HomeMy WebLinkAbout2021-08-10 Planning PACKET
ASHLAND PLANNING COMMISSION
REGULAR MEETING
August 10, 2021
AGENDA
I. CALL TO ORDER:
7:00 PM
II. ANNOUNCEMENTS
III. CONSENT AGENDA
A. Approval of Minutes
1. July 13, 2021 Regular Meeting
IV. UNFINISHED BUSINESS
A. Approval of Findings for PA-T2-2021-00028, 364 Walker Avenue (Walker Elementary
School)
V. PUBLIC FORUM
VI. TYPE II PUBLIC HEARINGS
A. PLANNING ACTION: PA-T2-2021-00029
SUBJECT PROPERTY: 822 Oak Street
APPLICANT/OWNER: Suzanne Zapf for Overlook Drive, LLC
DESCRIPTION: A request for Outline and Final Plan approval for a five-lot/four-unit
Performance Standards subdivision for the properties located at 822 Oak Street. The
application also includes requests for: a Variance to allow a private driveway to serve four
units (AMC 18.4.6.040.C.1) where dedication of a public street is typically required; a
Conditional Use Permit to modify a non-conforming development where the required
driveway separation is not provided for an avenue (AMC 18.4.3.080.C.3.a), an Exception to
Street Standards to not install city standard street frontage improvements along Oak Street,
and a Street Tree Removal Permit to remove three Oak trees. COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
DESIGNATION: R-1-
TAX LOT: 200 & 201.
VII. TYPE III PUBLIC HEARINGS
A. PLANNING ACTION: PA-T2-2021-00031
SUBJECT PROPERTY: 375 & 475 East Nevada Street
APPLICANT: Rogue Planning & Development Services, LLC for
OWNERS: Peter & Laura Schultz (), David Young
owners, 375 E. Nevada St.-Tax Lot 1000
()
owner, 475 E. Nevada St.-Tax Lots 1100,1200 & 1300
DESCRIPTION: A request for a Minor Comprehensive Plan Map Correction to clarify the City
of Urban Growth Boundary for four properties located at 375 & 475 East Nevada
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, if you need special assistance to participate in this meeting, please
contact the Community Development office at 541-488-5305 (TTY phone is 1-800-735-2900). Notification 48 hours prior
to the meeting will enable the City to make reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility to the meeting (28 CFR
35.102-35.104 ADA Title 1).
Street. The application asserts that there are differences in the location between the
official paper maps and the current GIS maps in use by both the County and the City, and
that the original scales were such that the line width could significantly alter the
boundary location. The application asks to make clear that the portions of the four properties
in question are within the City of Urban Growth Boundary as Residential Reserve
(1.37 acres of Tax Lot 1000) and North Mountain Neighborhood Plan (2.08 acres of Tax Lots
1100, 1200 & 1300). PLEASE NOTE:
The 1982 Ashland/Jackson County Urban Growth
the Comprehensive Plan Map by both the Ashland City Council and Jackson County Board
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN DESIGNATION: Single Family Residential
of Commissioners.
Reserve & North Mountain; ZONING: RR-.5 & NM-MF; MAP: 39 1E 04A; TAX LOT #: 1000,
.
1100, 1200 & 1300
B. PLANNING ACTION: PA-T3-2021-00003
SUBJECT PROPERTY: 192 North Mountain Avenue
OWNER: The Hodgins Family Trust (Robert & Beverly Hodgins, ); The Mary G.
trustees
Walter Living Trust (Mary G. Walter, ); Steve White
trustee
APPLICANT: KDA Homes, LLC
DESCRIPTION: A request for annexation of 7.9 acres and Outline Plan approval for a
52-unit residential subdivision for the property located at 192 North Mountain Avenue.
With annexation, 7.9 acres of the ten-acre property would be brought into the city with
R-1-5 Single Family Residential zoning, and the entire ten-acres would be subdivided
to create 52 residential lots and eight common areas. The application also includes
requests for an Exception to Street Standards to not install a parkrow planting strip
with street trees on the proposed bridge over Beach Creek; a Limited Activities & Uses
Permit to install a bridge over Beach Creek in order to provide street connectivity to
trees. COMPREHENSIVE PLAN DESIGNATION: Single Family Residential; ZONING:
Existing City R-1-5 & County RR-5, Proposed City R-1-
***THIS ITEM HAS BEEN CONTINUED TO THE MEETING ON SEPTEMBER 14, 2021***
VIII.ADJOURNMENT
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, if you need special assistance to participate in this meeting, please
contact the Community Development office at 541-488-5305 (TTY phone is 1-800-735-2900). Notification 48 hours prior
to the meeting will enable the City to make reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility to the meeting (28 CFR
35.102-35.104 ADA Title 1).
ASHLAND PLANNING COMMISSION
SPECIAL MEETING
MINUTES - Draft
July 13, 2021
I. CALL TO ORDER:
Chair Haywood Norton called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.
Commissioners Present: Staff Present:
Michael Dawkins Bill Molnar, Community Development Director
Haywood Norton Brandon Goldman, Senior Planner
Roger Pearce Derek Severson, Senior Planner
Lynn Thompson Dana Smith, Executive Assistant
Lisa Verner
Absent Members: Council Liaison:
Kerry KenCairn Paula Hyatt
II. ANNOUNCEMENTS
Community Development Director Bill Molnar announced the Planning Commission will resume live meetings after
August 17, 2021. The Study Session for July 27, 2021 might be canceled. There were two public hearings
scheduled for the meeting on August 10, 2021. One regarding a possible correction to the Urban Growth Boundary
map for properties located at 375 and 475 East Nevada Street. The other was an annexation request for 192 North
Mountain Avenue.
III. PUBLIC FORUM
- None
IV.CONSENT AGENDA
A. Approval of Minutes
1. June 22, 2021 Special Meeting
Commissioner Dawkins/Verner m/s to approve the Consent Agenda. Voice Vote: all AYES. Motion
passed.
V. TYPE II PUBLIC HEARINGS
A. PLANNING ACTION: PA-T2-2021-00028
SUBJECT PROPERTY: 364 Walker Avenue (Walker Elementary School)
APPLICANT/OWNER: HMK Company for the Ashland School District
DESCRIPTION: The Planning Commission will conduct an initial public hearing to
review details of the proposal and take public comments on a request for Site Design
Review approval for a 22,450 square foot, single-story addition to Walker Elementary
School at 364 Walker Avenue. As part of the proposal, the parking lot and drop-off lane
would be relocated and expanded, with access to be taken via Hunter Court (the
driveway serving Hunter Park) and a new courtyard would be created. The application
also inclu
Master Sign Permit Program (PA#2012-00899) to allow new signage for Walker
Elementary School in conjunction with the proposed addition, and Tree Removal
Permits to remove 20 trees. An existing 9,700 square foot classroom will be
demolished in conjunction with the proposal. No final decision will be made at this
Ashland Planning Commission
July 13, 2021
Page 1 of 4
initial public hearing; the item will come back to the Planning Commission for a
decision at the April 13, 2021 meeting. COMPREHENSIVE PLAN DESIGNATION: Single
Family Residential; ZONING: R-1-5; MAP: 39 1E 10; TAX LOT #: 3600.
Chair Norton read aloud the rules for electronic public hearings.
Ex Parte Contact
Commissioner Dawkins, Pearce, and Thompson had no ex parte contact or site visit. Commissioner Verner
had no ex parte contact and one site visit. Chair Norton had no ex parte contact but drove past the site
often.
Staff Report
Senior Planner Derek Severson provided a presentation (see attached):
Aerial of Site & Surrounding Staff Recommendation: Bike & Ped
Circulation
Request
Planting Plan (L3.0)
Proposal aerial photo
South Elevation (Addition, facing
Status Update
Homes Ave.)
Map - detailing requirements
East Elevation (Addition, facing
Current Drop-Off/Pick-Up Loop from
Hunter Court)
Homes to Walker
West Elevation (Facing fields)
Existing Parking Lot (from Homes
North Elevation (Facing fields)
Ave.)
Photo of School 1952
Existing Parking Lot adjacent to
Homes Avenue Photo
Senior Center (corner of Homes & Proposed rendering
Hunter Ct.)
Sandow Engineering Report
On-Street ADA Spaces adjacent to
Sandow Engineering
Senior Center
Recommendations
Hunter Court (narrow section)
Conditional Use Permit/Sign
Hunter Court (looking north to Central Program
Ashland Bike Path)
Conditional Use Permit/Sign
Central Ashland Bike Path
Program
Site Demolition Plan (C1.2) Overall Civil Site Plan/Rendering
Overall Civil Site Plan (C3.0)
Overall Site Utility Plan (C5.0)
Tree Protection & Removal Plan (L1.1)
Tree Commission Recommendation
Bicycle & Pedestrian Path Route
Staff recommended approval with conditions.
Questions of Staff
Commissioner Thompson thought the design modifications addressed a lot of the issues. She asked
whether the use of granite on the bike path made it dangerous for biking. Mr. Severson explained the
decomposed granite would be compacted and leveled. Decomposed granite would also avoid impacts to
the trees and fields. The Parks and Recreation Department did not want to preclude the ability to pave the
path in the future. The Public Works Department wanted the path to meet ADA requirements for trails.
Commissioner Pearce questioned the need for Condition 14. It was asking the school district to do
something not on their property. He suggested making them recommendations instead. Mr. Severson
explained the Commission could decide to remove the condition. The Ashland School District would still
Ashland Planning Commission
July 13, 2021
Page 2 of 4
work with the Parks and Recreation Department regarding Hunter Court and with the Street Department to
implement them. Commissioner Verner did not want to remove enforceability. Commissioner Pearce
responded it would, but it could not be enforced anyway.
Amy Gunter/Rogue Planning and Development Services/Medford, Or/Matthew Guthrie/BP
Architects/Mike Freeman/HMK/
Ms. Gunter addressed the decomposed granite trails. There were trails
guidance adopted by the Oregon Department of Transportation for off network multiuse paths. It was similar
to what the Parks and Recreation Department used for their gravel paths. They used compacted
decomposed granite versus a rock surface. It was heavily compacted so wheels would not get stuck.
She provided a presentation:
Aerial photo
Existing Conditions
Site Plan
Site Access Routes
Proposed Addition Area
Plans
South Elevation Homes Avenue
Questions of the Applicant
Commissioner Dawkins clarified page 7 of 37 and explained the school was constructed in 1951, not the
late 1950s.
Matthew Gutherie/
Addressed Commissioner previous question regarding the number of
classrooms. The overall school population was not increasing with this project. They were moving all the
classrooms that were in the basement and not accessible to the main floor. The basement would be used
for the mechanical system. The project would move the Special Education classrooms to a central location.
Kindergarten would have additional amenities. Administration would relocate and face the parking lot. The
computer lab space would increase as well.
Public Testimony
- None
- None
Mr. Molnar asked for clarification on Commissioner Pearce regarding Condition 14. He
interpreted it as endorsing the recommendations of the traffic engineer to ensure safe circulation to and
through the site. It was necessary for the project to function appropriately. Generally, it would be a
condition of approval on the site plan at the time of the building permit and in place prior to issuing the
certificate of occupancy to meet the standard of adequate transportation based on the recommendations
from the traffic engineer. Commissioner Pearce commented if the applicant was fine with the condition, he
was too. They had worked it out with the Parks and Recreation Department and the Public Works
Department. The applicants did not challenge the condition. No changes were made to Condition 14.
Deliberation and Decision
Commissioner Dawkins/Pearce m/s to approve PA-T2-2021-00028 witamendment to
Condition 9(d) to include the addition of 3-4 large stature conifers.
Roll Call Vote: Commissioner Dawkins, Verner, Norton, Pearce, and Thompson, YES. Motion
passed.
Ashland Planning Commission
July 13, 2021
Page 3 of 4
VI.LEGISLATIVE PUBLIC HEARINGS
A. PLANNING ACTION: PA-L-2021-00011
APPLICANT: City of Ashland
DESCRIPTION: The Planning Commission will conduct a public hearing to review and make
recommendations to the City Council regarding an ordinance adopting the 2021 Housing
Capacity Analysis as a technical supporting document of the Housing Element of the Ashland
Comprehensive Plan.
Staff Report
Senior Planner Brandon Goldman summarized previous meetings regarding the Housing Capacity Analysis and
provided a presentation (see attached):
Components of this Project 47% of new households will be lower
income
Housing Capacity Analysis Questions
Forecast of New Housing, 2021 to 2041
Land Sufficiency Results
BLI Results Updated to 2020
Community Open House and
Types of Housing owner & renter
Questionnaire
occupied
Responses Survey Responses type
Mix of Housing, Ashland
questions
Housing Tenure, Ashland
Responses - What Housing type do you
Household Composition and Size, 2018
think Ashland needs?
Median Sales Price, August Oct 2020
Ashland Housing Strategies
Rental Housing Costs, 2018
Housing Capacity Analysis Public
Local Factors Affecting Needed Housing
Hearings
Financially Attainable Housing
Questions of Staff
The Commission appreciated the work staff, and the consultant had done on the ordinance. Commissioner
Thompson shared her concern on building smaller units that seemed more suited for retirees and not
families. She was interested in strategies for larger units that were affordable. Chair Norton was
encouraged that 400 people attended the virtual meeting and they received 300 surveys.
Public Testimony
- None
Deliberation and Decision
Commissioner Thompson/Dawkins m/s to approve the recommendation to adopt the ordinance
included in the packet. Roll Call Vote: Commissioner Pearce, Dawkins, Thompson, Verner, and
Norton, YES. Motion passed.
VII. ADJOURNMENT
Meeting adjourned at 8:20 p.m.
Submitted by,
Dana Smith, Executive Assistant
Ashland Planning Commission
July 13, 2021
Page 4 of 4
Walker Elementary School
Addition & Renovations
Planning Commission
Hearing
July 13, 2021
Walker Elementary School
Aerial of Site & Surrounding
Walker Elementary School
Request
SiteDesignReview approvalfora22,450squarefoot,single-storyaddition.
•
(Theparkinglotanddrop-offlanewouldberelocatedandexpanded,withnewaccess
tobetakenviaHunterCourt,andanewcourtyardwouldbecreated.)
ConditionalUsePermit tomodifytheSchoolDistrict’sMasterSignPermitProgram
•
(PA#2012-00899)toallownewsignageforWalkerElementarySchoolfortheaddition.
TreeRemovalPermits toremove14significanttrees.
•
Existing9,700squarefootclassroomwillbedemolishedinconjunctionwiththeproposal.
•
(ThiswillrequirereviewbytheBuildingOfficial.)
Walker Elementary School
Proposal
X
X
Walker Elementary School
Status Update
Since the initial public hearing on March 9, the Ashland School District has met with Parks staff and the Ashland Parks &
th
Recreation Commission (AP&RC) multiple times, and received approval to use Hunter Court for access as part of the revised
circulation plan for Walker Elementary School at the June 9, 2021 AP&RC meeting. AP&RC agreement was predicated on
the following:
1)ThattheSchoolDistrictprovideatleastafive-footwidebicycleandpedestrianpathsurfacedindecomposedgraniteto
allowstudentstoaccesstheschooldirectlyfromtheCentralAshlandBikepathwithouttheneedtointeractwithtraffic
onHunterCourt.AP&RCnotedthatspecifyingagraniticsurfacewasaminimumexpectation,andwasnotintendedto
preventthepathfrombeingpaved.
2)ThataturnlanebeaddedontheSchoolDistrictsideofHunterCourttobetteraccommodateparenttraffic.TheSchool
Districtistore-pavethiswidenedsectionofHunterCourtfromcurb-to-curb.TheParksCommissionrecognizedthat
thewideningwouldentailtheremovalofsometreesinthissectionifexistingon-streetADA-accessibleparkingistobe
maintainedfortheSeniorCenter,andtheCommissionindicatedthatitwouldsupportthisTreeRemovalPermit
request.
3)ThatthenewWalkerElementarySchoolparkinglot’sparkingspacesbeavailabletoHunterParkpatronsoutsideof
regularschoolhoursandschoolevents,includingduringthesummerandoverotherschoolbreaks.
4)SchooltrafficwouldbeabletouseHunterCourtforingressandegresstothereconfiguredparkinglot.
5)ApreviousrequestbytheAshlandSchoolDistricttouseprivatestormdrainagefacilitiesontheHunterParkproperty
waswithdrawnastheDistrictwasabletodevelopaplantootherwiseaddressitsstormdrainage.
6)Thisagreementwouldberevisitedin50yearswhichcoincideswiththeminimumanticipatedlifecycleofthenew
schoolbuilding.
Walker Elementary School
Walker Elementary School
Current Drop-Off/Pick-Up Loop from Homes to Walker
Walker Elementary School
Existing Parking Lot (from Homes Ave.)
Walker Elementary School
Existing Parking Lot adjacent to Homes Avenue
Walker Elementary School
Senior Center (corner of Homes & Hunter Ct.)
Walker Elementary School
On-Street ADA Spaces adjacent to Senior Center
Walker Elementary School
Hunter Court (narrow section)
First 130-feet is approximately 25 feet curb-to-curb, widening to 37 feet wide for the remainder.
Walker Elementary School
Hunter Court (looking north to Central Ashland Bikepath)
Walker Elementary School
Central Ashland Bikepath
Walker Elementary School
Site Demolition Plan (C1.2)
Walker Elementary School
Overall Civil Site Plan (C3.0)
AutomobileParking
Existing:46spaces
Required:66spaces
Proposed:66spaces
BicyleParking
Existing:22spaces
Required:70spaces
Proposed:70space
ExistingQueuing:
11carsonsite
beforequeueintoHomesAve.
Additional10queueonHomes
Ave.beforeblockingintersection.
ProposedQueuing:
15on-site,
additional11queueonHunter
CourtbeforeimpactingHomes
Ave.atall.
Walker Elementary School
Overall Site Utility Plan (C5.0)
Walker Elementary School
Tree Protection & Removal Plan (L1.1)
Walker Elementary School
Tree Commission Recommendation
TheTreeCommissionrecommendedapprovaloftherequest,withthefurtherrecommendation
thattheapplicant’sPlantingPlanbemodifiedtoincludethreetofourlarge-stature-at-maturity
native(or“native-like”)coniferstomitigatetheconifersbeingremoved.TheTree
CommissionersspecificallyrecommendedIncenseCedar(calocedrusdecurrens)orGiant
Sequoia(sequoiadendrongiganteum)asmitigationtrees,notingthatwiththenewfire
regulations,asiteofthissizeisoneofthefewthatwillallowremovedconiferstobemitigated.
withconifers.
Trees #20-25 to be removed
Walker Elementary School
Bicycle & Pedestrian Path Route
Path proposed is five-foot with granite surface.
Trees are six-feet behind curb.
Landscape Architect has indicated can excavate roughly four-inches to install path
and that trees should be able to accommodate this disturbance.
Walker Elementary School
Staff Recommendation: Bike & Ped Circulation
Walker Elementary School
Planting Plan (L3.0)
Walker Elementary School
South Elevation (Addition, facing Homes Ave.)
Walker Elementary School
East Elevation (Addition, facing Hunter Court)
Walker Elementary School
West Elevation (Facing Walker Ave.)
Walker Elementary School
North Elevation (Facing fields)
Walker Elementary School
Walker Elementary School
Walker Elementary School
Walker Elementary School
Sandow Engineering Report
Walker Elementary School
Sandow Engineering Recommendations
Walker Elementary School
Sandow Engineering Recommendations
#4
#5
#2
#3
#1
Walker Elementary School
Conditional Use Permit/Sign Program
Walker Elementary School
Conditional Use Permit/Sign Program
Public Purposes:
Education
Gathering Places
Appropriate signage gives clear
visual markers for each audience.
Walker Elementary School
Walker Elementary School
Addition & Renovations
Planning Commission
Hearing
July 13, 2021
Walker Elementary School
Speakers
Applicant Team
(15 minutes combined)
Amy Gunter,
Rogue Planning & Development Services, LLC
Matthew Guthrie,
BBT Architects
Mike Freeman, HMK Company
Todd Powell, Powell Engineering Consulting
Steve Mitzel, Ashland School District
Parks Department
Michael Black, Director (available for questions)
Ashland Housing Capacity Analysis
Planning Commission DzPublic Hearing:
July 13, 2021
Housing Capacity Analysis Questions
AshlandǶs Buildable Lands Inventory
BLI Results Updated to 2020
Types of Housing Dzowner & renter occupied
Mix of Housing, Ashland
Source: U.S. Census, 2000, SF3 H30; U.S. Census, ACS 2010 and 2014-2018, B25024
Housing Tenure, Ashland
Source: U.S. Census 2000 and 2010, SF3 H032; U.S. Census, ACS 2014-2018, B25003.
Household Composition and Size, 2018
Source: U.S. Census, Decennial Census ACS 2014-2018
Median Sales Price, August DzOct 2020
Source: Southern Oregon Multiple Listing Service.
Rental Housing Costs, 2018
Source: CPM Real Estate Services,
December 2020.
Source: U.S. Census, ACS 2014-2018
Local Factors Affecting Needed Housing
What types of Housing are Needed?
Financially Attainable Housing
47% of new households will be lower income
Source: U.S. Census, American Community Survey 5-year Estimates, 2015-2019.
Forecast of New Housing, 2021 to 2041
Land Sufficiency Results
Community Open House and Questionnaire
Community Open House and Questionnaire
Community Open House and Survey
Ashland Housing Strategies
Ashland Housing Strategies
Housing Capacity Analysis Public Hearings
o
o
Housing Capacity Analysis Public Hearings
FINDINGS
_________________________________
PA-T2-2021-00028
364 Walker Avenue
DRAFT
BEFORE THE PLANNING COMMISSION
August 10, 2021
IN THE MATTER OF PLANNING ACTION #PA-T2-2021-00028, A REQUEST FOR )
SITE DESIGN REVIEW APPROVAL TO CONSTRUCT A 22,450 SQUARE FOOT, )
SINGLE-STORY ADDITION TO WALKER ELEMENTARY SCHOOL AT 364 )
WALKER AVENUE. AS PART OF THE PROPOSAL, THE PARKING LOT AND )
DRAFT
DROP-OFF LANE WOULD BE RELOCATED AND EXPANDED, WITH NEW )
FINDINGS,
ACCESS TO BE TAKEN VIA HUNTER COURT, THE DRIVEWAY FOR HUNTER )
CONCLUSIONS &
PARK, AND A NEW COURTYARD WOULD BE CREATED. THE APPLICATION )
ORDERS
ALSO INCLUDES REQUESTS FOR A CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT TO MODIFY )
THE ASHLAND )
(PA #2012-00899) TO ALLOW NEW SIGNAGE FOR WALKER ELEMENTARY )
SCHOOL IN CONJUNCTION WITH THE PROPOSED ADDITION, AND TREE )
REMOVAL PERMITS TO REMOVE 14 TREES. AN EXISTING 9,700 SQUARE FOOT)
CLASSROOM WILL BE DEMOLISHED IN CONJUNCTION WITH THE PROPOSAL. )
)
APPLICANT:
HMK COMPANY )
OWNERS:
ASHLAND SCHOOLD DIST. #5 )
CITY OF ASHLAND/ )
ASHLAND PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION )
)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
RECITALS:
1) Tax lot #3600of Map 39 1E 10 is the Walker Elementary School campus located at 364 Walker
Avenue and is zoned Single Family Residential (R-1-5). Tax lot #3500 of Map 39 1E 10 is Hunter Park, a
public park which is also zoned Single Family Residential (R-1-5).
2) The applicant is requesting Site Design Review approval for a 22,450 square foot, single-story
addition to Walker Elementary School at 364 Walker Avenue. As part of the proposal, the parking lot
and drop-off lane would be relocated and expanded, with new access to be taken via Hunter Court, the
driveway serving Hunter Park, and a new courtyard would be created. The application also includes
requests for a Conditional Use Permit to modify the School Master Sign Permit Program
(PA#2012-00899) to allow new signage for Walker Elementary School in conjunction with the proposed
addition, and Tree Removal Permits to remove 14 significant trees. An existing 9,700 square foot
classroom will be demolished in conjunction with the proposal. The proposal is outlined in plans on file
at the Department of Community Development.
PA-T2-2021-00028
August 1, 2021
Page 1
AMC 18.5.2.050
3) The criteria for Site Design Review approval are detailed in as follows:
A. Underlying Zone: The proposal complies with all of the applicable provisions of the underlying zone (part
18.2), including but not limited to: building and yard setbacks, lot area and dimensions, density and floor area,
lot coverage, building height, building orientation, architecture, and other applicable standards.
B. Overlay Zones: The proposal complies with applicable overlay zone requirements (part 18.3).
C. Site Development and Design Standards: The proposal complies with the applicable Site Development and
Design Standards of part 18.4, except as provided by subsection E, below.
D. City Facilities: The proposal complies with the applicable standards in section 18.4.6 Public Facilities and
that adequate capacity of City facilities for water, sewer, electricity, urban storm drainage, paved access to
and throughout the property and adequate transportation can and will be provided to the subject property.
E. Exception to the Site Development and Design Standards. The approval authority may approve
exceptions to the Site Development and Design Standards of part 18.4 if the circumstances in either
subsection 1 or 2, below, are found to exist.
1. There is a demonstrable difficulty meeting the specific requirements of the Site Development and
Design Standards due to a unique or unusual aspect of an existing structure or the proposed use of
a site; and approval of the exception will not substantially negatively impact adjacent properties; and
approval of the exception is consistent with the stated purpose of the Site Development and Design;
and the exception requested is the minimum which would alleviate the difficulty.; or
2. There is no demonstrable difficulty in meeting the specific requirements, but granting the exception
will result in a design that equally or better achieves the stated purpose of the Site Development and
Design Standards.
AMC 18.5.4.050.A
4) The approval criteria for a Conditional Use Permit are detailed in as follows:
1. That the use would be in conformance with all standards within the zoning district in which
the use is proposed to be located, and in conformance with relevant Comprehensive plan
policies that are not implemented by any City, State, or Federal law or program.
2. That adequate capacity of City facilities for water, sewer, electricity, urban storm drainage,
paved access to and throughout the development, and adequate transportation can and
will be provided to the subject property.
3. That the conditional use will have no greater adverse material effect on the livability of the
impact area when compared to the development of the subject lot with the target use of
the zone, pursuant with subsection 18.5.4.050.A.5, below. When evaluating the effect of
the proposed use on the impact area, the following factors of livability of the impact area
shall be considered in relation to the target use of the zone.
a. Similarity in scale, bulk, and coverage.
b. Generation of traffic and effects on surrounding streets. Increases in pedestrian,
bicycle, and mass transit use are considered beneficial regardless of capacity of
facilities.
c. Architectural compatibility with the impact area.
d. Air quality, including the generation of dust, odors, or other environmental
pollutants.
e. Generation of noise, light, and glare.
f. The development of adjacent properties as envisioned in the Comprehensive Plan.
PA-T2-2021-00028
August 1, 2021
Page 2
g. Other factors found to be relevant by the approval authority for review of the
proposed use.
4. A conditional use permit shall not allow a use that is prohibited or one that is not permitted
pursuant to this ordinance.
5. For the purposes of reviewing conditional use permit applications for conformity with the
approval criteria of this subsection, the target uses of each zone are as follows.
b. R-1. Residential use complying with all ordinance requirements, developed at the
density permitted by chapter 18.2.5 Standards for Residential Zones.
AMC 18.5.7.040.B
5) The approval criteria for a Tree Removal Permit are described in as follows:
1.Hazard Tree. A Hazard Tree Removal Permit shall be granted if the approval authority finds that the
application meets all of the following criteria, or can be made to conform through the imposition of conditions.
a.The applicant must demonstrate that the condition or location of the tree presents a clear public
safety hazard (i.e., likely to fall and injure persons or property) or a foreseeable danger of property
damage to an existing structure or facility, and such hazard or danger cannot reasonably be
alleviated by treatment, relocation, or pruning. See definition of hazard tree in part 18.6.
b. The City may require the applicant to mitigate for the removal of each hazard tree pursuant to section
18.5.7.050. Such mitigation requirements shall be a condition of approval of the permit.
2. Tree That is Not a Hazard. A Tree Removal Permit for a tree that is not a hazard shall be granted if the
approval authority finds that the application meets all of the following criteria, or can be made to conform
through the imposition of conditions.
a. The tree is proposed for removal in order to permit the application to be consistent with other
applicable Land Use Ordinance requirements and standards, including but not limited to applicable
Site Development and Design Standards in part 18.4 and Physical and Environmental Constraints
in part 18.10.
b. Removal of the tree will not have a significant negative impact on erosion, soil stability, flow of surface
waters, protection of adjacent trees, or existing windbreaks.
c. Removal of the tree will not have a significant negative impact on the tree densities, sizes, canopies,
and species diversity within 200 feet of the subject property. The City shall grant an exception to this
criterion when alternatives to the tree removal have been considered and no reasonable alternative
exists to allow the property to be used as permitted in the zone.
d. Nothing in this section shall require that the residential density to be reduced below the permitted
density allowed by the zone. In making this determination, the City may consider alternative site
plans or placement of structures of alternate landscaping designs that would lessen the impact on
trees, so long as the alternatives continue to comply with the other provisions of this ordinance.
e. The City shall require the applicant to mitigate for the removal of each tree granted approval pursuant
to section 18.5.7.050. Such mitigation requirements shall be a condition of approval of the permit.
