Findings - DR - 2007 - DR-10-07 - Expand The Building
BEFORE THE EAGLE DESIGN REVIEW BOARD
IN THE MATTER OF AN APPLICATION FOR )
A DESIGN REVIEW TO EXPAND THE BUILDING )
FOR EAGLE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH )
FINDINGS OF FACT AND CONCLUSIONS OF LAW
CASE NUMBER DR-IO-07
The above-entitled design review application came before the Eagle Design Review Board for their action
on March 8, 2007. The Board continued the item to March 22, 2007, and made their decision at that time.
The Eagle Design Review Board having heard and taken oral and written testimony, and having duly
considered the matter, makes the following Findings of Fact and Conclusions of Law;
FINDINGS OF FACT:
A. PROJECT SUMMARY:
Eagle United Methodist Church, represented by Cole Poe Architects, is requesting design review
approval for a 23,SOO-square foot building expansion. The applicant is also requesting approval of
a 49' -4" steeple to be relocated to the proposed building addition. The 4.63-acre site is located on
the west side of Eagle Road and Y2-mile north of State Street at 6Sl North Eagle Road.
B. APPLICATION SUBMITTAL:
The City of Eagle received the application for this item on February 7, 2007.
C. NOTICE OF AGENCIES' REVIEW:
Requests for agencies' reviews were transmitted on February 13, 2007, in accordance with the
requirements of the Eagle City Code.
D. HISTORY OF RELEVANT PREVIOUS ACTIONS:
On October 23, 1990, the Eagle City Council approved a conditional use permit for the existing
church building.
On February 9, 1993, the Eagle City Council approved a conditional use permit for a daycare
center within the church.
On November 14, 1995, the Eagle City Council approved a conditional use permit for a temporary
portable building for Sunday school rooms.
On October 12, 1999, the Eagle City Council approved a conditional use permit for a
4,600 square-foot building expansion of the existing church (CU-07-99).
On February 8, 2000, the Eagle City Council approved a design review application for Eagle
United Methodist Church Building Expansion (DR-Sl-99).
E. COMPANION APPLICATIONS:
CU-12-06 - Conditional Use permit for the building expansion and height exception for Eagle
United Methodist Church
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F. COMPREHENSIVE PLAN LAND USE MAP AND ZONING MAP DESIGNATIONS:
COMPPLAN ZONING LAND USE
DESIGNATION DESIGNATION
Existing Mixed Use R-4 (Residential) Eagle United Methodist
Church
Proposed No Change No Change Building addition and
height exception to Eagle
United Methodist Church
North ofsite Mixed Use MU-DA (Mixed Use with Assisted living facility and
Development Agreement) single family residences
South ofsite Public/Semi-Public R-4 (Residential) Single Family Residential
East of site Mixed Use R-9 (Residential) Multi-family/Apartments
West ofsite Residential Four R-4(Residential, up to four Single Family Residential
(Residential, up to four units per acre)
units per acre maximum)
G. DESIGN REVIEW OVERLAY DISTRICT: Not in the DDA, TDA, CEDA, or DSDA.
H. EXISTING SITE CHARACTERISTICS:
The Eagle United Methodist Church, parking lot and mature landscaping currently exist on the
site.
I. SITE DESIGN INFORMATION:
Site Data Proposed Required
Total Acreage of Site 20 I ,900-square feet (4.635-acres) 8,000-square feet (0.18-acrs)
(minimum)
Percentage of Site Devoted to 10% (approximately) 40% (maximum)
Building Coverage
Percentage of Site Devoted to 39% (approximately) 10% (minimum)
Landscaping
Number of Parking Spaces 1 78-parking spaces 80-parking spaces (minimum)
Front Setback 45-feet 20-feet (minimum)
Rear Setback 220- feet 25-feet (minimum)
Side Setback 104- feet 7.5-feet (minimum)
Side Setback 207-feet 7.5-feet (minimum)
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J. GENERAL SITE DESIGN FEATURES:
Number and Uses of Proposed Buildings:
The church expansion will include a sanctuary, a narthex, nursery offices, and a kitchen.
Height and Number of Stories of Proposed Buildings:
The proposed building addition will include a main floor level and basement. The height of the
building will measure twenty-eight feet (28') from the main grade to the top of the gable. The
steeple is proposed to be moved to the new expansion and will measure 49'-4' from the main
grade to the peak.
