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TO:
August 6, 2013
Honorable Mayor and City Council
STAFF REPORT
Development Services Department
FROM: Jason Kruckeberg, Assistant City Manager /Development Services Director
Lisa Flores, Planning Services Manager
By: Nick Baldwin, Assistant Planner
SUBJECT: AN APPEAL OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION DENIAL OF
CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT NO. CUP 13 -03 AND ARCHITECTURAL
DESIGN REVIEW NO. ADR 13 -05 TO CONVERT THE FORMER 42,236
SQUARE FOOT GROCERY STORE AT 16 EAST LIVE OAK AVENUE
TO A SAVERS THRIFT SUPERSTORE
Recommendation: Uphold the Appeal, approve the applications with
the recommended conditions of approval, and find that the project is
exempt from CEQA pursuant to Section 15301
SUMMARY
The applicant is requesting approval of Conditional Use Permit No. CUP 13 -03 and
Architectural Design Review No. ADR 13 -03 to change the use of a former Ralph's
grocery store to a Savers Thrift Superstore and make minor changes to the exterior of
the building at 16 E. Live Oak Avenue. A public hearing was held with the Planning
Commission on June 11, 2013, and the project was denied on a vote of 3 -2 following
the adoption of Resolution No. 1876 at the meeting of June 25, 2013. The applicant
subsequently appealed the Planning Commission decision. It is recommended that the
City Council uphold the appeal and approve the applications, subject to the conditions
listed in this staff report, and find that the project is exempt from CEQA. A resolution will
be provided at the next City Council meeting reflecting the decision of the Council.
BACKGROUND
The applicant is proposing a Savers Thrift Superstore ( "Savers ") in the 42,236 square -
foot building that was formerly occupied by a Ralph's grocery store. Ralphs vacated
this building in May of this year. Savers is a chain thrift store that sells used goods, such
as clothing, books, housewares, and furniture. There are four other Savers stores in
Southern California, located in La Mirada, Anaheim, Riverside and Murrieta. A
Conditional Use Permit is required to operate a thrift store in the Mixed Use Zone.
Architectural Design Review is necessary for minor exterior alterations, new paint, and
Appeal — Savers Thrift Superstore, 16 E. Live Oak Avenue
August 6, 2013
Page 2 of 6
signage. The Staff recommendation was for approval of the applications with conditions.
The June 11, 2013, Planning Commission Staff Report and exhibits are included as
Attachment "A ".
The Planning Commission voted 3 -2 to deny the applications on June 11 and adopted
Resolution No. 1876 on June 25 formally denying the project. On July 1, 2013, the City
received a letter of Appeal from Savers (Attachment "B "). In addition, the City received
two letters of opposition to the project from nearby residents.
DISCUSSION
Savers sells used goods which are obtained through donations; either from individuals
that donate directly to the store, or from partnerships with local non - profit groups that
collect reusable clothing and household goods and then sell them to the Savers store.
The proposed thrift store will use most of the interior of the building as a retail store with
warehousing and processing of donated goods in the rear. An added feature will be a
Community Donation Center at the southwest corner of the store. The proposed
business hours of the thrift store are Monday through Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to
9:00 p.m., and Sundays from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Merchandise received and processed off -site that is to be sold at this location will be
received at a loading dock at the rear of the store. Goods donated by customers at this
location will be received at the Community Donation Center. Customers that are
dropping off goods to donate will park in designated spaces immediately outside the
Community Donation Center and they will be met by a store employee who will assist
with the goods.
The Donation Center was the focus of much of Staff's review of this project and the
Planning Commission's discussion. The Community Donation Center will be at the front
of the store, which is a prominent location that is highly visible from Santa Anita Avenue
and Live Oak Avenue. This visibility tends to discourage illegal dumping and
scavenging that can occur at thrift stores, and Savers will provide signage and 24 -hour
lighting of the Community Donation Center area to further discourage these activities.
The applicant's use of a trash compactor in lieu of standard garbage bins is an
additional measure that will discourage scavenging. Another concern associated with
large retail stores is the need to retain shopping carts on site. It is in the interest of both
the retailer and the community to prevent customers from leaving the premises with
shopping carts. This is expensive for the retailer, and because the carts are typically
abandoned in the surrounding neighborhoods, it creates a nuisance to the community.
For these reasons, a condition of approval has been added to require the applicant to
provide a shopping cart retention system.
Appeal — Savers Thrift Superstore, 16 E. Live Oak Avenue
August 6, 2013
Page 3 of 6
As a retail use, the proposed 42,236 square -foot thrift store is required to have five
parking spaces per 1,000 square -feet of gross floor area, which results in a parking
requirement of 212 spaces. This proposal provides 169 parking spaces, which is a 43
space deficiency. However, the current occupant of this location is a retail use, and a
parking modification was granted with CUP 90 -019 for the existing grocery store.
While the type of retail activity will differ from the current tenant, it was estimated by the
City Engineer that the thrift store will have significantly lower parking and traffic
demands than the grocery store, so neither a parking study nor traffic study was
requested for this proposal to reuse the building. The City Engineer finds the existing
parking and the ingress /egress to the site to be acceptable.
The location of the loading zone adjacent to the alley at the rear of the property poses a
circulation problem that needs to be addressed. When a full -sized freight truck is
docked in the loading bay and the tractor is not detached from the trailer, access to and
from the adjacent alley terminus is at least partially blocked. It is recommended as a
condition of approval that the applicant include provisions to ensure that at least 20 feet
clear access is maintained, and that these provisions be subject to approval by the City
Engineer.
Section 9275.1.2 of the Arcadia Municipal Code requires that for a Conditional Use
Permit to be granted, it must be found that all of the following prerequisite conditions
can be satisfied:
1. That the granting of such Conditional Use Permit will not be detrimental to the
public health or welfare or injurious to the property or improvements in such zone or
vicinity.
2. That the use applied for at the location indicated is properly one for which a
Conditional Use Permit is authorized.
3. That the site for the proposed use is adequate in size and shape to accommodate
said use, and all yards, spaces, walls, fences, parking, loading, landscaping, and
other features required to adjust said use with the land and uses in the
neighborhood.
4. That the site abuts streets and highways adequate in width and pavement type to
carry the kind of traffic generated by the proposed use.
5. That the granting of such Conditional Use Permit will not adversely affect the
comprehensive General Plan.
Based on the proposal, as further described in the Planning Commission Staff Report
(Attachment "A "), all the prerequisite findings can be made for this case if the
recommended conditions of approval listed below are adopted:
Appeal — Savers Thrift Superstore, 16 E. Live Oak Avenue
August 6, 2013
Page 4 of 6
1. Delivery and donation activities shall be prohibited between the hours of 9:00 p.m.
and 7:00 a.m., and any mechanical sweeping or other maintenance of the parking lot
and premises shall be conducted between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m.,
Monday through Saturday.
2. Measures shall be provided to ensure that at least 20 feet clear access to the alley
is maintained. These measures are subject to the approval of the City Engineer. In
the event of a public safety issue, the City Engineer may require the alley access be
closed to through traffic.
3. A shopping cart retention system that prevents shopping carts from being taken off
the premises shall be provided by the applicant, subject to approval by the
Community Development Administrator.
4. Business hours shall be from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., Monday through Saturday and
from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Sundays.
5. The street trees and damaged sidewalk in front and alongside the property shall be
removed and replaced as deemed necessary by the Public Works Services Director
or designee.
6. Any new exterior signage shall be subject to a separate sign design review
application that is subject to approval by the Community Development Administrator
or designee.
7. The use approved by CUP 13 -03 is limited to a thrift store that shall be operated
and maintained in a manner that is consistent with the proposal and plans
submitted and approved for CUP 13 -03 and ADR 13 -05, and shall be subject to
periodic inspections, after which the provisions of this Conditional Use Permit may
be adjusted after due notice to address any adverse impacts to the adjacent
streets, rights -of -way, and /or the neighboring businesses and properties.
8. The applicant shall comply with the City's recycling regulations. The design and
location of the recycling containers is subject to the approval of the Community
Development Administrator or designee.
9. All City requirements regarding disabled access and facilities, occupancy limits,
building safety, health code compliance, emergency equipment, environmental
regulation compliance, and parking and site design shall be complied with to the
satisfaction of the Building Official, City Engineer, Community Development
Administrator, Fire Marshal, and Public Works Services Director. Any changes to
the existing facility may be subject to having fully detailed plans submitted for plan
check review and approval, and to Building Permits.
Appeal — Savers Thrift Superstore, 16 E. Live Oak Avenue
August 6, 2013
Page 5 of 6
10. Noncompliance with the plans, provisions and conditions of approval for CUP 13 -03
and ADR 13 -05 shall be grounds for immediate suspension or revocation of any
approvals, which could result in the closing of the thrift store.
11. The applicant shall defend, indemnify, and hold harmless the City of Arcadia and its
officials, officers, employees, and agents from and against any claim, action, or
proceeding against the City of Arcadia, its officials, officers, employees or agents to
attack, set aside, void, or annul any approval or conditional approval of the City of
Arcadia concerning this project and /or land use decision, including but not limited to any
approval or conditional approval of the City Council, Planning Commission, or City Staff,
which action is brought within the time period provided for in Government Code Section
66499.37 or other provision of law applicable to this project or decision. The City shall
promptly notify the applicant of any claim, action, or proceeding concerning the project
and /or land use decision and the City shall cooperate fully in the defense of the matter.
The City reserves the right, at its own option, to choose its own attorney to represent the
City, its officials, officers, employees, and agents in the defense of the matter.
12. Approvals of CUP 13 -03 and ADR 13 -05 shall not take effect until the property
owner(s), applicant(s), and business owner(s) and operator(s) have executed and
filed an Acceptance Form with the Development Services Department to indicate
awareness and acceptance of these conditions of approval.
PLANNING COMMISSION DECISION
At the June 11 public hearing, the decision reached by the Planning Commission was to
deny the project based on the conclusion that the required findings for a Conditional
Use Permit could not be met. The Commission, in a 3 -2 vote, found that the granting of
a Conditional Use Permit would be detrimental to the public health or welfare and
injurious to the property or improvements in the vicinity. The Commission's discussion
and decision included concerns that the use could lead to the undesirable activities of
scavenging and illegal dumping of goods on site, and this issue was compounded by
the fact that this is a highly - visible location and a prominent "gateway" intersection
within the City of Arcadia. Furthermore, the Commission raised concerns about a
potential increase of City resources to monitor and provide enforcement services for the
location and concerns that new lighting in the area may be disruptive to the surrounding
community. These issues were viewed by the Commission to be detrimental to both the
existing single - family homes immediately adjacent to the site to the south, and, given
the overall visibility of this intersection, the public in general. Minutes from the June 11
Planning Commission meeting are included as Attachment "D ".
