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HomeMy WebLinkAboutPRDA MINUTES 1999-09-16 MINUTES OF THE 99th REGULAR MEETING OF THE PLYMOUTH ROAD DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY OF THE CITY OF LIVONIA The 99th Regular Meeting of the Plymouth Road Development Authority of the City of Livonia, Michigan was called to order at 3:05 p.m., Thursday, September 16, 1999 at 31600 Plymouth Road at the Bill Faris property, formerly occupied by the Livonia Tire facility. Members Present: Mayor Jack E. Kirksey Mr. Michael Polsinelli, Chairman Mr. Raby,Vice Chairman Mr. Stan Anderson Mr. Scott Grace Mr. Bill Pike Ms. Toni Mette Mr. Lowell Peterson Mr. Marvin Walkon Mr. Jerry Wordhouse Mr. Dennis Kujawa Members Absent: Mr. Rod Crider-Excused Mr. Duane Wolfgang-Excused (ire Others Present : Mr. John Nagy, P.R.D.A. Director Mrs. Val Vandersloot, City Councilwoman—Tree City USA Mr. Edward C. Brown, Bill Brown Ford Mr. Bob Gunnigle, Bill Brown Ford Mr. John Murphy, Commercial Lawn Mower Mr. George LaForrest, Commercial Lawn Mower Ms. JoAnn Michaels, BRI Mr. Ralph Williams,Citizen Mr. Bill Craig, Citizen Mrs.Naimola(Naimola's Barber and Style Shop) Ms. Susan Annibal, Secretary Mr. Raby, the Vice Chairman opened the meeting, as Mr. Polsinelli was detained, but would be present later on. 1. Roll was called. Mr. Polsinelli, Chairman, arrived at 3:10 p.m. and assumed the Chair. 2. Adoption of the September 2, 1999 Minutes: On a motion duly made, seconded and unanimously adopted, it was #99-48 RESOLVED that the Minutes of the 98th Regular Meeting held by the Plymouth Road Development Authority on September 2, 1999 are approved. Mr. Polsinelli, Chairman, declared the motion is carried and the foregoing resolution adopted. 1 3. Val Vandersloot — Tree City USA: Mrs. Vandersloot, now serving on the City Council, was accompanied by Mr. Bill Craig, a champion for the environment and taking a firm stand for the preservation of trees in Livonia. At a recent meeting of the Tree City USA Committee, comprised of Mrs. Vandersloot, Mr. Craig, Ralph Magid, Superintendent of Public Services and citizens of the City, discussed the Plymouth Road Streetscape and the species of trees being planted along the Corridor. A topic of special interest was the subject of plantings that could create problems for sidewalks and diseases that would attack and destroy a complete tree species such as the American Elm. Certain standards were required of us as a Tree City USA; the City needed a tree ordinance. Among the requirements of a Tree City USA, was a requirement to hold an Arbor Day observance this year. As a member of the National Arbor Day group, Mr. Craig briefly gave an overview of available information about trees and their maintenance. Along the corridor, there were conflicts between trees and overhead lines and lighting; the landscape architect would have some challenges with the long-term vision P.R.D.A. has for the Corridor and what the appearance will be of the road 20 years from today as these trees reached maturity. Mr. Craig hoped the Board could help him understand what was planned, adding that he also hoped the landscaping would include more than just trees. As far as the possibility of disease with certain species, potentially all of those trees could be lost at one time. With the awareness that certain species are more disease prone, trees selected for the Plymouth Corridor planting include Purple Ash,Norway Maple and Honey Locust. The focus is presently on street trees only, with a maintenance system to be set up for tree care. A horticulturist would also be involved. Advantages for using the Streetscape species selected were noted. The subject of sidewalks and maturing trees was addressed; typically, trees weren't close enough to sidewalks to be an issue. Bio-diversity and natural materials was also a concern of Mr. Craig. Livonia has a good community program, recognized and having been awarded for doing more than required L in maintaining a beautiful community. The park entrance to the City at the corner of Plymouth and Inkster Roads was cited. Mr. Pike suggested that some trees be eliminated/cut down, particularly in front of the library between the curb and sidewalk, which blocked visibility of the new Plymouth Road lights. It was mentioned that the White Pine was the State of Michigan tree. There were improved varieties of Norway Maples,which was taken into consideration, as well as species availability is also a concern. 