HomeMy WebLinkAboutPacket - PC - 06-24-2020 PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION MINUTES
City Council Chambers
2006 Heritage Walk
Wednesday, February 26, 2020
6:00 pm
1. Pledge of Allegiance
Members Present: Members Absent:
Sumeet Shah Fred Edwards Marty Lock
Zach Middlebrooks Kurt Nolte
Jan Jacobus Ron Gilbert
2. Election of Officers
1) Chairman – A motion was made by Fred Edwards and seconded by Kurt Nolte to
appoint Ron Gilbert as Chairman of the Planning Commission. The motion
passed unanimously.
2) Vice-Chairman – A motion was made by Kurt Nolte and seconded by Fred
Edwards to nominate Sumeet Shah as Vice Chairman of the Planning
Commission. The motion passed unanimously.
3. Call to Order - The meeting was called to order at 6:03 p.m.
4. Public Comment - There was no Public Comment.
5. Approval of Action Minutes
a) December 18, 2019 Planning Commission Meeting – A motion was made
by Fred Edwards and seconded by Sumeet Shah to approve the minutes
as presented by Staff. The motion was approved 4-0-2.
a) January 29, 2020 Planning Commission Meeting - A motion was made by
Fred Edwards and seconded by Sumeet Shah to approve the minutes as
presented by Staff. The motion was approved 4-0-2.
6. Use Permits
a) U20-01/VC20-01 - 12900 Arnold Mill Road by Ebenezer United Methodist
Church for a use permit (Sec. 64-1804) to construct a 23,000 sq.ft. activity
center on the existing church property (5,088 sq.ft.) for a total of 28,088 sq.ft.
on 6.61 acres. To request a four-part concurrent variance to 1) delete the 75-
Page 2 of 2
foot undisturbed buffer and 10-foot improvement setback adjacent to the
north property lines and the property line labeled N10 degrees 22 minutes 54
seconds East (Sec. 64-1143 (3)(B)), 2) to allow parking in front of a building
(Sec. 64-1143(g)(5)(c)), 3) reduce the required parking (Sec. 64-1410), and 4)
To reduce the use area/structure setback from 100 feet to 25 feet from any
adjoining residential district or AG-1 used for single family dwellings (Sec. 64-
1804(b)(1)).
A motion was made by Sumeet Shah and seconded by Fred Edwards to
defer U20-01/VC20-01 to the March 25, 2020 Planning Commission Meeting.
The motion passed unanimously.
7. Training for the Planning Commission by the City Attorney
8. Adjourn – A motion was made by Sumeet Shah and seconded by Zach
Middlebrooks to adjourn the meeting at 8:12 p.m.
____________________
Chairman
_____________________
Date
U20-01/VC20-01 - Prepared for the City of Milton Planning Commission Meeting on June 24, 2020.
*Based on a revised Letter of Intent received on March 5, 2020 and a revised Site Plan received on March 16,
2020.
USE PERMIT STAFF REPORT
12900 Arnold Mill Road
CASE NUMBER: U20-01/VC20-01
CURRENT ZONING: AG-1 (Agricultural)
CURRENT USE: Church – 5,088 sq. ft.
PROPOSED USE PERMIT: Church (Sec. 64-1804)
PROPOSED USE: Church Activity Center – 23,000 sq. ft.
ACREAGE: 6.61 acres
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
CHARACTER AREA: Arnold Mill
DISTRICT/SECTION/LAND 2ND District, 2nd Section, LL 1092
LOT(S):
APPLICANT/OWNER: Gene Jernigan
Ebenezer United Methodist Church
12900 Arnold Mill Road
Milton, GA 30075
REPRESENTATIVE: Regie Elkins
3605 Sandy Plains Road Suite 240-427
Marietta, GA 30066
APPLICANT’S REQUEST:
A Use Permit to construct a 23,000 sq. ft. activity center on the existing
church property (5,088 sq. ft.) for a total of 28,088 sq. ft. on 6.61 acres. To
request the following two-part concurrent variance*:
Concurrent Variance to Off-Street Parking: (Part 1)
Sec. 64-1410 Part 1: To reduce the required parking.
U20-01/VC20-01 - Prepared for the City of Milton Planning Commission Meeting on June 24, 2020.
*Based on a revised Letter of Intent received on March 5, 2020 and a revised Site Plan received on
March 16, 2020.
Page 2 of 31 6/17/2020
Concurrent Variance to Use Permit (Part 2):
Sec. 64-1804(b)(1) Part 2: To reduce the use area/structure setback
from 100 feet to 25 feet from any adjoining
residential district or AG-1 used for single family
dwellings (This request is no longer required and
has been withdrawn.)