APPEAL OF COMMISSION DECISION
Savers' appeal letter and supporting materials are provided as Attachment "C ". The
appellants believe their proposal meets the prerequisite findings for a Conditional Use
Permit and will not have a negative impact on the surrounding vicinity. Within their
materials, Savers responds to the Commission's concerns with outside storage and
Appeal — Savers Thrift Superstore, 16 E. Live Oak Avenue
August 6, 2013
Page 6 of 6
operations of the store, including illegal dumping; the potential increase in City
resources to provide Code Enforcement services; and the proposed location of the
donation /drop -off area. Exhibit "A" to their appeal letter includes information on how the
drop -off of donations occurs. It is mentioned that in the event that illegal dumping should
occur, Savers is willing to install a surveillance camera, and /or hire an overnight security
guard at the location. In addition, the materials submitted by Savers include letters of
support from other retailers and a letter from Ralph's (property owner) that states the
building will not be leased to another grocery store and that "it is likely that the building
will remain vacant for many years due to the restrictions imposed by Senior
Management on the allowed type of tenant for this vacant building."
ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS
As a conversion of an existing facility, this project qualifies as a Class 1 Categorical
Exemption per the provisions of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to
Section 15301 of the CEQA Guidelines (Existing Facilities).
FISCAL IMPACT
There is no fiscal impact from this proposed action.
RECOMMENDATION
It is recommended that the City Council uphold the appeal, approve the applications
with the recommended conditions of approval, and find that the project is exempt from
CEQA pursuant to Section 15301. A resolution reflecting the City Council's decision will
be provided at the next Council meeting.
Approved.
Dominic Lazzar
City Manager
Attachment "A ": Planning Commission Staff Report dated June 11, 2013 and exhibits
Aerial Photo with Zoning Information
Photos of the Site
Proposed Plans
Preliminary Exemption Assessment
300 foot Radius Map
Attachment "B ": Saver's Appeal letter and associated exhibits
Attachment "C ": Letters of Opposition
Attachment "D ": Excerpt of Minutes from June 11, 2013 Planning Commission meeting
and Planning Commission Resolution No. 1876
x
STAFF REPORT
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Development Services Department
DATE: June 11, 2013
TO: Honorable Chairman and Planning Commission
FROM: Jim Kasama, Community Development Administrator
By: Nick Baldwin, Assistant Planner
SUBJECT: CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT NO. CUP 13 -03 AND ARCHITECTURAL
DESIGN REVIEW NO. ADR 13 -05 WITH A CLASS 1 EXEMPTION FROM
THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL. QUALITY ACT (CEQA) TO
CHANGE THE USE AND MAKE MINOR EXTERIOR ALTERATIONS OF
A 42,236 SQUARE FOOT GROCERY STORE (RALPHS) TO A THRIFT
STORE (SAVERS THRIFT SUPERSTORE) AT 16 E. LIVE OAK AVE.
Recommended Actions: Approve Conditional Use Permit No. 13 -03,
Approve Architectural Design Review No. ADR 13 -05, and Find that the
Project is a Class 1 Exemption from CEQA
SI IINiMBRY
The applicant is requesting approval of a Conditional Use Permit and Architectural
Design Review to change the use of an existing Ralphs grocery store to a Savers Thrift
Superstore and make minor changes to the exterior of the building at 16 E. Live Oak
Avenue — see the attached aerial photo, photos of the site, and proposed plans. It is
recommended that the Planning Commission approve these applications, subject to the
conditions listed in this staff report.
BACKGROUND
APPLICANT: Mr. Greg Parsons, Architect for Savers
LOCATION: 16 E. Live Oak Avenue
REQUEST: A Conditional Use Permit and Architectural Design Review approval for
the change of use of a 42,236 square -foot building from a grocery store
to a thrift store and to make minor alterations to the exterior of the
building.
SITE AREA: 110,586 square -feet (2.54 acres)
FRONTAGES: 394 feet along E. Live Oak Ave. & 280 feet along S. Santa Anita Ave.
EXISTING LAND USE & ZONING:
The site is developed with a 42,236 square -foot grocery store that was built in
1987. There are 169 on -site parking spaces. The site is zoned MU, Mixed Use.
SURROUNDING LAND USES & ZONING:
North: Gas station, coffee shop, and office building, zoned MU
South: Single- family residences, located in unincorporated LA County
East: Retail stores, zoned MU
West: Car wash, located in Temple City
GENERAL PLAN DESIGNATION:
Mixed Use (1.0 FAR & 22 -30 du/ac) — The Mixed Use designation provides
opportunities for commercial and residential mixed -use development that takes
advantage of easy access to transit and proximity to employment centers, and
that provide complementary mixes of uses that support and encourage
pedestrian activity. Mixed -use districts support commercial uses that integrate
well with residential activity without creating conflicts. Development approaches
encourage shared use of parking areas and public open spaces, pedestrian
movement, and interaction of uses within a mixed -use district. Design
approaches should minimize or limit curb cuts /driveways at the front of the
development when rear or side egress options are available.
DISCUSSION
The applicant is proposing a Savers Thrift Superstore in the 42,236 square -foot building
that is currently occupied by a Ralphs grocery store. Savers is a chain thrift store with
four other stores in Southern California located in La Mirada, Anaheim, Riverside and
Murrieta. The proposed thrift store will primarily operate as a retail store, but will also
operate as a receiving center for the donation of used goods, such as clothing, books,
housewares, and furniture. The proposed thrift store will use most of the interior of the
building as a retail store with warehousing and processing of donated goods in the rear.
An added feature will be a Community Donation Center at the southwest corner of the
store. The proposed business hours of the thrift store are Monday through Saturday
from 9:00 a.m. to 9 p.m., and Sundays from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Merchandise received and processed off -site that is to be sold at this location will be
received at a loading dock at the rear of the store. Goods donated by customers at this
location will be received at the Community Donation Center located at the front corner
of the store. Customers that are dropping off goods to donate will park in designated
spaces immediately outside the Community Donation Center and they will be met by a
store employee who will assist with the goods.
Undesirable activities associated with thrift stores and donation centers are the dumping
of goods outside of business hours, and scavenging. The applicant is aware of these
concerns and is committed to addressing them. The Community Donation Center will
be at the front of the store, which is a prominent location that is highly visible from Santa
CUP 13 -03 & ADR 13 -05
16 E. Live Oak Avenue
June 11, 2013 — Page 2 of 7
Anita Avenue and Live Oak Avenue. This visibility tends to discourage the previously
mentioned undesirable activities, and Savers will provide signage and 24 -hour lighting
of the Community Donation Center area to further discourage these activities. The
applicant's use of a trash compactor in lieu of standard garbage bins is an additional
measure that will discourage scavenging.
Another concern associated with large retail stores is the need to retain shopping carts
on site. It is in the interests of both the retailer and the community to prevent customers
from leaving the premises with shopping carts. This is expensive for the retailer, and
because the carts are typically abandoned in the surrounding neighborhoods, it creates
a nuisance to the community. A condition of approval is that the applicant shall provide
a shopping cart retention system.
Parking and Traffic
As a retail use, the proposed 42,235 square -foot thrift store is required to have five
parking spaces per 1,000 square -feet of gross floor area, which results in a parking
requirement of 212 spaces. This proposal provides 969 parking spaces, which is a 43
space deficiency. However, the current occupant of this location is a retail use, and a
parking modification was granted with CUP 90 -019 for the existing grocery store.
While the type of retail activity will differ from the current tenant, it was estimated by the
City Engineer that the thrift store will have significantly lower parking and traffic
demands than the grocery store, so neither a parking study nor traffic study was
requested for this proposal. The City Engineer finds the existing parking and the
ingress /egress to the site to be acceptable.
The location of the loading zone adjacent to the alley at the rear of the property poses a
circulation problem that needs to be addressed. When a full -sized freight truck is
docked in the loading bay and the tractor is not detached from the trailer, access to and
from the adjacent alley terminus is at least partially blocked. Staff is recommending as
a condition of approval that the applicant include provisions to ensure that at least 20
feet clear access is maintained, or that the alley be closed to through traffic, and that
these provisions be subject to approval by the City Engineer.
Architectural Design Review
The applicant is proposing only minor alterations to the exterior of the existing retail
building. The primary changes are repainting of the building's exterior and the addition
of new signage, which is preliminarily shown on the attached plans, but will be subject
to a separate sign design review application. The creation of the Community Donation
Center at the front corner of the building will require a new ramp and door to provide
direct access from the parking lot. With the exception of any required accessibility
upgrades, the existing parking lot, lighting, and landscaping will remain unchanged. It is
Staffs opinion that the proposed design is consistent with the City's Architectural
Design Guidelines.
CUP 13 -03 & ADR 13 -05
16 E. Live Oak Avenue
June 11, 2013 — Page 3 of 7
FINDINGS
Section 9275.1.2 of the Arcadia Municipal Code requires that for a Conditional Use
Permit to be granted, it must be found that all of the following prerequisite conditions
can be satisfied:
1. That the granting of such Conditional Use Permit will not be detrimental to the
public health or welfare or injurious to the property or improvements in such zone or
vicinity. The proposed thrift store is consistent with the Zoning and General Plan
Land Use Designations of the site and will not have any adverse impacts to the
neighboring businesses or properties.
2. That the use applied for at the location indicated is properly one for which a
Conditional Use Permit is authorized. In the MU, Mixed Use Zone, a thrift store is
allowed with an approved Conditional Use Permit per Section 9275.1.55.2 of the
Arcadia Municipal Code.
3. That the site for the proposed use is adequate in size and shape to accommodate
said use, and all yards, spaces, walls, fences, parking, loading, landscaping, and
other features required to adjust said use with the land and uses in the
neighborhood. Based on the proposal, the ease of on -site circulation and access,
and the parking availability, the site is adequate for the thrift store.
4. That the site abuts streets and highways adequate in width and pavement type to
carry the kind of traffic generated by the proposed use. The proposed thrift store,
which is at the intersection of Santa Anita Avenue and Live Oak Avenue is
expected to attract less traffic than the existing grocery store at this location. These
streets are more than adequate for the type of traffic that is expected to be
generated by this use.
