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HomeMy WebLinkAboutFebruary 20, 1996.:.~ ~S1TY gF,~~ ~ : ,~~~~~~ ~ ~- ~ E n~ ~ A ~ ~OC~ ~I ~ ~V , AR~AD~A, Arcadia City Council ;-:~~f~~~~ and ~°°~- °°' Redevelopment Agency ~Rl'OR=1~'[E~ ` Meeting February 20, 1996 Meeting 7:00 p.m. ACTION INVOCATION Bishop James Corrigan, Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE James Dale, Director, Administrative Services/ Finance ROLL CALL: Council Members Chang, Kuhn, Ulrich, Young and Lojeski :tayor Loieski Excused 1. PRESENTATIONS a. Administration of Oath of Office to new Recreation and Parks Commissioner, Steve Phillipi. b. Administration of Oath of Office to new Human Resources Commissioner, Gordon Penharlow. c. Michael McMahon, Director of Corp. Services, City of Newcastle, Australia 2. SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION FROM STAFF REGARDING City Mgr. Kelly re AGENDA ITEMS - REPORTSIANNOUNCEMENTSISTATEMENTS Newco Waste letter & clarification of City financial posi tion. MOTION: Read all Ordinances and Resolutions by title only and waive reading in full. naopcea a-o 3. PUBLIC HEARINGS a. Consideration of propased abatement of weeds, brush, rubbish, Aoproved a-o refuse and dirt upon and in front of certain private property within the City which constitute an existing or potential hazard to the health and safery of adjacent property owners. b. Report and recommendation for the consideration of a proposed Ap.~ro~.ea 3-0. Kuhn General Plan Amendment to change the General Plan designation from abstained "industrial" to "commercial" at the northwest comer of Huntington Dr. and Second Ave. c. Review and cansideration of 1996-97 Statement of Objectives and Approved a-o proposed utilization for the 22nd year CDBG funds. ~ ' ~ 4. TIME RESERVED FOR THOSE IN THE AUDIENCE WHO WISH TO xobert ellison ADDRESS THE CITY COUNCIL (NON-PUBLIC HEARING) -(FIVE rtilce Lamb MINUTE TIME LIMIT PER PERSON} M. Pappas ~reg Zuzow 5. MATTERS FROM ELECTED OFFICIALS City Council Reports/Announcements/Statements/Future Agenda Items see hinuces RECESS CITY COUNCIL 6. MEETING OF THE ARCADIA REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY ACTION ROLL CALL: Agency Members Chang, Kuhn, Ulrich, Young and Lojeski Chairman Loieski Excused a. Minutes of the February 6, 1996 adjourned and regular meetings. ~yr~„ea a-n RECESSREDEVELOPMENTAGENCY at 7:50 p.m. RECONVENE CITY COUNCIL 7. CONSENT ITEMS a. Minutes of the February 6, 1996 adjourned and regular meetings. apo=o~ea a-o ~b. Report and recommendation ta accept the donation of a Brink's Annrnvarl a-n • ( Truck for use by Police Department. c. Report and recommendation to approve the purchase of a 2 1/2 ~p~roved a-n ton dump truck with insulated bed from E.W. Truck Company for 546,040.49 for the Maintenance Services Department. d. Report and recommendation to apprave a$500.00 contribution a_",-,,..o,, ~_r, to Arcadia High Schaol's 1996 Constitution Team. e. ~ Report and recommendation to approve an agreement for Aoproved 3-1 ~,~ consulting services with R.W. Beck for a multi-city procurement Kuhn opposed process for salid waste collection services. f. Report and recommendatian to approve closing off South First a.,.,.~~~n Avenue between the alley south of Huntington Drive and Califomia Street on Friday, March 29. 1996 at 6:30 p.m. until Saturday, March 30, 1996, at 6:00 p.m. for the Downtown 2000 Grand Reopening celebration. 2 ~ V ~ ~ ACTION g. Report and recommendation to adopt Resolution No. 5905 Adooted 4-0 supporting the passage of Proposition 203, the State School Bond Measure, on the March 26, 1996 state primary election ballot. Resolution No. 5905 - A Resolution of the City Councii of the City of Arcadia, California, supporting proposition 203, the State School Bond. 8. CITY MANAGER a. Appointment to the Arcadia Beautiful Commission. Dorocn Denne appointed -0 b. Report and recommendation to approve a themed interactive nen+ed ~-i entertainment facility as an appropriate use in the CPD-1 zone, an Chang in favor of area bounded by the 210 Freeway on the north, Fifth Avenue on the Project east, the railroad tracks to the south, and Second Avenue to the west with a conditional use permit. 