Agenda - Planning Commission - 09/07/2017

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Shawn Rogers, Purmort Homes representative, thanked the Commission for their time. He believed there was not a lot of clarity within the Code. He explained he has had the proposed elevation (with a 6 x 8-foot porch) in other locations in the City. He provided further comment on the four -level split and stated from the street this home would look the same as a rambler. He requested the Commission approve his request and allow for a split -entry model in The COR. Commissioner VanScoy stated the original intent was to have street oriented, pedestrian friendly neighborhoods. He did not believe a recessed covered area was the same as a porch. He asked staff how many split entry homes the City has approved since 2012. Community Development Director Gladhill stated he had not counted the number specifically noting it was difficult to plan backwards. He understood there was a gap in the code which made this situation difficult. Commissioner VanScoy reiterated that he was looking for a porch on these homes. Commissioner Brauer agreed and stated split entries were never intended to be approved in The COR. Commissioner Anderson respectfully disagreed and stated he believed the proposed elevation did have a porch -like amenity that was enclosed on three sides that appealed to the pedestrian friendly neighborhood. Mr. Rogers asked if there was one property that met the true intent of the City Code and had a three -sided open front porch. He suggested the garage be pushed back in order to create a 6' x 8' unobstructed three -sided porch. Commissioner VanScoy did not believe the porches had to be six feet in front of the garages in order to have three sides open. Commissioner Brauer expressed frustration with this whole situation. He believed that the Planning Commission should support staff and their ability to interpret City Code unless there was a major reason not to. He recommended the developer work this issue out with the staff. Commissioner Nosan asked if there were lots that had to be a split entry. Mr. Rogers commented on the water table and noted how some lots would benefit by being a split entry versus a rambler, but reported they did not have to be built as a split entry. He stated that if a split entry was not built the home would just be six or more steps above ground level. He believed that if split entries were allowed, this would create a more diverse housing stock. Commissioner Nosan questioned how big the proposed recessed area was on the split entry homes. Mr. Rogers stated the area was roughly 6' x 9' or 54 square feet in size. Planning Commission/July 6, 2017 Page 13 of 16