5. That the granting of such Conditional Use Permit will not adversely affect the
comprehensive General Plan. The proposed thrift store is a commercial use that is
consistent with the General Plan Land Use Designation of the site.
The proposed project, with the recommended conditions of approval will satisfy each
prerequisite condition, and all City requirements regarding disabled access and
facilities, occupancy limits, building safety, health code compliance, emergency
equipment, environmental regulation compliance, and parking and site design shall be
complied with to the satisfaction of the Building Official, City Engineer, Community
Development Administrator, Fire Marshal, and Public Works Services Director. Any
changes to the existing facility may be subject to having fully detailed plans submitted
for plan check review and approval, and to Building Permits,
ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS
If it is determined that no significant physical alterations to the site are necessary, then this
project, as a conversion of an existing facility qualifies as a Class 1 Categorical Exemption
per the provisions of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to Section
CUP 13 -03 & ADR 13 -05
16 E. Live Oak Avenue
June 11, 2013 — Page 4 of 7
15301 of the CEQA Guidelines. A Preliminary Exemption Assessment is attached to this
staff report. It is recommended that the Planning Commission determine that this project is
exempt from CEQA.
PUBLIC NOTICE/COMMENTS
Public hearing notices for CUP 13 -03 and Architectural Design Review ADR 13 -05 were
mailed on May 30, 2013 to the property owners, tenants, and occupants of those
properties that are within 300 feet of the subject property - see the attached radius map.
Because staff considers the proposed project exempt from the requirements of the
California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) the public hearing notice was not published
in a local newspaper. As of June 6, 2013, no comments were received in response to the
public hearing notices.
RECOMMENDATION
It is recommended that the Planning Commission approve Conditional Use Permit No.
CUP 13 -03 and Architectural Design Review No. ADR 13 -05, subject to the following
conditions:
1. Delivery and donation activities shall be prohibited between the hours of 9:00 p.m.
and 7:00 a.m., and that any mechanical sweeping or other maintenance of the
parking lot and premises shall be conducted between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 7:00
p.m., Monday through Saturday.
2. Measures shall be provided to ensure that at least 20 feet clear access to the alley
is maintained or that the alley is closed to through traffic, and that these provisions
are subject to the approval by the City Engineer.
3. A shopping cart retention system that prevents shopping carts from being taken off
the premises shall be provided by the applicant, subject to approval by the
Community Development Administrator.
4. Business hours shall be from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., Monday through Saturday and
from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Sundays.
5. The street trees and damaged sidewalk in front and alongside the property shall be
removed and replaced as deemed necessary by the Public Works Services Director
or designee.
6. Any new exterior signage shall be subject to a separate sign design review
application that is subject to approval by the Community Development Administrator
or designee.
7. The use approved by CUP 13 -03 is limited to a thrift store that shall be operated
and maintained in a manner that is consistent with the proposal and plans
submitted and approved for CUP 13 -03 and ADR 13 -05, and shall be subject to
periodic inspections, after which the provisions of this Conditional Use Permit may
CUP 13 -03 & ADR 13 -05
16 E. Live Oak Avenue
,tune 11, 2013 — Page 5 of 7
be adjusted after due notice to address any adverse impacts to the adjacent
streets, rights -of -way, and/or the neighboring businesses and properties.
8. The applicant shall comply with the City's recycling regulations. The design and
location of the recycling containers is subject to the approval of the Community
Development Administrator or designee.
9. All City requirements regarding disabled access and facilities, occupancy limits,
building safety, health code compliance, emergency equipment, environmental
regulation compliance, and parking and site design shall be complied with to the
satisfaction of the Building Official, City Engineer, Community Development
Administrator, Fire Marshal, and Public Works Services Director. Any changes to
the existing facility may be subject to having fully detailed plans submitted for plan
check review and approval, and to Building Permits.
10. Noncompliance with the plans, provisions and conditions of approval for CUP 13 -03
and ADR 13 -05 shall be grounds for immediate suspension or revocation of any
approvals, which could result in the closing of the thrift store.
11. The applicant shall defend, indemnify, and hold harmless the City of Arcadia and its
officials, officers, employees, and agents from and against any claim, action, or
proceeding against the City of Arcadia, its officials, officers, employees or agents to
attack, set aside, void, or annul any approval or conditional approval of the City of
Arcadia concerning this project and /or land use decision, including but not limited to any
approval or conditional approval of the City Council, Planning Commission, or City Staff,
which action is brought within the time period provided for in Government Code Section
66499.37 or other provision of law applicable to this project or decision. The City shall
promptly notify the applicant of any claim, action, or proceeding concerning the project
and /or land use decision and the City shall cooperate fully in the defense of the matter.
The City reserves the right, at its own option, to choose its own attorney to represent the
City, its officials, officers, employees, and agents in the defense of the matter.
12. Approvals of CUP 13 -03 and ADR 13 -05 shall not take effect until the property
owner(s), applicant(s), and business owner(s) and operator(s) have executed and
filed an Acceptance Form with the Development Services Department to indicate
awareness and acceptance of these conditions of approval.
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION
Approval
If the Planning Commission intends to approve this proposal, the Commission should move
to approve Conditional Use Permit No. CUP 13 -03 and Architectural Design Review No. 13-
05; state the supporting findings and environmental determination; and direct staff to prepare
a resolution for adoption at the next meeting that incorporates the Commission's decision,
specific determinations and findings, and the conditions of approval.
CUP 13 -03 & ADR 13 -05
16 E. Live Oak Avenue
June 11, 2013 — Page 6 of 7
Denial
If the Planning Commission intends to deny this proposal, the Commission should move
to deny Conditional Use Permit Application No. CUP 13 -03 and/or Architectural Design
Review No. 13 -05; state the finding(s) that the proposal does not satisfy with reasons
based on the record; and direct staff to prepare a resolution incorporating the
Commission's decision, and specific findings for adoption at the next meeting.
If any Planning Commissioner, or other interested party has any questions or comments
regarding this matter prior to the June 11, 2013 hearing, please contact Assistant
Planner, Nick Baldwin at (626) 574 -5444, or nbaldwinC�ci.arcadia.ca.us.
Approved:
Jimo,K�sama
Community Development Administrator
Attachments: Aerial Photo with Zoning Information
Photos of the Site
Proposed Plans
Preliminary Exemption Assessment
300 --foot Radius Map
CUP 13 -03 & ADR 13 -05
10 E. live Oak Avenue
June 11, 2013 -- Page 7 of 7
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PRELIMINARY EXEMPTION ASSESSMENT
1. Name or description of project:
Conditional Use Permit Nos. CUP 13 -03 and ADR 13 -05, for a
change of use of a 42,236 building from a grocery store to a thrift
store and minor exterior alterations.
2. Project Location — Identify street
16 E. Live Oak Avenue
address and cross streets or attach
a map showing project site
(Cross street — Santa Anita Avenue)
(preferably a USGS 15' or 7 112'
topographical map identified by
quadrangle name):
3. Entity or person undertaking
A.
project:
B. Other (Private)
(1) Name
Greg Parsons
(2) Address
11400 SE 6" St., Ste.220, Bellevue, WA
4. Staff Determination:
The Lead Agency's Staff, having undertaken and completed a preliminary review of this project in
accordance with the Lead Agency's "Local Guidelines for Implementing the California Environmental
Quality Act (CEQA)" has concluded that this project does not require further environmental assessment
because:
a. ❑
The proposed action does not constitute a project under CEQA.
b. ❑
The project is a Ministerial Project.
C. ❑
The project is an Emergency Project.
d. ❑
The project constitutes a feasibility or planning study.
e. ®
The project is categorically exempt.
Applicable Exemption Class: 15301, Class 1 (Existing Facilities).
f. ❑
The project is statutorily exempt.
Applicable Exemption:
g. ❑
The project is otherwise exempt
on the following basis:
h. ❑
The project involves another public agency which constitutes the Lead Agency.
Name of Lead Agency:
Date: June 7, 2013 Staff:
Preliminary Exemption Assessment12010 FORM "A"
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The Thrift Department Store
1 July 2013
City of Arcadia, City Council
Attn: Office of the City Clerk
240 West Huntington Drive
Arcadia, California 91007
Dear Sir or Madam
Family of Thrift Stores
LETTER OF APPEAL - RESOLUTION NO 1876
Pursuant to Section 9275.2.9 of the City of Arcadia Municipal Code ( "Code's and /or such other applicable
sections of the Code, TVI, Inc. dba Savers Thrift Superstore' (the "Applicant's hereby appeals Resolution No
1876 of the Planning Commission of the City of Arcadia which denied the Applicants Conditional Use Permit
Application No. CUP 13 -03 and Architectural Desgin Review No. ADR 13 -05 filed with the City of March 11,
2013 to change the use to a thrift store (the "Proposed Thrift Use's and make minor exterior alterations to
16 E. Live Oak Avenue, Arcadia (the "Premises'. A check in the sum of $540 is attached by way of the
applicable appeal fee.
Decision Sought by Applicant
The applicant requests that the City Council reverse Resolution No 1876 of the Planning Commission as
permitted by Section 9275.2.11 of the Code, and resolve to approve the Applicant's CUP 13 -03 Application and
ADR 13 -05 Application.
Applicant's Grounds for Appeal
The Applicant respectfully relies on the following grounds in support of its appeal:
1. Resolution No 1876 is inconsistent with the formal recommended actions of the City of Arcadia Staff
Report', which considered and determined that the Proposed Thrift Use by Savers Thrift Superstore
would satisfy each prerequisite condition of Section 9275.1.2 of the Code and all City requirements,
subject to specific recommended conditions of approval.
2. The Planning Commission did not substantiate its finding that the Proposed Thrift Use would be
detrimental to public health or welfare, or injurious to the property in the Mixed Use zone. The
Applicant submits that the Proposed Thrift Use meets the requirements of Section 9275.1.2(1) for the
following reasons:
(a) The Proposed Thrift Use of a retail secondhand store is comparable to a department store such as
Target or Kmart, with the exception of the sale of cosmetics and perishables — the only difference
being that the inventory is pre -owned rather than new. Savers Thrift Superstore offers a redefined
thrift shopping experience with clean, bright aisles that are neatly organized into specific
departments, with labeled shelves and racks. The operation of a retail department store creates
no risk for the safety, health and welfare of citizens.
