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<strong>CECIL</strong> <strong>COUNTY</strong> <strong>PLANNING</strong> <strong>COMMISSION</strong><br />

<strong>Meeting</strong> <strong>Minutes</strong><br />

January 19, 2011<br />

Present:<br />

Absent:<br />

Pat Doordan; Vice Chair; Ken Wiggins; Wyatt Wallace; Randy Taylor; H. Clay<br />

McDowell, alternate; Tim Whittie; Mark Woodhull; Diana Broomell; Fred von<br />

Staden; Keith Baynes, Esq.; Eric Sennstrom; Tony Di Giacomo and Jennifer<br />

Bakeoven.<br />

Bill Mortimer, Chairman; Joe Janusz; Clara Campbell, Esq.<br />

Call to Order: Vice Chair Doordan called the meeting to order at 12:03 p.m.<br />

Approval of the <strong>Minutes</strong>: Mr. Wallace made a motion for approval. The motion was seconded by<br />

Mr. Wiggins. All approve. Motion carried.<br />

1. Lands of Ulysses G. McCoy, Lots 1-3, Rowland Road, Concept Plat, Will Whiteman Land<br />

Surveying, Inc., Seventh Election District.<br />

Will Whiteman, Land Surveyor, appeared and presented an overview of the project.<br />

Mr. Di Giacomo, P&Z, read the comments of the department:<br />

This proposal is in compliance with §3.8 & §3.9.1 regarding public notification.<br />

With regard to the posting of plats on the County’s website, notice is hereby given the jpg file<br />

submissions can be only 11 inches, maximum, in any direction. Adherence to that requirement will<br />

enable the County to better serve the public.<br />

Zoning: NAR<br />

Density: The NAR zone permits a maximum base density of 1 du/ 10 ac. This Concept Plat, which<br />

must cite Minor Subdivisions 2469, 2529, 3274, 3531, and 3751, proposes 3 lots on 230.899 acres,<br />

for a proposed density of 57.7247/1.<br />

A boundary line survey must be done in conjunction with the preparation of the Preliminary Plat for<br />

density calculation purposes.<br />

§2.0 of the Subdivision Regulations allows for a combined Preliminary-Final Plat if there are from 1<br />

to 5 lots.<br />

Dwellings or impervious surfaces shall not occur on slopes with a grade of 25% or more covering a<br />

contiguous area of 10,000 ft 2 or more. On slopes between 15 and 25%, good engineering practices<br />

shall be used to ensure sediment and erosion control and slope stabilization before, during and after<br />

disturbance activities. 1<br />

Slopes greater than 25% must be shown on the Preliminary Plat.<br />

A 110’ perennial stream buffer is required from all perennial streams present. This buffer shall be<br />

expanded to include contiguous areas of hydric soils, highly erodible soils, and soils on slopes<br />

greater than 15% -- to a maximum distance of 160’.<br />

1 The Cecil County Subdivision Regulations define steep slopes as “15 percent or greater incline.” The Cecil County Zoning<br />

Ordinance defines steep slopes as consisting of a grade of 25% or more covering a contiguous area of 10,000 ft 2 or more. The Cecil<br />

County Forest Conservation Regulations define steep slopes as “areas with slopes greater than 25 percent slope.”<br />

- 1 -


A 25’ buffer is required around all non-tidal wetlands and intermittent streams present. Permits are<br />

required from the (US Army) Corps of Engineers and MDE for all non-tidal wetland and stream<br />

impacts prior to recordation. JD’s are required in conjunction with permitting. If no permits are<br />

required, and if the proposed project meets the policy standards established on 3/20/95 and revised<br />

on 1/16/96, or if the FSD/Conceptual Environmental Assessment finds that there are to be no<br />

impacts to field-delineated wetlands or stream impacts, or if the FSD/Conceptual Environmental<br />

Assessment finds that there are no wetlands or streams and that finding is consistent with the details<br />

of County wetlands maps and USGS quad maps, then no JD is required. If required, then a JD is<br />

recommended to be done prior to Final Plat review by the Planning Commission, but required to be<br />

completed prior to recordation.<br />

The habitats of rare, threatened, and endangered species must be avoided.<br />

No common open space is required for fewer than 10 lots.<br />

No landscaping of the development envelope is required and no sidewalks are recommended in the<br />

NAR zone.<br />

Bufferyard Standard C is required, outside the right-of-way, along the road frontages of Dr. Jack and<br />

Rowland Roads.<br />

A Bufferyard Standard A will be required adjacent to any adjoining property on which an<br />

agricultural operation is occurring.<br />

Where feasible, the natural vegetative equivalent may be used to satisfy the bufferyard requirements.<br />

Any tree removal within a public right-of-way requires approval from the Maryland Department of<br />

Natural Resources.<br />

The plat indicates that this project is exempt, per §3.2K.<br />

Any Landscape Plan must (shall) be approved prior to Planning Commission review of the Final Plat<br />

(§6.3.B(1)(a), Cecil County Forest Conservation Regulations).<br />

Any Landscape Agreement must be executed prior to recordation.<br />

For subdivisions proposed on property contiguous to operating farms, notice shall be provided on the<br />

plat that an agricultural operation is being conducted on a contiguous property and said agricultural<br />

operation is protected from nuisance claims provided the conditions of Article I, § 4 are being<br />

complied with.<br />

Discussion ensued regarding the remainder of the applicant’s property.<br />

Mr. Woodhull, DPW, read the comments of the department:<br />

It appears that this subdivision creates lots around existing dwellings as such it is exempt from<br />

Stormwater Management (SWM) under Article III, section 251-5 C. of the SWM Ordinance.<br />

Mr. Wiggins read the comments of the Health Department:<br />

A Groundwater Appropriation Permit Exemption must be requested from Maryland Department of<br />

the Environment prior to final plat approval. Concept plat is satisfactory.<br />

Vice Chair Doordan asked if anyone would like to speak in favor or in opposition of this project. No<br />

one spoke.<br />

- 2 -


Mr. Di Giacomo read the recommendation of the department:<br />

APPROVAL, conditioned on:<br />

1) Any DPW requirements being met;<br />

2) The boundary line survey’s being completed prior to the TAC’s review of the Preliminary Plat;<br />

and<br />

3) The granting of the requested waiver from the Bufferyard Standard C requirement.<br />

A motion for approval with conditions was made by Mr. McDowell.<br />

The motion was seconded by Mr. Wiggins.<br />

All approve. Motion carried.<br />

2. Clover Meadows, Lots 1-19, Weaver Meadows Road, Final Plat, RJK Engineering &<br />

Associates, Eighth Election District.<br />

Kordell Willen, American Engineering, appeared and presented an overview of the project.<br />

Mr. Di Giacomo, P&Z, read the comments of the department:<br />

This proposal is in compliance with §3.8 & §3.9.1 regarding public notification.<br />

