Agenda - Planning Commission - 04/28/2022

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Senior Planner Anderson stated that it was his recollection that the intention of The COR is to have everything pulled closer to the street to create a sense of community where people can gather, rather than segregate in backyards. He believed that previous discussions focused on single-family homes related to the front porch issue. He stated that he was unable to find anything that captured the discussion in review of previous minutes. Commissioner VanScoy commented that there were discussions for both. He stated that at one time there was an architectural review committee that seems to have dissipated. He agreed that the intent was to create a sense of community in an area that is pedestrian oriented. He stated that the idea was that if a porch was provided, people would sit out there and it would make for easy conversation between neighbors. He stated that the developer has presented his preferred style, which appear to be a covered stoop. He noted that many of those include pillars and architectural features which look nice. He stated that he would not consider purchasing this type of architectural style home. He recognized that not all the townhomes that have been constructed in The COR are pleasing to him in terms of aesthetics. He stated that the stoop is functional but does not stand out. He was unsure how a six by six front porch would reduce lighting in the interior of the home. Chairperson Bauer referenced examples of existing townhomes in The COR that were shown in the presentation and asked where those homes are located. Senior Planner Anderson identified the areas in which those homes exist. He noted that one the examples would face this potential project site. Chairperson Bauer invited the developer to address the Commission. Jason Palmby, property owner, thanked the Commission for its consideration and the ability to provide feedback. He stated that in his initial discussions with staff, the theme was to create a sense of community. He noted that one of the ways to do that was through a covered front porch. He stated that in the research he has done, there are not a lot of layouts that meet that current requirement with the various plans they have reviewed. He stated that this project has done very well in the Chicago market. He recognized that this model is a bit more urban than what is currently in that area. Emily Becker, representing the applicant, stated that she understands the significance of requiring a front porch as she was previously a City Planner. She felt that creating a sense of community is established with the patio and overhang and noted that the townhomes would still provide architectural significance. She stated that the customers of their townhomes like that the homes provide a lot of sunlight and the porch does block the sunlight. She stated that the porch also adds cost, which could hinder them moving forward with this project. She noted that this property has been vacant for a number of years. Mr. Palmby stated that they are exploring the idea of creating a common area with picnic benches, or a barbeque area to create an added sense of community. He believed that would meet that desire. Planning Commission/ March 24, 2022 Page 13 of 18