1 City of Arcadia Staff Report submitted by Jim Kasama (Community Development Administrator) and prepared by Nick Baldwin
(Assistant Planner) dated June 11, 2013.
Address: 11400 SE 6th Street, Suite 220, Bellevue WA 98004 Phone: (425) 450 -2316 Email: dcree @savers.com
savers,
Family of Thrift Stares
TVI, Inc. dba Savers Thrift Superstore
Appeal to City of Arcadia City Council
Page 2 of 28
(b) The Applicant wholeheartedly agrees with the Planning Commission's position that keeping on -site
donation areas clean, organized and visually appealing is not only a top operational priority but
also important for public wellbeing. In support of such position in its nationwide retail operations
the Applicant has developed successful methods in which to directly target and prevent the
undesired activities of illegal dumping of goods that affect not only thrift operations but all types
of retail and commercial operations. More detail of the Applicant's on site donation operations
and procedures are attachedz.
The Applicant has also attached letters of support3 from multiple landlords of Savers locations
across the country, including some of the biggest retail portfolio owners /managers in the United
States — Brixmor Property Group, Colliers International and Highland Management.
These landlords attest to the fact that they have encountered no issues and have been more than
satisfied with how clean and tidy the Applicant has kept sites, with multiple landlords finding that
there has been no debris or illegal dumping issues whatsoever.
(c) The Applicant has signed a written lease agreement with Ralphs Grocery Company ( "Ralphs'%
the owner of the Premises, for a leasehold term of 10 years plus an additional 10 years in renewal
options at a market driven base rent for the Premises. The value of commercial property is
ultimately determined by the rent attainable. The Proposed Thrift Use has no effect on the value
of the Premises. Ralphs fully supports the use of the Premises by the Applicant, a conclusion
reached after Ralphs conducted comprehensive due diligence of the Applicant's retail business
operation S4. On a relevant note, for company policy reasons Ralphs has determined that it will not
allow the Premises to be occupied by a grocery or supermarket tenant, and therefore the
Proposed Thrift Use by the Applicant will prevent a potential extended vacancy of the site.
(d) The proposed architectural changes to the Premises by the Applicant represent an investment of
over $850,000 in leasehold improvements to the property, which will significantly improve the
appearance of the Premises and will be visually beneficial for the surrounding area, potentially
leading to an increase in property value in the surrounding area. In addition, Savers will furnish
the store with over $450,000 of fixtures, furniture and equipment, creating a first class retail
experience for the local community. An indicative display of the proposed exterior is attached-5.
(e) The Proposed Thrift Use will create over 50 full time and part time jobs for local citizens, and is
expected to generate an average of 4,000 transactions per week, creating taxable revenue for the
city and the state.
(f) The Proposed Thrift Use is vital in generating additional donations and increasing the charitable
revenue for the Applicant's not - for - profit partner Hope Services, allowing the charity to advance
its employment, training, and community living services for those persons with developmental
disabilities in the local areab.
3. Thrift has entered the mainstream and is one of the fastest growing retail segments, attracting both
families on a budget and six - figure professionals. The Applicant has recently opened successful Savers
stores in high end communities such as Scottsdale, Arizona; Highlands Ranch, Colorado;
Redmond, Washington; Boulder Colorado; Redwood City, California; and Framingham,
Massachusetts; and continues to expand and flourish in such environments. In each instance the
Z Summary of On Site Donations and Prevention of Illegal Dumping, attached hereto as Exhibit A.
3 Multiple letters of support from existing landlords, attached hereto as Exhibit B.
4 Letter of support from Greg Lukosky, Manager of Real Estate, Ralphs Grocery Company dated June 21, 2013, attached hereto as
Exhibit C.
5 Indicative display of proposed alterations by Applicant at Premises, attached hereto as Exhibit D.
6 Letter from John M Christensen, CEO, Hope Services dated June 25, 2013, attached hereto as Exhibit E.
Address: 11400 SE 6 th Street, Suite 220, Bellevue WA 98004 Phone: (425) 450 -2316 Email: dcree @savers.com
TVI, Inc. dba Savers Thrift Superstore
savers, Appeal to City of Arcadia City Council
Family of Thrift Stares Page 3 of 28
Applicant has worked in alliance with the local cities to meet all permitting and other requirements. In
City of Arcadia, the Applicant would provide a commercial use that would integrate well with the local
community and existing retail mix, and in particular fit within the goals for the Mixed Use zoning
designation in which the Premises falls.
We would like to take the opportunity to provide a little background about who the Applicant is and the extent
of its philanthropic and environmental contribution to the community and the globe.
Founded in 1954, the Savers' family of thrift stores' is North America's largest privately held thrift store chain
with more 320 locations and 19,000 employees in the United States, Canada and Australia. Savers stands out
with its inviting stores, but also because of its unique retail model. By purchasing and reselling pre -owned
merchandise, Savers provides essential funding to more than 150 nonprofit organizations; low -cost and high
quality goods to consumers; jobs and healthcare benefits to local residents, and benefits to the environment
through the reuse and recycling of used items.
Further, Savers believes that goods collected within local communities benefit local communities. That's why
the goods Savers provides in its stores are always tied to local nonprofit organizations. Every Savers store
supports one or more nonprofits in its community, and pays its partners for every donation. These partnerships
turn otherwise unused goods into sustainable revenue that supports nonprofits' vital community programs and
services, and in many instances, the ongoing revenue Savers provides amounts to a significant percentage of
nonprofits' annual budgets. Over the past 10 years, Savers has paid its collective nonprofit partners more than
$1.5 billion which helps fund their important work.
Savers also encourages a more sustainable world by reducing the strain on the environment's natural
resources. Savers prevents more than 600 million pounds of quality, reusable merchandise from ending up in
landfills each year, and operates one of the largest recycling programs in the world.
In addition to the attachments referenced above, we also attach for your consideration a presentation
package which further details the Savers business model and operations, as well as photos showing examples
of recently opened Savers stores throughout North America.
The Applicant is committed to providing a first class retail operation to benefit the community of City of
Arcadia, and welcomes the opportunity to work together with the City to meet its requirements and address
any potential concerns.
We encourage you to review the materials provided attached hereto, and to contact David Cree at (425) 450-
2316 with any additional questions or requests.
Kind regards,
David 3 Cree
Director of Real Estate
TVI, Inc. dba Savers
Also known as Value Village in the Pacific North West and across Canada.
e Savers' presentation package is attached as Exhibit F hereto.
Address: 11400 SE 6 th Street, Suite 220, Bellevue WA 98004 Phone: (425) 450 -2316 Email: dcree @savers.com
TVI, Inc. dba Savers Thrift Superstore
savers, Appeal to City of Arcadia City Council
Family of Thrift Stores Page 4 of 28
EXHIBIT A
SAVERS THRIFT SUPERSTORE
ON SITE DONATIONS & PREVENTION OF ILLEGAL DUMPING
The Savers organization appreciates the opportunity to share with the City of Arcadia our procedures regarding
the receipt of on -site donations, and our commitment to the communities in which we operate.
As you are aware, our shelves are stocked with mostly second -hand items purchased from local nonprofit
partners, which they collect from the community. Donated items are then sorted by our employees, and we
offer the highest quality goods to shoppers at great bargains.
As background, we call the donations we receive directly at the store from local residents on -site donations, or
OSD's. Our donation receiving areas are known as Community Donation Centers, or CDC's, because they are a
place where our neighbors can feel good about donating — while supporting global recycling efforts, and
helping our nonprofit partners provide important services to people in the community.
While we receive regular deliveries of merchandise from our nonprofit partners, on -site donations are critical to
running a successful store. Providing extraordinary value and selection for our customers is what makes our
retail offering unique, and our customers have come to expect an ever - changing assortment of high - quality
merchandise ranging from clothing to household items, vintage pieces to top designer labels, and everyday
items to collectables. Because many of our donors also shop at our stores, we find that the quality of goods
received at our CDC's is superior to other delivery methods. On -site donations also benefit our nonprofit
partners, because they receive payment for each donation brought directly to our stores.
People now more than ever are demanding excellent customer service and convenience, and our donors and
customers are no different. Similar to customers that utilize convenient drive -thru services at banks, drug
stores or fast food restaurants, some donors simply do not want to wait for a scheduled pick -up at their house,
and would prefer to drop off their goods on their way to work or while running errands. Our CDC's meet this
growing expectation.
Our cleanliness standards are high, as we recognize that our store's appearance, whether inside or outside,
sends an immediate message to the community about the importance of their donations to our stores and the
nonprofits we work with. In addition, we provide visible signage that clearly communicates our CDC policies to
donors, and specially- trained CDC Ambassadors are stationed at the area during store hours and are
immediately recognizable as the face of Savers and our nonprofit partners.
The donation experience typically takes less than 30 seconds, depending on the amount of goods brought by a
donor. When a vehicle pulls up to the designated area, an air -bell is sounded and the CDC Ambassador greets
the donor, removes the goods from the vehicle, and immediately brings the items into the store. Although the
CDC Ambassador is the main recipient of donations, all team members receive special training and have a
responsibility to monitor the area.
There are some additional facts we'd like to provide about the donation process that occurs at our stores:
• The majority of all donors live within three (3) miles of the store.
• 70% of all donations occur on Saturday and Sunday.
• Almost 95% of all donations occur during the daytime hours.
After hours illegal dumping is virtually non - existent when donations occur on the side or front of a property. In
the event that illegal dumping does occur, we have an arsenal of effective procedures we will implement to
combat the situation, including the installation of surveillance cameras, and as appropriate, the hiring of
overnight security personnel.
(Continued over page)
Address: 11400 SE 6 th Street, Suite 220, Bellevue WA 98004 Phone: (425) 450 -2316 Email: dcree @savers.com
TVI, Inc. dba Savers Thrift Superstore
Appeal to City of Arcadia City Council
Family of Thrill Stores Page 5 of 28
The Community Donation Center experience in City of Arcadia, California will be operated as follows:
• Donations will be received only during store hours.
• CDC Ambassadors will be stationed at the donation area during all store hours.
• Building signage will designate the CDC area and be both directional and informational.
• On -site, community donations will be received at the side of the building in a drive up configuration (see
attached picture at Exhibit D).
Finally, our business model is such that we log donations brought directly to the CDC's located at each of our
stores, and we pay our nonprofit partners for every item collected. This allows our partners to depend on a
steady stream of revenue that supports their much needed community programs and services.
