Commission that Steve Goodrich is working
on the Forest Conservation project.Workshop meetings and public
information meeting with regard to the Forest Conservation
Ordinance are tentatively scheduled for October and November.
Public hearings and adoption by late November.The Ordinance
must be officially adopted by December 31,1992.
Water and Sewerage Plan:
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Mr.Lung informed the Commission that the State requires that the
Plan be updated every two years.He sUlnmarized the technical
changes that are being proposed.He also stated that there is a
need to address some policy issues within the Plan.The purpose
of this discussion is to get the Commission's input as to the
staff's proposals regarding these policy issues.The staff is
considering changes in procedures that would streamline the
review process for extending facilities within the Urban Growth
Area.Mr.Lung stated that this could be accomplished by
assigning a priority designation to all land areas within the
Growth Area and it may involve the creation of a new service
priority designation.Mr.Moser endorsed the idea and suggested
that the town's be made aware of this change.Mr.Iseminger
stated that higher priority designations should be given to
specific areas within the Growth Area where the County wants
growth to be directed.It was pointed out that giving an area a
priority designation does not obligate the County or anyone else
to the actual construction of the facilities within a certain
time frame.
Mr.Lung stated that another issue that should be addressed
within the Plan is a policy concerning connection to water and/or
sewer lines that are located outside of the Growth Areas along
with growth pressures created by the availability of facilities
in the rural area and the resulting increase in density.Mr.
Lung pointed out examples in the Sharpsburg/Keedysville area,
Sandy Hook and Martins Crossroads and suggested that some sort of
new service area designation may need to be devised to control
qccess to these lines.The Planning Commission concurred with
the staff that some sort of control is necessary.The Commission
also recognized that it is far better for homes to be connected
to public facilities than to depend on private wells and septic
systems.
There was a discussion on how much development and at what
density is acceptable in the rural areas along with the concept
of clustering.The Commission asked the staff to explore the
issue further and corne up with some alternatives to be presented
to the Planning Commission at another meeting.
ADJOURNMENT:
There being no further business,the meeting adjourned at
7:00 P.M.
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WASHINGTON COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION
SPECIAL MEETING -AUGUST 17,1992
The Washington County Planning Commission held a special meeting
on Monday,August 17,1992 in the first floor conference room of
the County Administration Building.
Members present were:Chairman;Bertrand L.Iseminger,Vice-
Chairman;Donald E.Zombro,Carol Johnson,Bernard Moser,and
Donald Spickler.Staff:Director;Robert C.Arch,Associate
Planner;Edward Schreiber and Secretary,Janet L.Walkley.Also
present was County Engineer;Terrence McGee.Absent were Ronald
L.Bowers and Steven West.
CALL TO ORDER:
The meeting was called to order by the Chairman at 5:35 P.M.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS:
Food Lion Grocery Store:
Mr.Schreiber reminded Commission members that the Food Lion site
is located at the Halfway Boulevard/Virginia Avenue intersection
and gave a brief history of the plan.He stated that the
Washington County Engineering Department completed a traffic
study which generated similar results to the consultant's study
and which indicated acceptable levels of service for that
intersection.During a meeting with the State Highway
Administration,County Engineer and consultant it was determined
that the intersection of Halfway Boulevard/Virginia Avenue does
work at an acceptable level of service.The problem is not with
the actual intersection,it's with the access location for Home
Federal Bank being to close to the intersection causing left
turning movements in and out of the bank site to significantly
impact traffiv flow through the intersection.The County is
requesting that the developer provide a connection from Virginia
Avenue via a right-of-way or easement through the Food Lion site
for access to the bank property for cross flow traffic purposes,
with the ultimate intent of providing the Food Lion and Home
Federal Bank combined access to Halfway Boulevard in the future.
If and when Home Federal requests modification to its site for an
access onto Halfway Boulevard,its existing access onto Virginia
Avenue would be revised to a right-turn in only as well as a
right out only onto Halfway Boulevard.All other traffic
movement for the bank property would need to access Food Lion
through the right-of-way.
Mr.McGee briefly explained the existing problems with the access
location for the bank with Virginia Avenue and how the
Engineering Department came up with the level of service for the
Halfway Boulevard/Virginia Avenue intersection.Mr.McGee
informed the Commission that the State Highway Administration is
requiring an accel/decel lane and by-pass lane along Route 11.
Route 11 will be widened from Pizza Hut to Greenberry Road on the
east side from the Home Federal Bank property line to Greenberry
Road on the west side of Virginia Avenue.
Mr.Schreiber reviewed the proposed site plan for Commission
members.Mr.Iseminger suggested that screening be provided
along the western property line to shield the site from the
adjacent RU zoning district as well as along Halfway Boulevard.
Mr.Schreiber stated that the property slopes and is difficult to
see from Halfway Boulevard,therefore,screening may not be
required.Mr.Iseminger asked if there will be vegetative
screening along the fence.Mr.Schreiber said no since the fence
will be around the stormwater management pond.
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Mr.Schreiber stated the developer is requesting preliminary
subdivision and site plan approval.The staff is requesting the
Commission grant staff authority to approve the final subdivision
plat once all agencies are satisfied.
Residents of Greenberry Road were present and submitted a
petition.Residents of the area expressed concern for additional
traffic,noice and additional commercial development in the area.
They stated that the six foot high fence will not keep the noise
and lights from the residential areas.
After a discussion,Mr.Zomhro made a motion to grant preliminary
subdivision plat and site plan and grant the staff the authority
to approve the final subdivision plat conditional on screening
being provided along the western property line,trash pickup be
limited to the hours between 8:00 A.M.and 5:00 P.M.and a
statement being added to the plat regarding the easement and
joint sharing in the construction of the access to Halfway
Boulevard.Seconded by Mr.Spickler.So ordered.
EXECUTIVE SESSION:
Mr.Moser made a motion to go into Executive Session.Seconded
by Mr.Zomhro.
AA-?VIA /'
WASHINGTON COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION
REGULAR MEETING -SEPTEMBER 14,1992
The Washington County Planning Commission held its regular
monthly meeting on Monday,September 14,1992 in the first floor
oonference room of the County Administration Building.
Members present were:Chairman;Bertrand L.Iseminger,Vice-
Chairman;Donald E.Zombro,EX-Officio;Ronald L.Bowers,Bernard
Moser,and Donald Spickler.Staff:Director;Robert C.Arch,
Senior Planner;Stephen T.Goodrich,Associate Planners;James P.
Brittain,Timothy A.Lung,Lisa Kelly Pietro,Edward Schreiber
and Secretary,Janet L.Walkley.
CALL TO ORDER:
The meeting was called to order by the Chairman at 7:00 P.M.
MINUTES:
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Mr.Zombro made a motion to adopt the minutes of the August 10
Special Meeting at written.Seconded by Mr.Moser.So ordered.
Mr.Iseminger stated that for the minutes of the Special Meeting
'of August 17,a sentence should be added to the motion indicating
that an out parcel is being created with denied access to
Virginia Avenue.Mr.Spickler made a motion to adopt the minutes
of the August 17 Special Meeting as amended.Seconded by Mr.
Moser.So ordered.
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Mr.Zombro made a motion to adopt
1992 Regular Meeting as written.
ordered.
the minutes of the August 3,
Seconded by Mr.Spickler.So
Mr.Bowers commented on the outcome of the Board of Zoning
Appeals hearing regarding the Clean Rock Industries site plan.
He added that in his opinion,the Board of Zoning Appeals should
not have been able to approve the incomplete site plan.After a
discussion,it was decided that a special meeting will be held at
6:15 P.M.on Monday,September 21,1992 prior to the rezoning
hearing to meet with Ralph France on the status of the Clean Rock
site plan.The Planning Commission also requested that Zoning
Administrator,Paul Prodonovich be asked to attend this meeting.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS:
Highland Manor East:
Mr.Lung reminded the Commission that during last month's meeting
they reviewed the preliminary consultation and PUD concept for
Highland Manor East.At that time,the written summary of the
preliminary consultation was not available but has been sent out
with the rezoning staff report.The County Engineer submitted
some minor corrections to his comments regarding stormwater
management for this development.During last month's meeting,
the staff expressed concerns regarding the need for amenities and
creativity in design,that only eight lots fronted on the open
space area,housing types were segregated and that the commercial
area was too large based on the density of the residential area.
The consultant has revised the concept plan to address these
concerns.The road layout has been revised to eliminate three of
the four oul-de-sacs,the individual lot sizes have been reduoed
and the oommon open space area has been inoreased,more of the
lots are direotly oontiguous to the oommon open spaoe areas and a
pedestrian system has been provided for aooess,more detail has
been provided as to the layout of the apartment buildings,the
proposed reoreation faoilities have been shown on the plan and
some off-street parking areas have been provided.The number of
lots has been inoreased to 276 total dwelling units.The
applioant is also proposing a reduotion in front yard setback for
the single-family lots as part of the PUD applioation.
Mr.Mer~e Holsinger,consultant,indicated that the revised plan
shows the looping of roads through the development to permit
additional access to the open space areas.He suggested that the
County may be interested in a possible County park on the 12
acres of open space.Commission members expressed concern for
future development adjacent to this development and Mr.Lung
briefly explained the proposed Hunters Green development.
Mr.Lung informed the Commission that after the preliminary
consultation written comments were received from the Maryland
State Highway Administration requesting a provision for a
connection off the road system for future development.A
connection would be difficult due to the floodplain on the
property and the difficulty in determining the type of
development that could be proposed due to the adjacent property
being zoned Highway Interchange.After a discussion it was
decided that Mr.Lung contact the State Highway Administration
and remind them of the proposed access for Hunters Green.The
Commission expressed satisfaction with the revised concept and
did not recommend any changes prior to the Public Hearing.
NEW BUSINESS:
Variances:
David Bowers ISV-92-016):
Mr.Schreiber presented the variance request for David Bowers.
"The site is located along the north side of Bowers Farm Lane just
west of Maryland Route 632.The variance is being requested from
Section 405.11.B of the Subdivision Ordinance which states all
lots shall have a minimum of 25 feet of public road frontage.
The applicant is proposing to create 1 lot without public road
frontage.The lot will not be conveyed to an immediate family
member.The existing gravel lane will serve the new lot and also
serves two existing dwellings.Mr.Russ Townsley,consultant,
gave a brief overview of the property.Mr.Moser made a motion
to grant the variance.Seconded by Mr.Zombro.So ordered.It
was noted that David Bowers is not a relative of Ron Bowers.
Edward Norman ISV-92-017):
Mr.Schreiber presented the variance request for Edward Norman.
The site is located along the south side of Lappans Road
(Maryland Route 68)approximately I mile west of Route 65.The
variance is being requested from Section 405.11.B.1 of the
Subdivision Ordinance which states lots created for family
members shall front on an existing lane or right-of-way.The
applicant is proposing to create a 1.1 acre lot and convey it to
an immediate family member.The lot would ultimately use the
existing access to Maryland Route 68.Topographic conditions
would not permit a typical subdivision.The plat will have the
10-year family member statement.Mr.Zombro made a motion to
grant the variance request.Seconded by Mr.Moser.So ordered.
John R.Oliver -Northbrook Estates,Section B ISV-92-014):
Mrs.Pietro presented the variance request for John R.Oliver.
The site is located along the south side of Maryland Route 60.
The variance is requested to reduce the future dedicated right-
of-way from 75 feet to 40 feet from centerline for the final plat
of Northbrook Estates,Section B,Lots 62 through 113.
Section 402 of the Subdivision Ordinance states all subdivision
should conform with the requirements of the County's Highway
Plan.The applicant was unaware of the 75 foot requirements
until the submittal of the final plat for Northbrook Estates.A
memo was received from the State Highway Administration
recommending the 75 feet in order to widen Route 60 to a dual
lane highway in the future.A discussion was held regarding the
acquisition of right-of-way for the State Highway Administration
to widen Route 60.Mr.Zombro made a motion to defer action on
the variance for Northbrook Estates until additional information
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can be obtained from the State Highway Administration.Seconded
by Mr.Spickler.So ordered.
John Benisek (SV-92-015):
Mrs.Pietro presented the variance request for John Benisek.The
site is located along the north side of Virginia Avenue just west
of Nursery Road.The variance is being requested to create a
combined entrance serving two single-family lots that is within
the 500 foot minimum distance for points of access.The proposed
access for the single-family dwellings is approximately 200 feet
from an existing access.The State Highway Administration has no
problem with the request.The agency has stated that site
distance is adequate.Mr.Moser made a motion to grant the
variance request.Seconded by Mr.Bowers.So ordered.
Subdivisions:
Mary Warrenfeltz:
Mr.Schreiber presented the preliminary and final subdivision
plat for Mary Warrenfeltz,lots 1 through 4.The site is located
along the northwest side of Newcomer Road approximately 1000 feet
west of Maryland Route 64.The applicant is proposing to create
4 lots on 3.71 acres.Zoning is Agricultural.The lots will be
served by individual wells and septic systems.All agency
approvals have been received.Mr.Zombro made a motion to grant
preliminary and final plat approval.Seconded by Mr.Bowers.So
ordered.
Mary Trumpower:
Mrs.Pietro presented the preliminary and final subdivision plat
for Mary Trumpower,lots 5 through 9.The site is located along
the south side of Barnhart Road just west of st.Pauls Church
Road.Zoning is Agricultural.The applicant is proposing to
create five single-family lots on approximately 5 acres.
Proposed lot sizes will be .92 acres.Individual wells and
septic systems will serve the lots.Access will be via Barnhart
Road.All agency approvals have been received.Mr.Spickler
made a motion to grant preliminary and final plat approval.
Seconded by Mr.Moser.So ordered.
