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PLANNING & DESIGN COMMISSION <br /> CITY OF NORTH OLMSTED <br /> MEETING MINUTES OF DECEMBER 7, 2023 <br /> ROLL CALL <br /> Ms. Hemann called the meeting to order at 7:04 p.m. <br /> Present: Humberto Olivos, Cary Peeples. Tom David. Mary Ellen Hemann <br /> Absent: Mr. Patton. Jose Leon <br /> Staff: Director Max Upton, Assistant Law Director Bryan O'Malley. Administrative Assistant <br /> Lyn Wilson, Coordinator Steve Holowicki <br /> Guests: George Davis, Developer: Residents Jeff Senquiz on Grace Rd. and Jim Helms on <br /> Mastick Rd. <br /> OLD BUSINESS <br /> 23-24769 Kingston Apartment Townhomes, Grace Rd, South of Brookpark <br /> Proposal consists of new construction of 68 townhome units in 10 buildings at the site. <br /> Mr. Olivos provided an overview of the project's current status. highlighting the approvals <br /> received from the city and the BZBA. He mentioned the need to understand previous <br /> agreements with neighbors to assess the project's direction. Mr. Olivos reviewed the 11 <br /> variances requested, explaining that variances one through six were internal and not <br /> impacting neighbors significantly. Variance seven through 11 concerned setbacks for the <br /> property. He visualized the city-approved changes for the developer to improve the site, <br /> noting the projects tight constraints and the access issues. Mr. Olivos emphasized that <br /> approved variances couldn't be altered at this stage but should be considered for <br /> understanding the project's current position. He also encouraged open discussion for sharing <br /> ideas round the table. Mr. Olivos went on and highlighted the need for connectivity in the <br /> project, suggesting a sidewalk connection to the dog park near 1-480. He proposed adding <br /> shading and mentioned plans to connect existing development to the proposed bike path and <br /> dog park. <br /> Mr. O'Malley revisited the historical context of BZA and Planning Commission reviews, <br /> highlighting past concerns where developers would secure variances from the BZA before <br /> approaching the Planning Commission. To address this. the process was changed to involve <br /> the Planning Commission first, allowing for recommendations and comments on variances <br /> before they go to the BZA. However, the code was revised again to enable developers to <br /> seek BZA variances first to prevent delays and financial setbacks. Mr. O'Malley reassured <br /> the Commission of their authority to review development plans comprehensively. <br /> emphasizing their role in landscaping, entranceway, fencing and circulation aspects. He also <br /> praised the developer for the cooperation. acknowledging the city's commitment to fostering <br /> open and timely development. <br /> There was a discussion about the requirement for fencing around open water areas. with <br />