Address: 11400 SE 6 th Street, Suite 220, Bellevue WA 98004 Phone: (425) 450 -2316 Email: dcree @savers.com
SCIVLk
Family of Thrift 5t
TVI, Inc. dba Savers Thrift Superstore
Appeal to City of Arcadia City Council
Page 6 of 28
EXHIBIT B
EXISTING LANDLORDS LETTERS OF SUPPORT
BRIXMOR TM
Attention City of Arcadia;
I am writing on behalf of Brixmor Property Group and our relationship with Savers in
our retail portfolio. Brixmor is the second largest owner of community and
neighborhood shopping centers in the United States. Brixmor owns and manages a
national portfolio of approximately 600 retail properties, encompassing more than 94
million square feet of retail space, which are strategically located across 39 states.
Savers currently operates locations in the following Brixmor shopping centers:
Naperville, Illinois Donation Drive -Thru facility on prominent side of building
Manchester, Connecticut Donation Drive -Thru facility on prominent side of building
Las Vegas, Nevada Donation Drive -Thru facility on the front of the store
Arlington Heights, Illinois Donation Drive -Up facility on the front of the store
Meriden, Connecticut Donation Drive -Up facility on the front of the store
Medford New York Donation Drive -Up facility on the front of the store
Donation Drive -Up facility on the front of the store
St. Paul, Minnesota
During their tenancy, Savers has run a first class donation facility in each of our
properties. Regardless of time or day, to date we have had no issues of any kind and
have actually been pleasantly surprised at how clean and tidy their donation areas
remain. Also worth noting, having their donation facilities in a highly visible and
accessible location at the front or side of the building has eliminated after hour illegal
dumping that often occurs behind shopping centers for many tenants and business
owners.
Savers co- exists with many other national retailers in our portfolio and the traffic
generated by the donation facility brings added customers to our shopping centers. We
continue to look for more opportunities to grow our relationship with the Savers
organization.
David Gerstenhaber
Vice President, National Accounts
Date
Brixmor Property Group ♦ 420 Lexington Avenue ♦ 71h Floor ♦ New York, NY 10170 ♦ Phone 212.869.3000 ♦ Fax 212.869.3989 ♦ Brixmor.com
Address: 11400 SE 61h Street, Suite 220, Bellevue WA 98004 Phone: (425) 450 -2316 Email: dcree @savers.com
=VM
Family of Thrift Stores
TVI, Inc. dba Savers Thrift Superstore
Appeal to City of Arcadia City Council
Page 7 of 28
Minneapolis - St. Paul 4350 Baker Road, Suite 400 maim +l 952 897 7700
Minnoonlca, MN 55343 Fax +1 952 897 7704
w .cdliiers.com CoMers
INTERNATIONAL
June 26, 2013
Re: TVI, Inc. dba Savers, Northtown Village, Coon Rapids MN
To Whom It May Concern:
TVI, Inc. dba Savers opened a 29,876 sf store in Northtown Village Shopping Center,
1060 -2 Coon Rapids Blvd, Coon Rapids MN, in April, 2013. To accommodate Savers'
community donation process, the Landlord re- designed a portion of the cement curb at the
storefront and added a small donation location as shown on the attached design plan. The
City of Coon Rapids was amenable to this change in the storefront drive lane and the use
to the leased premises. Since Savers opened in April of this year, we have had no debris
or illegal dumping issues in or near their donation facility. Savers has proven to be clean,
conscientious and welcome addition to Northtown Village.
Please feel free to give us a call if you have questions or would like to talk directly.
Sincerely,
Terese Reiling
Vice President
Colliers Minneapolis —St. Paul
4350 Baker Road
Suite 400
Minnetonka MN 55343
DROP -OFF TAI
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Address: 11400 SE 6 ch Street, Suite 220, Bellevue WA 98004 Phone: (425) 450 -2316 Email: dcree @savers.com
=VM
Family of Thrift Stares
HIGHLAND
MANAGEMENT
ASSOCIATES, INC.
June 27, 2013
Mr. David Cree
Director of Real Estate
Savers, Inc.
11400 SE 60 Street
Bellevue, WA 98004
TVI, Inc. dba Savers Thrift Superstore
Appeal to City of Arcadia City Council
Page 8 of 28
1 East 22nd Street, Suite 201
Lombard, IL 60148
(630) 691 -1122
Fax (630) 691 -8572
RE: Savers Tenancy at Country Corners Shopping Center, Crystal Lake, IL
Dear Mr. Cree,
1 am writing to express our gratitude and thanks for your staff's hard work at the Crystal
Lake, IL location of Savers, Inc. As you are aware, Savers, Inc. opened in November
2011 at Country Corners Shopping Center in Crystal Lake, IL, which we have owned and
managed since 1992,
As you are also aware, we worked with Savers and your team to secure a special-use
permit with the City of Crystal Lake for a covered donation drop -off location on the front
of the building. Having completed a renovation of the center facade in 2008 / 2009 at a
cost of more than seven hundred thousand dollars, we shared concerns with the City of
Crystal Lake about the architectural features of the drop off canopy and the potential for
"dumping" in front of the building. Naturally, the City and Highland Management were
both interested in avoiding anything that would detract from the attractiveness of the
overall center and in keeping a first class operating environment for the other Tenants at
the shopping center. While we clearly had some reservations, your team assured us that
you would take the appropriate security measures (closed circuit TV, policing the drop
off area, etc.) and would work tirelessly and diligently to avoid any such dumping
problems. I am pleased to say almost two years into Savers' tenancy at Country Corners,
we have had absolutely no issues with dumping of trash or donations in the front of the
building. In the rare event something was left outside the store during non - business
hours, your staff has been there to clean up and remove any items prior to us having any
complaints for either the local authorities or the other tenants of the Shopping Center. I
want to commend you and your staff for keeping your ward and diligently working to
keep the front of the Shopping Center clean. Your tenancy and hard work is a positive
reflection on the Shopping Center, and the recent addition of Dollar Tree, the renewal of
TJ Maxx and the expansion of Petco indicate that Savers is good for the Shopping Center
and the local economy.
Should anyone havc rrscrvatims about the addition of Savers or a drop oft`eampy to
661 cutter Orcornmunity, I would urge them to contact me w (630) j591 -1122, extension
1 1 have no reservations about Ehc decision we made to Support and altow the drop off
l alion in front -of the store_ Thank you &&n,
7,_4 "JI
Charles S. Margosim [H
Senior V e President and PrimipaJ
Address: 11400 SE 6 ch Street, Suite 220, Bellevue WA 98004 Phone: (425) 450 -2316 Email: dcree @savers.com
S 0-
avem
Family of Thrift Stores
TVI, Inc. dba Savers Thrift Superstore
Appeal to City of Arcadia City Council
Page 9 of 28
EXHIBIT C
LETTER OF SUPPORT FROM PREMISES OWNER
RALPHS GROCERY STORE
14:;0DJ0 " lEss�
P. 0. Sox 54143 • Los Angeles, Cafffornia 90054 • (310) 8849000
June 21, 2013
Nick Baldwin
Assistant Planner
City of Arcadia
240 W. Huntington Dr.
Arcadia, CA 91066
Re: Vacant Ralphs Grocery Store
16 E. Live Oak Ave.
Dear Mr. Baldwin,
Ralphs Grocery Company is writing to inform the City of Arcadia of its support for the
Conditional Use Permit application by Savers Thrift Superstore at the above referenced
location.
Unfortunately, Ralphs was required to close this location due to the negative financial
performance of this store. We have been a valued member of the community for over 50
years and continue to operate Ralphs in the City of Arcadia.
We have done our due diligence with the retail operational experience of Savers and feel
extremely satisfied that they will provide a store that will be well managed, well
maintained and appealing to the community. Savers will be providing local jobs to the
community and enhancing a vacant property.
Please keep in mind that Ralphs has no intention of leasing or selling this property to a
food store, supennarket or grocery store operation. If this CUP is denied, it is likely that
the building will remain vacant for many years due to the restrictions imposed by senior
management on the allowed type of tenant for this vacant building.
We look forward to working with the City of Arcadia in moving this exciting
development forward to keep this retail building in a vibrant and appealing manner.
Sincerely,
Ralphs ro ryyompann
Greg ro_y . Lukosky
Manager - Real Estate
Address: 11400 SE 6 ch Street, Suite 220, Bellevue WA 98004 Phone: (425) 450 -2316 Email: dcree @savers.com
2"I'Vem
Family of Thrift Stores
EXHIBIT D
PROPOSED EXTERIOR IMPROVEMENTS
TO PREMISES
TVI, Inc. dba Savers Thrift Superstore
Appeal to City of Arcadia City Council
Page 10 of 28
k - 1tJ�1�51 � tiiC? lt
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PROPOSED CONDITIONS
EXISTING CONDITIONS
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Address: 11400 SE 61' Street, Suite 220, Bellevue WA 98004 Phone: (425) 450 -2316 Email: dcree@savers.com
a
Family of Thrift Stares
TVI, Inc. dba Savers Thrift Superstore
Appeal to City of Arcadia City Council
Page 11 of 28
EXHIBIT E
LETTER FROM NOT FOR PROFIT PARTNER
HOPE SERVICES
4 1 k � hope services
June 25, 2013
Nick Baldwin
Assistant Planner
City of Arcadia
240 W. Huntington Drive
Arcadia. CA 91066
Dear Mr. Baldwin,
Re: Vacant Ralphs Grocery Store
16 E- Live Oak Avenue
We are pleased to support the City of Arcadia Conditional Use Permit application by Savers Thrift
Superstore at the vacant Ralph's Grocery Store at 16 East Live flak.
Savers is an excellent company, well managed, customer focused, generous and inspiring.
We are Hope Services, a 60 year old non - profit organization providing social enterprise opportunities, job
training, counseling and community living for people with developmental disabilities. Among many
businesses, we have a re -use and recycle program for donations of clothes and household items, through
pickup services and drop off locations. These donations are resold at Savers Thrift stores in Northern and
Southern California. Proceeds directly benefit HOPE clients and help the environment by collecting items
that avoid the landfill-
Because of Savers, Hope has been able to provide our clients with jobs, as well as the ability to earn a
living and take their place in our communities- This program helps to reduce the 87% unemployment rate
for Californians with developmental disabilities.
