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1988.01.18_TC_Minutes_Special TOWN OF HIGHLAND BEACH, FLORIDA • TOWN COMMISSION MINUTES OF SPECIAL MEETING Monday, January 18, 1988 10:00 A.M. A Special Meeting of the Town Commission was called to order by Mayor Betty Jean Stewart at 10:00 a.m. in the Town Commission Chambers at Town Hall. Also present were. Vice Mayor Blosser and Commissioners John J. Basso, David T. Robinson, and Robert F. Scholz. Also present were Town Attorney Thomas E. Sliney, Acting Town Manager Mary Ann Mariano, Building Official Bruce Sutherland, Deputy Town Clerk Elizabeth L. Ko1ek, and members of the general public. Mayor Stewart stated that the purpose of the Special Meeting was to hear a presentation by Philip Colman regarding Lot 101-West, known as Villa Costa. Mr. Colman addressed the Town Commission and introduced his staff as follows: Paul Twitty, Schwab and Twitty, Architects Scott Brown, Team Plus, Landscape Architects • Arnold Chain, Chain, Inc. (Engineering firm) Mike Everett, Project Manager of Concordia Investments, Inc. Mr. Colman asked Mr. Twitty to approach the Town Commission and to review the overall plan for Lot 101-West. Mr. Twitty addressed the architectural delineation of the building, being 36 units on the West side of A-1-A. Mr. Twitty noted the landscaping in the foreground, the motor court and entrance, the main parking tower, noting that the landscaping would be provided in an oriental theme. Mr. Twitty stated that the main tower of the building would be 80 feet high from the crown of the road. Mr. Twitty showed the relationship of the building to A-1-A and the Intracoastal Waterway and noted that existing vegetation to the West portion of the property would remain as is. The entrance level would be a level of parking underneath the main tower building. The next level would be a recreation and social area, which incorporates a pool deck and additional tenant storage. Typical floors above the recreation deck will consist of 5 apartments per floor, ranging in area from 1600 square feet to 2300 square feet apartments. All apartments will have wrap around balconies. No cooling towers will be located on top of the building as all compressors will be located on the roof below the line of the parapet. Mr. Twitty stressed that the building was designed esthetically the same on all four sides to have a homogenous feeling from any viewpoint. Scott Brown, landscape architect, then addressed the Commission, noting the overall character of the landscaping being created in a Japanese type garden with a water feature which will use rock outcroppings in Town Commission Special Meeting - Minutes • January 18, 1988 Page 2 of order to give the illusion of a larger water feature. The use of dry river beds will promote a reduction in evaporation loss and will provide for less irrigated areas. Japanese lanterns and a Japanese stype gazebo will be utilized in the front landscaping to give a peaceful and serene character to that area of the building. Decorative pavement will be used in the entrance areas of the building. Trees of 25-3f6 feet will be placed in the front area of the building immediately after construction as buffers and will terminate all views into the project. Service areas will be screened with landscaping. Australian pines will be removed from the site. Mr. Brown indicated the removal of the Australian pines will alleviate their detrimental effect on the mangroves and would bring back the ecosystems which promote healthy mangrove areas. Commissioner Basso requested clarification as to what sort of wall will be used to keep the water from the mangroves from coming onto the property. Mr. Chain, engineer, explained that the wall of the project would be a parking garage wall and would be solid and keep any water from coming further onto the property. Commissioner Scholz asked how the West portion between the building and the existing mangroves would be utilized. Mr. Twitty noted that • controlled planting would be provided to a certain point and would flow into a natural state. Vice Mayor Blosser requested information on the side setbacks and what provisions had been made for storm water runoff. Mr. Twitty noted that on-site water retention would be addressed and would comply with all Codes. Mr. Twitty further stated that this phase of planning is provided once structural drawings are drawn. Substantial discussion took place regarding side setbacks as provided on Lot 14J1-West. As drawn, the setbacks provided the amount of 17 feet per side. Section 4.6(8) of the Town Code provides for 2(d foot setbacks. Mr. Colman took exception to this discrepancy in that he felt he had complied with the requirements as set out the Code Book he had been referring to. Mr. Colman further stated that in the review of this matter by the Building Official, no question ever arose as to the side setbacks on this property. During this discussion, it was noted that Mr. Sutherland had been utilizing his Zoning Code and