HomeMy WebLinkAboutJANUARY 6,1987_2
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29:0088
CITY COUNCIL PROCEEDINGS ARE TAPE RECORDED AND ON FILE IN THE OFFICE OF THE CITY CLERK
INVOCATION
PLEDGE OF
ALLEGIANCE
ROLL CALL
MINUTE
APPROVAL
ORD. & RES.
READ BY
TITLE ONLY
RECREATION I
COMMISSION
(Don Wells)
OUTGOING
RECREATION j
COMMISSION
(John Sinclair)
INCOMING
CLOSED
SESSION
'"",
MINUTES
CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ARCADIA
and the
ARCADIA REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY
REGULAR MEETING
JANUARY 6, 19B7
The City Council of the City of Arc~dia and the Arcadia Redevelop-
ment Agency met in a regular session January 6, 1987 at 7:30 p. m.
in the Arcadia City Hall Council Chamber.
Rev. Dr. Frank Finkbiner, Church of The Good Shepherd
City Manager George Watts
PRESENT: Councilmembers Chandler, Gilb, Harbicht, Lojeski and Young
ABSENT: None
Minutes of December 16, 1986 meeting not on agenda.
It was MOVED by Councilmember Lojeski, seconded by Councilmember
Gilb and CARRIED that all ordinances and resolutions be read by
title only and that the reading in full be waived.
PRESENTATION
On behalf of the City Council, Councilmember Gilb presented to
Don Wells, outgoing member of the Recreation Commission, a plaque
in appreciation of his efforts and many accomplishments during his
tenure on the Recreation Commission. Mr. Wells has found it
necessary to resign from the Commission.
The City Clerk administered the Oath of Office to John Sinclair,
incoming member of the Recreation Commission. Councilmember Gilb
then presented credentials to Mr. Sinclair and welcomed him to the
City Family. Mr. Sinclair is the Assistant Superintendent of Schools
of Arcadia. This appointment is a continuous one.
C!TY A HORNEY
The City Attorney announced that prior to this meeting, the City
Council met in a CLOSED SESSION pursuant to Government Code 54956.9(a)
to confer with legal counsel regarding the existing personal injury
case of Lee Charles vs. City of Arcadia and the County of Los Angeles.
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PUBLIC M-86-170. an appeal of the Plannin9 Commission's action in denying
HEARING an appeal and affirming the Santa Anita Oaks Architectural' Review
APPEAL OF Board's denial of a proposed second-story addition. which involves
PLANNING COMSN.an overall remodel of the existing residence at 1328 Oaklawn Road
M-86.170 (Mr. and Mrs. Nabil Matter. owners).
(1328 Oakl awn
Road - Mr.&
Mrs. Nabil
Matter)
(DENIED)
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OPPOSITION
Staff advised that the applicants propose to construct a 3,210 square
foot two-story addition and remodel the existing residence. This does
not require any modifications. The proposed building setbacks (except
the exi sti ng 8'.6" northerly setback), building height and lot coverage
meet or exceed the standards set forth by the zoning ordinances. It
was the consensus of the Planning commissioners voting in opposition to
this proposal and the proposed addition/remodel that, it would not be
in harmony with the adjacent and other structures in the immediate
neighborhood. The dissenting Commissioner felt that the proposed
addition/remodel is different when compared to the other homes in
the neighborhood but not to such an extent that it would decrease
the property'values, He also believed that the size and proportion
of the proposed addition/remodel were not adequate reasons to deny
the request.
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Mayor Young declared the hearing open, and the applicant Nabil Matter,
1328 Oaklawn Road. explained the position of his wife andlnfrDself --
they have lived in the City for some time and have had what they call
their dream house drawn up by an architect for a new home because the
existing house is not in good condition. Perhaps if this one were
compared with the rest of the neighborhood. it might be a cause to
decrease values in the area, but the proposed home would only improve
the neighborhood. Mr. Matter circulated photographs and a large
photo in color was exhibited for Council vieWing. The front setback
is.the same, 63 feet from the curb. He also brought attention to the
, large trees in front of the house and mentioned extensive landscaping
which is proposed. which will all soften'the looks of the house in'
comparison to the neighborhood ... there will be a circular driveway.