Since 1970, Hope is proud to be among the 140 non - profits in the Savers partner network- Over the last
10 years alone, Savers has paid more than $1.5 billion to nonprofits like Hope-
We are particularly excited about our recent expansion of an environmentally friendly recycling donation
center at Westfield Mall in West Covina. Proceeds from those sales pay the salaries of people with
developmental disabilities who work at our center and provide cleanup services at the mall location. The
donated clothes and items are then sold through Savers-
We "hope" that the City of-A a moves forward with the permit process and Savers.
Sincerely, _.
M. Christensen
Amazing is all in a day's work.
30 Las Gcl0as Lane • San Jose. CA 951 t9 -t 2t 2 ■ t 408.284.2B50 ■ f 408.284.2863 • hopesen,ices.org
prrte.cf crt most- r- nrs5tiiner- •:.paste recycled poper.
Address: 11400 SE 6th Street, Suite 220, Bellevue WA 98004 Phone: (425) 450 -2316 Email: dcree @savers.com
Family of Thrift Stares
TPG
EXHIBIT F
SAVERS PRESENTATION PACKAGE
Retail Portfolio Brands;
TVI, Inc. dba Savers Thrift Superstore
Appeal to City of Arcadia City Council
Page 12 of 28
J.CREW 9MMS petco "A
where the healthy pets go XNW
RITE
i 1 AID
M A R H E T
JO-ANN
fabric and craft stares
S0VM 1
Address: 11400 SE 6"' Street, Suite 220, Bellevue WA 98004 Phone: (425) 450 -2316 Email: dcree@savers.com
Family of Thrift Stares
TVI, Inc. dba Savers Thrift Superstore
Appeal to City of Arcadia City Council
Page 13 of 28
Address: 11400 SE 61' Street, Suite 220, Bellevue WA 98004 Phone: (425) 450 -2316 Email: dcree@savers.com
Family of Thrift Stares
Savers is a leading thrift retailer
with a national footprint in the
U.S. and Canada
TVI, Inc. dba Savers Thrift Superstore
Appeal to City of Arcadia City Council
Page 14 of 28
• Nationally recognized brands built over Savers' 59 year history
• Geographically diverse footprint
• Differentiated store model benefits broad network of nonprofit
organizations
SOMM YalueYillage
YillWNaleurs UNIQUE'
Address: 11400 SE 6"' Street, Suite 220, Bellevue WA 98004 Phone: (425) 450 -2316 Email: dcree@savers.com
Z"Vam
Family of Thrift Stores
TVI, Inc. dba Savers Thrift Superstore
Appeal to City of Arcadia City Council
Page 15 of 28
Address: 11400 SE 61' Street, Suite 220, Bellevue WA 98004 Phone: (425) 450 -2316 Email: dcree@savers.com
Family of Thrift Stares
Savers was founded on the principle of providing
communities with social benefits. For more than 60 years,
we've provided a platform to connect communities for a
common good through donated goods - building a bridge
between donors with surplus clothing and household
items with shoppers who can give those items a second
life.
We believe that goods repurposed within local
communities should benefit local communities, which is
why we choose to source the goods we sell in our stores
from local nonprofit organizations.
The social economics of our business and partnerships are
easy - the more a community donates and shops, the
more our community, our nonprofit partners and the
people they serve benefit.
TVI, Inc. dba Savers Thrift Superstore
Appeal to City of Arcadia City Council
Page 16 of 28
SUVM 5
Address: 11400 SE 6"' Street, Suite 220, Bellevue WA 98004 Phone: (425) 450 -2316 Email: dcree@savers.com
savers.
Family of Thrift Stores
TVI, Inc. dba Savers Thrift Superstore
Appeal to City of Arcadia City Council
Page 17 of 28
Mission
To deliver a superior thrift shopping experience through engagement of the
community, our nonprofit partners and team members with a foundation of
reuse and recycling for a better world.
Core Values
■ Embrace honesty, integrity and ethics in all aspects of our business.
• Recognize that our team members are the source of our success.
• Build enduring relationships and provide sustainable financial benefits to
our nonprofit partners and the communities they serve.
Offer our customers the best selection of resale goods.
SUVM 6
Address: 11400 SE 6"' Street, Suite 220, Bellevue WA 98004 Phone: (425) 450 -2316 Email: dcree@savers.com
Z"Vem
Family of Thrift Stares
■
_ local residents
donate reusable items
Ag"Ai'P, at Savers stores or
directly to their
nonprofit partners
e
Savers creates jobs
and helps support
locale communities
110
Savers pays
local nonprofits
every time you
donate
The Savers Cycle
We're in the business of -
i doing good
UnWd items are
recycled or sent to
developing Countries
rather than landfills
Iiiiiiiiiia Shoppeesfind 1111
r
unique items at a ANON NMI..'
greatvalue %AMARA"
r
Donations are sorted and
the highest quaftKoms
are value priced and
placed on the
sales Floor
TVI, Inc. dba Savers Thrift Superstore
Appeal to City of Arcadia City Council
Page 18 of 28
5an1111M 7
Address: 11400 SE 61' Street, Suite 220, Bellevue WA 98004 Phone: (425) 450 -2316 Email: dcree@savers.com
Family of Thrift Stares
• Fun, adventurous shopping experience
• Largest number of brands under one
roof
• Everyday items and one -of -a -kind
treasures at extraordinary value
I
1b a" s q
TVI, Inc. dba Savers Thrift Superstore
Appeal to City of Arcadia City Council
Page 19 of 28
t 41M
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Address: 11400 SE 6"' Street, Suite 220, Bellevue WA 98004 Phone: (425) 450 -2316 Email: dcree@savers.com
Family of Thrift Stares
F
100,000
items in
every store
59000 — 10,000
fresh items
added daily
TVI, Inc. dba Savers Thrift Superstore
Appeal to City of Arcadia City Council
Page 20 of 28
135
categories of
merchandise
Flf=.� rW
Address: 11400 SE 61' Street, Suite 220, Bellevue WA 98004 Phone: (425) 450 -2316 Email: dcree@savers.com
Family of Thrift Stares
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TVI, Inc. dba Savers Thrift Superstore
Appeal to City of Arcadia City Council
Page 21 of 28
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Address: 11400 SE 61' Street, Suite 220, Bellevue WA 98004 Phone: (425) 450 -2316 Email: dcree@savers.com
Family of Thrift Stares
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TVI, Inc. dba Savers Thrift Superstore
Appeal to City of Arcadia City Council
Page 22 of 28
X11
Address: 11400 SE 61' Street, Suite 220, Bellevue WA 98004 Phone: (425) 450 -2316 Email: dcree@savers.com
Family of Thrift Stares
TVI, Inc. dba Savers Thrift Superstore
Appeal to City of Arcadia City Council
Page 23 of 28
Md
scrim 17
Address: 11400 SE 61' Street, Suite 220, Bellevue WA 98004 Phone: (425) 450 -2316 Email: dcree@savers.com
Family of Thrift Stares
TVI, Inc. dba Savers Thrift Superstore
Appeal to City of Arcadia City Council
Page 24 of 28
7
IM13
Address: 11400 SE 61' Street, Suite 220, Bellevue WA 98004 Phone: (425) 450 -2316 Email: dcree@savers.com
Family of Thrift Stares
TVI, Inc. dba Savers Thrift Superstore
Appeal to City of Arcadia City Council
Page 25 of 28
Ken Alterman
President & CEO
10
34
Bob Hoglund
CFO
11
:A�
Mark Rodocker
COO
2
28
Karin Koonings
CM0
1
Tony Shumpert
VP, Supply Chain Operations
11
21
Randy Rothschiller
VP, Human Resources
7
Alan Raven
VP, Real Estate
3
34
Jon Evans
VP, Store Support
6
2
Thomas Ellison (Chairman), who has been with Savers for nearly 40 years , provides board
leadership and strategic continuity that helps maintain the company's heritage and
entrepreneurial spirit
SUVM 14
Address: 11400 SE 6"' Street, Suite 220, Bellevue WA 98004 Phone: (425) 450 -2316 Email: dcree@savers.com
Family of Thrift Stares
TVI, Inc. dba Savers Thrift Superstore
Appeal to City of Arcadia City Council
Page 26 of 28
Address: 11400 SE 61' Street, Suite 220, Bellevue WA 98004 Phone: (425) 450 -2316 Email: dcree@savers.com
Family of Thrift Stares
TVI, Inc. dba Savers Thrift Superstore
Appeal to City of Arcadia City Council
Page 27 of 28
4NNV M 1&
Address: 11400 SE 61' Street, Suite 220, Bellevue WA 98004 Phone: (425) 450 -2316 Email: dcree@savers.com
Z"Vam
Family of Thrift Stores
T ra
TVI, Inc. dba Savers Thrift Superstore
Appeal to City of Arcadia City Council
Page 28 of 28
Address: 11400 SE 61' Street, Suite 220, Bellevue WA 98004 Phone: (425) 450 -2316 Email: dcree@savers.com
June 6, 2013
Arcadia Planning Services
�i
JUN 10 2013
Nick Baldwin, Assistant Planner
240 W. Huntington Drive
Arcadia, CA 91007
Fax (626) 447 -9173
Re: Comments about applicant "Savers Thrift Superstore" conditional use permit
I am a resident at 5615 Santa Anita Ave, Unit A, Tierra Villa HOA, with a total of 9 homeowners here. My
husband, who is an engineer, and I, absolutely 100916 object; disapprove of the planning of Savers Thrift
Superstore at the old Ralphs location, which is directly across the street from our residence.
When my husband, who is HOA president also, read the letter of this proposed thrift store occupying
the old Ralphs store, he was appalled, upset and extremely disappointed with the city to even consider
this store near us, in this area. He finds this store, in his words, "UTTERLY USELESS OF A SPACE, A SLAP
iN THE FACE." I completely agree with him. Most of our homeowners are professional; engineers,
doctors, attorneys. They like high -end shopping NOT THRIFT store shopping.
We do not want or need "another" thrift store in this area. There is already a Goodwill thrift store
directly across the street from Ralphs, and another mom- and -pop thrift store around the corner on Live
Oak across from Citibank. There is NO need. Also, GoodWiil already drags in undesireable low- income
people to this affluent area. El Monte is just down a mile. We DO NOT NEED a third, mega thrift store,
attracting more rift raft near our residence.
