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42-97 ORDINANCE NO. 42-97 AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF DELRAY BEACH, FLORIDA, AMENDING SECTION 4 . 4 . 6, "MEDIUM DENSITY RESIDENTIAL (RM) DISTRICT", OF THE LAND DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS OF THE CITY OF DELRAY BEACH, BY AMENDING SUBSECTION 4.4.6 (A) , "PURPOSE AND INTENT", TO CLARIFY THE INTENDED GOAL OF THE DISTRICT; AMENDING SUBSECTION 4.4.6 (H) , "SPECIAL REGULATIONS", TO PROVIDE FOR COMPLIANCE WITH PERFORMANCE STANDARDS IN ORDER TO EXCEED THE BASE DENSITY, AND TO PROVIDE INCREASED REQUIREMENTS FOR RECREATIONAL AMENITIES; ENACTING SUBSECTION 4.4.6(I), "PERFORMANCE STANDARDS", TO PROVIDE FOR SAID STANDARDS; AMENDING SECTION 4.3.4, "BASE DISTRICT DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS", TO PROVIDE INCREASED MINIMUM SQUARE FOOTAGE REQUIREMENTS FOR DWELLING UNITS IN THE RM ZONING DISTRICT; PROVIDING A GENERAL REPEALER CLAUSE, A SAVING CLAUSE, AND AN EFFECTIVE DATE. WHEREAS, pursuant to LDR Section 1.1.6, the Planning and Zoning Board reviewed the proposed text amendments at a public hearing on September 15, 1997, and forwarded a portion of the changes with a recommendation of approval; and WHEREAS, pursuant to LDR Section 1.1.6, the Planning and Zoning Board also forwarded a portion of the proposed amendments with a recommendation of denial; and WHEREAS, the City Commission of the City of Delray Beach finds that the text amendments are not inconsistent with and further the objectives and policies of the Comprehensive Plan. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF DELRAY BEACH, FLORIDA, AS FOLLOWS: Section 1. That Chapter Four, "Zoning Regulations", Article 4.4, "Base Zoning District", Section 4.4.6, "Medium Density Residential (RM) District", Subsection 4 .4.6(A) , "Purpose and Intent", of the Land Development Regulations of the City of Delray Beach, Florida, be, and the same is hereby amended to read as follows: Section 4.4.6 Medi%unDensity Residential (RM) District: (A) Purpose and Intent: The Medium Density Residential (RM) District provides a residential zoning district with flexible densities having a base of six (6) units per acre and a ~/~ maximum of twelve (12) units per acre. The actual density of a particular RM development is based upon its ability to achiev~ certain performance standards which are intended to mitigate the impacts of the increased density and ensure that the project is compatible with surrounding land uses. Further, the Medium Density Residential District provides for implementation of ~~ /~ ~~ /Zt~ those objectives and policies contained within the Housing Element of the Comprehensive Plan which calls for accommodating a variety of housing types. Section 2. That Chapter Four, "Zoning Regulations", Article 4.4, "Base Zoning District", Section 4.4.6, "Medium Density Residential (RM) District", Subsection 4.4.6(H), "Special Regulations", of the Land Development Regulations of the City of Delray Beach, Florida, be, and the same is hereby amended to read as follows: (H) Special Regulations: (1) A minimum density of six units per acre is established for duplex and multiple family housing projects within this district. Density may exceed the base of six (6) units per acre only ~/~ 11151 Ig6t I ¢1 1 after the approving body makes a finding that the project has substantially complied with performance standards as listed in 4.4.6(I). In no event shall a development's total density exceed 12 units per acre. The density for a specific RM development may be ~II~6~ further limited by a numerical suffix affixed to the designation and shown on the zoning map (i.e. RM-8 limits the density to eight units per acre). To seek a density greater than ~/~/~/~/~/~~/ allowed by the suffix, it is necessary to rezone the property. (2) Notwithstanding the above, a duplex may be situated upon a platted lot pursuant to Section 4.3.4(I) (3) (b). (3) tltll Recreational areas shall be. required for all new rental ~partment developments, and of owner OCCupied developments which hav~ homeowner associations that must care for retention areas, privat~ streets, or common areas. N~w developments must include recreational features that are designed to accommodate activities for children and youth of all age ranges. Tot lots are appropriate for toddlers; - 2 - Ord. No. 42-97 features such as a basketball court, volleyball court, and open playfields are appropriate for older children. A pool and clubhouse, unless specifically desiqned for children, is not considered to meet this requirement. Projects havinq fewer than twenty-five (25) units may be exempted from this standard where it is determined by the approvinq body that it is not practical or feasible to comply. (4) The height of accessory structures shall not exceed the height of the associated principal structure. Screen enclosures without a solid roof are excluded from this limit. (5) The floor area of an accessory structure shall not exceed 40% of the floor area of the principal structure. Section 3. That Chapter Four, "Zoning Regulations", Article 4.4, "Base Zoning District", Section 4.4.6, "Medium Density Residential (RM) District", of the Land Development Regulations of the City of Delray Beach, Florida, be, and the same is hereby amended by enacting a new Subsection 4.4.6(I), "Performance Standards", to read as follows: (I) Perfo~,~%nce Standards: (1) These standards shall apply to all site plans approved subsequent to October 7, 1997, and for modifications to existinq developments which involve the creation of additional residential units. In order to increase a project density beyond six (6) units per acre, the approvinq body must make a findinq that the development substantially complies with the performance standards listed in this section. The intent of the standards is to mitiqate the impacts of the additional density both internal and external to the site. The extent to which a project meets the standards will determine the number of units per acre that will be permitted. For example, if a project meets or exceeds all of the standards, and is otherwise consistent with applicable standards and policies of the City's Comprehensive Plan and Land Development Requlations, the maximum density is permitted. Projects which only partially achieve these standards will be permitted a correspondinqly lower density. The performance standards are as follows: - 3 - Ord. No. 42-97 (a) The traffic circulation system is designed to control speed and reduce volumes on the interior and exterior street network. This can be accomplished through the use of traffic calming devices; street networks consisting of loops and short segments; multiple entrances and exits into the development; and similar measures that are intended to minimize through traffic and keep speeds within the development at or below 20 m.p.h. (b) Buildings are placed throughout the development in a manner that reduces the overall massing, and provides a feeling open space. of (c) Where immediately adjacent to residential zoning districts having a lower density, building setbacks and landscape materials along those adjacent property lines are increased beyond the required minimums in order to provide a meaningful buffer to those lower density areas. Building setbacks are increased by at least 25% of the required minimum; at least one tree per 30 linear feet (or fraction thereof) is provided; trees exceed the required height at time of planting by 25% or more; and a hedge, wall or fence is provided as a visual buffer between the properties. (d) The development offers a varied streetscape and building design. For example, setbacks are staggered and offsets.. with varying roof heights (for multi-family buildings, the planes of the facades are offset to add interest and distinguish individual units). BUilding elevations incorporate diversity in window and door shapes and locations; features such as balconies, arches, porches, courtyards; and design elements such as shutters, window mullions, quoins, decorative tiles, etc. (e) A number of different unit types, sizes and floor plans are available within the development in order to accommodate households of various ages and sizes. Multi-family housing will at a minimum have a mix of one, two and three bedroom units with varying floor plans. Single family housing (attached and detached) will at a minimum offer a mix of three and four bedroom units with varying ~loor.plans. (f} The development is designed to preserve and enhance existing natural areas and/or water bodies. Where no such areas exist, new areas which provide open space and native habitat are created and incorporated into the project. (q) The project provides a convenient and extensive bicycle/pedestrian network, and access to available transit. - 4 - Ord. No. 42-97 (2) It is acknowledqed that some of the above referenced standards may not be entirely applicable to small, infill type residential projects. For those types of projects, the ultimate density should be based upon the attainment of those standards which are applicable, as well as the development's ability to meet or exceed other minimum code requirements. (3) For vacant property that is proposed for rezoninq