23 Chairman Lichtenfeld asked staff about the waivers the applicant is requesting.

Anna Krane explained that the step-back (recess) requirement above the 3rd story helps reduce the towering effect; a waiver from that requirement can be approved by the Board of Aldermen through the PUD process.

Ms. Smith noted how prominent this corner property is and how important it is to have a gracious and welcoming corner.

Richard Smith, 8025 Maryland Avenue, noted that 60 to 65 of the units in their building (Maryland Walk) face south and as such, this building will have an enormous impact on them.

Chairman Lichtenfeld reiterated that this public hearing will be continued until December 18th.

Susan Istenes explained that the proposed plat adjusts two property boundary lines to dedicate 1,456 square feet to public right-of-way. The right-of-way dedication will widen the existing east- west and north-south alleys from 20 feet wide to the City standard 24 feet wide. The adjusted lot will measure 36,089 square feet. Director Istenes stated that staff recommends approval of the plat to the Board of Aldermen with the following conditions:

Subdivision Ordinance requirements after Board of Aldermen approval;

Hearing no further questions or comments, Ron Reim made a motion to continue all four items for this project until the December 18th, 2017 meeting. The motion was seconded by Scott Wilson and unanimously approved by the members.

******************************************************************************* A brief discussion took place regarding the possibility of cancelling the regularly scheduled meeting of December 4th; staff informed the members that a decision would be made and the members would be informed if the meeting is cancelled.

24 Director Istenes reminded the members about the upcoming Lunch & Learn being held on December 12th.

Chairman Lichtenfeld, referring to the 8049 Forsyth site, commented that the only other “L” shaped lot in the area is the Carrolton Bank lot and that he is not sure that the properties that currently contain the small buildings to the east and west are developable. He asked staff if the City can require larger areas to be developed, as he believes that the City will be harming itself if not.

Craig Owens indicated that the process getting this {city-owned} property to this point of having a development proposal has been a long one.

Ron Reim noted that there is clear tension between the parties involved and the neighbors.

Scott Wilson asked how many RFP (request for proposals) responses the City received.

Craig Owens replied “4”.

Scott Wilson asked if the RFP was for the entire block.

Craig Owens indicated that the City encouraged neighbors to work together toward a development proposal.

Ron Reim voiced concern about leftover parcels being impossible to develop; he noted parking is tough. He questioned if KP owns all those parcels.

William Liebermann referred to the issue of economics.

Joanne Boulton complimented staff on their hard work regarding this project.

Chairman Lichtenfeld concurred.

Having no further business before the Commission this evening, the meeting adjourned at 8:35 p.m.

_______________________________ Recording Secretary