With regard to the posting of plats on the County’s website, notice is hereby given the jpg file<br />

submissions can be only 11 inches, maximum, in any direction. Adherence to that requirement will<br />

enable the County to better serve the public.<br />

Zoning: NAR<br />

Density: Density: The Concept Plat, proposing 16 major- and 3 minor-subdivision 2 lots on 53.62<br />

acres, 3 was approved on 4/17/06, conditioned on:<br />

1) The Boundary line survey being completed prior to the TAC’s review of the Preliminary<br />

Plat;<br />

2) The JD completion documentation being received prior to the Planning Commission’s review<br />

of the Preliminary Plat; 4 and<br />

3) A sensitive species survey being completed prior to the Planning Commission’s review of the<br />

Preliminary Plat.<br />

On 4/17/06, the NAR zone permitted a base density of 1 du/ 5 ac., and bonus density of 1/3. The<br />

Concept Plat was approved at a proposed density of 1/3.12. On 1/1/07, the permitted NAR density<br />

changed to 1/10 and eliminated bonus density.<br />

The Preliminary Plat was approved on 3/17/08, conditioned on:<br />

1) Health Dept. requirements being met;<br />

2) DPW requirements being met;<br />

3) The add-on hooks showing the direction of the conveyance;<br />

4) Covenants prohibiting the subdivision of the large lot must being noted on the Final Plat;<br />

2 §2.4.1 was not invoked.<br />

3 After deducting 3.73 acres for the proposed minor subdivision lots, a major subdivision bonus density of 1/3.12 was proposed.<br />

4 Based upon discussion with the Corps of Engineers, JD’s will now be required in conjunction with permitting. If no permits are required, and if the<br />

project meets the policy standards established on 3/20/95 and revised on 1/16/96, 4 or if the FSD/Conceptual Environmental Assessment finds that there<br />

are to be no impacts to field-delineated wetlands or streams, or if the FSD/Conceptual Environmental Assessment finds that there are no wetlands or<br />

streams and that finding is consistent with the details of County wetlands maps and USGS quad maps, then no JD is required.<br />

- 3 -


5) The FCP and Landscape Plan being approved prior to the submittal of the Final Plat;<br />

6) The details of the FCP/Landscape Plan and the Final Plat matching up;<br />

7) Deed restrictions for the long-term protection of the Forest Retention/Afforestation Areas<br />

(FRAs) being recorded & noted on the plat prior to recordation, with the metes and bounds<br />

description of the FRA being shown on the Final & Record Plats; and<br />

8) A copy of the sealed McAllister May 2007 survey being submitted for the file prior to the<br />

submittal of the Final Plat.<br />

Per §4.1.18, a 2 (two)-year Preliminary extension was granted on 1/20/10.<br />

Also on 1/20/10, the Phase 1, Lot 1 Final Plat was approved, conditioned on:<br />

1) Health Dept. requirements being met;<br />

2) DPW requirements being met;<br />

3) The Landscape Agreement being executed prior to Recordation;<br />

4) A Homeowners’ Association for maintenance of common open space being established with<br />

$50 per recorded lot placed in escrow for improvements prior to recordation;<br />

5) Deed restrictions for the long-term protection of the street trees and Forest Retention<br />

/Afforestation Areas (FRAs) being recorded & noted on the plat prior to recordation, with the<br />

metes and bounds description of the FRA being shown on the Record Plats;<br />

6) A copy of the sealed McAllister May 2007 survey being submitted for the file prior to Lot 1’s<br />

Recordation or the submittal of any Final Plat for any other lot(s), or until another survey is<br />

completed and submitted in its stead; and<br />

7) The details of the Phase 2 or any subsequent Final plat matching the details of this Lot 1 plat.<br />

No Lot 1 recordation plats were ever submitted for signatures, and Lot 1 is again included on this<br />

Final Plat.<br />

Total aggregate acreage figures have been made consistent between the Final Plat and the<br />

FCP/Landscape Plan.<br />

An unlabeled existing structure (labeled as a garage on the McCallister survey) is shown crossing the<br />

proposed Lot 1 – Lot 19 property line, shown as planned to be removed.<br />

The proposed large lot (#12) and the common open space together total 32.79 acres, or 63.37% of<br />

the 51.74 major subdivision acres. General Note # 12 prohibits any further subdivision of the large<br />

lot, proposed Lot 12.<br />

General Note # 2 indicates that the boundary line survey was previously completed. Per condition #<br />

8 of Preliminary Plat approval, a copy of the sealed McAllister May 2007 survey was submitted for<br />

the file prior to Final Plat review.<br />

General Note # 27 still seems ambiguous: Are the 5’ utility easements cited in General Note # 6 and<br />

the blanket access easements cited in General Note # 15 to be maintained by the Homeowners’<br />

Association on private lots? Mr. Willen said no, the utility company will maintain the easements.<br />

Dwellings or impervious surfaces shall not occur on slopes with a grade of 25% or more covering a<br />

contiguous area of 10,000 ft 2 or more. On slopes between 15 and 25%, good engineering practices<br />

shall be used to ensure sediment and erosion control and slope stabilization before, during and after<br />

disturbance activities. 5<br />

5 The Cecil County Subdivision Regulations define steep slopes as “15 percent or greater incline.” The Cecil County Zoning Ordinance defines steep<br />

slopes as consisting of a grade of 25% or more covering a contiguous area of 10,000 ft 2 or more. The Cecil County Forest Conservation Regulations<br />

define steep slopes as “areas with slopes greater than 25 percent slope.”<br />

- 4 -


A 110’ perennial stream buffer is required from all perennial streams present. This buffer shall be<br />

expanded to include contiguous areas of hydric soils, highly erodible soils, and soils on slopes<br />

greater than 15% -- to a maximum distance of 160’.<br />

A 25’ buffer is required around all non-tidal wetlands and intermittent streams present. Permits are<br />

required from the (US Army) Corps of Engineers and MDE for all non-tidal wetland and stream<br />

impacts prior to recordation. JD’s are required in conjunction with permitting. If no permits are<br />

required, and if the proposed project meets the policy standards established on 3/20/95 and revised<br />

on 1/16/96, or if the FSD/Conceptual Environmental Assessment finds that there are to be no<br />

impacts to field-delineated wetlands or stream impacts, or if the FSD/Conceptual Environmental<br />

Assessment finds that there are no wetlands or streams and that finding is consistent with the details<br />

of County wetlands maps and USGS quad maps, then no JD is required. If required, then a JD is<br />

recommended to be done prior to Final Plat review by the Planning Commission, but required to be<br />

completed prior to recordation, per General Note # 25. 6<br />

Landscaping is not required, and sidewalks are not recommended, in the NAR zone. A Bufferyard<br />

Standard C is required, outside the right-of-way, along the road frontages of Weaver Meadows<br />

Road, as shown.<br />

Rows of street trees with 10’ planting easements are required, outside the right-of-way, along both<br />

sides of all internal roads, as shown.<br />

The FSD was approved on 4/5/06. The PFCP has been approved, and the sensitive species survey,<br />

completed. The FCP/Landscape Plan was approved on 9/23/10.<br />

A Landscape Agreement must be executed prior to recordation.<br />

Deed restrictions for the long-term protection of the planted buffers, street trees & Forest<br />