4. Bill Brown Ford — Terrace Theater Property: Bob Gunnigle and Ed Brown sought the Board's approval prior to a meeting with the City Planning Commission on September 21, 1999, re: the redevelopment of the Terrace Theater property to afford a dealership auto body shop and office using the parking lot and existing theater building. The former Terrace Theater building would house not only an auto body facility to be located at the rear, but new office space was planned for the front of the building. Used or "formerly leased" vehicles would be displayed in front of the renovated building in the parking lot. The proposed general site plan was displayed, the building would remain the present brick and stone. The Board was assured that no auto repair vehicles would be visible from Plymouth Road; the Board's consultant would be provided with the plan. Bill Brown's Petition 99-8-1-12 for a rezoning public hearing is appearing before the Planning Commission on September 21, 1999. Mr.Nagy clarified that Bill Brown sought the support of the P.R.D.A. for this change of zoning, with the idea that they might return to the Board later for the waiver use with formal plans, at which time more specific issues regarding the plan would be discussed. As soon as the dealership took ownership of the Terrace Theater property, they'd begin moving the used vehicles from the George Burns Theater parking lot, probably in the next six months. Mr. Peterson asked that the formal plans be made available to the Board as soon as possible. Mr. Gunnigle stated that from Plymouth Road one would see primarily used but well-maintained vehicles. There would be an office off to one side of the front of the building. The auto repair service would be in the back 2 On a motion by Mr. Wordhouse, seconded by Mr. Walkon, and approved, it was #99-49 RESOLVED,that the Plymouth Road Development Authority does hereby support the request for change of zoning from M-1 (Light Industrial)to C-2 (General Commercial) in the S.W. '/4 of Section 26 by Bill Brown Ford and located at 30400 Plymouth Road(the former Terrace Theater property). A roll call vote on the foregoing resolution resulted in the following: AYES: Kirksey, Polsinelli, Raby, Pike, Walkon, Peterson, Mette, Wordhouse,Grace NAYS: None ABSTAIN: Kujawa ABSENT: Crider, Wolfgang Mr. Polsinelli, Chairman, declared the motion is carried and the foregoing resolution adopted. 5. Commercial Lawn Mower—Former House of Maple and Pine Building: John Murphy and George LaForrest represented Commercial Lawn Mower, who had been in business for 21 years at Plymouth and Wayne Roads. The business was going to move the entire operation down to the House of Maple building, an 8600 s.f. facility. A rendering was provided to show the proposed structure, which would be renovated from the windows up. A new front façade and canopy would be constructed of standing seam metal going straight up and not pitched. A brick and steel overhang continuing around the corner of the building and down the side would be added. This meets with the codes (re: air conditioning units). The side of the wall would be landscaped between the petitioner's property and that of the City. Construction and landscaping would meet City requirements signage would be on the building and over the entrance canopy to City standards. It would be a tremendous face-lift for the City. Sidewalk was installed when beautification came through, leaving minimal space for any landscaping. If the sidewalk could be relocated, the petitioner was agreeable to putting landscaping in the freed-up green space — probably some Brickpavers, shrubs, trees, etc. Cars would park on the side of this building and face into the building. The petitioner's former facility was 2700 s.f. In the 21 years there they'd done two additions and need more room. Also, equipment could be displayed in the front window. The new facility would house the service department at the back and would be four times the size of the present building. The new space offered a step-up in that they'd be able to display products, which would change with the seasons. Projected move-in was probably mid- February, 2000. Possibly P.R.D.A. could spot improvements to allow for landscaping to occur at the same time. A turning problem at Wayne Road would be alleviated by the company's move to east down Plymouth Road. The matter of demolition costs or reimbursement was addressed. On a motion by Mr. Wordhouse, supported by Mr. Walkon, and approved, it was #99-50 RESOLVED that,the Plymouth Road Development Authority does hereby support the proposal by Commercial Lawn Mower to relocate their facility to 32098 Plymouth Road and the improvement plans to the site and the former structure known as the House of Maple and Pine. A roll call vote was taken on the foregoing resolution resulted in the following: 3 • AYES: Kirksey, Polsinelli,Raby, Pike, Walkon, Peterson, Mette, Wordhouse, Grace NAYS: None ABSTAIN: Kujawa ABSENT: Crider, Wolfgang 6. Beckett & Raeder Construction Progress Report: Controls were energized phases of the street lighting program. Light pole foundations were goingin from w for most Ann Arbor Road east of the south side of Plymouth Road. The light poles are 6 feet from the c b in some cases there is a side variance of two feet or so. Landscaping and electrical was was completed almost up to Ameritech on the north side of Plymouth Road. Farmington was the initial push, which was moved ahead. As soon as the lights and were in, they'd be putting in the sod. In response to a question Merriman and responsible to maintain those trees along the Corridor, which are under warrantyg electrical on browning trees, Irish d will be replaced if they perish within that period. The maintenance schedule is once peyear eek and if is not done, John Nagy will get back with them. With regard to the Mette drain, week pre- construction meeting was scheduled for the next