Citation in context
March 3, 2016 — Meeting Minutes
Cited passage
8
Mr. DeGagne replied “yes”.
Mel Disney commented that more information helps them (the Board) make decisions.
Rick Bliss referred to the application for zoning review.
Louis Clayton stated that Carondelet is where the work is being proposed (demo and rebuild).
Chairman Soule asked what the result would be if the setback was met.
Mr. DeGagne stated that the building would be 650 square feet smaller than proposed.
Chairman Soule asked if the building is already non-conforming with the front yard setback.
Louis Clayton replied “yes”.
Chairman Soule asked if the increase in considered minimal.
Louis Clayton replied “yes”.
Chairman Soule asked for confirmation that it is uncommon for older buildings and Planned Unit Developments to meet established FARs or the 10-foot front yard setback.
Louis Clayton confirmed.
Chairman Soule asked if staff believes that air and light will not be negatively impacted by this proposal.
Louis Clayton indicated that he was correct.
Hearing no further questions or comments, Anne Bishop made a motion to approve the variances as requested. The motion was seconded by Liza Streett and unanimously approved by the Board.
Staff informed the members that there will be a meeting in April.
Chairman Soule indicated that he will be out of town on April 7th.
Being no further business for this Board of Adjustment this evening, the meeting adjourned at 6:25 p.m.
_________________________ Recording Secretary
Chairman Soule asked the applicant if he had any objections to these exhibits being made part of the record. Mr. DeGagne replied “no”. Chairman Soule indicated that these exhibits would be made part of the record. Mr. DeGagne stated that Capital Grill is very excited to come to Clayton, noting that J. Buck’s recently closed. He stated that the structure is circular which, in terms of design, flow and seat count, doesn’t work for Capital Grill; the major issue being seat count. He noted this will be a fine dining establishment and they want to accommodate as many patrons as possible, adding that customers stay up to two hours to enjoy the fine dining experience; they are not in and out. He stated that he has been with Darden for 16 years and knows them very well and they want everything perfect. A site plan was presented. Mr. DeGagne stated that the existing structure contains stone columns and all they are proposing to do is square-off the building which requires approval of an 8.4-foot variance (from the 10-foot front yard setback requirement). He stated that they are asking for a Floor Area Ratio (FAR) of 4.76, noting that the current FAR is 4.74; a difference of only 200ths. He concluded by respectfully asking for the approvals. Mr. Fuse stated that the overall change is to appeal to the Plaza in Clayton and Pierre LaClede buildings. He stated that they are excited about this new tenant. Mel Disney asked if any alternatives were considered. Mr.
Mel Disney asked if any alternatives were considered. Mr. DeGagne indicated that they tried three alternatives but none worked; they couldn’t get the design to meet their standard of excellence to work. Mel Disney asked about building materials. Mr. DeGagne stated that they will use materials that complement the existing façade. Mel Disney asked if the drawing the Board members received is the only one available.