had failed to update the Code with the most current supplement. Commissioner Robinson requested clarification on the material to be used for the surface of the parking area. Mr. Twitty indicated that concrete pavers in specific patterns would be used. The pavers would be placed on a compacted sand bed which will be above a shell rock base. Mr. Colman noted his experience with Villa Nova in that he had used this system for approximately one year and that no settling • problems had occurred nor had any drainage problems occurred. Town Commission Special Meeting - Minutes January 18, 1988 • Page 3 of Mr. Colman noted that his material is more costly but lasts longer than asphalt. Commissioner Robinson then asked if fencing would be placed around the pool area, noting that in some condominiums fencing was a requirement before the issuance of insurance. Mr. Twitty noted that fencing would not be placed directly around the pool in that the pool is on the second level. It was noted that the same railings would be placed around the recreation level as would be provided for in the remainder of the tower. Commissioner Robinson also questioned any plans for the West area of the property. Mr. Twitty noted that no additional landscaping, boat docks, or walkways are planned. Mr. Twitty noted that the parapet would be approximately 42 inches in height and the elevator tower would be approximately 14 feet above the roof, which is allowable under the present Code. Mr. Colman interjected that the purpose for the parapet is strictly for esthetic reasons in that it screens utility equipment. Commissioner Basso asked whether a fire truck could access the rear of the building. Mr. Twitty noted that access to the rear of a building has not been a requirement in the past. It is presently required to be able to have a fire truck enter and leave the site at the face of the building. Once structural drawings are complete, the Fire Department will be requested to review the project for compliance. Answering Commissioner Robinson as to the depth of the reflecting pool, Mr. Brown indicated that the maximum depth would be 18 inches. Mayor Stewart asked for Mr. Brown's qualifications. Mr. Brown indicated he was a landscape architect, having obtained his degree from the University of Florida. Mayor Stewart further stated that adequate information as to Mr. Brown's qualifications or his location of business did not appear on his letterhead. It was noted that buffer strips on the North and South sides of the building would be planted, except for the service drive, at a length of approximately 167 feet per side. The length of the landscaping to be used at the front of the building was estimated at between 140 to 150 feet by Mr. Twitty. Discussion again turned to drainage on the property, including drainage on top of the building itself. Mr. Twitty noted that area drains would be used with the roof having internal drainage. Scuffers would be used on the roof of the building for emergency overflow only. It was noted that none of these details appeared on the plans and that the Town Commission requested assurances that these requirements would be met. Mr. Twitty noted that routinely these items are addressed at the structural drawing stage of the project. Town Commission Special Meeting - Minutes January 18, 1988 Page 4 of Mayor Stewart noted that inasmuch as all property within Highland Beach is on a barrier isalnd,-that requirements of the Coastal Construction Code would need to be met. Mr. Twitty noted his awareness of this fact and that the areas in which compliance would be assured would be in the design of the building, which would take place at the structural drawing stage. It was reiterated that the only approval being solicited at this point was site plan approval. Mayor Stewart noted that the Coastal Construction Code would require the project to withstand 14f~ MPH winds. Mayor Stewart requested information as to the timing of construction and what sequence construction would take place. Mr. Colman indicated that he is seeking approvals for two buildings, one on the East side and one on the West side and would plan to build both buildings at the same time, which buildings would take approximately 18-24 months to complete after permits are received. Mayor Stewart stated her concern as to road congestion problems which may be created by the construction of two buildings at one time. Mr. Colman indicated that he has not had a problem before and that he would do his best to avoid any problems in this area. Mr. Colman also indicated that the time of commencement of the project would depend on the approvals from other agencies, as well as the availability of funds in order to proceed to permitting and then construction. Mr. Colman further stated that under the Town Code, site plan approval will only be good for 18 months. .Substantial discussion took place regarding the proposed landscaping plan. Mayor Stewart indicated that it had appeared that no consideration had been