PA-T2-2021-00028
August 1, 2021
Page 3
AMC 15.04.216
6) The Demolition and Relocation Standards are described in detail in as follows:
A. For demolition or relocation of structures erected more than 45 years prior to the date of
the application:
1. The applicant must demonstrate that either subparagraphs a or b apply:
a. The structure cannot be rehabilitated or reused on site as part of any
economically beneficial use of the property. In determining whether an
economically beneficial use can be made of the property, the Demolition
Review committee may require the applicant to:
(i) Furnish an economic feasibility report prepared by an architect,
developer, or appraiser, or other person who is experienced in
rehabilitation of buildings that addresses the estimated market
value of the property on which the building lies, both before and
after demolition or removal, or
(ii) Market the property utilizing a marketing plan approved by the
Demolition Review Committee or by advertising the property in the
Ashland Daily Tidings and Medford Mail Tribune at least eight times
and at regular intervals for at least 90 days and by posting a for sale
sign on the property, four to six square feet in size and clearly visible
from the street, for the same 90 day period.
b. The structure proposed for demolition is structurally unsound despite
efforts by the owner to properly maintain the structure.
2. In addition to subparagraphs a or b above, the applicant must also:
a. Submit a redevelopment plan for the site that provides for replacement or
rebuilt structure for the structure being demolished or relocated. The
replacement or rebuilt structure must be a minimum of 1,000 square feet,
unless the structure being demolished or relocated is less than 1,000
square feet. If the structure is less than 1,000 square feet, the replacement
structure must be a minimum of 500 square feet. The redevelopment plan
must indicate in sufficient detail the nature, appearance and location of all
replacement or rebuilt structures. No replacement structure is required,
however, if:
(i) the applicant agrees to restrict the property to open space uses and
a finding is made that such restriction constitutes a greater benefit
to the neighborhood than redevelopment would, or
(ii) the structure being demolished or relocated is a nonhabitable
accessory structure.
b. Demonstrate, if the application is for a demolition, the structure cannot be
practicably relocated to another site.
3. If a permit is issued and the redevelopment plan:
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a. Requires a site review permit, no demolition or relocation may occur until
the site review permit has been issued, unless the site is restricted to open
space uses as provided in section 15.04.216.A.2.
b. Does not require a site review permit, no demolition or relocation may occur
until the building permit has been issued for the replacement or rebuilt
structure, unless the site is restricted to open spaces uses as provided in
section 15.04.216.A.2.
4. The Demolition Review Committee may require the applicant to post with the City
a bond, or other suitable collateral as determined by the City administrator,
ensuring the safe demolition of the structure and the completed performance of
the redevelopment plan.
B. For demolition or relocation of structures erected less than 45 years from the date of the
application:
1. The applicant:
a. Has the burden of proving the structure was erected less than 45 years
from the date of the application. Any structure erected less than 45 years
from the date of the application, which replaced a structure demolished or
relocated under section 15.04.216, shall be considered a structure subject
to the standards in subsections 15.04.216.
b. Must submit a redevelopment plan for the site that provides for a
replacement or rebuilt structure being demolished or relocated. The
replacement or rebuilt structure must be a minimum of 1,000 square feet,
unless the structure being demolished ore relocated is less than 1,000
square feet. If the structure is less than 1,000 square feet, the replacement
structure must be a minimum of 500 square feet. The redevelopment plan
must indicate in sufficient detail the nature, appearance and location of all
replacement or rebuilt structures. No replacement structure is required,
however, if:
(i) the applicant agrees to restrict the property to open space uses and
a finding is made that such restriction constitutes a greater benefit
to the neighborhood than redevelopment would, or
(ii) the structure being demolished or relocated is a nonhabitable
accessory structure.
2. If a permit is issued and the redevelopment plan:
a. Requires a site review permit, no demolition or relocation may occur until
the site review permit has been issued, unless the site is restricted to open
space uses as provided in section 15.04.216.B.
b. Does not require a site review permit, no demolition or relocation may occur
until a building permit has been issued for the structure or structures to be
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replaced or rebuilt, unless the site is restricted to open space uses as
provided in section 15.04.216.B.
C. For any demolition approved under this section, the applicant is required to salvage or
recycle construction and demolition debris, in accordance with a demolition debris
diversion plan that complies with the requirements adopted the Demolition Review
Committee. The applicant shall submit such a plan with the application for demolition.
For any relocation approved under this section, the applicant must also comply with the
provisions of Chapter 15.08. (Ord. 2925, amended, 04/18/2006; Ord. 2891, amended,
11/19/2002; Ord. 2858, amended, 06/20/2000; Ord. 2852, added, 01/21/2000)
7) On April 15, 2020 Governor Kate Brown issued Executive Order #20-16 Keep Government
Working: Ordering Necessary Measures to Ensure Safe Public Meetings and Continued Operations by
Local Government During Coronavirus (COVID-19) Outbreak
public bodies hold public meetings by telephone, video, or through some other electronic or virtual means,
whenever possible; that the public body make available a method by which the public can listen to or
virtually attend the public meeting or hearing at the time it occurs; that the public body does not have to
provide a physical space for the public to attend the meeting or hearing; that requirements that oral public
testimony be taken during hearings be suspended, and that public bodies instead provide a means for
submitting written testimony by e-mail or other electronic methods that the public body can consider in a
timely manner. The Oregon Legislature subsequently passed House Bill #4212 which authorizes local
governments to hold all meetings of their governing bodies, including taking public testimony, using
telephone or video conferencing technology or through other electronic or virtual means provided that
they supply a means by which the public can listen to or observe the meeting. This bill requires that
recordings of the meetings be made available to the public if technology allows, and includes provisions
in writing via e-mail or other
electronic means.
8) The Ashland Planning Commission, following proper public notice, held an electronic initial
evidentiary hearing on March 9, 2021. The applicant then provided a 90-day extension to the 120-day
timeclock to allow adequate time for their negotiations with the Ashland Parks & Recreation Commission to
secure permission for the use Hunter Court.
, the Planning Commission,
following property public notice, then held an electronic public hearing on July 13, 2021. In keeping with
Executive Order #20-16, both of these meetings were broadcast live on local television channel 9 and on
Charter Communications channels 180 & 181, and were also live-streamed over the internet on RVTV
Prime at rvtv.sou.edu.
The application, including all documents, evidence and applicable criteria relied upon by the applicant,
and the staff report were made available on-line seven days prior to the public hearing, with in-person
review available by appointment, and printed copies available at a reasonable cost. Those wishing to
provide testimony were invited to submit written comments via e-mail by 10:00 a.m. on Monday, July 12,
2021, and the applicant was able to provide written rebuttal to this testimony by 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday,
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July 13, 2021. Comments and rebuttal received were made available on-line and e-mailed to Planning
Commissioners before the hearing and included in the meeting minutes. As provided in the
Executive Order #20-16, testimony was also taken electronically during the tele-conferenced meeting
from those members of the public who had pre-arranged to provide oral testimony by 10:00 a.m. on
Tuesday, July 13, 2021.
After the closing of the hearing and the record, the Planning Commission deliberated and approved the
application subject to conditions pertaining to the appropriate development of the site.
Now, therefore, the Planning Commission of the City of Ashland finds, concludes and recommends as
follows:
SECTION 1. EXHIBITS
For the purposes of reference to these Findings, the index of exhibits, data, and testimony below will be used:
Staff Exhibits lettered with an "S"
Proponent's Exhibits, lettered with a "P"
Opponent's Exhibits, lettered with an "O"
Hearing Minutes, Notices, Miscellaneous Exhibits lettered with an "M"
SECTION 2. FINDINGS & CONCLUSIONS
2.1 The Planning Commission finds that it has received all information necessary to make a decision
based on the staff report, written public testimony and the exhibits received.
2.2 The Planning Commission finds that the proposal for Site Design Review approval, Conditional Use
Permit, and Tree Removal Permit meets all applicable criteria for Site Design Review described in AMC
18.5.2.050; for Conditional Use Permit described in AMC 18.5.4.050; and for a Tree Removal Permit
described in AMC 18.5.7.040.B.
2.3 The Planning Commission concludes that the proposal satisfies all applicable criteria for Site
Design Review approval.
The first approval criterion addresses the requirements of the underlying zone, requiring that, The
proposal complies with all of the applicable provisions of the underlying zone (part 18.2), including but
not limited to: building and yard setbacks, lot area and dimensions, density and floor area, lot coverage,
The Planning
Commission finds that the building and yard setbacks and other applicable standards have been evaluated
to ensure consistency with the applicable provisions of part 18.2, and all regulations of the underlying R-
1-5 zoning will be satisfied. The Planning Commission finds that this criterion is satisfied.
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The second approval criterion deals with overlay zones, and requires that,The proposal complies with
The Planning Commission finds that the subject
property is located within the Wildfire Lands Overlay, and as such a Fire Prevention and Control Plan
addressing the General Fuel Modification Area requirements in AMC 18.3.10.100.A.2 will need to be
provided for the review and approval of the Fire Marshal prior to bringing combustible materials onto the
property. New landscaping proposed will need to comply with these standards and shall not include plants
listed on the Prohibited Flammable Plant List per Resolution 2018-028. Conditions to this effect have
been included below and are attached to this approval. Based on the foregoing, the Planning Commission
finds that this criterion is satisfied.
The proposal
complies with the applicable Site Development and Design Standards of part 18.4, except as provided by
The Planning Commission notes that the applicable standards here are the Building Placement, Orientation
and Design (AMC 18.4.2); Parking, Access and Circulation (AMC 18.4.3); Landscaping, Lighting and
Screening (AMC 18.4.4); Tree Preservation and Protection (AMC 18.4.5); and Solar Access (AMC
18.4.8). Public Facilities (AMC 18.4.6) are addressed separately under the next approval criterion, and
Sign Permit Program Conditional Use Permit in section 2.4 below.
With regard to the Building Placement, Orientation and Design Standards in AMC 18.4.2, the Planning
Commission finds that the Walker Elementary School campus has an established orientation to Walker
Avenue, the higher order of the two streets it fronts upon, and the proposed addition has been placed and
designed to function with the proposed changes to site circulation while not detracting from the established
sense of entry or orientation to Walker Avenue. The application notes that a local historic preservation
specialist has been consulted. The historic preservation specialist has indicated that Walker Elementary
will likely prove to be a historically significant building and has worked with the applicant team through
the design phase in seeking to minimize impacts to the historical significance while
still meeting the needs of the district. To that end, the proposed design is compatible with the existing
The Planning Commission finds that the existing Walker Elementary School buildings do not occupy the
s street frontage and includes parking and circulation between the buildings
and the street. AMC 18.4.2.040.B.6 provides that for sites that do not conform to the Non-Residential
Development Standards, an equal percentage of the site must be made to comply with the standards as the
percentage of building expansion. In this instance, the Commission finds that with the demolition of a
9,700 square foot classroom building and construction of a new 22,450 square foot classroom building,
approximately 12,750 square feet are being added which equates to an approximately 52 percent addition
to the existing 24,650 square foot school. The Commission finds that the removal of the parent pick-up
and drop-off loop between the building and the intersection of Walker Homes Avenues, the relocation of
parking and circulation to the rear of the building, and the placement of the addition nearer to, and
extending eastward along, Homes Avenue proportionally addresses these non-conformities.
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With regard to the Parking, Access and Circulation standards in AMC 18.4.3, the Planning Commission
notes that the off-street automobile parking requirement for an elementary school is the greater of 1.5
spaces per classroom or one space per 75 square feet of public assembly area. The application materials
explain that the public assembly area on campus is the 4,938 square foot gymnasium which requires 66
(4,938 square feet/75 square feet per space = 65.84 spaces)
off-street parking spaces . The Planning
Commission finds that the 66 automobile parking spaces proposed satisfy the off-street parking
requirements for Walker Elementary School.
The Commission further notes that the bicycle parking requirement for elementary schools is that one
sheltered bicycle parking space be provided for every five students. The application explains that the
student capacity for Walker Elementary is up to 350 students, which means that 70 sheltered bicycle
(350 students/1 space per 5 students = 70 spaces)
parking spaces are required . The application notes
that there are presently only 22 covered bicycle parking spaces on campus, located on the north side of
the gym building, and proposes to add two banks with of 24 bicycle parking spaces \[22 existing spaces +
(2 x 24 proposed spaces) = 70 total spaces\]. The Planning Commission finds that with the addition of
two banks of 24 sheltered bicycle parking spaces, the bicycle parking requirements for the school satisfy
the requirements of AMC 18.4.3.070. Conditions have been included below to ensure that the racks
installed are consistent with the bicycle parking design (AMC 18.4.3.070.I) and bicycle parking rack
(AMC 18.4.3.070.J) standards.
The Planning Commission further finds that the Pedestrian Access & Circulation Standards in AMC
that does not deviate unnecessarily from a straight line or a
route that does not involve a significant amount of out-of-The circulation
adjacent to the northernmost driveway on Hunter Court directs pedestrians out of direction, and must be
adjusted so that the walkway crossing the driveway has a direct connection to the proposed path to the
north. In addition, the path to the north needs to have a ramp to accommodate cyclists coming from Hunter
Court, as illustrated below:
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The Commission further finds that Public Works/Engineering Division staff has noted that at the
crosswalk crossing Hunter Court the applicant will need to install fully-accessible ADA ramps on both
the west and east sides of Hunter Court so that someone crossing can cross completely to ensure that
accessibility is provided to all users to meet federal and state accessibility standards. Condition to this
effect have been included below.
The parking lot will include requisite landscaping buffers, the planting of new parking lot shade trees, and
a bio-swale for the on-site detention and treatment of stormwater on-site. Parking lot shade trees are to
include a mix of Zelkovas, Maples and Kentucky Yellowwood trees, all of which have been selected for
their large canopies, for not causing root damage, and for not dropping materials on vehicles or
pedestrians.
With regard to the Landscaping, Lighting and Screening standards in AMC 18.4.4, the Planning
Commission finds that the application includes a proposed landscape plan created by a local landscape
architect and uses a variety of deciduous trees, shrubs, and ground covers. Due to the wildfire hazards
overlay, no evergreen trees are proposed. The plants selected are appropriate for the local climate and
exposure, and water-tolerant species are proposed within the stormwater detention facilities. The planting
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plan allows for natural surveillance of the public space. New street trees are proposed along Homes
Avenue behind the sidewalk. There is a large stature Raywood Ash tree on the Hunter Court frontage that
is preserved with the proposed street improvements. Additional street trees are proposed behind the
sidewalk and in the landscape park row planting strip between the parking area and Hunter Court. The
proposed landscaping plant materials are low water use and meet the requirements of 18.4.4.030.I.
With regard to the Tree Preservation and Protection standards in AMC 18.4.5, the Planning Commission
finds that the application materials include a Tree Protection and Removal Plan which identifies the trees
on and adjacent to the property, and identifies those which are to be removed and protection for those that
are to be preserved. The application explains that 14 significant trees are proposed for removal and require
Tree Removal Permits, and that the removals are proposed because the trees are within the areas of
construction of the addition, the relocated parking area, or the improvements adjacent to Hunter Court and
would be unable to survive the impacts from construction.
The Planning Commission finds that the tree protection measures proposed are consistent with the
standards, and conditions have been included below to require that 14 mitigation trees be identified in the
final landscape plan provided with the building permit submittals, and that tree protection be installed and
site-verified by the staff advisory prior to site work, staging or storage of materials. The Tree Commission
reviewed the application at its regular meeting on July 8, 2021 and recommended approval of the request,
Planting Plan be modified to include three to four large-
stature-at-- The Tree
Commissioners specifically recommended Incense Cedar (calocedrus decurrens) or Giant Sequoia
(sequoiadendron giganteum) as mitigation trees, noting that with the new fire regulations, a site of this size
is one of the few that will allow removed conifers to be mitigated. This recommendation has been
incorporated into the condition of approval.
With regard to the Solar Access standards in AMC 18.4.8, the Planning Commission finds that the R-1-5
over the north property line to no greater shadow than would be cast by a six-foot fence on the
With the subject property having a north slope of approximately -0.032, a
-foot parapet height \[(20
feet 6 feet)/(0.445 - 0.032) = 33.89 feet required solar setback\]. Here, the single-story addition is being
placed at the south end of the property, and is roughly 570 feet from the north property line. As such, the
Planning Commission finds that the proposed addition easily complies with the Standard A solar setback.
The Planning Commission concludes that the third approval criterion has been satisfied.
The fourth approval criterion addresses city facilities, specifically requiring that, The proposal complies
with the applicable standards in section 18.4.6 Public Facilities and that adequate capacity of City
facilities for water, sewer, electricity, urban storm drainage, paved access to and throughout the property
and adequate tranThe Planning Commission
finds that adequate capacity of city facilities, paved access to and throughout the property, and adequate
transportation can and will be provided to the subject property.
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The Commission notes that existing public facilities are in place and currently serve the Walker
Elementary School campus and its buildings. The applicant asserts that adequate city facilities exist to
service the proposed new classroom building, and further indicates that the proposal substantially
upgrades the storm drainage facilities, which are currently inadequate. The applicant emphasizes that the
civil engineering plans (Sheets C2.1 Erosion Control Plan, C3.0 Overall Civil Site Plan, C.4 Overall
Grading Plan, C.5 Overall Site Utility Plan) provide necessary details to demonstrate proposed site
development and construction can comply with city standards. The applicant further details:
Water: There is a four-inch main in Walker Avenue, and a six-inch main in Homes Avenue. Fire
hydrants are in place on Walker Avenue, Homes Avenue and Hunter Court. A new fire vault will be
installed to the west of the relocated driveway from Homes Avenue. The water line sizes are
substantial and provide adequate water pressure for the additional classroom area and the fire
suppression system.
Sewer: There is an eight- and ten-inch sewer lines in place in Walker Avenue; a ten-inch sewer main
within the Homes Avenue right-of-way; and a six-inch sanitary sewer line in Hunter Court. A new
sanitary sewer later is proposed to extend from the new addition to Walker Avenue. After
discussions with Public Works, there are no known sewer capacity issues.
Electrical: There are overhead electrical facilities in place along Walker Avenue, and private electrical
facilities (i.e. junction boxes, vaults) in place. The project team is unaware of any capacity issues. A
new transformer is proposed on the east side of Walker Avenue, north of the bus loop, to serve the
additional classroom space and upgrade the existing services. The applicants also note that new LED
lighting automatic shut-off timers will be used throughout to gain conserve power with the project.
Urban Storm Drainage: There are existing eight-inch storm sewer mains in place in the Walker
Avenue right-of-way and in Hunter Court. The application proposes substantial stormwater quality
improvements with a large, landscaped bio-swale to be constructed on the north side of the new
Quality (DEQ) permitting standards.
Paved Access & Adequate Transportation: Walker Avenue is considered an Avenue in the
Transportation System Plan (TSP), and is currently improved with paving, curbs, gutters, and curbside
-foot curb-to-curb width in a 60-foot right-
of-way. Other than the removal of the current parent drop-off and pick-up looped driveway near
the corner, no modifications are proposed to the Walker Avenue frontage.
Homes Avenue is also considered a neighborhood street in the TSP. City street design standards
would typically call for a right-of-way width of from 47- to 57-feet, depending on the on-street
parking configuration, however the existing Homes Avenue right-of-way is only 16-feet with an
additional 24-long the north (i.e. school) side which contains
paving, curbs, gutters and curbside sidewalks. The existing curb-to-curb improvement is 26 feet in
width. With the current Site Design Review request, a condition of approval has been included to
require that this public right-of-way. With the
proposal, an existing parent drop-off and pick-up looped driveway near the Homes and Walker
Avenues intersection will be relocated to the east toward Hunter Court.
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The existing parking lot for staff, parents and visitors is accessed via a curb cut from Homes Avenue.
This parking area lacks required landscape buffers, and there are no landscape islands, no designated
pedestrian access, and no parking lot shade trees.
the parent drop-off loop which enters from Homes Avenue and exits to Walker Avenue. The existing
driveways on Homes Avenue are further from the intersection than required under the controlled
access standards in AMC 18.4.3.080.C.3, but the two driveways are relatively close together, at
roughly 40 feet apart, given the traffic volumes during drop-off and pick-up times. For Homes
Avenue, a combination of factors including the narrow right-of-way and narrow improved street
width, vehicular turning movements, heavier pedestrian activity in addition to pick-up and drop-off
traffic lead to congestion at the intersection of Walker and Homes not only from Walker Elementary,
but also from Ashland Middle School, which is located a short distance to the north along Walker
Avenue and sees parent drop-off and pick-up traffic at roughly the same times.
Hunter Court is identified in the Transportation System Plan (TSP) as a future neighborhood street,
however it is not dedicated as public right-of-way and is instead located on the private tax lot for
Hunter Park and serves as a private driveway for park patrons. Existing improvements include
paving, curbs and gutters with a five-foot curbside sidewalk on the east (park) side. From Homes
Avenue north, the first 130-feet of Hunter Court has an approximate curb-to-curb width of 25-feet,
after which it widens to approximately 37 feet. The narrower width section was installed to
accommodate the Senior Center, whiIn allowing the school
to utilize Hunter Court, the Ashland Parks & Recreation Commission (AP&RC) sought to have the new
school driveway align with the driveway across Hunter Court serving the pool, to increase the paved
width to avoid constriction points in the narrower segment near the intersection with Homes
Avenue, and to ensure that student bicycle and pedestrian circulation from the Central Ashland
Bikepath (CAB) onto the campus was provided for without elementary school-age students having
to directly interact with cars on Hunter Court.
The application materials explain that with the current site layout at Walker Elementary is that there
is inadequate parking in place for the school (i.e. 46 spaces are in place, while 66 spaces are required
under current standards) and inadequate space for safe student drop-off and pick-up separate from
both the surrounding street traffic and from parking lot circulation.
The proposed modifications to the
site layout and access bring the property closer to compliance with design standards by shifting the
parking spaces and student drop-off area to the rear of the building, away from Walker Avenue and
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Homes Avenue, increasing separation between intersections, providing the required number of
parking spaces, planting parking lot shade trees and providing landscape bio-swale for the treatment
of stormwater on the site.
A five-foot granite path is proposed to be installed on the west (school) side of Hunter Court to
connect the Central Ashland Bikepath(CAB) to campus north of the new driveway as required by the
AP&RC. New pedestrian crossings will be provided at the driveway, and south of the new driveway
Hunter Court is to be widened to provide two travel lanes as well as landscaped parkrow and
sidewalk. Existing trees along Hunter Court are proposed to be removed to accommodate these
improvements, including a large multi-trunked Ash (Tree #16). In the discussions between the
applicant and the Ashland Parks & Recreation Commission (AP&RC) it was noted that these tree
removals were necessary to accommodate the proposed improvements while retaining two on-
street accessible parking spaces which serve the Ashland Senior Center in Hunter Park. The
application also proposes to provide a new ADA-accessible pedestrian ramp and crossing of Hunter
Court.
The application includes a technical memo from Sandow Engineering which evaluates the access and
vehicle routing for the proposal. This memo indicates that entering vehicle routes will not change
substantially enough to have a different effect on the street system, outside of the specific changes to
Homes Avenue, than the existing access. Similarly, Sandow finds that exiting trips will likely have no
change in their routing, and will likely travel out to Walker Avenue rather than crossing turning traffic to
head toward Normal Avenue when Walker Avenue provides a quicker, safer and easier route to either
Ashland Street or Siskiyou Boulevard. The Technical Memo indicates that the relocation of the access
point will reduce conflict points and improve overall safety (for automobiles, pedestrians and bicycles)
along Walker Avenue, and explains that the current drop-off loop allows 11 vehicles to queue on-site
before they spill into Homes Avenue, where an additional ten cars can queue before they impact the
intersection of Walker and Homes, where they have the potential to frequently block the intersection.
The memo notes that with the proposed changes to the circulation plan, the available queuing area on
campus increases to 15 vehicles, with room for another 11 to queue on Hunter Court before Homes
Avenue is impacted.
White pavement markings be provided to delineate pick-up and drop-off circulation.
That the five parking spaces north of the new parking lot be designated spaces (staff or
authorized parking only) to keep them from being used during pick-up and drop-off times.
No on-street parking on the north side of Homes Avenue from Hunter court to 25 feet west of
the site driveway during drop-off and pick-up times.
No parking on the west side of Hunter Court from Homes Avenue to the new driveway during
drop-off and pick-up times.
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That the turn lane proposed on Hunter Court be a minimum of 75 feet in length.
safely within typical peak school traffic conditions and will provide adequate and safe access and
circulation for
recommendations conditions of this approval.
The Planning Commission finds that facilities are in place to serve the existing campus buildings, that
adequate key city facilities can and will be provided to serve the new classroom building, and that based
on applicant and staff consultations with representatives of the various City departments (i.e. water, sewer,
streets and electric) the proposed addition will not cause a City facility to operate beyond capacity. The
Commission further finds that the project is intended to improve accessibility, safety, security and site
circulation, but with the demolition and addition proposed, student enrollment capacity, staffing and
anticipated vehicle trip generation are not increasing. The application includes civil drawings to address
the changes in site grading, drainage, utilities and access associated with the proposal, and includes a
determination by the project traffic engineer that with the proposed changes to circulation, Homes Avenue
and Hunter Court will operate safely during peak school traffic. Conditions have been included below to
require that final civil drawings detailing the final utility and infrastructure improvements be provided for
review and approval prior of the Building, Planning, Fire, Public Works and Electric Departments prior
to building permit issuance.
The Commission concludes that this criterion has been satisfied.
Exception to the Site Development and
Design Standards.No exceptions have been request, and the Commission concludes that this criterion
is not applicable here.
The Planning Commission concludes that as detailed above and with the conditions discussed, the
proposal complies with the requirements for Site Design Review approval.
2.4 The Planning Commission finds that the proposal satisfies the applicable standards for Conditional
sign permit program
under AMC 18.4.7.120 Governmental agencies may apply for a Conditional Use
Permit to place a sign that does not conform to this chapter when it is determined that, in addition to
Wa
Planning Action PA-2012-00899. Approved signage for Walker Elementary included two wall signs,
noting that one wall sign was existing in 2012 to identify the school along the front of the building facing
Walker Avenue. A second wall sign is not clearly identified, although the proposal discussed eventually
completing a wall graphic as student art to encourage school pride, improve student art skills, enhance the
by the Public Arts Commission. Wall sign size/area was also not clearly discussed for Walker, although
other campus signage allowed for one foot of sign area for each lineal foot of building frontage for
(which is similar to the commercial wall
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sign area limits). The building frontage along Homes here is significantly more than 60 linear feet, and
the new sign proposed is 52.5 square feet. Other approved signage included an existing ground sign with
reader board at the corner of Walker and Homes to identify the school and announce special events,
activities, holidays and PTA events. Additionally, the sign program allowed for two directional signs per
driveway entrance/exit to guide students, parents and visitors who are driving but not necessarily aware
of traffic patterns, and miscellaneous signs such as temporary banners to evoke school pride and student
participation in various school events. These temporary miscellaneous signs are to be posted for one
week, removed the day after the event, and are limited to four events per year.
The first criterioThat the use would be in conformance with all
standards within the zoning district in which the use is proposed to be located, and in conformance with
relevant Comprehensive plan policies that are not implemented by any City, State, or Federal law or
program. The application materials explain that the proposal seeks to modify the existing Ashland
School District Sign Program for Walker Elementary School by adding a wall sign along on the Homes
Avenue façade of the new -inch
tall letters approximately 35 feet long which equates to a sign area of approximately 52.5 feet. This is
within the 60 square foot wall signage area limitation that would apply to a commercial building, and
similar to other wall sign limits discussed in the sign permit program. The wall where the sign would be
placed is more than 35 feet from Homes Avenue.
That adequate capacity of City facilities for water, sewer, electricity,
urban storm drainage, paved access to and throughout the development, and adequate transportation can
and will be provided to the subject property
Commission finds that the proposed signage will have no effect on the provision of public facilities.
That the conditional use will have no greater adverse
material effect on the livability of the impact area when compared to the development of the subject lot
with the target use of the zone, pursuant to subsection 18.5.4.050.A.5, below. When evaluating the effect
of the proposed use on the impact area, the following factors of livability of the impact area shall be
considered in relation to the target use of the zone: a. Similarity in scale, bulk, and coverage; b.
Generation of traffic and effects on surrounding streets. Increases in pedestrian, bicycle, and mass transit
use are considered beneficial regardless of capacity of facilities; c. Architectural compatibility with the
impact area; d. Air quality, including the generation of dust, odors, or other environmental pollutants; e.
Generation of noise, light, and glare; f. The development of adjacent properties as envisioned in the
Comprehensive Plan; and g. Other factors found to be relevant by the approval authority for review of
The application materials explain that the target use for the property within the R-1-5
zone would be residential development with a minimum density of approximately 44 residential parcels,
and asserts that the proposed signage for the school will not have any greater adverse material effects on
the livability of the impact area than would residential development of the full density allowed. The
application emphasizes that the installation of additional signage to identify the building from Homes
Avenue and delineate the entrance will not adversely affect the neighborhood as it will not be illuminated,
and will not negatively impact the expansive façade of the frontage. The application recognizes
that while schools are not similar in bulk, scale, or coverage to structures in the surrounding residential
area, they serve the surrounding neighborhood and are in similar scale to nearby public buildings including
PA-T2-2021-00028
August 1, 2021
Page 16
the Ashland Middle School and buildings on the nearby Southern Oregon University campus. The
application concludes that the proposed signage is intended to identify the specific school for the
neighborhood population served by the school.