week with John Hill of the City and set upwith the utilities. Irish is also responsible to be back with equipment to handle aproblema he Peregrine property. p rty. Banners are going up right away. The banner people have taken he bannn ers down and are storing them for us. New banners have been changed and are ready togo. has been heard from Wayne County and MDOT (on the bus shelters). Orchard Hiltz will involved on Middlebelt in the Fall, $108,000 for the work, which will involveNothing South sides West of Middlebelt. be the North and 7. Reports from Committees: Construction Committee: Mr. Pike said the Committee was anxious to get going on Phase IV, awaiting contact from MDOT and Wayne County so we can get going. Mr. Nagy has followed up on this. Public Relations: Mr. Anderson spoke to Sue Lang of Fisher Creative Services for planning the next newsletter and will be somewhat like the last time and will highlight a particularly attractive building. Perhaps, P.R.D.A. could consider an article or letter about possible assistance the Authority might be able to offer Corridor businesses, this matter was referred to the new Building Development Committee constituted at the last meeting. Other suggestions for the publication was a Board-sponsored event for Spring/Summer, as well as an updated introduction of some new tenants along the Corridor and some of the nicer things tenants have done. Vacant Buildings: Nothing new to report. Construction: Nothing new to report. Mr. Polsinelli had a phone call from the Livonia Symphony stating that they are looking for a place to use on gratis basis, a format they want to continue (possibly something in connection with the development of something for the Chamber of Commerce). Inspection: Having driven the Corridor a few days before, Mr. Raby reported the landscaping was in, but noted that on one light the fixture arm pointed away from the street because of conflict with electric lines. Mr. Wordhouse inquired about a pile of trees, lamps, etc.,just west of Bill Brown at the "oil change place" across from the library. Ms. Michaels said it is nothing resulting from our work in the area. 4 Mr. Polsinelli thanked Mr. Bill Faris for hosting our meeting and acknowledged LaShish had provided a Mid-Eastern buffet. Restaurant who Mrs. Barbara Naimola addressed the Board on several of her concerns including the landscaping in front of her family's business on Plymouth Road such as the lack of a tree being planted there and a curb installed at her place. Mr. Nagy assured that it will be a few more days before she can count on when she would get her curb, sidewalk and landscaping and water supply. Mrs. Naimola is referred to the Inspection Department about other problems. Answers to other questions will be forwarded later. 7. Director's Report: The Parade Committee is moving forward, the theme of the Holiday Parade is "Winter Wonderland" with an emphasis on Caroline this year, and will be held on November 20th with the same route as last year, mustering at the Ameritech building. The Fife and Drum Corps from Northville will perform. There will be various classes of judging this year. Awards to be bestowed at the Wonderland Food Court with an accompanying band there. Costs will be split 50:50 between P.R.D.A. and Wonderland for the entertainment. We're moving forward and making much progress. We have researched the minutes regarding the assistance we gave to the Plymouth Nursing Home and will turn it over to the Committee for their study. Lastly, is a contract for BRI, which is being turned over to the Construction Committee. When the lady was here from the SMART bus organization, we had asked her for a bus ridership count. Jeff Bryant investigated it and rode the line himself and has prepared a report. 8. Mayor's Report. The Mayor explained that the dirt in the George Burns Theaterar is part of our contract with the P.R.D.A. contract for Plymouth Road landscaping. It gistot being stockpiled there as a job site. The timeframe for putting in a right turn arrow was brought up. Mayor Kirksey announced the opening of the Legacy of Livonia restaurant. Seven Mile Road would be opening up from Farmington to Wayne Roads this Saturday. The Plymouth re-paving from Inkster to Farmington is a go; it will start next year and will be a major improvement for Plymouth Road, although very disruptive. There will be 1- 1/2" of asphalt and replacing it with 3" of new asphalt. Mr. Pike reminded the Board that during that time drivers be asked to keep their cars off the property from the sidewalk to the curb, due to the new sod and things in those areas. Perhaps some of the neighboring businesses would allow the workers to park in their parking lots. Toni Mette thanked Bill Faris for inviting the P.R.D.A. to his place of business. 9. Polling of Board Members: None. 10. Adjournment: On a motion duly made, seconded and unanimously adopted, the 99th Regular Meeting held by the Plymouth Road Development Authority on September 16, 1999 was adjourned at 5:00 p.m. The next meeting of the Plymouth Road Development Authority will be held on October 7, 1999 in the 4th Floor Conference Room of City Hall. /ac ,iteg Of Susan Annibal, Secretary 5