9. CITY ATTORNEY a. Ordinance No. 2045 - AOOPTION - An Ordinance of the Adonted a-o City Council of Arcadia, California, amending the Arcadia Municipat Code by adding Division 10 to Part 6, Chapter 2, of Article IX pertaining to incidental outdoor dining areas in conjunction with primary restaurant or eating establishment uses on privately owned commercial or industrial zoned properties. b. Ordinance No. 2044 - ADOPTION - An Ordinance of the City Adopted a-n Councii of the City of Arcadia, California, amending portions of Part 3 of Chapter 1 of Article V of the Arcadia Municipal Code related to the collection of recyclable material from commercial and industrial business propeRies. 10. CLOSED SESSION - Reconvene Arcadia Redevelopment Age~cy 8:18 p.m. a. Pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.8 to confer with City negotiators William Kelly and Peter Kinnahan regarding potential disposition of real property via negotiations with Emkay Development Company (R. Smith) and Gateway Associates (L. Mielke) applicable to 401-499 E. Santa Clara Street, Arcadia. ADJOURN City Council and Redevelopment Agency to 5:30 p.m., February 29, 1996 ADJOURNED AT 8:30 p.m. 3 d5 3D - , . � • :� 410 /47, b -/, -- • i"111111 °4ORAT$O• STAFF REPORT DEVELOPMENT SERVICES DEP'1 TMENT February 20, 1996 TO: Mayor and City Council FROM: Donna L. Butler, Community Development Administrator I 4111/ By: John D. Halminski, Assistant Planner SUBJECT: Public Hearing-- 1996-1997 Statement of Objectives and Project se of 22nd Year CDBG Funds SUMMARY The Community Development Commission (CDC) has advised staff that the City will receive approximately $412,000 in Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) F ds for fiscal year 1996-97. Cost and project summaries must be submitted to the County no ater than March 1, 1996. The total available funds to the city will be $412,527. DISCUSSION Any one of the following criteria is required for a project to qualify for Comm nity Development Block Grant Funds: (1) a project must benefit low and moderate income families, (2) aid in the prevention or elimination of slum and blight and/or (3) ha e a particular urgency because existing conditions pose a serious threat to the health or welfare of the community where other financial resources are not available to meet such needs. Federal regulations require that no less than 70% of a grantee's aggregate funds $412,527 are to be used to support activities that benefit persons of low and moderated income; resulting in a minimum of$288,768 to be spent for low/mod activities. The following is a summary of the proposed projects and use of funds recommended by the Development Services Department for fiscal.year 1996-97: Housing Rehabilitation $345,527 Congregate Meals Program $20,000 Senior Citizens Social Services $22,000 Administration $25,000 1996-97 CDBG Funds LAScR PIPED February 20. 1996 RECOMMENDED PROGRAMS - 1996-97 (22ND YEAR) Due to the success of the fiscal year 1995-96 programs, staff has selected to continue the progams into fiscal year 1996-97. Staff is recommending the following programs in fiscal year 1996-97: Housing Rehabilitation Project- 345,527 This is an ongoing program and as in previous years, the City will continue to offer a maximum grant of $10,000 to low/moderate income homeowners for necessary h me improvements. Eligible improvements include exterior work including painting, roofing and sid'ng; repairs, restoration or replacement of important parts of structures such as heating, plumbing, electrical, etc.; other improvements to correct code violations as authorized and interior work to make structures more livable, including, painting, plastering, ew flooring and tile work. In addition, home improvement funds may be utilized for ext rior yard maintenance including tree trimming or removal, if it is determined that said tree created an unsafe condition. It is estimated that approximately 30 households will be assisted (this includes the estimated cost for administering the program of $1,000 per household). Congregate Meals Programs - $20,000 This is an ongoing program. The Congregate Meals Program provides senior citizens with a nutrition program that features hot noonday meals, Monday through Friday aithe Arcadia Community Center. The City will continue to contract with the school di tract and CDBG funding will be utilized to subsidize the cost of the meal. It is estimated�that 50 to 70 senior citizens would participate daily, resulting in 12,500 to 17,500 meals served annually. This program