Rosewood Estates:
Mrs.Pietro presented the subdivision plat for Rosewood Estates;
preliminary approval for lots 1 through 74 and final approval for
lots 1 through 35.The site is located along the north side of
Robinwood Drive.Total area of the site is 38 acres.Section A
consists of 21 acres and is zoned Residential Suburban.The lots
will be served by public water and sewer.All lots will be
served by new public streets with varsity Lane connecting with
Robinwood Drive.A 60 foot easement has been reserved for a
possible connection to a proposed road that is shown on the
County's Highway Plan.This road will connect Robinwood Drive
with Eastern Boulevard.All agency approvals have been received.
Mr.Bowers requested that an overview of the entire area be
submitted when a large development is proposed.Mr.Bowers made
a motion to grant preliminary approval for lots 1 through 74 and
final approval for lots 1 through 34 for Rosewood Estates.
Seconded by Mr.Moser.So ordered.
Cedar Hills:
Mr.Iseminger informed the audience that he received numerous
letters from the residents in the area and copies will be
forwarded to all Commission members.
Mrs.Pietro presented the preliminary and final subdivision plat
for Cedar Hills lots 1 through 20.The site is located along the
east side of Old Forge Road.Zoning is Agricultural.The
applicant is proposing to create 20 single-family lots with sizes
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ranging from 1.2 to 11 acres.Total area of Phase I is 56 acres.
A total of 180 acres remain.The lots will be served by
individual wells and septic systems.The development has been
scaled back due to the inadequacy of Old Forge Road.The
developer will need to meet all requirements of the Adequate
Public Facilities Ordinance in order to obtain more than 20 lots.
All written agency approvals have been received except for the
Health Department.The Health Department is in the process of
testing two wells and written approval is conditional on the
results of those wells.
Mr.Terrence McGee,County Engineer discussed the adequacy of Old
Forge Road and the two bridges.He also discussed the
requirements of the Adequate Public Facilities Ordinance that
will need to be met prior to the creation of more than 20 lots.
Mr.McGee added the County has concerns for the bridges on Old
Forge Road and has plans to upgrade the one towards Route 62.He
indicated the County has no plans for any improvements to Old
Forge Road at this time.Mr.McGee indicated that Glenn Dull had
previously approved twenty lots for development prior to the
APFO.
Mr.Bowers expressed concern that the developer may not be able
to make the project financially feasible if 60 lots are going to
be subject to the APFO and therefore the developer may want to
reconsider the entire proposed development.
At this time Mr.Iseminger accepted comments from the residents
"of the area.
Mr.Craig Clevenger asked if the development of 20 lots would be
approved this evening,would the developer be permitted to
develop the additional 60 lots without Planning Commission
approval?Mr.Iseminger informed Mr.Clevenger that if the
Commission were to grant approval of the 20 lots this evening,it
would be for only 20 lots.Any additional development would need
to meet the requirements of the APFO before obtaining Planning
Commission approval.
Dr.Paul Waldman expressed concerns on the adequacy of Clopper
Road since the County is of the opinion that most of the traffic
will travel that direction to Maryland Route 62.He also
expressed concern with expanding residential development close to
the Independent Cement Corporation boundary line.He added that
citizens in that area have been concerned with the burning of
hazardous waste by ICC over the past year and adding additional
residential development will only affect more citizens.
Pat Schooley informed the Commission that the Urban Growth Area
boundary is approximately 2 to 3 miles away from this property.
She indicated that a letter from Glenn Dull indicated that he
would permit twelve lots but that he intended to change the daily
trips per day from five to eight thus permitting the creation of
20 lots.Mrs.Schooley suggested that Mr.Shaool development 12
to 15 farmettes on his property in order to keep the Agricultural
atmosphere pervasive in the area.
Mr.Clinton Stouffer,Deputy Fire Chief with the Leitersburg
volunteer Fire Company,expressed concern with the bridges and
the crossing of fire engines.He also expressed concern with the
lack of fire hydrants in the Leitersburg area noting that the
closest hydrant is approximately 3 miles away.
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Dr.George Engstrom indicated he's concerned with the entire area
and that the Shaool property should not be grandfathered in.
It's Dr.Engstrom's opinion that granting this request will set a
precedent for additional development in the area on inadequate
roads.
After a discussion,Mr.Zombro made a motion to grant preliminary
plat approval for 20 lots with final approval to be considered
during the October Planning Commission meeting.*The Planning
Commission indicated the developer should be contacted to
ascertain that he is aware of the responsibilities required under
the APFO after 20 lots are approved.Seconded by Mr.Spickler.
So ordered.
Site Plans:
Coss Country Market:
Mr.Lung presented the site plan for Coss Country Market.The
site is located along the west side of Maryland Route 60 and is
zoned Agricultural.The applicant is proposing to construct a
40'x 60'building for a produce stand.There is an existing
building on the site which will be used for an indoor produce
stand.The existing entrance off Route 60 will be used and has
been approved by the State Highway Administration.The existing
well and septic system will also be used.A variance was granted
by the Board of Zoning Appeals for a reduction in lot width,lot
-area and side yard setback.Additional vegetative screen
plantings along the northern and southern property lines due to
adjacent dwellings has been provided as requested by the staff.
All agency approvals have been received.Mr.Zombro made a
motion to grant site plan approv~l.Seconded by Mr.Spickler.
So ordered.
Washington County Business Park,Lot "L"-Jeffcourt Realty:
Mr.Lung presented the preliminary subdivision plat and site plan
for the Washington County Business Park Lot L.The site is
located along the south side of Western Maryland Parkway.Zoning
is Industrial General.The applicant is proposing to create an
80'x 80'office building on 2.03 acres.A total of 15 employees
is proposed with 15 to 20 customers per day.A total of 25
parking spaces are provided.The parking area and main entrance
to the building is located to the rear of the building.Public
water and sewer will serve the site.All written agency
approvals have been received except for the Health Department and
County Engineer.The Health Department needs availability
letters.The site plan has been revised per comments from the
Zoning Administrator and needs to be reviewed by the Permits
Department.The staff is requesting preliminary subdivision plat
and site plan approval conditional on receipt of approval from
the Health Department,County Engineer and review by the Permits
Department.The staff is also requesting authority to approve
the final subdivision plat.Mr.Spickler made a motion to grant
preliminary plat and site plan approval conditional on Health
Department,and County Engineer approval and review by the
Permits Department.The Commission is also granting staff
authority to approve the final plat.Seconded by Mr.Moser.So
ordered.
*Per Planning Commission meeting of October 5,1992,preliminary
approval is conditional upon Health Department approval.
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Preliminary Consultation:
Julian Oliver:
The written summary of the preliminary consultation was presented
to the Commission with nothing being added by the staff.No
action was taken by the Commission.
Byers Meadows of Downsville:
The written summary of the preliminary consultation was presented
to the Commission with nothing being added by the staff.No
action was taken by the Commission.
John Benisek:
The written summary of the preliminary consultation was presented
to the Commission with nothing being added by the staff.No
action was taken by the Commission.
Sandy Hook:
Mr.Goodrich distributed a letter from an adjacent property owner
who has concerns regarding this development.The written summary
of the preliminary consultation was presented to the Commission
with nothing being added by the staff.No action was taken by
"the Commission.
Crosspoint:
The written summary of the preliminary consultation was presented
to the Commission with nothing being added by the staff.No
action was taken by the Commission .
.St.James Manor:
Mr.Brittain reminded the Commission that during last month's
meeting the Commission was informed of the staff's concerns
regarding the under utilization of the PUD,the lack of looping
roads and designation of the open space areas.He stated that
comments have been received from the Historic District Commission
suggesting the reuse of the buildings on the site.It was the
HOC's opinion that the developer should be more sensitive to the
historic significance of the site.Adequate land should be
reserved around the structure.
Mr.Iseminger indicated that in large developments which generate
a significant number of children in the surrounding schools,
areas;possibly portions of the open space areas,could be
reserved for future schools.A discussion followed and no action
was taken by the Commission.
OTHER BUSINESS:
Towne Oak Village Home Owner's Association:
Mr.Goodrich stated that an arrangement has been made for the
Home Owners'Association of Towne Oak Village to take title to
and manage the common open space areas in the development.There
is a statement on the plat for Towne Oak Village indicating
Planning Commission approval is required prior to any transfer of
responsibilities from the developer.Mr.Ralph France,County
Attorney,has reviewed the Home Owners'Association documents and
gave his approval.Mr.Zombro made a motion to approve transfer
of ownership and maintenance responsibilities of the common open
space area for Towne Oak Village to the Home Owners'Association.
Seconded by Mr.Moser.So ordered.
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Crosspoint Pre-Site Plan Concept:
Mr.Goodrich informed the Commission that the developer of
Crosspoint is requesting the Commission's approval to submit a
preliminary site plan for the Crosspoint development.Mr.
Goodrich explained this request is permitted by the Zoning
Ordinance but is not a common practice.A discussion was held
regarding the construction of Massey Boulevard Extended and the
elimination of Cole Road.Mr.Zombro made a motion to allow
submittal of a preliminary site plan on the entire Crosspoint
development.Seconded Mr.Moser.So ordered.
Highway Interchange Setback Determination:
Thompson Towing Service:
Mr.Arch informed the Commission that a Highway Interchange
setback determination needs to be made for Thompson Towing
Service located in Clear Spring.Three uses are involved with
the property:1)towing and recovery service which requires
approval by the Board of Zoning Appeals;2)parking of school
buses on the site which is a principle permitted use and 3)the
storage of trucks as a truck terminal which is also a principle
permitted use.The Planning Commission may want to require
additional screening around the front of the property.Mr.Ken
Grove,Attorney for the applicants,gave a brief overview of the
property.Mr.Iseminger suggested additional screening be
·provided around the existing fence.Mr.Bowers made a motion
that no additional setbacks will be required but additional
screening along the fence should be shown on the site plan.
Seconded by Mr.Spickler.So ordered.
Potomac Valley Farms Supply:
Mr.Arch stated that the applicant is proposing to add a building
to an existing structure.The required setback in the HI
district is 75 feet,however,there is only 40 feet available.
The applicant will be approaching the Appeals Board for a
reduction in the 75 foot setback.After a discussion,Mr.
Spickler made a motion that no additional setbacks will be
required and that site plan approval is granted to the staff.
Seconded by Mr.Bowers.So ordered.
ADJOURNMENT:
There being no further business,Mr.Zombro made a motion to
adjourn the meeting at 10:45 P.M.Seconded by Mr.Moser.So
ordered.
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WASHINGTON COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION
SPECIAL MEETING -SEPTEMBER 21,1992
The Washington County Planning Commission held a special meeting on
Monday September 21,1992 in Court Room One of the Court House.
Members present were:Chairman;Bertrand L.Iseminger,Vice-
Chairman;Donald E.Zombro,Ex-Officio;Ronald L.Bowers,Bernard
Moser,Donald Spickler.Carol Johnson was absent.Staff:
Director;Robert C.Arch.County Attorney;Ralph France.Permits
and Inspections:Director;Paul Prodonovich.
CALL TO ORDER:
The meeting was called to order by the Chairman at 6:15 P.M.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS:
Cleanrock and the Decision of the Board of Zoning Appeals:
Mr.France referred to the statutes and County ordinances,which
were passed out to the Commission members.Mr.France referred to
Section 109 (Appeal)of the Washington County Subdivision
Ordinance and read the definition aloud.He stated that pursuant
to the terms of the Washington County Subdivision Ordinance an
appeal from the Planning Commission can be made to the Board of
Zoning Appeals.Mr.France then referred to page 128,which is a
copy of Article 25 relating the Board of Zoning Appeals and
establishes their powers and duties as stated in Article 66B
Annotated Code of Maryland,he stated in addition to that they have
powers and duties as stated in Section 25.2 and read aloud their
powers and stated that it is a very general power.Mr.France then
referred to page 129 Section 25.4 regarding an appeal to the Board
of Zoning Appeals and page 606,Article 66B of the Annotated Code.
He pointed out to the last page,Item H.(Decision of the Board),
which specified the powers of the Board of Appeals.
Mr.France stated that in order for the Planning Commission to
contend that the Board of Zoning Appeals does not have the
authority to rule on a Site Plan determination made by the Planning
Commission,they need to find a law that is contrary to what he has
just reviewed.Mr.France then stated that a question was raised
of whether the Planning Commission could take an appeal to the
Circuit Court from the Board of Zoning Appeals decision and
referred to a similar situation that took place a few years ago.
Mr.France stated that the Planning Commission could take a
contrary position,but would have to find a basis for it.
Mr.Iseminger asked if what he was saying was that the Board of
Zoning Appeals in fact had the right to act as the Planning
Commission to reverse the Planning Commission decision and at the
same time approve the site plan.Mr.France stated that under the
State statutes and County ordinances,they did have the authority
to do that and stated that once an appeal is taken from the
Planning Commission decision,from that point on the Planning
Commission is out of the case.Mr.Arch asked if the Planning
Commission or Planning Staff should be at a Zoning Board of Appeals
hearing.Mr.France stated no,once the appeal is made the
Planning Commission and Staff is out of the case.Mr.Moser asked
if at the Board of Zoning Appeals hearing if in deed site plan
approval was given.Mr.France stated he believed the Board of
Zoning Appeals approved the Site Plan as submitted.A discussion
followed regarding if the site plan was approved,since the Board
of Zoning Appeals did not sign it and several other points that are
normally addressed,were not.Mr.Prodonovich stated that at the
time he was first invited to the Planning Commission to discuss
Clean Rock,the purpose was to discuss setbacks.He felt the
biggest mistake made by the Planning Commission was in not filing
a charge against him based on administrative error,since the
Commission felt so strongly about him making the determination as
he did.Since that was not done,the plan continued through the
process and when it came back before the Commission they tried to
deny it based on screening,traffic study and an environmental
191
impact study.He stated that only one of them had been discussed
from the beginning (screening).The other two issues were not
brought up before and that is what Clean Rock appealed.Mr.