Retention/Afforestation Areas (FRAs) must be recorded & noted on the plat prior to recordation, with<br />

the metes & bounds description of the FRA being shown on the Record Plat.<br />

The proposed road name, Blarney Lane, has been approved. 7<br />

Covenants prohibiting the subdivision of the large lot (Lot 12) must be noted on the Record Plat and<br />

recorded prior to recordation.<br />

Access to common open space between lots must be marked with concrete monuments.<br />

A Homeowners’ Association for maintenance of common open space must be established with $50<br />

per recorded lot being placed in escrow for improvements prior to recordation.<br />

Mr. Woodhull, DPW, read the comments of the department:<br />

The final SWM plan is technically complete as are the Street and Storm Drainage plan. Only<br />

administrative issues and the relabeling of the SWM easement remain outstanding. We will not sign<br />

the final plat until these issues have been resolved to the department’s satisfaction.<br />

Mr. Wiggins read the comments of the Health Department:<br />

A Groundwater Appropriation Permit Exemption has been filed with Maryland Department of the<br />

Environment.<br />

Final Plat is satisfactory.<br />

6 Per the Planning Commission’s policy, established on 3/20/95 and revised on 1/16/96, so long as the wetlands are in the common open space or the<br />

forest retention area or the large lot, a JD need not be done.<br />

7 Mr. Citrano, an adjacent property owner, previously requested connectivity to the proposed Blarney Lane.<br />

- 5 -


Vice Chair Doordan asked if anyone would like to speak in favor or in opposition of this project. No<br />

one spoke.<br />

Mr. Di Giacomo read the recommendation of the staff:<br />

APPROVAL, conditioned on:<br />

1) Health Dept. requirements being met;<br />

2) DPW requirements being met;<br />

3) The Landscape Agreement being executed prior to Recordation;<br />

4) A Homeowners’ Association for maintenance of common open space being established with $50<br />

per recorded lot being placed in escrow for improvements prior to recordation;<br />

5) Deed restrictions for the long-term protection of the planted buffers, street trees and Forest<br />

Retention /Afforestation Areas (FRAs) being recorded & noted on the plat prior to recordation,<br />

with the metes and bounds description of the FRA being shown on the Record Plats;<br />

6) Signature lines being provided on the Record Plat for the owners of Parcels 520, 576, and 513;<br />

and<br />

7) Deed restrictions being recorded prior to recordation prohibiting the subdivision of the large lot.<br />

A motion for approval with conditions was made by Mr. Wallace.<br />

The motion was seconded by Mr. McDowell.<br />

All approve. Motion carried.<br />

3. Sassafras River Club (formerly Bracebridge Hall), Lots 1-106, Grove Neck Road, Revised<br />

Preliminary Record Plat, Morris & Ritchie Associates, Inc., First Election District.<br />

James Keefer, Morris & Ritchie Associates, Inc., and Jim Chaffin, Chaffin Light, appeared and<br />

presented an overview of the project.<br />

Discussion ensued regarding the purpose of the proposed Natural Reserve Areas and the use of the<br />

existing manor house.<br />

Mr. Di Giacomo, P&Z, read the comments of the department;<br />

This proposal, 8 previously reviewed and approved by the Planning Commission, seeks the<br />

modification of an approved and recorded subdivision.<br />

Zoning: SAR, RCA & LDA<br />

Density: The Concept Plat was approved at 1/5 bonus density 9 on 7/19/04, conditioned on:<br />

1) A boundary line survey being done for the preparation of the Preliminary Plat for density<br />

calculation purposes;<br />

2) A sensitive species survey being done prior to the Planning Commission’s review of the<br />

Preliminary Plat;<br />

3) A JD being done prior to the Planning Commission’s review of the Preliminary Plat;<br />

4) A note being placed on the plat to the effect that the Critical Area portion of the property<br />

is exempt from the Forest Conservation Regulations, per §3.2B;<br />

5) A Traffic Impact Study (TIS) being completed prior to the TAC’s review of the<br />

Preliminary Plat;<br />

8 It was reviewed by the TAC on 7/2/08.<br />

9 The SAR zone then permitted a maximum base density of 1 du/ 8 ac., or 1/5 if bonus density is granted. The RCA overlay zone permitted a density<br />

of 1/20.<br />

- 6 -


6) A mid-block turnaround being required on Gettysburg Drive (outside the Critical Area in<br />

so far as possible) and a mid-block turnaround being waived on McGill Creek Farm<br />

Lane; and<br />

7) Water quality issues being met.<br />

A Preliminary Plat with a slightly revised layout was presented to the Planning Commission, for<br />

informational purposes only, on 11/21/05.<br />

A 1-year extension of Concept Plat approval was granted on 5/15/06. 10<br />

The Preliminary Plat, proposing 106 lots on 530.502 acres 11 at a density of 1/5.005, was approved on<br />

8/21/06, 12 conditioned on:<br />

1) Health Department requirements being met;<br />

2) DPW requirements being met;<br />

3) The FCP, Landscape Plan and Final Environmental Assessment being completed prior to<br />

Final Plat review(s);<br />

4) The requested (7/11/06 letter) details and plat copy being supplied to the CBCAC staff<br />

prior to Final Plat review;<br />

5) The adjacent agricultural operations notice being placed on the Final and Record Plats;<br />

6) Deed restrictions for the long-term protection of the Forest Retention/ Afforestation Areas<br />

(FRAs) must be recorded and noted on the plat prior to recordation. The metes and bounds<br />

description of the FRA must be shown on the Final and Record Plats; and<br />

7) Bald Eagles Nest Zone 3’s critical dates being listed on the Final/Record Plats.<br />

The Final Plat was approved on 4/16/07 conditioned on:<br />

1) Health Department requirements being met;<br />

2) DPW requirements being met;<br />

3) The Landscape Agreement being executed prior to recordation;<br />

4) The Critical Area designation, density and boundary being included on the Record Plat;<br />

5) The Record Plat noting the §3.2B exemption;<br />

6) The adjacent agricultural operations notice being placed on the Record Plat;<br />

7) Deed restrictions for the long-term protection of the Forest Retention/ Afforestation Areas<br />

(FRAs) being recorded and noted on the plat prior to recordation, with the metes and<br />

bounds description of the FRA being shown on the Record Plat;<br />

8) A Homeowners’ Association for maintenance of common open space being established<br />

with $50 per recorded lot placed in escrow for improvements prior to recordation;<br />

9) A Mini-road Maintenance Association for maintenance of the mini road must be<br />

established prior to recordation, with the owners of all lots accessing the mini-road<br />

becoming members; and<br />

10) Permits being obtained for any wetland or stream impacts prior to recordation.<br />

The Record Plat was signed on 9/12/07 and recorded. Thus, all 106 lots legally exist. The plat’s<br />

Project Address (under ‘Site Data’) has been changed to Grove Neck Road.<br />

At one time, a possible bed & breakfast has been discussed for this site. Therefore, the applicant<br />

was advised that, per §84.1, bed & breakfasts are permitted in the SAR zone only with a Special<br />

Exception, and, per §84.1.a, only if the dwelling was in existence at the time of the adoption of the<br />