Concurrent Variances to Rural Milton Overlay District (Parts 3 and 4)
Sec. 64-1143 (3)(B) Part 3: To delete the 75-foot undisturbed buffer
and 10-foot improvement setback adjacent to
the north property lines and the property line
labeled N10° 22’ 54“East (This request is no longer
required and has been withdrawn.)
Sec. 64-1143(g)(5)(c) Part 4: To allow parking in front of a building.
===========================================================
PLANNING COMMISSION – FEBRUARY 26, 2020
Voted to defer this item to the March 25, 2020 meeting as requested by
the applicant to allow additional time to revise the site plan.
PLANNING COMMISSION – MARCH 25, 2020, APRIL 22, 2020, &
MAY 27, 2020
These meetings were canceled due to the emergency resolution in
response to the Covid-19 epidemic.
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT RECOMMENDATION –
JUNE 24, 2020
U20-01 – APPROVAL CONDITIONAL
VC20-01 – PARTS 1 & 4 – APPROVAL CONDITIONAL
(PARTS 2 & 3 PREVIOUSLY WITHDRAWN)
U20-01/VC20-01 - Prepared for the City of Milton Planning Commission Meeting on June 24, 2020.
*Based on a revised Letter of Intent received on March 5, 2020 and a revised Site Plan received on
March 16, 2020.
Page 3 of 31 6/17/2020
Subject Site – Existing building looking north on Arnold Mill Road
Subject Site – Existing building looking south toward Cox Road
U20-01/VC20-01 - Prepared for the City of Milton Planning Commission Meeting on June 24, 2020.
*Based on a revised Letter of Intent received on March 5, 2020 and a revised Site Plan received on
March 16, 2020.
Page 4 of 31 6/17/2020
LOCATION MAP
U20-01/VC20-01 - Prepared for the City of Milton Planning Commission Meeting on June 24, 2020.
*Based on a revised Letter of Intent received on March 5, 2020 and a revised Site Plan received on
March 16, 2020.
Page 5 of 31 6/17/2020
EXISTING ZONING MAP
U20-01/VC20-01 - Prepared for the City of Milton Planning Commission Meeting on June 24, 2020.
*Based on a revised Letter of Intent received on March 5, 2020 and a revised Site Plan received on
March 16, 2020.
Page 6 of 31 6/17/2020
2035 FUTURE LAND USE MAP
U20-01/VC20-01 - Prepared for the City of Milton Planning Commission Meeting on June 24, 2020.
*Based on a revised Letter of Intent received on March 5, 2020 and a revised Site Plan received on
March 16, 2020.
Page 7 of 31 6/17/2020
SITE PLAN SUBMITTED – December 2, 2019
U20-01/VC20-01 - Prepared for the City of Milton Planning Commission Meeting on June 24, 2020.
*Based on a revised Letter of Intent received on March 5, 2020 and a revised Site Plan received on
March 16, 2020.
Page 8 of 31 6/17/2020
REVISED SITE PLAN SUBMITTED – MARCH 16, 2020
U20-01/VC20-01 - Prepared for the City of Milton Planning Commission Meeting on June 24, 2020.
*Based on a revised Letter of Intent received on March 5, 2020 and a revised Site Plan received on
March 16, 2020.
Page 9 of 31 6/17/2020
SUBJECT SITE AND BACKGROUND:
The subject site is zoned AG-1 (Agricultural) developed with the Ebenezer
United Methodist Church with 5,088 square feet that includes the
sanctuary and a small outbuilding. Since the last Use Permit approved by
Fulton County pursuant to U93-024, the church has acquired
approximately 2.47 additional acres for a total of 6.61 acres. The
approved Use Permit in 1993 allowed for an addition to the existing
church up to 5,000 square feet.
The church is now requesting permission to develop a 23,000 square foot
activity center. In their letter of intent, they state:
“It would be to serve the neighborhood as well as congregational
use; such as weddings, retreats, funerals, youth activities, and Easter
and Christmas services special events.”
Staff notes that at the December 17, 2019 CZIM Meeting it was discovered
that there was a single-family house located on the Georgia Golf Center’s
property to the north. Therefore, an additional concurrent variance was
added to the request and a need to re-advertise for the use permit and
concurrent variance.
Staff met with representatives of the church, their architect and engineer
and discussed the possibility of revising the site plan in order to move the
proposed activity center away from the north property line and no longer
require the concurrent variance related to the original location. Included
below are preliminary elevations of the proposed activity center and
proposed pavilion for the site. Please note that all structures will be
required to be reviewed and approved by the City of Milton Design
Review Board. The applicant’s architect has been working closely with the
City Architect on the design of the buildings to ensure compliance with
Rural Milton Overlay District.