is administered by the Recreation Department's S Inior Citizen's Division. Information and Referral Services - $22,000 This is an ongoing program. The program provides senior citizens with esse tial information to maintain independent living and healthy lifestyles. Assistance and information services provided include: government benefits assistance (Medicare, social security, income tax, mei-cal, S SI), housing, transportation, egal assistance, in-home services, health services and educational opportunities. The n ber of unduplicated persons to be assisted is projected to be approximately 5,000. The majority of participants are over the age of 65. This program is administered by the Recreation Department's Senior Citizen's Division. 1996-97 CDBG Funds February 20, 1996 3 A'I-IACIIMI•:NT III Community Development Block Grant 1996-97 Cost Sununary Grant Number 13-96-UC-06-0505 I (3) 1'996-97 YEAR ALLOCATION $ 412,527 (12)ADDRESS: (13) 42,000 HINDS AVAILABLE FOR I'1111I.IC SERVICES 2/8/96 (1)DATE PRIOR YEARS'FUNDS $ 0 93 % IAM NATIONAL EVE 10. 1 % OF HINDS ALLOCATED 10 PUBLIC SERVICES SECTION 108 LOANS $ 0 % S/B NATIONAL OBJECTIVE (14) 6 % OF FUNDS ALLOCATED TO PLANNING ANI) Arcadia ADMINISTRATION (2)CITY TOTAL PROGRAM $ 412,527 (I S) IS YOUR CITY Sl11SJ1iC'1"1'0 SECTION 3 REQUIREMENTS'? NO RESOURCES Project I IUD 1-IUD Title,Project Title and Description Eligibility& Funding Proposed Location Proposed Number Activity (6) National Sources Amount (10) Accomplishments . (4) Code Objective (8) (II) (5) Citations (7.) D96616 05 PUBLIC SERVICE 201(e) (1)/ CD13G 20,000 Arcadia Provides a nutritious 208(a) Community meal to senior citizens Congregate Meals for Senior I-IONIE Center on a daily basis, except Citizens. (2) (>) (A) 365 Campus Saturdays and Sundays. • I.SG Drive There will be up to 70 This program provides senior IIOPWA Census seniors served per day. citizens with a nutritious Tract meal for lunch Monday CPD TOTAL. 4307.21 through Friday at the Arcadia Community Center. PHA IA GRANT CDBG funds will be utilized ASST''1) I ISNG to contract with the School - District to provide the hot TOTAL 20,000 meals. It is estimated 50 FUNDING ill to 70 seniors will participate daily, resulting Prior year money? in 12,500 to 17,000 meals Yes or Isky served annually. This Other Funds? program is administered Source Amount by the Recreation Department's Senior Citizen Division. (9) Section 3 Covered Project Yes X No (Check one) )6-97cos.stun CI l: 10/6/95 Page of _., ATTACHMENT III ,. ' Community Development Block Grant ` 1996-97 Cost Summary - Grant Number B-96-UC-06-0505 2/8/96 (3) 1996-97 YEAR ALLOCATION $ 41 2,527 (12)ADDRESS: (13) $ 42,000 FUNDS AVAILABLE FOR Pt1IBLIC SERVICES (I)DATE PRIOR YEARS'FUNDS $ 0 93 % UM NATIONAL OBJECTIVE 10. 1% OF FUNDS ALLOCATED T()PUBLIC SERVICES SECTION 108 LOANS $ 0 % S/B NATIONAL OBJECTIVE (14) 6 % 01' FUNDS ALLOCATED TO PLANNING AND Arcadia ADMINISTRATION (2)CITY TOTAL PROGRAM $ 412,527 RESOURCES (15) IS YOUR CITY SUBJECT TO SECTION 3 REQUIREMENTS? NO Project HUD HUD Title,Project Title and Description Eligibility& Funding Proposed Location Proposed Number Activity (6) National Sources Amount (10) Accomplishments (4) Code Objective (8) (1 I) 1 (5) Citations (7) — D96618 14A REHABILITATION 202(a) (1) CDi3G 345,527 Citywide Provide 31 grants of up (b ) (2) (4) to $10,000 to low and Housing Rehabilitation (5) (a) HOME moderate income owner 208(a) (3) I:SG occupants. Provides 31 grants of up to $10,000 to low and moderate 1-IOPWA income homeowners for - eligible improvements CPD TOTAL including exterior and interior work, including but P1-IA GRANT • not limited to painting, ASST'D I ISNG roofing, and siding, repairs, restoration or replacement TOTAL 345,527 of important parts of FUNDING III . structures such as heating, plumbing, and electrical; Prior year money? other improvements to Yes or iiX correct code violations as authorized and interior Other Funds? work to make structures Source Amount more livable. CDBG funds will be used for contractor (9) Section 3 Covered Project ---s-e-r-v e-e-s—a-nd a—con-stilt a-n-t to administer/monitor the _ Yes X No program. (Check one) 96-97cos.sum CDBG funds also include office CI I: 10/6/95 materials in order to ad- Page of minister the program. •P o 573 i 2-c.). -1 �•, G_ 9!