Iseminger disagreed about the environmental impact study,and
stated that the State had requested one be done during the
Preliminary Consultation.A discussion followed.Mr.Iseminger
stated that the purpose of the meeting was to determine where they
stand with this case.Mr.France stated that the Planning
Commission is no longer part of the case,if the case has not been
appealed by today,the next step would be for one party to appeal
within 30 days of the Board of Zoning Appeals decision,then the
Circuit Court would have to determine whether or not the decision
stands.Mr.France will check into the approval signature on the
plat.
ADJOURNMENT:
There being no further business,Mr.Moser made a motion to adjourn
the meeting at 6:35 P.M.Seconded by Mr.Spickler.So ordered
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WASHINGTON COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION
REGULAR MEETING -OCTOBER 5,1992
The Washington County Planning Commission held its regular monthly
meeting on Monday,October 5,1992 in the first floor conference
room of the County Administration Building.
Members present were:Chairman;Bertrand L.Iseminger,Vice-
Chairman;Donald E.Zombro,Bernard Moser,Donald Spickler,Carol
Johnson and Robert Ernst,II.Staff:Director;Robert C.Arch,
Senior Planner;Stephen T.Goodrich,Associate Planners;TimothyA.
Lung,Lisa Kelly Pietro,Edward Schreiber,Eric Seifarth and
Secretary,Deborah S.Kirkpatrick.
CALL TO ORDER:
The meeting was called to order by the Chairman at 7:00 P.M.
Before proceeding with the minutes the Board welcomed their new
member,Robert E.Ernst,II and introduced the new secretary.
Mr.Arch requested that an item be added to the agenda and one be
deleted.Under subdivisions,Item 2 Donald Kershner,has been
wi thdrawn by the consultant pending changes and based on the
changes may be handled as a minor subdivision.Request to add
Ralph Stotler,1-4 lot subdivision,preliminary and final plat.At
the time the agenda was prepared not all of the approvals had been
received.The approvals are now in.The request is for expedition
purposes.Mr.Zombro made a motion to accept it as a preliminary
and final plat.Seconded by Mr.Spickler.So ordered.
MINUTES:
"Mr.Zombro stated that for the minutes of September 14,a sentence
should be added to the motion granting preliminary plat approval to
Cedar Hills Subdivision',that this is conditional on Health
Department approval.Seconded by Mr.Moser.So ordered.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS!
John R.Oliver (Northbrook Estates,Section B):
Mrs.Pietro reminded the Commission that during last month's
meeting,a variance was presented for Northbrook Estates Section B,
Final Plat.The variance was for the reduction in the future
dedication of the 75 foot right-of-way from the centerline to 40
feet.Mrs.Pietro explained that since this was the last section
of the development,it was too late to get the extra right-of-way,
since the entrances,lots,and public streets have been put in.
State Highway has not changed their position.They do not know
when they will expand Route 60 but would like to have the right-of-
way if they needed it.At this time,nothing is planned.No money
has been set aside.Mrs.Pietro stated she would like to present
the final plat for Northbrook Estates for approval,even though it
is not on the agenda,since per the last Planning Commission
meeting,the members requested that it be brought back.Mrs.
Pietro asked if the Commission would like to see the plat now or
wai t until subdivisions.The Commission decided to proceed.Mrs.
Pietro presented the plat to the Commission.The site is located
on the east side of Leitersburg Pike (MD Route 60).The developer
is proposing 52 single family lots.Total area of Section B is 42
acres.The preliminary plat was approved in March of 1991.At
that time the Planning Commission requested that all final plats
for Northbrook Estates be brought back for approval.All lots are
to be served by public water and sewer and all the needed agency
approvals have been received.All the needed permits for the
wetlands and floodplain have been taken care of.The only thing
pending is the future dedicated right-of-way.Mr.Iseminger
questioned if preliminary and final approval was given to Section
A.Mrs.Pietro answered yes and that it is under construction.
There was some discussion regarding the right-of-way in Section A.
Mr.Iseminger asked if wetlands fall within the 70 foot right-of-
way.The developer,Mr.Oliver,stated that they do and pointed to
their location on the plat,for only a 10 or 15 foot wide strip.
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Mr.Oliver was given the opportunity to add anything else.Mr.
Iseminger stated that at the previous meeting Mr.Bowers was to ask
the Commissioners if they had any plans to dualize the road.Mrs.
Pietro stated that she has not heard anything.A discussion was
held regarding the right-of-way.Mr.Spickler moved to grant the
variance.Seconded by Mr.Zombro.So moved.Mr.Ernst and Mrs.
Johnson both abstained.Mr.Moser moved to grant final approval
for Section B.Seconded by Mr.Spickler.So ordered.
Cedar Hills East:
Mrs.Pietro presented the preliminary and final subdivision plat
for Cedar Hills East lots 1 through 20.The site is located along
the east side of Old Forge Road.All the agency approvals are in.
They are still awaiting the results of the Health Department well
test.Mr.Johnson of Davis,Renn and Associates,Inc.stated that
he has contacted the company testing the wells and they should have
the results sometime next week.There was some discussion regarding
the location of the bridge.Mr.Iseminger stated that final
approval was being withheld,in order to give Mrs.Pietro the time
to notify the developer and be sure the developer is aware of all
of the constraints involved with application of the APFO.Mr.
Shaool stated that he understands what is involved.Mr.Johnson,
consultant,stated that they were looking for final approval this
evening contingent upon the results of the well test.There was a
discussion regarding what would happen if the test failed.Mr.
Iseminger expressed the concerns of the commission regarding the
capacity of the old bridge.Mr.Iseminger stated that the
Commission would only act on the first 20 lots.Mr.Zombro moved
to grant final approval of the 20 lots contingent on Health
Department approval.Seconded by Mr.Spickler.So ordered.Mr.
Moser voted no and Mrs.Johnson abstained.
NEW BUSINESS:
Variances:
Steve Gatz (SV-92-18l:
Mr.Schreiber presented the variance request for Steve Gatz.The
site is located on the west side of Crystal Falls Drive,
approximately 3,000 feet south of Mt.Aetna Road.The
classification of Crystal Falls Drive is local.The variance is
being requested from Section 405.11.G.5 of the Subdivision
Ordinance.This request is to create a 2.6 acre lot with an 830
foot panhandle due to the irregular shape of the lot.There will
be approximately 3 acres remaining.The property is zoned
Conservation,however,there is public water available from the Mt.
Aetna Water Company so the lot size and setbacks can follow the
Agricultural zone requirements.There was some discussion
regarding the water hookup and if this was a hardship case.Mr.
Schreiber stated that the hardship was the irregular shape of the
lot.There was further discussion regarding the origination of the
lot and the water hookup and if there are any other lots with
similar configuration in the area.Mr.Schreiber stated that there
are other lots in the area that could be resubdivided.Mr.
Iseminger stated he was concerned in setting a precedent in that
area if this variance was granted.The Commission felt that these
lots were originally created under Conservation zoning with the
intent that they would be larger than 3 acres.Mr.Spickler made
a motion to deny the variance.Seconded by Carol Johnson.So
ordered.
Gloria Wolford (SV-92-19):
Mr.Schreiber presented the variance request for Gloria Wolford.
The site is located on the north side of Mt.Tabor Church Road,
approximately 300 feet west of Kaiser Ridge Road.The applicable
restriction in this case is when a lot is created for family
members without road frontage,the lot shall stay in the family for
a period of 5 years.This is contrary to what is now in effect.
It is now 10 years as per Section 405.11.B.l of the Subdivision
Ordinance.This request is for the current owners,who are members
of the Gloria Wolford family,to convey the lot outside of the
immediate family with approximately 1 year and 9 months remaining
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out of the original agreement that was signed by Gloria Wolford in
1989.Their hardship is enclosed in the packet handed out.A
discussion was held regarding the right-of-way involved.Mr.
Zombro moved to grant the variance request.Seconded by Mrs.
Johnson.So ordered.
FMW Partnership:
Mr.Goodrich presented the variance request for FMW Partnership,
the developers of Crosspoint.The site is bounded on the west by
I-8l,on the east by U.S.Rt.II/Conrail,on the north by Cole Road
and the Valley Mall and on the south by Eckstine Road.The
variance is requested for Section 4 of Crosspoint.The request is
to create 54+townhouse lots without public road frontage.The
lots will be fronting on the interior access roads in the
development.This design and request for variance are not unusual.
Mr.Goodrich stated that the common areas will be maintained by
the homeowners association.Mr.Moser stated that the Commission
has granted this type of variance before.It was suggested that
the staff investigate an amendment to the Subdivision Ordinance to
address the situation.There was a discussion regarding reviewing
the proposed homeowner's association covenants and driveway and
parking standards.Mr.Moser made a motion to grant the variance.
Seconded by Mr.Zombro.So ordered.
Millyyille (SV-92-20\:
Mr.Schreiber explained the variance request for Ted Kretzer.The
site is located on the south side of U.S.Route 40 about one-half
mile west of Ashton Road.The variance is being requested from
Section 405.2.A all new accesses along minor collectors shall be
.spaced at 500 foot intervals.The request is to reduce the 500
foot separation down to approximately 150 feet to serve 4 lots.
Mr.Schreiber explained what had been previously reviewed in the
preliminary consultation.There was a discussion regarding the
other properties in the area,the site distance and environmental
constraints and other design options.There was a discussion
concerning if this is a hardship and if the owner plans to
subdivide the remaining land.Mr.Moser moved to deny the
variance.Seconded by Carol Johnson.So ordered.
Subdivisions:
Woodbridge:
Mr.Lung presented the subdivision plat for Woodbridge,Section A
for preliminary approval.The site is located on the northeast
side of Robinwood Drive.The applicant is proposing to create 156
single family lots and a commercial lot in this phase.A revised
P.U.D.concept plan was approved in February 1990.The lot
requirements for a P.U.D.were explained.Public water and sewer
will serve the lots.The required off-site improvements and the
County Engineer's request that provision be made for the possible
future connection of Rambling Pines Place (a cul-de-sac)to Keefer
Funk Road were discussed.Storm water management will be handled
by two on site facilities.The commercial parcel will require site
plan approval before any development can be approved.The P.U.D.
requirements for phasing the commercial development to the
residential development were discussed.There is a 5 acre parcel
in the middle of the development,which belongs to the Washington
County Association of Retarded Citizens.A stipulation when the
concept plan was given approval,was that this 5 acre parcel be
provided road frontage,which has been done via a simplified
conveyance.All agency approvals have been received.Applicant is
requesting preliminary subdivision approval.There was a
discussion regarding the purpose of the future connection to Keefer
Funk Road.Mr.Spickler made a motion to grant preliminary
approval.Seconded by Mr.Moser.So ordered.
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Locust Place:
Mrs.Pietro presented the preliminary and final subdivision plat
for Locust Place,lots 1 through 5.The site is located on the
north side of Robinwood Drive,zoning is Residential.These 5 lots
are located at the bottom of Varsity Lane,which is part of
Rosewood.The developer is proposing 5 single family lots.Total
area of the subdivision is 2 acres.There are no existing
structures on the property,public sewer and water will serve the
property.AIlS lots will access onto Varsity Lane.All approvals
have been received.There was a discussion regarding the location
of the property.Mr.Zombro moved to grant preliminary and final
plat approval.Seconded by Carol Johnson.So ordered.
Richard Huntzberry:
Mrs.Pietro presented the preliminary and final subdivision plat
for Richard Huntzberry,for lots I through 3.The site is located
on the north side of Republican Avenue,west of Rt.66 near
Cavetown.The zoning is agriculture.The developer is proposing
to create 3 lots,sizes between 2.5 and 3 acres with a 3 acre
remainder.There are no existing houses on the proposed lots.
There is a duplex on the remainder.All lots will be served by
individual wells and septic systems.The 2 panhandle lots meet
all the requirements.All agency approvals have been received.
There was a discussion regarding what had been previously proposed
and how this present plat has been changed.Mr.Zombro made a
motion to grant preliminary and final plat approval.Seconded by
Mr.Spickler.So ordered.
Ralph Stotler:
Mr.Schreiber presented the preliminary and final subdivision plat
for Ralph Stotler,lots 1 through 4 and parcel A.The site is
located on the northeast corner of Whitehall Road and Mt.Aetna
Road.Zoning is Agricultural.The comprehensive plan designation
is Rural Agricultural.The site consists of 14 acres.The lots
will range from 1 to 8.3 acres.White Hall Road is a local road.
Twenty-five feet of road dedication will be required.The site
will utilize Greenbriar Elementary,Smi thsburg Middle and
Smithsburg High Schools.It is utilizing private well and septic
systems and is exempt from adequate facilities ordinance by Section
5.B of the Road Adequacy Policy.All agency approvals have been
received.The remaining lands are 14.6 acres.There was a
discussion regarding the exemption from the Adequate Facilities
Ordinance.Mr.Zombro moved to grant preliminary and final
approval.Seconded by Carol Johnson.So ordered.
Agricultural Land Preservation District Applications:
Mr.Seifarth presented two requests for agricultural land
preservation districts.The first request was for Maurice and
Betty Williams (AD 92-9).This is a dairy operation and is located
in the Big Spring area and is contiguous to two other Ag Districts
and consists of 100.75 acres.The property is located outside of
the urban and town growth areas and has no water and sewer.It has
been approved by the Advisory Board.
The second request is for Lisa Leather (AD 92-10).This is a dairy
operation and is located along the north side of Spielman Road (MD
63)1 mile east of Downsville and consists of 178.91 acres.The
property is outside of the urban and town growth areas and has no
water and sewer.Mr.Spickler moved to recommend the two districts
to the Commissioners.Seconded by Mr.Moser.So ordered.