U20-01/VC20-01 - Prepared for the City of Milton Planning Commission Meeting on June 24, 2020.
*Based on a revised Letter of Intent received on March 5, 2020 and a revised Site Plan received on
March 16, 2020.
Page 10 of 31 6/17/2020
Activity Center Elevations (Looking West and North)
U20-01/VC20-01 - Prepared for the City of Milton Planning Commission Meeting on June 24, 2020.
*Based on a revised Letter of Intent received on March 5, 2020 and a revised Site Plan received on
March 16, 2020.
Page 11 of 31 6/17/2020
Activity Center Elevations (Looking East and South)
U20-01/VC20-01 - Prepared for the City of Milton Planning Commission Meeting on June 24, 2020.
*Based on a revised Letter of Intent received on March 5, 2020 and a revised Site Plan received on
March 16, 2020.
Page 12 of 31 6/17/2020
Example of the type of pavilion
U20-01/VC20-01 - Prepared for the City of Milton Planning Commission Meeting on June 24, 2020.
*Based on a revised Letter of Intent received on March 5, 2020 and a revised Site Plan received on
March 16, 2020.
Page 13 of 31 6/17/2020
In addition, during that time, it was discovered that a 34” DBH located in
the center of the site was determined to be significantly in decline and a
possible hazard to the area. The City Arborist approved the request to
remove the subject tree.
A revised site plan was received by the Community Development
Department on March 16, 2020 that reflects the proposed current location
and orientation of the activity center.
Public Involvement
Community Zoning Information Meeting
There were two CZIM meetings held. The first was held on December 17,
2019. The applicant was there as well as the project architect from the
church. There were six members of the community who signed the
attendance sheet. The following issues/concerns were discussed during
the meeting:
• Property owners in the Etris Walk Subdivision (within the City of
Roswell) on the south side of Cox Road were concerned about
lighting and traffic produced by the additional parking lot and
building.
• The owner/operator of the Georgia Golf Center which abuts the site
to the north did not approve of the new building so close to their
property line without some type of buffer.
• Everyone expressed concern over the congested intersection at
Cox and Arnold Mill.
The second CZIM meeting was held on January 28, 2020 which included
an additional concurrent variance required at the time based on the
original site plan. The applicant and the architect were present at the
meeting. There was no one from the community in attendance.
City of Milton Design Review Board Meeting Courtesy Review –
February 4, 2020
The following comments were made at the meeting:
• Support the use permit. Need to work on architecture if
approved and would like to see the paint color if approved.
U20-01/VC20-01 - Prepared for the City of Milton Planning Commission Meeting on June 24, 2020.
*Based on a revised Letter of Intent received on March 5, 2020 and a revised Site Plan received on
March 16, 2020.
Page 14 of 31 6/17/2020
• Wise to reduce the parking.
Public Participation Meetings and Report
The first meeting was held December 16, 2019 with four attendees present.
The major points of discussion/questions concerned the parking lot lighting
and existing traffic at the Arnold Mill Rd/Cox Rd intersection. It was
pointed out the parking lighting would be per the City of Milton Night Sky
Ordinance. According to the applicant, the attendees all seemed to like
the project and willing to support it.
The second meeting was scheduled for February 17, 2020 to include the
proposed additional concurrent variance that was subsequently no
longer required. No one showed up for this meeting.
Both meetings were held at the church’s fellowship hall at 6:00 p.m.
City of Roswell
Staff informed the City of Roswell Community Development Department
about the requested Use Permit and Concurrent Variances for the
proposed activity center. The Roswell Community Development
Department informed Milton Staff that they were not opposed to the
request or required any special conditions for the site.
SITE PLAN ANALYSIS
Based on the applicant’s revised site plan submitted to the Community
Development Department on March 16, 2020, Staff offers the following
considerations:
Parking
VC20-01 - Part 1: To reduce the required parking (Sec. 64-1410).
The applicant is requesting to reduce the number of required parking
spaces from 220 spaces to 144 spaces of which 27 currently exist.
The parking standards for an assembly area without fixed seating is one
space per 35 square feet in the largest assembly area. The proposed new
activity building will have 7,700 square feet for the largest assembly area
which requires 220 spaces. The request is to reduce the number to 144
spaces. The number of parking spaces for the main sanctuary is more
U20-01/VC20-01 - Prepared for the City of Milton Planning Commission Meeting on June 24, 2020.
*Based on a revised Letter of Intent received on March 5, 2020 and a revised Site Plan received on
March 16, 2020.
