Shown in photo from left to right: Culver Community School Corporation Superintendent Karen Shuman, Culver Plan Commission Don Fox, John Miller, Wayne Bean, Joel Samuelson, Andrew Strati, Dan Osborn, Barry McManaway, Chester Gut, Culver Town Manager Ginny Bess Munroe, and Building Commissioner Chuck DeWitt.
Article submitted by Jamie Fleury, The Pilot News Staff Writer
CULVER — The Culver Plan Commission held their April meeting in the Culver High School auditorium Tuesday evening due to substantial public response to the requested rezoning of 415 Lake Shore Drive from C-2 (Commercial) to PUD (Planned Unit Development.)
The board voted 8 – 0 in approval of the request which sends the request to the Culver Town Council which will have final authority over the matter.
Members present were President Barry McManaway, members Dan Osborn, Wayne Bean, Joel Samuelson, Secretary Don Fox, Chester Gut, Andrew Strati, and John Miller. Member Bob Cooper III was not present. Building Commissioner Chuck DeWitt was also present, along with Culver Town Manger Ginny Bess Munroe.
Public comment in-person, virtually and through written correspondence was communicated during the public hearing. More public input was stated in support of the residential project being developed by Mirar Custom Homes Inc.
Engineering Manager of Meca Engineering Corporation Stephen M. Stofko and Director of Finance and Marketing of Mirar Custom Homes Sara Jones were also present to answer questions.
In response to public feedback last month, the developer scaled down the initial project from seven residential town homes down to six, decreased overall density, and increased green space. The Technical Review Committee had already reviewed and approved concerns relating to storm water, utilities, and sewer issues.
Fox said, “The project has been modified considerably. The density of the development has been cut nearly in half.” Fox went to the Town Hall to review other technical issues and confirmed that the increased Green Space will actually decrease run-off. He noted that the facade will be attractive and that a multi-family project will benefit the community. He reviewed the site lines to ensure traffic safety. He expressed support for the project.
Miller noted traffic, parking, noise and smell issues and expressed approval for a residential project over a commercial project.
Samuelson noted several improvements made by the developer including the off street parking made available in the garage. He noted that a guard rail and speed bumps might be additional useful safety measures.
Osborn emphasized safety to the children and how measures have been made by the developer to address those concerns.
Gut spoke in favor of rezoning the plat from commercial to residential.
President McManaway expressed appreciation for those who attended the meeting. He clarified that ultimate approval for rezoning goes to the Town Council, but the Plan Commission is voting to recommend that the Town Council does approve the rezoning. He has served on the volunteer supported Plan Commission for 22 years. “I am trying to let people know that we are all citizens of Culver. I think there has been a lot of almost animosity toward people that are for it or against it.” He said that he does not like to see anyone belittled and that everyone has the right to their opinion. He clarified that PUD used to be multiple use but is now a commitment to a development that enhances the town according to the comprehensive plan; of which housing is a priority. He said that safety concerns are relevant, but noted that those have been addressed by the developer including traffic noting that the Chief of Police Wayne Bean serves on the Plan Commission.
Munroe confirmed after the meeting that a public hearing before the Culver Town Council will be scheduled providing ample time for all parties to be informed about their right to be present and be heard.
The Culver Town Council meets next on Tuesday, April 26 at 6:30 p.m. at the Culver Town Hall. Please note that the public hearing for this item will not be on the agenda for that meeting. Legal notices will be printed and the public will be informed in compliance with all statutory requirements prior to the public hearing.
The Culver Plan Commission is scheduled to meet next on Tuesday, May 17 at 6:30 p.m. at the Culver Town Hall.
