City Council Minutes 2013 12 03 - Laserfiche WebLink

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City Council Meeting Minutes December 3, 2013 Page 11 of 21 Council member Lipton stated the ordinance proposal was brought before the Planning Commission in the spirit of continuous improvement and to fill in some gaps in the process. He recalled there were times when posting signage was curtailed because of budget constraints. He stated this ordinance may not provide the perfect solution, but it is an improvement and suggested approving the ordinance now and making modifications at a later date. He addressed the consistency of the process and noted the ability of the Planning Director or City Manager to use subjectivity in deciding what the notice requirement should be, may prompt protest and possible litigation for preferential treatment. He did not believe social media should replace the existing notice process, but to enhance it. Mayor Muckle agreed there should be consistency and that one size does not fit all, especially when considering outdoor home projects. On very large projects, such as ConocoPhillips, it is important to think of the notice process similar to marketing the property. He supported closing the current gaps with the ordinance, and establishing a communication process for large projects. Council member Keany asked Planning Director Russ if a definition of the size of a project could be by square footage or dollar value of the project. Planning Director Russ stated his concern with a definition of square footage or acreage would require a particular number or threshold. With respect to variances, the Louisville Municipal Code does not provide any guidance as to what is a significant variance and what is not. He explained the subject of notice was discussed at a study session and no public comment was received. When it was reviewed by the Planning Commission only one public member spoke. He explained this is not a technical issue; it is question of what is the right notice for Louisville. He agreed a public meeting with public outreach would assist the staff. Council member Keany reported receiving notices for variances a number of years ago which were totally non - descriptive. Planning Director Russ stated the current notices do describe what the actual variance is for. Council member Loo noted there was a study session on the matter and there are five different areas where the public can receive public notice information. MOTION: Council member Loo moved to approve Ordinance No. 1647, Series 2013, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Dalton. DISCUSSION: Mayor Muckle noted if the ordinance is voted down, it must start over from the beginning and suggested the Council move forward with the approval of the ordinance and revisit this matter at a study session in the spring. Mayor Pro Tem Dalton agreed.