He did not see any real incompatibility... that things do change and
many of the older homes will some day be remodeled also. He asked
Council to favorably consider his appeal.
Pete Volbeda, 199 Monte Vista, San Dimas. architect for Mr. Matter,
explained at length the architectural design of the house and his
interpretation of the guidelines which were considered at the Planning
Commission meeting. He felt there are sufficient different styles in
the neighborhood that this one will not stand out. He noted that the
fact that it is referred to as a Tudor house seems to be one of the
reasons for opposing. The property itself is 186 feet deep and. as
stated previously, the setback is 63 feet from the curbline ... about
45% of the existing house will remain. In response to a question as
to what constitutes a Tudor house. Mr. Volbeda stated, in part. that
it is a combination of the turrets, the style, the windows. the pitch
of the roof. for instance.
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Fred Jahnke, 11. Hacienda Drive, Chairman for the Architectural Review
Board of the Santa Anita Oaks Homeowners' Association, spoke at length
presenting the Review Board's procedure. Mr. Jahnke stated, in part,
that he was misquoted in the transcript of the meeting before the
Planning Commission'. He said the Board, considered the neighborhood
with some considerations being given to the basic form of structures
on the street near San Carlos. It did not consider San Carlos as the
prime street under consideration or the prime portion of the neighbor-
hood.
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Signatures on a petition were referenced and he submitted, in part,
that the proposed home is really not compatible with existing homes
in the neighborhood. He felt the materials are not compatible
especially the copper roof which the Board felt would not be appropriate
for the neighborhood. He noted the heavy use of turrets. The Board
just feels the design does not fit the neighborhood ... they do have -,
Tudor homes on the street ... they were only asking that the house be
set back instead of having everything directly up front. A redesign
would benefit the area. The Board does not mind the two story home ...
they have approved other two story homes. They are not turning down
on the Tudar style ... any particular style of architecture .., they
are asking for increased individual initiative in design which would
bring this project into a better position of harmony, compatibility
and proportion so as to fit in with the rest of the neighborhood.
Mr, Jahnke also stated that the Board reviews the immediate neighbor-
hood, not the entire Oaks area.
(When Mayor Young was called from the Chamber, Mayor Pro Tempore Gilb
.chaired the proceedings.)
Gino Roncelli, 1250 Ramona Road, Past President of the Santa Anita
oaKS Homeowners' Association, and a member of the Architectural Review
Board, stated, in part, that most of those in the area moved there
because of the large beautiful lots ... the trees and the privacy
they have between the homes .., but to have a house 30 feet high
10 feet from your yard, in his opinion, would be an intrusion ...
the proposed house is out of proportion for the neighborhood.
Oavid Sullivan, 1320 Oaklawn Road, agreed with the decision of the
~tectural Review Board and submitted that he believes that those in
opposition do not feel the home would be offensive or would be an ugly
structure ... he has no objection to any particular style, but the
problem with this house is the size of the lot on which this large
structure is to be placed, He had a letter in support of the Review
Board's action from the owner of 1400 Oaklawn Road. He felt this
conflict is unfortunate.
Gerard Conijn, 1331 Oaklawn Road said, in part, there are nine home-
owners represented at this meeting ... they have no problem with the
design itself ... the massive structure just would not fit the neighbor-
hood. He made reference to Resolution 5290 -- regulations applicable
to real property in the subject area and asked Council to consider
these.
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William Reeder, 1444 Oaklawn Road, submitted that he was one of the
flrst to purchase land on Oaklawn Road, and built his home in 1953
and that although there were no legal aspects then, the homes were all
one story homes and they bought on that basis. Mr. Reeder supported
the decision of the Architectural Review Board.
Richard Parker, 315 Arbolada, President of the Santa Anita Oaks
Homeowners' Association, spoke in opposition to the proposed construction
... he has no objection to the design but where the home is to be placed
... there would be no problem if it were to be built adjacent to where
he lives on Arbolada on lots that are 120' x 280' with a 90 foot setback
.,. the house appears to be massive and out of place. He supported the
Review Board in its decision.