� -av • STAFF REPORT DEVEbliiPMENT SERVICES DEPARTMENT February 20, 1996 TO: Mayor and City Council ,1 /7 2 FROM: Donna L. Butler, Community Development Administrator SUBJECT: Consideration of Proposed General Plan Amendment 96-001 at the Northwest Corner of Huntington Drive and Second Avenue SUMMARY This General Plan change was initiated by the City to amend the current General Plan designation from "Industrial" to "Commercial" for the Redevelopment Agency owned property located at the northwest corner of Second Avenue and Huntington Drive (see the attached map). The Planning Commission at its January 23 meeting unanimously voted in favor :o recommend approval of the proposed General Plan Amendment. DISCUSSION • The site contains approximately 174,000 sq. ft. (4 acres). The property has frontage on two streets; Second Avenue and Santa Clara Street and is visible from both the freeway and Huntington Drive. The Redevelopment Agency began purchase of the properties in 1989 and had purchased all properties by 1991. The site has been on the market for the past seven (7) years. Because of the size of the property (approximately 4 acres), the location adjacent to Huntington Drive, and the fact that the uses on the properties to the east are commercial, it has been primarily marketed for commercial uses and/or multiple-family housing even though the zoning and general plan designation are industrial. Recently, the Marriott Lodging Development Company has expressed interest in developing a three-story, 153 room Courtyard by Marriott Hotel on three of the four acres. Hotels are.permitted only in the CPD-1 and C-2 or any less restrictive commercial zone with an approved conditional use permit. zdta-GP961cc GP 96-001 February 20, 1996 Pagel Lrt,a)Li% i' r e 6.1 In order to allow a hotel or any other commercial use on the site, the general plan designation and the zoning classification must be changed. The proposed "Commercial" designation is consistent with the designation being proosed in the General Plan Update currently being prepared by the City. The "Commercial" designation will allow more alternatives in establishing a zoning designation for the site (i.e., C-O, C-1, C-2 or C-M) and provides more flexibility in the types of uses permitted. If this General Plan change is adopted, a zone change will be initiated at a later date. ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS Pursuant to the provisions of the California Environmental Quality Act, the Development Services Department has prepared an initial study for the proposed project. Said initial study did not disclose any substantial or potentially substantial adverse change in any of the physical conditions within the area affected by the project including land, air, water, minerals, flora, fauna, ambient noise and objects of historical or aesthetic significance. When considering the record as a whole, there is no evidence that the proposed project will have any potential for adverse effect on wildlife resources or the habitat upon which the wildlife depends. Therefore, a Negative Declaration has been prepared for this project. FISCAL IMPACTS There will be no negative fiscal impacts as a result of this General Plan Change. RECOMMENDATION The Development Services Department recommends that the General Plan designation for the subject site be "Commercial". FINDINGS AND MOTION If the City Council intends to approve this General Plan Amendment, the Council should move to direct staff to prepare the appropriate resolution for adoption at a later meeting. Attachments: • (1) Minutes of the January 23 Planning Commission meeting (2) Map of Subject Area (3) Environmental Documents APPROVED: William R. Kelly, City Manager zc/ta-GP961ca GP 96-001 February 20, 1996 Page 2 4. PUBLIC HEARING GP 96-001 Northwest corner of Huntington Dr. and Second Ave. Consideration of a proposed General Plan Amendment to change the isieral Plan designation from "Ind striae' to "Commercial". The staff report was presented. Ms. Butler said the C-2 zoning permits residential uses in the commercial zone with an approved conditional use permit. Condominiums would not be permitted there because State law requires that condominium projects be consistent with the General Plan but for rental housing, it would be permitted. The Redevelopment Agency anticipates that the remaining one acre would be marketed for commercial uses. The public hearing was opened. No one spoke in