The regularly scheduled meeting of the Pooler Planning and Zoning Commission was held on Monday

The regularly scheduled meeting of the Pooler Planning and Zoning Commission was held on Monday, April 22, 2002 at 6 p.m. Members present were: Glenda Champion, Larry Olliff,

Craig Brewer, Fleta Pepper, Judson Trapnell and Holly Young. Zoning Administrator Jackie Carver, Mayor Carter, Councilwoman Billie Tyler, Councilmen Jack Brewton and Robert Bryan were also in attendance. Chairman Holly Young called the meeting to order at 6:05 p.m.

The minutes of the previous meeting were approved upon a motion made by Larry Olliff. Motion was seconded by Glenda Champion and passed without opposition.

PUBLIC HEARING:

SEDA’S request to rezone the Wall property in the northwest quadrant of I-16 and Dean Forest Road to Industrial Zoning. Craig Brewer excused himself from any discussion on this item due to a conflict of interest. Peggy Jolley of Savannah Economic Development Authority and Ralph Forbes of Thomas & Hutton Engineering Company presented this request for rezoning of the Wall property to the board for their review and recommendation. Ms. Jolley explained that she is working with the state to create a mega site for a project she is trying to bring to this area. However, if this project does not locate here, the state still would like to work with SEDA in creating a quality corporate campus that would be environmentally safe and pleasing for the community. Ralph Forbes pointed out on a map the areas proposed for rezoning. He explained that a fifty foot undisturbed buffer is designated along the southern boundary of the Country Homes Subdivision. The placement of a berm along this residentially zoned area was also discussed as an option. Councilwoman Billie Tyler stated that the residents of Country Homes Subdivision were worried that a landfill or dump could be placed behind Country Homes if the property is rezoned. Ms. Jolley assured the residents and the board members that they have no intention of using the property for that reason nor would the I-1, Light Industrial Zoning allow this use. Many residents from the Country Homes Subdivision were present to oppose this rezoning. Mark Stokes of 131 Baxley Road expressed his concerns about potential noise that may be generated by industrial uses. Gary Smith, an adjacent property owner, presented a petition with around 60 signatures opposing this rezoning. Mr. Smith stated that a proposed fifty foot buffer is not much for property owners that feel they live out in the country. The residents of Country Homes feel that they are being choked out and their quality of life is being threatened. Mr. Smith stated that the residents are opposed to any change in the zoning of the property that borders Country Homes to the south. Following some more discussion, a motion was made by Fleta Pepper to send this zoning petition onto Council without a recommendation from Planning and Zoning. Motion was seconded by Glenda Champion, but was denied with a vote of 3 to 2. A second motion was made by Fleta Pepper to approve the zoning petition as presented with the exception of the R-A zoned area behind Country Homes Subdivision would not be changed at this time. Motion was seconded by Larry Olliff and passed with Judson Trapnell opposing.

NEW BUSINESS:

2. Joseph Hambor’s request to place a decorative fence at 307 Gleason Avenue. Joseph and Fran Hambor are requesting approval of a decorative fence. The fence is 33” high and has 2(4’ x 4’ sections) at each corner of the property. With no public comment, a motion was made by Judson Trapnell to approve the request for a decorative fence at 307 Gleason Avenue. Motion was seconded by Craig Brewer and passed without opposition.

Bridgewater Subdivision, Phase 3 Final Plat Review and Approval. Hal Kraft of HGB&D presented the final plat for Phase 3, Bridgewater Subdivision to the board for their review and recommendation. The developer desires to record the subdivision plat prior to completion of the improvements. Therefore, the developer has posted a bond in the amount of $1,210,873.50 to cover full bonding of all the work. With no public comment, Judson Trapnell made a motion to approve the final plat of Phase 3, Bridgewater Subdivision. Motion was seconded by Larry Olliff and passed without opposition.

Discussion of sign ordinance regarding flashing lights/running boards with illuminated messages. This item was tabled from the last meeting. The board had been given sample ordinances from some other municipalities regarding this issue. None of the cities allowed flashing signs but each one differed with references to running lights and message boards. The board had been given a draft of the proposed changes for their review and comments. The board felt the definition of an “Electronic Message Board” should remain in the sign ordinance for clarification. Following some discussion, a motion was made by Judson Trapnell that the proposed changes be put in ordinance form for review by the City Attorney. Motion was seconded by Craig Brewer and passed without opposition.

There being no further business to come before the board, a motion of adjournment was made by Craig Brewer and seconded by Judson Trapnell.