Title
Discussion of issues relating to a potential Zoning Ordinance amendment to allow heliports/helistops in the Highway District (HD) zoning district.
Body
Summary:
Developer Randy Stockwell recently approached City staff regarding his interest in opening a short-term emergency care clinic on property he owns in Deer Park located near the northeast corner of East Boulevard and 13th Street. This property is zoned Highway District (HD). Officials with the clinic indicated they would like the property to have a heliport (also referenced in Code as a helistop). They have even offered to allow the City of Deer Park and Deer Park Volunteer Fire Department to utilize this heliport for emergency medical air lifts when necessary. This was mentioned to DPVFD Fire Chief Don Davis, and he is very supportive this mutual shared use of the proposed heliport at this new clinic.
The City’s Zoning Ordinance allows heliports and helistops only by specific use permit in the M-1 or M-2 zoning districts. A hospital is allowed in HD zoning, but a heliport or helistop which serves as an accessory use to the hospital presently is not allowed. With this item, Mr. Stockwell would like to discuss this issue with Council to see if there is interest in seeking a change to the Zoning Ordinance to allow heliports/helistops in the HD zoning district. Staff recommends if so, this only be allowed as an accessory use, and it be permitted only through a specific use permit. Should Council desire to seek this Zoning Ordinance change, the formal process begins by having the matter referred to the Planning & Zoning Commission for their recommendation.
Fiscal/Budgetary Impact:
N/A
Recommended action
Discussion only in Workshop.