> Discussion of Planning Board's ZTA (Zoning Text Agreement) 15-04; and the
> Development Standards in the Takoma/Langley Crossroads.
ZTA 15-04
Six weeks ago City Council adopted Resolution 2015-20 opposing Zoning Text Amendment 15-04. It was transmitted to the Montgomery County Council's Planning. Housing & Economic Development Committee (PHED) and Council President George Leventhal. After testimony from Takoma Park city staff on April 16, a revised ZTA 15-04 was drafted and issued to the public, that allows the ZTA height limit to 55 feet, requires site plan review, and applies only to colleges and universities approved by the Maryland Higher Education Commission. WAU is recognized by this commission, therefore, all zoning and land use laws, etc. apply to them.
I have made my position on this clear in previous meetings, newsletters, and other forums in our community. My concern continues to be for our community and the affected residents regarding buildings that could qualify as suburban ''skyscrapers".
Development Standards in Takoma/Langley
Tonight there will be a review on the Takoma/Langley Sector Plan adopted by Montgomery County Council in June 2012. The plan highlights the transit-oriented development area around New Hampshire Avenue and the University Boulevard intersection, which exciting for our city. The discussion will be about the most recent City Council passed resolution that supports the Sector Plan and Design Guidelines documented in resolutions 2011-20 and 2012-07, respectively.
This review was initiated because of the proposed Taco Bell that is to be built on New Hampshire Avenue. A Taco Bell with a drive thru is permitted to be in that location of Takoma Park so this discussion is to be transparent with the city's residents that Taco Bell is covered by the zoning regulations. On the positive side, this new restaurant is the opportunity for economic growth. Given, the fact that the New Hampshire Avenue corridor is a very important part of the City's strategic plan, economic prosperity is the more important outcome.
Calendar of Events
What: Strawberry Festival
Where: 2303 Metzerott Road, Adelphi, MD
When: June 6 10:00 am-3:00 pm
Note: All proceeds go to charity