Zoning Ordinance (7/1/93).<br />

10 A Preliminary Plat was reviewed by the TAC on 4/5/06.<br />

11 26.711 acres of tidal wetlands had been deducted for a net tract area of 530.502 acres.<br />

12 The Critical Area Commission staff raised an issue regarding the RCA density calculation, because some lots outside the Critical Area would be<br />

served by a SWM facility inside. In the absence of specific citations regarding the interpretation of CA density calculation in the County or state CA<br />

Programs, and in the absence of precedents of its application, staff did not perceive that issue as the basis of any recommendation of disapproval of a<br />

Preliminary Plat. Subsequently, documentation was received on 1/17/07 that all CA issues had been satisfactorily addressed.<br />

- 7 -


The Revised Record Plat Preliminary Revisions were approved on 10/10/08, conditioned on:<br />

1) All previous conditions of Preliminary and Final Plat approvals remaining in effect, as may<br />

be applicable;<br />

2) All Health Department requirements being met prior to any submittal for approval of the<br />

Revised Record Plat Final Revisions;<br />

3) All DPW requirements shall be met prior to any submittal for approval of the Revised<br />

Record Plat Final Revisions;<br />

4) All Maryland Critical Area Commission comments being satisfactorily addressed prior to<br />

any submittal for approval of the Revised Record Plat Final Revisions;<br />

5) A revised FCP/Landscape Plan/Environmental Assessment being approved prior to any<br />

submittal for approval of the Revised Record Plat Final Revisions;<br />

6) The proposed Growth Allocation being awarded prior to any submittal for approval of the<br />

Revised Record Plat Final Revisions;<br />

7) The proposed Variance for the private road being granted prior to any submittal for approval<br />

of the Revised Record Plat Final Revisions;<br />

8) Final Site Plan approval for the proposed clubhouse being obtained prior to any submittal for<br />

approval of the Revised Record Plat Final Revisions;<br />

9) The Master Water and Sewer Plan being amended prior to any submittal for the approval of<br />

the Revised Record Plat Final Revisions;<br />

10) Any necessary Special Exceptions being granted prior to any submittal for the approval of<br />

the Revised Record Plat Final Revisions;<br />

11) All §175 requirements being satisfied prior to any submittal for approval of the Revised<br />

Record Plat Final Revisions;<br />

12) Documentation of all necessary approvals for the shared facilities being submitted prior to<br />

any submittal for approval of the Revised Record Plat Final Revisions;<br />

13) All §100 and §157 requirements being met prior to any submittal for approval of the Revised<br />

Record Plat Final Revisions;<br />

14) All questions relating to HOA revisions and the possibility of a condominium regime being<br />

fully answered prior to any submittal for approval of the Revised Record Plat Final<br />

Revisions; and<br />

15) Consultation with the Cecilton Volunteer Fire Company on the issue of dry hydrants taking<br />

place prior to any submittal for approval of the Revised Record Plat Final Revisions.<br />

As relates to the 4 th condition, the Critical Area Commission detailed its concerns in the form of<br />

seven conditions of Growth Allocation approval as follows:<br />

1. The 110-foot Buffer, expanded Buffer, 150-foot stream Buffer, and 300-foot setback shall be<br />

fully forested in three-tier native vegetation at a planting density that is consistent with the<br />

attached planting Standard (Attachment B). If the final Buffer Management Plan (BMP) is<br />

submitted after the final effective date of the Commission’s Buffer regulations, then this area<br />

must be planted at a density in accordance with the planting standards found within the<br />

Buffer Regulations.<br />

2. The area of the 110-foot Buffer and 300-foot setback located landward of the existing McGill<br />

Creek Farm Lane and surrounding the revised parking area for the dock, as shown on<br />

Attachment A, may be planted in shrubs and understory trees in lieu of three-tier vegetation.<br />

The shrubs and understory trees shall be planted at a density that is consistent with Table 1 in<br />

Attachment B. If the final Buffer Management Plan (BMP) is submitted after the effective<br />

date of the Commission’s Buffer regulations, then this area of shrubs and understory trees<br />

must be planted at a density in accordance with the planting standards found within the<br />

Commission’s Buffer regulations.<br />

- 8 -


3. The existing parking area for the dock, and the associated stormwater infiltration trench for<br />

the parking area, shall be reconfigured so that the parking area and infiltration trench are<br />

located entirely outside of the 110-foot Buffer.<br />

4. Prior to final subdivision approval, a field delineation of the 150-foot stream Buffer along<br />

McGill Creek shall be conducted with Commission staff to ensure that the 9 th and 10 th holes<br />

are located entirely outside the 150-foot stream Buffer, in accordance with the Critical Area<br />

Commission’s Golf Courses in the RCA policy.<br />

5. Prior to the issuance of any permits or final approvals by the County, a detailed Buffer<br />

Management Plan at a 1”=50’ scale shall be submitted to the full Commission for review and<br />

approval. The Buffer Management Plan shall include, but is not limited to the following<br />

features:<br />

a. A fully forested 110-foot and expanded Buffer;<br />

b. A fully forested 300-foot setback from the edge of tidal wetlands;<br />

c. A fully forested 150-foot stream Buffer, expanded as necessary for steep slopes,<br />

hydric soils, and highly erodible soils, from all tributary streams located within the<br />

golf course area of the RCA;<br />

d. The hatched area of the 110-foot Buffer and the 300-foot setback that may be planted<br />

in shrubs and understory trees in lieu of three-tier vegetation, as shown on<br />

Attachment A;<br />

e. The location of the State tidal wetlands;<br />

f. All proposed trails, portions of trails, structures or areas for education located within<br />

the 110-foot Buffer, expanded Buffer, and 300-foot setback, including those areas<br />

proposed for public use;<br />

g. Locations for the removal of any exotic or invasive species;<br />

h. The locations of all golf course features within the LDA building envelope and within<br />

the RCA to ensure that they are located outside of all Buffers and setbacks;<br />

i. The locations of all twelve lots and the Manor House;<br />

j. The location of all road improvements, stormwater management facilities, and<br />

utilities, including copies of the grading plans for each feature;<br />

k. The Integrated Pest Management (IPM) and Nutrient Management plans for the golf<br />

course area;<br />

l. A plan that shows the proposed limit of disturbance, the total number and size of trees<br />

to be removed, if applicable, and the arrangement of the planting to be done;<br />

m. A landscape schedule that shows the proposed species type, the quantity of plants, the<br />

size of plants to be installed, and the planting date;<br />

n. A maintenance plan that for the control of invasive species, pests and predation that<br />

shows invasive species and pest control practices, the provision of at least two years<br />

of monitoring, and a reinforcement planting provision if survival rates fall below the<br />

standards described above;<br />

o. A long-term protection plan that includes evidence of financial assurance that<br />

adequately covers the planting and survivability requirement, a provision for at least<br />

two years of monitoring, and if planting, an anticipated planting date before<br />

construction or the sales of the lot;<br />

p. An inspection agreement that grants permission to the local government and the<br />