to RM with a density suffix, the approvinq body must make a findinq that the proposed density is appropriate based upon the future land use map desiqnations of surroundinq property as well as the prevailing development pattern of the surroundinq area. Section 4. That Chapter Four, "Zoning Regulations", Article 4.3, "District Regulations, General Provisions", Section 4.3.4, "Base District Development Standards", Subsection 4.3.4(K), "Development Standards Matrix", of the Land Development Regulations of the City of Delray Beach, Florida, be, and the same is hereby amended to read as follows: DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS MATRIX - RESIDENTIAL ZONING DISTRICTS (1) Minimum Floor Area for Duplexes and Multifamily Dwelling Units Duplexes 1,000 sq.ft._* Efficiency 400 sq.ft. One Bedroom 600 sq.ft. Two Bedroom 900 sq.ft. Three Bedroom ~ 1~250 sq.ft Four Bedroom ~/~ 1,500 sq.ft. *Represents absolute minimum size. Must also comply with minimums for correspondinq number of bedrooms. Section 5. That all ordinances or parts of ordinances in conflict herewith be, and the same are hereby repealed. Section 6. That should any section or provision of this ordinance or any portion thereof, any paragraph, sentence, or word be declared by a court of competent jurisdiction to be invalid, such decision shall not affect the validity of the remainder hereof as a whole or part thereof other than the part declared to be invalid. Section 7. That this ordinance shall become effective immediately upon its passage on second and final reading. - 5 - Ord. No. 42-97 PASSED AND ~OPTED in regular session on second and final reading on this the 7th day of October , 1997. ATTEST: ~ City ~erk First Reading Septe~er 23, 1997 Second Reading October 7, 1997 " - 6 - Ord. No. 42-97 MEMORANDUM TO: MAYOR AND CITY COMMISSIONERS FROM: ~ITY MANAGER SUBJECT: AGENDA ITEM #/0.~.- REG~ MEETING OF OCTOBER 7, 1997 LDR AMENDMENTS RE: RM ZONING DISTRICT STANDARDS (ORDINANCE NO. 41-97 / ORDINANCE NO. 42-97) DATE: OCTOBER 2, 1997 Attached is documentation from the Plannin9 Department concerning proposed amendments to the Medium Density Residential (RM) zoning district. The Planning and Zoning Board formally considered these amendments on September 15, 1997. The Board voted 6 to 0 to recommend approval of the amendments which provide for performance standards and increased requirements for recreational amenities. By a 4 to 2 vote, the Board voted to recommend that the amendments to the Development Standards Matrix which would increase the minimum dwelling unit sizes be denied. In view of the Planning and Zoning Board's recommendation, two ordinances have been prepared for the Commission's consideration. Ordinance No. 41-97 reflects only those amendments recommended for approval by the P&Z Board. Ordinance No. 42-97 reflects the amendments for both performance standards and increased requirements for recreational amenities, as well as increased minimum square footage requirements for dwelling units. At first reading on September 23, 1997, the Commission passed both ordinances by unanimous vote for the purpose of accepting public comment at a public hearing prior to final consideration. I recommend that the City Commission accept the Planning and Zoning Board's recommendation to approve Ordinance No. 41-97 and deny Ordinance No. 42-97 on second and final reading. MEMORANDUM TO: MAYOR AND CITY COMMISSIONERS FROM: ~CITY Mh_NAGER SUBJECT: AGENDA ITEM #/~ REGULAR MEETING OF SEPTEMBER 23, 1997 LDR AMENDMENTS RE: RM ZONING DISTRICT STANDARDS (ORDINANCE NO. 41-97 / ORDINANCE NO. 42-97) DATE: SEPTEMBER 19, 1997 Attached is documentation from the Planning Department concerning proposed amendments to the Medium Density Residential (RM) zoning district. The Planning and Zoning Board formally considered these amendments on September 15, 1997. The Board voted 6 to 0 to recommend approval of the amendments which provide for performance standards and increased requirements for recreational amenities. By a 4 to 2 vote, the Board voted to recommend that the amendments to the Development Standards Matrix which would increase the minimum dwelling unit sizes be denied. In view of the Planning and Zoning Board's recommendation, two ordinances have been prepared for the Commission's consideration. Ordinance No. 41-97 reflects only those amendments recommended for approval by the P&Z Board. Ordinance No. 42-97 reflects the amendments for both performance standards and increased requirements for recreational amenities, as well as increased minimum square footage requirements for dwelling units. Commission discretion