Page 15 of 31 6/17/2020
than sufficient and the two buildings would not be utilized simultaneously
therefore, the 144 parking spaces would accommodate the needs of the
congregation.
The applicant states the following in the revised Letter of Intent* regarding
the parking reduction:
“The new 117 spaces in addition to the existing 27 spaces totals 144
spaces. An additional 25 spaces are available by permission at the
Porter School across Cox Road. This totals 169 spaces. The maximum
event totals for Ebenezer’s largest event is for their Christmas Eve
services. They have two services averaging 110 people at each
service. Realistically there would be only 2-4 annual events that
might have the need for the available reduced
parking…Additionally, Ebenezer UMC’s intent is to use porous, grass
pavers or crushed gravel on the southwest parking area in lieu of
asphalt.”
(1) Relief, if granted, would not offend the spirit or intent of this zoning
ordinance
The proposed and existing 144 parking spaces is sufficient parking for the
site based on the infrequency of special services and the historical
attendance in the main church building and the availability of 25
additional parking spaces across the street at the Porter School for when
the new activity center is used. In addition, the applicant will be
constructing the new parking area with porous, grass pavers or crushed
gravel in lieu of asphalt which will improve the hydrology of the site.
Therefore, relief, if granted, would not offend the spirit or intent of this
zoning ordinance.
(2) There are such extraordinary and exceptional situations or conditions
pertaining to the particular piece of property that the literal or strict
application of this zoning ordinance would create an unnecessary
hardship due to size, shape or topography or other extraordinary and
exceptional situations or conditions not caused by the variance
applicant.
The required 220 parking spaces required is excessive based on the
infrequency of special services in the main church building and available
off-site parking at the Porter School. In addition, the site has a stream
which requires a 75-foot buffer from its wrested vegetation, as well as the
requirement for the 75-foot buffer and 10-foot improvement setback
along the west property line adjacent to an existing single-family
U20-01/VC20-01 - Prepared for the City of Milton Planning Commission Meeting on June 24, 2020.
*Based on a revised Letter of Intent received on March 5, 2020 and a revised Site Plan received on
March 16, 2020.
Page 16 of 31 6/17/2020
residence. These exceptional situations or conditions create an
unnecessary hardship not caused by the applicant.
(3) Relief, if granted would not cause a substantial detriment to the public
good and surrounding properties.
Based on the infrequency of special services and the historical
attendance in the main church building and the availability of 25
additional parking spaces across the street at the Porter School for the
new activity center when it is in use, relief, if granted would not cause a
substantial detriment to the public good and surrounding properties.
(4) That the public safety, health and welfare are secured, and that
substantial justice is done.
In providing the requested 144 parking spaces, the public safety, health
and welfare are secured, and that substantial justice is done.
Church Use Permit Standards
Below is a table that shows the development standards that indicate
compliance with these standards for a church. The applicant originally
requested one (1) concurrent variance as it relates to the development
standards of the Church Use Permit. Based on the revised site plan and
revised Letter of Intent* which relocated the activity center 100 feet from
the north property line adjacent to a single-family residence, VC20-01,
Part 2 is no longer required and has been withdrawn from the request.
Church (Section 64-1804)
Required Standard Meets the Standard
Required districts – AG-1 (Agricultural) Yes
Standards.
(1) All buildings and use areas/structures other than parking
and pedestrian walkways shall be located at least 100
feet from any adjoining residential district or AG-1 district
used for single-family dwellings.
Yes
(2) No parking shall be located within the minimum front
yard setback.
Yes
(3) Any associated day care centers, private schools,
recreational fields or other uses requiring a use permit or
administrative permit shall be allowed only under a
separate approved use permit or administrative permit
for each use.
Not Applicable/ No
day care, private
schools, etc.
U20-01/VC20-01 - Prepared for the City of Milton Planning Commission Meeting on June 24, 2020.
*Based on a revised Letter of Intent received on March 5, 2020 and a revised Site Plan received on
March 16, 2020.
Page 17 of 31 6/17/2020
(4) The minimum buffers and landscape strips required for
the O-I zoning district as specified in article III of this zoning
ordinance shall be required.
Not Applicable/
Rural Milton Overlay
Requirements
supersede these
requirements
Rural Milton Overlay District
The proposed site plan meets the requirements of the Rural Milton Overlay
District as required pursuant to Sec. 64-1142 except for one (1)
development standard and the applicant is requesting concurrent
variances which will be discussed below.
Staff notes that VC20-01, Part 3 has been withdrawn from this request
based on the relocation of the proposed activity center and therefore will
meet the requirement for a 75-foot undisturbed buffer and 10-foot
improvement setback along the north property line.