Critical Area Commission to inspect the plantings at appropriate times;<br />

q. The signature of the party responsible for the proposed activity and for the survival of<br />

the planting.<br />

6. The tee for the 16 th hole shall be relocated so that disturbance to steep slopes is completely<br />

avoided.<br />

7. Prior to final subdivision approval, the applicant shall provide Commission staff with legal<br />

documentation for the easements to protect the McGill Creek and Back Creek nature<br />

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preserve areas that will ensure effective implementation and enforcement of the Buffer<br />

management provisions detailed in the approved BMP. The easements must be held by a<br />

third party. These documents shall be provided and amended so as to be deemed sufficient<br />

ob the Office of the Attorney General.<br />

As relates to the 6 th condition, also on 10/20/08, the Planning Commission gave recommendation to<br />

the Board of County Commissioners for approval of the awarding of Growth Allocation, and, in<br />

turn, on 12/2/08, the Board of County Commissioners voted in favor of the awarding of Growth<br />

Allocation. The Chesapeake Bay Critical Area Commission (by a vote of 13-5, with two abstaining)<br />

voted to approve the awarding of Growth Allocation to Bracebridge Hall with the 7 conditions of<br />

that awarding.<br />

As relates to the 9 th condition, the Board of County Commissioners amended the Master Water and<br />

Sewer Plan on 11/18/08, which was subsequently approved by the MDE on 1/21/10.<br />

The staff comments at the 10/20/08 Planning Commission review will not be read again, but will<br />

appear in the minutes:<br />

The proposed golf course will require Growth Allocation and the reclassification from RCA<br />

to LDA. That is a requirement of §100.6. The Growth Allocation proposal exceeded to 90-<br />

point threshold established under §207. 13<br />

The proposed new club house facilities must be approved by the site plan process, consistent<br />

with §291 and Appendix A, as well as §100 and §157.<br />

The proposed golf course must be consistent with the provisions of §100 14 and §157.<br />

§100.4 requires vegetative screening (Bufferyard standard B) of off-street parking. This is also<br />

required by §157.8. How does this design satisfy that requirement?<br />

§157.2 requires 100’ & 175’ setbacks from lot lines for tees and greens, respectively, unless<br />

vegetative buffers are provided. Proposed vegetative buffers must be approved as part of the<br />

Landscape Plan, per §157.3.<br />

§157.1 mandates a 200’ setback for the fairway centerline from all lot lines, unless a<br />

vegetative buffer is provided.<br />

§157.2 requires 100’ & 175’ setbacks from lot lines for tees and greens, respectively, unless<br />

vegetative buffers are provided. Proposed vegetative buffers must be approved as part of the<br />

Landscape Plan, per §157.3.<br />

The proposed driving range is consistent with §157.5’s design standards.<br />

The proposed dwelling setbacks appear to be consistent with §157.4.<br />

The provisions of §157.10 shall not apply to this proposal.<br />

Private roads require a Variance from the Board of Appeals prior to the Planning<br />

Commission’s approval of the Revised Record Plat Final Revisions.<br />

13 If granted, the Growth Allocation and reclassification from RCA to LDA shall not increase the number of lots beyond the 106 that legally exist<br />

today.<br />

14 If the proposed golf course is to be a public facility, then it shall be consistent with the provisions of §106.<br />

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The proposed use of shared facilities will require an amendment to the Master Water &<br />

Sewer Plan, as well as compliance with §175, prior to the Planning Commission’s approval<br />

of the Revised Record Plat Final Revisions.<br />

§175.2.k requires at least 70% open space 15 , which can include one “large lot.”<br />

§175.3.c.1 requires that there be 10,000 ft 2 of subsurface disposal area set aside for each<br />

dwelling unit using the shared facility.<br />

This proposal must fully comply with all provisions of §175, including §175.2.e, §175.2.i,<br />

and §175.2.l.<br />

All approvals of the shared community facilities shall precede final approval of the proposed<br />

revisions.<br />

The Zoning Ordinance is silent on the issue of fractional ownership. Single family<br />

dwellings, as a structure type, are permitted in the SAR zone. Inasmuch as the ITE Trip<br />

Generation manual suggests that interval ownership units generate fewer trips than single<br />

family dwellings, staff will not recommend a revised TIS. However, the Board of Appeals<br />

may want to revisit the TIS question in conjunction with any §84.1 Special Exception<br />

application as may be required.<br />

Would the fractional, or interval, ownership component have an impact on school attendance<br />

projections?<br />

Again, all required Special Exceptions, Variances, Master Water & Sewer Plan amendments,<br />

the Growth Allocation, and the site plan approval for the proposed clubhouse must be<br />

obtained in advance of final approval of the revisions by the Planning Commission. The<br />

Planning Commission’s approval of the Revised Record Plat Final Revisions shall precede<br />

recordation of the Revised Recordation Plats.<br />

The use of dry hydrants is recommended, in consultation with the Cecilton Fire Company.<br />

Any expansion of the existing boat dock shall be governed by §’s 169 & 198.<br />

All Health Department requirements shall be met prior to final approval.<br />

All DPW requirements shall be met prior to final approval.<br />

All Maryland Critical Area Commission comments shall be addressed.<br />

A revised FCP/Landscape Plan/Environmental Assessment shall be approved prior to final<br />

approval.<br />

Resultant, revised deed restrictions for the long-term protection of forest retention/<br />

afforestation areas, street trees, and vegetative buffers shall be recorded prior to any rerecordation,<br />

with the metes and bounds description of the FRA’s appearing on the Revised<br />

Final and Revised Recordation Plats.<br />

As cited in Note# 19, this project is exempt, per §3.2B.<br />

15 The Growth Allocation application’s documentation cited an erroneous 60%.<br />

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If revisions are necessary, then revisions to the HOA documents shall be recorded prior to the<br />

re-recordation of the Revised Recordation Plats. Would the proposed fractional ownership<br />

units fall under a condominium regime?<br />

All previous conditions of Preliminary and Final Plat approvals shall remain in effect, as<br />

applicable.<br />

The salient new feature of this submittal is the proposal that an interim Phase 1, using well and<br />

septic, be implemented to get the project started. The plats reveal that the phasing, as proposed, is<br />

technically feasible.<br />

It is recommended that the Phase 1 lots be given the same numbering scheme as is proposed for the<br />

ultimate Phase 2, even if there are sequential gaps. This would help avoid future confusion, as well<br />

as reinforce the notion that the ultimate intent is for there to be a community system at full build-out.<br />

Mr. Woodhull, DPW, read the comments of the department:<br />

1. The Cecil County Department of Public works does concur with the Developers request that the<br />

internal streets proposed be private.<br />

2. With the internal streets proposed as private the Department does not require nor want a 50’ wide<br />

ROW. We propose the use of a 36’ wide ROW similar to what has been approved for Elk Point<br />

Marina and for the same reasons.<br />

3. The Department would want assurances that if the management organization fails the ownership<br />

and associated responsibility for the roads would be legally transferred to the owners of the units<br />

proposed. The type, details and language of said assurances must be established to the<br />

satisfaction of this Department prior to our recommending approval of the final plat to the<br />

