The most discussion revolved around a height variance request for fences along France Avenue, where residents sought to increase the maximum height from six feet to nine feet. The request stemmed from the need to mitigate the impacts of upcoming BRT improvements, which include tall bus shelters and illuminated signage.

The planner presented the request, explaining that four properties at 4701, 4703, 4705, and Metal Road were directly affected by the BRT station improvements at the intersection of 47th and France Avenue. The current six-foot fences were deemed insufficient to screen the properties from the noise and visual disturbances caused by the new BRT infrastructure. The proposed solution involved replacing the existing fences with eight-foot solid fences topped by a one-foot trellis, effectively raising the height to nine feet.

The unique circumstances of the properties, such as the slope of the land and proximity to various infrastructure elements, were highlighted as justifications for the variance. It was argued that the new fence configuration would help buffer the properties from the upcoming construction and improved bus station features.

Commissioners discussed the implications of granting the variance, weighing concerns about setting a precedent for similar requests along France Avenue against the unique challenges posed by the BRT improvements. Arguments for approval emphasized that the nine-foot fence would not alter the neighborhood’s essential character and would effectively screen the properties from increased activity and visibility associated with the new bus stations. Conversely, arguments for denial centered on maintaining a consistent aesthetic along the avenue and the assertion that the proposal did not meet the unique standards for a variance, as other properties along France Avenue were similarly situated and already had reasonable use with existing six-foot fences.

The public hearing included a notable testimony from Karen Willie, a resident affected by the proposal, who highlighted her ongoing engagement with Metro Transit and the lack of effective mitigation measures from the transit authority. Willie stressed that the variance request aimed to address the unique situation of her property and neighboring homes, which face two bus stations directly across from each other. She argued that the existing six-foot tall fences provided insufficient screening from the noise and light generated by the bus stations, which would include shelters reaching heights of nine to twelve feet, and that the new configuration would offer necessary privacy from the bus stations.

The commission’s deliberation revealed a mix of support and opposition, with some members expressing sympathy for the residents’ situation and acknowledging the unique circumstances presented by the dual bus stations. Others were concerned about setting a precedent and the potential for a disjointed fence height along the avenue. Ultimately, the decision aimed to balance the need for residential privacy with adherence to city regulations.

In addition to the height variance discussion, the meeting addressed a TIF plan for the redevelopment of the site occupied by Macy’s Furniture Store. The economic development manager presented Resolution B249, clarifying that the Planning Commission’s role was to determine whether the TIF plan conformed to the city’s general plans for development and redevelopment. The TIF plan included potential funding for a pedestrian crossing on France Avenue, with options such as an underpass, bridge, or tunnel being considered.

The commission debated the necessity of including specific language about the pedestrian crossing in the TIF plan, with some members expressing discomfort with the terms “undercrossing” or “bridge crossing.” They suggested simplifying the language to focus on the broader goal of improving pedestrian and bicycle access rather than committing to a specific type of crossing that might not have been fully vetted.

The historical context of the southeast area redevelopment plan from the 1970s, which aimed to improve access for pedestrians and cyclists, was referenced to underline the intention behind the current proposal. While discussions have evolved over the years, the fundamental goal remained to create safer pedestrian access.

The meeting also touched on a conditional use permit and variances for a proposed residential project on Philbrook Lane, located in a flood zone. The proposed plan involved elevating the new home above the flood elevation to address the challenges posed by the floodway designation. The commission engaged in a discussion about the implications of the proposed project, weighing the benefits of elevating the home against the constraints imposed by the floodway designation and existing regulations.

Concerns were raised about the potential impact on neighboring properties and the broader implications of the floodway designation, particularly as it may affect other homes in the vicinity. Despite these concerns, the project was considered an opportunity to address the floodplain designation and facilitate compliance with zoning ordinances.