Appellant Presentation:
Appelant Laura Evans is a resident near the Windjammer neighborhood. She stated
that the City did not comply with zoning requirements, because they failed to
initiate comprehensive studies, including increased noise levels resulting from
construction of a retaining wall within 25 feet of a major traffic thoroughfare prior
to approval.
Applicant Presentation:
Applicant Jason Alwine with the Matrix Group stated that this amendment includes
connecting two existing retaining walls and also widening the entrance to
accommodate delivery and fire trucks. He clarified that the final landscape plan is
the one showing the specific details. There are trees and large shrubs both above
and below the wall. It was decided to connect the existing walls for maintenance
reasons.
Questions/Discussion:
Commissioner Rickett said that the approved plans in the staff report do not
include the last revised or new retaining wall in the landscape plan.
Ms. O’Brien replied that the scope of the changes were not to the extent that they
would need a full amendment.
Commissioner Rickett questioned the placement of the trees on both sides of the
retaining wall.
Commissioner Foos said some of the citizen comments mentioned the sidewalk
was getting pushed closer. Ms. O’Brien replied that was referring to a previous
amendment in 2022, but that is not happening.
Commissioner Rickett said this particular appeal mixes Chapter 7 and the UDC and
he asked how the appeal should have been filed. Mr. Wysocki answered that since
the appeal was filed after the effective date of the UDC, it follows those rules.
Commissioner Rickett said the staff report noted that the landscape architect asked
the applicant to show how they would soften the new section of the wall and the
applicant complied. He asked how this will be accomplished. Mr. Alwine answered
that there are 9-10 trees spread out along the entire length of the wall and larger
shrubs where the wall is closer to the sidewalk.
Commissioner Briggs asked for clarification that there are two large buildings across
the street. Mr. Alwine said to the west there is both single family and multi family
housing.
Commissioner Hensler asked about the height of the wall. She asked if five feet
was recommended, is it possible to make it shorter, and what is the structural
integrity for the homes above. Mr. Alwine said they are simply connecting one wall
to the other and keeping a flat plane across while maintaining an appropriate slope
as it goes toward the existing sidewalk on Union. There is approximately 41 feet
between the proposed wall and the sidewalk.
Commissioner Hensler asked Mr. Alwine to speak to absorption of noise between