Northern property lines (75-foot buffer and 10-foot improvement setback)
U20-01/VC20-01 - Prepared for the City of Milton Planning Commission Meeting on June 24, 2020.
*Based on a revised Letter of Intent received on March 5, 2020 and a revised Site Plan received on
March 16, 2020.
Page 18 of 31 6/17/2020
Western property lines (75-foot buffer and 10-foot improvement setback)
VC20-01, Part 4: To allow parking in front of a building (Sec. 64-
1143(g)(5)(c)).
The applicant is requesting that the existing parking in front of the existing
building as well as parking in front of the proposed building be permitted.
(1) Relief, if granted, would not offend the spirit or intent of this zoning
ordinance
The applicant will be installing the required 15-foot landscape strip
planted to buffer standards in front of the existing and proposed parking
along the Cox Road frontage. The existing parking has existed since prior
to the adoption of the Rural Milton Overlay District (previously known as
the Northwest Fulton Overlay District) based upon the approved Use
Permit U96-05 (Fulton County). The location for the proposed parking is
the only area that can accommodate the number of parking spaces
needed for the site. By providing vegetation to help ameliorate the
impact of the parking, relief, if granted does not offend the spirit or intent
of this ordinance.
(2) There are such extraordinary and exceptional situations or conditions
pertaining to the particular piece of property that the literal or strict
U20-01/VC20-01 - Prepared for the City of Milton Planning Commission Meeting on June 24, 2020.
*Based on a revised Letter of Intent received on March 5, 2020 and a revised Site Plan received on
March 16, 2020.
Page 19 of 31 6/17/2020
application of this zoning ordinance would create an unnecessary
hardship due to size, shape or topography or other extraordinary and
exceptional situations or conditions not caused by the variance
applicant.
The site plan indicates compliance with all the required setbacks and
buffers. In addition, there is a state water that requires a 75-foot stream
buffer on either side of the stream. Lastly, the site is located on a corner
and therefore, it is difficult to place parking behind the building and not
between the street and the buildings. Based on these issues, these are
exceptional conditions that are not caused by the applicant.
(3) Relief, if granted would not cause a substantial detriment to the public
good and surrounding properties.
Based on the above discussed issues, relief of providing parking behind
buildings, will not cause a substantial detriment to the public good and
surrounding properties.
(4) That the public safety, health and welfare are secured, and that
substantial justice is done.
Existing Parking Lot in front of church building (Looking towards Cox Rd)
U20-01/VC20-01 - Prepared for the City of Milton Planning Commission Meeting on June 24, 2020.
*Based on a revised Letter of Intent received on March 5, 2020 and a revised Site Plan received on
March 16, 2020.
Page 20 of 31 6/17/2020
By approving this request, the public safety, health and welfare are
secured, and that substantial justice is done. Therefore, Staff recommends
APPROVAL CONDITIONAL of Part 4 of VC20-01.
Environmental Site Analysis
The Environmental Site Analysis (ESA) report was completed as required by
the Zoning Ordinance. The site plan indicates there are no wetlands or
floodplain on the property. There is a stream located on the property and
has been identified with the appropriate buffers. There are not presently
or in the future any buildings or activity within this sensitive area. There are
no steep slopes, archeological/historical sites, endangered vegetation or
wildlife on the site. The applicant has submitted the appropriate tree
survey and shall comply with the City of Milton Tree Ordinance.
USE PERMIT CONSIDERATIONS
In the interest of the public health, safety and welfare, the Mayor and City
Council may exercise limited discretion in evaluating the site proposed for
a use that requires a Use Permit. In exercising such discretion pertaining to
the subject use, the Mayor and City Council shall consider each of the
following as outlined in Sec. 64-1552 of the Zoning Ordinance: Use Permit
Considerations. Staff has reviewed said items pertaining to the subject
use, and, offers the following comments:
1. Whether the proposed use is consistent with the land use or
economic development plans adopted by the Mayor and City
Council:
The existing church is in the Agricultural, Equestrian, Estate Residential
(AEE) land use category on the City of Milton 2016 Comprehensive Plan
Update Plan Map. A church or place of worship is an allowed use if a Use
Permit is approved by the Mayor and City Council. Therefore, it is the
opinion of Staff that the proposed use is consistent with the current
Comprehensive Land Use Plan.
2. Compatibility with land uses and zoning districts in the vicinity of the
property for which the use permit is proposed:
Based on the adjacent and nearby land uses and zoning districts
indicated below in the table and corresponding map, the proposed
expansion is compatible with the land uses and zoning districts in the
vicinity of the subject site.
