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HomeMy WebLinkAbout10-12-1993 MINUTES OF THE PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING HELD TUESDAY, OCTOBER 12, 1993 CALL TO ORDER: The meeting was called to order by Acting Chairman Switzer at 7:30 p.m. followed by a moment of silent meditation and the Pledge of Allegiance. The determination of a quorum was made. PRESENT: Acting Chairman Switzer, Members: Jim Swickerath, Louis Landefeld, Tanya Miller, Pat Bond, Ralph Jones, Alternates: Rob McKey and Dan Draia Director of Planning Russell Wagner, Economic Development Coordinator Bruce Behrens and Deputy Clerk Ellen King ABSENT: Member: Darlene Rhodus CONSENT AGENDA: A. Minutes of the Regular Planning and Zoning Commission Meeting of September 14, 1993 Commissioner Landefeld moved to approve the Minutes of September 14, 1993, seconded by Commissioner Miller and the motion carried unanimously. NEW BUSINESS: CASE NO. 1- 5SE- 93:ST. PAUL'S APPLICATION FOR SPECIAL EXCEPTION FOR A SCHOOL IN AN R -3 ZONE Bruce Behrens, former Planning Director, presented the issue to the Commission because of his familiarity with the project. Mr. Behrens read over the Staff Report of September 30, 1993. The issue being, "Should the Planning and Zoning Commission recommend to the Board of City Commissioners to approve an application for a Special Exception to allow a permanent school use in an R -3 Zone ?" On September 15, 1992, the Central Florida Community School received a Special Exception for one -year to operate a school with enrollment limited to forty (40) students. On August 30, 1993, Rev. Bryan Stamper, Pastor of St. Paul's Presbyterian Church, submitted a Special Exception Application for their lessee, Central Florida Community School, to operate a firâ–º permanent "private school for children not reaching their potential in traditional education setting ". Planning and Zoning Commission Regular Meeting October 12, 1993 Page 2 On September 7, 1993, the one -year time period for the Special Exception for the school was extended by the City Commission until November 15, 1993 to give Staff, Planning and Zoning Commission, and City Commission time to review and evaluate this request. The school applied in 9/92 for non - profit status...Mr. Flander has been waiting for an approval. Acting Chairman Switzer opened the Public Hearing. After no discussion from the audience the Public Hearing was closed. Commissioner Landefeld commented that one year ago no more than 40 students were to be approved for the Church site during a request for a Special Exception. He questioned the status of the school/ warehouse building located on Hemple in Winter Garden that was to be updated. Mr. Bob Flander, Director of Central Florida Community School, 368 Cypress Landing, Seminole County, was present and stated that he still has that site located on Hemple in Winter Garden. The school plans to maintain the lease, and anticipates putting up a small barn with a riding stable and incorporating that into the curriculum. At the present time the school does not intend to use the Hemple property for school classrooms. Acting Chairman Switzer asked what the school's long range goals are. Mr. Flander commented that there education program has such a broad mission that there will always be some connection with the Church. The request for a permanent special exception would be indefinite because of the good relation the school has established with the Church. The Church sets a tone for the students, and they have respect for the religious nature of the school. Even though the school is non - sectarian and the school does not subscribe to any Christian curriculum they do maintain a high moral attitude. What happens in five years if the school doesn't get along with the Church? And, is there a mutual ground where the Church and the school can part company? Mr. Flander stated that he and Rev. Stamper had discussed this issue. It has been a concern of Mr. Flander of becoming to enmeshed with the Church understanding that time passes and people change. At the present it is a good relationship, however, there is no guarantee that Bryan Stamper or Mr. Flander will be there forever. Mr. Flander stated that Rev. Stamper has assured him that he does not want anything to do with private education unless Mr. Flander is the director of the school.