is recommended. ref:agmemo6 TO: DAVID T. HARDEN, CITY MANAGER ~'~ ~ ~ FROM: DIANE DOMINGUEZ, PLANNING AND ZONING DIRECTOR ~ SUBJECT: CITY COMMISSION MEETING OF SEPTEMBER 23, 1997 LDR AMENDMENTS RE: RM ZONING DISTRICT STANDARDS The action requested of the City Commission is approval of amendments to Land Development Regulations (LDR) Section 4.4.6, Medium Density (RM) Zoning District; and consideration of amendments to Section 4.3.4, Development Standards Matrix, regarding minimum unit sizes. The RM zoning district currently provides for a density range of 6 to 12 dwelling units per acre. The basis for determining the appropriate density is a finding that the development is "harmonious with adjacent properties." The proposed amendment would provide performance standards for evaluating whether or not a particular density is appropriate. The standards are intended to result in a project design that will mitigate the impacts of the additional units. The amendments also propose additional requirements for recreational facilities, and an increase in the minimum square footage of 3- and 4-bedroom units. The attached Planning and Zoning Board staff report provides a more detailed description and analysis of the changes. The P & Z Board considered these amendments at its meeting of September 15, 1997. There was no public testimony regarding the changes. The Board voted as follows: · Approval (6-0) of amendments to the RM district, providing for performance standards and increased requirements for recreational amenities. ·Denial (4-2) of amendments to the Development Standards Matdx which would increase the minimum dwelling unit sizes. By separate motion, · Approve the amendments to LDR Section 4.6.6, RM Zoning District, as attached. · Deny the amendment to LDR Section 4.3.4, regarding minimum unit sizes. Attachments: · P & Z Staff report of 9/15/97, including proposed amendments MEETING OF: SEPTEMBER 15, 1997 AGENDA ITEM: V.F. AMENDMENT TO LAND DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS SECTIONS 4.4.6 MEDIUM DENSITY (RM) ZONING DISTRICT; AND 4.3.4 DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS MATRIX Last year, as part of the preparation of the North Federal Highway Redevelopment Plan, staff developed standards and regulations for a new zoning district, RH, High Density Residential. The district established performance standards that would have to be met if the project density were to exceed twelve units per acre. While the zoning district was ultimately not passed, the City Commission directed that similar performance standards be incorporated into the RM (Medium Density Residential) zoning district regulations. Other comments have been made in the past regarding the need to increase the requirements for recreational amenities, and the need to increase minimum unit sizes. The proposed amendment was initially discussed at the June 9, 1997 workshop meeting of the Planning and Zoning Board. Modifications have been made in the interim to better clarify some of the standards. The proposed strike-through and underlined version of the amendment is attached. The current development standards for the RM zoning district provide for a range in densities from a minimum of six (6) units per acre to a maximum of twelve (12) units per acre. In order to exceed the base density, a finding must be made by the approving body (in most cases, the Site Plan Review and Appearance Board), that the resulting development is harmonious with adjacent properties. This standard is vague and somewhat arbitrary, and has at times created difficulties in its implementation. The proposed amendment would create a set of performance standards that must be met in order to increase density beyond the minimum. The standards are intended to lessen the impact of the additional density by requiring measures to control traffic speeds and volume, reduce the overall mass of the structures through better design, and ensure compatibility with adjacent development through increased setbacks and buffers. In addition, the standard for recreational amenities has been amended to require that facilities be provided for children of all age ranges. Planning and Zoning Board Staff Report LDR Amendments - 4.4.6 (RM); 4.3.4 (Matrix) Page 2 The standards will be applicable to all future projects developed under the RM zoning standards, and to existing projects that are proposing to add new units. Smaller infill type projects may be exempted from some of the standards, but will be made to comply with those that are feasible to implement. The performance standards provide for a more objective means of