Planning Commission.<br />

4. The Developer will be responsible for the previously approved offsite road improvements and<br />

those improvements must be identified on the final plat submitted for Planning Commission<br />

review. A Public Works Agreement will be required for these improvements to Grove Neck<br />

Road.<br />

5. The plat proposed indicates that a shared waste water facility is provided to service this<br />

development only.<br />

6. It is the Department’s position that for shared facilities DPW be the Controlling Authority.<br />

However in accordance with Section 175 of the Subdivision Regulation the Board of County<br />

Commissioners of Cecil County designates the Controlling Authority.<br />

7. The Applicant needs to make a formal request of the Board of County Commissioners to<br />

designate DPW as the Controlling Authority. The issue of who is the Controlling Authority must<br />

be resolved prior to the Planning Commission review of the final plat.<br />

8. The Developer(s) must be aware of the fact that over and above the construction cost they will be<br />

responsible for maintenance and/or replacement costs for the proposed shared sewerage facility<br />

until the subdivision is built-out and the individual lot owners can begin paying this cost through<br />

a special taxing district or similar method. These costs must be established prior to final plat<br />

submittal.<br />

9. The Public Works Agreement for the shared sewerage facility will include adequate surety for<br />

the work proposed.<br />

10. The Public Works Agreement for the shared sewerage facility will include adequate surety for<br />

the work proposed.<br />

11. A SWM plan, Road & Storm Drain plan, Mass and Final Grading plan, and a Sanitary Sewer<br />

plan must be approved by the CCDPW prior to submittal for Final Plat Approval. The fees for<br />

design review of this project must be provided at the time of first design submittals.<br />

12. An Inspection and Maintenance Agreement will be required for the SWM facilities.<br />

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13. PWA’s will be required for the streets and storm drains.<br />

14. The Final Plat must include the standard note recognizing the applicability of the Lot Grading<br />

Plans, which will appear in the minutes but will not be read at this time. (“A lot grading plan has<br />

been approved by the CCDPW for the construction shown hereon. A site construction as built<br />

shall be submitted to the CCDPW prior to use and/or occupancy of any of the sites shown<br />

hereon. Any change to the Forest Retention, Forestation, Reforestation will require a consistency<br />

review, of the SWM approval, with CCDPW.”)<br />

15. The Lot Grading Plan must include the standard note addressing the limits of construction, which<br />

will appear in the minutes but will not be read at this time. (“No clearing or grading is permitted<br />

beyond the limits of disturbance show hereon. Any expanded clearing and/or grading in the<br />

absence of an approved revised lot grading plan may be considered non-compliance with<br />

Chapter 251 of the Cecil County Code and either or both the developer and/or Builder may be<br />

subject to the enforcement of the penalty provisions therein.”)<br />

Mr. Wiggins read the comments of the Health Department:<br />

Submittal was reviewed as a preliminary plat.<br />

General: The Groundwater Appropriation Permit has been renewed and is valid through March<br />

2012. Water appropriations will also be required for the clubhouse facilities and golf course<br />

irrigation.<br />

Use 2009 Soils mapping. Submit a written proposal detailing the intended use of the two existing<br />

tenant houses and the boat dock for each phase.<br />

Phase 1, 18 lots:<br />

Adjust the sewage area on lot 18 to exclude hole 627. Limit the sewage area no more than 15’<br />

downslope of holes 56 and 235.<br />

As shown, the house on lot 3 of phase 1 will need to be disconnected from its initial well and hooked<br />

to a new well when phase 2 is approved. With a slight revision to the proposed sewage area on phase<br />

1 lot 2, the well on lot 3 phase 1 can be drilled at a location which would stay with the house after<br />

recordation of phase 2.<br />

Phase 1 proposes a golf course with no identified clubhouse. Previous correspondence has indicated<br />

that the mansion house would serve as a clubhouse. Sewerage facilities at the mansion are<br />

inadequate for this use until the community sewerage system is installed and connected. How will<br />

sanitary needs be met if the golf course is approved in phase 1? Phase 1 plats showing a golf course<br />

cannot be approved by the Cecil County Health Department unless water and sewer systems<br />

adequate for that use have been approved.<br />

Phase 1 proposes use of the mansion house as lodging for guests and a sales office. Previous<br />

correspondence indicated use similar to a bed and breakfast. Submit a written description of the<br />

proposed food service operation to determine if a food service license is required. Any food service<br />

plan review that is required must be completed before site plan or building permit approval.<br />

Final and record plats for phase 1 are required to have the following comment:<br />

Interim use of onsite sewage disposal systems is approved for phase 1 of this development. When<br />

community sewerage facilities are constructed and put into service, lots 1-18 must connect and<br />

properly abandon the interim systems.<br />

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Phase 2, 105 lots:<br />

Note 24 states that the manor house will be a sales office and lodging for guests. Previous<br />

correspondence and the location of the pool, fitness center, and cart barn indicate a greater use.<br />

Please confirm the intended use.<br />

Wells on lots 44, 80, 82, and 83 are less than the required 30’ from dwellings.<br />

Plans must be submitted to and approved by the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene for the<br />

pool and the spa prior to Health Department approval of building permits. A written proposal<br />

detailing proposed menu items at the golf course snack shack must be submitted to the Health<br />

Department to determine if a food license is required. Any new or expanded food service operations<br />

associated with phase 2 must have plans submitted and approved by the Health Department prior to<br />

obtaining building permits or operating.<br />

Phase 2 of this project proposes 105 lots and amenities utilizing a common onsite sewage disposal<br />

system. This meets the definition of a shared facility specified in COMAR 26.04.05. A written<br />

request to the controlling authority to establish and operate a shared facility is required (COMAR<br />

26.04.05.02G). The controlling authority must be a “government entity empowered by the County”<br />

to manage, operate, and maintain a shared facility (COMAR 26.04.05.01B(2)).<br />

All structures generating sewage flow including the maintenance facility, dock building, and any<br />

restroom at the putting green must be incorporated into the community sewage disposal system.<br />

A Groundwater Discharge Permit (GWDP) is required from Maryland Department of the<br />

Environment (MDE) for the proposed sewage disposal system. A septic system design in compliance<br />

with MDE’s Large Flow Septic System Guidelines must be submitted for review. After review of the<br />

proposed septic system design, MDE may require additional tests or data collection deemed<br />

necessary to obtain the GWDP. The sewage plan must be approved by MDE, the Cecil County<br />

Department of Public Works, and the Health Department prior to final plat approval. The MDE<br />

permit number for construction of the community sewage disposal system must be listed on the<br />

record plat.<br />

Final and record plats must have the following statements:<br />

1. Public sewerage will be available to all lots offered for sale (by the owner’s signature block)<br />

2. Use of public sewerage is in conformance with the Cecil County Master Water and Sewer<br />

Plan (by the Health Department’s signature block).<br />

3. Lots 1-18 must connect to the public sewerage system upon its completion.<br />

All of the Health Department comments for this project listed above are valid for 6 months.<br />

Currently, COMAR 26.04.02 (governing onsite sewage disposal systems), COMAR 26.04.03<br />