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29:0091
Mr. Matter spoke in rebuttal... the cost to them will be about
$foo,ooo and in reply to how large it is, he said th~t is one of
the main reasons they would have such heavy landscaplng ... at one time
they did talk about moving the house back on the lot ... he felt it is
a personal matter of taste ... and freedom ... they would not be
infringing on anyone's property... they are not trying to do anything
improper or should not do.
The hearing was CLOSED on MOTION by Councilmember Gilb, seconded
by Councilmember Lojeski and CARRIED.
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Councilmember Harbicht stated, in part, that in this case there is the
question of property rights and personal freedom ... with which he is
a strong believer ... that a person should be able to do what he
desires with his property, but there is also the matter of property
rights of the people around him. The Architectural Review Board in
this area and other areas have refined the zoning process. This kind
of issue is the worst kind of decision Council has to make because
it is based on aesthetic and subjective judgment. However, one of the
questions Council has to address is "does this meet one of the
specifications of the Review Board ... that being the application for
a structure that is out of proportion to adjacent and other structures
in the neighborhood". He referred to the statements:which have been
made and the letters which have been received .,. all feel the proposed
home will not be in harmony and will be out of proportion with the
neighborhood. He did not think those in opposition hove any ulterior
motive .,. just that they sincerely feel it is inconsistent with what
is currently there. That has been persuasive and he would deny the
ap~eal, thereby upholding the action of the Architctural Reyiew Board
and the Planning Commission.
Councilmember Chandler then stated, in part, that he holds the same
viewpoint as Councilmember Harbicht, however, after being present at
the Planning Commission hearings,there is no question in his mind but
that this would be a quality home and quality design ... with which he
felt those in opposition would agree. It is inevitable that on Oaklawn
Road as well as the remainder of the Oaks, and all of Arcadia for that
matter, the land is so valuable that it cannot be overbuilt. In the
subject instance, the homes range in age from 25 to 40 years ... these
homes will undoubtedly eventually be purchased and improved. Initially,
he thought the architect's plans were bleak and stark. In visiting the
property, he noticed the Sycamore trees on each side which the rendering
being reviewed by Council brings out in proposed landscaping. He felt
the Planning Commission did not have this rendering to review. In
considering the setback, he felt 63 feet is quite a distance from the
curb ... there are some which have a 50 foot setback. He concluded
that he would take an opposing position to Councilmember Harbicht.
Councilmember Gilb said, in part, that he thinks any land may be over-
built In his review of the two story design, he wondered why the
Architectural Review Board ever approved a specific two story house
on his street, Singingwood Drive. He has visited the subject site and
felt the proposed design does not fit the neighborhood. He expressed
understanding and appreciated the efforts of the applicant, but he
believed the other residents in the area have some rights to want
something compatible. He would support the Architectural Review Board.
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Councilmember Lojeski said, in part, that to him the issue is not
the style or the use of materials and not the height of the proposed
home. He felt it is the straightness and the starkness of the front
of the house ... no breakup ... that perhaps a return to the drawing
board would not be an unreasonable request ... perhaps the monotony
of the straight front coul~ be broken. It appears to be a, very lovely
home except for the straight view from the street. He recalled that
when he built his home, he did some things architEct~rally to try
to break,up the monotony of the straight lines; He was not opposed
to the materials which are to be used or the particular style ... but
agreed with the Planning Commission and the Architectural Review
Board and the neighbors that the front line of the house needs to
be softened.
MOTI ON TO
DENY THE
APPEAL
Mayor Young said, in part, that consideration must be given to values
of living in Arcadia, particularly those areas that have Homeowners'
Associations ... these were created when deed restrictions were coming
to an end .,. they have upheld the quality of the City in those five
areas. Perhaps other areas could form such associations if the
residents got together. The Architectural Review Boards are essential
in maintaining the areas and she would have to uphold the findings of
this Board for various reasons... a two story house is very,acceptable.
She noted certain guidelines of the Board relate to the structure
being harmonious with the surrounding proprties. She expressed sympathy
for the Matter family... "a home is a man's 'castle" ... but sympathized
with the neighbors also. She agreed with Councilmember Lojeski
in suggesting that the architect make some changes which will make the
house acceptable and still not rel inquish size... it could be an
addition to the neighborhood in an acceptable manner which would
make all the neighbors happy.