I use to work in property management. I know the owners need to rent out soon or lose money,
but... considering just anybody without a care, doesn't say much about their business ethics. This store is
NOT a perfect fit by far ... maybe for El Monte. Hmm, try putting one in North Arcadia, near million dollar
homes, and see if they like it.
Instead,. we need another market, a Whole Foods, Fresh & Easy, Henry's or Sprouts would be a perfect
fit. Please seriously consider one of these. Thank you.
Please DENYany permit to Savers Thrift Superstore. Thank you for understanding this matter.
Cordially, local resident,
Mr. and Mrs. Avina
Jason'Kruckeberg
From:
scan Vonmayrhauser <stan. von mayrhauser@g mail.co m>
Sent:
Thursday, July 25, 2013 12:33 PM
To:
City Council Email
Cc:
Jason Kruckeberg; Pat Auriemmo
Subject:
SAVERS THRIFT STORE APPEAL FROM PLANNING COMMISSION DENIAL OF
CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT APPLICATION
Importance: High
Dear Arcadia City Council Members:
We write as Arcadia residents deeply concerned about the Savers Thrift Store conditional use permit application for the
lease of the building formerly occupied by Ralphs, at the corner of Live Oak and Santa Anita. We understand that Savers
Thrift Store has appealed to the City Council the Planning Commission's denial of its application. We request that the
City Council affirm the Planning Commission's denial of the Savers Thrift Store's conditional use permit application.
Our concerns about Savers Thrift Store's proposed use of the referenced property are based first and foremost on the
substantial threat which, we believe, this poses to the part of the City of Arcadia's Master Plan seeking to upgrade the
quality of the East Las Tunas /Live Oak Ave. retail corridor, especially the segment running between El Monte and
Second Avenue . Specifically, we believe that the nature of the merchandise to be sold in the Savers Thrift Store and the
lower income clientele attracted to such a store would be at odds with, and undermine, the City's effort to attract to
that corridor new retail establishments which are relatively more upscale and diverse than those which dominate this
corridor. In this way the proposed use would adversely affect the Master Plan.
Along a stretch which already has several thrift stores ( see next paragraph ), a tatoo parlor, several vacant buildings,
and a long- vacant lot, the addition of yet another low budget store would go a long way in cementing the identity of this
segment of the East Las Tunas /Live Oak corridor as "second class" retail corridor. This, we fear, will discourage future
investment by relatively more upscale retailers in a way antithetical to the City's long range development plans. In the
near term, a Savers Thrift Store takeover of the former Ralphs space could well hamstring efforts to fill the new nearby
Dukeland Plaza with retail establishments far better suited to the needs of Arcadia's residents.
Additionally, there is no need for yet another thrift store along this stretch. Several thrift stores already occupy this
segment of the corridor: the large Goodwill Store, the B & S Thrift Shop, a pawn shop, the City of Hope Thrift Shop, and
the Bargain Boy shop. People who patronize thrift stores are already well served by this group of stores along this
several block stretch.
Moreover, we believe that the substantial bulk of the people who patronize this group of thrift stores are not Arcadia
residents, but come from the city of El Monte and cities further south and west . Both the significantly higher per capita
income of Arcadia residents as compared with that of residents of El Monte and cities further south and west combined
with the location of the this thrift store group - -- -only blocks north of the Arcadia/El Monte border - - -- provides common
sense support for our view that these thrift stores do not predominantly serve the needs of Arcadia residents.
In sum, we believe that the addition of another thrift store in this area would undermine, and therby adversely
affect, the City of Arcadia's Master Plan goals for upgrading the East Las Tunas /Live Oak retail corridor. In addition, it is
not needed by the primary population which shops at the already more than adequate number of thrift stores in this
area. Finally, it is very unlikely that thrift stores of this type serve the needs of most Arcadia residents. For these
reasons, we strongly urge the City Council to affirm the Planning Commission's denial of the Savers Thrift Store's
conditonal use permit application and deny any and all future applications by any business entities to operate new thrift
stores in this corridor.
Respeefully,
Stanford and Barbara von Mayrhauser 183 W. Woodruff Ave., Arcadia, CA 91007
Excerot from 6 -11 -13 Planning Commission Meetina
3. on "onal Use PeMllt No. CUP 13-03
Architectural Design Review No. ADR 13 -05
Determination of a Class 1 Categorical ExemLbon
Applicant: Savers Thrift Superstore
16 E. Live Oak Avenue
The applicant is requesting a Conditional Use Permit and Architectural Design Review
approval with a Class 1 Categorical Exemption from the California Environmental Quality
Act (CEQA) to change the use and make minor exterior alterations of a 42,236 square foot
grocery store (Ralphs) to a thrift store (Savers Thrift Superstore).
Recommended actions: Approve Conditional Use Permit No. 13-03
Approve Architectural Design Review No. ADR 13-05
Find that the project is a Class 1 Exemption from CEQA
Assistant Planner, Nick Baldwin, presented the staff report.
Ching — Thank you very much. Any questions from the Commissioners.
Tony — Yes, Mr. Chairman, I have a question regarding Item No. 2. It seems to me
that the alley can be closed to through traffic but there's no limitation on the period of
time for which the alley can be dosed. Now that's a public alley, the public uses it
going back and forth to different streets so it seems to me that there should be some
limitation placed on the amount of time that the applicant would be able to block the
alley and do we have any conditions that we can place on the amount of blockage?
Nick — That alley actually terminates at this property. So it's not a requirement or — of
this property owner to keep it open. I believe with the existing Ralphs store It was In
their interest to keep this open. That's why they kept it open. So it's an option of - of
this new applicants t:o close it if they chose. Putting a time limit — or otherwise limiting
access is something we could discuss as a condition of approval.
Tony — I'd like to know from the City Engineer what type of conditions the City Engineer
would place on closure of a public alley.
Phil — Mr. Chairman and Commissioners thank you. Let me clarify. The public alley
doesn't continue through this property so there's really no public alley on their property.
It only comes up to the property and terminates. So In essence they're not blocking the
public alley, they`re blocking access to the alley. It would be like an access to a public
street. So, that's why when we looked at we decided there really are two options and
they really don't make a difference to us. If they chose to just close that completely
that's sufficient as far as we're concemed. Then they would need to provide some kind
of a permanent barrier at the alley where their access joins the alley. If they chose to
keep that open then we would expect that they keep that open and dear at all times
and not block it so that it appears that it's an access that's blocked. I hope that clarifies
it.
Tony — So the alley actually does not go all the way through to Santa Anita.
Phil — Correct. It terminates right there at the loading dock.
Tony — I see.
Phil — There's actually a — it appears on the map — there's a cul-de -sac bulb
that doesn't fallow the design of that parking lot adjacent to the building.
Tony — I note that on the tract map attached to the — that there is a cul-de -sac so the
alley Is not a true alley to Santa Anita.
Phil — Right — The alley terminates and then that would be just like an access point on
to the alley.
Tony — So with that in mind though, if the applicant wanted to close - and the way it's
worded it says "close the alley" so it gives the impression that It's going to be closed to
through traffic. So I'm a little bit concerned with that because I do know that there is
access — that people do utilize the alley and then go on to the Ralphs property out to
Santa Anita. That's used quite frequently. So, what kind of recommendations would
you make to the applicant?
Phil — That`s correct. It probably is used as a pass through from points east of the
center for people to get over to Santa Anita although that's really not the intended use
of their parking lot. So, uh — I don't know that it matters either way. We tend to not
like alleys dWre just more of a problem for maintenance and all but they do sere a
purpose as access to — and as you can see in this case all the businesses east of this
have their parking in the back and they really do need that alley. In a way, It does act
as an access connection for the whole block. So I think if I set aside the legalities of
people passing through the lot it does help to provide a circulation another alternative
or another option for folks trying to get back to the alley that would take traffic off of
Live Oak and Santa Anita I suppose. So keeping it open probably does serve a purpose
but it's really a more the property owners.
Tony — Could we impose an easement across the subject property for extension of the
alley to Santa Anita — and maybe that's a question for the City Attomey.
Phil - Let me just comment before — one of the things = the legalities I'm not sure — but
one of the things it would do is it would put a burden on us to maintain that. So it
would become a public access. As I said alleys are sometimes difficult to maintain and
and and pave and so on so It's an addition burden on us when we would probably look
to try to get rid of alleys but III defer to the City Attorney on this.
Steve — Well I believe you could Impose a condition to that effect if indeed the
requirement of the dedication of an easement is directly related to the proposal before
you and is caused by It and the obligation Is proportional. In other words, you're not
placing on this one applicant the full burden of doing something that others should
share in. So those two tests have to be made — direct effect and proportionality.
Tony — thank you
Sam — The subject property, does that Include lot 1, 2, 3,4 and 5?
Phil — Yes, that's correct.
Sam — Well then actually the alley - from the plans I've seen -- the alley is right at the
rear of the building — Isn't it?
Phil — It runs through the — I guess I would say the loading dock area. It's just south of
the building. So it doesn't go directly into the building. It goes just south of the
loading dock.
Sam — Thank you.
Ching — I have a quick question. What is determined to be the front of the
development as indicated on the staff report? Is it on Live Oak or is it Santa Anita?
Just so I'm dear.
Nick — Well the — we're discussing the front of the store — Its definitely the Santa Anita
— is the front.
Ching — Okay. And with regard to minimizing the curb cut I imagine the intention is to
prevent any slow down or obstruction to traffic on Santa Anita then. There was a
mention In the report that the design seeks to minimize or limit curb cuts or driveways
at the front of development. Maybe you can clarify. Maybe I misunderstood.
Jim — What you're looking at there is the description of the General Plan designation for
mixed uses. It Is part of the policy of the General Plan to minimize curb cuts and
driveways at the front of developments where rear or side egress options are available.
And in terms of a mixed use project we hope to generate pedestrian activity so we
would not want to see the front of a business or property occupied predominately by
driveways. That's the reason for that part of the policy. Here we're not dealing with a
mixed use project and we're dealing with actually an existing situation and clearly the
size of this retailer is not set up for predominately pedestrian activity.
Ching - So there wouldn't be a need for an additional curb cut for a driveway at this
project.
Jim - No they are utilizing the existing situation.
Ching - Thank you. And with regard to the undesirable activities associated with a
thrift store - other than the view corridor that provides visibility and the 24 hour
lighting and the trash bins what has the City typically done In similar cases with regard
to thrift stores - if anything?