(governing subdivision of land), and COMAR 26.04.05 (governing shared facilities) are being<br />

update by MDE. It is likely that these regulatory changes will be enacted prior to completion of this<br />

project. It is not known what grandfathering will be authorized or what affect any regulatory changes<br />

would have on this project.<br />

Vice Chair Doordan asked if anyone would like to speak in favor or in opposition to this project.<br />

Nick Kelly, Maryland Critical Area Commission, spoke in favor of this project.<br />

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Discussion ensued regarding the proposed cost of the homes and the possible HOA fees that will be<br />

implemented.<br />

Mr. Di Giacomo read the recommendation of the staff:<br />

APPROVAL of the Revised Record Plat Preliminary Revisions, conditioned on:<br />

1) All previous conditions of Preliminary and Final Plat approvals remaining in effect, as may be<br />

applicable;<br />

2) All Health Department requirements being met prior to any submittal for approval of the Phase 1<br />

and Phase 2 Revised Record Plat Final Revisions;<br />

3) All DPW requirements being met prior to any submittal for approval of the Phase 1 and Phase 2<br />

Revised Record Plat Final Revisions;<br />

4) All Maryland Critical Area Commission comments being satisfactorily addressed prior to any<br />

submittal for approval of the Phase 1 and Phase 2 Revised Record Plat Final Revisions, as<br />

applicable;<br />

5) A revised FCP/Landscape Plan/Environmental Assessment being approved prior to any submittal<br />

for approval of the Phase 1 and Phase 2 Revised Record Plat Final Revisions;<br />

6) The conditions of the approved Growth Allocation being satisfied prior to any submittal for<br />

approval of the Phase 1 and Phase 2 Revised Record Plat Final Revisions, as applicable;<br />

7) Final Site Plan approval for the proposed clubhouse being obtained prior to any submittal for<br />

approval of the Phase 1 and Phase 2 Revised Record Plat Final Revisions, as applicable;<br />

8) The approved Master Water and Sewer Plan amendment being noted on any plat submitted for<br />

interim Phase 1 final approval of the Revised Record Plat Revisions;<br />

9) Any necessary Special Exceptions being granted prior to any submittal for the approval of the<br />

Phase 1 and Phase 2 Revised Record Plat Final Revisions;<br />

10) All §175 requirements being satisfied prior to any submittal for approval of the Phase 2 Revised<br />

Record Plat Final Revisions;<br />

11) Documentation of all necessary approvals for the shared facilities being submitted prior to any<br />

submittal for approval of the Phase 2 Revised Record Plat Final Revisions;<br />

12) All §100 and §157 requirements being met prior to any submittal for approval of the Phase 1 and<br />

Phase 2 Revised Record Plat Final Revisions;<br />

13) All questions relating to HOA revisions and the possibility of a condominium regime being fully<br />

answered prior to any submittal for approval of the Phase 1 and Phase 2 Revised Record Plat<br />

Final Revisions;<br />

14) Consultation with the Cecilton Volunteer Fire Company on the issue of dry hydrants taking place<br />

prior to any submittal for approval of any Revised Record Plat Final Revisions; and<br />

15) The lot numbering scheme used for any Phase 1 final approval(s) of the Revised Record Plat<br />

Revisions being made consistent with that used in Phase 2.<br />

A motion for approval with conditions was made by Mr. Wallace.<br />

The motion was seconded by Mr. Wiggins.<br />

All approve. Motion carried.<br />

General Discussion:<br />

Vice Chair Doordan stated that the Villages at North East report will be discussed first with the<br />

HOA fees being discussed second.<br />

Mr. Di Giacomo read the history of the Villages at North East project:<br />

This proposal is in compliance with §3.8 & §3.9.1 regarding public notification.<br />

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With regard to the posting of plats on the County’s website, notice is hereby given the jpg file<br />

submissions can be only 11 inches, maximum, in any direction. Adherence to that requirement will<br />

enable the County to better serve the public.<br />

Zoning: SR & NAR<br />

Density: The original Concept Plat was approved at a density of 2/1 on 9/16/02, conditioned on:<br />

1) The “potential roadway connection” being shown as an actual connection on the Preliminary<br />

Plat submitted for TAC review;<br />

2) A boundary line survey being completed in the preparation of the Preliminary Plat for density<br />

calculation purposes;<br />

3) Roadway names being approved prior to the Planning Commission’s review of the<br />

Preliminary Plat;<br />

4) The Preliminary Plat including the details of the proposed recreation center, parking, and<br />

recreational facilities as required in §291 and Appendix A of the Zoning Ordinance;<br />

5) The Preliminary Plat including proper identification of the adjacent Old York Estates;<br />

6) A variance for the private roads being obtained from the Board of Appeals prior to the<br />

Planning Commission’s review of the Preliminary Plat;<br />

7) The Elk Neck Trail being identified clearly on the plat as to what it is and its location;<br />

8) A stub being shown to the 33 acres in the NAR portion;<br />

9) Shady Beach Road being designed and upgraded, by and at the cost of the developer, from<br />

their southern boundary to MD Rte. 272; and<br />

10) A Traffic Impact Study being completed prior to Technical Advisory Committee review of<br />

the Preliminary Plat.<br />

§4.0.9 then provided that Concept Plats were valid for two years from date of approval. The 9/16/02<br />

Concept Plat approval expired on 9/16/04, but was re-approved on 4/17/06.<br />

The Preliminary Plat, proposing 707 lots on 354.77 SR-zoned acres 16 , for a proposed density of<br />

1.99/1 17 was approved on 1/22/04, conditioned on:<br />

1) Heath Department requirements being met;<br />

2) Department of Public works requirements being met;<br />

3) The walking/bike path along Vermeer Boulevard being changed to the west (or left) side of<br />

the road because of the high number of right turns anticipated at the intersection with Dali<br />

Avenue;<br />

4) The final Forest Conservation Plan (FCP) and Landscape Plan being approved prior to Final<br />

Plat review;<br />

5) The Final Plat including the remaining details of the proposed recreation center, parking, and<br />

recreational facilities as required in §291 and Appendix A of the Zoning Ordinance;<br />

6) The developer, DPW, and SHA, prior to Final Plat review, determining 1) at what point of<br />

the build-out would traffic volumes trigger the unacceptable LOS (E or F), and 2) what<br />

specific improvements need to be implemented to bring the intersection to LOS D or higher<br />

(at full-build-out), as is consistent with the Comprehensive Plan;<br />

7) The developer and DPW, prior to Final Plat review, determining and agreeing on 1) what<br />

specific Shady Beach Road improvements need to be implemented, and 2) when (in terms of<br />

the number of building permits) those improvements need to be implemented;<br />

16 The completed boundary line survey resulted in a reduction of acreage (396 to 354 SR acres, and 33 to 35.6 NAR acres), a concomitant reduction<br />

in the number of lots (792 to 709), and the discovery that a portion of the property was located on the west side of Shady Beach Road.<br />

17 The SR zone permits a maximum base density of 1 du/ 1 acre. With community facilities, a density of 2/1 is permitted.<br />