It was then MOVED by Councilmember Harbicht, seconded by Councilmember
Lojeski and CARRIED on roll call vo~e as follows that the Appeal be
DENIED; that the decision of the Planning Commission be AFFIRMED and
that staff be directed to prepare the appropriate resolution reflect-
ing Council's decision and action.
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
Councilmembers Gilb, Harbicht, Lojeski and Young
Councilmember Chandler
None
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1/6/87
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2.
3.
3a.
ROLL CALL
3b.
MINUTE
APPROVAL
3c.
PROPERTY
ACQUISITION )
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CLOSED
SESSION
ARA
4.
5.
29:0093
THE CITY COUNCIL RECESSED IN ORDER TO ACT AS THE
ARCADIA REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY
PRESENT: Members Chandler, Gilb, Harbicht, Lojeski and Young
ABSENT: None
Minutes of December 16, 1986 meeting not on agenda.
The Assistant City Manager for Economic Development advised
that the Agency had reached an agreement with Mr. and Mrs. Robert
Kleckner, owners of the land and business at 218-222 E. Huntington
Drive (Bob's Beef Burgers) for acquisition of said land, improvements
and any and all other claims for, including and not limited to
acquisition of furniture, fixtures and equipment inventory, lease-
hold interests, goodwill, relocation, etc., for a total of $497,500,
$400,000 of which is allocated to land. Staff recommended the approval
of this agreement.
It was MOVED by Member Lojeski. seconded by Member Chandler and
CARRIED on roll call vote as follows that the Agency approve the
purchase of the above land and business as stated and that the
Executive Director be AUTHORIZED to execute all documents related
thereto.
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AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
,
Members Chandler, Gilb, Harbicht, Lojeski and Young
None
None
The City Attorney stated that, due to recent changes in the Brown
Act, direction can be given to staff and the agreement with Mr. and
Mrs. Kleckner shall be placed on the next agenda for touncil action.
The Agency adjourned to a CLOSED SESSION at the end of the regular
meeting this date. The City Attorney advised that the Agency will
be discussing instructions to the negotiators for properties known
as Andy's and the Derby Restaurant.
CITY COUNCIL RECONVENED
AUDIENCE PARTICIPATION
Dale Spickler, 414 E. 'Duarte Road, spoke concerning the service he has
been receiving from Best Disposal, primarily in his effort to have his
Christmas tree picked up. It was noted by staff that Bob Cheney of
Best Disposal will be notifying all his customers about the service I
changes and new rates. Mayor Young asked that staff ascertain just
when thjs.wi11 come about. Staff explained details of the contract and
new pol1cles.
Ron Mullen, 301 W. Norman Avenue, referred to problems he is encounter-
ing with a neighbor who has horses on the premises on a daily basis, un-
loading and loading them in the street .,'. he has met with the City
Attorney and the owner, but the problem still exists. The City Attorney
explained the legal procedure and the status of the situation at the
present time. Appreciation was expressed to Mr. Mullen for bringing
this to Council's attention.
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6. )'
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6a.
TRACT MAP
44801
Final Map
(313-315
Genoa Street)
6b.
CONSULTANT
Commerc1 a 1
Rehabilitation
Program
(Willdan
Associates)
6c.
WORK
. .{ O(J:ACCEPTANCE
r (Job No. 620)
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6d.
VEH rCLE
TOWING
SERVICE
AGREEMENT
(G & S
Towing)
fJo11
7.
7a.
ORDINANCE
NO. 1849
(INTRODUCED)
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8.
MUSEUM
CHAMBER
USE
DENIED
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CONSENT ITEMS
APPROVED the Final Map No. 44801 for a proposed 6-unit residential
condominium project at 313-315 Genoa Street, filed December 17, 1986
by Engles Shen and Associates on behalf of King Tai Investment Co.,
a California Limited Partnership (James J. C. Shieh and Sen-Hsiang
Hsu, general partners and owners of the subject site).
APPROVED Wil1dan Associates as Consultant for the Commercial Rehabilita-
tion Program. Two proposals were received: one from Wi11dan Associates
and the other from Mark Briggs & Associates. Staff was AUTHORIZED to
prepare the necessary contract and the Mayor was AUTHORIZED to sign said
contract. Promotion costs will vary depending on how many meetings,
but should not exceed $8,000 with projects costs $1;380 per applicant.