Jim - We have several thrift stores in the city a number of which are in this particular
location. We have not had too much difficulty with the dumping of materials at the rear
or even the front of a thrift store. Most of them provide clear signage you know that
that's not an acceptable activity. If and when it does occur, except maybe on the
weekends, the material is readily gathered up by the thrift store. We typically, you
know, when It comes to dumping activity it is not limited to thrift stores. We do have
that situation occurring throughout the city and Code Services and Public Works are
quick to have it taken care of.
Ching - So the recommendations as provided by the city staff is typical of what Is -
strike that - it`s not just for thrift stores that we are imposing the 24 hour lighting and
the visibility and the trash compactor. That's generally what it Is for all retail of this
size?
Jim - When we can impose these kinds of requirements, yes. The areas trash
enclosures, rear access. We certainly want to make sure that they are adequately lit at
all times.
Ching - So there aren't typically additional - typical or additional requirements of thrift
stores of this type?
Jim - Not just for thrift stores. Large retailers tend to have their parking lots you know
lit but then they don't operate 24 hours a significant portion of the parking lot lights will
be turned off but in this case we want center to remain lit.
Ching - Thank you.
Bill - Mr. Baldwin, in describing the undesirable activities associated with thrift stores
and donation centers maybe we could look at an existing similar use. There's a
Goodwill Store about a block away. Do they have a donation center or drop facility at
that location.
Nick - I believe you can donate at that store. They're -- and` um - let's see
Jim — My experience with a Goodwill store is large items — customers are directed to go
to the rear loading dock and they will be assisted with their donations. If you had a few
bags of clothing you could certainly carry them into that store and they will process
your donation.
Bill — I guess I'm trying to figure out — do we have anything like apples to apples to
compare this with? Or is it a different type of ?
Jim — It appears to be a little bit different but we can't really compare apples to apples.
This is the first thrift store that is subject to a Conditional Use Permit. So we don't have
those kinds of discretionary conditions on the existing thrift stores.
Bill — I also have a question on the 24 hour lighting. Wouldn't that be — I think there's
some residents that back up to that lot — wouldn't that sort of be an annoyance to
them?
Jim — Well the lighting is required to essentially terminate at the property line. If we
had complaints we would go out and have that reviewed and if absolutely necessary we
have had the Police Department or Code Enforcement do light measurements to what
the effect is at the property line.
Ching — Given the nature of this type of business where there are occasions where
people will come and drop off items and given that there is a 43 parking space
deficiency at the property — is there any discussion about maybe having an area where
Ws a ten or fifteen minute parking space so that people can come drop off their item
and then leave so that It can mitigate some of the 43 space deficiency?
Jim — We see that there's a deficiency per code but our experience is that In keeping
with the current Ralphs grocery store the parking lot is rarely mostly full except maybe
during Thanksgiving and Christmas. We don't see the level of activity at this thrift store
to come anywhere near the level of Ralphs. So we don't see that there's really a
parking problem.
Ching — Would that Impose an additional burden if we were to ask for something of that
nature where they would have a like a drop off zone?
Jim — I don't think so but we could certainly ask the applicant if they would have any
- difficulties with that.
-° - Ching - -Thank you very much. The, Public Hearing is now open. Is there anyone who
would like to speak in favor of this item? Please sir if you would come up and sign In at
the podium.
Greg — My name's Greg Parsons. I'm a construction manager for Savers. And, just in
the conversation, there are a couple of Items that I wanted to address and the frst one
was the parking where that CDC, the donation center is, those are marked not with ten
minutes but they are clearly marked with "Donation Parking Only" so we hope people
come and drop off and then take their vehicles off those 3 or 4 parking spots. As far as
the light spillage off the property, we can easily shield those lights so they reflect
downward as opposed to spreading out. Also at the CDC area we have a recording
camera, a video camera that active 24/7. There was one more but I can't remember
what It was right now.
Tony — Yes sir, I think it was the issue of blocking the alley but of course we now know
Is not a through alley but I was wondering if you would be willing to try to make best
efforts to try to keep that area open because there's so many businesses along Live
Oak that depend upon the alley and access through what is the property.
Greg — While I can't make promises for the Corporation I can say that we're had
conversations about maintaining that open and we can control that by the depth of the
trailer that goes back there — Use 48, 531, 57 foot long trallers and once they back the
trailer In they can disconnect off the tractor and pull the tractor up and park It to the
side while they're loading or unloading that trailer. So, it would kind of mitigate
blocking that alley,
Tony — Thank you.
Bill — Mr. Parsons I don't know if you'd know the answer to this but is Savers a not for
profit corporation?
Greg — No we are for profit.
Bill — So that when people donate at the community donation center they don't get a
tax write-off?
Greg — They do get a tax write -off, they get a receipt. We give them a receipt, explain
how we take our donations from the non - profits in the community. We pay them for
those donations then we go through the product and sell what's sellable. We recycle
what's not sellable and that's what keeps our business alive. But we are definitely for
profit so that we pay city taxes.
Ching — Thank you very much Mr. Parsons. Is there anyone else who would like to
speak in favor of this item? Seeing none. Is there anyone who opposes this item?
Thank you very much. Is there a motion to close the public hearing.
MOTION
It was moved by Commissioner Falzone, seconded by Commissioner Beranek, to close the
Public Hearing. Without objection the motion was approved.
Ching — Any further discussions on this matter? What are your thoughts in terms of having the
lights shielded so that it mitigates some of the light pollution that would go into the back — the
residential properties abutting the property or do you feel that it is unnecessary?
Bill — Well, my thoughts are that it is kind of a gateway to, one of the gateways, to Arcadia and
I'm not thrilled about it becoming a thrift stone alley but I also know there's some residents that —
I'm not really in favor of this item but light is just, lighting is just part of it.
Ching — Right I too echo your sentiments about this so I understand. Is there any other opinion
or discussion on this matter? Okay. Is there a motion then?
Ed — I'll move to approve this project — Conditional Use Permit No. CUP 13-03 and Architectural
Design 13-05 and find that it meets the required findings on page 4 and that the staff finding that
this is a CEQA exempt project and direct staff to prepare a Resolution for adoption at the next
meeting that incorporates the Commission's decision, determinations, findings and conditions of
approval.
Ching — I'll second that Can we have roll call please,
Commissioner Baerg — No
Commissioner Beranek — Yes
Commissioner Falzon — No
Commissioner Parrille — Yes
Chairman Chiso — No
Ching — The motion is denied. A Resolution reflecting the decision of the Planning Commission
will be presented for adoption at the next Commission meeting. There will be a five working day
appeal period after the adoption of this Resolution.
Jim — Mr. Chairman i believe we have a motion that was to approve and that motion was not, do
we have an alternative to motion for denial of the proposal? We have a no vote on the motion
to approve. We don't have a motion to deny.
Bill — I'll make a motion to deny.
Sam — Second
Bill — I'll need to state one of the grounds of the motion. I'll move to deny the application based
on the fact that it did not satisfy Finding No. 1 on the staff report, on page 4 of the staff report.
Sam — Second
Ching — May we have roll call please?
Commissioner Baerg — Yes
Commissioner Beranek — No
Commissioner Falzone — Yes
Commissioner Panille — No
Chairman Chiao — Yes
Ching — The motion is now approved.
Jim — Denied
Ching — To be denied pursuant to Commissioner Baerg's motion and so a Resolution reflecting
this decision of the Planning Commission will be presented for adoption at the next Planning
Commission and again there's a five working day appeal period for the adoption of this
Resolution.
RESOLUTION NO. 1876
A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF
ARCADIA, CALIFORNIA, DENYING CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT
APPLICATION NO. CUP 13 -03 AND ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN
REVIEW NO. ADR 13 -05 TO CHANGE THE USE AND MAKE MINOR
EXTERIOR ALTERATIONS OF A 42,236 SQUARE FOOT GROCERY
STORE (RALPHS) TO A THRIFT STORE (SAVERS THRIFT
SUPERSTORE) AT 16 E. LIVE OAK AVENUE
WHEREAS, on March 11, 2013, applications were filed by Mr. Greg Parsons to
change the use and make minor exterior alterations of a 42,236 square -foot grocery
store (Ralphs) to a thrift store (Savers Thrift Superstore) at 16 E. Live Oak Avenue,
Development Services Department Case Nos. CUP 13 -03 and ADR 13 -05; and
WHEREAS, a public hearing was held by the Planning Commission on June 11,
2413 at which time all interested persons were given full opportunity to be heard and to
present evidence.
NOW, THEREFORE, THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF
ARCADIA RESOLVES AS FOLLOWS:
SECTION„ 1. That the factual data submitted by the Development Services
Department in the staff report dated June 11, 2013 are true and correct.
SECTION 2. That this Commission finds that the granting of such Conditional
Use Permit will 4e detrimental to the public health or welfare or injurious to the property
or improvements in such zone or vicinity, While there are four thrift stores within a
quarter -mile of the subject site, the location of the proposed thrift store is at a prominent
intersection at a gateway to the City of Arcadia, and having the undesirable activities of
scavenging and dumping of goods that typically occur at thrift stores at such a highly -
visible location would be detrimental to the public health and welfare, and injurious to
the other properties and businesses in the vicinity of the subject site.
SECTION 3. That for the foregoing reason this Commission denies Conditional
Use Permit Application No. CUP 13 -03 and Architectural Design Review No. ADR 13-05
to change the use and make minor exterior alterations of a 42,236 square -foot grocery
store (Ralphs) to a thrift store (Savers Thrift Superstore) at 16 E. Live Oak Avenue.
SECTION 4. The Secretary shall certify to the adoption of this Resolution.
Passed, approved and adopted this ,, 1, day of �. 2013.
ATTEST:
S ary
APPROVED AS TO FORM-
r
#e en P. D Wch
City Attorney
e
Chairman, Planning Commission
-2- 1 876
STATE OF CALIFORNIA }
COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES SS.
CITY OF ARCADIA y
i, Jim Kasama, Secretary of the Planning Commission of the City of Arcadia, hereby
certify that the foregoing Resolution No. 1875 was passed and. adopted by the Planning
Commission of the City of Arcadia, signed by the Chairperson and attested to by the
Secretary at a regular meeting of said Planning Commission held on the 25th day of June,
2013, and that said Resolution was adopted by the following vote, to wit:
AYES: Commissioners Beranek, Falzone, Parrille and Chrao
NOES: None
ABSENT. Commissioner Baerg
Secretafy of the Planning Commission