Mr.Iseminger asked Mr.Seifarth to give an update on the
Agricultural Program Certification whereby the County will receive
an additional 42 percent of agricultural transfer tax money.Mr.
Seifarth stated,since the meeting he,Mr.Arch and Mr.Goodrich
had with the State Planning,he has been in touch with the State
numerous times in the past two months.The State is concerned with
our zoning ordinance regulations as they pertain to agriculture.
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They do not feel the designated areas are restrictive enough.Mr.
Seifarth explained what he has done to comply with their requests.197
They will meet again in October.The State has been informed that
the Planning Commission would like to be certified by the end of
the year.The State does not see a problem.There was some
discussion on the State being low on funding.Mr.Spickler
discussed reconvening the blue ribbon Study Committee that was in
existence two years ago.The Planning Commission will write a
letter to the Board of County Commissioners to request the
reconvening of the Study Committee.There was a discussion
regarding a special meeting with the Ag Preservation group and the
Planning Commission.Mr.Seifarth will call the Chairman of the Ag
Preservation group to arrange this.
Other Business
James Wade Site Plan:
Mr.Goodrich referred to a letter from Fred Frederick,consultant,
regarding a proposed liquor store on the west side of Sharpsburg
Pike,south of the interchange with Interstate 70.Mr.Frederick
is requesting that the Commission give the staff the authority to
grant site plan approval when it is ready to be approved instead of
waiting until a regularly scheduled meeting.Mr.Frederick
explained the history of the site,what they have gone through with
the Board of Zoning Appeals and other agencies,and changes which
have been made to the site plan and what changes and improvements
will be made to the property.There was some discussion regarding
the location and screening.Mr.Spickler moved to approve the site
plan contingent upon all requirements being met.Seconded by Mrs.
Johnson.Mr.Ernst abstained.So ordered.
Continental Investment Corporation:
Mr.Iseminger referred to the letter from Mr.Mosher regarding
Continental Investment Corporation,for information purposes only.
So noted.
Recycling Text Amendment:
Mr.Goodrich presented the current proposed wording for the
amendment to the zoning ordinance,which would go into the section
describing Site Plan requirements,Section 4.11 of the zoning
Ordinance.There was some discussion regarding the wording.Mr.
Spickler suggested changing the word "may"to "will"and eliminate
the last sentence.The revision will be presented to the Solid
Waste Advisory Board and then presented at the upcoming workshop
meeting.The text amendment will be presented at the November 9th
rezoning hearing,schedules permitting.
Millyyille:
Mr.Ted Kretzer,the owner of Millyville,arrived after his
variance had been heard.The Planning Commission informed him that
his request was denied due to lack of hardship.Mr.Kretzer was
advised if he had any questions to speak to the planning staff.
Board of Education Request:
Mr.Arch presented the Board of Education's request for permission
to use the preliminary site plan approval process for the
renovation of the Paramount School.There was a similar request at
the last meeting,which was granted.There was a discussion
regarding the benefits to Paramount School by proceeding this way.
Mr.Moser moved to grant permission.Seconded by Mr.Spickler.
So ordered.
Workshop Meeting:
Mr.Arch reviewed with the Commission the upcoming items:forest
conservation,solid waste management plan,sewer and water plan,
rezoning hearings,the joint meeting with the Boonsboro Planning
Commission on October 19th,trying to schedule a meeting with
Frederick County Planning Commission and in December they will
start with the Public meetings for the Highway Interchange Study.
There was some discussion regarding the items which need to be
covered at a workshop.Mr.Arch discussed the State deadlines for
meeting the first two requirements of the new Planning Act.The
workshop meeting was scheduled for Monday,October 26,1992 at 5:30
P.M.first floor conference room.There was further discussion
regarding scheduling the meeting with Frederick County.
Mr.Arch discussed the copy the City of Hagerstown Downtown
Improvement Study and asked if there were any comments.Neither
the staff nor the Planning Commission had any comments.
Adjournment:
There being no further business,the meeting adjourned at 9:30 P.M.
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JOINT MEETING
WASHINGTON COUNTY AND BOONSBORO PLANNING COMMISSIONS
OCTOBER 19,1992
The Washington County and Boonsboro Planning Commissions held a
joint meeting on Monday October 19,1992 at 7:00 P.M.in the first
floor conference room of the County Administration Building.
Members present were:(Washington County)Chairman;Bertrand L.
Iseminger,Vice-Chairman;Donald E.Zombro,Ex-Officio;Ronald L.
Bowers,Bernard Moser,Donald Spickler,Robert Ernst,II and Carol
Johnson.Staff:Director;Robert C.Arch,Associate Planner;Jim
Brittain.(Boonsboro)Bob Synder,Dick Gross,Linda Green and John
Clark.
CALL TO ORDER:
The meeting was called to order by the Chairman at 7:00 P.M.
OTHER BUSINESS:
Mr.Arch stated the purpose of this joint meeting was to exchange
ideas on mutually similar problems and issues including amendments
to the Transportation Plan for the Boonsboro by-pass and the
addressing of the requirements of the Planning Act of 1992.
Amendment to the Transportation Plan for the Boonsboro By-Pass:
Mr.Brittain referred to copies of the Planning Act and other
municipal related material,which had been distributed.Mr.
Brittain presented a portion of the County Highway Plan for the
Boonsboro area showing the 5 minor arterials that lead into
Boonsboro and proceeded to explain the proposed plan in detail and
gave a description of the proposed by-pass around Boonsboro.Mr.
Brittain stated that in discussions with the Boonsboro Planning
Commission they tried to determine their primary objective and
decided they needed a method to move traffic from MD Rt.67 to MD
Rt.68.Secondary consideration was Alt.Rt.40 to MD Rt.66 and
MD Rt.67 to Alt.Rt.40.Mr.Brittain stated they took into
consideration the economic and environmental impact when evaluating
the alignment.The Commission did not want an alignment that would
affect existing houses but could be incorporated into proposed
developments.He pointed to several parcels that are currently
vacant,but stated there are several potential developments in
those areas.Mr.Brittain further stated that if these properties
were utilized,a road could be run from MD Rt.67 to MD Rt.68.
Mr.Brittain stated that the growth pattern and the development of
utilities lends itself to the area he suggested for the by-pass.
Mrs.Johnson asked how the by-pass around Boonsboro would impact on
the Town's economy.Mr.Brittain stated that Boonsboro's Main
Street is congested but they are currently handling the traffic.
When the tracts of land (previously referred to)are developed,the
Town would be able to connect them with the road and by-pass Main
Street.He stated the purpose is to have a road run parallel to
Rt.40A to serve the growth area and reduce future impacts on the
downtown area.Mr.Brittain felt there would still be enough
traffic to support the downtown businesses.He indicated that
until additional parking is available in the downtown area
revitalization will be restricted and referred to Leroy Burtner of
EDC for further comments.
Mr.Synder commented that the Town Center zoning is locked in and
cannot grow any larger.He stated Boonsboro currently has nearly
100 percent occupancy and felt that by-passing the downtown may
actually help as far as parking is concerned.Mr.Iseminger asked
if there are sufficient services available in the immediate area to
service the residents of Boonsboro.Mr.Synder stated yes and that
the areas Mr.Brittain pointed out for future development would
include commercial areas,i.e.grocery stores,etc.Mr.Brittain
referred to the Town's Comprehensive Plan along the by-pass
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stating that there are indications to provide commercial
Mr.Iseminger asked if this was the only alignment
Mr.Brittain stated that three were reviewed.
Mr.Brittain stated he recently met with Gary Rohrer,Terry McGee
and Bob Arch regarding the alignment.It was felt that step 1
should be to set a general alignment that all parties can agree
upon.Terry McGee's recommendation is a corridor about 300 feet in
width based on the·proposed alignment.Aerial photogrammetry would
be obtained so he could engineer and set an alignment.After
agreement is obtained on the centerline,a public hearing would
have to be held to amend the County Highway Plan.
Mr.Arch pointed out that the property involved is primarily in the
County and that is why it is before a joint meeting.Mr.Iseminger
stated he is not sure if the by-pass will achieve what they are
hoping for and is afraid it will be like Eastern Boulevard and do
nothing but encourage development along the new road.Mr.
Iseminger stated the by-pass should go from Rt.40A to Rt.40A,by
shifting it out.A discussion followed.Mr.Moser stated that
what is being proposed is actually to handle the growth and
alleviate some of the existing traffic conditions.He asked if the
Town is looking for developer participation in the by-pass.A
discussion followed regarding what the Town of Boonsboro was trying
to achieve by using this design and future developments.Mr.
Synder stated the Town of Boonsboro feels the most important
opjective is to get a dedicated right-of-way.A discussion
followed regarding road construction and who will pay for it.Mr.
Brittain stated it is the intention of the Town of Boonsboro to
have the developers construct the portion traversing their parcel.
Mr.Synder stated there may be a section that will not tie to Rt.
34 and years from now that section may have to be built with public
funds.Mr.Brittain stated it is felt that all parcels along the
by-pass will be annexed into the Town at some future date.The
entire corridor is within the Boonsboro TGA.The Town will request
each developer to provide a 100 foot right-of-way and construct the
road (paving width)to handle their development.As the Town and
County grow,the average daily traffic will increase to the point
where Government will have to widen the road at some point.Mr.
Iseminger suggested planning now to have the agreements in place
with the people who will be widening the road at some point.Mr.
Moser asked if what they wanted was a 100 foot right-of-way with 60
feet of it being constructed by the developer.Mr.Brittain stated
the developer's requirement would be based upon the level of
development.Mr.Synder stated the Town of Boonsboro wants the
alignment set and built as development requires.He stated as far
as setting a time frame for when this road should be built depends
on how fast development comes in.Mr.Iseminger asked if any
action was required by the Planning Commission.The Planning
Commission is in favor of what was presented.No action was
required at this time.Mr.Arch stated the staff is currently
working with the County Engineer to set an alignment.Once that is
done,they will set up a public hearing.
Deadlines:
Mr.Arch stated that on December 1,1992 both the Town and the
County must have in place a mechanism for looking at potential
Capital Improvement projects for consistency with the Comprehensive
Plan.
Mr.Arch stated that by December 31,1992 both the Town and the
County must have to the State an outline of a schedule for meeting
the implementation requirements for the new visions.
Forest Conservation Bill:
The next item discussed was the Forest Conservation Bill,which
will be presented at the October 26,1992 special meeting.Mr.
Arch reviewed the items that will be on that agenda.One of them
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interested in establishing a larger committee.
Mr.Moser wanted to know,regarding the Water and Sewer Plan,if
the Town of Boonsboro requested water and sewer designation for the
remainder of the growth area outside the town.Mr.Brittain
indicated designations were proposed only for proposed development
and not the entire area.A discussion followed.Mr.Arch stated
that they are looking to create two new classifications within the
Water and Sewer Plan update.The first one will address areas
outside the Urban Growth and Town Growth areas.The second item is
to create another designation inside the Urban Growth area.This
would give a blanket classification.A discussion followed.
Mr.Iseminger asked if the Boonsboro Planning Commission had any
questions.Mr.Synder stated no,and thanked the Commission for
giving them the opportunity to air their concerns regarding the
bypass.
ADJOURNMENT:
There being no further business,the meeting adjourned at 9:00 P.M.
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WASHINGTON COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION
SPECIAL MEETING -OCTOBER 26,1992
The Washington County Planning Commission held a special meeting on
Monday,October 26,1992 in the first floor conference room of the
County Administration Building.
Members present were:Chairman;Bertrand L.Iseminger,Vice-
Chairman;Donald E.Zombro,Bernard Moser,Donald Spickler,Carol
Johnson and Robert Ernst,II.Ronald L.Bowers was absent.Staff:
Director;Robert C.Arch,Senior Planner;Stephen T.Goodrich and
Secretary,Deborah S.Kirkpatrick.
CALL TO ORDER:
The meeting was called to order by the Chairman at 5:30 P.M.
FIRST ITEM:
Demolition Permits:
Mr.Goodrich explained the County Commissioner's policy of 1989
regarding the review of demolition permit applications.Mr.
Goodrich stated the two applications being presented tonight are on
-the Historic Site Survey and have been reviewed by the Historic
District Commission.Mr.Goodrich reviewed the applications as
follows:
1)92-6568 -Church of the Brethren Campground on Taylors Landing
Road.The Historic District Commission voted to voice no
opposition to the demolition.Mr.Spickler made a motion to accept
the recommendation to not oppose the demolition permit.Seconded
by Mr.Zombro.So ordered.
2)92-6809 -The Estate of Irene B.Fulton,17718 Virginia Avenue.
Mr.Goodrich stated that this house is located on part of the site
that is to be developed as the Virginia Avenue Food Lion.The
Historic District Commission is not in favor of demolition.Mr.
Goodrich stated that Mr.Fulton,representing the owner,did not
have a chance to speak at that meeting.Mr.Goodrich stated that
the Historic District Commission felt that it was not necessary for
the building to come down at all.Mr.Goodrich explained the
purpose of the County Survey.There was a discussion regarding the
location of the house and whether it has historical significance.
Mr.Fulton,representing the owner,stated that he grew up next to
the subject house and was not aware of any historical significance.
He also stated that the subject house had been used as a rental
property,is in poor condition and felt that it is not compatible
with the surrounding area.There was a discussion regarding the
purpose of the County Survey,the demolition permit policy and
whether the property had potential for restoration.Mr.Fulton
stated the property had no restoration potential.He pointed out
that the property had previously gone before the Commission for
site plan approval (granted),had been rezoned and at that time
everyone was aware the property would be torn down.A discussion
followed.Mr.Iseminger stated that the comments of the Historic
District Commission and the Planning Commission regarding the
demolition permit are not binding to the owner and are for
information only,so that the owner can think about other courses
of action.Mr.Iseminger stated that in light of the development
in the area,he felt there is not much value in retaining the
structure.A discussion followed regarding the grading and siting
of Food Lion on the property.Mr.Zombro moved to not endorse the
Historic District Commission's decision.Seconded by Mr.Spickler.