U20-01/VC20-01 - Prepared for the City of Milton Planning Commission Meeting on June 24, 2020.
*Based on a revised Letter of Intent received on March 5, 2020 and a revised Site Plan received on
March 16, 2020.
Page 21 of 31 6/17/2020
Number
Direction
Description Zoning District/
Use Permit
1
North/NW
Georgia Golf Driving Range AG-1(Agricultural)
U89-31
2
North/East
Scattered single family residences
on various size parcels
AG-1(Agricultural)
3
Southeast
Ebenezer Cemetery AG-1(Agricultural)
4
Southeast
City of Milton Soccer Complex AG-1(Agricultural)
5
South
The Porter School
(City of Roswell)
Civic & Institution
6
South/SW
Etris Walk Subdivision
(City of Roswell)
RS-30 (Single Family
Estate)
7
Further
West
Union Primitive Baptist Church AG-1(Agricultural)
U11-01
8
West
Single Family Residence AG-1 (Agricultural)
U20-01/VC20-01 - Prepared for the City of Milton Planning Commission Meeting on June 24, 2020.
*Based on a revised Letter of Intent received on March 5, 2020 and a revised Site Plan received on
March 16, 2020.
Page 22 of 31 6/17/2020
U20-01/VC20-01 - Prepared for the City of Milton Planning Commission Meeting on June 24, 2020.
*Based on a revised Letter of Intent received on March 5, 2020 and a revised Site Plan received on
March 16, 2020.
Page 23 of 31 6/17/2020
Looking Southwest towards Etris Walk Subdivision
Looking south toward Etris Walk Subdivision across Cox Rd
U20-01/VC20-01 - Prepared for the City of Milton Planning Commission Meeting on June 24, 2020.
*Based on a revised Letter of Intent received on March 5, 2020 and a revised Site Plan received on
March 16, 2020.
Page 24 of 31 6/17/2020
Looking south toward the Porter School across Cox Rd
City’s soccer fields across Cox Rd
U20-01/VC20-01 - Prepared for the City of Milton Planning Commission Meeting on June 24, 2020.
*Based on a revised Letter of Intent received on March 5, 2020 and a revised Site Plan received on
March 16, 2020.
Page 25 of 31 6/17/2020
3. Whether the proposed use may violate local, state and/or federal
statutes, ordinances or regulations governing land development:
The proposed use currently violates regulations governing land
development, but if the requested use permit and associated concurrent
variances are approved it would not violate local, state and/or federal
statutes, ordinances or regulations governing land development.
4. The effect of the proposed use on traffic flow, vehicular and
pedestrian, along adjoining streets:
Based on the fact that the church and the proposed new activity center
will have limited use during the week and the type of activities that should
not increase the amount of traffic accessing the property, the proposed
use will not have a negative impact on the traffic flow, vehicular and
pedestrian, along adjoining streets.
5. The location and number of off-street parking spaces;
The location of the existing parking is at the corner of Cox and Arnold Mill
Roads in front of the existing sanctuary. The proposed new parking is
located behind the existing sanctuary and to the west along Cox Road.
The site will accommodate the Rural Milton Overlay that requires a 15-foot
wide landscape strip planted to buffer standards pursuant to Sec. 64-
1143(b)(3). The applicant has requested a concurrent variance VC20-01,
Part 1 and Staff is recommending that it be approved.
The applicant is requesting to reduce the number of required parking
spaces from 220 spaces to 144 spaces that include 27 existing spaces.
The parking standards for an assembly area without fixed seating is one
space per 35 square feet in the largest assembly area. The proposed new
activity building will have 7,700 square feet for the largest assembly area
which requires 220 spaces. The request is to reduce the number to 144
spaces. The number of parking spaces for the main sanctuary is more
than sufficient and the two buildings would not be utilized simultaneously
therefore, the 144 parking spaces would accommodate the needs of the
congregation.
6. The amount and location of open space:
The site contains 6.61 acres and there is a stream located on the
northwestern portion of the property and a 75-foot undisturbed buffer and
U20-01/VC20-01 - Prepared for the City of Milton Planning Commission Meeting on June 24, 2020.
*Based on a revised Letter of Intent received on March 5, 2020 and a revised Site Plan received on
March 16, 2020.
Page 26 of 31 6/17/2020
10-foot improvement setback adjacent to the west and northern property
lines.
7. Protective screening:
The Rural Milton Overlay requires a 75-foot undisturbed buffer and 10-foot
improvement setback adjacent to all interior property lines. The applicant
has provided the required 75-foot undisturbed buffer and 10-foot
improvement setback adjacent to all the required property lines. In
addition, a required 15-foot landscape strip planted to buffer standards
will be required along Cox Road where the new parking area is proposed.