given the existing trees on the site. Mayor Stewart indicated that there were presently 21 trees on the site which needed to be saved and requested information as to why some of the trees could not be utilized in their present location. Mayor Stewart also requested information as to where the trees will be held prior to replacement. Mr. Brown indicated that in his final survey, he had noted 20 trees rather than 21. Mayor Stewart requested specific information as to the possible saving of the Acacia tree on the property line near Seagate, at the South driveway. Mayor Stewart also expressed concern for the relocation of the Callophyllum located North of the North driveway. Mr. Brown indicated that some of the factors used in determining the saving of trees were the overall scheme of the project, as well as the blocking of views from the units. Mayor Stewart expressed her concern in the procedures to assure the safe relocation of trees and further noted that there was a Callophyllum near Seagate that may be able to remain in its present location. Mr. Brown indicated tat the trees that are to be removed and be relocated will be put in a holding area on the site at the North or South border of the site, which site has not been determined at this time. Mayor Stewart expressed concern as to the root pruning method to be used and the irrigation methods to be used. Mr. Brown indicated that a tree spade would be used and that a drip method of irrigation would be used he first two weeks after transplanting. In answer to Mayor Stewart's Town Commission Special Meeting - Minutes January 18, 1988 Page 5 of question as to what will be used at the base of the replanted trees, Mr. Brown indicated that mulches and ground covers would be used under the trees. Mayor Stewart noted that on the plan, nuisance plants and vegetaion would be removed. An elaboration on the verbage of this was requested in that specific vegetation was not addressed as part of that which would be removed. It was indicated that all vegetation was not to be removed. With regard to the water feature in the front of the building, Mr. Brown indicated that the depth of the water would taper down to 18 inches at maximum. This pond would have a recirculating pump, using a sand filter and ultra violet sterilizer. If this system is not used, a natural system of underground filters, similar to aquariums, would be used, Mr. Brown further indicated that decorations around the pool would consist of stone lanterns and prefabricated type of gazebo, indicating that pictures of some gazebo types were given to the Community Appearance Board for their review. Mayor Stewart noted that she would like to see the designs and how they would look and requested copies of everything that had been given to the C.A.B. Mayor Stewart also reiterated her request for an overlay, drawn to scale, showing the existing landscaping on the property. Mr. Colman took exception to the line of questioning used by Mayor • Stewart, indicating that these plans have been drawn by a professional and he would prefer to take the word of a professional over the opinion of the elected officials. Mayor Stewart indicated that in her past experience, there were problems with the site and unaswered questions that needed to be resolved before she would go forward with any kind of an approval. Mayor Stewart cited the 100 gallons per day per unit water use figures that had been provided. It was indicated that according to Town records, historically, substantial amounts of water in excess of 100 gallons per day per unit is utilized. Mr. Chain indicated that he had used average water statistics received from the South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD) which would normally indicate 400 gallons per day per individual unit. Mr. Chain indicated that in condominium use, less water is used per day. Mr. Chain indicated that he also received information from the Plumbing Society and stated that inasmuch as the xeriscape concept has been utilized on the project, the water usage would be less than normal. Mayor Stewart indicated that in other areas of Town where landscaping is also not a factor, no unit uses that small an amount of water. Mr. Chain indicated that based on the design element of this project, this 100 gallon per day figure had been calculated. Mayor Stewart indicated that she would check with SFWMD as to this fact. Mayor Stewart indicated her great concern and noted the critical nature of the Town's concern for the provision of water. •• flown Commission Special Meeting - Minutes January 18, 1988 Page 6 of Mayor Stewart indicated that no firm committment has been received from Boca Raton with regard to the provisions of water. Renewal of permits from SFWMD were in the process and other factors which are of grave concern to the Town as to water provision. Vice Mayor Blosser readdressed the side setback problem and asked if this could be corrected to come into conformance to the 2g foot requirement. Mr. Colman did not