Gross Floor Area of Proposed Buildings:
Existing: l3,000-square feet (approximately)
Proposed: 23,SOO-square feet
On and Off-Site Circulation:
Three entrances to the property currently exist north of the property off of West Ranch Drive, and
an additional entrance is proposed at the southern portion of the property off of Eagle Road. A
proposed expansion to the existing parking lot will provide a total of 6S,983-square feet (approx.)
of parking with 178 parking spaces.
K. BUILDING DESIGN FEATURES:
Roof: Dark gray architectural grade composite shingles
Walls: Wood siding
Windows/Doors: Panel windows with wood trim to match siding.
FascialTrim: Painted wood trim
L. LANDSCAPING DESIGN:
Retention of Existing Trees and Preservation Methods:
Mature deciduous trees exist at the south-east comer of the site. Several trees are proposed
to be moved to alternate locations during the expansion process.
Upon review of this application the City Forester has noted that the proposed access from
Eagle Road on the south-east portion of the property will adversely impact an
existing 46.8-inch English Oak tree.
Tree Replacement Calculations: N/ A
Proposed Tree Mix (Species & Number): To be reviewed by the Design Review Board
S treet Trees:
Seven (7) trees exist in a planter strip along Eagle Road, and six (6) trees exist in planters
along Ranch Drive, north of the property. Four (4) additional trees will be planted in a
planter strip along the western portion of the property and Ranch Drive.
Maintenance Provisions and Proposed Irrigation Methods:
Automatic irrigation required.
Transition Zones: N/ A
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Parking Lot Landscaping:
a. Perimeter Landscaping: Perimeter landscaping is shown on the site plan on all sides of
the property.
b. Interior Landscaping: 10% interior landscaping is required, 12% (approximately) is
proposed.
M. TRASH ENCLOSURES:
One 48-square foot trash enclosure is currently located at the southwest comer of the existing west
section parking lot. The enclosure is constructed of concrete block painted to match the church
building with metal panel gates on tube frame painted to match.
N. MECHANICAL UNITS:
The applicant is proposing to use ground mounted mechanical units. The ground mounted
mechanical units are proposed to be screened with landscaping.
O. OUTDOOR LIGHTING:
A site and parking lot light plan showing location, height, and wattage is required to be reviewed
and approved by the Design Review Board prior to issuance of any building permits.
P. SIGNAGE:
No signs are proposed with this application. A separate design review application is required for
the approval of any signs.
Q. PUBLIC SERVICES AVAILABLE:
Preliminary approval letters from Central District Health Department, Eagle Fire Department, and
Eagle Sewer District have been received by the City. A water service approval has not been
received to date. Approval of the water company having jurisdiction will be required prior to
issuance of a building permit.
R. PUBLIC USES PROPOSED: None
S. PUBLIC USES SHOWN ON FUTURE ACQUISITIONS MAP: No map currently exists
T. SPECIAL ON-SITE FEATURES:
Areas of Critical Environmental Concern - none
Evidence of Erosion - no
Fish Habitat - no
Floodplain - no
Mature Trees - yes
Riparian Vegetation - no
Steep Slopes - no
Stream/Creek - no
Unique Animal Life - no
Unique Plant Life - no
Unstable Soils - unknown
Wildlife Habitat - no
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U. SUMMARY OF REVIEW OF ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT PLAN (IF REQUIRED): Not
req u ired
V. AGENCY RESPONSES:
The following agencies have responded and their correspondence is incorporated herein by
reference and attached to the staff report. Comments, which appear to be of special concern, are
noted below:
Ada County Highway District
Central District Health Department
Chevron Pipeline
Eagle Fire Department
Eagle Sewer District
W. LETTERS FROM THE PUBLIC: None received to date.
X. COMMENTS FROM THE CITY FORESTER:
Comments by the City Forester are incorporated herein by reference and attached to the staff
report.
STAFF ANALYSIS PROVIDED WITHIN THE STAFF REPORT:
A. COMPREHENSIVE PLAN PROVISIONS, WHICH ARE OF SPECIAL CONCERN REGARDING
THIS PROPOSAL:
Chapter 6 - Land Use
6.3 Land Use Designations
Mixed Use
Suitable primarily for a variety of uses such as limited office, limited commercial,
and residential developments. Uses should complement uses within the Central
Business District (CBD). Development within this land use designation should be
required to proceed through the PUD and/or Development Agreement process, see
specific planning area text for a complete description.
