4 February 2009 | Approved: 4 March 2009
Chairman McClelland called the meeting to order at 7:35 p.m. In attendance were Commissioners Charlie Challstrom, Steve Werts and Missy Yachup. Also in attendance were Sheldon Bierman, Georgette Cole, Christine Dibble and Bud O’Connor.
Approval of Minutes
Charlie Challstrom moved to approve the minutes from January 2009. The motion was seconded and the minutes were approved.
Public Appearances
Sheldon Bierman presented two documents (Exhibits A & B attached) concerning the proposed Ordinance No. 2008-07. He urged the Planning Commission to hold off on making recommendations to pass this ordinance without further research. Bud O’Connor urged the Planning Commission to apply lot coverage limitations on larger lots; assuming that the threat of mansionization was the impetus for this ordinance revision. He stated that the current document was full of inequities which negatively impacts larger lots in the RR-2 zone while positively impacting the smaller lots in the RR-1 zone. Mr. O’Connor also suggested a home’s maximum square footage be established before any changes are made. A discussion ensued. Commissioner Challstrom stated that the intent of the proposal was to apply the ordinances equally to all lots regardless of their current zone and the sliding scale percentage adjustments were a result of resident and HPC input. Christine Dibble expressed agreement with Bud but suggested that this ordinance get moved forward with the idea that it wasn’t perfect but a step in the right direction. Georgette Cole stated that lowering the percentage of lot coverage for the larger lots as well was a good idea. Chairman McClelland thanked the residents for their input.
103 Brown Street
There was a discussion about the fact that the residents did not build according to the plans submitted to the Planning Commission, to Montgomery County Department of Permitting Services or approved by the Town Board of Zoning Appeals. A discussion about enforcement ensued.
344 Ridge Road
Charlie Challstrom reported that the Montgomery County building permit has been renewed annually, according to a technician at Permitting Services. There was a brief discussion about the County and the Town processes.
Town Master Plan
John McClelland thanked Charlie Challstrom and all others involved in this long project.
Report from Town Council
Charlie Challstrom presented a Council Report (Exhibit C) which included Woods & Forestry, ICC Reforestation, Casey 6 & 7, Maintenance Winter List, Woodward Park Field Use, Johnson Alley Guardrail, Complaints of Violation of County Noise Ordinance and an update from the Maryland Municipal League Montgomery Chapter meeting.
The meeting was adjourned at 9:20 p.m.