A conditional use permit shall not allow a use that is prohibited or
one that is not permitted according to this ordinance
school is an outright permitted use within the R-1-5 zoning district here, and further finds that the sign
code allows Governmental agencies may apply for a Conditional Use Permit to place a sign that
does not conform to this chapter when it is determined that, in addition to meeting the criteria for a
In approvi
was a unique public entity serving a large and diverse audience including students, parents, visitors and
the general public and providing both educational services and public gathering places, and that
appropriate signage improved transportation to and through the school property for this audience by
providing clear visual markers. The Commission finds that the proposed additional signage for the new
classroom here is in keeping with that original sign program approval and will continue to support the
The Planning Commission concludes that as detailed above, the proposal
complies with the requirements for Conditional Use Permit approval
purpose.
2.5 The Planning Commission finds that the proposal satisfies the applicable standards for Tree
Removal Permits to remove 14 significant trees.
The first approval criterion for a Tree Removal Permit to remove a tree that is not a hazard The
tree is proposed for removal in order to permit the application to be consistent with other applicable Land
Use Ordinance requirements and standards, including but not limited to applicable Site Development and
Design Standards in part 18.4 and Physical and Environmental Constraints in part 18.3.10. The
Commission notes that 14 significant trees are proposed for removal, and that the application materials
explain that the removals are to permit the proposal to be consistent with applicable ordinance
requirements and standards, including applicable Site Development and Design Standards. The Planning
Commission finds that the removals are proposed to accommodate the addition of a new classroom
building and to accommodate the widening of Hunter Court as part of a new site circulation plan intended
to better accommodate school traffic on the school property and on Hunter Court to limit impacts to the
surrounding public street. The Commission further finds that the Ashland Parks & Recreation
Commission has expressed support for the removals necessary for the widening of Hunter Court in order
to maintain existing on-street accessible parking on Hunter Court necessary to serve the adjacent Senior
Center.
Removal of the tree will not have a significant negative impact on
erosion, soil stability, flow of surface waters, protection of adjacent trees, or existing windbreaks. The
applicant indicates that the requested tree removals will not have significant negative impacts on erosion,
soil stability, the flow of surface waters, protection of adjacent trees, or existing windbreaks, and further
explains that the areas where trees are to be removed will be redeveloped with structures, hardscaping, or
PA-T2-2021-00028
August 1, 2021
Page 17
will re-landscaped. The application materials also emphasize that there are more than 100 trees on the
campus and adjacent to Hunter Court on the adjacent Hunter Park property.
Removal of the tree will not have a significant negative impact on the tree
densities, sizes, canopies, and species diversity within 200 feet of the subject property. The City shall grant
an exception to this criterion when alternatives to the tree removal have been considered and no
reasonable alternative exists to allow the property to be used as permitted in the zone.tion
materials indicate that there are more than 100 trees on the subject property and along the Hunter Court
corridor, and further suggest that the proximity to Hunter Park, which is heavily vegetated, provides
substantial species diversity, canopy coverage, and tree densities within 200 feet of the subject property.
The application materials conclude that the proposal replaces canopy, tree densities, sizes, and species
diversity with required mitigation trees.
Nothing in this section shall require
that the residential density to be reduced below the permitted density allowed by the zone. In making this
determination, the City may consider alternative site plans or placement of structures of alternate
landscaping designs that would lessen the impact on trees, so long as the alternatives continue to comply
with the other provisions of this ordinance.The Commission finds that there is no residential component
associated with the current application.
The City shall require the applicant to mitigate for the removal
of each tree granted approval pursuant to section 18.5.7.050. Such mitigation requirements shall be a
condition of approval of the permit.Commission finds that mitigation trees sufficient to meet this
requirement are proposed throughout the property. There are 14 significant trees proposed for removal,
and the landscape plan includes more than 30 replacement trees including Kentucky yellow trees, zelkova,
maple, and lindens, and includes the planting of new required street trees and 26 proposed shade trees for
the parking areas to reduce the microclimatic impacts of the pavement.
The Tree Commission reviewed the application at its regular meeting on July 8, 2021 and recommended
approval of the request, with the further recommendation that the applica
to include three to four large-stature-at--
being removed. The Tree Commissioners specifically recommended Incense Cedar (calocedrus
decurrens) or Giant Sequoia(sequoiadendron giganteum) as mitigation trees, noting that with the new
fire regulations, a site of this size is one of the few that will allow removed conifers to be mitigated. This
recommendation has been made a condition of approval.
The Planning Commission finds that the remaining trees which are to be preserved are proposed to be
protected with six-foot tall chain link fencing as recommended by the arborist and required in the
ditions have been included to
require tree protection fencing installation and verification before site work.
The Planning Commission concludes that as detailed above and with the conditions discussed, the
proposal complies with the requirements for Tree Protection and for Tree Removal Permits to remove
14 significant trees.
PA-T2-2021-00028
August 1, 2021
Page 18
2.6 With regard to the proposed demolition of the 9,700 square foot classroom, the Planning
Commission notes that the demolition and relocation of existing buildings is regulated through AMC
Chapter 15 Buildings and Constructionapproval of permits by the Building Official and the
potential for appeal to the Demolition Review Committee. The Commission finds that the applicant
has indicated that the 9,700 square foot classroom building is be demolished as part of the larger, bond-
funded project which includes the construction of a new 22,450 square foot classroom building, the
creation of a central courtyard, and reconfiguration of the on-site parking and circulation plan. A
condition has been included below to make clear that the applicant will need to obtain requisite permits
for demolition through the Building Official prior to commencement of demolition work.
SECTION 3. DECISION
3.1 Based on the record of the Public Hearing on this matter, the Planning Commission concludes that
the proposal for Site Design Review, Conditional Use and Tree Removal permit approvals to construct a
new 22,450 square-foot, single-story addition and associated changes to the campus site planning, modify
approved signage and remove 14 significant trees is supported by evidence contained within
the whole record.
For the Commission, the proposed addition has been thoughtfully designed and placed with the help of a
local historic preservation consultant to ensure that the building will not detract from or compete with the
original portion of the building oriented to Walker Avenue. The proposed placement creates a better
relationship to Homes Avenue, helps to frame a more central courtyard area, and supports a reorganization
the parking and circulation plan which, with the use of Hunter Court, will help to lessen the impacts of
parent drop-off and pick-up traffic to the surrounding public streets by better accommodating queuing off-
street.
Therefore, based on our overall conclusions, and upon the proposal being subject to each of the following
conditions, we approve Planning Action #PA-T2-2021-00028. Further, if any one or more of the conditions
below are found to be invalid, for any reason whatsoever, then Planning Action #2021-00028 is denied. The
following are the conditions and they are attached to the approval:
1.That all proposals of the applicant are conditions of approval unless otherwise modified herein,
including but not limited to the applicant adding an additional lane and repaving Hunter Court
from curb-to-curb, and providing a pedestrian and bicycle path for students from the Central
Ashland Bikepath, as illustrated in the draft agreement with the Ashland Parks and Recreation
Commission provided in the record.
2.That the plans submitted for the building permit shall be in conformance with those approved as
part of this application. If the plans submitted for the building permit are not in substantial
conformance with those approved as part of this application, an application to modify this approval
shall be submitted and approved prior to the issuance of a building permit.
3.That a sign permit shall be obtained prior to the installation of signage. Signage shall be consistent
with that described herein and shall be placed in a manner consistent with the vision clearance
standards of AMC 18.2.4.040.
PA-T2-2021-00028
August 1, 2021
Page 19
4.That all requirements of the Fire Department shall be satisfactorily addressed, including approved
addressing; fire apparatus access including aerial ladder access, turn-around, firefighter access
pathways and work area; fire hydrant spacing, distance and clearance; fire flow; fire sprinkler
system if applicable; fire extinguishers; limitations on gates or fences; providing required fuel
breaks; and meeting the general fuel modification area standards.
5.That mechanical equipment shall be screened from view from the surrounding streets, and the
location and screening of all mechanical equipment shall be detailed on the building permit
submittals.
6.That the applicant shall obtain applicable demolition permits through the Building Division if
deemed necessary by the Building Official prior to the commencement of any building demolition
on site.
7.That the applicant shall dedicate the existing 24-foot wide street reservation area on the north side
of Holmes Avenue as public right-of-way prior to final occupancy approval for the project. In
addition, the applicant shall provide a consent to dedicate or street reservation of the widened
portion of Hunter Court which would be dedicated as public street should the remainder of Hunter
Court ever become a public street.
8.That the recommendations of the Public Works/Engineering Division shall be conditions of
approval here, including but not limited to the requirements that new accessible ramps meeting
federal and state standards shall be installed on both sides of the crosswalk where Hunter Court
meets Homes Avenue (near the Senior Center); that permits be obtained prior to work in the public
rights-of-way; and that necessary stormwater permits be obtained.
9.That building permit submittals shall include:
a.The identification of all easements, including but not limited to public or private utility,
irrigation and drainage easements, fire apparatus access easements, and public pedestrian
access easements.
b.The identification of exterior building materials and paint colors for the review and
approval of the Staff Advisor. Colors and materials shall be consistent with those described
in the application and very bright or neon paint colors shall not be used.
c.Specifications for all exterior lighting fixtures. Exterior lighting shall be directed on the
property and shall not directly illuminate adjacent proprieties.
d.Revised landscape and irrigation plans shall be provided for the review and approval of the
Staff Advisor with the building permit submittals. These revised plans shall address: 1)
required size and species-specific planting details and associated irrigation plan
modifications, including the requirements for programmable automatic timer controllers
and a maintenance watering schedule with seasonal modifications; 2) final lot coverage
and required landscaped area calculations, including all building footprints, driveways,
parking, and circulation areas, and landscaped areas. Lot coverage shall be limited to no
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August 1, 2021
Page 20
more than 50 percent, and the calculations shall demonstrate that the requisite 50 percent
landscaping and seven percent parking lot landscaping are provided; 3) the mitigation
requirements of AMC 18.5.7 by detailing the mitigation for the 14 significant trees to be
removed on a one-for-one basis through replanting planting on-site, replanting off-site, or
lanting; 4) sight-obscuring screening of the
parking lot with a landscape buffer in keeping with the requirements of AMC
18.4.3.080.E.6.a.iv and 18.4.4.030.F.2.; 5) the staff recommendations that the driveway
crossing connect directly (in a straight line) to the five-foot path leading to the Central
Ashland Bikepath and that a ramp for bicycles to access this path from Hunter Court be
provided where the path turns into the campus; and 6) the recommendations of the Tree
Commission from their July 8, 2021 regular meeting that the Planting Plan be revised to
include three to four large-stature-at maturity native or native-like conifers such as Incense
Cedar or Giant Sequoia to mitigate the conifers (Trees #20-25) being removed.
e.A Fire Prevention and Control Plan addressing the General Fuel Modification Area
requirements in AMC 18.3.10.100.A.2 of the Ashland Land Use Ordinance shall be
provided prior to bringing combustible materials onto the property, and any new
landscaping proposed shall comply with these standards and shall not include plants listed
on the Prohibited Flammable Plant List per Resolution 2018-028.
f.Final storm water drainage, grading and erosion control plans for the review and approval
of the Engineering, Building and Planning Departments. The storm water plan shall
address Public Works/Engineering standards requiring that post-development peak flows
not exceed pre-development levels. Any necessary drainage improvements to address the
water shall be provided at the applicantstorm water from all new
impervious surfaces and run-off associated with peak rainfall events must be collected on
site and channeled to the city storm water collection system (i.e., curb gutter at public
street, public storm pipe or public drainage way) or through an approved alternative in
accordance with Ashland Building Division policy BD-PP-0029. On-site collection
systems shall be detailed on the building permit submittals.
g.A final utility plan for the project for the review and approval of the Engineering, Planning
and Building Divisions. The utility plan shall include the location of any necessary
connections to public facilities in and adjacent to the development, including the locations
of water lines and meter sizes, sewer mains and services, manholes and clean-outs, storm
drainage pipes and catch basins. The utility plan shall also address Water Department
requirements relative to cross connections and premises isolation. Meters, cabinets, vaults
and Fire Department Connections shall be located outside of pedestrian corridors and in
areas least visible from streets, sidewalks and pedestrian areas, while considering access
needs. Any necessary service extensions or upgrades shall be completed by the applicant
PA-T2-2021-00028
August 1, 2021
Page 21
h.A final electric design and distribution plan including load calculations and locations of all
primary and secondary services including any transformers, cabinets and all other
necessary equipment. This plan must be reviewed and approved by the Electric,
Engineering, Building and Planning Departments prior to the issuance of excavation or
building permits. Transformers, cabinets and vaults shall be located outside the pedestrian
corridor in areas least visible from streets, sidewalks and pedestrian areas, while
considering the access needs of the Electric Department. Any necessary service extensions
i.That the applicants shall provide final engineered plans for any work in the street rights-
of-way including any changes to sidewalks, driveway aprons or pedestrian crossings for
the review of the Planning and Public Works/Engineering Departments.
j.Identification of required bicycle parking, which includes a total of 70 covered bicycle
parking spaces. Inverted u-racks shall be used for the new outdoor bicycle parking, and all
bicycle parking shall be installed in accordance with the standards in 18.4.3.070.I,
inspected and approved prior to the issuance of the certificate of occupancy. The building
permit submittals shall verify that the bicycle parking spacing and coverage requirements
are met.
k.A signed copy of the agreement with the Ashland Parks & Recreation Commission for the
use of Hunter Court shall be provided with the building permit submittal and prior to any
site work on the new parking lot or driveways.
10.That prior to any site work including staging, storage of materials, demolition or tree removal, the
applicant shall mark the trees to be removed and install protection fencing for the trees to be
retained, and obtain a Tree Verification Inspection so that the Staff Advisor can verify that the
trees identified on site for removal are consistent with the approved plan, and that those trees to be
protected have tree protection fencing in place in a manner consistent with the approved plans.
11.That prior to the issuance of a building permit all necessary building permits fees and associated
charges, including permits and connections fees for any new utilities, and applicable system
development charges for water, sewer, storm water, parks, and transportation (less any credits for
existing structures) shall be paid.
12.That prior to the issuance of a certificate of occupancy or final project approval:
a.That the required automobile and bicycle parking shall be installed according to the
approved plan, inspected and approved by the Staff Advisor.
b.All hardscaping including the sidewalk corridor, on site circulations routes, parking lots
and driveways; Hunter Court improvements; landscaping; and the irrigation system shall
be installed according to the approved plans, inspected, and approved by the Staff Advisor.
c.That the screening for the trash and recycling containers shall be installed in accordance
with the Site Design and Development Standards prior to the issuance of a certificate of
occupancy. An opportunity to recycle site of equal or greater size than the solid waste
PA-T2-2021-00028
August 1, 2021
Page 22
receptacle shall be included in the trash enclosure in accordance with 18.4.4.040.
d.That all exterior lighting shall be directed on the property and shall not directly illuminate
adjacent proprieties.
e.All required utility service and equipment installations and street frontage improvements,
shall be installed under permit from the Public Works Department and in accordance with
the approved plans, inspected and approved by the Staff Advisor.
f.14 replacement trees to mitigate the trees removed shall be planted and irrigated
according to the approved plan, or alternative mitigation demonstrated.
13.As proposed by the applicant, perimeter gates shall remain unlocked during non-school hours so
as to not limit or restrict access school playgrounds and greenspaces.
14.That the recommendations of the Sandow Engineering Tech Memo dated April 27, 2021 shall be
conditions of this approval, including that:
a.White pavement markings be provided to delineate pick-up and drop-off circulation.
b.That the five parking spaces north of the new parking lot be designated spaces (staff or
authorized parking only) to keep them from being used during pick-up and drop-off times.
c.No on-street parking on the north side of Homes Avenue from Hunter court to 25 feet west
of the site driveway during drop-off and pick-up times.
d.No parking on the west side of Hunter Court from Homes Avenue to the new driveway
during drop-off and pick-up times.
e.That the turn lane proposed on Hunter Court be a minimum of 75 feet in length.
August 10, 2021
Planning Commission Approval Date
PA-T2-2021-00028
August 1, 2021
Page 23
TYPE II
PUBLIC HEARING
_________________________________
PA-T2-2021-00029
822 Oak Street
Planning Department, 51 Winburn Way, Ashland, Oregon 97520
541-488-5305 Fax: 541-552-2050 www.ashland.or.us TTY: 1-800-735-2900
PLANNING ACTION: PA-T2-2021-00029
SUBJECT PROPERTY: 822 Oak Street
APPLICANT/OWNER: Suzanne Zapf for Overlook Drive, LLC
DESCRIPTION: A request for Outline and Final Plan approval for a five-lot/four-unit Performance Standards
subdivision for the properties located at 822 Oak Street. The application also includes requests for: a Variance to allow a
private driveway to serve four units (AMC 18.4.6.040.C.1) where dedication of a public street is typically required; a Conditional
Use Permit to modify a non-conforming development where the required driveway separation is not provided for an avenue
(AMC 18.4.3.080.C.3.a), an Exception to Street Standards to not install city standard street frontage improvements along Oak
Street, and a Street Tree Removal Permit to remove three Oak trees. COMPREHENSIVE PLAN DESIGNATION: R-1-5;
ZONING: Single Family Residential; 39 1E 04CA; TAX LOT: 200 & 201.
NOTE: The Ashland Tree Commission will review this Planning Action at an electronic public hearing on Thursday, August 5, 2021 at 6:00 PM.
See page 2 of this notice for information about participating in the electronic public hearing.
ELECTRONIC ASHLAND PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING: Tuesday, August 10, 2021 at 7:00 PM
Criteria:
(Outline Plan, Final Plan, Variance, Conditional Use Permit, Exception to Street Standards, Street Tree
Removal)
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Tree Commission Meetings
Notice is hereby given that the Tree Commission will hold an electronic public hearing on the above described planning action on
the meeting date and time shown on Page 1.
Anyone wishing to submit written comments can do so by sending an e-mail to PC-public-testimony@ashland.or.us with
10:00 a.m. on Monday, August 2, 2021.
If the applicant wishes to provide a rebuttal to the testimony, they can submit the rebuttal via e-mail to PC-public-
testimony@ashland.or.us August 3,
2021. Written testimony received by these deadlines will be available for Tree Commissioners to review before the hearing and
will be included in the meeting minutes.
If you wish to virtually attend or listen to the Tree Commission meeting, send an email to PC-public-
testimony@ashland.or.us by 10:00 a.m. on Monday, August 2, 2021
. In order to virtually attend or listen to the commission
2) include your name, 3) specify the date and commission meeting you wish to virtually attend or listen to, 4) specify if
you will be participating by computer or telephone, and 5) the name you will use if participating by computer or the telephone
number you will use if participating by telephone. Please note, participants that sign up to virtually attend or listen to a commission
meeting will not be allowed to speak during the meeting.
In compliance with the American with Disabilities Act, if you need sp
541-488-6002 (TTY phone number 1-800-735-2900). Notification 72 hours prior to the meeting will enable the City to make reasonable arrangements to ensure
accessibility to the meeting. (28 CFR 35.102.-35.104 ADA Title I).
Notice is hereby given that the Ashland Planning Commission will hold an electronic public hearing on the above described
planning action on the meeting date and time shown above. You can watch the meeting on local channel 9, on Charter
Communications channels 180 & 181, or you can stream the meeting via the internet by going to rvtv.sou.edu and selecting
RVTV Prime.
The ordinance criteria applicable to this planning action are attached to this notice. Oregon law states that failure to raise an
objection concerning this application, or failure to provide sufficient specificity to afford the decision makers an opportunity to
respond to the issue, precludes your right of appeal to the Land Use Board of Appeals (LUBA) on that issue. Failure to
specify which ordinance criterion the objection is based on also precludes your right of appeal to LUBA on that criterion.
Failure of the applicant to raise constitutional or other issues relating to proposed conditions of approval with sufficient
specificity to allow this Commission to respond to the issue precludes an action for damages in circuit court.
Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, application materials are provided online and written comments will be accepted by
email. Alternative arrangements for reviewing the application or submitting comments can be made by contacting (541)
488-5305 or planning@ashland.or.us.
A copy of the application, including all documents, evidence and applicable criteria relied upon by the applicant, and a copy
of the staff report will be available on-line at www.ashland.or.us/PCpackets seven days prior to the hearing. Copies of
application materials will be provided at reasonable cost, if requested. Under extenuating circumstances, application
materials may be requested to be reviewed in-person at the Ashland Community Development & Engineering Services
Building, 51 Winburn Way, via a pre-arranged appointment by calling (541) 488-5305 or emailing planning@ashland.or.us.
Anyone wishing to submit comments can do so by sending an e-mail to PC-public-testimony@ashland.or.us with the
August 10 PC Hearing Testimony
Monday, August 9, 2021. If the applicant wishes to
provide a rebuttal to the testimony, they can submit the rebuttal via e-mail to PC-public-testimony@ashland.or.us with the
August 10 Hearing Testimony.
00 a.m. on Tuesday, August 10, 2021 Written testimony received by
these deadlines will be available for Planning Commissioners to review before the hearing and will be included in the
meeting minutes.
Oraltestimony will be taken during the electronic public hearing. If you wish to provide oral testimony during the electronic
meeting, send an email to PC-public-testimony@ashland.or.us by 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, August 10, 2021. In order to
provide testimony at the public hearing, please provide the following information: 1) make the subject line of the email
August 10 Speaker Request
, 2) include your name, 3) the agenda item on which you wish to speak on, 4) specify if you
willbe participating by computer or telephone, and 5) the name you will use if participating by computer or the telephone
number you will use if participating by telephone.
In compliance with the American with Disabilities Act, if you need special assistance
office at 541-488-6002 (TTY phone number 1-800-735-2900). Notification 72 hours prior to the meeting will enable the City to make reasonable
arrangements to ensure accessibility to the meeting. (28 CFR 35.102.-35.104 ADA Title I).
If you have questions or comments concerning this request, please feel free to contact Derek Severson at 541-552-2040 /
Derek.Severson@ashland.or.us.
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OUTLINE PLAN SUBDIVISION APPROVAL
18.3.9.040.A.3
Approval Criteria for Outline Plan. The Planning Commission shall approve the outline plan when it finds all of the following criteria have
been met.
a. The development meets all applicable ordinance requirements of the City.
b. Adequate key City facilities can be provided including water, sewer, paved access to and through the development, electricity, urban storm drainage,
police and fire protection, and adequate transportation; and that the development will not cause a City facility to operate beyond capacity.
c. The existing and natural features of the land; such as wetlands, floodplain corridors, ponds, large trees, rock outcroppings, etc., have been identified
in the plan of the development and significant features have been included in the open space, common areas, and unbuildable areas.
d. The development of the land will not prevent adjacent land from being developed for the uses shown in the Comprehensive Plan.
e. There are adequate provisions for the maintenance of open space and common areas, if required or provided, and that if developments are done in
phases that the early phases have the same or higher ratio of amenities as proposed in the entire project.
f. The proposed density meets the base and bonus density standards established under this chapter.
g. The development complies with the Street Standards.
APPROVAL CRITERIA FOR FINAL PLAN
18.3.9.040.B.5
Final Plan approval shall be granted upon finding of substantial conformance with the Outline Plan. This substantial conformance provision is intended solely
to facilitate the minor modifications from one planning step to another. Substantial conformance shall exist when comparison of the outline plan with the final
plan meets all of the following criteria.
a. The number of dwelling units vary no more than ten percent of those shown on the approved outline plan, but in no case shall the number of units exceed
those permitted in the outline plan.
b. The yard depths and distances between main buildings vary no more than ten percent of those shown on the approved outline plan, but in no case shall
these distances be reduced below the minimum established within this Ordinance.
c. The open spaces vary no more than ten percent of that provided on the outline plan.
d. The building size does not exceed the building size shown on the outline plan by more than ten percent.
e. The building elevations and exterior materials are in conformance with the purpose and intent of this ordinance and the approved outline plan.
f. That the additional standards which resulted in the awarding of bonus points in the outline plan approval have been included in the final plan with
substantial detail to ensure that the performance level committed to in the outline plan will be achieved.
g. The development complies with the Street Standards.
h. Nothing in this section shall limit reduction in the number of dwelling units or increased open space provided that, if this is done for one phase, the
number of dwelling units shall not be transferred to another phase, nor the open space reduced below that permitted in the outline plan.
VARIANCE
18.5.5.050
1. The variance is necessary because the subject code provision does not account for special or unique physical circumstances of the subject site, such as
topography, natural features, adjacent development, or similar circumstances. A legal lot determination may be sufficient evidence of a hardship for
purposes of approving a variance.
2. The variance is the minimum necessary to address the special or unique physical circumstances related to the subject site.
3. the purpose and intent of this
ordinance and the Comprehensive Plan of the City.
4. The need for the variance is not self-imposed by the applicant or property owner. For example, the variance request does not arise as result of a property
line adjustment or land division approval previously granted to the applicant.
CONDITIONAL USE PERMITS
18.5.4.050
A Conditional Use Permit shall be granted if the approval authority finds that the application meets all of the following criteria, or can be made to conform
through the imposition of conditions.
1. That the use would be in conformance with all standards within the zoning district in which the use is proposed to be located, and in
conformance with relevant Comprehensive plan policies that are not implemented by any City, State, or Federal law or program.
2. That adequate capacity of City facilities for water, sewer, electricity, urban storm drainage, paved access to and throughout the development,
and adequate transportation can and will be provided to the subject property.
3. That the conditional use will have no greater adverse material effect on the livability of the impact area when compared to the development of
the subject lot with the target use of the zone, pursuant with subsection 18.5.4.050.A.5, below. When evaluating the effect of the proposed use
on the impact area, the following factors of livability of the impact area shall be considered in relation to the target use of the zone.
a. Similarity in scale, bulk, and coverage.
b. Generation of traffic and effects on surrounding streets. Increases in pedestrian, bicycle, and mass transit use are considered beneficial regardless
of capacity of facilities.
c. Architectural compatibility with the impact area.
d. Air quality, including the generation of dust, odors, or other environmental pollutants.
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e. Generation of noise, light, and glare.
f.The development of adjacent properties as envisioned in the Comprehensive Plan.
g. Other factors found to be relevant by the approval authority for review of the proposed use.
4. A conditional use permit shall not allow a use that is prohibited or one that is not permitted pursuant to this ordinance.
5. For the purposes of reviewing conditional use permit applications for conformity with the approval criteria of this subsection, the target uses of
each zone are as follows.
a. WR and RR. Residential use complying with all ordinance requirements, developed at the density permitted by chapter 18.2.5 Standards
for Residential Zones.
b. R-1. Residential use complying with all ordinance requirements, developed at the density permitted by chapter 18.2.5 Standards for
Residential Zones.
c. R-2 and R-3. Residential use complying with all ordinance requirements, developed at the density permitted by chapter 18.2.5 Standards
for Residential Zones.
d. C-1. The general retail commercial uses listed in chapter 18.2.2 Base Zones and Allowed Uses, developed at an intensity of 0.35 floor to
area ratio, complying with all ordinance requirements; and within the Detailed Site Review overlay, at an intensity of 0.50 floor to area ratio,
complying with all ordinance requirements.
e. C-1-D. The general retail commercial uses listed in chapter 18.2.2 Base Zones and Allowed Uses, developed at an intensity of 1.00 gross
floor to area ratio, complying with all ordinance requirements.
f.E-1. The general office uses listed in chapter 18.2.2 Base Zones and Allowed Uses, developed at an intensity of 0.35 floor to area ratio,
complying with all ordinance requirements; and within the Detailed Site Review overlay, at an intensity of 0.50 floor to area ratio, complying
with all ordinance requirements.
g. M-1. The general light industrial uses listed in chapter 18.2.2 Base Zones and Allowed Uses, complying with all ordinance requirements.
h. CM-C1. The general light industrial uses listed in chapter 18.3.2 Croman Mill District, developed at an intensity of 0.50 gross floor to area
ratio, complying with all ordinance requirements.
i.CM-OE and CM-MU. The general office uses listed in chapter 18.3.2 Croman Mill District, developed at an intensity of 0.60 gross floor to
area, complying with all ordinance requirements.
k. CM-NC. The retail commercial uses listed in chapter 18.3.2 Croman Mill District, developed at an intensity of 0.60 gross floor to area ratio,
complying with all ordinance requirements.
l.HC, NM, and SOU. The permitted uses listed in chapters 18.3.3 Health Care Services, 18.3.5 North Mountain Neighborhood, and 18.3.6
Southern Oregon University District, respectively, complying with all ordinance requirements.
EXCEPTION TO STREET STANDARDS
18.4.6.020.B.1
Exception to the Street Design Standards. The approval authority may approve exceptions to the standards section in 18.4.6.040 Street Design Standards if all
of the following circumstances are found to exist.
a. There is demonstrable difficulty in meeting the specific requirements of this chapter due to a unique or unusual aspect of the site or proposed use of the
site.
b. The exception will result in equal or superior transportation facilities and connectivity considering the following factors where applicable.
i. For transit facilities and related improvements, access, wait time, and ride experience.
ii. For bicycle facilities, feeling of safety, quality of experience (i.e., comfort level of bicycling along the roadway), and frequency of conflicts with vehicle
cross traffic.
iii. For pedestrian facilities, feeling of safety, quality of experience (i.e., comfort level of walking along roadway), and ability to safety and efficiency
crossing roadway.
c. The exception is the minimum necessary to alleviate the difficulty.
d. The exception is consistent with the Purpose and Intent of the Street Standards in subsection 18.4.6.040.A.