determining the appropriate density for a project. It was suggested at the workshop that the density suffix be eliminated in lieu of the standards, however, the board did not give definitive direction regarding that proposal. Given the fact that there are already several projects in town that were developed under a density suffix, it is probably appropriate to maintain it as an option, but to discourage its application in the future. Another issue that has been previously discussed involves the minimum square footage requirements for dwelling units in the RM zoning district. In particular, there is some sentiment that the minimum square footage of 1,350 for a four (4) bedroom unit is not sufficient. At the June workshop, staff pointed out the following: Delray's minimums exceed those of Boca Raton and Boynton Beach; that projects recently approved in Delray Beach have exceeded the required minimums; and that none of the recent projects have included 4-bedroom units. There is also a concern that increasing the minimum square footages will likely cause some of the older multi-family developments in the City to become nonconforming. It is impossible to determine the degree to which that would occur without conducting an extensive study of condominium and rental projects throughout the City. If the Board feels strongly that the existing regulations are insufficient, it is suggested that the existing minimums be increased only for 3 and 4-bedroom units. The current minimums for efficiency, 1-bedroom, and 2-bedroom units are adequate to accommodate the 1 and 2 person households which typically occupy them. Efficiency 400 400 1 Bedroom 600 600 2 Bedroom 900 900 3 Bedroom 1,150 1,250 4 Bedroom 1,350 1,500 Planning and Zoning Board Staff Report LDR Amendments - 4.4.6 (RM); 4.3.4 (Matrix) Page 3 1. ,Amendments to LDR Section 4.4.6. Medium Density_ (RM) Zoning Distdct (Performance Standards) By motion, recommend to the City Commission approval of the amendments to LDR Section 4.4.6, Medium Density (RM) Zoning District, based on a finding that the proposed performance standards will provide more objective criteria for determining the ultimate density of a particular development project, and will help to mitigate the impacts of increased density. 2. Amendments to LDR Section 4.3.4. Development Standards Matdx - Residential Zoning Districts (Minimum Unit Sizes) Board discretion. Attachments: · Proposed Amendment to Section 4.4.6 · Proposed Amendment to Section 4.3.4(K) s'Jreports/pzrmldr.doc Planning and Zoning Board Staff Report LDR Amendments - 4.4.6 (RM); 4.3.4 (Matrix) Page 4 PROPOSED AMENDMENTS TO THE RM ZONING DISTRICT Section 4.4.6 Medium Density_ Residential (RM) District: (A) Purpose andlntent:The Medium Density Residential (RM) Distdct provides a residential zoning district with flexible densities have a base of six (6) units per acre and a r-aPse-re maximum of twelve (12) units per acre. The actual density of a particular RM development is based upon its ability to achieve certain ~ Stan(Jards Which 'a~gate the impacts of the increased density and ensure that the project is compatible with surrounding land uses. Further, the Medium Density Residential Distdct provides for implementation of prcv!c!c,-,~ cf Cc=! ,~,m= "C" ,.~ ,k,. Ccmprchcnc!vc o~ .... '~ "-"'-c .... ~""-"" '~'~""*~'"- C. 2 those obiectives and policies contained within the Housing Element of the Comprehensive Plan which calls for accommodating a variety of housing types. [Subsections B through G - no change] (H) Special Regulations (1) A minimum density of six units per acre is established for duplex and multiple family housing projects within this district. Density may exceed the base density of six (6) units per acre only ...... ""~ ........ after the aDDrovina body makes a findino that the oroie~ ha-~ substantially complied with performance standards as listed in 4.4.8(I). In no event shall a development's total density_ exceed 12 units per acre, The density for a specific RM development may be ee~b~el~t-~ by a numerical suffix affixed to the designation and shown on the zoning map (i.e. RM-8 limits the density to eight units per acre). To seek a density greater than allowed by the suffix, it is necessary to rezone the property. (2) Notwithstanding the above, a duplex may be situated upon a platted lot pursuant to Section 4.3.4(I)(3)(b). Planning and Zoning Board Staff Report LDR Amendments - 4.4.6 (RM); 4.3.4 (Matrix) Page 5 ,,,~,,..,....,.,.,., .............. /,'~eD A,~ -~ Rec eational shall be reouired for ~. ........ r areas all new rental apartment developments, and of owner occupied developments which have homeowner associations that must care for retention areas, private streets, or common areas. New developments must include recreational features that are designed to accommodate activities for children and youth of all age ranges. Tot lots are appropriate for toddlers: features such as a basketball court, volleyball court, and open pla.vflelds are appropriate for older children. A .DOOI and clubhouse, unless specifically designed for children, is not considered to meet this requirement. Pro!ects having fewer than twerlty-five (25) units may be exempted from this standard where it is determined by the approving body that it is not practical or feasible to comply. (4) The height of accessory structures shall not exceed the height of the associated principal structure. Screen enclosures without a solid roof are excluded from this limit. (5) The floor area of an accessory structure shall not exceed 40% of the floor area of the principal structure. (I) Performance Standards: 1. These standards shall apply to all site plans approved subsec!uent to (date of adoption of the ordinance): and for modifications to existing developments which involve the creation of additional residential units. In order to increase a pro_iect density, beyond six (six) units per acre. the approving body must make a finding that the development substantially complies with the performance standards listed in this section. The intent of the standards is to mitigate the impacts of the additional density, both internal and external to the site. The extent to which ~ pro_iect meets the standards will determine the number of units per acre that will be permitted. For example, if a pro_iect meets or exceeds all of the standards, and is otherwise consistent with applicable standards and policies of the City's Comprehensive Plan and Land Development Regulations. the maximum density_ is permitted. Pro_iects which only partially achieve these standards will be permitted a correspondingly lower density_. The performance standards are as follows: a) The traffic circulation system is designed to control speed and reduce volumes on the interior and extedor street network. This can be accomplished through the use of traffic calming devices: street networks consisting of loops and short segments: multiple entrances and exits into the development: and similar measures that are intended to minimize through traffic and keep speeds within the development at or below 20 m.p.h. Planning and Zoning Board Staff Report LDR Amendments - 4.4.6 (RM); 4.3.4 (Matrix) Page 6 Buildings are placed throughout the development in a manner that reduces the overall massing, and provides a feeling of open space. .r,_)_ Where immediately ad!acent to residential zoning districts having a lower density_. building setbacks and landscape materials along those ad!acent property, lines are increased beyond the required minimums in order to provide a meaningful buffer to those lower density, areas. Building setbacks are increased by at least 25% of the ree. uired minimum: at least one tree per 30 linear feet (or fraction thereof), is provided: trees exceed the ree. uired height at time of planting by 25% or more: and a hedge, wall, or fence is provided as a visual buffer between the properties. .d_)_ The development offers a varied streetscape and building design. For example. setbacks are staggered and offset, with varying roof heights (for multi-family buildings;, the planes of the facades are offset to add interest and distinguish individual units), Building elevations incorporate diversity_ in window and door shapes and locations: features such as balconies, arches, porches, courtyards: and design elements such as shutters, window mullions, e. uoins, decorative tiles, etc. A number of different unit types, sizes, and floor plans are available within the development, in order to accommodate households of various ages and sizes. Multi-family housing will at a minimum have a mix of one. two. and three bedroom units, with varying floor plans. Single family housing (attached and detached) will at a minimum offer a mix of three and four bedroom units, with varying floor plans. -0- The development is designed to preserve and enhance existing natural areas and/or water bodies. Where no such areas exist, new areas which provide open space and native habitat are created and incomorated into the pro!ect. The pro_iect provides a convenient and extensive bicycle/pedestrian network, and access to available transit, 2. It is acknowledged that some of the above referenced standards may not be entirely applicable to small, infill type residential pro_iects. For those types of pro_iects. the ultimate density_ should be based upon the attainment of those standards which are applicable, as well as the development's ability_ to meet or exceed other minimum code reguirements. 