Chapter 12 - Community Design
12.1 Background and Vision
Community design is the organized fashion in which a community is developed in
order that a general mood or theme is established and maintained.
12.2 Goal
Strive to create an aesthetically pleasing community and protect the unique natural
beauty and small town character of the City.
12.4 Implementation Strategies
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g. New residential, commercial, and industrial development shall be required to
meet minimum design standards as specified by City Ordinances.
o. Encourage the planting and preservation of trees that will create beauty and
add to the healthy environment of the downtown.
B. THE EAGLE ARCHITECTURE AND SITE DESIGN BOOK
· Preface:
The general theme of the design review overlay district is to specify desirable building and
landscape architectural styles and materials to create a sustainable and pleasing
environment for residents and visitors alike. The architectural designs, materials, and
graphics set forth in this article are compiled to create a theme unique to the area called
"Eagle Architecture".
C ZONING CODE PROVISIONS, WHICH ARE OF SPECIAL CONCERN REGARDING THIS
PROPOSAL:
· Section 8-2A-2: Purpose and Goals:
A. Purpose: The purpose of the article is to:
1. Recognize the interdependence of land values and aesthetics and to
provide a method by which the City may implement this interdependence
to the benefit of the community.
2. Encourage the development of private property in harmony with the
desired character of the City and in conformance with the guidelines
herein provided with due regard to the public and private interests
involved.
3. Provide planning and design guidelines to give specific direction for
downtown development, while allowing for flexibility that promotes
creative, market driven development proposals.
B. Goals: The general theme of the design review overlay district is to specify
desirable building and landscape architecture styles and materials to create a
sustainable and pleasing environment for residents and visitors alike. The
architectural designs, materials, and graphics set forth in this article are
compiled to create a theme unique to the area called "Eagle Architecture".
(Ord. 462,11-1 1-2003)
· Section 8-2A-5(E)
Eagle Architectural And Site Design Book-EASD: The purpose of the EASD
book is to show, through the use of pictures and text, specific period architectural
styles, themes, and elements envisioned through the requirements of this article.
The EASD book, established through a resolution of the city council and as may
be amended through future resolution(s), contains all exhibits referenced in this
article and is incorporated herein by reference. However, exhibit A-I may only be
modified through an ordinance amendment. The architecture styles found in the
EASD book are permitted styles. Architectural styles not shown within the EASD
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book will not be considered. A copy ofthe EASD book is available at Eagle City
Hall. (Ord. 462,11-11-2003)
· Section 8-2A-6(A)(S)(b)
The location and design of transformers, pad mount and roof mounted
mechanicals and electrical equipment shall be reviewed and approved by the
design review board. All roof mounted mechanicals shall be completely screened
from view through the use of a parapet wall when utilizing a flat roof design or
shall be enclosed within the building when utilizing a roof design other than a flat
roof. "Screened from view" shall mean "not visible" at the same level or
elevation of the parapet wall (e.g., the perspective generally as shown on an
elevation plan);
· Section 8-2A-6 (A)(7)(a)
Additional Height Restrictions: All spires, poles, antennas, steeples, towers, and
any other such structures shall be limited to a maximum ofthirty-five feet (3S').
Additional height may be permitted if a conditional use permit is approved by the
City Council.
· Section 8-2A-7(J)(2)(a)
When a parking lot abuts a residential activity, a five foot (S') wide by six foot
(6') high landscaped buffer is required.
D. DISCUSSION:
· The applicant is requesting design review approval for 23,000-square foot expansion of the
existing l3,000-square foot Eagle United Methodist Church. The proposed expansion will
occur to the south of the existing church building and will become the central fayade of the
church as it fronts Eagle Road. The applicant is also proposing to move the church steeple
from its current location to the proposed new addition, which will exceed the City's maximum
height limitation of thirty five feet (3S'). The applicant has submitted a conditional use permit
application for the building expansion and height exception.
