File #: 15-023ME    Name: Holiday Inn Express Meritorious Exception
Type: Agenda Item Status: Regular Agenda Item
In control: Planning & Zoning Commission
On agenda: 2/24/2015 Final action:
Title: Conduct a Public Hearing to Consider/Discuss/Act on a Meritorious Exception for Holiday Inn Express, Located Approximately 1,865 Feet East of Alma Road and on the South Side of Henneman Way
Attachments: 1. PZ Report, 2. Location Map and Aerial Exhibit, 3. Letter of Intent, 4. Proposed Architectural Elevations, 5. Renderings (Informational Only), 6. Powerpoint Presentation
Title      
Conduct a Public Hearing to Consider/Discuss/Act on a Meritorious Exception for Holiday Inn Express, Located Approximately 1,865 Feet East of Alma Road and on the South Side of Henneman Way
 
Summary
 
MEETING DATE:      February 24, 2015
 
DEPARTMENT:       Planning
 
CONTACT:        Brandon Opiela, Planning Manager
      Eleana Galicia, Planner I
 
 
APPROVAL PROCESS:  The Planning and Zoning Commission is the final approval authority for the proposed Meritorious Exception.
 
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:  Staff recommends denial of the proposed meritorious exception request due to the lack of masonry exterior finishing materials used in the construction of the building.
 
APPLICATION SUBMITTAL DATE:      January 26, 2015 (Original Application)
                                    February 9, 2015 (Revised Submittal)
 
ITEM SUMMARY: The applicant is requesting a meritorious exception to the Architectural Standard and Site Standards section of the Zoning Ordinance for a hotel (Holiday Inn Express).  The applicant has indicated in the letter of intent that the design and exterior finishing materials are dictated by the franchisor, InterContinental Hotel Group, and the look and feel of the structure promotes a national brand that enhances the ability to attract hotel guests. The applicant is proposing to utilize primarily stucco as an exterior finishing material, with cultured stone in limited areas as shown on the attached elevations.
 
The meritorious exception is being requested because the proposed architectural elevations:
 
1.      Do not meet the required minimum 50 percent masonry cover each exterior wall.
 
The applicant has submitted an associated site plan (15-022SP) currently under review by Staff.