Mr.Ernst abstained.So ordered.
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Letter from Agricultural Advisory Board:
Mr.Arch reviewed the letter with the Commission.Mr.Arch stated
that the Advisory Board is not interested in reconvening a large
commi ttee.Mr.Spickler stated that was not the point of the
Planning Commission's request.The Planning Commission wanted the
Advisory Board to consider the alternatives to the Agriculture Land
Preservation Program,since the State program is in demise and
there other things the County can do.After a discussion,Mr.Arch
suggested going on record to express concerns and forward it to the
Advisory Board for consideration.There was further discussion
regarding the memo and what the Planning Commission wanted to
achieve and alternatives to down zoning.Mr.Iseminger stated that
should be the subject of another workshop meeting.Mr.Spickler
suggested waiting until next year.Mr.Arch stated that there is
another meeting coming up on the State certification.Mr.Goodrich
discussed what Eric Seifarth has done to date and what they are
waiting on.A discussion followed.
Mr.Iseminger stated that even though it is not on the agenda,he
wanted to mention there is a Public Information hearing on the
Forest Conservation Plan tentatively scheduled for November 16.
Mr.Arch stated that this hearing is for information only and that
the formal hearing would be at a later date.Mr.Goodrich stated
that the purpose of the public information hearing was to
distribute the ordinance and allow the public to hear a general
explanation of the bill and ask questions.There was a discussion
concerning the date of the information hearing and other items that
need to be addressed.Mr.Zombro suggested having the public
information hearing on Tuesday,November 17,1992.Mr.Goodrich
stated he will make arrangements to hold the meeting at the Jr.
College.
Mr.Iseminger asked if the memo from Rich Kautz regarding the
Comprehensive Plan is just for information.Mr.Arch answered yes.
Forest Conservation:
Mr.Goodrich passed out a second copy of the draft of the Forest
Conservation Ordinance to the Planning Commission noting it was
printed without the additions and deletions.Mr.Goodrich stated
that the draft he previously gave to the Commission was the State's
model with the Planning Department's deletions and completions.
Mr.Goodrich stated that in 1991 the State adopted the Forest
Conservation Act.The act required each county to adopt a local
forest conservation program by January 1993.Mr.Goodrich further
stated that the Planning Department was unable to start working on
it until final regulations were adopted in February of 1992.
Mr.Goodrich explained the purpose of the law.He stated there are
three factors that govern what must be done:1)The type of
development 2)Whether there are trees on the site (the criteria
is different if there are no trees)and 3)How many of the trees
are planned to be removed during development.These three items
will govern how many trees can be taken out and how many have to be
planted.Mr.Goodrich stated that the purpose of the meeting
tonight was to give the Planning Commission a general overview of
how the program works and concentrate on some of the Commission'S
responsibili ties.Mr.Goodrich asked the Commission to think about
the possibility of how this ordinance can be used to further the
Comprehensive Plan goals.
Mr.Goodrich reviewed several of the terms that are often used in
the Plan such as Forest Stand Delineation,Forest Conservation
plan,Declaration of Intent,Maintenance Agreement and Protective
Agreement.
Mr.Goodrich presented a general overview of the Plan.He
referred to page 11,Section 3.1A where it specifies the
applicability of the Ordinance to subdivisions,site plans or site
grading on parcels of land that are 40,000 square feet or greater.
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There are 16 exemptions.He reviewed some of the more pertinent
ones such as activity on lots that are less than 40,000 square
feet,simplified subdivisions,and applications that are made
before the effective date of the ordinance.There was a lengthy
discussion regarding the difference between the County draft,which
would exempt land use proposals from the Ordinance if a Preliminary
Consultation was held before the effective date and the State
model,which indicates preliminary plan submittal as the goal to
meet before January 1993 for exemption.
Some Commission members appeared ready to remove the Preliminary
Consultation as an exempting step while others wished to complete
the review before deciding.
Mr.Goodrich stated that some of the other exemptions are:lots
that go to immediate family members,disturbing less than 40,000
square feet of forest;and development on an existing single lot of
any size if you disturb less than 40,000 square feet of forest.
Agricultural activities are also exempt under certain conditions.
Mr.Goodrich stated that there would be a checklist for the
Planning Department and Permits Office to use in determining
applicants.He said that once it is determined that the ordinance
is applicable,the owner must present a Forest Stand delineation,
which is an inventory and prioritization of the tree cover on the
site.The delineation is set up as a separate step,so priorities
can be determined before design of the subdivision or a site plan.
The Delineation is to be approved by the Department,meaning the
"Planning Commission.Mr.Iseminger asked who prepares the
delineation plan.Mr.Goodrich stated that this plan is prepared
by landscape architects,foresters and several other professionals
that meet specific qualification stated in the Ordinance.There
was discussion regarding who prepared the manual and if there was
a need for the Planning Commission to hire additional staff.Mr.
Arch stated that at this time the Planners will have to handle this
and that the staff will undergo additional training.There was a
discussion regarding the Planning Commission going to a DNR
workshop.
Mr.Goodrich stated that the next step is the Forest Conservation
Plan.He said that this section is where the biggest Planning
Commission responsibility lies.If the applicant proposes to make
a payment instead of planting,the Commission must decide if that
is appropriate.A discussion followed.Mr.Goodrich stated that
the guidance for the Planning Commission to follow in deciding
whether the developer pays or plants is contained in Articles 8 and
10.The rest of the ordinance was briefly discussed.
Mr.Arch stated that site inspection will be the responsibility of
Engineering Department and bonding will be the responsibility of
Permi ts Department.The Planners will do the plan review and
client contact.
Mr.Goodrich next explained the numerical standards and how they
apply to a particular site.He presented examples for both
afforestation and reforestation,the breakeven point and the
reforestation thresholds as per the guidelines of the ordinance.
A discussion followed.Mr.Iseminger stated this seems to be
contrary to what the Comprehensive Plan states.This leads to the
question of whether the Planning Commission wished to use this
ordinance to discourage development in the agricultural areas.The
threshold and the minimum afforestation levels could be raised in
the rural areas to a point where it would encourage developers
to go to the growth areas.Mr.Iseminger stated his opinion that
lands outside of the Urban Growth Area should have the thresholds
increased.Mr.Spickler stated he does not feel that an ordinance
designed to protect trees should be used to achieve another agenda.
A discussion followed.Mr.Iseminger suggested adding to the
agricultural resource areas definition the special planning areas,
noted in the Comprehensive Plan such as water sheds,Appalachian
Trail,Edgemont Reservoir.
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Mr.Iseminger asked if special planning areas should be put in.
There was a discussion regarding putting special areas in and the
difficulty of implementing it and what areas would be included.
Mr.Moser moved to delete the Preliminary Consultation as exempting
submittals from requirement of the Ordinance from the draft.
Seconded by Carol Johnson.So ordered.
Mr.Iseminger proposed to add Special Planning areas to the same
afforestation and reforestation levels as the agricultural and
resource areas.Seconded by Mr.Moser.So ordered.
Mr.Moser stated that he will not be attending the next regular
Planning Commission Meeting to be held on November 2,1992.There
was a discussion regarding the rezoning cases and if there would be
enough members in attendance.Mr.Iseminger stated,since they
will be at the Rezoning meeting on the 10th that they should
postpone hearing the rezoning cases until then.Mr.Arch stated
that the staff reports will be handed out at the November 2,1992
meeting.It was agreed to review the zoning cases at the November
10,1992 meeting.
ADJOURNMENT:
There being no further business,
adjourn the meeting at 7:45 P.M.
ordered.
Mr.Zombro made a motion to
Seconded by Mr.Spickler.So
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WASHINGTON COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION
REGULAR MEETING -NOVEMBER 2,1992
The Washington County Planning Commission held its regular monthly
meeting on Monday,November 2,1992 in the first floor conference
room of the County Administration Building.
Members present were:Chairman;Bertrand L.Iseminger,Vice-
Chairman;Donald E.Zombro,EX-Officio;Ronald L.Bowers,Donald
Spickler,Carol Johnson and Robert Ernst,II.Staff:Director;
Robert C.Arch,Senior Planner;Stephen T.Goodrich,Associate
Planners:Edward Schreiber,Lisa Kelly Pietro,Timothy A.Lung and
Secretary,Deborah S.Kirkpatrick.Absent was Bernard Moser.
CALL TO ORDER:
The meeting was called to order by the Chairman at 7:00 P.M.
MINUTES:
Mr.Spickler referred to page 5 under James Wade Site Plan and
stated that the following be added after "requirements being met":
"the staff given authority to approve".Mr.Iseminger stated
starting on page 2 so moved should be changed to so ordered.Steve
Gatz,Gloria Wolford,FMW partnership,Millyville,Locust Place,
Huntzberry,Stotler,Agricultural Land Preservation District
Application,James Wade Site Plan,Board of Education Request.
Motion to approve.Seconded by Carol Johnson.So Ordered.
Before proceeding,Mr.Arch stated that Mr.Fred Papa requested to
add F&M Partnership under Other Business to next Tuesday'S agenda
for the special meeting to look at the rezoning request.Mr.Arch
stated that the other items on the agenda are items 3,4,5,6,7
and 8 under Other Business of tonight's agenda.Mr.Papa stated
that the site plan was submitted a month ago and that the planning
staff did not have time to review the plan in time to make the
November agenda.Mr.Papa stated he does not want to wait until
the December meeting in case there are significant changes.Mr.
Iseminger asked the Commission how they felt about addressing this
item before the rezoning meeting.Mr.Arch suggested answering
this at the end of the rezoning meeting.Discussion followed.Mr.
Iseminger stated his concern in taking action on a preliminary site
plan until action takes place on the rezoning.Mr.Arch agreed.
A discussion followed.Mr.Iseminger asked the Commission how they
fel t reviewing the site plan on November 17 before the public
hearing.All Commission members agreed to review the site plan on
November 17,1992 at 6:30 p.m.
Mr.Iseminger stated that the rezonings for FMW Partnership,St.
James Corporation,Potomac Edison Company,Wayne and Carol Gersen,
Bowman Development and Essential Utilities will be heard on
November 10,1992 at 3:00 p.m.in the first floor conference room,
after the joint session with the County Commissioners.Discussion
followed.
NEW BUSINESS:
Variances:
Calvin Mills (SV-92-023):
Mr.Schreiber presented the variance request for Calvin Mills.The
site is located on the north side of Maryland Route 68,
approximately 400 feet west of Ashton Road.The classification of
Maryland Route 68 is major collector.The variance is being
requested from Section 405.2A of the Subdivision Ordinance.This
request is to create another driveway within an existing driveway
access (within 100 feet).The original lot consists of
approximately 3 acres,2 acres will be remaining,1 acre in the new
lot.Zoning is Agriculture.This request is not to avoid a safety
problem.Mr.Frederick of Frederick,Seibert and Associates stated
that Mr.Mills wants to convey the lot to his son.This property
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cannot be further subdivided.Mr.Frederick stated that the
hardship is that they have no more road frontage.Mr.Iseminger
asked if they will put the stipulation on the plat that it is
conveyed to a family member for at least 10 years.Mr.Mills
stated he would do that.Mr.Bowers moved to grant the variance
contingent on Mr.Mills agreeing to the ten year stipulation for a
family member.Seconded by Mr.Zombro.So ordered.
Kenneth L.Myers,Sr.(SV-92-0211:
Mrs.Pietro presented the variance request for Kenneth L.Myers,
Sr.The site is located on the south side of MD Route 56,(Big
Pool Road)approximately 1800 feet west of Garrison Hollow Road.
The classification of MD Route 56 is minor collector.The variance
is being requested from Section 405.IIB of the Subdivision
Ordinance.Mrs.Pietro reminded the planning Commission that a
concept plan had been previously shown to them this past summer.
Mrs.Pietro stated that State Highway had concerns about poor site
distance for Lot 6.A copy of their comments is enclosed in the
agenda packet.Regarding the remainder,State Highway is concerned
about limiting the number of accesses along the road for any future
use.There are no future plans at this time for expansion,What
is being proposed is that Lot 6 have access off the combined
entrance serving Lots 9 and 8 and come to the rear of Lot 6.That
is what State Highway recommended.State Highway has approved the
accesses for the other 4 lots.Mr.Iseminger asked if there is any
other way to create the lots.Mr.Daniel Gehr,consultant,stated
this is the only way and that Mr.Wolford from State Highway
.Administration recommended the design on this plat.A discussion
followed regarding access of the lots and further subdivision.
Mr.Iseminger proposed granting the variance contingent upon a 50
foot right-of-way being reserved to serve lots 6,8 and 9 and any
future subdivision.If the property is further subdivided,the
road will be built at that time according to County standards.Mr.
Myers agreed to do so.Mr.Gehr asked if they will have to change
their design to accomodate the right-of-way.Mr.Iseminger
answered yes.A discussion followed.Mr.Zombro moved to grant
the variance contingent upon reserving a 50 foot right-of-way and
if the property was further subdivided that the road be built at
that time according to County standards.Seconded by Mr.Bowers.
So ordered.
Subdivision:
Woodbridge Section B -Preliminary Plat and Site Plan:
Mr.Lung presented the Preliminary Plat and Site Plan for
Woodbridge,Section B,Townhouse section.The site is located on
the east side of Robinwood Drive,north of the Jr.College.Mr.