· The existing church structure is approximately l3,000-square feet and the proposed expansion
will add on an additional 23,SOO-square feet. Staff is aware that the original structure was
built and designed prior to the City's current design review standards, however, because the
proposed expansion presents a significant change in the overall look and feel of the church as
it fronts an important corridor though the City staff has concluded that this would be an
appropriate opportunity to bring the church into compliance with existing design standards.
Staff believes that the proposed expansion fails to meet the City's current design review
standards.
· Upon review of this application, the City Forester recommends that the six (6) Cimmaron Ash
trees located along the south side of the property be replaced with alternative Class III trees,
such as Burr Oak, Scarlet Oak, London Planetree, or Shagbark Hickory. This will provide
more shade for the parking lot and enhance the overall urban canopy. Additionally, ashes are
overused in the Treasure Valley and pose considerable maintenance problems and cost to
control aphids and lilac ash borers. Staff defers further comment regarding the City Forester's
letter to the Design Review Board.
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· There are currently three (3) access points north of the church property from West Ranch
Drive, and with the building expansion the applicant is requesting additional access at the
south-east portion of the property from Eagle Road. According to the 2025 Functional Street
Classification System, Eagle Road is classified as a Minor Arterial in which direct
land/property access is discouraged. In a letter date stamped by the City on February 9, 2007,
ACHD stated that no new access points will be allowed on Eagle Road with the exception of
an "emergency only" access.
Comments provided by the City Forester regarding this application state concern that the
proposed access from Eagle Road will adversely impact the 46.8-inch in diameter English Oak
tree that currently inhabits the south-east portion of the property. The City Forester also
indicates that because of its size, age, and health this tree is an asset to the community. The
tree has been valued by the forester at $60,400. Staff is also concerned that the proposed new
access creates a potential hazard for the Eagle Elementary School students walking to and
from the school along Eagle Road. Therefore, access to Eagle Road from this area should be
prohibited.
· When a parking lot abuts a residential activity, a five foot (5') wide by six foot (6') high
landscaped buffer is required. The site plan date stamped by the City on February 7, 2007,
shows a ten foot (10') wide planter strip separating the parking lot from the adjacent
residential use to the south. However, the existing chainlink fence that runs along the south
portion of the property fails to meet City Code which prohibits the use of chain link fencing.
The applicant should coordinate with the property owner adjacent and south of the church
property to replace the existing chain link fence with a six foot (6') high fence or wall
constructed with approved materials, or the applicant should construct a new fence or wall
with approved materials within the proposed buffer area of the church property along the south
property line.
· Staff defers specific comment on the design and architecture of the proposed expansion to the
Design Review Board.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION PROVIDED WITHIN THE REPORT:
Based upon the information provided to staff to date, staff recommends denial of the design review
application.
PUBLIC MEETING OF THE BOARD:
A. A meeting was held on the application before the Design Review Board on Mach 8, 2007. The
application was continued to March 22, 2007, at which time the Board made their decision.
B. Oral testimony in opposition to this proposal was presented to the Design Review Board by no one.
C. Oral testimony in favor of this proposal was presented to the Design Review Board by no one (not
including the applicant/representative).
BOARD DECISION:
The Board voted 7 to 0 to deny DR-l 0-07 for a design review application for Eagle United Methodist
Church Building Expansion for the following reasons:
I. The proposed design of the church failed to comply with the Eagle Architecture And Site Design
Book.
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2. The proposed addition to the church and the proposed access off of Eagle Road would have a
detrimental impact on the English Oak tree that exits on the property.
3. The proposed access from Eagle Road to the property would create a safety concern for pedestrian
and vehicle traffic on Eagle Road.
CONCLUSIONS OF LAW:
1. The application for this item was received by the City of Eagle on February 7, 2007.
2. Requests for agencies' reviews were transmitted on February 13, 2007, in accordance with the
requirements of the Eagle City Code.
3. The Board reviewed the particular facts and circumstances of this proposed design review application
(DR-lO-07) with regard to the Eagle City Code Title 8, Chapter 2, Article A, DR Design Review
Overlay District, and based upon the information provided with the conditions required herein,
concludes that the proposed design review application is not in accordance with the Eagle City Code
and the Eagle Comprehensive Plan.
4. Will not, in fact, constitute a permitted use as established in Eagle City Code Title 8, Chapter 2,
Section 3, for the R-4 (Residential, up to four units per acre maximum) zoning district.
DATED this 12th day of February 2007.
ATTEST:
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