TREE REMOVAL PERMIT
18.5.7.040.B
1.Hazard Tree. A Hazard Tree Removal Permit shall be granted if the approval authority finds that the application meets all of the following criteria, or can
be made to conform through the imposition of conditions.
a. The applicant must demonstrate that the condition or location of the tree presents a clear public safety hazard (i.e., likely to fall and injure persons or
property) or a foreseeable danger of property damage to an existing structure or facility, and such hazard or danger cannot reasonably be alleviated
by treatment, relocation, or pruning. See definition of hazard tree in part 18.6.
b. The City may require the applicant to mitigate for the removal of each hazard tree pursuant to section 18.5.7.050. Such mitigation requirements shall
be a condition of approval of the permit.
2. Tree That is Not a Hazard. A Tree Removal Permit for a tree that is not a hazard shall be granted if the approval authority finds that the application
meets all of the following criteria, or can be made to conform through the imposition of conditions.
a. The tree is proposed for removal in order to permit the application to be consistent with other applicable Land Use Ordinance requirements and
standards, including but not limited to applicable Site Development and Design Standards in part 18.4 and Physical and Environmental Constraints
in part 18.10.
b. Removal of the tree will not have a significant negative impact on erosion, soil stability, flow of surface waters, protection of adjacent trees, or
existing windbreaks.
c. Removal of the tree will not have a significant negative impact on the tree densities, sizes, canopies, and species diversity within 200 feet of the
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subject property. The City shall grant an exception to this criterion when alternatives to the tree removal have been considered and no reasonable
alternative exists to allow the property to be used as permitted in the zone.
d. Nothing in this section shall require that the residential density to be reduced below the permitted density allowed by the zone. In making this
determination, the City may consider alternative site plans or placement of structures of alternate landscaping designs that would lessen the impact
on trees, so long as the alternatives continue to comply with the other provisions of this ordinance.
e. The City shall require the applicant to mitigate for the removal of each tree granted approval pursuant to section 18.5.7.050. Such mitigation
requirements shall be a condition of approval of the permit.
PERMISSION TO PLANT OR REMOVE (STREET TREES)
13.16.030
The City encourages the planting of appropriate trees. No trees shall be planted in or removed from any public planting strip or other public property in the City
uired to replace the tree or
trees being removed with a tree or trees of comparable value. If the tree is determined to be dead or dying, then the replacement need be no larger than the
minimum described in this chapter. The replacement tree(s) shall be of a size specified in the permit and shall be no smaller than eight (8) feet in height or one
(1) inch in caliper twelve (12) inches above root crown and shall be an appropriate species selected from and planted according to the Recommended Street
Tree List. (Ord. 3192 § 100, amended, 11/17/2020)
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“Grizzly Peak View” Subdivision
ArequestforOutline&FinalPlansubdivisionapprovalunderthe
PA-T2-2021-00029–
PerformanceStandardsOptionChaptertodevelopa5-lot,4-unitsubdivisionforthepropertiesat
822OakStreet.Theapplicationalsorequests:aVariancetoallowaprivatedrivewaytoservefour
unitswhereapublicstreetdedicationwouldtypicallyberequired;aConditionalUsePermitto
modifyanon-conformingdevelopmentwheretherequireddrivewayseparationisnotprovided
foranavenue;anExceptiontoStreetStandardstonotinstallcitystandardfrontageimprovements
alongOakStreet;anaStreetTreeRemovalPermittoremovethreeOaktrees.
Proposal Details
Site Description
822 Oak Street consists of two vacant properties along the east side of Oak Street between Sleepy
Hollow Drive and East Nevada Street. The two properties have a combined area of 0.86 acres, and
are zoned R-1-5, a single family residential zoning with a 5,000 square foot minimum lot size.
SubdivisionRequest
Theapplicationproposestosubdividethetwopropertiesat822OakStreettocreatefour
buildablelots.TheR-1-5zonedpropertyhasabasedensityof3.87units,andthefourthlotis
proposedthrougha“conservationhousing”densitybonusbecausealloftheunitswillbebuiltto
EarthAdvantage®standards.Afifth‘commonarea’lotwouldbecreatedtocontaintheshared
drivewaywithfourparkingspacesandacommonopenspacewhichwouldincludestormwater
detentionandalandscapedareaforresidents’recreationalusethatwouldincludetwolarge
Cedartreesthataretobepreservedandprotectedwiththesubdivision.
Landscaping, Trees & Natural Features
TheapplicationproposestoremovethreeOaktreesalongOakStreetwhicharedescribedas
beinginastateofdecline,withthesouthernmostbeingunderminedbyananimalburrowatits
basewhichhasleadtodecayandtheothersexhibitingdeadwoodintheircanopiesandevidence
ofsheddinglargelimbs.Thesetreesaretobereplacedwithsixregionally-acclimatedtreesthat
willbeofsimilarstatureatmaturity.TwolargeCedarsalongthenorthpropertylinearetobe
protectedduringconstructionandpreservedonaproposedcommonarealot.Inaddition,staff
arerecommendingthatthebuildingenvelopesbemodifiedtoprovidegreaterprotectionofthe
steeplyslopedareasattherearofthepropertieswhichoverlooktheBearCreekfloodplain.
1
“Grizzly Peak View” Subdivision
ArequestforOutline&FinalPlansubdivisionapprovalunderthe
PA-T2-2021-00029–
PerformanceStandardsOptionChaptertodevelopa5-lot,4-unitsubdivisionforthepropertiesat
822OakStreet.Theapplicationalsorequests:aVariancetoallowaprivatedrivewaytoservefour
unitswhereapublicstreetdedicationwouldtypicallyberequired;aConditionalUsePermitto
modifyanon-conformingdevelopmentwheretherequireddrivewayseparationisnotprovided
foranavenue;anExceptiontoStreetStandardstonotinstallcitystandardfrontageimprovements
alongOakStreet;anaStreetTreeRemovalPermittoremovethreeOaktrees.
Key Issues
Variance
TheapplicationrequestsaVariancetoallowaprivatedrivewaytoservefourunitswherecity
codes(AMC18.4.6.040.C.1)requirethatapublicstreetbededicatedandinstalled.Inthis
instance,theslopesattherearofthepropertyexceed35percent,andaneast-weststreetcould
notbeinstalledthroughthisareatomeetthecity’sstreetgraderequirements.Thecombination
ofslopesandtheexistingdevelopmentpatternonadjacentpropertiesalsopreventanorth-south
streetconnection.Theapplicantrequeststonotinstallapublicstreetthatcouldnotconnectto
thebroaderstreetsystem,andthehomeowners’associationratherthanthecitywouldbe
responsibleformaintainingaprivatedriveway.
ConditionalUsePermit
TheapplicationrequestsaConditionalUsePermitbecausetheproposeddrivewayiscloserthan
generallyallowedtothenextdrivewayonamajorcollectorlikeOakStreet.Howeverthe
drivewayseparationstandardsdiscussedbytheapplicantdonotapplyinsinglefamilyresidential
zones,andassuchtherequestedConditionalUsePermitisnotneeded.Thedrivewaycomplies
withthestandardsforasinglefamilyzoneasproposed,whicharedetailedinAMC18.4.3.080.C.
ExceptiontoStreetStandards
TheapplicationrequestsanExceptiontotheStreetDesignStandardstonotinstallaparkrow
plantingstripandsidewalkalongtheproperties’OakStreetfrontage.Thecombinationoftrees,
fences,utilitypedestals,gradechangesandlowrockwallsbehindthecurbonadjacentproperties
tothenorthandsouthmakepedestriantravelchallenging.Staffhaveinsteadrecommendedthat
theapplicantdedicateright-of-wayforfutureparkrowandsidewalkandsign-infavorof
participatinginanyfutureLocalImprovementDistrict,andregradethefrontofthepropertyto
curblevelandinstallafive-footgravelpathalongthefrontagetosupporton-streetparkinguntil
broaderfrontageimprovementsareinstalled.
Staff Recommendation
Staff recommends that the application be approved with the conditions
detailed in the attached draft findings.
2
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БЋЋ hğƉ {ƷƩĻĻƷ
/ƚƓĭĻƦƷǒğƌ .ǒźƌķźƓŭ 9ƌĻǝğƷźƚƓƭ
źĭźƓźƷǤ ağƦ
DRAFT FINDINGS
BEFORE THE PLANNING COMMISSION
September 14, 2021
IN THE MATTER OF PLANNING ACTION #PA-T2-2021-00029, A REQUEST FOR )
OUTLINE PLAN APPROVAL FOR A 5-LOT, 4-UNIT PERFORMANCE STANDARDS )
OPTIONS SUBDIVISION OF THE PROPERTIES AT 822 OAK STREET. THE APPLI- )
CATION ALSO INCLUDES REQUESTS FOR: A VARIANCE TO ALLOW A PRIVATE)
DRAFT
DRIVEWAY TO SERVE FOUR UNITS WHERE DEDICATION OF A PUBLIC STREET)
FINDINGS,
IS TYPICALLY REQUIRED; A CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT TO MODIFY A NON- )
CONCLUSIONS &
CONFORMING DEVELOPMENT WHERE THE REQUIRED DRIVEWAY SEPARA- )
ORDERS
TION IS NOT PROVIDED FOR AN AVENUE; AN EXCEPTION TO STREET STAN- )
DARDS TO NOT INSTALL CITY STANDARD STREET FRONTAGE IMPROVE- )
MENTS ALONG OAK STREET; AND A STREET TREE REMOVAL PERMIT TO )
REMOVE THREE OAK TREES. )
)
PPLICANT/OWNER:
ASuzanne Zapf for Overlook Drive, LLC )
Rogue Planning & Development Services, LLC )
)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
RECITALS:
1)Tax lots #200 and #201 of Map 39 1E 04 CA are vacant parcels at 822 Oak Street, on the east side of
Oak Street between East Nevada Street and Sleepy Hollow Drive, and are zoned R-1-5 (Single Family
Residential).
2)The applicant is requesting Outline and Final Plan approval for a five-lot/four-unit Performance
Standards subdivision for the two properties located at 822 Oak Street. The application also includes
requests for: a Variance to allow a private driveway to serve four units where dedication of a public street
AMC 18.4.6.040.C.1
is typically required under ; a Conditional Use Permit to modify a non-conforming
MC
development where the required driveway separation is not provided for an avenue as required in A
18.4.3.080.C.3.a;
an Exception to Street Standards to not install city standard street frontage
improvements along Oak Street, and a Street Tree Removal Permit to remove three Oak trees. The
proposal is outlined in plans on file at the Department of Community Development.
AMC 18.3.9.040.A.3
3) The criteria for Outline Plan approval are described in as follows:
a. The development meets all applicable ordinance requirements of the City.
b. Adequate key City facilities can be provided including water, sewer, paved access to and
through the development, electricity, urban storm drainage, police and fire protection, and
adequate transportation; and that the development will not cause a City facility to operate
beyond capacity.
PA-T2-2021-00029
September 14, 2021
Page 1
c. The existing and natural features of the land; such as wetlands, floodplain corridors,
ponds, large trees, rock outcroppings, etc., have been identified in the plan of the
development and significant features have been included in the open space, common areas,
and unbuildable areas.
d. The development of the land will not prevent adjacent land from being developed for the
uses shown in the Comprehensive Plan.
e. There are adequate provisions for the maintenance of open space and common areas, if
required or provided, and that if developments are done in phases that the early phases
have the same or higher ratio of amenities as proposed in the entire project.
f. The proposed density meets the base and bonus density standards established under this
chapter.
g. The development complies with the Street Standards.
AMC 18.3.9.040.B.5
4) The criteria for Final Plan approval are described in as follows:
a. The number of dwelling units vary no more than ten percent of those shown on the approved
outline plan, but in no case shall the number of units exceed those permitted in the outline
plan.
b. The yard depths and distances between main buildings vary no more than ten percent of
those shown on the approved outline plan, but in no case shall these distances be reduced
below the minimum established within this ordinance.
c. The common open spaces vary no more than ten percent of that provided on the outline
plan.
d. The building size does not exceed the building size shown on the outline plan by more than
ten percent.
e. The building elevations and exterior materials are in conformance with the purpose and
intent of this ordinance and the approved outline plan.
f. That the additional standards which resulted in the awarding of bonus points in the outline
plan approval have been included in the final plan with substantial detail to ensure that
the performance level committed to in the outline plan will be achieved.
g. The development complies with the street standards.
h. Nothing in this section shall limit reduction in the number of dwelling units or increased
open space; provided, that if this is done for one phase, the number of dwelling units shall
not be transferred to another phase, nor the common open space reduced below that
permitted in the outline plan.
PA-T2-2021-00029
September 14, 2021
Page 2
AMC 18.5.5.050.A
5) The criteria for a Variance are described in as follows:
1. The variance is necessary because the subject code provision does not account for special
or unique physical circumstances of the subject site, such as topography, natural features,
adjacent development, or similar circumstances. A legal lot determination may be
sufficient evidence of a hardship for purposes of approving a variance.
2. The variance is the minimum necessary to address the special or unique physical
circumstances related to the subject site.
3.
the adjacent uses and will further the purpose and intent of this ordinance and the
Comprehensive Plan of the City.
4. The need for the variance is not self-imposed by the applicant or property owner. For
example, the variance request does not arise as result of a property line adjustment or land
division approval previously granted to the applicant.
AMC 18.5.4.050.A
6) The criteria for Conditional Use Permit approval are described in as follows:
1. That the use would be in conformance with all standards within the zoning district in
which the use is proposed to be located, and in conformance with relevant
Comprehensive plan policies that are not implemented by any City, State, or Federal law
or program.
2. That adequate capacity of City facilities for water, sewer, electricity, urban storm
drainage, paved access to and throughout the development, and adequate transportation
can and will be provided to the subject property.
3. That the conditional use will have no greater adverse material effect on the livability of
the impact area when compared to the development of the subject lot with the target use
of the zone, pursuant with subsection 18.5.4.050.A.5, below. When evaluating the effect
of the proposed use on the impact area, the following factors of livability of the impact
area shall be considered in relation to the target use of the zone.
a. Similarity in scale, bulk, and coverage.
b. Generation of traffic and effects on surrounding streets. Increases in pedestrian,
bicycle, and mass transit use are considered beneficial regardless of capacity of
facilities.
c. Architectural compatibility with the impact area.
d. Air quality, including the generation of dust, odors, or other environmental
pollutants.
PA-T2-2021-00029
September 14, 2021
Page 3
e. Generation of noise, light, and glare.
f. The development of adjacent properties as envisioned in the Comprehensive Plan.
g. Other factors found to be relevant by the approval authority for review of the
proposed use.
4. A conditional use permit shall not allow a use that is prohibited or one that is not
permitted pursuant to this ordinance.
5. For the purposes of reviewing conditional use permit applications for conformity with the
approval criteria of this subsection, the target uses of each zone are as follows.
a. WR and RR. Residential use complying with all ordinance requirements, developed
at the density permitted by chapter 18.2.5 Standards for Residential Zones.
R-1.
b. Residential use complying with all ordinance requirements, developed at the
density permitted by chapter 18.2.5 Standards for Residential Zones.
c. R-2 and R-3. Residential use complying with all ordinance requirements, developed
at the density permitted by chapter 18.2.5 Standards for Residential Zones.
d. C-1. The general retail commercial uses listed in chapter 18.2.2 Base Zones and
Allowed Uses, developed at an intensity of 0.35 floor to area ratio, complying with
all ordinance requirements; and within the Detailed Site Review overlay, at an
intensity of 0.50 floor to area ratio, complying with all ordinance requirements.
e. C-1-D. The general retail commercial uses listed in chapter 18.2.2 Base Zones and
Allowed Uses, developed at an intensity of 1.00 gross floor to area ratio, complying
with all ordinance requirements.
f. E-1. The general office uses listed in chapter 18.2.2 Base Zones and Allowed Uses,
developed at an intensity of 0.35 floor to area ratio, complying with all ordinance
requirements; and within the Detailed Site Review overlay, at an intensity of 0.50
floor to area ratio, complying with all ordinance requirements.
g. M-1. The general light industrial uses listed in chapter 18.2.2 Base Zones and
Allowed Uses, complying with all ordinance requirements.
h. CM-C1. The general light industrial uses listed in chapter 18.3.2 Croman Mill
District, developed at an intensity of 0.50 gross floor to area ratio, complying with
all ordinance requirements.
PA-T2-2021-00029
September 14, 2021
Page 4
i. CM-OE and CM-MU. The general office uses listed in chapter 18.3.2 Croman Mill
District, developed at an intensity of 0.60 gross floor to area, complying with all
ordinance requirements.
k. CM-NC. The retail commercial uses listed in chapter 18.3.2 Croman Mill District,
developed at an intensity of 0.60 gross floor to area ratio, complying with all
ordinance requirements.
l. HC, NM, and SOU. The permitted uses listed in chapters 18.3.3 Health Care
Services, 18.3.5 North Mountain Neighborhood, and 18.3.6 Southern Oregon
University District, respectively, complying with all ordinance requirements.
AMC 18.4.6.020.b
7) The criteria for an Exception to the Street Standards are described in as
follows:
1. Exception to the Street Design Standards. The approval authority may approve exceptions
to the standards section in 18.4.6.040 Street Design Standards if all of the following
circumstances are found to exist.
a. There is demonstrable difficulty in meeting the specific requirements of this chapter
due to a unique or unusual aspect of the site or proposed use of the site.
b. The exception will result in equal or superior transportation facilities and
connectivity considering the following factors where applicable.
i. For transit facilities and related improvements, access, wait time, and ride
experience.
ii. For bicycle facilities, feeling of safety, quality of experience (i.e., comfort
level of bicycling along the roadway), and frequency of conflicts with
vehicle cross traffic.
iii. For pedestrian facilities, feeling of safety, quality of experience (i.e.,
comfort level of walking along roadway), and ability to safety and efficiency
crossing roadway.
c. The exception is the minimum necessary to alleviate the difficulty.
d. The exception is consistent with the Purpose and Intent of the Street Standards in
subsection 18.4.6.040.A.
AMC 13.16.030
8) The criteria for a Street Tree Removal Permit are described in as follows:
The City encourages the planting of appropriate trees. No trees shall be planted in or removed
from any public planting strip or other public property in the City until a permit has been issued
PA-T2-2021-00029
September 14, 2021
Page 5
t may be
required to replace the tree or trees being removed with a tree or trees of comparable value. If the
tree is determined to be dead or dying, then the replacement need be no larger than the minimum
described in this chapter. The replacement tree(s) shall be of a size specified in the permit and
shall be no smaller than eight (8) feet in height or one (1) inch in caliper twelve (12) inches above
root crown and shall be an appropriate species selected from and planted according to the
Recommended Street Tree List. (Ord. 3192 § 100, amended, 11/17/2020)
9) Emergency Powers
to declare a state of emergency to the City Manager, subject to subsequent ratification by the City Council.
Emergency resulting from the Coronavirus contagion, and the Council has subsequently approved
extension of this Declaration of Emergency through at least August 17, 2021. Among other things, this
Declaration of Emergency provides for public meetings to be conducted by electronic means for the
various City commissions and boards, including the Planning Commission.
10) The Planning Commission, following proper public notice, held an electronic public hearing on
August 10, 2021 at which time testimony was received and exhibits were presented. Subsequent to the closing
\[approved the application subject to conditions pertaining to
of the hearing, the Planning Commission
the appropriate development of the site/continued the application/denied the application\].
Now, therefore, the Planning Commission of the City of Ashland finds, concludes and recommends as
follows:
SECTION 1. EXHIBITS
For the purposes of reference to these Findings, the attached index of exhibits, data, and testimony
will be used.
Staff Exhibits lettered with an "S"
Proponent's Exhibits, lettered with a "P"
Opponent's Exhibits, lettered with an "O"
Hearing Minutes, Notices, Miscellaneous Exhibits lettered with an "M"
SECTION 2. FINDINGS & CONCLUSIONS
2.1 The Planning Commission finds that it has received all information necessary to make a decision
based on the staff report, public hearing testimony and the exhibits received.
2.2 The Planning Commission finds that the proposal meets all applicable criteria for Outline Plan
approval described in AMC 18.3.9.040.A.3, for Final Plan approval described in AMC 18.3.9.040.B.5, for a
PA-T2-2021-00029
September 14, 2021
Page 6
Variance described in AMC 18.5.5.050, for an Exception to Street Standards as described in AMC
18.4.6.020.b; and for a Street Tree Removal Permit as described in AMC 13.16.030.
2.3 The Planning Commission finds that the proposal satisfies all applicable criteria for Outline Plan
approval.
The first approval criterion for Outline Plan approval is that,
ordinance requirements of the CityCommission finds that the proposal meets all applicable
ordinance requirements or has requested Variances or Exceptions, and that this criterion has been satisfied.
The application materials explain that the proposal utilizes the Performance Standards Option Chapter
18.3.9, and that the development demonstrates compliance with the standards from AMC 18.3.9.050
18.3.9.080, and the provisions of the chapter as well as other applicable provisions including AMC 18.4.3
Parking, Access, & Circulation; AMC 18.4.6 Public Facilities; and AMC 18.4.8 Solar Access. The
application materials further emphasize that as a Performance Standards Options proposal, the application
is not required to meet the minimum lot size, lot width, lot depth or setback standards of part 18.2.
Performance Standards
The subject property here is outside of the PSO overlay. As provided in AMC 18.3.9.030.D, if a parcel is not in
only be approved if one or more of the following conditions exist: 1) The parcel is larger than two acres and is
greater than 200 feet in average width; 2) That development under this chapter is necessary to protect the
environment and the neighborhood from degradation which would occur from development to the maximum
density allowed under subdivision standards, or would be equal in its aesthetic and environmental impact; 3)
The property is zoned R-2, R-3 or CM; or 4) The property is developed as a cottage housing development
consistent with the standards in section 18.2.3.090. The subject property is less than two acres in area, is zoned
R-1 and is not proposed for a cottage housing development. The applicant proposes to utilize the Performance
Standards Option as necessary to protect the environment and neighborhood from the degradation which
would occur from development to the maximum density allowed under subdivision standards, asserting that
the request is eligible to use the Performance Standards Option due to the preservation of two large stature
Cedar Trees which are to be preserved and protected on the common area lot, and because the subdivision
would be equal in its aesthetic and environmental impact.
two large Cedars on the common area lot, the steeply-sloped areas at the east edge of the property overlooking
the Bear Creek floodplain corridor must also be better protected as a significant natural feature of the site. To
that end, staff have recommended a condition below that revised building envelopes be identified for each lot
which will protect the slopes greater than 25 percent from not only building placement but also from any
construction disturbance prior to the signature of a final survey plat.
For development of fewer than ten lots Outline Plan subdivision approval may be requested concurrently with
Final Plan approval. The current application proposes a total of five lots and four residential units, and is
requesting concurrent Outline and Final Plan approvals.
PA-T2-2021-00029
September 14, 2021
Page 7
Parking Requirements
hŅŅ {ƷƩĻĻƷ tğƩƉźƓŭ
Development of the individual, detached single family dwelling units requires two spaces each, and building permit
submittals would need to demonstrate that required off-street parking would be provided with development of
the individual lots.
hƓΏ{ƷƩĻĻƷ tğƩƉźƓŭ źƓ ƷŷĻ tĻƩŅƚƩƒğƓĭĻ {ƷğƓķğƩķƭ
The Performance Standards Options Parking Standards in AMC 18.3.9.060 require that at least one on-
street parking space shall be provided per dwelling unit for all developments in an R-1 zone in addition to off-
street parking required. These on-street parking spaces are to be provided immediately adjacent to the public
right-of-way on publicly or association-owned land and be directly accessible from public right-of-way streets,
and each space is to be located within 200 feet of the dwelling that it is intended to serve.
four spaces proposed on the south side of the driveway are each within 200 feet of the unit they serve, are
accessible from Oak Street and can be found to satisfy this requirement.
Cƌğŭ 5ƩźǝĻ tğƩƉźƓŭ
A driveway serving a single lot and greater than 50 feet in length, or a driveway providing access to flag lots is
considered a flag drive and subject to the development requirements in AMC 18.5.3.060 including that each lot
have three parking spaces situated so as to avoid the need for backing out; that the flag drive address width,
fire access, work area and turn-around requirements; and that there are provisions for screening, drainage, and
maintenance. Given that the drive here serves four lots and they are not flag lots, staff do not believe that the
Commission must strictly adhere to the flag drive standards. Ing spaces are not
necessary for each lot given that an on-street parking space is provided for each lot on the common area,
however staff do believe that the Commission should consider requiring that parking be configured to eliminate
the need for backing out, and that fire access, drainage and maintenance requirements be attached to the
approval.
Solar Access Performance Standard
AMC 18.4.8.040 requires that land divisions creating new lots be designed to permit the location of a 21-foot
high structure -south dimension. Where lots
have a north-facing negative slope of less than 15 percent, this calculation is based on Standard A, meaning the
shadow cast cannot exceed that of a six-foot fence on the north property line. Lots having a north facing
negative slope equal to or greater than 15 percent, this calculation is based on Standard B, meaning the shadow
cast cannot exceed that of a 16-foot fence on the north property line. Where an applicant chooses not to design
a lot with an adequate north-
allowed height requirements to protect the applicable solar access standard. The applicant here has identified
north building envelope limits for Lots 2-4 showing where a 12-foot shadow producing point could be placed
to comply with Standard A, but asserts that because Lot 1 is not changing from its current configuration (i.e.
while included in the subdivision, it will retain the same dimensions as it now has as a pre-existing lot of record)
it is not subject to the Solar Access Performance Standard requirement and is simply subject to Solar Access
lots included in the subdivision plat) it is subject to the Solar Access Performance Standard requirement and
needs to either comply with the lot design requirement or identify a solar envelope complying with Standard
A. A condition to this effect has been recommended below.
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Adequate key City facilities can be
provided including water, sewer, paved access to and through the development, electricity, urban storm
drainage, police and fire protection, and adequate transportation; and that the development will not cause
a City fac
The Public Works Department has noted that the following city facilities are available to serve the subject
property from the adjacent Oak Street right-of-way: a six-inch water main, an eight-inch sanitary sewer
main, and a 24-inch storm sewer main. The application materials assert that the proposal provides for
adequate key City facilities, further explaining that water lines will be extended in the same general area
as the existing water meter boxes, which are directly behind the curb; that the site grading plan anticipates
individual sanitary sewer ejector pumps to the sanitary sewer main in Oak Street; and stormwater is
proposed to be captured and detained onsite in an engineered swale which will overflow into the city
system. The electric distribution plan provides a new vault on the north side of the driveway within the
new common area lot. The applicant notes that necessary easements will be provided for all utilities, and
that in discussions with Public Works and the individual utility departments no capacity issues or concerns
have been identified.
System Plan (TSP) and is improved with paving, curb and g
frontage. Continuous sidewalks were completed along the west side of Oak Street with a Local
Improvement District (LID) some years ago, but there are no sidewalks in place along the east side for the
subject property or the majority of the corridor between Sleepy Hollow Drive and East Nevada Street.
The application includes a request for a Variance not to install frontage improvements along Oak Street
which is discussed in section 2.5 below.
The Planning Commission finds that adequate key City facilities are available within the adjacent rights-of-way and
will be extended by the applicant to serve the proposed development. Conditions have been included below to
require that final electric service, utility and civil plans be provided for the review and approval of the Staff Advisor
and city departments, and that civil infrastructure be installed by the applicants according to the approved plans,
inspected and approved prior to the signature of the final survey plat.
The existing and natural features of the land;
such as wetlands, floodplain corridors, ponds, large trees, rock outcroppings, etc., have been identified in
the plan of the development and significant features have been included in the open space, common areas,
Natural Features
The application materials explain that there are two large stature Cedar trees on the property that will be
preserved and protected on the common area lot. Three large Oak street trees along the Oak Street right-of-
way were also initially planned for preservation, however after consulting with a certified arborist it was
determined that these three trees are nearing the end of their life cycle and/or have damage to the degree
that their removal is necessary. In their place, the applicant proposes to plant six Oak trees of at least two-
inch caliper along the street and down the driveway as mitigation trees.
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-sloped areas
at the east edge of the property overlooking the Bear Creek floodplain corridor are significant natural features
which merit protection. To that end, staff have recommended a condition below that revised building
envelopes be identified for each lot which will protect the slopes greater than 25 percent from not only building
placement but also from any construction disturbance prior to the signature of a final survey plat.
The fourth criterion for approval of an Outline Plan is that,
The application materials provided explain that the adjacent properties are zoned residential, that the
properties to the north and south have limited development potential due to the lot configurations and
location of existing structures. The applicant goes on to explain that there is a larger parcel on the north
side of the proposed Lot #4 that may have development potential, but the steep topography along the
street connectivity. The east edge of the subject property
slopes steeply towards the east, with slopes in excess of 35 percent in some areas, and there are substantial
areas of the adjacent property where the slopes exceed 35 percent, which means they have no buildable
area. The applicant concludes that the proposal itself will not prevent adjacent properties from developing
as envisioned in the Comprehensive Plan.