Lung stated that a revised PUD concept plan for the entire
development was approved in February 1990,the preliminary
subdivision plat for Section A was approved at the September
meeting (156 single family lots and commercial site).Mr.Lung
stated that the townhouse section consists of 116 townhouses to be
located on a total of 14 acres.Access to the development will be
from Woodbridge Drive,which is a public road to be built to
collector standards.The townhouse section will be developed in
three clusters,with each cluster having access off Woodbridge
Drive.The access roads to each cluster will be private and built
by the developer and upon completion of the development will become
the responsibility of a homeowners association for ownership and
maintenance.Mr.Lung explained that the Planning Commission
approved a variance in February 1990 to allow the townhouse lots to
front on a private street.There is a total of 20 townhouse blocks
with 4 to 8 townhouses in each block.The average lot measures
approximately 80'x 20'and contains 1600 square feet of land.The
end lots are larger.Landscaping will be provided on the
individual lots as well as throughout the common open space areas.
The site plan shows existing trees and vegetation that will remain
where practical.Diagonal parking is provided in front of the
townhouse lots.There is also recreational vehicle parking
interspersed wi thin the main parking area,Lighting is provided in
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the parking lots as well as along the pedestrian walkways
throughout the development.Mr.Lung stated his concern that there
is no pedestrian access provided to the commercial area.Public
water and sewer will be provided.The Homeowners Association will
be responsible for the ownership and maintenance of the private
access roads,parking areas,open space,play areas,etc.The
Homeowners Association documents have been reviewed by the County
Attorney and have been approved.Stormwater management is being
taken care of on site,as indicated on the plat.All the
appropriate agencies have responded with approvals to the
Preliminary Subdivision plat except for the County Engineer,which
is still outstanding.Engineering has signed off on the site plan.
Water Department and Soil Conservation signatures are also needed
for the site plan.Mr.Lung stated the applicant "is requesting
approval contingent on the outstanding approval letters and
signatures being received.Mr.Iseminger asked about provision for
trash collection.The plat indicates collection will be on an
individual basis.A discussion followed regarding trash
collection.Mr.Holsinger stated that he would work with the
planning staff to find areas within the development to locate
dumpsters.A discussion followed regarding the location of the
sidewalks and school bus stop.Based on discussions with the Board
of County Commissioners,the developer will share in the cost of a
new traffic signal at Robinwood Drive.A discussion followed.Mr.
Iseminger stated that crosswalks should be marked on the pavement
where sidewalks cross the road.There was a discussion regarding
the location of the storm water management facilities and their
closeness to the play areas.Mr.Holsinger stated that the basins
are shallow in depth and stated that the County Engineer has not
recommended fencing.Mr.Iseminger asked Mr.Holsinger if he was
willing to work with the planning staff on the various issues
discussed.Mr.Holsinger stated that they would find space for
dumpsters,saw no problem with marking the crosswalks and provision
for pedestrian access to the commercial area.Mr.Bowers moved to
approve the Preliminary Plat and Site Plan contingent on approvals
from Engineering Department,Water Department,Soil Conservation
and that the comments expressed by the Commission to be addressed.
If it is not to the Planning Staff's satisfaction,the plan shall
come back to the Planning Commission.Seconded by Mr.Zombro.So
Ordered.
Site Plan:
Hetzer Shale Mine:
Mr.Schreiber presented the site plan for Hetzer Shale Mine.The
site is located on the south side of Clear Spring Road (MD Rt.68),
approximately 1.5 miles west of Conococheague Creek.Zoning is 1M.
The proposed land use is for a shale mine consisting of 32.8 acres,
with 148 acres remaining.The site contains Martinsburg Shale.
Clear Spring Road is a major collector.State Highway
Administration has issued an entrance permit.Mr.Hetzer will
provide an acceleration and deceleration lane onto MD Route 68 with
curb and gutter.In constructing the road,approximately 1.98
acres of wetlands will be disturbed and a wetlands permit has been
approved and the Department of Natural Resources has issued a
mining permit.Mr.Schreiber stated that some of the main concerns
are with the setbacks from MD Route 68 and any adjacent properties.
Mr.Schreiber referred to the plat showing where the mining will
begin and according to the elevations,what will be seen from the
road.Mr.Schreiber explained the further west you go on the
property,the closer the mining operation is to the road and is
more eye level at that point.Mr.Schreiber stated that the
section west of the haul road should have additional landscaping
and pointed to the areas on the plat.Mr.Schreiber stated that
one of the adjacent properties is a Washington County Property -
Pinesburg Softball Field.The Parks Department is looking to
expand it in the future.Mr.Hetzer has agreed to dedicate an area
in exchange for them to mine out the shale first.The County in
addition to receiving land,would also be getting a flat site.Mr.
Schreiber referred to the agreement,which he handed out to the
Planning Commission.Mr.Schreiber stated that the Parks
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Department and the Board of County Commissioners need to address
some of the items.Mr.Schreiber stated that in order to do what
is shown on the plat,they will be grading within the 100 foot
buffer line.The Board of Zoning Appeals will need to approve the
above mentioned.A discussion followed regarding the elevation and
mining.Mr.Hetzer requested that the Commission accept their
basic grading plan for the mining operation,which has been
approved by everyone else concerned.A discussion followed
regarding what is involved with the permit process and wetland
area.Mr.Bowers moved to approve the site plan.Seconded by Mr.
Zombro.Mr.Ernst abstained.The approval is contingent upon
additional landscaping being provided on the north section of the
property along MD Route 68 and working out details on the ballfield
area as outlined in the proposed agreement.So ordered.
Preliminary Consultations:
Theodore Reeder:
Mr.Schreiber stated he had nothing else to add to his written
report and asked if there were any questions.No action was taken
by the Commission.
Mr.Iseminger had a general comment pertaining to all Preliminary
Consultations.He wanted to know if the staff was making it clear
to the developer that when the Preliminary Consultation is brought
before the Planning Commission that it is only for review and
comment.That the Preliminary Consultation is not the last word
"and that they do have an opportunity to comment on it at their
earliest convenience.Mr.Iseminger stated that he wants it made
clear to the consultant and developer that the Planning Commission
will review and may make additional comments.
Beckons Ridge:
Mr.Lung presented the consultation plan and noted that a
preliminary plat has been submitted with the name changed to
Smi thfield Estates.He also noted that the number of lots has been
reduced to 23 due to perc test results.Mr.Lung referred to
Maryland State Highway's comment in the summary regarding the
access of Lot 4 onto MD Route 62.According to the revised plat,
Lots 4 and 6 have been combined with the new lot having interior
road frontage as well as frontage onto MD Route 62 (Lot 5).Mr.
Iseminger agreed with State Highway's recommendation to deny access
onto MD Route 62,since there is a means to accomodate interior
access and due to the fact that MD Route 62 is a heavily traveled
road.Fred Frederick,consultant reviewed the concept with the
Planning Commission.He stated that Lot 5 has excellent site
distance at MD Route 62 in both directions and feels that it is
unfair to deny access since this lot meets all the criteria.He
stated that if only this one lot was being subdivided at this time,
it would be approved for access to MD Route 62.He stated that
most people would want to build on the high point of the property
and the prospective purchaser should have the option to face the
house towards MD Route 62.A discussion followed.Mr.Iseminger
stated that the Planning Commission feels that for safety reasons,
lots should come off interior streets whenever possible rather than
accessing existing major roads in the County and agrees with State
Highway Administration to deny access onto MD Route 62.
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Oakley Acres:
Mr.Lung stated he had nothing else to add to the summary.Mr.
Iseminger had some questions regarding the Historic Advisory
Committee's comments,which were answered by Mr.Goodrich.Mr.
Iseminger asked about the comments regarding improvements to the
road and bridge.Mr.Lung stated that the County Engineer asked
for a traffic impact study if the design of the development stays
above 25 lots.If the design goes below 25 lots,then they will
not be required to do the study.A discussion followed regarding
future subdivision and the VOC problem with wells in the area.Mr.
Iseminger stated his only other concern is whether this is this
part of the Beaver Creek special planning area.Mr.Lung stated
no.No action was taken by the Commission.
Michael Development:
Mr.Schreiber stated that this is Mr.Brittain's preliminary
consultation,which was held on October 19.Mr.Schreiber
explained there was not enough time to include it in the agenda
packet.Mr.Zombro stated that he thought they had set a policy
not review and preliminary consultation unless they had a summary
to review.Mr.Schreiber stated that these are the last 4 lots of
the remaining lands to be developed.Mr.Iseminger stated he
agreed with Mr.Zombro and that in the future if they miss the
deadline,they will have to ask to be added to the agenda.
Mr.Schreiber stated that the site for Michael Development is on
the north side of MD Route 56.The zoning is Agricultural.
Private well and septic systems are proposed for the site,it is
outside of any urban or town growth areas.There are 5 other lots
that front MD Rt.56.Mr.Schreiber stated that the only problems
that did arise is that the SRA changed their original letter
approving 4 lots with 2 joint use driveways to recommending 1
driveway to serve 4 lots.That recommendation would go against
planning staff policy by creating a private street.Mr.Schreiber
stated that the 2 driveway concept as shown is okay except for the
Potomac Edison storage station which has a driveway within 100 feet
of an existing driveway on a minor collector.This reduction in
access spacing would not harm the site due to the limited use of
the existing P.E.driveway.Mr.Schreiber stated the written
summary will be prepared in the next two days,Jim is working on
it.Mr.Iseminger asked Fred what he would like to see.Mr.
Frederick stated that he does not want to see private roads and
likes it the way it is shown.Mr.Frederick stated that the P.E.
substation is used maybe once a week and 87 feet of access spacing
would be more than adequate for the existing use.No action was
taken by the Commission.
Other Business:
Memo from Historic District Commission:
Mr.Goodrich referred to the memo he wrote regarding the Historic
District Commission's request to be provided the same opportunity
to input on subdivision and site plan review at the same time as
the other agencies and have their comments to the Planning
Commission carry additional weight in plan approval.This would be
in an advisory capacity only.They would like to talk to the
Planning Commission more about it.Mr.Iseminger asked if the
staff had any problem with this request.Mr.Goodrich stated that
it would be one more agency involved in the review process and it
would likely call for more work for the Historic Commission.Mr.
Goodrich also stated that it appears that historic resources are
becoming more of a mainstream concern.He stated that if these are
of concern to the citizens of Washington County,then the Planning
Commission should consider including it as part of the review
process.A discussion followed.A concern for increasing the
review period was expressed.There was further discussion.Mr.
Goodrich stated he will convey the Planning Commission's thoughts
and concerns to the Historic District Commission.
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Lakeside Mobile Home Park:
Mr.Arch explained that this is a request to replat a Mobile Home
Park Plat,which was recorded many years ago.The request is to
add 11 mobile home spaces.The location of these spaces are at
points originally recorded as parking areas.The developer is
asking that they be eliminated as parking spaces so that they can
put mobile homes there.Mr.Arch stated that he has spoken to Paul
Prodonovich and reviewed the history of Lakeside Park,summary
enclosed in the agenda packet,and briefly reviewed it with the
Planning Commission.There are basically two questions before the
Planning Commission:
1)The authority of the Planning Commission to act on this request
was reiterated.Mr.Arch stated that the Zoning Board of Appeals
granted expansion of the nonconforming use for 61 lots.The
applicant used up a portion of that grant when a plan was approved
by the Planning Commission for 40 lots.There are still 21 lots
available for expansion.Mr.Arch referred to a letter drafted in
85 -86 by Barry Teach,where the Board of Commissioners had
discussed the original intent when they eliminated mobile home
parks from the Zoning Ordinance.This letter could also be
construed as providing authority for the Planning Commission to act
on this request.
2)Regarding the actual impact on the residents,it was noted that
petitions opposing the request have been submitted.It is
estimated that approximately 132 parking spaces will be eliminated.
The Zoning Ordinance requirement for mobile home parks are 1.25
"parking spaces for each unit.Based on the number of units
approved,a total of 418 spaces is required.Most mobile home
uni ts have 2 parking spaces,plus there are additional parking
spaces in the cul-de-sacs.Mr.Arch stated that new units going in
will have 2 spaces each plus the owner of the park has stated they
will work with the adjacent property owners and anyone who needs
additional spaces.There does not appear to be negative impact,
based on the current parking space requirements for the park.
Pat Reffner,representing the developer spoke,explaining what was
involved in determining the need for additional parking spaces for
the residents.Mr.Spickler had a question about the Board of
Zoning Appeals decision.Mr.Arch stated that 61 units had been
granted,40 had been used and 21 are now available.Mr.Spickler
asked why the development is not being expanded instead of
increasing the density of the development,since expansion was the
original intention of the Board of Zoning Appeals decision.Ms.
Reffner stated that they did not want to develop raw land,since
all the amenities are present in the existing development.A
discussion followed regarding the original intention of the Board
of Zoning Appeals decision.Ms.Reffner stated that it was the
developer's understanding that the empty spaces were actually
developable lots,which they used as parking spaces.Mr.Arch
stated that the recorded plan shows them as parking areas.A
discussion followed.Ms.Reffner stated that the developer has
planned to provide better parking for the mobile units affected by
the request then they have now.She stated they are not taking
anything away from them,in fact they will get more than they now
have.A discussion followed.
Mr.Bowers stated that,at the time that the owner can come to an
agreement with the tenants,then at that time the Planning
Commission can look at the developer's request.Mr.Arch suggested
the Planning Commission make a site inspection to better understand
the request.The Commission members agreed that the developer
should meet with the tenants,come to an agreement and then the
Commission will re-examine the request.Mr.Spickler made a motion
to postpone action until the December meeting.All in agreement.
So ordered.
Mrs.Johnson moved to postpone hearing the rezoning cases until
November 10,1992.Seconded by Don Spickler.So Ordered.
