Planning and Zoning Board
Minutes
Thursday, January 18, 2007
7:00 p.m.
The Blowing Rock Planning and Zoning Board met on Thursday, January 18, 2007 for their regular scheduled meeting. Chairman West called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. Members present were Nelda Miller, Albert Yount, Sue Sweeting and Jim Steele. Members absent were Web Alexander and Ron Mace. Staff members present were Planning Director Kevin Rothrock, and Administrative Assistant Sherrie Pitts.
Ms. Sweeting made a motion to approve the minutes as presented,
seconded by Mr. Yount. All members were in favor of the motion.
Mr. Rothrock gave an update on the study regarding regulating newspaper and magazine racks. Enclosed in the board packet was a map for review indicating some possible locations for newspaper and magazine racks. Mr. Rothrock also discussed photos of the racks in town and photo ideas of racks from other areas. The Planning Board may want to consider requiring racks on public sidewalks as well as private property to be of a uniform color with an advertising panel on the door.
Chairman West asked if there was a limit on the number of stands allowed on the sidewalks at this time. Mr. Rothrock stated that at this time they are policing themselves.
Mr. Steele commented that he sees two problems. First, there is no control to the number of units. Second, units are on public property that can create a safety hazard to pedestrians.
Mr. Yount stated a concern about responsibility and liability of the racks on the public sidewalk.
With no other comment or questions the floor was opened to the public.
Mr. Brad Gross, with The Real Estate Book, commented on the condo boxes that some areas are using now and how they are a solution in some larger cities. Mr. Gross stated that the smaller plastic boxes hold up better in weather and salt than the metal condo boxes do. He said that he had found in taking away the individual boxes and colors that the movement of the information books dropped dramatically. In reference to the liability issue most franchise owners do have insurance.
Ms. Karen Brown, franchise owner of Homes and Land, spoke and described their magazine circulation. Ms. Brown also said that they try to keep subdued colors for the boxes and they do keep up the maintenance on them. She also stated that they would like to meet with the realtors to help create a solution to this issue.
Mr. Yount, board member, stated that no one wants to damage anyone’s business and it would be better for everyone to have coordinated locations.
With no other questions or comments the floor closed.
Mr. Rothrock gave a brief update on landscape and tree ordinance information. He commented in single-family zoning limiting the topping of trees as an option. In the commercial property zones prohibiting the topping and rounding of trees is being discussed.
With no questions or comments the floor was opened to the public.
Mr. Chad Michael, arborist consultant, commented on tree cutting and pruning. Mr. Michael advised he would be glad to help with information on this issue.
With no questions or comments the floor closed.
Adjourn
Ms. Sweeting made a motion to adjourn. Ms. Miller seconded the motion. All members were in favor of the motion.
With no further business the Planning Board adjourned at 8:09 PM.
______________________________ ______________________________
Jim West, Chairman Sherrie Pitts, Administrative Assistant