Recognizing that existing development patterns and physical constraints may limit development of the
adjacent properties to a degree, the Planning Commission finds that the proposed subdivision and its
associated access and utility installation will not prevent the adjacent lands from being developed as
envisioned in the Comprehensive Plan,
The fifth approval criterion is that, quate provisions for the maintenance of open space
and common areas, if required or provided, and that if developments are done in phases that the early
The application
iation (HOA) and that Covenants,
-Laws will be provided for review by the Staff Advisor along
with a Stormwater Quality Management Plan along with the final civil drawings for review prior to
signature of the subdivision survey plat. The application further suggests that the four units will be platted
together rather than in phases. lude
provisions for the long-term operation and maintenance of open space and common areas including the
trees preserved and protected with the subdivision, the driveway, utilities and drainage system. With the
inclusion of these conditions, the Planning Commission finds that there are adequate provisions for the
maintenance of the open space and common areas, and that this criterion has been satisfied.
The proposed density meets the base and bonus density standards established
under this chapterThe base density for R-1-5 development under the Performance Standards Option
Chapter is 4½ dwelling units per acre. The parent parcel here is 37,500 square feet or 0.86 acres, and the
0.86 acres x 4.5 dwelling units/acre = 3.87 dwelling units
base density is 3.87 dwelling units (). The
proposed density is four dwelling units, which equates to roughly 3.3 percent over the base density. The
applicant proposes to utilize the allowed 15 percent density bonus for Conservation Housing by
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constructing 100 percent of the units to Earth Advantage® standards as provided in Resolution #2006-06.
The Planning Commission finds that with the construction of 100 percent of units to Earth Advantage®
standards, the proposed density meets the base and density bonus standards of the Performance Standards
Option Chapter. A condition has been included below to require that the building permit submittals
demonstrate that the homes have been designed to comply with the applicable Earth Advantage® standard
and that evidence of Earth Advantage® certification be provided prior to the issuance of a certificate of
occupancy for each home.
The seventh Outline Plan approval criterion is that,
No public street installation is proposed in conjunction with the current request. The
application includes a request for a Variance not to dedicate and install a public street to serve four units.
The Variance is discussed below in section 2.5. The application also includes a request for an Exception
to the Street Standards to not install a parkrow planting strip and sidewalk along the Oak Street frontage.
The Exception is discussed below in section 2.7.
TThe proposed development meets the common open space standards
established under section 18.4.4.070. Common open space requirements may be satisfied by public open
space in accordance with section 18.4.4.070 if approved by the City of AshlandIn AMC 18.3.9.050.A.3,
the Performance Standards Option Chapter requires that at least five percent of the total lot area be
provided in common open space for developments with a base density of ten units or greater. While the
properties here have a base density of only 3.87 units, the applicant nonetheless has proposed to provide
2,800 square feet of open space on the proposed common area lot. The application materials emphasize
that this area will represent a significant amenity to the projectresidents who will use and enjoy the
common open space on a day-to-day basis. In addition, the proposed open space supports the preservation
of the two large Cedar trees and will include landscaping and a bench to improve the functionality of the
space.
2.4 The Planning Commission finds that the approval criteria for Final Plan are intended to insure
substantial conformance between Outline Plan approval and Final Plan approval when the two are
requested as separate procedural steps. The Planning Commission finds that where the two are allowed
to be filed concurrently, as is the case here, there is no procedural separation between the two and the
concurrent Final Plan proposal is identical to the Outline Plan in terms of number of dwelling units, yard
depths, distances between buildings, common open spaces, building sizes, building elevations and exterior
materials, standards resulting in density bonuses, and street standards.
2.5 The Planning Commission finds that the proposal satisfies all applicable criteria for the approval
of a Variance to allow a private driveway to serve four units. All
streets serving four units or greater, and which are in an R-1, RR and WR zone, must be dedicated to the
public and shall be developed to the Street Standards of this section. The current proposal seeks to create
lots to develop four units, but is requesting no to dedicate and install a public street.
The variance is necessary because the subject code
provision does not account for special or unique physical circumstances of the subject site, such as
topography, natural features, adjacent development, or similar circumstances. A legal lot determination
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may be sufficient evidence of a hardship for purposes of approving a variance.Here the application
materials assert that the requested Variance is necessary due to special or unique physical circumstances
including the slope of the subject property along the east property line which prevents the extension of
any public street system, and the development pattern on adjacent properties to the north and south also
prevent the extension of an interconnected street system. In addition, the application explains that due to
the narrow frontage the property along Oak Street - dedication of public street right-of-way would require
a 25-foot wide cross-section for a Shared Street or a 47-foot wide cross-section for a Residential
Neighborhood Street - the creation of a new street intersection would have substantial impacts on the large
Oak trees on the adjacent properties to the south and north.
The applicant suggests that the code provision to provide a public street when serving more than three
units is overly restrictive and, in some instances, burdens the community with small, dead-end public
streets serving only a single residential subdivision. The applicant emphasizes that the slope of the subject
properties and those immediately to the east are simple too steep to extend a gridded neighborhood street
system, and that the development pattern of the properties to the north and south of the subject property
are developed in a manner that prevents extension of a public street. The applicant asserts that a private
driveway will allow for a narrower disturbance that is more compatible with the character of the immediate
neighborhood, and would also place all of the burden for future maintenance on the users of the private
driveway rather than on the city.
The second approval criterioThe variance is the minimum necessary to address the special or
unique physical circumstances related to the subject site.
The applicant explains that the requested variance to allow a private driveway to serve four lots instead of
three is the minimum necessary, and emphasizes that the private driveway would nonetheless be dedicated
as fire apparatus access and would reduce the impacts that the development of the site would otherwise
have with the installation of a public street and the resultant wide curb radii, reduction in on-street parking
along Oak Street, and changes to neighboring properties setbacks. with a public street and the resulting
curb radii and restricted parking along Oak Street, impacts to required yard setbacks for neighboring
properties.
T
the development of the adjacent uses and will further the purpose and intent of this ordinance and the
Comprehensive Plan of the City.
The application materials suggest that the benefits of the proposal include removal of any public
responsibility for a small, dead end street that provides no vehicular access to future properties within the
vicinity due to topography and existing development patterns. The
created for the subdivision will own the private driveway and the utilities, and have responsibility for
maintenance and repairs. In addition, the application materials indicate that the driveway would have a
narrower apron than a street intersection and would thus have a lesser impact on the Oak Street streetscape
than a public street.
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The need for the variance is not self-imposed by the
applicant or property owner. For example, the variance request does not arise as result of a property line
adjustment or land division approval previously granted to the applicant. The application materials
explain that the need for the Variance is based on the narrow lot width along Oak Street, the steep slopes
which prevent connectivity to the east, and the development pattern on the properties to the north and
south, all of which pose difficulties for street installation. The application materials emphasize that all of
.
Staff Analysis - Connectivity
The easternmost edge of the property has slopes in excess of 35 percent, and in rough calculations by staff, the
grade of an east-west street extension would be in the 29-30 percent range. In addressing street grade, AMC
18.4.6.040.C5 provides that street grades shall not exceed a maximum grade of 15 percent, and explicitly
precludes variances to this requirement for public streets. The topography here is simply too steep for an east-
nce Standards is to preserve and protect
significant natural features, requiring a street extension which would disturb these slopes in order to direct
vehicles to the Bear Creek floodplain corridor, which is now under Parks Department ownership, seems
counterintuitive. Similarly, the placement of existing buildings on properties immediately to the north and
south combine with the topography at the rear (east) of the property to prevent easy north-south street
connectivity. The Street Dedication Map (Figure 10-1) of the Transportation System Plan does not identify any
planned streets on the subject properties or in the immediate vicinity.
topography precludes installation of a street meeting the street grade requirements, and serving four lots
rather than three via a private drive seems the minimum variance possible to address the difficulty while
seeking more efficient land use, with the benefit that there would not be public responsibility for the
maintenance of what would effectively be an overbuilt driveway without any associated public benefit from
connectivity, and the Bear Creek floodplain corridor and the slopes that overlook it would be preserved and
protected.
For staff, the remaining question relative to connectivity is whether to require that the applicant provide a
public pedestrian access easement through the property to offset the lost vehicular connectivity. As noted
above, the Parks Department has acquired property downslope along the Bear Creek floodplain corridor which
includes public pedestrian trails. There is one property between the subject properties here and the Parks
property below, but the slopes of that property like the rear of the subject properties here have severe
constraints and are
great to require a pedestrian connection be provided.
2.6 The Planning Commission finds that while the application includes a request for a Conditional Use
Permit to modify an existing non-conforming development where the existing driveway separation does
not meet the standard for a collector street type detailed in AMC 18.4.3.080.C.3 and the proposal would
move the driveways approximately six feet closer together, because the subject property is zoned R-1-5 it
is not subject to the 75-foot driveway separation in AMC 18.4.3.080.C.3.b and C.3.c, but is instead
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required only to provide the minimum 24-foot separation detailed in AMC 18.4.3.080.C.3.a. As such, the
Planning Commission concludes that a Conditional Use Permit is not required of the application as
currently proposed.
Staff Analysis Driveway Separation
The application includes a request for a Conditional Use Permit to modify a non-conforming development
where the existing driveway separation does not meet the standards for an Avenue street type detailed in AMC
18.4.3.080.C.3, and the proposal is noted as increasing the non-conformity. As explained in the application
materials, the closest driveway to the north is approximately 39 feet from the existing driveway on the subject
property, while the driveway to the south is approximately 60 feet from the existing driveway. The application
materials explain that Oak Street is considered to be an Avenue or Major Collector street type in the
Transportation System Plan (TSP) and these existing driveway separations do not meet the 75-foot driveway
separation required by code for this street type. The application further explains that the proposed driveway
will increase this non-conformity by decreasing the separation from 60 feet to 54 feet for the driveway to the
south.
.3.080.C.3
generally seek a separation of 75 feet between driveways on a collector street, as detailed in section
Partitions and subdivisions of property located
in an R-2, R-3, C-1, E-1, CM, or M-Street and driveway
access points in an R-2, R-3, C-1, E-1, CM, or M-1 zone shall be limited
is zoned R-1-5 and is therefore not subject to the limitations listed in C.3.b or C.3.c, but rather to AMC
In no case shall driveways be closer than 24 feet as measured from the
bottom of the existing or proposed apron wings of the driveway approach.Within the R-1-5 zoning district,
the minimum lot width is 50 feet, and being subject to a driveway separation substantially greater than the lot
width would pose complications for single family development in a single family zoning district. An R-1-5
property along a collector street must only provide a 24-foot separation between driveways while the applicant
here is providing substantially more and serving four properties with a single driveway - and as such, a
Conditional Use Permit is not required.
The first criterion That the use would be in conformance with all
standards within the zoning district in which the use is proposed to be located, and in conformance with
relevant Comprehensive plan policies that are not implemented by any City, State, or Federal law or
program.The application materials explain that the use of the property would be a single-family
residential subdivision which is an allowed use in the R-1-5 zone, and that the Conditional Use Permit is
requested to allow a non-conforming driveway separation on Oak Street (less than 75-feet from driveway
to the north) to be expanded to allow the driveway serving the subject property to provide adequate
driveway apron width to access the improved private driveway. The existing driveway separation is
approximately 60-feet. The proposal reduced the separation by six feet to 54-feet of separation. Thus,
increasing the non-conformity by ten percent.
That adequate capacity of City facilities for water, sewer, electricity,
urban storm drainage, paved access to and throughout the development, and adequate transportation can
and will be provided to the subject property.Adequate capacity of City facilities for water, sewer,
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electricity, urban storm drainage and paved access to and through the development is discussed in section
2.3 above. The application materials assert that the driveway apron expansion by six feet and the
commensurate reduction in the separation between the driveways does not have an adverse impact on the
transportation facilities as on-street parking will be maintained.
The third approval criterion is, That the conditional use will have no greater adverse material effect on
the livability of the impact area when compared to the development of the subject lot with the target use
of the zone, pursuant with subsection 18.5.4.050.A.5, below. When evaluating the effect of the proposed
use on the impact area, the following factors of livability of the impact area shall be considered in relation
to the target use of the zone: a) Similarity in scale, bulk, and coverage; b) Generation of traffic and effects
on surrounding streets. Increases in pedestrian, bicycle, and mass transit use are considered beneficial
regardless of capacity of facilities; c) Architectural compatibility with the impact area; d) Air quality,
including the generation of dust, odors, or other environmental pollutants; e) Generation of noise, light,
and glare; f) The development of adjacent properties as envisioned in the Comprehensive Plan; and g)
Other factors found to be relevant by the approval authority for review of the proposed use.The
application materials provided explain that the scale, bulk and coverage of the proposed development is
not associated with the request to reduce the separation between the driveways, and that this driveway
separation does not have an effect on the livability of the zone. The application materials further assert
that the generation of traffic and effects on the surrounding streets is improved through the development
of a paved driveway accessed from a standard driveway apron, and that the driveway apron width and
shifting towards the north is necessary regardless of the type of development of the property. The
application materials go on to note that the reduced separation between the driveways does not have an
impact on air quality, generation of dust, odors, or other environmental pollutants, nor upon noise, light
and glare.
A conditional use permit shall not allow a use that is prohibited
or one that is not permitted pursuant to this ordinance.In this instance, the proposed use is a single
family residential subdivision which is a permitted use within the single family residential zones.
For the purposes of reviewing conditional use permit applications
for conformity with the approval criteria of this subsection, the target uses of each zone are as follows:
R-1.
. b) Residential use complying with all ordinance requirements, developed at the density
permitted by chapter 18.2.5 Standards for Residential Zones.In this instance, the subject property is
zoned R-1-5 Single Family Residential, and the maximum allowed density is one dwelling unit per 5,000
square foot lot.
2.7 The Planning Commission finds that the proposal satisfies all applicable criteria for the approval
of an Exception to the Street Design Standards to not install frontage improvements along Oak Street.
Oak Street is classified as an avenue or major collector street in the Transportation System Plan (TSP),
and city standard frontage improvements detailed in AMC Table 18.4.6.040.F include a seven- to eight-
foot irrigated park-row planting strip and a six-foot sidewalk.
There is
demonstrable difficulty in meeting the specific requirements of this chapter due to a unique or unusual
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aspect of the site or proposed use of the site.
the granting of exceptions when physical conditions exist that preclude development of a public street, or
components of the street. Such conditions may include, mature trees, and limited right-of-way. Both of
these conditions are present on the frontage. The property has a 50-foot wide frontage on Oak Street.
Along the frontage of the property and the adjacent properties to the north and south, there is
approximately eight-and-a-half feet of right-of-way, which is not adequate to install city-standard frontage
improvements. In addition, then narrow width of the property frontage following the installation of the
driveway will leave only approximately 28-feet of frontage for sidewalk installation. There are not
sidewalk connections immediately to the north or south, and the applicant suggests that the request to not
install frontage improvements would avoid a sidewalk and parkrow system that goes nowhere. The
application materials further assert that there are large stature Oak trees on the adjacent properties to the
north and south, and city standard sidewalk installation would impact these trees as well as the utilities in
place within the existing right-of-way. The application emphasizes that the only way to preserve the
neighbors trees is to use the narrowest driveway allowed and not install a public street or frontage
improvements with sweeping curb lines.
The exception will result in equal or superior transportation
facilities and connectivity considering the following factors where applicable. The application materials
explain that the proposed frontage improvements will include regrading of the berm behind the curb line,
installation of a driveway apron and the planting of two large stature Oak street trees to replace the street
trees proposed for removal, and suggests that these frontage improvements are similar to the existing
improvements on the east side of Oak Street, where sidewalks are not currently present.
The exception is the minimum necessary to alleviate the difficulty.
The application materials explain that the proposed exception is to not provide either sidewalk or parkrow
improvements in the 28-feet north of the proposed driveway curb cut. The application further notes that
there is inadequate right-of-way to achieve park row and sidewalk improvements, and that not installing
a sidewalk alleviates difficulties in the extensions of said sidewalk in a logical and functional manner on
properties that are not associated with the proposed development and based on existing development, will
not redevelop in a manner that would require dedication of right-of-way or removal of trees. The
application further suggests that in the event that frontage improvements are required, a five-foot wide
curbside sidewalk with two street trees planted behind the sidewalk could be installed.
The exception is consistent with the Purpose and Intent of the Street
Standards in subsection 18.4.6.040.A.transportation
options, focus on a safe environment for all users, design streets as public spaces, and enhance the
livability of neighborhoods, consistent with the Comprehensive Plan. The Street Design Standards outline
the art and science of developing healthy, livable streets, and are intended to illustrate current standards
for planning and designing the streets of Ashland. The standards are to be used in the development of new
streets, and reconstruction of existing streets or portions thereof (i.e. improving a paved local street by
adding sidewalks). The standards area also intended as a resource for use by home builders, developers,
and community members in the pursuit of quality development practices. The application materials
explain that there are very limited sidewalks with parkrow on the east side of Oak Street, noting that this
was due to a many-years-long, very involved Local Improvement District (LID) process to improve Oak
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Street. The application concludes that the exception seeks to not install sidewalks and parkrow along the
frontage of the property due to the limited length of the sidewalk north of the driveway (28-feet), the lack
of available right-of-way to install improvements, and that not installing sidewalk and parkrow will not
negatively impact the vehicular, bicycle and pedestrian experience.
Staff Analysis: Exception to the Street Design Standards
Staff would first note that with regard to the inadequate width of the available right-of-way to accommodate
city standard frontage improvements, AMC 18.4.6.050 explicitly provides that:
.͵ {ƷƩĻĻƷ 5ĻķźĭğƷźƚƓ wĻƨǒźƩĻķ͵ The approval authority may require the dedication of land for the construction
of a city street, greenway, or portion thereof, provided that the impact of the development on the city
transportation system is roughly proportional to the dedication. It is assumed that all development requiring
planning actions will increase traffic generated in the area unless it can be proven otherwise to the satisfaction
of the Planning Commission. Land will be dedicated by a property owner for the construction of a street or
greenway when:
1.A development requiring a planning action, partition, or subdivision takes place on the owner's property;
2.The development will result in increases in the traffic generated (i.e., pedestrian, bicycle, auto) in the
area, by some measure;
3.The property contains a future street or greenway dedicated on the official map adopted pursuant
to 18.4.6.050.D;
4.Where required neighborhood street connections are not shown on the Street Dedication Map, the
development shall provide for the reasonable continuation and connection of the transportation system
to serve the development and adjacent vacant or redevelopable lands, conforming to
section 18.4.6.040.E Connectivity Standards; and
5.The City may require additional right-of-way for streets that do not meet the street standards of this
chapter, or as necessary for realignments of intersections or street sections, which do not have to be
shown on the official map.
assessment, based on these street dedication requirements above, the application can and should be
required to dedicate additional right-of-way to accommodate the future installation of city-standard frontage
improvements along Oak Street both in terms of being proportional to the impacts of added pedestrian trips
within the system and because the applicant is also requesting a Variance not to provide the required public
street serving the proposed new lots/units. A condition has been included below to require the dedication of
the additional right-of-way necessary to accommodate standard frontage improvements, which equate to an
additional approximately five-and-a-half feet
Typically, developments are required to install incremental improvements to city standard along their frontage
so that as infill occurs, the system is gradually brought up to city standards. On the Oak Street corridor in the
immediate vicinity, between East Nevada Street and Sleepy Hollow Drive, there are currently two sections of
parkrow and sidewalk that were required with incremental development that illustrate this approach (see 780
Oak Street and 952-982 Oak Street).
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However, in this instance staff do believe that the requested Exception is merited. In addition to there being
large stature Oaks on the properties immediately to the north and south, there are also fences, utility pedestals
and grade changes behind the curb which mean that a pedestrian using a section of sidewalk installed here on
to avoid this situation it would be preferable to
have the applicant sign-in favor of a future LID for the improvement of the east side of Oak Street as required
in AMC 18.4.6.030.B which would enable a more comprehensive planning process for the corridor to address
the various constraints in place, dedicate the additional right-of-way necessary to support eventual sidewalk
and parkrow installation along the frontage (approximately five-and-a-half feet) and to have the applicant re-
grade the frontage to curb level and install a five-foot wide compacted granite path behind the curb to support
on-street parking in the interim.
2.8 The Planning Commission finds that the removal of street trees is not regulated through the land
use ordinance in AMC Chapter 18. As these removals are cutting trees from city property, the City
Manager or designee is instead charged with regulating street tree removal or pruning through AMC
No trees shall be planted in or removed from any public
planting strip or other public property in the City until a permit has been issued by the City Manager or
being removed with a tree or trees of comparable value. If the tree is determined to be dead or dying, then
the replacement need be no larger than the minimum described in this chapter. The replacement tree(s)
shall be of a size specified in the permit and shall be no smaller than eight (8) feet in height or one (1)
inch in caliper twelve (12) inches above root crown and shall be an appropriate species selected from and
planted according to the Recommended Street Tree List.Street Tree Removal Permits are ministerial,
and there are no land use criteria detailed in the code however the criteria established by the City Manager
for Street Tree Removal permits, as detailed on the Street Tree Removal Permit application are:
a)9ƒĻƩŭĻƓĭǤ ƩĻĻ wĻƒƚǝğƌ͵ The tree presents an immediate danger of collapse and represents a clear and
present hazard to persons or property. Immediate danger of collapse is defined as a tree that may already
be leaning, with the surrounding soil heaving, and/or there is a significant likelihood that the tree will
topple or otherwise fail and cause damage before a tree removal permit could be obtained through the
non-emergency process.
b)IğǩğƩķ ƩĻĻ wĻƒƚǝğƌ͵ The tree presents a clear public safety hazard (i.e., likely to fall and injure persons
or property) or a foreseeable danger of property damage to an existing structure or facility, and such
hazard or danger cannot reasonably be alleviated by treatment, relocation, or pruning. A hazard tree is a
tree that is physically damaged to the degree that it is clear the tree is likely to fall and injure persons or
property. A hazard tree may also include a tree that is located within a public right-of-way and is causing
damage to existing public or private facilities or services and such facilities or services cannot be relocated.
c)5Ļğķ ƩĻĻ͵ The tree is dead. A dead tree is lifeless. Such evidence of lifelessness may include unseasonable
lack of foliage, brittle dry branches, or lack of any growth during the growing season.
Staff Analysis Street Tree Removal Permit Request
The application proposes to remove three native Black Oak trees (Quercus Kelloggii) located behind the curb
line. These three Oaks are described as stressed and unhealthy, and the project arborist indicates that the
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September 14, 2021
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three trees show signs of decline, noting that there is an animal burrow being created at the base of the
southernmost tree which is actively undermining the base of the tree and that all three trees have numerous
dead branches in the crown which are over two-inches in diameter. The trees are elevated above the street
on a small berm, and in their current state would not respond well to even slight alterations to their
environment. The arborist indicates that the trees show obvious signs of past branch shedding, and concludes
that the likelihood of preserving the trees or improving their health is very poor. Staff observations on site
confirm that the base of southernmost tree has been significantly
undermined, and that there is dead wood in the canopies, as illustrated in the photos below.
Staff Photo of Undermined Base of Southernmost Oak (July 30, 2021).
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Staff Photo of Large, Dead, Broken Limbs in Canopy (July 30, 2021)
The arborist suggests that the best long-
remove all three trees, and once the development is complete to plant healthy replacement trees in the form
of two- to three-inch caliper Quercus Kelloggii or other large-canopied, regionally-acclimated tree species (i.e.
Swamp White Oak, Valley Oak, Willow Oak, Shumard Oak or Red Oak) located slightly further from the street.
The arborist suggests that the soil in the area where the replacement trees will be planted should be protected
from compaction during development, and that mulch, fertilizer and drip irrigation should be provided and
maintained on a schedule for at least three years post planting. The application indicates that six replacement
Oaks will be planted along the driveway to recover lost canopy coverage, shade the non-permeable surfaces
and aid in the absorption of stormwater run-off, and that the replacement trees would be at least two-inch
caliper with proper soil conditions and irrigation.
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three Oaks represent a potential future public safety hazard which cannot reasonably be alleviated by
treatment, relocation, or pruning in that their current condition and state of decline will only further
deteriorate with time and development of the property.
The application also notes that the two healthy Incense Cedar (Calocedrus Decurrens) along the north
property line will likely survive the impacts of development if properly protected during construction. The
applicant proposes to provide required tree protection fencing along with five-inches of mulch installed
starting three feet from the trunk and extending out to the end of the dripline. Trees are to be watered once
a week during construction with approximately 100 gallons of water applied within 10 feet of the dripline
during the months of April through October, and if work is to be done within the tree protection zones, a
certified arborist will be consulted to identify best practices to preserve and protect the trees.
As these draft findings are being prepared, the Ashland Tree Commission has not yet reviewed the application
but will do so at its regular meeting on August 5, 2021. A condition has been included to make the
recommendations of the project arborist and the Tree Commission conditions of any approval, where
consistent with applicable standards and with final approval by the Staff Advisor. Written recommendations
from the Tree Commission will be provided to the Planning Commissioners prior to the hearing, and specific
recommendations can be incorporated into the findings prior to adoption.
SECTION 3. DECISION
3.1 Based on the record of the Public Hearing on this matter, the Planning Commission concludes that
the proposal for Outline and Final Plan subdivision approvals for a four-unit, five-lot Performance
Standards Options subdivision, Variance to allow a private driveway to serve four units, Exception to
Street Standards not to install frontage improvements and Tree Removal Permit to remove three Oak trees
is supported by evidence contained within the whole record. The Commission further concludes that the
requested Conditional Use Permit with regard to driveway separation is not required for an R-1 zoned
property.
The Commission finds the subdivision proposal itself to be relatively straightforward, with the key issues
being the Variance and Exception requests. The Variance to allow a private driveway to serve four units
here seems appropriate given that the site slopes and adjacent development pattern preclude an
interconnected, gridded street system in the vicinity. The Exception to not provide frontage improvements
is also merited given the trees, grade changes, fencing and utility pedestals located on the properties to the
north and south, however the Commission finds it important that the applicant dedicate the additional
right-of-way necessary to provide for the eventual frontage improvements and sign-in favor of a future
Local Improvement District (LID) agreeing to participate proportionally in a comprehensively planned
improvement project for the corridor.
Therefore, based on our overall conclusions, and upon the proposal being subject to each of the following
conditions, we approve Planning Action #T2-2021-00029. Further, if any one or more of the conditions
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September 14, 2021
Page 21
below are found to be invalid, for any reason whatsoever, then Planning Action #T2-2021-00029 is denied.
The following are the conditions and they are attached to the approval:
1.That all proposals of the applicant shall be conditions of approval unless otherwise modified
herein.
2.That any new addresses shall be assigned by City of Ashland Engineering Department. Street and
subdivision names shall be subject to City of Ashland Engineering Department review for
compliance with applicable naming policies.
3.That permits shall be obtained from the Ashland Public Works Department prior to any work in
the public right of way, including but not limited to permits for driveway approaches, utilities or
any necessary encroachments.
4.That all recommendations of the Tree Commission from their August 5, 2021 regular meeting
(specific recommendations to be added prior to findings adoption)
shall be conditions of
approval, where consistent with applicable criteria and standards and with final approval of the
Staff Advisor.
5.That the recommendations of the project arborist including the type of mitigation trees, tree
protection fencing placement, mulching within tree protection zones and watering schedule shall
be conditions of approval.
6.That the tree protection fencing and other tree preservation measures shall be installed according
to the approved plan, inspected and approved by the Staff Advisor prior to any site work, storage
of materials, staging or issuance of a building or excavation permit. The tree protection shall be
chain link fencing six feet tall and installed in accordance with 18.4.5.030.C. and no construction
activity, including dumping or storage of materials such as building supplies, soil, waste,
equipment, or parked vehicles, shall occur within the tree protection zones.
7.That parking on the four proposed developable lots shall be situated on the properties so that
vehicles can turn and exit to the street in a forward manner.
8.That prior to submittal of the final subdivision plat for signature:
a.Final electric service, utility and civil plans including but not limited to the water, sewer,
storm drainage, electric, street and driveway improvements shall be submitted for the
review and approval of the Planning, Building, Electric, and Public Works/Engineering
Departments. The utility plan shall include the location of connections to all public
facilities including the locations of water lines and meter sizes; fire hydrant; sanitary sewer
lines, manholes and clean- drain lines and catch basins; and locations of all
primary and secondary electric services including line locations, transformers (to scale),
cabinets, meters and all other necessary equipment. Transformers, cabinets and vaults shall
be located in areas least visible from streets, while considering the access needs of the
utility departments. Any required private or public utility easements shall be delineated on
the civil plans. All civil infrastructure shall be installed by the applicants, inspected and
approved prior to the signature of the final survey plat.
b.That the applicant shall submit a final electric design and distribution plan including load
calculations and locations of all primary and secondary services including transformers,
cabinets and all other necessary equipment. This plan must be reviewed and approved by
the Electric Department prior to the signature of the final survey plat. Transformers and
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Page 22
cabinets shall be located in areas least visible from streets and outside of the sidewalk
corridor and vision clearance areas, while considering the access needs of the Electric
Department. Electric services shall be installed underground to serve all lots within the
applicable phase prior to signature of the final survey plat. At the discretion of the Staff
Advisor, a bond may be posted for the full amount of underground service installation (with
necessary permits and connection fees paid) as an alternative to installation of service prior
to signature of the final survey plat. In either case, the electric service plan shall be
reviewed and approved by the Ashland Electric Department and Ashland Engineering
Division prior to installation.
c.A site plan illustrating revised building envelopes which will protect slopes greater than 25
percent from building placement and construction disturbance, and a revised solar envelope
d.Final lot coverage calculations demonstrating how lot coverage is to comply with the
applicable coverage allowances of the R-1-5 zoning district. Lot coverage includes all
building footprints, driveways, parking areas and other circulation areas, and any other
areas other than natural landscaping.
e.All easements including but not limited to public and private utilities and fire apparatus
access shall be indicated on the final subdivision plat submittal for review by the Planning,
Engineering, Building and Fire Departments.
f.A final storm drainage plan detailing the location and final engineering for all storm
drainage improvements associated with the project shall be submitted for review and
approval by the Departments of Public Works, Planning and Building Divisions. The storm
drainage plan shall demonstrate that post-development peak flows are less than or equal to
the pre-development peak flow for the site as a whole, and that storm water quality
mitigation has been addressed through the final design.
g.A final grading and erosion control plan.
n.That the requirements of the Ashland Fire Department relating to approved addressing; fire
apparatus access, fire apparatus access approach, aerial ladder access, firefighter access
pathways, and fire apparatus turn-around; fire hydrant distance, spacing and clearance; fire
department work area; fire sprinklers; limitations on gates, fences or other access
obstructions; and addressing standards for wildfire hazard areas including vegetation
standards and limits on work during fire season shall be satisfactorily addressed in the Final
Plan submittals. Fire Department requirements shall be included in the civil drawings.
o.That a final Fire Prevention and Control Plan addressing the General Fuel Modification
Area requirements in AMC 18.3.10.100.A.2 of the Ashland Land Use Ordinance shall be
provided prior to bringing combustible materials onto the property, and any new
landscaping proposed shall comply with these standards and shall not include plants listed
on the Prohibited Flammable Plant List per Resolution 2018-028.
p.That CC&Rs for the Homeowner's Association shall be provided for review and approval
of the Staff Advisor with the final plat submittal
for the maintenance of all common use-improvements including driveway, open space,
landscaping, utilities, and stormwater detention and drainage system, and shall include an
operations and maintenance plan for the stormwater detention and drainage system.