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8) If the water source is the Town of North East, then verification of water allocation being<br />

received from the Town, and the water service area agreement between the County and the<br />

Town must be amended to include this parcel, prior to Final Plat review.<br />

9) If the water source is an on-site private system, then verification that the proposed water<br />

system is capable of serving these proposed lots and recreation center being received from<br />

MDE and documentation of all approvals for the system and the operator required by the<br />

Public Service Commission must be submitted prior to Final Plat review;<br />

10) If the water source is an on-site private system, then it’s being reviewed by DPW and the<br />

Health Department prior to Final Plat review. The details of any on-site private water<br />

system must be shown on the Final Plat;<br />

11) The required amendments to the Master Water and Sewer Plans being complete prior to Final<br />

Plat review;<br />

12) Verification of sewer allocation being received from the Department of Public Works prior to<br />

Final Plat review;<br />

13) S. Monet Avenue being of sufficient width to accommodate whatever traffic volumes are<br />

generated by the future development on the NAR-zoned portion of the property;<br />

14) The Elk Neck Trail greenway connecting with the adjacent, proposed Rhodes Mountain<br />

Estates;<br />

15) The name will hence forward be the Villages at North East; and<br />

16) All issues being resolved and questions answered relative to the greenway and Elk Neck<br />

Trail prior to Final Plat review.<br />

The Preliminary Plat approval on 1/22/04 expired on 1/22/06 18 , but was also re-approved on 4/17/06,<br />

conditioned on:<br />

1) All previous conditions of the 1/22/04 Preliminary Plat approval remaining in effect, as<br />

appropriate; and<br />

2) All previous agreements among the developer, SHA and the County regarding road<br />

improvements and their phased implementation continuing to be binding.<br />

§4.1.17 provides that Preliminary Plats shall be valid for two years from date of approval.<br />

Therefore, the 4/17/06 Preliminary re-approval was extended on 2/20/08, 1/21/09, and 1/20/10, the<br />

last of which remains valid until 1/20/12.<br />

The Phase 1, 2 & 3 plus Pump Station Lot Final Plat was disapproved at the 4/16/07 Planning<br />

Commission meeting, at which time Mr. McAnally had testified that the water system was to be<br />

public. Previously, the indicated water supply was the Town of North East.<br />

The Phase 1, 2 & 3 plus Pump Station Lot Final Plat was approved on 5/21/07, conditioned on:<br />

1) Heath Department requirements being met;<br />

2) Department of Public Works requirements being met;<br />

3) All previous agreements among the developer, SHA and the County regarding road<br />

improvements and their phased implementation continuing to be binding;<br />

4) Future phases/sections providing an additional 166.2 acres of common open space;<br />

5) Deed restrictions for the long-term protection of the Forest Retention/ Afforestation Areas<br />

(FRAs) for the site plan being recorded prior to recordation of the Phase 1, 2, & 3 Record<br />

Plat;<br />

6) Deed restrictions for the long-term protection of the Forest Retention/ Afforestation Areas<br />

(FRAs) for Phases 1, 2, & 3 being recorded and noted on the plat prior to recordation, with<br />

the metes and bounds description of the FRA being shown on the Record Plat;<br />

18 Per §4.1.17.<br />

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7) The Landscape Agreement for the Site Plan being executed prior to the recordation of the<br />

Phase 1, 2, & 3 Record Plat;<br />

8) The Phase 1, 2, & 3 Landscape Agreement being executed prior to the recordation of the<br />

Record Plat;<br />

9) A Homeowners’ Association for maintenance of common open space, the clubhouse,<br />

common parking, landscape islands, and recreational facilities being established prior to<br />

recordation, including $50 per recorded lot being placed in escrow for improvements to the<br />

common open space and landscape islands prior to recordation;<br />

10) Active recreation improvements being included in the Public Works Agreement;<br />

11) The §186 street trees with 10’ planting easements, outside the right-of-way, along both sides<br />

of all internal roads being depicted and noted on the Record Plat;<br />

12) All references to proposed lots numbered higher than 709 being deleted and replaced by<br />

other nomenclature on the Record Plat;<br />

13) Conditions 11 & 12 of Preliminary Plat approval being fully satisfied prior to recordation;<br />

14) The Elk Neck Trail greenway connecting with the adjacent Rhodes Mountain Estates in<br />

future phases/sections’ Final and Record Plats;<br />

15) Any remaining issues being resolved and questions answered relative to the greenway and<br />

Elk Neck Trail prior to future phases/section’s Final Plat reviews;<br />

16) The details of the sidewalks and walking/bike paths, as well as walking and biking space on<br />

all roads being included in the construction drawings; and<br />

17) The adjacent Rhodes Mountain Estates subdivision being identified on the Record Plat and<br />

on future phases/section’s Final and Record Plats.<br />

Corresponding Record Plats have not been recorded. Thus, the necessity of the 2/20/08, 1/21/09,<br />

and 1/20/10 Preliminary Plat extensions.<br />

Also attached to the comments is a copy of correspondence from DPW, that outlines the various<br />

milestones in terms of build – out and the road improvements that were agreed to be done. See file<br />

for correspondence.<br />

The Planning Commission members agreed to have the staff draft a letter to David Meiskin,<br />

developer, regarding the requirement for him to come back before the board. Mr. Meiskin will need<br />

to explain the changes that have been discussed and proposed at the December Planning<br />

Commission meeting, specifically, the water supplier.<br />

HOA fees:<br />

Mr. Wallace gave an overview of previous discussions had by the Planning Commission regarding<br />

the use and amount of the “$50 per recorded lot being placed in escrow” for proposed developments<br />

at the time of recordation. The commission feels the amount is too low and they want to make<br />

certain that the escrow account is not being misused by the developers. Discussion ensued regarding<br />

the current use of SWM ponds and other alternative SWM practices. Mr. Sennstrom reminded the<br />

Commission members that the money put in escrow is only meant as a starting off point for the<br />

HOA. After the HOA is established, the amount of the dues is decided by the HOA members.<br />

Discussion ensued.<br />

Vice Chair Doordan suggested that HOA fees be added to the February Planning Commission<br />

agenda under General Discussion.<br />

Mr. McDowell asked if the other commission members would like to have a worksession prior to the<br />

scheduled public meetings regarding the Comprehensive Rezoning. The commission members<br />

concurred. Mr. Wallace made a motion to hold the above mention worksession. Mr. McDowell<br />

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seconded the motion will all remaining members voting in favor. A pre-meeting worksession will be<br />

held on February 2, 2011 at 5:00 p.m. in the Elk Room. An ad will be placed in the Cecil Whig for<br />

public notification. A notice will also be posted on the Planning & Zoning website. Mr. Sennstrom<br />

explained the process of the review for the Comprehensive Rezoning.<br />

A motion for adjournment was made by Mr. Wallace and seconded by Mr. Wiggins.<br />

All approve. Motion carried.<br />

The January Planning Commission meeting adjourned at 1:57 p.m.<br />

Respectfully Submitted:<br />

Jennifer Bakeoven<br />

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