see that this would be a possibility. Commissioner Robinson noted that an attractive initial presentation had been made by Mr. Colman, however, with the lack of detail on the West side and other factors, he did not feel that any action could be taken at this time. Mr. Colman indicated that no more landscaping is proposed and he would like to conserve water, however, he felt he had abided by every requirement in the Town Code and felt that any delay would not be justified. Mayor Stewart asked if Mr. Colman would be agreeable to go onto the site with her to discuss some of the problems she had set out. Commisioner Basso indicated that the Mayor was not asking too much of Mr. Colman and that the resolution of some of these problems needed to be taken care of before final action could be taken. i • Mayor Stewart asked about the irrigation of landscaped areas and how ` same would be accomplished. Mr. Brown indicated that three zones would II be provided, being a low water zone for the front visibility areas, another low water zone for other ground covers, and a moderate water zone for sodded areas. The system would be set for once a week on a timer for the three zones. Three inches of mulch will be used, although the xeriscape code requires two inches of mulch. With regard to second floor planters, a moderate water zone would be provided. Vice Mayor Blosser indicated a concern as to the elevation along the property lines in that irrigation splashing may occur on parked cars on adjacent property. Mr. Brown indicated that directional heads would be used and that he did not feel this was a problem. Answering Mayor Stewart's question as to the number of water meters to be used on the property, Mr. Brown noted that three meters would be used, two meters would be used for domestic and internal use, and the third meter being used for landscaping purposes. Discussion continued on the 10~ gallon per day figure with regard to water use. Mr. Chain indicated that his figures had been arrived at using the following criteria: s Town Commission Special Meeting - Minutes January 18, 1988 Page 7 21---SHOWER 15---COOKING 18---DISHWASHING 22---LAUNDRY 5----DRINKING AND MISCELLANEOUS USE 19---TOILET USE Mayor Stewart expressed her concerns that the quotes given were too low. Mayor Stewart also expressed her concern on water requirements for trees moved, indicating that if some of the trees were left in their location, it would cut down on the water consumption. Vice Mayor Blosser, as well as Commissioner Basso, noted that this project should be reviewed at a future date when some of the questions which had been raised have been answered. Mr. Colman did not understand what more he could give to the Town, especially with regard to the side setback matter, in that to comply with a 29 foot side setback would mean an entirely new building. MOTION was made by Commissioner Basso/Commissioner Robinson to set this item as part of the February 2, 1988 Regular Meeting Agenda for • discussion. Under discussion, Commissioner Robinson noted that some of the questions raised dealt with the evaporation figure for the reflection pond, a clarification of the side setbacks (17 versus 29), conformance to the xeriscape code, details of the water runoff, and further details on the landscaping on the West side of Lot 191 West. Mayor Stewart noted that the Clerk would review the tape and make a master list of all the questions raised. The vote was then taken on the main MOTION to take up this issue as part of the February 2, 1988 Regular Meeting, which MOTION carried with favorable votes. The meeting was then properly adjourned at 12:29 p.m. APPROVED: B t y Jean Stewart, Mayor Mar L ~,se/.:~. Blosser,' jJdice Mayor 1 ~ t r, A'pfi~ST: _ ~ J hn asso, C xssioner ~/ OWN C,L~RK .~ vid T. Robinson, Commissioner DATE :` i~~,t ~ if ~1 ~f~r~ '--~ ~..__ _ Robert F. Scholz, Commission TOWN OF HIGHLAND BEACH, FLORIDA TOWN COMMISSION - Administrative Briefing Friday, January 8, 1988 3:10 P.M. Mayor Betty Jean Stewart, Vice Mayor Mary Louise G. Blosser, and Commissioner John J. Basso were among those present for an Administrative Briefing with the Town Attorney. Pending litigation matters were discussed with the Town Attorney. No action was taken. The briefing adjourned at approximately 5:45 p.m. APPROVED: /~ Bet y Jean Stewart, Mayor ATTES ary L ise B1 sser„ V' e May ',~~-~~ ,~ John Basso, Commissioner ._. • TOWN OF HIGHLAND BEACH, FLORIDA TOWN COMMISSION -- Administrative Briefing Friday, January 8, 1988 10~:3~1 a.m. Commissioner Robert F. Scholz and Commissioner David T. Robinson were present for an Administrative briefing with the Town Attorney. Pending litigation was discussed., however, no quorum was present and no action was taken. The briefing adjourned at approximately 12;(~0 Noon. APPROVED:E~ ~ - ~~~ Robert E': Scholz, Commissio'~Ter~ _., l\ .~; `~-- David T: Robinson, Co sinner A T,TES T : ~,,~ l ~~ ~..,,c.--~~SL.. ~/~ T N CLF,&K ,: /~ - 4~-~- ~ Date . C_ ;~~-"'~-~-~--- d~ ~ ~ `"~Et~-~ ~~. •