6 February 2013 | Approved: 6 March 2013
Chairman Challstrom called the meeting to order at 7:30 p.m. In attendance were commissioners Brenda Gumula, Peter Nagrod, Freda Temple, Steve Werts and David Young. Also in attendance was HPC member Margo Bohan.
Approval of Agenda
Brenda Gumula moved, Peter Nagrod seconded that the agenda be approved. Approved: 6-0.
Approval of the Minutes
Peter Nagrod moved, Brenda Gumula seconded that the Planning Commission minutes for January 9, 2013 be approved. Approved: 6-0.
Public Appearances
There were no public appearances.
Building Permit Applications
There were no building permit applications. Charlie Challstrom reported that the updated report from Code Inspector Larry Plummer for 302 and 346 Ridge Road was received.
Towne Crest Update
Chairman Challstrom brought to the Commission’s attention the Grove Alert e-mail sent by the Mayor earlier in the day. He also noted the receipt of a letter sent from M-NCPPC Chair Francoise Carrier to Hearing Examiner Lynn Robeson stating that although the revisions to the original plan were responsive to the Planning Board’s comments, they only enhance the compatibility of the project to a limited degree; therefore, another review of the redevelopment plan by the Planning Board and/or Staff was not warranted at this time. The decrease in density is not enough to meet the requirements set in the 1985 Gaithersburg Vicinity Master Plan. A discussion ensued.
17051 Oakmont Ave. Update
Chairman Challstrom reported that the large event rentals of the Oakmont Grand Hall will no longer happen. That type of use is not permitted at the location because of the parking restrictions and County zoning regulations. The large signs have also been taken down. Charlie also stated that his interactions with both the property owner and representatives from Montgomery County were civil and productive.
Deer Park Bridge Update
Chairman Challstrom reported that meetings and discussions continue and a representative from MARC attended the most recent meeting. A discussion about the number of stops, parking issues, rights-of-way, funding for upgrades and deadlines ensued. Many of the topics mentioned are in the packet that the committee will present to representatives from CSX.
Report from Town Council
David Young reported the following;
- M-NCPPC representative Brenda Sandberg presented the second version of the Washington Grove Meadow Conservation Park Operations and Use Plan at the January meeting of the Town Council.
- The Town Council passed Resolution No. 2013-01; Resolution Regarding Support for Banning Assault Weapons and High-Capacity Ammunitions Magazines.
- The Town Council approved monies for Phase 1 and Phase 2 of the McCathran Hall repair project.
Continued Discussion Re: Draft Ordinance No. 2013-05
Peter Nagrod stated that nowhere in his research could he find anyplace that required a permit for structures under three (3) feet high. The Commission discussed County Code, exemptions, International Construction Code, platform vs. deck and the need for additional detailed discussions before any actions are taken. The next steps for the Commission will be; establishing benchmarks, reviewing definitions, researching specific Montgomery County standards, safety and the intent of the original ordinance. The Commission will share information via e-mail.
Other Business
- Town Plats – Chairman Challstrom reported that the unrecorded Town plats were taken to the Land Records Office where they will be officially recorded. The plats should be available online in the near future.
- Margo Bohan – reported that she has been working on the Town building permit application process and procedures. Freda Temple is doing the same on the PC side. They will work together on this. Margo is creating a Frequently Asked Questions section as well.
- Annual Joint Meeting with the Town Council and the Planning Commission – Chairman Challstrom reported that this annual event use to happen in March. For reasons unknown to anyone, it no longer happens. He would like to reinstate this tradition.
The meeting was adjourned at 9:30 p.m.