3. For vacant property_ that is proposed for rezoning to RM with a density_ suffix, the approving body must make a finding that the proposed density_ is appropriate based upon the future land use map designations of surrounding property_, as well as the prevailing development pattern of the surrounding area, Planning and Zoning Board Staff Report LDR Amendments - 4.4.6 (RM); 4.3.4 (Matrix) Page 7 PROPOSED AMENDMENTS TO MINIMUM UNIT SIZES (LDR Section 4.3.4) (K) Develo_~ment Standards Matrix DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS MATRIX - RESIDENTIAL ZONING DISTRICTS (1) Minimum Floor Area for Duplexes and Multifamily Dwelling Units Duplexes 1,000 sq. ft. * Efficiency 400 sq. ft. One Bedroom 600 sq. ft. Two Bedroom 900 sq. ft. Three Bedroom ~.,~.50 1.250 sq. ft. Four Bedroom ~, ,350 1.500 sq. ft. * Represents absolute minimum size. Must also com.Dly with minimums for corresponding number of bedrooms. PROGRESSIVE RESIDENTS OF DELRAY POST OFFICE BOX 1301 DELRAY BEACH, FL. 33447 HOT LIHE 561-266-9400 FAX: 561-498-8909 july i7, i997 Mr. William Schwartz, Chairman & Planning Board Members Planning & Zoning Board City Hali, i00 NW, i st Ave, Deiray Beach, Fi. 33445 Dear Mr. Schwartz, I am writing you as President of Progressive Residents of Deiray, to give you our suggestions for the proposed changes in the Medium Density Residential zoning district. We are very happy to see that recreation facilities for children of ali ages have now been included, it is very gratifying to see that the whole ordinance has been clarified as to the density allowed and the necessary steps that are required to increase it. We are however, concerned that the minimum size of the units has not been changed in any way. At the planning work shop the reason given was that we needed to allow for affordable housing. It has always been our contention that Dekay needs a balance in the various types of housing. Recently i received an extensive report bom the county planning staff on Transfer of Development Rights. Their Government information Services map snowing the areas of the county in terms of balance of housing, shows Delray as having an some balance but with a higher incidence of low and very Iow owner occupied households. Our comprehensive plan clearly states that we are in need of more middle class owner occupied housing and that we need more family oriented housing to achieve a balance in our schools. In order to keep enough units that not only pay for themselves but also pay enough to make up for those that do not we must be sure that other than infil[ we build more units that will increase our tax base. When we build apartments with tach vet)' !ow minimum square footage for three and four bedroom units we are in fact building more apartments for empty nesters because they will not be satisfactory for families. Staff claims that it doesfft matter because "no one builds to those minimums'". We cannot understand why if these numbers are so unrealistic why .. they should not be changed. Anything that is built to these dimensions will certainly not be " need more upscale housing in any new construction unless it is to replace clearly blighted units in the CRA area and even in that area also we should be encouraging a mix of housing. We urge you to consider increasing the minimum size of the three and ibur bedroom units. ~ Sincereiy, ff~,~,..~ ~ Jean Beer, Pres. · & PU~IC HEARING will I~ ~ o~ k ~ d I:l a.m. ~ S:~ ~.m., ~ ~ THE CITY OF ~LRAY ~H, FLORIDA. MENDING SEC. ~NT~AL (RM) DISTRICT, M THE ~D ~VELOP~NT T~S ~ THE C~TY ~ ~LRAY ~, BY MND~ SUSSEC- ~, TO C~RIFY THE INTEN~ ED GO~ ~ THE DISTRICT ~ND~NG ~BSECTI~ ~CIAL REGU~TION~, TO PRG VI~ FOR ~PMANCE WITH ~RF~CE STARDARDS M~R TO EXCEED THE ~E~ED REQUiREmENtS FOR IECREATI~AL MENIT~ES, EN ~ING SUBSECTION ~IF~WNCE ST&NDARgS', ?0 ~IDE FOR ~D STANDARD~ ~ID~ A ~NER~L REPE~- ~ ~USE, A ~VING ~ AN EFFE~J~ ~ M ~DtNANCE ~ ~E CI~ C~ ~1~ M THE C~TY ~ ~LRAY ~ ~CH, FL~I~. ~NDING SEC- ~ffTl~ {RM~ DISTRiCt, ~ THE ~D ~VEL~MEHT ~ ~ THE CI~ ~ ~LRAY ~, IY ~NDIgG SUBSEC. ~ ~A), ~R~E AND ~N~, TO ~RIFY THE INTEND- ~ ~L ~ THE D~STP~CT. ~NDING ~BSECTION ~CI~ REGU~T~S~, TO VI~ ~ ~PLIANCE ~ITH ~R TO EXCEED THE BASE ~ITY, ~D TO ~OVl~ ~D ~E~IR~ENTS ~EATI~ ~N~TfES; ~BF~NCE STAN~RDS', TO i~RICT M~ENT STAN- ~, TO ~IDE I~REASED ~g~ ~E ~TAGE RE- ~NTS ~ ~LLING ~ IN THE ~ ~ING ~R ~U~, A ~V~NG , ~ ~ EFFECTIVE · ~ ~RAY