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q.The approved Tree Protection Plan and accompanying standards for compliance shall be
noted in the CC&Rs. The CC&Rs must state that deviations from the approved Tree
Preservation and Protection Plan shall be considered a violation of the Planning
Application approval and therefore subject to penalties described in the Ashland Municipal
Code.
r.A fencing plan which demonstrates that all fencing shall be consistent with the provisions
common open space, except for deer fencing, shall not exceed four feet in height. Fencing
d height of fencing
shall be identified at the time of building permit submittals, and fence permits shall be
obtained prior to installation.
s.That the applicant shall sign in favor of a local improvement district (LID) for the future
improvement of Oak Street, including sidewalks, parkrow with irrigated street trees, curb,
gutters and storm drainage. This agreement shall be recorded concurrently with the final
subdivision survey plat.
t.That a Fire Prevention and Control Plan addressing the General Fuel Modification Area
requirements in AMC 18.3.10.100.A.2 of the Ashland Land Use Ordinance shall be
provided prior to bringing combustible materials onto the property, and any new
landscaping proposed shall comply with these standards and shall not include plants listed
on the Prohibited Flammable Plant List per Resolution 2018-028.
9.Prior to signature of the final subdivision survey plat:
a.That a final survey plat shall be submitted within 12 months and approved by the City of
Ashland within 18 months of this approval.
b.The final survey plat shall include the dedication of additional right-of-way (approximately
five-and-a-half feet) necessary to accommodate the future installation of city standard park
row planting strips and sidewalks along the full Oak Street frontage to accommodate the
street system proposed by the applicant.
c.That the subdivision name and all street names shall be approved by the City of Ashland
Engineering Division.
d.All easements including but not limited to public and private utilities, drainage, irrigation,
and fire apparatus access shall be indicated on the final survey plat as required by the
Ashland Engineering Division.
e.Subdivision infrastructure improvements including but not limited to utilities, driveway,
and common area improvements shall be completed according to approved plans, inspected
and approved prior to signature of the final survey plat.
f.Replacement trees to mitigate the trees removed shall be planted and irrigated according to
the approved plan, inspected and approved by the Staff Advisor.
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September 14, 2021
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g.Electric services shall be installed underground to serve all lots, inspected and approved.
The final electric service plan shall be reviewed and approved by the Ashland Electric,
Building, Planning and Engineering Divisions prior to installation.
h.That the sanitary sewer laterals and water services including connection with meters at the
street shall be installed to serve all lots within the applicable phase, inspected and approved.
10.That prior to the issuance of a building permit for any unit:
a.The applicant shall provide evidence that the Earth Advantage® certifications necessary to
satisfy the requirements for the conservation housing density bonus are being pursued, and
prior to the issuance of a final certificate of occupancy the applicant shall provide evidence
of having received the required Earth Advantage® certification.
September 14, 2021
Planning Commission Approval Date
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September 14, 2021
Page 25
Grizzly Peak View Subdivision
ROGUE PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT SERVICES, LLC
Grizzly Peak View Subdivision
A Performance Standards Subdivision
Subject Property:
Property Owner:
Applicant:
Planning Consultant:
Engineer:
Surveyor:
Tree Protection and Planting Plan:
Subject Property
Map & Tax Lot:
Comprehensive Plan Designation:
Comprehensive
Plan Designation:
Zoning:
Adjacent Zones:
Lot Area:
Overlay Zones:
Request:
Site Background and Description:
Proposal:
Access and Circulation
Trees:
Open space:
Times New Roman
Findings of Fact
PERFORMANCE STANDARDS OVERLAY
18.3.9.030
A.Purpose.
The purpose of the PSO overlay is to distinguish between those areas that have been
largely developed under the subdivision code, and those areas which, due to the undeveloped nature of
the property, sloping topography, or the existence of vegetation or natural hazards, are more suitable for
development under Performance Standards.
B.Applicability.
This chapter applies to properties located in the Performance Standards Option
Overlay (PSO) as depicted on the Zoning Map. All developments in the PSO overlay, other than
partitions and development of individual dwelling units, shall be processed under this chapter. The
minimum number of dwelling units for a Performance Standards Subdivision within residential zoning
districts is three.
C.Permitted Uses.
In a PSO overlay, the granting of the application shall be considered an outright
permitted use, subject to review by the Planning Commission for compliance with the standards set forth
in this ordinance and the guidelines adopted by the City Council.
D.Development Outside PSO-Overlay.
If a parcel is not in a PSO overlay, then development under
this chapter may only be approved if one or more of the following conditions exist.
2. That development under this chapter is necessary to protect the environment and the
neighborhood from degradation which would occur from development to the maximum density
allowed under subdivision standards or would be equal in its aesthetic and environmental impact.
A.Outline Plan.
A proposed outline plan shall accompany applications for subdivision approval under
this chapter. For developments of fewer than ten lots, the outline plan may be filed concurrently with the
final plan, as that term is defined in subsection 18.3.9.040.B.4. For developments of ten or more lots,
prior outline plan approval is mandatory.
1. Review Procedure. The Type II procedure in section 18.5.1.060 shall be used for the approval
of the outline plan.
2. Application Submission Requirements.
3. Approval Criteria for Outline Plan. The Planning Commission shall approve the outline plan
when it finds all of the following criteria have been met:
a. The development meets all applicable ordinance requirements of the City.
b. Adequate key City facilities can be provided including water, sewer, paved access to and
through the development, electricity, urban storm drainage, police and fire protection, and
adequate transportation; and that the development will not cause a City facility to operate beyond
capacity.
c. The existing and natural features of the land; such as wetlands, floodplain corridors, ponds,
large trees, rock outcroppings, etc., have been identified in the plan of the development and
significant features have been included in the common open space, common areas, and
unbuildable areas.
d. The development of the land will not prevent adjacent land from being developed for the uses
shown in the Comprehensive Plan.
e. There are adequate provisions for the maintenance of common open space and common areas,
if required or provided, and that if developments are done in phases that the early phases have
the same or higher ratio of amenities as proposed in the entire project.
f. The proposed density meets the base and bonus density standards established under this
chapter.
g. The development complies with the street standards.
h. The proposed development meets the common open space standards established under
section 18.4.070. Common open space requirements may be satisfied by public open space in
accordance with section 18.4.4.070 if approved by the City of Ashland.
4. Approval of the Outline Plan.
a. After the City approves an outline plan and adopts any zone change necessary for the
development, the developer may then file a final plan in phases or in its entirety.
b. If an outline plan is phased, 50 percent of the value of the common open space shall be
provided in the first phase and all common open space shall be provided when two-thirds of the
units are finished.
B.Final Plan.
5. Approval Criteria for Final Plan. Final plan approval shall be granted upon finding of substantial
conformance with the outline plan. This substantial conformance provision is intended solely to
facilitate the minor modifications from one planning step to another. Substantial conformance shall exist
when comparison of the outline plan with the final plan meets all of the following criteria:
a. The number of dwelling units vary no more than ten percent of those shown on the approved
outline plan, but in no case shall the number of units exceed those permitted in the outline plan.
b. The yard depths and distances between main buildings vary no more than ten percent of those
shown on the approved outline plan, but in no case shall these distances be reduced below the
minimum established within this ordinance.
c. The common open spaces vary no more than ten percent of that provided on the outline plan.
d. The building size does not exceed the building size shown on the outline plan by more than
ten percent.
e. The building elevations and exterior materials are in conformance with the purpose and intent
of this ordinance and the approved outline plan.
f. That the additional standards which resulted in the awarding of bonus points in the outline
plan approval have been included in the final plan with substantial detail to ensure that the
performance level committed to in the outline plan will be achieved.
g. The development complies with the street standards.
h. Nothing in this section shall limit reduction in the number of dwelling units or increased open
space; provided, that if this is done for one phase, the number of dwelling units shall not be
transferred to another phase, nor the common open space reduced below that permitted in the
outline plan.
6. Any substantial amendment to an approved final plan shall follow a Type I procedure in section
18.5.1.040 and be reviewed in accordance with the above criteria.
LAND DIVISIONS AND PROPERTY LINE ADJUSTMENTS
18.5.3.020 Applicability and General Requirements
A. Applicability.
The requirements for partitions and subdivisions apply, as follows.
1. Subdivisions are the creation of four or more lots from one parent lot, parcel, or tract, within
one calendar year.
B.Land Survey.
Before any action is taken pursuant to this ordinance that would cause adjustments or
realignment of property lines, required yard areas, or setbacks, the exact lot lines shall be validated by
location of official survey pins or by a survey performed by a licensed surveyor.
C.Subdivision and Partition Approval Through Two-Step Process.
Applications for subdivision or
partition approval shall be processed by means of a preliminary plat evaluation and a final plat
evaluation.
1. The preliminary plat must be approved before the final plat can be submitted for review.
2. The final plat must demonstrate compliance with all conditions of approval of the preliminary
plat.
D.Compliance With Oregon Revised Statutes (ORS) chapter 92.
All subdivision and partitions shall
conform to state regulations in Oregon Revised Statute (ORS) chapter 92, Subdivisions and Partitions.
E. Future Re-Division Plan.
When subdividing or partitioning tracts into large lots (i.e., greater than two
times or 200 percent the minimum lot size allowed by the underlying land use district), the lots
shall be of such size, shape, and orientation as to facilitate future re-division and extension ofstreets and
utilities. The approval authority may require a development plan indicating how furtherdivision of
oversized lots and extension of planned public facilities to adjacent parcels can occur inthe future. If the
Planning Commission determines that an area or tract of land has been or is in theprocess of being divided
into four or more lots, the Commission can require full compliance with all subdivision regulations.
18.5.3.050 Preliminary Partition Plat Criteria
A. The future use for urban purposes of the remainder of the tract will not be impeded.
B. The development of the remainder of any adjoining land or access thereto will not be impeded.
C. The partition plan conforms to applicable City-adopted neighborhood or district plans, if any, and
any previous land use approvals for the subject area.
D. The tract of land has not been partitioned for 12 months.
E. Proposed lots conform to the requirements of the underlying zone, per part 18.2, any applicable overlay
zone requirements, per part 18.3, and any applicable development standards, per part 18.4 (e.g., parking
and access, tree preservation, solar access and orientation).
F. Accesses to individual lots conform to the standards in section 18.4.3.080 Vehicle Area Design. See
also, 18.5.3.060 Additional Preliminary Flag Lot Partition Plat Criteria.
AMC 18.4.3.080. Vehicle Area Design
A.Parking Location
a.In no case shall driveways be closer than 24 feet as measured from the bottom of the existing
or proposed apron wings of the driveway approach.
b. Partitions and subdivisions of property located in an R-2, R-3, C-1, E-1, CM, or M-1 zone shall
meet the controlled access standards set forth below. If applicable, cross access easements shall be
required so that access to all properties created by the land division can be made from one or more
points.
c.Street and driveway access points in an R-2, R-3, C-1, E-1, CM, or M-1 zone shall be limited
to the following.
i.Distance between driveways.
on boulevard streets: 100 feet
on collector streets: 75 feet
on neighborhood streets:24 feet for 2 units or fewer per lot,50 feet for three or more units
per lot
ii.Distance from intersections.
on boulevard streets:100 feet
on collector streets: 50 feet
on neighborhood streets: 35 feet
d. Access Requirements for Multi-family Developments. All multi-family developments which
will have automobile trip generation in excess of 250 vehicle trips per day shall provide at least
two driveway access points to the development. Trip generation shall be determined by the
methods established by the Institute of Transportation Engineers.
4. Shared Use of Driveways and Curb Cuts.
a. Plans submitted for developments subject to a planning action shall indicate how
driveway intersections with streets have been minimized through the use of shared
driveways and all necessary access easements. Where necessary from traffic safety
and access management purposes, the City may require joint access and/or shared
driveways in the following situations.
i. For shared parking areas.
ii. For adjacent developments, where access onto an arterial is limited.
iii.For multi-family developments, and developments on multiple lots.
b. Developments subject to a planning action shall remove all curb cuts and driveway
approaches not shown to be necessary for existing improvements or the proposed
development. Curb cuts and approaches shall be replaced with standard curb, gutter,
sidewalk, and planter/furnishings strip as appropriate.
c.If the site is served by a shared access or alley, access for motor vehicles must be from
the shared access or alley and not from the street frontage.
5. Alley Access. Where a property has alley access, vehicle access shall be taken from the alley
and driveway approaches and curb cuts onto adjacent streets are not permitted.
G. The proposed streets, utilities, and surface water drainage facilities conform to the street design
standards and other requirements in part 18.4, and allow for transitions to existing and potential future
development on adjacent lands. The preliminary plat shall identify all proposed public improvements and
dedications.
H. Unpaved Streets.
I. Where an alley exists adjacent to the partition, access may be required to be provided from the alley and
prohibited from the street.
J. Required State and Federal permits, as applicable, have been obtained or can reasonably be obtained
prior to development.
K. A partition plat containing one or more flag lots shall additionally meet the criteria in section
18.5.3.060.
18.2.2.030 Allowed Uses
A. Uses Allowed in Base Zones. Allowed uses include those that are permitted, permitted subject to
special use standards, and allowed subject to approval of a conditional use permit.
18.2.5.090 Standards for Single-Family Dwellings
A.
The following standards apply to new single-family dwellings constructed in the R-1, R-1-3.5, R-2,
and R-3 zones; the standards do not apply to dwellings in the WR or RR zones.
B.
Single-family dwellings subject to this section shall utilize at least two of the following design
features to provide visual relief along the front of the residence:
1. Dormers
2. Gables
3. Recessed entries
4. Covered porch entries
5. Cupolas
6. Pillars or posts
7. Bay window (min. 12" projection)
8. Eaves (min. 6" projection)
9. Off-sets in building face or roof (min. 16")
EXCEPTIONTO STREET STANDARDS
18.4.6.020.B.1.
1.Exception to the Street Design Standards. The approval authority may approve exceptions to the
standards section in 18.4.6.040 Street Design Standards if all of the following circumstances are
found to exist.
a. There is demonstrable difficulty in meeting the specific requirements of this chapter due to a
unique or unusual aspect of the site or proposed use of the site.
b. The exception will result in equal or superior transportation facilities and connectivity
considering the following factors where applicable.
c. The exception is the minimum necessary to alleviate the difficulty.
d. The exception is consistent with the Purpose and Intent of the Street Standards in
subsection 18.4.6.040.A.
CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT
18.5.4.050 - Approval Criteria
A.Approval Criteria. A Conditional Use Permit shall be granted if the approval authority finds that the
application meets all of the following criteria, or can be made to conform through the imposition of
conditions.
1.That the use would be in conformance with all standards within the zoning district in which the use is
proposed to be located, and in conformance with relevant Comprehensive plan policies that are not
implemented by any City, State, or Federal law or program.
2.That adequate capacity of City facilities for water, sewer, electricity, urban storm drainage, paved
access to and throughout the development, and adequate transportation can and will be provided to the
subject property.
3.That the conditional use will have no greater adverse material effect on the livability of the impact area
when compared to the development of the subject lot with the target use of the zone, pursuant with
subsection 18.5.4.050.A.5, below. When evaluating the effect of the proposed use on the impact area, the
following factors of livability of the impact area shall be considered in relation to the target use of the
zone.
a. Similarity in scale, bulk, and coverage.
b. Generation of traffic and effects onsurrounding streets. Increases in pedestrian, bicycle, and
mass transit use are considered beneficial regardless of capacity of facilities.
c.Architectural compatibility with the impact area.
d. Air quality, including the generation of dust, odors, or other environmental pollutants.
e. Generation of noise, light, and glare.
f. The development of adjacent properties as envisioned in the Comprehensive Plan.
g. Other factors found to be relevant by the approval authority for review of the proposed use.
4.A conditional use permit shall not allow a use that is prohibited or one that is not permitted pursuant
to this ordinance.
5.For the purposes of reviewing conditional use permit applicationsfor conformity with the approval
criteria of this subsection, the target uses of each zone are as follows.
b. R-1. Residential use complying with all ordinance requirements, developed at the density
permitted by chapter 18.2.5 Standards for Residential Zones.
VARIANCE CRITERIA
18.5.5.050 - Approval Criteria
A.The approval authority through a Type I or Type II procedure, as applicable, may approve a variance
upon finding that it meets all of the following criteria.
1. The variance is necessary because the subject code provision does not account for special or
unique physical circumstances of the subject site, such as topography, natural features, adjacent
development, or similar circumstances. A legal lot determination may be sufficient evidence of a
hardship for purposes of approving a variance.
2. The variance is the minimum necessary to address the special or unique physical circumstances
related to the subject site.
3. The proposal’s benefits will be greater than any negative impacts on the development of the
adjacent uses and will further the purpose and intent of this ordinance and the Comprehensive Plan
of the City.
4. The need for the variance is not self-imposed by the applicant or property owner. For example,
the variance request does not arise as result of a property line adjustment or land division approval
previously granted to the applicant.
STREET TREE REMOVAL
Street Tree Removal Approval Criteria
a) Emergency Tree Removal. The tree presents an immediate danger of collapse and represents a clear
and present hazard to personsor property. Immediate danger of collapse is defined as a tree that may
already be leaning, with the surrounding soil heaving, and/or there is a significant likelihood that the tree
will topple or otherwise fail and cause damage before a tree removal permit could beobtained through the
non-emergency process.
b) Hazard Tree Removal. The tree presents a clear public safety hazard (i.e., likely to fall and injure
persons or property) or a
foreseeable danger of property damage to an existing structure or facility, and such hazard or danger
cannot reasonably be alleviatedby treatment, relocation, or pruning. A hazard tree is a tree that is
physically damaged to the degree that it is clear the tree is likely tofall and injure persons or property. A
hazard tree mayalso include a tree that is located within a public right-of-way and is causingdamage to
existing public or private facilities or services and such facilities or services cannot be relocated.
Attachments:
STREET TREE REMOVAL PERMIT
Planning Division
51 Winburn Way, Ashland OR 97520
541-488-5305 Fax 541-488-6006
A tree that is located in any public street right-of-way or other public property may not be removed until a Street Tree Removal Permit has been
submitted according to the Application Submission Requirements, below, and reviewed and approved by the City of Ashland.
An application for street tree removal must demonstrate that the tree is an emergency, hazard, or dead tree as outlined below in the Application
Submission Requirements.
Application Submission Requirements. An application for a street tree removal permit shall include all of the following information.
1.Application Form and Fee. The application must include the information requested on the Street Tree Removal Permit form provided by
the City of Ashland and the permit application fee. Only those property owners of a lot adjoining the street tree location or homeowners’
associations responsible for street trees in their development or subdivision may apply to remove an adjoining street tree. If a tree is
located in front of more than one property, each property owner or homeowners’ association official must sign the Street Tree Removal
Permit form.
2.Site Plan. A site plan of the property drawn to scale containing the following information. The scale of the site plan must be at least one
inch equals 50 feet or larger.
a.North arrow and scale.
b.Property boundaries including dimensions of all lot lines and driveway locations.
c.Location and width of all public streets, planting strips, and sidewalks adjoining the site.
d.Size, species, and location of the tree(s) proposed to be removed.
3.Written Statement. A written statement explaining how the proposed street tree removal satisfies one of the following approval criteria.
The Community Development director may require additional information to demonstrate that the proposed removal satisfies one of the
following approval criteria including: 1) a written statement to be prepared by an arborist licensed by the State of Oregon Landscape
Contractors Board of Construction Contractors Board and certified by the International Society of Arboriculture or American Society of
Consulting Arborists; and 2) an International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) Basic Tree Risk Assessment Form to be completed by an
arborist.
Street Tree Removal Approval Criteria
a)Emergency Tree Removal. The tree presents an immediate danger of collapse and represents a clear and present hazard to persons
or property. Immediate danger of collapse is defined as a tree that may already be leaning, with the surrounding soil heaving, and/or
there is a significant likelihood that the tree will topple or otherwise fail and cause damage before a tree removal permit could be
obtained through the non-emergency process.
b)Hazard Tree Removal. The tree presents a clear public safety hazard (i.e., likely to fall and injure persons or property) or a
foreseeable danger of property damage to an existing structure or facility, and such hazard or danger cannot reasonably be alleviated
by treatment, relocation, or pruning. A hazard tree is a tree that is physically damaged to the degree that it is clear the tree is likely to
fall and injure persons or property. A hazard tree may also include a tree that is located within a public right-of-way and is causing
damage to existing public or private facilities or services and such facilities or services cannot be relocated.
c)Dead Tree. The tree is dead. A dead tree is lifeless. Such evidence of lifelessness may include unseasonable lack of foliage, brittle
dry branches, or lack of any growth during the growing season.
Replacement and Stump Removal. Applicants for approved Street Tree Removal Permits are required to remove any stumps and replace the tree.
Stump removal and replacements for approved street tree removals shall meet the following requirements.
1.Any street tree removed shall be removed at ground level or lower. If a tree is removed below ground level, the surface must be restored to
finish grade and any regrowth which occurs shall be promptly removed.
2.All street trees shall be an appropriate species selected from and planted according to the City of Ashland Recommended Street Tree List.
3.The minimum size for a replacement tree is eight feet in height or one inch in caliper measured at 12 inches above the root crown.
4.Applicants for a Street Tree Removal Permit may be required to replace the tree or trees being removed with a tree or trees of comparable
value.
5.If a street tree is determined to be dead or dying, then the replacement need be no larger than the minimize size described above.
Type of Tree(s) _________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Approximate Diameter at breast height _______________ Height ________________________ Canopy _____________________________
Location of Tree ________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Reason for Request _____________________________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Are there underground utility lines and/or overhead power lines present? ___________________________________________________________
If yes, please list which lines are present _____________________________________________________________________________________
Is there sidewalk damage? _______________ If yes, has a Public Works permit been issued? ____________
OVER
C:\\Users\\lucasa\\Desktop\\Street Tree Removal Permit_Revised 2016.doc
DESCRIPTION OF PROPERTY
Street Address __________________________________________________________________________________________________________
39 1E
Assessor’s Map No. ________________________________________________ Tax Lot(s) ______________________________________
Zoning _____________________________________________ Comp Plan Designation ___________________________________________
PROPERTY OWNER
Name ________________________________________ Phone ______________________ E-Mail _________________________________
Address _________________________________________________ City __________________ Zip _______________________________
Name ________________________________________ Phone ______________________ E-Mail _________________________________
Address _________________________________________________ City __________________ Zip _______________________________
PROFESSIONAL PERFORMING THE TREE REMOVAL (e.g., tree service)
Name ________________________________________ Phone ______________________ E-Mail _________________________________
Address _________________________________________________ City __________________ Zip _______________________________
ARBORIST, LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT, OTHER
Title _____________________Name ________________________________ Phone ___________________ E-Mail ________________________
Address ______________________________________________________________ City _________________________ Zip _______________
Title _____________________Name ________________________________ Phone ___________________ E-Mail ________________________
Address ______________________________________________________________ City _________________________ Zip _______________
As owner of the property involved in this request, I have read and understood the complete application and its consequences to me as a property owner. I hereby
certify that the statements and information contained in this application are in all respects, true and correct. I further understand that if this request is subsequently
contested, the burden will be on me to establish:
1)that I produced sufficient factual evidence to support this request;
2)that the information contained in this application are adequate; and further
3)that all trees, structures, or improvements are properly located on the ground.
__________________________________
____________________________________________________
Property Owner’s Signature (Date
required)
STAFF DECISION:
Permit is hereby (circle one): Approved Approved with Conditions Denied
Conditions of Approval ___________________________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Is the tree 18” d.b.h or greater? NOYESHas the City has been notified:NOYES
___________________________
_____________________________________________________________
Community Development Director/Planning Manager Signature Date
C:\\Users\\lucasa\\Desktop\\Street Tree Removal Permit_Revised 2016.doc
Amy Gunter
Grizzly Peak view Subdivision
1314-B Center Dr., PMB 457
822 Oak Street
Medford, OR 97501
541-951-4020
04CA: 200 & 201
February 5, 2021
Zoe Lane: Zoe Lane is the requested as the name for a new, public street. Zoe Applegate (b1878 - d1902) is the daughter of William Henry
Applegate and Nancy Elizabeth Grubb Applegate. William was the first son of Jesse Applegate and Cynthia Parker born in Oregon.
Jesse Applegate was part of the world famous Applegate party led by relatvies, Charles, Jesse and Lindsay Applegate.
Zoe's grandfather was one of the first Oregon explorers of the "Southern Route" also referred to as the Applegate trail which was established
in 1846. Oregonpioneers.com/1846
Zoe's mother was Nancy Elizabeth Grubb Applegate, she was the daughter of Ashland Pioneers Samuel Grubb and Elizabeth Bell Grubb.
Zoe Applegate was only 24 years old, living a short and uneventful life but her grandparents are very noteable pioneer families.
Zoe Applegate is interned in Section: 4, Block: 8, Lot:1, Grave:3 at Mountain View Cemetery in Ashland Oregon
Each proposed name will be
considered on its individual merits
Surfacing
Roads &
A.Street may only be named:
1.If listed on the adopted Heritage Street Name List.
The proposed name "Zoe Lane" is not on the Heritage Street Name List.
Excavation
Soils &
2.After a prominent person who:
a.Achieved prominence as a result of his or her significant, positive contribution to the history of the world,
United States, the State of Oregon, Southern Oregon, or the City of Ashland.
The proposed street name is "Zoe Lane" for Zoe Applegate, first daughter of William Henry Harrison Applegate
b. and Nancy Elizabeth Grubb Applegate, pioneer families that settled in the Oregon Is a real person, and
yes Territory.
Sanitary Sewer &
Pollution Control
c.Has been deceased for at least five years.
deceased for more than five years.
3.For a geographical place name of prominence.
4.For flora, fauna, or geologic materials.
5.After a commemorative event which:
a.Achieved distinction as a result of significant and positive contribution to the world, United States, the State
Storm Drainage &
Erosion Control
of Oregon, Southern Oregon, or the City of Ashland.
b.Actually occurred.
6.For a description of the area in which the street is located or a prominent landmark nearby.
b.No street name shall be approved if it is similar to or pronounced the same as the name of any other street
within the City.
Water Supply &
Fire Protection
c.Names for new streets shall be approved by the public works director after consultation with the fire, police
and community development departments.(Ord. 2819 §1, 1998)
The following procedure shall be used in considering changes in street names:
A.A person who desires a street name change shall submit a written request together with the application fee to the
Electrical Power
& Lighting
engineering division of the public works department. The request shall state the reasons for the proposed name change
and shall include a scale diagram of the street.
B.Any proposed name change must meet the requirements of AMC13.24.010.
C.The public works department shall consider the request and may schedule a public hearing before the City council. If
a hearing is scheduled:
1.Notice of the public hearing shall be mailed to the owners of property fronting the street and the fire, police Landscaping &
Irrigation
and community development departments.
2.The scope of the hearing shall be limited to the change of the street name.
3.No recommendation for a name change shall be made unless the council finds that a public need for the
change exists, confusion will be eliminated, or it is desirable for the convenience of the general public. The
council shall have complete legislative discretion to change the name of any street in the City.
D.Street name changes shall be made by resolution.(Ord. 2819 §§2, 3, 1998)
Other
M:\\_PW-Eng\\Addresses\\Streetname_assignment_revised.doc(7.19.2017)3of 4
A street name change application fee shall be established by resolution of the council.
Planning
(As of July1, 2017, the street name application fee is $111.00 per street.)
Notwithstanding other provisions of this chapter, the council may rename a street in order to correct errors, to eliminate
confusion or to further the public interest. Actions initiated under this section shall be exempt from the procedure set forth
in section13.24.020.(Ord. 2793, 1997)
Engineering
Surveying
Building
Others
TreeProtectionMeasures
1. Six-foot tall, chain-link fencing with steel posts placed no farther than ten feet apart,
will be installed at the edge of the tree protection zone.