Mr.Arch made a correction of item 2 under Upcoming Meetings.The
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Forest Conservation Information meeting should be November 17.The
dates for the upcoming meetings were reviewed.
Mr.Iseminger asked about the status of the Ag Certification.Mr.
Arch stated they had a meeting last week with the state and the
staff in submitting additional information to address issues
discussed at that meeting.
Mr.Goodrich passed out text for the recycling amendment to the
Commission members.This text is slightly different from last
meeting based on input from the Solid waste Advisory Committee.
Adjournment:
There being no further business,the meeting adjourned at 9:45 P.M.
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WASHINGTON COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION
SPECIAL MEETING -NOVEMBER 10,1992
The Washington County Planning Commission held a special meeting on
Tuesday,November 10,1992 in the first floor conference room of
the County Administration Building.
Members present were:Chairman;Bertrand L.Iseminger,Vice-
Chairman;Donald E.Zombro,Bernard Moser,and Donald Spickler.
Staff:Director;Robert C.Arch,Senior Planner;Stephen T.
Goodrich,Associate Planners:Edward schreiber,James Brittain,
Lisa Kelly Pietro,Timothy Lung and Secretary,Deborah S.
Kirkpatrick.Absent were Ronald L.Bowers,Carol Johnson and
Robert E.Ernst,II.
CALL TO ORDER:
The meeting was called to order by the Chairman at 3:30 P.M.
The special meeting is being held to consider rezoning cases heard
on September 21,1992 and also the Essential Utilities Ordinance
amendment heard on August 4,1992.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS:
Rezoning Cases:
Before proceeding there was a discussion regarding the need for a
voting quorum on all cases.The Planning Commission determined
that since a quorum of the Planning Commission members were
present,the meeting could begin and any member who may have a
conflict with a case should abstain.It was noted that neither
Article 66B or the Zoning Ordinance addressed this issue since the
Planning Commission is only making a recommendation.
Essential Utilities -Rz-92-9:
Mr.Moser stated that he could not vote on this case.Mr.
Iseminger stated since they did not have a quorum they would
postpone it until the December meeting.Mr.Spickler made a motion
in light of the testimony,to rewrite and re-advertise.Seconded
by Mr.Zombro.So Ordered.Mr.Iseminger stated that the
Ordinance will be rewritten by the Staff and re-advertised for
public hearing.
FMW Partnership -RZ-92-3:
Mr.Iseminger stated that Mr.Bowers is concerned about Cole Road
being closed.Mr.Schreiber stated that the property could be
built on regardless of the proposed rezoning and Cole Road would
still remain open as proposed.Any closing of Cole Road would have
to do with a piece of property directly south of the Valley Mall
and east of the subject property.To date,the Planning Department
has not received a formal request to develop that piece of
property.If any proposals are received,a traffic study
encompassing the entire road network and continuation of Massey
Boulevard would have to be performed.The rezoning has no bearing
on Cole Road since the applicant can build on the property as it
is.Mr.Spickler stated that he agreed with the applicant that
there is a change of character in the neighborhood.Mr.Iseminger
stated he had a problem with the reason for claiming mistake and
felt this would set a precedent by agreeing to it.Mr.Spickler
agreed.Mr.Iseminger stated that the Planning Commission does not
agree with the mistake claim and any motion would only address the
change in character.Mr.Spickler moved to recommend to the County
Commissioners the approval of RZ-92-3 for FMW Partnership because
the applicant made a valid case regarding change in the character
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of the neighborhood and the rezoning is appropriate and logical,
and made reference to pages 5,6 and 7 of the staff report.
Seconded by Mr.Moser.So ordered.
Mr.Iseminger stated that the Planning Commission is recommending
that the parcel be rezoned based on the change in the character of
the neighborhood and not a mistake.
St.James Corporation -RZ-92-10:
Mr.Iseminger asked if Mr.Brittain felt this PUD is in keeping
with the ordinance.Mr.Brittain reviewed his staff report and
discussed the density concern raised by the Commission.Mr.
Spickler thought that it met all four criteria outlined in Section
16.0 of the Zoning Ordinance.A discussion followed regarding
infrastructure.Mr.Spickler made a motion to recommend to the
County Commissioners the approval of RZ-92-10 for St.James
Corporation due to the fact that the proposed PUD is;a)in
compliance with the purpose of the PUD district,b)consistent with
the applicable policies of the adopted Comprehensive,c)compatible
with adjacent or neighboring properties and d)to be served
adequate community infrastructure either currently planned or
existing.Seconded by Mr.Moser.So ordered.
Potomac Edison Company -RZ-92-11:
.Mr.Zombro moved to recommend to the County Commis sioners the
approval of RZ-92-11 for Potomac Edison Company due to the staff's
findings of both a mistake and change.Seconded by Mr.Spickler.
Mr.Moser abstained.So ordered.
Wayne and Carol Gersen -RZ-92-12:
Mr.Zombro stated that at the rezoning hearing,it was his op~n~on
that Mrs.Gersen was unduly harassed by some of the adjacent
property owners.A discussion followed regarding the rezoning
hearing.Mr.Spickler moved to recommend to the Commissioners the
approval of RZ-92-12,for Wayne and Carol Gersen because it meets
several of the criteria for establishment of the Historic
Preservation overlay.Seconded by Mr.Moser.So ordered.
Bowman Development Company -RZ-92-13:
Mr.Lung stated that the Planning Department did receive some
additional testimony during the 10 day comment period primarily
from the residents of Highland Manner regarding existing storm
water management problems in the area.A discussion followed
regarding the applicability of the APFO on the subject development.
Mr.Iseminger asked Mr.Holsinger,consultant if Mr.Bowman is
aware that the existing storm water runoff situation will have to
be corrected.Mr.Zombro moved to recommend to the Commissioners
to approve the PUD zoning classification for RZ-92-13 Bowman
Development Company and adopting the staff's findings.Seconded by
Mr.Spickler.So ordered.
A discussion followed regarding the PUD zone.
Special Meeting:
The Planning Commission will hold a Special Meeting,Tuesday,
November 17,1992 at 6:30 P.M.at the Hagerstown Junior College to
discuss FMW Partnership.
The Planning Commission will hold a public information meeting
concerning the Forest Conservation Ordinance,Tuesday,November 17,
1992 at 7:00 P.M.
ADJOURNMENT:
There being no further business,the meeting adjourned at 4:05 P.M.
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WASHINGTON COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION
SPECIAL MEETING -NOVEMBER 17,1992
The Washington County Planning Commission held a special meeting on
Tuesday,November 17,1992 in Room C-11 of the Hagerstown Junior
College.
Members present were:Chairman;Bertrand L.Iseminger,Vice-
Chairman;Donald E.Zombro,EX-Officio;Ronald L.Bowers,Bernard
Moser,Donald Spickler,Carol Johnson and Robert E.Ernst,II.
Staff:Director;Robert C.Arch,Senior Planner;Stephen T.
Goodrich and Associate Planner;Bill Stachoviak.
CALL TO ORDER:
The meeting was called to order by the Chairman at 6:40 P.M.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS:
FMW Partnership (Crosspoint):
Mr.Iseminger stated that the rezoning presented to the County
Commissioners had not yet been acted upon but he felt that it would
be appropriate to comment on the staff report and anything else the
-consultant would like to add to this plan.Mr.Goodrich stated
that several months ago the Planning Commission gave the developer
permission to present the Preliminary Site Plan for the entire
development.He stated that copies of the plat and a memo with a
listing of items he had discussed with the consultant had been
forwarded to each Commission member for their review along with
copies of the site data tables and correspondence from the
reviewing agencies up to November 12.Mr.Goodrich briefly went
over the agency comments.He proceeded to review his list of items
with the Planning Commission.He also stated that at this point he
did not see any major obstacles to prevent a preliminary approval
of the site plan unless the Planning Commission had concerns about
the status of the rezoning case.
The first item of concern was the staff's opinion that there is a
need to enhance the planting along I-81.The staff also expressed
concern about the location of 5 of the tot lots noted specifically
in the memo to the Planning Commission.Mr.Goodrich referred to
the suggestions they made for the walkways and pointed out the
areas of concern on the plat.He stated the staff suggested adding
buffers to several areas.The staff also asked for a sequence of
development noting concern for the timing of the installation of
the recreation area.All the individual sections meet the density
requirements except Section 7,the elderly care facility.Mr.
Goodrich discussed the variances that are required and stated that
the developer is aware of what needs to be done.In referring to
the site data charts,Mr.Goodrich stated that there are three
areas that do not meet the required lot area.Mr.Goodrich still
needs to speak with the County Engineer about the right-of-way
dedication along Grosh and Beckley Avenues.This development
design is dependent upon the rezoning.
Other than those comments and the understanding that when the
individual sections are reviewed,there may be other things they
may need to be changed.Based on that,the staff does not have a
problem with granting preliminary site approval.
Mr.Moser asked if the developer is agreeable to making the changes
recommended by the staff.Mr.Goodrich stated that the developer
is agreeable with most of them.Mr.Zombro made a motion to
address the fencing of the stormwater management pond in Section 9.
Mr.Goodrich commented that it could also be moved.Mr.Belcher of
Fox and Associates,spoke on behalf of his client and stated that
changes will be made including fencing the pond.Mr.Spickler
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regarding the walkways,Cole Road,trash collection,roads that
will be built and the overburdening of the schools.Mr.Iseminger
asked if the traffic impact study was still with the State and if
they are still analyzing it.Mr.Arch stated that the State's
latest counts are with the County Engineer.Based on the numbers
in the Preliminary Study most of the intersections were in good
condi tion.The main concern is the intersection of Massey
Boulevard and Halfway.Mr.Bowers had a question regarding the
road construction behind Valley Mall.He was concerned that when
Massey Boulevard is connected to Virginia Avenue,Chesterfield
Drive and Massey Boulevard would become a major thoroughfare to the
Mall,before the remainder of Massey Boulevard was completed
through the De Bartolo property.It was noted that the developer
has agreed to block Chesterfield Drive to prevent this until Massey
Boulevard is completed.
Mr.Iseminger stated that since the County Commissioners had not
acted on the rezoning,they will postpone action on this
preliminary site plan until the December 7,1992 regular Planning
Commission meeting.Mrs.Johnson moved to postpone action until
the December 7,1992 meeting.Seconded by Mr.Spickler.So moved.
ADJOURNMENT:
There being no further business,Mr.Moser made a motion to adjourn
the meeting at 7:00 P.M.
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WASHINGTON COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION
REGULAR MEETING -DECEMBER 7,1992
The Washington County Planning Commission held its regular monthly
meeting on Monday,December 7,1992 in the first floor conference
room of the County Administration Building.
Members present were:Chairman;Bertrand L.Iseminger,Ex-Officio;
Ronald L.Bowers,Donald Spickler,and Bernard Moser.Vice-
Chairman;Donald E.Zombro and Carol Johnson arrived late.Staff:
Director;Robert C.Arch,Senior Planner;Stephen T.Goodrich,
Associate Planners:Edward Schreiber,Lisa Kelly pietro,Timothy A.
Lung,Jim Brittain and Secretary,Deborah S.Kirkpatrick.Absent
was Robert Ernst.
CALL TO ORDER:
The meeting was called to order by the Chairman at 7:05 P.M.
MINUTES:
Mr.Moser moved to approve the minutes of September 21,1992,
Special Meeting.Seconded by Mr.Bowers.So ordered.
Mr.Spickler moved to approve the minutes of October 26,1992,
Special Meeting.Seconded by Mr.Moser.So ordered.
Mr.Bowers moved to approve the minutes of November 2,1992.
Seconded by Mr.Spickler.So ordered.
Mr.Iseminger stated that in the minutes of November 10,1992 the
minutes stated that Robert Ernst was both present and absent.The
minutes should state that he was absent.Under Essential utilities
RZ-92-9 Mr.Moser stated he could not vote.Mr.Spickler moved to
approve as corrected.Seconded by Mr.Moser.So ordered.
Before proceeding,Mr.Arch stated there is a request for Walnut
Point,RZ-92-14 to be added to tonight's agenda.Mr.Moser made a
motion to defer action until the January meeting.He stated that
all members should be present and they should have time to inspect
the site.Seconded by Mr.Spickler.So ordered.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS:
Lakeside Mobile Home Park:
Mr.Arch explained that at the November meeting he reviewed a memo,
which was a site plan replat request from the park owner.The
purpose of the request was to eliminate 11 parking spaces and turn
them into mobile home spaces.The Commission moved to postpone
action until the December meeting in order to give the park owner
time to meet wi th the homeowners.Mr.Weinman,a partner in
Lakeside Mobile Home Park was present.He stated that it was his
understanding that the spaces in question were to be mobile home
park spaces at the time the park was designed and that the park has
always had 335 space numbers and there currently exists only 324
spaces.Mr.Weinman explained the history of the mobile home park
and stated they would like to proceed in developing it.He also
stated that he was given the go ahead by the powers at be to do
this and that he had met with some of the adjacent residents.Mr.
Weinman stated that it was always the intention of the mobile home
park to meet with the residents and to work with them.He stated
the surveying and design work was completed and submitted for
permits.Mr.Moser asked Mr.Weinman who gave him the go ahead.
