PC 02/12/97 - Laserfiche WebLink

The Code requires four parking spaces for this use. Currently, there are three spaces--two driveway spaces and a garage space. The applicant has agreed to remove part of a deck to include a fourth space, which would meet the requirements of the Code. Staff feels that there may be potential for needed additional parking space. The on-street parking was surveyed for overflow use. Being a corner lot, there are five spaces on Second and East Angela Streets. There should be only three spaces needed for an examination. Mr. Iserson noted that there were some errors in the staff report with respect to the parking calculations. Dr. Bleecker has agreed to allow only three visitors be present during a birth. Therefore, there would be a total demand for six vehicles which can be handled by on-site and on-street parking. In the rare occasion that two births occur at the same time, some people will have to park further away on downtown streets and walk to the office. Dr. Bleecker will advise his patients that they must comply with these parking restrictions. Regarding waste disposal, the applicant will have to comply with the federal and state regulations for hazardous waste disposal. Staffis opposed to childbirth classes to be held at the Birthing Center. There would be 10-20 women participating in such classes. There is a condition of approval denying this use. There is a maximum of ten women using the program at one time; this would average one or two birth per week. As to ambulance transportation to the hospital for complications, if complications do arise, the patient would be transported by private automobile. ~ The neighborhood is concerned about noise in the middle of the night. The applicant advised that noise of the women during childbirth is rare, however, he has agreed to install double-pane windows to reduce noise transmission. All patients will be notified in writing that they must observe sensitivity to noise, etc., because they are in a residential neighborhood. Staff recognizes there is strong neighborhood opposition to the application; however, they have received some neighborhood support of the application. Staff is reluctant to support a use that they feel is detrimental to maintaining the character of a neighborhood. Given the scope and limitations built into the proposal along with the conditions of approval limiting the size and time dedicated to examinations, parking, etc., staff feels this facility can work in the neighborhood without being disruptive or detrimental to the neighborhood. If the use proves to be incompatible to the neighborhood, it can be recalled to the Commission and further, the permit can be revoked. Therefore, staff is comfortable that the conditional use permit will meet the findings and recommend approval subject to the conditions of the staff report. Further, if the Planning Commission cannot make the conditional use permit findings, the Commission can vote for denial and recommend a change in zoning. Mr. Iserson also advised that the addendum conditions disallow any type of holistic services, medical examinations or gynecological examinations. Commissioner Cooper inquired if the approval of this application would preclude future rezoning of the area from RM to Rl. Mr. Iserson said it would not; however, the use would be allowed to continue as a pre-existing nonconforming use. Planning Commission Minutes Page 4 February 12, 1997