2. The fencing will be flush with the initial undisturbed grade.
3. Approved signs will be attached to the chain link fencing stating that inside the fencing is a
tree protection zone, not to be disturbed unless prior approval has been obtained from the Staff
Advisor for the project.
4. No construction activity will occur within the tree protection zone, including, dumping or
storage of materials such as building supplies, soil, waste items, equipment, or parked vehicles.
5. The tree protection zone will remain free of chemically injurious materials and liquids, and
construction debris or run-off.
6. No excavation, trenching, grading, root pruning, or other activity will occur within the tree
protection zone unless approved by the Staff Advisor.
6' chainlink
7. All required tree protection measures will be instituted prior to any development activities,
35% +
Tree to remove
tree protection
including, clearing, grading, excavation, or demolition work, and will be removed only after
fence
completion of all construction activity, including landscaping and irrigation installation.
TreeProtectionMeasures
1. Six-foot tall, chain-link fencing with steel posts placed no farther than ten feet apart,
will be installed at the edge of the tree protection zone.
2. The fencing will be flush with the initial undisturbed grade.
3. Approved signs will be attached to the chain link fencing stating that inside the fencing is a
tree protection zone, not to be disturbed unless prior approval has been obtained from the Staff
Advisor for the project.
4. No construction activity will occur within the tree protection zone, including, dumping or
storage of materials such as building supplies, soil, waste items, equipment, or parked vehicles.
5. The tree protection zone will remain free of chemically injurious materials and liquids, and
construction debris or run-off.
6. No excavation, trenching, grading, root pruning, or other activity will occur within the tree
protection zone unless approved by the Staff Advisor.
6' chainlink
7. All required tree protection measures will be instituted prior to any development activities,
35% +
Tree to remove
tree protection
including, clearing, grading, excavation, or demolition work, and will be removed only after
fence
completion of all construction activity, including landscaping and irrigation installation.
TYPE III
PUBLIC HEARING
_________________________________
PA-T2-2021-00031
375 & 475
East Nevada Street
Planning Department, 51 Winburn Way, Ashland, Oregon 97520
541-488-5305 Fax: 541-552-2050 www.ashland.or.us TTY: 1-800-735-2900
NOTICE OF ELECTRONIC PUBLIC HEARING
PLANNING ACTION: PA-T2-2021-00031
SUBJECT PROPERTY: 375 & 475 East Nevada Street
APPLICANT: Rogue Planning & Development Services, LLC for
OWNERS: Peter & Laura Schultz (owners, 375 E. Nevada St.-Tax Lot 1000), David Young (owner, 475 E. Nevada St.-Tax
Lots1100,1200 & 1300)
DESCRIPTION: A request for a Minor Comprehensive Plan Map Correction to clarify the City of Urban Growth
Boundary for four properties located at 375 & 475 East Nevada Street. The application asserts that there are differences in the
location between the official paper maps and the current GIS maps in use by both the County and the City, and that the
original maps scales were such that the line width could significantly alter the boundary location. The application asks to make
clearthat the portions of the four properties in question are within the City of Urban Growth Boundary as Residential
Reserve (1.37 acres of Tax Lot 1000) and North Mountain Neighborhood Plan (2.08 acres of Tax Lots 1100, 1200 &
1300). PLEASE NOTE: The also requires review and
approval of applications to correct errors in the Comprehensive Plan Map by both the Ashland City Council and Jackson County
Board of Commissioners. COMPREHENSIVE PLAN DESIGNATION: Single Family Residential Reserve & North
Mountain; ZONING: RR-.5 & NM-MF; MAP: 39 1E 04A; TAX LOT #: 1000, 1100, 1200 & 1300.
ELECTRONIC ASHLAND PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING: Tuesday, August 10th, 2021 at 7:00 PM
OVER
Notice is hereby given that the Ashland Planning Commission will hold an electronic public hearing on the above described
planning action on the meeting date and time shown above. You can watch the meeting on local channel 9, on Charter
Communications channels 180 & 181, or you can stream the meeting via the internet by going to rvtv.sou.edu and
RVTV Prime.
The ordinance criteria applicable to this planning action are attached to this notice. Oregon law states that failure to raise an
objection concerning this application, or failure to provide sufficient specificity to afford the decision makers an opportunity
to respond to the issue, precludes your right of appeal to the Land Use Board of Appeals (LUBA) on that issue. Failure to
specify which ordinance criterion the objection is based on also precludes your right of appeal to LUBA on that criterion.
Failure of the applicant to raise constitutional or other issues relating to proposed conditions of approval with sufficient
specificity to allow this Commission to respond to the issue precludes an action for damages in circuit court.
Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, application materials are provided online and written comments will be accepted by
email. Alternative arrangements for reviewing the application or submitting comments can be made by contacting (541)
488-5305 or planning@ashland.or.us.
A copy of the application, including all documents, evidence and applicable criteria relied upon by the applicant,
and a copy of the staff report will be available on-line at www.ashland.or.us/PCpackets seven days prior to the
hearing. Copies of application materials will be provided at reasonable cost, if requested. Under extenuating
circumstances, application materials may be requested to be reviewed in-person at the Ashland Community
Development & Engineering Services Building, 51 Winburn Way, via a pre-arranged appointment by calling (541)
488-5305 or emailing planning@ashland.or.us.
Anyone wishing to submit comments can do so by sending an e-mail to PC-public-testimony@ashland.or.us with the
August 10PC Hearing Testimony
August 9, 2021. If the applicant wishes to
provide a rebuttal to the testimony, they can submit the rebuttal via e-mail to PC-public-testimony@ashland.or.us with the
August 10 PC Hearing Testimony
August 10, 2021. Written testimony received
by these deadlines will be available for Planning Commissioners to review before the hearing and will be included in the
meeting minutes.
Oral testimony will be taken during the electronic public hearing. If you wish to provide oral testimony during the electronic
meeting, send an email to PC-public-testimony@ashland.or.us by 10:00 a.m. on Monday, August 9, 2021. In order to
providetestimony at the public hearing, please provide the following information: 1) make the subject line of the email
August 10 Speaker Request
2) include your name, 3) the agenda item on which you wish to speak on, 4) specify if you
will be participating by computer or telephone, and 5) the name you will use if participating by computer or the telephone
number you will use if participating by telephone.
In compliance with the American with Disabilities Act, if you need special assistance to participate in this meeting, please
contact the C-488-6002 (TTY phone number 1-800-735-2900). Notification 72 hours prior
to the meeting will enable the City to make reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility to the meeting. (28 CFR
35.102.-35.104 ADA Title I). If you have questions or comments concerning this request, please feel free to contact Senior
Planner Derek Severson, the staff planner assigned to this application, at 541-488-5305 or e-mail:
derek.severson@ashland.or.us
Minor Map Amendments or Corrections (Type II). \[AMC 18.5.9.020.A.\]
The Type II procedure is used for applications involving zoning map amendments consistent with the Comprehensive Plan map, and minor map amendments
or corrections. Amendments under this section may be approved if in compliance with the Comprehensive Plan and the application demonstrates that one or
more of the following.
1. The change implements a public need, other than the provision of affordable housing, supported by the Comprehensive Plan.
2. A substantial change in circumstances has occurred since the existing zoning or Plan designation was proposed, necessitating the need to adjust to
the changed circumstances.
3. Circumstances relating to the general public welfare exist that require such an action.
4. Proposed increases in residential zoning density resulting from a change from one zoning district to another zoning district, will provide 25 percent of
the proposed base density as affordable housing consistent with the approval standards set forth in subsection 18.5.8.050.G.
5. Increases in residential zoning density of four units or greater on commercial, employment, or industrial zoned lands (i.e., Residential Overlay), will
e 25 percent of the
proposed base density as affordable housing consistent with the approval standards set forth in subsection 18.5.8.050.G.
6. The total number of affordable units described in 18.5.9.020.A, subsections 4 or 5, above, shall be determined by rounding down fractional answers
to the nearest whole unit. A deed restriction, or similar legal instrument, shall be used to guarantee compliance with affordable criteria for a period of
not less than 60 years. 18.5.9.020.A, subsections 4 and 5 do not apply to Council initiated actions.
ASHLAND PLANNING DIVISION
STAFF REPORT
June 8, 2021
PLANNING ACTION:
PA-T2-2021-00031
APPLICANT:
Rogue Planning & Development Services, LLC
OWNERS:
Peter & Laura Schultz (375 E. Nevada St.)
David Young (475 E. Nevada St)
SUBJECT PROPERTIES:
375 East Nevada Street
(39 1E Map 04A, Tax Lot 1000)
475 East Nevada Street
(39 1E Map 04A, Tax Lot 1100-1200-1300)
ORDINANCE REFERENCES:
See
https://ashland.municipal.codes/LandUse
AMC 18.1
Introduction and General Provisions
AMC 18.1.2
Title, Purpose & General
Administration
AMC 18.2
Zoning Regulations
AMC 18.2.1.030
Determination of Zoning Boundaries
AMC 18.5
Application Review Procedures and
Approval Criteria
AMC 18.5.1
General Review Procedures
AMC 18.5.9
Comprehensive Plan, Zoning, and
Land Use Ordinance Amendments
AMC 18.5.9.020.A
Minor Map Amendments or
Corrections
AMC 18.6
Definitions
Ashland Comprehensive Plan (see
http://www.ashland.or.us/Files/Comprehensive_Plan-
updated_6.2019.pdf)
UGBA
1982 Urban Growth Boundary Agreement ()
between City of Ashland & Jackson County (See
https://jacksoncountyor.org/ds/DesktopModules/Bring2
mind/DMX/API/Entries/Download?Command=Core_D
ownload&EntryId=34685&language=en-
US&PortalId=16&TabId=1460)
120-DAY TIMELINE:
Not Applicable (see ORS 227.188)
Planning Action PA-T2-2021-00031 Ashland Planning Division Staff Report (dds)
Applicant: Rogue Planning & Development Services, LLC Page 1 of 13
REQUEST:
The application is a request for a Minor Comprehensive Plan Map Correction to
clarify the City of urban growth boundary for four properties located at 375 & 475
East Nevada Street. The application asserts that there are differences in the location
between the official paper maps and the current GIS maps in use by both the County and the
City, and that the original scales were such that the line width could significantly alter the
boundary location. The application asks to make clear that the portions of the four properties in
(1.37
question are within the City of urban growth boundary as Residential Reserve
acres of Tax Lot 1000)(2.08 acres of Tax Lots 1100,
and North Mountain Neighborhood Plan
1200 & 1300)
as illustrated on the attached Staff Exhibit S-1.
-judicial procedure may be used for minor map
amendments or corrections. However, in this instance the 1982 Ashland/Jackson County Urban
Growth Boundary requires review and approval of applications to correct errors in
the Comprehensive Plan Map by both the Ashland City Council and Jackson County Board of
Commissioners. As such, the application is being treated as a procedure because it
requires a Council decision. If the City Council approves the current request, the applicant would
then need to make a similar application to Jackson County for consideration by the Board of
Commissioners before either body adopted an ordinance correcting the boundary line.
I. Discussion
The application requests approval of a Minor Comprehensive Plan Map Amendment in the form
of a map correction to clarify the urban growth boundary. The application materials assert that the
record of the exact location of the urban growth boundary line has been inconsistent, and recording
a plat to further urbanize the subject properties within the city limits would leave Jackson County
RR-5 zoned remnant properties outside the Urban Grown Boundary with less than the minimum
required lot area under their county zoning.
Goal 14 of Oregons statewide land use-planning goals deals with Urbanization. In the Oregon
Administrative Rules (OAR), OAR 660-004-0040 discusses the Application of Goal 14 to Rural
Residential Areas. The subject properties here are within the counties Rural Residential zone
(RR-5). With regard to rural lands planned for residential uses such as the properties here, Goal
14 prohibits the urban use of these rural lands, and to that end prevents the creation of new lots or
parcels smaller than the minimum size (which is generally no smaller than two acres in Goal 14,
and specifically five acres here under the Countys RR-5 zoning) without an exception to Goal 14.
Recording a plat to partition or divide the portions of the properties within the city limits would
create new discrete parcels out of the remnant pieces of the properties that lie outside the city limits
and urban growth boundary, triggering the exception. This would be a costly action with the
County and in a pre-application with County staff, they have indicated to the applicant that
approval of such an exception appears extremely unlikely.
There are portions of four tax lots included in the request for clarification of the urban growth
(39 1E 04A Tax Lots: 1100,
boundary. These properties are located at 475 East Nevada Street
1200 & 1300)(39 1E 04A Tax Lot 1000).
and at 375 East Nevada Street In 2017, the Planning
Commission approved a Comprehensive Plan Amendment from Single Family Residential
Reserve to North Mountain Neighborhood Overlay Zoning; a Zone Change from Jackson County
Rural Residential, ½-acre minimum (RR-5) to North Mountain Multi-Family (NM-MF) Zoning
Overlay; Outline Plan and Site Design Review approvals for a 20-lot/23-unit Performance
Planning Action PA-T2-2021-00031 Ashland Planning Division Staff Report (dds)
Applicant: Rogue Planning & Development Services, LLC Page 2 of 13
at 475 East
Nevada Street.
The application materials explain
applicant met with Jackson County staff regarding the split-zoning of the property and the need,
with subdivision of the property, to create discrete lots for the remnant properties outside the urban
growth boundary. The application suggests that at this point, it became apparent that there were
8 and the maps the County used in
implementing their development regulations.
The application concludes that the request is that the portions of tax lots 1100, 1200 & 1300
totaling 2.08 acres at 475 East Nevada Street, and the approximately 1.37 acre area of tax lot 1000
at 375 East Nevada Street which are depicted on the current city maps as being outside the urban
growth boundary instead be included within the City of Ashlandurban growth boundary as it
was drawn in the official 1989 map, explaining that while the present Geographical Information
System (GIS) maps show the properties divided by the City of Ashland urban growth boundary
roughly mid-way between the north and south property lines with the urban growth boundary
following the city limits boundary, the 1989 map is of such a scale that the pen stroke is larger
than the specific location of the UGB on the subject property per the GIS maps. The application
materials emphasize that the issue at hand must be addressed before further action can be taken to
complete the approval and development of the Katherine Mae Subdivision.
II. Analysis
The expansion of the urban growth boundary other than through the correction of a mapping error
would trigger a minor amendment to the Greater Bear Creek Valley Regional Plan. When the
Regional Plan was completed in 2012, the City of Ashland was the only participating city in the
region that chose not to identify urban reserve areas for the future expansion of its urban growth
boundary. Ashland instead committed to accommodating a doubling of the regional population
over the next 50-60 years through more efficient land use within the existing city limits and urban
growth boundary. Should the city now seek to expand its urban growth boundary by not more
than 50 acres, it would require a minor amendment to the Regional Plan be processed by Jackson
County with the City of Ashland as the applicant.
In discussing the application with Department of Land Conservation and Development (DLCD)
staff, they have confirmed that if the application is truly a clarification of the UGB boundary
based on the interpretation of historic documents, it does not constitute a UGB amendment and
can be treated as a correction
The request here is to determine whether the current maps reflect the originally intended placement
of the urban growth boundary, or if the urban growth boundary was incorrectly placed in the
transition from the original paper maps to the currently adopted electronic maps and thus merits
correction.
Minor Map Amendments or Corrections
As detailed in AMC 18.5.9.020.A, minor map amendments or correction may be approved if
in compliance with the Comprehensive Plan and the application demonstrates that one or more of
the following:
Planning Action PA-T2-2021-00031 Ashland Planning Division Staff Report (dds)
Applicant: Rogue Planning & Development Services, LLC Page 3 of 13
1. The change implements a public need, other than the provision of affordable
housing, supported by the Comprehensive Plan.
2. A substantial change in circumstances has occurred since the existing zoning or
Plan designation was proposed, necessitating the need to adjust to the changed
circumstances.
3. Circumstances relating to the general public welfare exist that require such an
action.
4. Proposed increases in residential zoning density resulting from a change from
one zoning district to another zoning district, will provide 25 percent of the
proposed base density as affordable housing consistent with the approval
standards set forth in subsection 18.5.8.050.G.
5. Increases in residential zoning density of four units or greater on commercial,
employment, or industrial zoned lands (i.e., Residential Overlay), will not
negatively impact the commercial and industrial land supply as required in
the Comprehensive Plan, and will provide 25 percent of the proposed base
density as affordable housing consistent with the approval standards set forth in
subsection 18.5.8.050.G.
6. The total number of affordable units described in 18.5.9.020.A, subsections 4 or
5, above, shall be determined by rounding down fractional answers to the nearest
whole unit. A deed restriction, or similar legal instrument, shall be used to
guarantee compliance with affordable criteria for a period of not less than 60
years. 18.5.9.020.A, subsections 4 and 5 do not apply to Council initiated actions.
Determination of Zoning Boundaries
AMC 18.2.1.030 also speaks to the of Zoning and provides that:
Unless otherwise specified, zoning boundaries are lot lines, the centerlines of streets, and railroad
right-of-way, or such lines extended. Where due to the scale, lack of scale, lack of detail or illegibility
of the Zoning Map, or due to any other reason, there is uncertainty, contradiction or conflict as to the
intended location of a zoning boundary, the Staff Advisor or, upon referral, the Planning Commission
or City Council, shall determine the boundary as follows:
A.wźŭŷƷƭΏƚŅΏǞğǤ͵ Boundaries that approximately follow the centerlines of a street,
highway, alley, bridge, railroad, or other right-of-way shall be construed to follow
such centerlines. Whenever any public right-of-way is lawfully vacated, the lands
formerly within the vacated right-of-way shall automatically be subject to the
same zoning designation that is applicable to lands abutting the vacated areas. In
cases where the right-of-way formerly served as a zoning boundary, the vacated
lands within the former right-of-way shall be allocated proportionately to the
abutting zones.
B.tğƩĭĻƌͲ ƌƚƷͲ ƷƩğĭƷ͵ Where a zoning boundary splits a lot into two zones and the
minimum width or depth of a divided area is 20 feet or less, the entire lot shall be
placed in the zone that accounts for the greater area of the lot by the adjustment
of the zoning boundary. Where a zoning boundary splits a lot into two zones and
the minimum width and depth of both divided areas is greater than 20 feet, the
lot shall have split zoning with lot area designated proportionately to each zone.
C.WǒƩźƭķźĭƷźƚƓ ĬƚǒƓķğƩǤ͵ Boundaries indicated as approximately following a City or
County boundary, or the Urban Growth Boundary, shall be construed as following
said boundary.
Planning Action PA-T2-2021-00031 Ashland Planning Division Staff Report (dds)
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D.bğƷǒƩğƌ ŅĻğƷǒƩĻƭ͵ Boundaries indicated as approximately following the
centerlines of a river or stream, a topographic contour, or similar feature not
corresponding to any feature listed in section 18.2.1.030, above, shall be
construed as following such feature.
Ashland/Jackson County Urban Growth Boundary Agreement (UGBA)
In addition to the Ashland Municipal Code (AMC), there is an County Urban
Growth Boundary Agreement which was adopted in 1982. The UGBA sets forth the
mutually adopted urbanization program between the City and Jackson (and) establishes
an Urban Growth Boundary, an Area of Future Urbanization, Areas of Mutual Planning Concern,
joint policies governing the urbanization of lands, and revision and administrative procedures.
The UGBA requires review and approval of applications to correct errors in the Comprehensive
Plan Map by both the Ashland City Council and Jackson County Board of Commissioners as
follows:
/ƚƩƩĻĭƷźƚƓ ƚŅ 9ƩƩƚƩƭ͵ If the City Council or the County Board of Commissioners become
aware of an error in either the map or the text of the mutually adopted urbanization
program, both bodies may cause an immediate amendment to occur to correct the
error, after mutual agreement is reached. Such a correction shall be in the form of a
public hearing and an ordinance, conducted separately or jointly by both bodies, which
may take effect on an emergency basis. Public hearings before the Planning
Commissions shall not be required where an amendment is intended specifically to
correct an error.
Generally, an error is a cartographic mistake or text misprint, omission or duplication.
Such errors are not derived from new data or suggested errors made in interpretations
of the attitudes of the public, the governing bodies or data; the latter error types are
considered under the amendment provisions cited herein.
In discussions with Jackson County staff, they have confirmed that if the city determines an error
has been made and the map requires correction, they would forward the issue to the Board of
Commissioners for a decision, as detailed in the 1982 Urban Growth Boundary Agreement.
For staff, the most applicable criterion in considering a minor map correction is AMC
18.5.9.020.A.2, that A substantial change in circumstances has occurred since the existing zoning
or Plan designation was proposed, necessitating the need to adjust to the changed circumstances.
clear that the transition from the original paper maps to a computer-based Geographic
Information System (GIS) enabled mapping by the city and county to become much more precise
and represented a substantial change, and the key question is whether the more precise mapping
resulted in the incorrect identification of the intended urban growth boundary. The original paper
maps often did not show tax lot boundaries or clearly illustrate how the city limits or urban growth
boundary lines related to one another or to individual properties. As the applicant notes, in some
of the adopted paper maps, the UGB line was drawn with a width which equates to more than 200
feet on the ground, while the current request deals with tax lots that are in some instances only 250
feet in depth. While staff believes that boundary lines including the UGB should follow property
lines wherever possible, as provided in AMC 18.2.1.030, in reviewing the maps provided by the
applicant and other maps in city records, staff are unable to identify any clear error in the placement
of the urban growth boundary lines.
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The Tarp The original working map used in developing the current zoning and Comprehensive Plan
maps is often referred to as as it was created from a large canvas tarp. This is not an officially
adopted map, but has been used as a reference tool for staff when boundary questions arise. Staff
estimates that The Tarp dates to the early- to mid- as it was in use as a reference tool when the
current Community Development Director was hired in the late A photo of The Tarp as it illustrates
the subject properties is shown below - with a red rectangle added by staff to identify the subject
properties:
Figure 1
While The Tarp does not illustrate a clear distinction between the city limits and urban growth boundary
here, it does clearly show the subject tax lots and does not identify Comprehensive Plan map designations
for the portions north of the city limits line shown, suggesting that even from this early date, boundary
lines were located so that they left the portions of the subject properties in question here outside the
boundaries. Based on the scale, the boundary line is shown at just over 150 feet from the north
boundary of the Nevada Street right-of-way.
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1982 Urban Growth Boundary Agreement (UGBA) Map
The city and county adopted an Urban Growth Boundary Agreement in 1982 which included an
Urban Growth Boundary Map as A. A portion of that map depicting the subject
properties is copied below, with a red rectangle added by staff in the general area of the subject
properties:
Figure 2 1982 UGBA Map
This UGBA exhibit map does not identify individual tax lots and is generally lacking in clear detail.
The scale on the map is difficult to read and imprecise, but the city limits and urban growth
boundary lines appear to scale to less than 200 feet north of the north boundary of the Nevada
Street right-of-way. (The current GIS map has this boundary at between 153 feet and 167 feet
north of the right-of-way. If adjusted as the applicant requests, the boundary would be between
250 and 329 feet north of the Nevada Street right-of-way.)
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1982 Comprehensive Plan Map from Urbanization Element (Adopted by Ord. 2227)
A new Comprehensive Plan and Comprehensive Plan map were adopted in 1982 as Ordinance
#2227. The Urbanization element of the Comprehensive Plan included a map illustrating the
urban growth boundary; the portion of this map depicting the subject properties is copied below,
with the general location of the properties, the urban growth boundary and city limits identified
in red:
Figure 3 1982 Urbanization Element Map
This 1982 Comprehensive Plan map does not identify individual tax lots and is generally lacking in
clear detail. The scale on the map is difficult to read and imprecise, and identifying the exact
intended location of the urban growth boundary is complicated by the fact that the width of the
boundary line itself scales to slightly more than 200 feet and obscures the north boundary of the
Nevada Street right-of-way and the city limits line beneath it. The associated Urbanization
element of the Comprehensive Plan does include a narrative description of the urban growth
boundary based on lettered points called out on the map noting, The urban growth boundary
returns to the city limits at point Q. The only other departure of the urban growth boundary (line
from the city limits line) is from point R to point S, where it includes the sewage treatment
plant and a portion of the Bear Creek Greenway. The subject properties are between point S and
the starting point A, suggesting that in this vicinity the city limits line and urban growth boundary
line were one and the same in 1982.
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1982 Adopted Zoning Map
Staff have obtained a digital copy of the original zoning map sent to the state for
acknowledgement in 1982. The portion relevant to the subject properties is illustrated below,
with the general location of the properties in a red rectangle:
Figure 4 Officially-Adopted Zoning Map (1982)
The city limits and urban growth boundary line are one and the same here. Individual tax lots are
not identified, however the boundary line scales as approximately 120 feet north of the north
boundary of the Nevada Street right-of-way.
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1989 Urban Growth Boundary Agreement Map
The application materials provided include a map described as being part of a 1989 Urban Growth
Boundary Agreement. The relevant portion of this map, with the notes in the red box,
is included below.
Figure 5 UGBA Map (1989). hŅŅźĭźğƌͪ
Staff cannot locate an adopted 1989 Urban Growth Boundary Agreement, and as such cannot
confirm that this is an official map. There was an Urban Growth Boundary Agreement update
process initiated in 2001, but it never came to fruition, and both the city and the county are still
currently working under the adopted 1982 Urban Growth Boundary Agreement discussed above,
and are unaware of an adopted 1989 update. While the map provided includes individual tax lots,
the tax lot lines are unclear with regard to the subject properties here, and the map provided does
not include a scale.
Planning Action PA-T2-2021-00031 Ashland Planning Division Staff Report (dds)
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2008 Officially Adopted Comprehensive Plan Map
In 2008, the city adopted new zoning and associated overlay maps in digital format with
Ordinance #2951. These are the current official maps. A portion of the official Comprehensive
Plan map depicting the subject properties is shown below, with a red rectangle added by staff
around the subject properties.
Figure 6 Current Officially-Adopted Comprehensive Plan Map (2008)
In the current officially-adopted maps, the city limits and urban growth boundary lines are one
and the same in this vicinity, similar to the way they were depicted on and described
in the narrative description in the 1982 Element of the Comprehensive Plan. This
currently adopted official GIS map has the boundary lines at between 153 feet and 167 feet north
of the north boundary of the Nevada Street right-of-way, which splits the subject properties
between city and county, leaving remnant portions outside the city and urban growth boundary
under the county jurisdiction.
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III. Procedural
AMC 18.5.9.020.A Minor Map Amendments or Corrections
The Type II procedure is used for applications involving zoning map amendments consistent with the
Comprehensive Plan map, and minor map amendments or corrections. Amendments under this section may
be approved if in compliance with the Comprehensive Plan and the application demonstrates that one or
more of the following.
1. The change implements a public need, other than the provision of affordable housing,
supported by the Comprehensive Plan.
2. A substantial change in circumstances has occurred since the existing zoning or Plan
designation was proposed, necessitating the need to adjust to the changed
circumstances.
3. Circumstances relating to the general public welfare exist that require such an action.
4. Proposed increases in residential zoning density resulting from a change from one
zoning district to another zoning district, will provide 25 percent of the proposed base
density as affordable housing consistent with the approval standards set forth in
subsection 18.5.8.050.G.
5. Increases in residential zoning density of four units or greater on commercial,
employment, or industrial zoned lands (i.e., Residential Overlay), will not negatively
Comprehensive Plan, and will provide 25 percent of the proposed base density as
affordable housing consistent with the approval standards set forth in
subsection 18.5.8.050.G.
6. The total number of affordable units described in 18.5.9.020.A, subsections 4 or 5,
above, shall be determined by rounding down fractional answers to the nearest whole
unit. A deed restriction, or similar legal instrument, shall be used to guarantee
compliance with affordable criteria for a period of not less than 60 years. 18.5.9.020.A,
subsections 4 and 5 do not apply to Council initiated actions.
Ashland/Jackson Urban Growth Boundary Agreement (UGBA)
Section 11.D of the 1982 UGBA between Ashland & Jackson County addresses of
as follows:
Correction of Errors. If the City Council or the County Board of Commissioners become aware of an error
in either the map or the text of the mutually adopted urbanization program, both bodies may cause an
immediate amendment to occur to correct the error, after mutual agreement is reached. Such a correction
shall be in the form of a public hearing and an ordinance, conducted separately or jointly by both bodies,
which may take effect on an emergency basis. Public hearings before the Planning Commissions shall not
be required where an amendment is intended specifically to correct an error.
Generally, an error is a cartographic mistake or text misprint, omission or duplication. Such errors are not
derived from new data or suggested errors made in interpretations of the attitudes of the public, the governing
bodies or data; the latter error types are considered under the amendment provisions cited herein.
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IV. Conclusions and Recommendations
Staff believes that the boundary lines would have been much better placed to follow property lines,
and staff is equally frustrated that the size of resulting remnant properties in the county prevents
further urbanization of these properties, however in reviewing the application materials and
associated maps, staff have been unable to identify any clear error in the urban growth boundary
current placement that suggests it was placed differently than was originally intended and
needs to be corrected. While each of the various maps pose some challenges in terms of clarity,
scale and the identification of individual tax lot lines relative to the boundary line locations, all of
them are generally consistent in depicting a straight urban growth boundary line in the same
location as the city limits line as was described in the Comprehensive Plan narrative in 1982
when the boundary was established - rather than having the boundary follow property lines. As
such, staff are unable to say that a correction is merited here.