Mr.Weinman stated he met with Paul Prodonovich,who researched it,
and was told he thought it was okay.Mr.Weinman stated they would
not have proceeded with the design work if he had been told
otherwise.Mr.Iseminger stated that the original recorded site
plan shows the spaces in question designated as parking spaces and
any deviation from that Site Plan needs the Planning Commission
approval.He stated that at this point the mobile home park did
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not have the authority to eliminate the parking spaces and turn
them into mobile home sites and asked if the park owners had a
meeting with the homeowners.Mr.Weinman s.tated that they did have
a meeting.Mr.Spickler stated that under the original grant from
the Board of Zoning Appeals they were given 61 lots,40 of which
had been used,21 left.He stated that at the last meeting the
Planning Commission was working under the assumption that the park
owners would be using 11 of the spots that the Board of Zoning
Appeals had granted them in that section,since they are doing
something that is not on the site plan and asked if they were using
11 of the 21 left.Mr.Weinman stated they were not and proceeded
to explain the history of the mobile home park since he has owned
it.A discussion followed regarding the current criteria and
access.Mr.Iseminger stated that he feels they should deal with
the current development and the 11 spaces in question.Two
residents of the mobile home park spoke on behalf of the other
residents.They stated the residents are opposed to the
elimination of the parking spaces since they feel this would create
an emergency access problem.One resident stated that up until 2
years ago,he paid rent for the use of a parking space.They also
stated that all the lots except those used as parking spaces are
numbered.The residents feel that these spaces were always
intended to be used as parking spaces as shown on the original
plans.Mr.Weinman discussed the proposed development of spaces
and the new parking that will be provided.
Mr.Bowers moved based on the recorded approved Site Plan,that the
plan be denied.Seconded by Mr.Moser.So ordered.
A discussion followed regarding appeal.
NEW BUSINESS:
Variances:
Clarence Horst (Kenneth DeLaughter 1 (SV-92-026):
Mrs.Pietro presented the variance request for Clarence Horst.The
site is located on the west side of Grey Rock Road near Edgemont.
Zoning is Conservation.The developer is requesting the variance
from Section 405 .11B of the Subdivision Ordinance.This request is
to create a 7 acre lot without public road frontage.The total
size of the tract is 21.5 acres.The road classification is
private.The developer is proposing to put 2 log houses on the 7
acre tract.Mrs.Pietro referred to a previous variance in the
area a few years ago,which was denied.Mr.Iseminger stated that
not only does this property not have public road frontage,this lot
would be creating a long panhandle.Mr.Spickler stated he did not
feel this was a hardship case.Mr.Horst,representing the owner
briefly discussed the area and the previous variance.Mr.Horst
stated the reason they are requesting the variance is that Grey
Rock Road is a road of record that goes completely through the
property and is passable.Mr.Iseminger stated that he was
concerned with the road frontage and crossing.A discussion
followed.Mr.Spickler moved to deny the variance.Seconded by
Mr.Moser.So ordered.
Lisa Staley (SV-92-024):
Mr.Schreiber presented the variance request for Lisa Staley.The
site is located on the north side of MD Rt.494.Maryland Rt.494
is considered a major collector.The variance is being requested
from Section 405.2A of the Subdivision Ordinance.This request is
to create an access within 100 feet of an existing driveway.The
reason the access is so close to the driveway,is that there is
poor site distance and are limited in where subdivision can occur.
There is one lot involved with 240 acres in the remaining lands.
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Zoning is Agriculture.A discussion followed with the consultant,
Fred Frederick regarding future development.Mr.Zombro moved to
grant the variance.Seconded by Mr.Moser.So ordered.
W.E.T.A (SV-92-025):
Mr.Schreiber presented the variance request for W.E.T.A.The site
is located on the top of Quirack Mountain.The request is to
create a 10,000 sq.ft.lot without public road frontage,to be used
for a radio tower.Zoning is Conservation.Mr.Schreiber stated
that a special exception has been granted for the proposed use and
a variance for the reduction of the setbacks from the Board of
Zoning Appeals.Mr.Iseminger asked if this has been run by Ft.
Ritchie and if this type of tower would interfere with them.Mr.
Joe Davis of W.E.T.A.stated that Chief Mary Wells,of the Army is
aware of what they want to do and does not have a problem with it.
Mr.Davis proceeded to explain the size of the tower.Mr.Davis
stated they do have a construction permit issued by FAA and that
the site would be unmanned and only maintenance vehicles would be
entering the property.A discussion followed.Mr.Spickler moved
to grant the variance.Seconded by Carol Johnson.So ordered.Mr.
Schreiber stated that the applicant has requested when the
Preliminary/Final plat is submitted,that it be administratively
approved.Mr.Moser moved that the Preliminary/Final plat approval
be handled by the staff.Seconded by Mr.Bowers.So ordered.
Subdivisions:
Crosspoint Preliminary Plat/Site Plan:
Mr.Goodrich presented the Preliminary Site Plan for Crosspoint.
He stated that it had been before the Commission at their October
meeting.The development consists of 964 dwelling units on 81.5
acres and it is below the gross density limit of 16 units per acre.
Mr.Goodrich stated that the development consists of 9 sections and
identified each one.He also noted that when the staff reviewed
this plan,they looked for items that would affect the overall
site,such as the pedestrian system,traffic impact study,and the
impact on the schools to name a few.Mr.Goodrich stated that upon
completing their review,the staff presented a detailed list of
suggested revisions during the Special Meeting of November 17,
which the developer has agreed to comply with.Mr.Goodrich
briefly reviewed the list and stated that the developer will need
to apply for a variance for the density in the elderly section and
some other items like that,which the developer has agreed to take
care of.Mr.Goodrich stated that at the last meeting the
Commission suggested locating play areas on the school property.
The developer preferred not to pursue the suggestion due to
liability problems.Mr.Goodrich stated that the other item the
Planning Commission was concerned with at the last meeting was the
rezoning which has now been approved.This rezoning affected
Section 5,the commercial area.Mr.Goodrich stated that at this
point the staff does not feel there are any obstacles in the way of
granting approval for the preliminary site plan.The other
agencies have responded.They are still working out a few details
with the Water Department.He stated that a traffic study was done
and that State Highway agrees with all findings and made some
recommendations for improvements to the road system.A discussion
followed regarding road expansion.Mr.Goodrich stated that the
County Engineer has approved the overall development and Section 9.
There was further discussion regarding road expansion,cost sharing
and access.Mr.Spickler moved to grant Preliminary Site Plan
approval.Seconded by Mr.Zombro.So ordered.
Crosspoint Section 9:
Mr.Goodrich presented the Preliminary Plat and Site Plan for
Crosspoint,Section 9,which consists of 60 apartment units.He
stated that this section includes the construction of the new road
(Lafayette Court)and most of Chesterfield Drive which will provide
public road access to Cole Road.The property is zoned Residential
Multi-Family.There will be five 3 story buildings,with 12 units
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each.Green space and parking requirements have been met.Public
water and sewer will serve the development.
Mr.Goodrich stated that construction of a storm water management
pond is included in Section 9.He said that the storm water
management pond would be fenced with a chain link fence as required
by the County Engineer which will also address the Commission's
concern for children using the adjacent play area.He mentioned
that the developer had attempted to relocate the play area further
away from the pond but could not meet setback requirements at the
alternate location.A discussion followed regarding access to the
play area.The Planning Commission suggested adding a marked
crosswalk.The staff requested a change of the location of the
trash receptacles,which has been done.
Mr.Goodrich stated they are waiting on Health Department approval
and the Water Department is working out some details.Approvals
have been received from Sanitary Commission,Engineering and Soil
Conservation.Mr.Goodrich stated the last item that needed to be
worked out with the developer is one of parking that is not in
compliance with the Zoning Ordinance.He stated that the developer
has complied with the other changes requested by the staff.
Therefore,the staff is requesting Preliminary Plat Site Plan
approval.A discussion followed.Mr.Moser asked if the Parks
Commission should review the tot lots,since that had been done in
the past.He felt the design criteria for the tot lots should be
consistent.Discussion followed.The developer agreed to do so.
Mr.Zombro moved for Preliminary Plat and Site Plan approval,with
"staff having the authority to give approval when the items
mentioned are addressed.Seconded by Carol Johnson.So ordered.
Van Lear Manor Section 13 -Preliminary and Final Plat:
Mrs.Pietro presented the Preliminary and Final Plat for Van Lear
Manor,Section 13,Lots 457 -477.The site is located along south
side of Virginia Avenue.The site is zoned Residential Rural.The
developer is proposing a total of 21 lots.Thirteen of the lots
will be single family with the rest being duplex lots.The total
acreage of the subdivision is 10.30 with 57 acres remaining.All
the lots will be served by public sewer and water and all of the
lots will have access onto Anderson Drive.Mrs.Pietro referred to
the storm water management area and wetlands shown on the plat.
All the agency approvals have been received.State Highway
approval has been received,but before giving final approval they
need a bond and access permit.A discussion followed regarding the
adjacent lands.Mr.Bowers moved to grant Preliminary and Final
Plat approval.Seconded by Mr.Moser.So ordered.
Van Lear Manor,Section 14:
Mr.Lung presented the Preliminary and Final plat for Van Lear
Manor,Section 14.The development consists of 33 lots and new
streets on a total of 19 acres located north of Sterling Road and
east of Hershey Drive.The lots range in size from 15,000 square
feet to 25,000 square feet.Zoning is Residential Rural (Urban
Growth Area).Mr.Lung stated that the larger lots are partially
in the flood plain and their building envelopes have been adjusted
accordingly and that the consultant has received the appropriate
federal agency approval of the flood plain delineation.There is
a 3 acre storm water management lot,to be dedicated to the County.
Public water and sewer are available to the site.The County
Engineer has granted preliminary approval,with some comments to be
addressed on the final plat;the Water Department and Sanitary
District have given verbal preliminary approval.Mr.Lung stated
that at this point the most appropriate action for the Planning
Commission would be to consider granting Preliminary approval
contingent upon receipt of all written approvals and requested that
the staff be given the authority to grant final plat approval.Mr.
Bowers moved to approve the Preliminary plat,with staff having the
authori ty to grant final plat approval.Seconded by Carol Johnson.
So ordered.A discussion followed regarding future development.
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Smithfield Estates -Preliminary Plat:
Mr.Lung presented the Preliminary Plat for Smithfield Estates.He
stated that at the last meeting the Preliminary Consultation had
been presented and at that time the subdivision was called Beckon's
Ridge.The development consists of 23 single family lots and is
located along the west side of Md Rt.62,north of Old Forge Road.
The zoning is Agriculture.The lots range in size from I acre to
almost 5 acres.The lots will be served by wells and septics and
two new streets.There will be no new entrances onto MD Rt.62.
A storm water management lot has been designated as requested by
the County Engineer.State Highway approval has been received.
There will be an accel/decel lane,as required,on MD Rt.62.
Approvals have been received from the County Engineer and the
Health Department.Mr.Lung requested that the Planning
Commission consider granting approval to the Preliminary Plat and
granting staff the authority to approve the final plat.Mr.Bowers
moved to approve the Preliminary Plat,with staff having the
authority to approve the final plat.Seconded by Mr.Zombro.So
ordered.
Michael Development,Lots 13 -16:
Mr.Brittain presented the preliminary/Final Plat for Michael
Development and referred to the Preliminary Consultation.It is a
4 lot subdivision located on the north side of MD Rt 56,north of
the Hassett Road intersection.Zoning is Agriculture.The lot
sizes range from 2 acres to 5 acres,with no remaining acreage.
The lots will be served by wells and septics.MD Rt 56 is
classified as a minor collector,which requires 60 feet of right-
of-way (the dedication has been made).All agency approvals have
been received.The staff recommends preliminary/Final approval.
Mr.Moser moved to approve the Preliminary/Final plat.Seconded by
Mr.Spickler.So ordered.
Site Plan:
Fairplay Fire Hall:
Mr.Brittain presented the site plan for Fairplay Fire Hall.Mr.
Arch stated that this presentation is for information purposes
only.Because the site is located in an Agricultural area there is
no approval or disapproval from the Planning Commission.Mr.Arch
stated that due to the size and scope of the project,the planning
staff felt that it should be presented to the Planning Commission
for review and comment.Mr.Brittain explained that a drawing must
be submitted for planning staff review,but does not require a Site
Plan.The Zoning Administrator has final approval.A discussion
followed.Mr.Brittain reviewed the site plan,explaining the new
structure,parking areas,landscaping and entrance.The site will
be served by on site facilities.There will be a new septic
system.A discussion followed regarding the parking and road
improvements.Mr.Spickler had a question about the existing
building and suggested separating the entrance and parking areas
for the social hall and the fire hall.Mr.Bill Pennington,
President of the Fire Company,stated that they originally wanted
to do that,but the County Engineer turned it down.A discussion
followed.Mr.Arch stated that the Planning Staff's comments to
the Zoning Administrator will be that the plan meets all
requirements.
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Other Business:
Agricultural Preservation Memo:
Mr.Arch referred to the memo and stated that additional
information had been received and that the State is ready to
certify the program by the end of the year,if the Planning
Commission agrees to what is in the addendum.Mr.Spickler moved
to approve the addendum.Seconded by Carol Johnson.So ordered.
CIP Procedural Manual:
Mr.Arch referred to the CIP Procedural Manual and explained the
Planning Commission's role in the review process of the CIP.
Work Program Guidelines:
Mr.Arch stated that the Planning Act of 1992 requires that a
letter be submitted to Governor Schaefer along with a copy of the
work program,which must be adopted by January 1st.Mr.Arch
proceeded to review the work program.Mr.Iseminger stated that the
Planning Commission will review the work program and discuss it at
the January meeting.Mr.Arch asked for a motion to be made on the
work schedule,so that it could be presented to the Board of County
Commissioners.Mrs.Johnson made a motion to approve the schedule.
Seconded by Mr.Zombro.So ordered.
Proposed Meeting Dates:
Mr.Arch asked the Planning Commission to take action on the
proposed meeting dates for 1993.Mrs.Johnson moved to approve the
proposed dates.Seconded by Mr.Moser.
A discussion followed regarding the growth management legislation
and Lakeside Mobile Home Park.
ADJOURNMENT:
There being no further business,the meeting adjourned at 9:45 P.M.