The City of Olivette Planning Community Design Commission convened on November 7, 2024, to address several agenda items, including public comments and a review of a new single-family home proposal.

The meeting commenced with a roll call, revealing that members Tim Spiegelglass, Petrie Powell, and Vice Chairman Brian Lewis were present, while Daniel Rosenberg, Laura Ragsdale, and Chairman Rob Dragell were absent. City officials in attendance included Director Carlos Trejo, Senior Planner Don Doty, and Planning Zoning Administrator Jack Carswell, along with City Council Liaison Mayor Missy Waldman.

Public comments were opened, allowing residents to voice concerns not listed on the agenda. Richard Esman, president of the Kings Brook Acres Homeowners Association, raised issues regarding the rise of short-term rentals in the community. He highlighted the lack of regulations governing these rentals, which has led to disturbances and safety concerns. Esman urged the city to explore ordinances from other municipalities to create a framework for managing short-term rentals effectively.

Following public comments, the commission moved to old business, focusing on the site plan review for a new single-family home at 1124 Magnet Drive. This proposal had been deferred from a previous meeting due to necessary revisions. The revised plans addressed most concerns raised earlier, including modifications to the home’s massing, garage protrusion, and stormwater management. However, issues regarding parking and construction logistics on the narrow street remained unresolved.

The commission reviewed the updated plans, which included changes to the home’s design and landscaping. The petitioner, Chris Fisher, confirmed that the only significant alteration was a shift from clip gable corners to a full hip roof for aesthetic reasons.

After thorough discussion, a motion was made to approve the site plan and stormwater management review for the new home, which passed unanimously with a vote of 4-0.

The meeting concluded with a clear path forward for the new development, while the concerns regarding short-term rentals remain a topic for future consideration by the city.