In addition, a 10-foot landscape strip is required along other frontages
where there is no parking viewed from the right-of-way (Arnold Mill Road).
8. Hours and manner of operation:
The applicant has submitted a very detailed schedule for both the existing
sanctuary as well as the proposed activity center.
The activity center will include the following:
1) Weekly 9:45 a.m. Sunday service for everyone;
2) Weekly Wednesday night youth activities;
3) Christmas Eve Services and Easter Services; and
4) Weddings and special events such as dinners, entertainment,
and community events.
The existing sanctuary and building will include the following:
1) Weekly 8:30 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. Sunday traditional services, Ash
Wednesday services;
2) Various groups such as Sunday School (9:45 a.m.) bible studies,
support groups, choir practice, committee meetings, game
nights; and
3) Occasional memorial/funeral services, weddings/receptions, St.
Valentines and Christmas Banquets and related holiday events,
and quarterly craft day.
Based on the above information, the days of operation would be Monday
through Saturday, 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.; Sundays - 8:00 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.
9. Outdoor lighting:
The applicant has not indicated any additional lighting on the site. If
lighting is proposed, it must comply with the Night Sky Ordinance.
U20-01/VC20-01 - Prepared for the City of Milton Planning Commission Meeting on June 24, 2020.
*Based on a revised Letter of Intent received on March 5, 2020 and a revised Site Plan received on
March 16, 2020.
Page 27 of 31 6/17/2020
10. Ingress and egress to the property.
The site plan indicates there are three curb cuts along Cox Road. The
applicant has stated that the curb cut closest to the intersection of Cox
and Arnold Mill Road will be eliminated.
CONCLUSION
If approved with the Recommended Conditions, the existing church
facility and proposed activity center is consistent with the City of Milton
Comprehensive Land Use Plan Update 2016. Therefore, Staff recommends
U20-01 be APPROVED CONDITIONAL. Additionally, Staff recommends
VC20-01, Parts 1 and 4 be APPROVED CONDITIONAL.
U20-01/VC20-01 - Prepared for the City of Milton Planning Commission Meeting on June 24, 2020.
*Based on a revised Letter of Intent received on March 5, 2020 and a revised Site Plan received on
March 16, 2020.
Page 28 of 31 6/17/2020
RECOMMENDED CONDITIONS
If this petition is approved by the Mayor and City Council, it should be
approved for a Use Permit for a Church (Sec. 64-1804) subject to the
owner’s agreement to the following enumerated conditions. Where these
conditions conflict with the stipulations and offerings contained in the
Letter of Intent, these conditions shall supersede unless specifically
stipulated by the Mayor and City Council.
1) To the owner’s agreement to restrict the use of the subject property
as follows:
a) Assembly building with a maximum of 5,088 sq. ft. and a 23,000
sq. ft. activity center for a total of 28,088 sq. ft. located on
6.61acres.
b) Accessory structures to include a pavilion with outdoor fireplace.
2) To the owner’s agreement to abide by the following:
a) Substantial compliance with the revised site plan received by
the Community Development Department on March 16, 2020
whereby the exact layout of the project may contain minor
deviations approved by the Community Development Director
provided the deviations remain consistent with the purpose and
intent of the Council’s approval of the Use
Permit. Notwithstanding the contents of the site plan, the project
must meet or exceed the requirements of the Zoning Ordinance,
all other applicable city ordinances and these conditions prior to
the approval of a Land Disturbance Permit. The site plan may
be revised with the approval of the Community Development
Director in order to comply with city codes and zoning
conditions. Unless otherwise noted herein, compliance with all
conditions shall be in place prior to the issuance of the first
Certificate of Occupancy.
b) Days and Hours of operation including deliveries:
Monday through Saturday, 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Sundays - 8:00 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.
3) To the owner’s agreement to the following site development
considerations:
U20-01/VC20-01 - Prepared for the City of Milton Planning Commission Meeting on June 24, 2020.
*Based on a revised Letter of Intent received on March 5, 2020 and a revised Site Plan received on
March 16, 2020.
Page 29 of 31 6/17/2020
a) To construct new parking areas with porous, grass pavers or
crushed gravel on the southwest parking area.
4) To the owner’s agreement to abide by the following requirements,
dedication and improvements:
a) Access to the site shall be subject to the approval of City of
Milton Department of Public Works and Georgia Department of
Transportation, prior to the issuance of a Land Disturbance
Permit, Subdivision Plat or Certificate of Occupancy (whichever
comes first). Entrance(s) and frontage improvements shall
conform to Chapter 48 Streets, Sidewalks and Other Public
Places of the City of Milton Code of Ordinances.