Planning Action PA-T2-2021-00031 Ashland Planning Division Staff Report (dds)
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Received 3.15.2021
ROGUE PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT SERVICES, LLC
Minor Comprehensive Plan Map Amendment
375 East Nevada Street
475 East Nevada Street
ROGUE PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT SERVICES, LLC
Received 3.15.2021
Comprehensive Plan Map Amendment
Subject Property
Property Address: 475 EAST NEVADA STREET
Map & Tax Lots: 39 1E 04A Tax Lots: 1100, 1200; 1300
Property Owner: Young Family Trust
348 South Modoc Street
Medford, OR 97504
Property Address: 375 EAST NEVADA STREET
Map & Tax Lot: 39 1E 04A Tax Lot: 1000
Property Owner: Peter and Laura Schultz
375 E Nevada Street
Ashland, OR 97520
Surveyor:Hoffbuhr & Associates
880 Golf View Drive; Suite 201
Medford, OR 97540
Planning Consultant: Rogue Planning & Development Services, LLC
Amy Gunter
1314-B Center Dr., PMB#457
Medford, OR 97501
Comprehensive
Plan Designation: Single Family Residential Reserve
Zoning: SPLIT: City of Ashland RR-.5
Jackson County Rural Residential (RR-5)
Adjacent Zones: NM-R-1.5; NM-MF; Rural Residential (RR-.5); Jackson
County RR-5; and Jackson County Exclusive Farm Use (EFU)
Findings of Fact
March 5, 2021
Request for Modification of Comprehensive Plan Map
Page 1 of 12
Received 3.15.2021
Request:
The application requests approval for a City of Ashland Comprehensive Plan Amendment from Jackson
County Rural Residential to Ashland Residential Reserve/North Mountain Neighborhood Plan.
It can be found that the record of the exact location of the Urban Growth Boundary line has been
inconsistentand leavesJackson County RR-5 zoned remnant parcels of landthat necessitate Goal 14
exceptions due to the limited lot area of the legal parcels of record of the areas north of and outside of
the city of Ashland Urban Growth Boundary.
There are portions of four parcels of record included in the request for clarification of theUrban
Growth Boundary. The properties are 475 East Nevada Street (39 1E 04A Tax Lots: 1100, 1200; 1300)
and 375 East Nevada Street (39 1E 04A Tax Lot: 1000).
In 2017, the Katherine Mae Subdivision obtained Comprehensive Plan Amendment from Single Family
Residential Reserve to North Mountain Neighborhood Overlay Zoning, a Zone Change from Jackson
County Rural Residential, ½ Acre minimum (RR-.5-P), to North Mountain Multi-Family (NM-MF) Zoning
Overlay; Outline Plan and Site Design Review approval for a Performance Standards Subdivision to allow
for the future development of a phased subdivision in 2017.
At the time of the subdivision request, it was believed that the property was divided by the city of
Ashland Urban Growth Boundary (UGB) that is shown on the 2008 adopted maps from the city of Ashland
as roughly half-way between the north and south property lines. Following discussions and meetings
with Jackson County regarding the “split zoning” of the property and the need to create separate and
discrete parcels of recordnorth of the UGB that areseparate from the property on the south side of the
UGB.
Following inquiries at the County, it became apparent that there is question to the adopted maps on file
with the city of Ashland and dated July 2008 and the maps that Jackson County uses in the
implementation of their development regulations. In the research of this issue, the ability to readily
manipulate the boundary lines presently when mapped by the Geographic Information Services (GIS)
mapping software versus the lines drawn on the adopted Comprehensive Plan Mapsbecame more
apparent.
The property owner and the project team find that there is an important issue at hand that must be
addressed before further action can be taken concerning the Final Planning of the adjacent Katherine
Mae Subdivision.
According to the present Geographical Information Systems (GIS) drawn maps, theproperties are
divided by the City of Ashland Urban Growth Boundary (UGB) roughly mid-way between the north and
south property lines. The UGB is shown following the city limits boundary. The official map is dated 1989
Findings of Fact
March 5, 2021
Request for Modification of Comprehensive Plan Map
Page 2 of 12
Received 3.15.2021
and is of such a scale that the pen stroke is larger than the specific location of the UGB on the subject
property per the GIS maps.
The request is for the 2.08-acre portions of 1100, 1200 & portions of 1300, and an approximately 1.37-
acrearea of 375 East Nevada Street that is on the north side of the GIS drawn line to be included into
the City of Ashland Urban Growth Boundary as drawn upon the 1989 official maps.
Property Descriptions:
The properties proposed for proposal consists of four properties, tax lots #1000, 1100, 1200, and 1300.
The properties are on the north side of East Nevada Street west of the intersection of East Nevada Street,
and an unimproved, remnant portion of the North Mountain Avenue right-of-way.
The subject properties are Comprehensive Plan designated as
Single-Family Residential Reserve. Tax lots 1100, 1200, and
1300 have been rezoned to North Mountain Multi-Family
Residential.
Tax lot 1000 is a city of Ashland RR-.5 and Jackson County RR-5
zoning.
The properties are all within the Performance Standards Overlay.
North of the Urban Growth Boundary (UGB) and the City limits
boundaries, the properties are Jackson County Rural Residential, Five Acre Minimum (RR-5).
Tax lot #1200 is occupied by a 1,785-square foot single-story, single-family residence that was
constructed in 1954. There is a detached garage on the county side of the property. Another outbuilding
exists behind the residence. Tax lots #1100 and 1300 are vacant.
The properties to the east and west are also split by UGB and split zoned by Ashland RR-.5 and Jackson
County RR-5. The property to the east is too small and constrained to be considered.
Findings of Fact
March 5, 2021
Request for Modification of Comprehensive Plan Map
Page 3 of 12
Received 3.15.2021
The property to the west at 375 East Nevada (39S 1E is included in the proposalat the recommendation
of the City of Ashland. This property is occupied by a single-family residence and associated outbuildings.
The property to the north at 1059 North Mountain Avenue (39S 1E 04A; 201) is zoned Jackson County
RR-5. This lot is occupied by a vacant mobile home. This lot is zoned Rural Residential, five-acre minimum,
and is more than five acres in area.
The property at 1260 Oak Street (39S 1E 04A; 300) is to the north of 375 East Nevada Street. This property
is zoned Exclusive Farm Use and is 21.97 acres.
Across the North Mountain Avenue overpass to the southeast, the properties are zoned Healthcare (HC).
These properties are part of the Skylark Assisted Living Facility and Mountain Meadows Retirement
community.
The properties to the south, across East Nevada Street, are within the North Mountain Neighborhood
Plan Overlay. There are North Mountain Single Family (NM-R-1-5); North Mountain Commercial (NM-C);
and North Mountain Multi-Family (NM-MF) zones within the North Mountain Neighborhood Plan
Overlay.
The four parcels included in the request are bound by East Nevada Street along the south property lines.
According to the street classification in the Transportation System Plan (TSP), East Nevada Street is an
Avenue or Major Collector. East Nevada would be considered a two-lane avenue. Avenues have a right-
of-way width of between 59 – 86 feet. There is generally, 60-feet of ROW along the frontage of the
properties. In the area of steep, rocky slopes between the subject property and the driving surface of
East Nevada Street, there is more than 120-feet of ROW. East Nevada Street is not improved to Avenue
Standards. Due to the topographical constraints within the ROW, East Nevada Street is narrow,
constrained by the development to the south, and by the rock outcropping on the north side. East
Nevada has a varying width of improvements.
Along the frontage of the properties, East Nevada Street is improved with pavement, curb, and gutter.
There is a 22-foot paved travel lane, curb, and gutter. On the south side of East Nevada Street, there are
various street improvements within the varying width ROW. Across from 475 East Nevada, there is curb
and gutter, no sidewalk. This property is “under-developed”, and street improvements will be required
with future site development. West of the intersection of Camelot Drive and East Nevada Street, the
street improvements include 22- feet of driving surface, with curb, gutter, varying width park row, and
sidewalk. These improvements continue down the hill to the intersection of Camelot and Kestrel
Parkway. None of East Nevada Street has dedicated bicycle lanes.
The right-of-way that forms the east boundary of the property is North Mountain Avenue because it falls
within a remnant of the North Mountain Avenue right-of-way, but the actual surface street North
Findings of Fact
March 5, 2021
Request for Modification of Comprehensive Plan Map
Page 4 of 12
Received 3.15.2021
Mountain is above the property and transitions from surface street to bridge over the Interstate. The
“street” is not improved more than the narrow gravel driveway that serves the five-acre parcel to the
north of the subject properties. This new street is approved to be named Franklin Street.
Details of the Request:
The request is to acknowledge the adopted 1989 Urban Growth Boundary Map and that the north side
of the pen stroke (the north property lines of the properties at 375 E Nevada Street and 475 E Nevada
Street) is the location of the UGB.
Discussions regarding the property boundaries of the Katherine Mae subdivision began in earnest with
Jackson County and the City of Ashland in early 2016. At the time of the Subdivision application to the
City, Jackson County had indicated that the Urban Growth Boundary Line was a defacto property line
due to jurisdictional overlap.
The County found they could not approve a partition of the “non-conforming” parcels that are north of
the presently mapped GIS database for a few reasons.
1) All of the subject parcels that are divided by the GIS version of the UGB are zonedJackson County
Rural Residential (RR-5) lots. Torevise thelegal description of the properties north of the UGB, a partition
application in Jackson County is required. The resulting lot areas of the separate parcels to the north of
the UGB are substantially less than the minimum lot size in the RR-5 zone.
2) Rural Residential lands that are outside of the UGB and are less than the minimum lot area of two
acres, requires a Goal 14 Exception. The property is unique from what appears to be assumed with
Goal 14 review, that future division of existing parcels to create lots that are less than the minimum lot
area cannot be approved. This property consists of three, discreet parcels that exist with the UGB
creating the boundary division.
Allowing the land to be urbanizeable to the standards of the City of Ashland prevents the application of
Goal 14 to the rural residential land.
Oregon Administrative Rules: 660-004-0040
Application of Goal 14 to Rural Residential Areas
(1) The purpose of this rule is to specify how Goal 14 “Urbanization” applies to rural lands
in acknowledged exception areas planned for residential uses.
(2) For purposes of this rule, the definitions in ORS 197.015, the Statewide Planning Goals,
and OAR 660-004-0005 shall apply. Also, the following definitions shall apply:
(f) “Rural residential areas” means lands that are not within an urban growth
boundary, that are planned and zoned primarily for residential uses, and for which
Findings of Fact
March 5, 2021
Request for Modification of Comprehensive Plan Map
Page 5 of 12
Received 3.15.2021
an exception to Goal 3 “Agricultural Lands”, Goal 4 “Forest Lands”, or both has
been taken.
5) The rural residential areas described in subsection (2)(f) of this rule are “rural lands”.
Division and development of such lands are subject to Goal 14, which prohibits urban use
of rural lands.
(6)
(a) A rural residential zone in effect on October 4, 2000, shall be deemed to comply
with Goal 14 if that zone requires any new lot or parcel to have an area of at least
two acres, except as required by section (8) of this rule.
(b) A rural residential zone does not comply with Goal 14 if that zone allows the
creation of any new lots or parcels smaller than two acres. For such a zone, a local
government must either amend the zone's minimum lot and parcel size provisions
to require a minimum of at least two acres or take an exception to Goal 14. Until
a local government amends its land-use regulations to comply with this subsection,
any new lot or parcel created in such a zone must have an area of at least two
acres.
(7) After October 4, 2000, a local government's requirements for the minimum lot or parcel
sizes in rural residential areas shall not be amended to allow a smaller minimum for any
individual lot or parcel without taking an exception to Goal 14 pursuant to OAR chapter
660, division 14, and applicable requirements of this division.
(8)(a) The creation of any new lot or parcel smaller than two acres in a rural residential
area shall be considered an urban use. Such a lot or parcel may be created only if an
exception to Goal 14 is taken. This subsection shall not be construed to imply that the
creation of new lots or parcels two acres or larger always complies with Goal 14. The
question of whether the creation of such lots or parcels complies with Goal 14 depends
upon compliance with all provisions of this rule.
To facilitate orderly development as envisioned in the adopted Comprehensive Plan and to retain
consistency with the adopted Comprehensive Plan adopted maps and plans, recognizing the adopted
UGB “line” extends to the north property boundary of the parcels in question eliminates the dividing line
that created Goal 14 exception land outside of the UGB.
The benefits of acknowledging the north property line as the UGB provides many benefits to the City of
Ashland. The additional 3.45 acres has the potential base density of 41 dwelling units. The property is
Findings of Fact
March 5, 2021
Request for Modification of Comprehensive Plan Map
Page 6 of 12
Received 3.15.2021
directly adjacent to the city limits and the areahas had various mapping that leads one to believe the
boundary is not officially mapped and clarification is sought.
This request does not include site design review of any of the future residences on the properties as they
would be developed at a later date, following the annexation of the area in question.
On the following pages, findings of fact addressing the criteria from the Ashland Municipal Code are
provided. For clarity, the criteria are infont and the applicant’s responses are in
Times New Roman
Calibri font.
Findings of Fact
March 5, 2021
Request for Modification of Comprehensive Plan Map
Page 7 of 12
Received 3.15.2021
Findings of Fact
Comprehensive Plan Map Amendment and Zone Change:
18.5.9.020 Applicability and Review Procedure
Applications for Plan Amendments and Zone Changes are as follows:
A. Type II. The Type II procedure is used for applications involving zoning map amendments
consistent with the Comprehensive Plan map, and minor map amendments or corrections.
Amendments under this section may be approved if in compliance with the Comprehensive Plan
and the application demonstrates that one or more of the following.
Applicant’s Finding:
According to the 1982-024 Jackson County and Ashland Urban Growth Boundary Agreement, Minor
Boundary Line Agreements, are minor adjustments to the UGB that are defined as focusing on individual
properties and not having a significant impact beyond the immediate area of the change. In 2004, the
Jackson County Land Development Ordinance adopted a process for correcting minor mapping errors.
The Jackson County criteria regarding minor amendments are similar to the Ashland Municipal Code
requirements and an application for amendment is necessary at the county level following the decision
at the City of Ashland.
1. The change implements a public need, other than the provision of affordable housing, supported
by the Comprehensive Plan.
Applicant’s Finding:
The change implements the public need for the additional land area adjacent to the existing
developable land area that allows for diverse housing stock.
The requested change is consistent with the State of Oregon Legislative goals and is in line with a
recent effort by the Department of Land Conservation and Development pilot program for minor
UGB amendments though a state-assisted process, Ashland was not part of the project area but
qualified if it had sought the program.
The proposal implements Statewide PlanningGoal 14: Urbanization, to provide for an orderly and
efficient transition from rural to urban land use, to accommodate urban population and urban
employment inside urban growth boundaries, to ensure efficient use of land, and to provide for
livable communities.If undersized, substantially smaller than minimum five-acre portions of RR-
5 zoned land remaining, it is an inefficient use of level, buildable, connected land that is best suited
for urbanization instead of remnant rural residential lands.
The addition of connected, owned in common properties to the Urban Growth Boundary furthers
Comprehensive Plan Goal 6.10. Which seeks to ensure a variety of dwelling types and provide
housing opportunities for the total cross-section ofAshland’s population, consistent with
Findings of Fact
March 5, 2021
Request for Modification of Comprehensive Plan Map
Page 8 of 12
Received 3.15.2021
preserving the character and appearance of the city. The development standards of the North
Mountain Overlay (anticipated with future rezoning and development of these portions of the
properties) ensure the character and appearance of the city are maintained. The North Mountain
Overlay allows for single-family attached and detached, clustered, and multi-family style
development patterns. This is consistent with the character and appearance of the city.
The proposal is consistent with Comprehensive Plan Policy 6.11 as it relates to growth form, City
policy should encourage the development of vacant available lots within the urban area while
providing sufficient new land to avoid an undue increase in land prices. This shall be accomplished
with specific annexation policies.Allowing portions of existing parcels that are in the same
immediate vicinity, served by the same public streets, adjacent to the same freeway, restricted to
the same solar orientation standards, lot coverage, stormwater drainage, parking, open space
requirements, heights, orientation, scale, etc. as the properties to the east as part of the Mountain
Meadows development including Skylark Place, and the other developments within the North
Mountain Neighborhood to the south, and southwest is an inefficient use of land that allows for
additional housing area to meet Ashland’s housing needs.
The proposal furthers the Energy, Air, and Water Conservation goals and policies of the
Comprehensive Plan Goals, Chapter 11. The proposal adds land that is physically connected to the
city limits. The land has access to city electricity, sanitary sewer, stormwater drainage, and water.
The site has excellent solar orientation and solar electric generating systems would be possible.
1059 N Mountain Avenue (39 1E 04; 200) though outside of the city limits and UGB has city water
service.
The city shall strive, in every appropriate way, to reduce energy consumption within the
community. The Council's goals include leveraging the city resources to provide additional lands
for housing development. Allowing for a small area of land to be included within the UGB to allow
for future urbanization demonstrates the city's efforts to increase the developable area to
increase housing stock.
The proposal furthers the goals outlined in Chapter 12, Urbanization which seeks to maintain a
compact urban form and include an adequate supply of vacant land to not hinder natural market
forces and ensure orderly and sequential development of the land in the city limits.
2. A substantial change in circumstances has occurred since the existing zoning or Plan designation
was proposed, necessitating the need to adjust to the changed circumstances.
Applicant’s Finding:
The state regulations imposing Goal 14 exceptions when a parcel area of Rural Residential land is
smaller than the minimum lot area was adopted in 2000.
The city limits were adopted pre-1900. The urban growth boundary was adopted in the early
1980s, the North Mountain Neighborhood Plan was adopted in 1997. The subject properties were
Findings of Fact
March 5, 2021
Request for Modification of Comprehensive Plan Map
Page 9 of 12
Received 3.15.2021
part of the large area of underdeveloped land on the north side of Bear Creek, accessedonly by a
gravel-surfaced, North Mountain Avenue. Between 1997 and today, major public and private
expenditures were made to bring paved streets, sewer, and water to this area.
The current property owners understand the great value in working with the City and providing
additional developable land consistent with the adjacent property zones and development
patterns allowing for furthering the Comprehensive Plan concerning urbanization.
The various Comprehensive Plan Maps lead one to speculate that there is a discrepancy between
the paper maps adopted in the 1970s and 1980s and the 2000s changes to the state laws
regarding Goal 14 exceptions for RR-5 zoned land that is smaller than minimum lot areas, is a
substantial change that necessitates the requested modified Urban Growth Boundary to create
remnant parcels that cannot be developed or are area deficient and requires an exception to state
regulations of rural residential lands.
3. Circumstances relating to the general public welfare exist that require such an action.
Applicant’s Finding:
N/A
4. Proposed increases in residential zoning density resulting from a change from one zoning district
to another zoning district, will provide 25 percent of the proposed base density as affordable
housing consistent with the approval standards set forth in subsection 18.5.8.050.G.
Applicant’s Finding:
The area of the 475 E Nevada Street parcels is 2.08 acres. Of this, approximately 11,300 square
feet (.259 acres) of tax lot 1200 has slopes of 35 percent or greater. The remaining 1.82 acres has
a base density of 21.85 dwelling units. When these properties are annexed, five (21.85 X .25 =
5.46) affordable housing units would be provided when the portion of the property in question is
annexed and developed.
The area of 375 E Nevada Street that is north of the city limits line is 2.34 acres. Of these 2.34
acres, 5,200 square feet is the floodway of Bear Creek and 25,860 square feet is FEMA's 100-year,
special flood hazard area. The area of the property outside of the floodplain and floodway is 1.63
acres and the base density is 19.66. When this property is annexed, four (1.63 X .25 = 4.91)
affordable housing units would be provided when the portion of the property in question is
annexed and developed.
Adequate numbers of affordable housing units that comply with the standards of subsection
ALUO 18.5.8.050.G. will be provided when the subject properties are annexed into the city.
Findings of Fact
March 5, 2021
Request for Modification of Comprehensive Plan Map
Page 10 of 12
Received 3.15.2021
5. Increases in residential zoning density of four units or greater on commercial, employment, or
industrial zoned lands (i.e., Residential Overlay), will not negatively impact the City's commercial
and industrial land supply as required in the Comprehensive Plan and will provide 25 percent of
the proposed base density as affordable housing consistent with the approval standards outlined in
subsection 18.5.8.050.G.
Applicant’s Finding:
N/A
6. The total number of affordable units described in 18.5.9.020.A, subsections 4 or 5, above, shall
be determined by rounding down fractional answers to the nearest whole unit. A deed restriction,
or similar legal instrument, shall be used to guarantee compliancewith affordable criteria for a
period of not less than 60 years. 18.5.9.020.A, subsections 4 and 5 do not apply to Council initiated
actions.
Applicant’s Finding:
The total number of affordable housing units varies depending upon the future uses and the level
of AMI restriction. The future development of the subject properties will demonstrate compliance
at the time with the required number of affordable housing units as required per ALUO
18.5.9.202.A.
The property owner and the applicant find that to facilitate orderly development as envisioned in the
adopted Comprehensive Plan and to retain consistency with the adopted Comprehensive Plan adopted
maps and plans, recognizing the adopted UGB “line” extends to the north property boundary of the
parcels in question eliminates the dividing linethat created Goal 14 exception land outside of the UGB.
The benefits of acknowledging the north property line as the UGB provides many benefits to the City of
Ashland. The additional 3.45 acres has the potential base density of 41 dwelling units. The property is
directly adjacent to the city limits and the area has had various mapping that leads one to believe the
boundary is not officially mapped and clarification is sought.
This request does not include site design review of any of the future residences on the properties as they
would be developed at a later date, following the annexation of the area in question.
Respectfully submitted,
Amy Gunter
Attachments:
Snip of Ashland Acres SubdivisionPlat Map (1923)
Draft UGB map (1” = 4000’ dated 2/22/1979)
Findings of Fact
March 5, 2021
Request for Modification of Comprehensive Plan Map
Page 11 of 12
Received 3.15.2021
Draft UGB map (1” = 2000’ dated 2/22/1979)
Adopted UGB map (dated 11/2/1982)
UGB Map from 1989 UGB Agreement (dated 7/1989)
Official Map of City of Ashland (dated 2004)
Jackson County Development Services map of the property
(dated 12/14/2018 and 1/23/2019)
Jackson County Pre-application Conference Summary
Letter from Attorney Brett Hall (dated June 7, 2020)
Findings of Fact
March 5, 2021
Request for Modification of Comprehensive Plan Map
Page 12 of 12
Received 3.15.2021
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Development
Services
Charles Bennett
Planner III
10 South Oakdale Avenue, Room
100
Medford, OR 97501-2902
Phone: (541)774-6115
Fax: (541)774-6791
bennetch@jacksoncounty.org
Pre-Application Conference
Summary Report
File: 439-18-00012-PRE(PA-NON)
\[This is nota Land Use Decision and is for Informational Purposes Only.\]
1) GENERAL INFORMATION:
LegalDescription
: Township 39, Range 1E, Section 04A, Tax Lot1100&1200 & 1300
Location:
The property is located at 475 East NevadaStreet.
Property Owner:
Young Family Trust
Meeting Time:
A meeting was held on Friday,December 21, 2018, at 2:00 PM.
Agent:
Amy Gunter, Rogue Planning & Development Services LLC
Staff:
Charles Bennett & Craig Anderson
Proposal:
The property owner wants clarification on location of the Urban Growth
Boundary.
Acreage:
2.08 acres
Zoning:
The property ispartially within the City of Ashland and partially in the County
zoned Rural Residential-5 (RR-5).
2) DISCUSSION:
Staff and the applicants discussed the location of the Urban Growth Boundary based
on review of current mapping (GIS) and historic maps. GIS maps are not official maps. The official map
is dated 1989 and is of such a scale that the pen stroke is larger than the specific location of the UGB
on the subject property. Most of the historic maps indicate that the UGB is a straight line that
corresponds with Ashland City limits. The UGB also appears to be consistently approximately 1320’
from the Section line to the northin this area. A previous version of the GIS mapping had the UGB
following the subject taxlotsjust north of the Ashland City limits which appears to be the least consistent
with official historic maps. GIS mapping currently indicates the UGB to be a straight line along the city
limits.
Jackson County File #439-18-00012-PREPage 1
Received 3.15.2021
3) REQUIRED APPLICATIONS:
The Ashland/Jackson County Urban Growth Boundary Agreement and
the 2004 Land Development Ordinance (LDO) provide for the process to correct minor mapping errors.
The applicants first need to obtain Ashland City Council acknowledgement of the error and then file for
a Type IV Zone Map Amendment ($7,078)addressing the map error procedureand criteria whichthen
would go to the Board of Commissioners for final review(skipping the Planning Commission per
procedure). The applicants couldalsoapply for a Type II or Type III partition along the UGB line(Section
10.2.3). The applicants may also apply for a Type IV application for a Goal 14 Exception to expand the
UGB to includethe entire subject tax lots, but approval appears extremely unlikely.
4)CONCLUSION / DISCLAIMER:
Notice:
There was no public notification of this PRE-APPLICATION proposal (This is not an
application. It is a pre-application.)
Information:
This report is for informational purposes onlyand represents the Planning Departments
best understanding of the applicant’s request at this time. No guarantees have been given in this pre-
application as to whether or not the application will be approved or denied. The burden of proof rests
solely with the applicant to provide the necessary information to approve such a request based upon
the applicable standards and criteria of the County Land Development Ordinance.
If you have any questions feel free to give me a call at 774-6115.
Sincerely,
Charles Bennett
Planner III
Date: 1/25/19
Attachments: Copies of Maps, UGBA, Section 5.1.4 of LDO
Jackson County File #439-18-00012-PREPage 2
Received 3.15.2021
June 7, 2020
Planning Division, City of Ashland
20 East Main Street
51 Winburn Way
Ashland, OR 97520
Dear City of Ashland:
I represent the Young Family Trust. The Young Family Trust owns Tax Lots 1100, 1200 & 1300
in Township 39 Range 1E, Section 04A; the street address is 475 East Nevada Street. There is
currently an approved Planning Action 2017-02129 in place for development of this property
into a 20 lot, 23-unit subdivision, with associated proposed Comprehensive Plan designation
changes. The planned development is consistent with the goals of the City of Ashland and
Oregon land use law, and will benefit the City of Ashland. It will provide additional housing for
the City’s residents, and will include low income housing. The purpose of this letter is to request
a formal interpretation pursuant to Ashland Municipal Code § 18.1.5.020 et seq., of the Urban
Growth Boundary (UGB) line along these three tax lots.
There is currently a question as to the location of the UGB along the north side of these three tax
lots. The City has previously taken the position that the UGB follows the City limits boundary,
which is approximately 100 feet south of the northern most property line of each lot. This
position appears to be based on a visual interpretation of a thick marker line on the latest
Comprehensive Plan map, and a GIS map adopted by City Council. It is our understanding that
this position is also inconsistent with previous maps and agreements as jointly adopted and
agreed to by Jackson County and the City, such as the Ashland/Jackson County Urban Growth
Boundary Agreement dated May 20, 1982. See Attachment 1, Ashland/Jackson County Urban
Growth Boundary Agreement. See also, Attachment 2, Excerpt from 1982 Comprehensive Plan;
Chapter 12: Urbanization (Comprehensive Plan Map Pg. 9), adopted November 2, 1982, ORD
2227. It is also inconsistent with the Jackson County Planning Office’s interpretation in
December 2018. See Attachment 3, Pre-application Conference Request, Katherine Mae
Subdivision at p. 2. See also Attachment 4, 1982 map received from Jackson County. And
finally, maps based on GIS mapping and not physical surveys, such as the one adopted by the
City of Ashland, are necessarily imprecise by virtue of the imprecise method in which they are
created, as opposed to maps from actual surveys which can and did serve as the legal basis of the
1982 agreement between Jackson County and Ashland.For these reasons the exact location of
the UGB with respect to these properties is unclear.
In addition, the City’s position would result in that land being subject to County jurisdiction, and
we understand a Goal 14 Exception is not feasible. (ORS-660-004-040 Application of Goal 14 to
Rural Residential Areas). If, on the other hand, that land is within the UGB then the property
could be annexed, brought into the development and provide additional housing for the City of
Ashland and its citizens.
1
Received 3.15.2021
Accordingly, pursuant to Ashland Municipal Code § 18.1.5.020 et seq., we request a formal
interpretation of the exact location of the City of Ashland Urban Growth Boundary
\[Comprehensive Plan, Chapter 12; Urbanization: Adopted November 2, 1982. ORD 2227\] along
Tax Lots 1100, 1200 & 1300 in Township 39 Range 1E, Section 04A, and to determine whether
the adopted line from the aforementioned map has a width of along the adopted city limits
boundary, which would be the south edge of mapped line, or along the north property line
boundary of the subject property, which would be the north edge of mapped line.
Again, we believe the map from with the 1982 boundary agreement with the County is the
accurate map and is not based on GIS interpretation which is generally not a precise form of
map. Please contact me if you have any questions. In the meantime, we look forward to the
City’s formal interpretation.
Best regards,
Brent H. Hall
Attachments:
Attachment 1: Ashland/Jackson County Urban Growth Boundary Agreement.
Attachment 2: 1982 Comprehensive Plan Chapter 12: Urbanization (Comprehensive Plan Map p.
9). Adopted November 2, 1982. ORD 2227
Attachment 3: Pre-Application Conference Request, Katherine Mae Subdivision
Attachment 4: 1982 Map received from Jackson County
cc: Oregon Department of Land Conservation and Development
Amy Gunter, Rogue Planning and Development Services
Client
2
Received 3.15.2021