ACCEPTED and AUTHORIZED final payment pursuant to the terms of the
contract for work performed by United Pacific Corporation for the
trimming and topping of 358 parkway trees. The final contract amount
of $53,950 was funded in the 1986-87 Public Works Department operating
budget. '
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APPROVED Official Police Garage Storage and Tow Service Agreement with
G & S Towing. The Mayor and the City Clerk were AUTHORIZED to execute
the Agreement in form approved by the City Attorney. The new agreement
is for a five year term.
ALu OF THE ABOVE CONSENT ITEMS WERE APPROVED ON MOTION BY COUNCILMEMBER
HARBICHT, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER LOJESKI AND CARRIED ON ROLL CALL VOTE
AS FOLLOWS:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
Counci1members Chandler, Gi1b, Harbicht, Lojeski and Young
None
None
CITY ATTORNEY
The City Attorney presented for introduction, explained the content
and read the title of Ordinance No. 1849, entitled: "AN ORDINANCE
OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ARCADIA, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING THE
UNIFORM BUILDING CODE AND ADDING A PART 6 TO CHAPTER 7 OF ARTICLE
VIII OF THE ARCADIA MUNICIPAL CODE REGARDING SECURITY BARS, METAL
GRATES AND SIMILAR SECURITY DEVICES IN RESIDENTIAL, COMMERCIAL AND
INDUSTRIAL ZONES".
It was MOVED by Counci1member Harbicht, seconded by Counci1member
Gi1b and CARRIED on roll call vote as follows that Ordinance No. 1849
be and it is hereby INTRODUCED.
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
Counci1members Chandler, Gi1b, Harbicht, Lojeski and Young
None
None
MATTERS FROM STAFF
The City Manager advised that Herb Goddard had advised on the status
of the museum building. It is expected to open in June.
Council considered the request of Dennis Alfieri for permission to use
the Council Chamber for a community meeting to discuss plans for a
tennis club proposed to be located on a portion of the Santa Anita
Debris Disposal Basin in North A~cadia. 'It wa~ the fonsenius'of the
Council that the facility isn't large enough to accommodate such a
large community meeting and the request was denied.
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29:0095
9.
LOJESKI
~,TTERS FROM ELECTED OFFICIALS
In response to his question, staff advised that persons should be
able to move into a home after the final signoff.
LOJESKI
Proposed having a meeting with Recreation Director, City Manager
and a School Official to consider the need for and service provided by
the Youth Commission. Counci1member Lojeski is Council Liaison to
this Commission and felt such a meeting would be productive for both
the Commission and the City. Current activities and perhaps the
introduction of new ones could be explored.
Advised that she had received a card from a gentleman from Tripo1is,
Greece (Sister City) who had visited the City last year. Apparently
things are changing there and it is becoming a very close democratic
type of. government
Referred to a newspaper article she had seen indicating the intention
of the School ~istrict to rent Foothills Junior High School for church
services at nominal fees and asked if staff could submit any input
on this. The City Manager said, in part, that he had contacted the
Superintendent of Schools on this and was informed that the School had
contacted the County Counsel who had advised that it was not unusual
for schools ... that many communities do this. The City Attorney will
contact the County Counsel for more information. Mayor Young and
Council expressed concern about the parking situation in the area.
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YOUNG
YOUNG
YOUNG
Mayor Young said he had received a letter from the County Public
Works Department regarding the flight patterns of the E1 Monte Airport.
T~is was available for Council. She also had received a communication
from the Los Angeles County Animal Control in response to one which
she had written. The Animal Control people expressed appreciation for
the City's response and hoped the matter will be considered again at
contract renewal time.
CLOSED
SESS ION
&
ADJOURNMENT
(Jan.20,1987)
Council entered a CLOSED SESSION at 9:45 p. m., reconvened and adjourned
at 10:00 p. m. to 7:00 p. m., January 20, 1987 in the Conference Room
to conduct the business of the Council and Agency and any Closed Session
necessary to discuss personnel, litigation matters and evaluation of
properties.
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ATTEST:
1/6/87
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