5) To the owner’s agreement to abide by the following:
a) A stormwater management concept plan shall be submitted
and approved by Milton Public Works Department prior to
submission of land disturbance application if required.
U20-01/VC20-01 - Prepared for the City of Milton Planning Commission Meeting on June 24, 2020.
*Based on a revised Letter of Intent received on March 5, 2020 and a revised Site Plan received on
March 16, 2020.
Page 30 of 31 6/17/2020
RECOMMENDED CONCURRENT VARIANCES (VC20-01)
1) Sec. 64-1410 - To reduce the required number of parking spaces to 144
parking spaces. (VC20-01, Part 1)
2) Sec. 64-1143(g)(5)(c) - To allow parking in front of a building. (VC20-01,
Part 4)
U20-01/VC20-01 - Prepared for the City of Milton Planning Commission Meeting on June 24, 2020.
*Based on a revised Letter of Intent received on March 5, 2020 and a revised Site Plan received on
March 16, 2020.
Page 31 of 31 6/17/2020
To: Robyn MacDonald, Zoning Manager
From: Alex Fortner, Fire Marshal
Date: February 14, 2020
Zoning Item: U20-01/VC20-01 Ebenezer UMC
12900 Arnold Mill Road
Departmental Comments/Recommendation:
Refer to ADA standards for accessible design on the required number of accessible
parking spaces. The current allotment is not sufficient.
-It appears as though the structure is within 600’ of a hydrant as measured by an
approved route around the exterior. Therefore, an additional hydrant is not required
onsite. The Fire Department Connection (FDC) shall be shown on the site plan. Since
there is not a hydrant onsite, place the remote FDC no more than 100’ from the nearest
fire hydrant connection, while not obstructing ingress and egress to the structure. Flow
test required at LDP.
-If the vertical distance between grade plane and the highest roof surface exceeds 30’,
the approved fire access road shall have a minimum unobstructed width of 26’ in the
immediate vicinity of the structure. The access road shall be located not less than 15’
and not greater than 30’ from the structure.
-AutoTURN our aerial apparatus from Cox Road to the structure to ensure accessibility.
Contact the FM’s office for apparatus dimensions.
Attachment(s):
To: Robyn MacDonald, Zoning Manager
From: Gerald F. Oberholtzer, PE – Plan Reviewer
Date: June 19, 2020
Zoning Item: U20-01/VC20-01 Ebenezer UMC
12900 Arnold Mill Road
Departmental Comments/Recommendation:
1. The entire site will be required to comply with the City of Milton stormwater
ordinance (found in City of Milton Code Chapter 20).
Attachment(s):
A2.1
EXTERIOR ELEVATIONS
SHEET 1
3605 Sandy Plains Road
Suite 240-427
Marietta, GA 30066
Regie G. Elkins
phone: 770.856.5538
relkins@pga-llc.com
SUBMITTAL RECORD:
DATE DESCRIPTION
REVISION RECORD:
DATE DESCRIPTION
DRAWING DATE:
PROJECT NO:
SHEET TITLE:
SHEET NUMBER:
PROJECT NAME:
CLIENT:
SITE:
PROJECT MANAGER:
4-29-19 CLIENT REVIEW
EBENEZER UMC
GARDEN PROPERTY
EBENEZER UNITED
METHODIST CHURCH
12900 ARNOLD MILL ROAD
ROSWELL, GEORGIA 30075
CITY OF MILTON
3-26-19
.
5-7-19 CLIENT REVIEW
R & C Concepts - Regie Elkins
.
..
A2.2
EXTERIOR ELEVATIONS
SHEET 2
3605 Sandy Plains Road
Suite 240-427
Marietta, GA 30066
Regie G. Elkins
phone: 770.856.5538
relkins@pga-llc.com
SUBMITTAL RECORD:
DATE DESCRIPTION
REVISION RECORD:
DATE DESCRIPTION
DRAWING DATE:
PROJECT NO:
SHEET TITLE:
SHEET NUMBER:
PROJECT NAME:
CLIENT:
SITE:
PROJECT MANAGER:
4-29-19 CLIENT REVIEW
EBENEZER UMC
GARDEN PROPERTY
EBENEZER UNITED
METHODIST CHURCH
12900 ARNOLD MILL ROAD
ROSWELL, GEORGIA 30075
CITY OF MILTON
3-26-19
.
5-7-19 CLIENT REVIEW
R & C Concepts - Regie Elkins
.
..
REVISED
SITE PLAN
RECEIVED
3/16/20