Applicant revises parking plan at 539 White Pond after neighbor outreach; planning staff recommends approval

DRK Partners LLC requested a conditional use to expand parking at 539 White Pond Drive to serve a medical/oral surgery office. Planning staff told the committee the petitioner previously sought a different plan that was denied after resident opposition; the applicant subsequently met with neighbors and revised the site plan.

The updated plan proposes 20 paved parking spaces set 40 feet back from Park Gate Avenue (an increase from a previously proposed 25-foot setback), a short driveway connecting the new lot to the existing parking area, a solid fence along the east property line and a row of plantings on the west to screen the lot. A sign in a landscape bed would identify the neighborhood. Planning staff and the planning commission recommended approval subject to conditions.

Attorney Bob Constand, representing the applicant, said the petitioner worked with Councilwoman Jan Davis and local neighbors, held site meetings and accommodated many requests. Council members asked about the originally proposed retention pond; staff said using the pond location on the existing site would unduly impose on the adjacent neighbor and that the revised design was the preferred compromise.

The committee recommended a favorable report and invited the applicant and neighbors to the evening hearing for continued discussion if desired.