favor or in opposition to this item. MOTION It was moved by Commissioner Murphy, seconded by Commissioner Kalemkiarian to close the public hearing. The motion passed by voice vote with none dissenting. MOTION It was moved by Commissioner Murphy, seconded by Commissioner Kalemkiarian to recommend approval of GP 96- 001 to the City Council. ROLL CALL: AYES: Commissioners Bell, Huang,Kalemkiarian,Kovacic,Murphy,Daggett NOES: None ABSENT: Commissioner Sleeter • Arcadia City Planning Commission Page 6 1/23/96 , ,„_, c X • Rr ' 'A " : , 1 : , M-1 , CPD-1 1 ; 1 SANTA CLARA STREET V/////7 La M-1 o C-2 ---s-::- c CPD-1 WHEELER AVENUE H7 7 Q J I I C-2 / ) r 1 HUNT I NGTON DR IVE C- 1 ' Z ; Q , J � C-2 PR-3; , C-2 _ ;- ; ; ;moo ALTA STREET (,) , iiiiiiiiiii.. 174 ,240 Square Feet RTH (4 _0 Acres) Scale - 1":210 ' 12/4/95 ,, File No.: G.P. •6-001 • • CITY OF ARCADIA _ � h 240 WEST HUNTINGTON DRIVE et. °`-'��li���� t" ARCADIA, CA 91007 axcan�, � O4pORATE9' CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT NEGATIVE DECLARATION A. Title and Description of Project: General Plan Amendment 96-001 to change the General Plan designation from "Indust ial" to "Commercial" B. Location of Project: Northwest corner of Second Avenue and Huntington Drive C. Name of Applicant or Sponsor: City of Arcadia D. Finding: This project will have no significant effect upon the environment within the meaning of the California Environmental Quality Act of 1970 for the reasons set forth in the attached Initial Study. E. Mitigation measures, if any, included in the project to avoid potentially significant effects: None-see attached checklist_ // Date: 12/20/95 %///_ • / - - L Date Posted: C. uni Development Administrator. n File No G.P. 96-001 i 14 t44 • - •„READ : CITY OF ARCADIA Ilk\JM 40," 240 WEST HUNTINGTON DRIVE °°RPOasz$o. ARCADIA, CA 91007 ENVIRONMENTAL CHECKLIST FORM 1. Project Title: GP 96-001 2. Project Address: The northwest corner of Huntington Drive and Second Avenue 3. Project Sponsor's Name, Address and Telephone Number: City of Arcadia 240 West Huntington Drive Arcadia, CA 91007 (818) 574-5442 4. Lead Agency Name and Address: City of Arcadia 240 W. Huntington Dr. Arcadia, CA 91007 5. Contact Person and Phone Number: Donna L. Butler (818) 574-5442 6. General Plan Designation: Currently "Industrial" 7. Zone Classification: M-1 Planned Industrial District 8. Description of Project: (Describe the whole actiovolved, including but not limited to later phases of the project and any secondary, support, or off-site features necessary for its implementation. Attach additional sheets if necessary.) Proposed General Plan amendment tochange the General Plan designation from "Industrial" to "Commercial" 9. Other public agencies whose approval is required. (e.g., permits, financing approval, or participation agreement.) None ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS POTENTIALLY AFFECTED: The environmental factors checked below would be potentially affected by this project, involving at least one impact that is a "Potentially Significant Impact" as indicated by the checklist on the following pages. ❑ Land Use & Planning ❑ Transportation/Circulation ❑ Public Services ❑ Population & Housing ❑ Biological Resources ❑ Utilities & Service Systems ❑ Geological Problems ❑ Energy & Mineral Resources ❑ Aesthetics ❑ Water ❑ Hazards ❑ Cultural Resources ❑ Air Quality ❑ Noise ❑ Recreation ❑ Mandatory Findings of Signficance • E.I.R. Checklist 7/95 -2- DETERMINATION (To be completed by the Lead Agency.) On the basis of this initial evaluation: I find that the proposed project COULD NOT have a significant effect on the environment, and a NEGATIVE DECLARATION will be prepared. I find that although the proposed project could have a significant effect on the environment, there will not be a significant effect in this case because the mitigation measures described on an attached sheet have been added to the project. A NEGATIVE DECLARATION will be prepared. ❑ I find that the proposed project MAY have a significant effect on the environment, and an ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT is required. ❑ I find that the proposed project MAY have a significant effect(s) on the environment, but at least one effect (1) has been adequately analyzed in an earlier document pursuant to applicable legal standards, and (2) has been addressed by mitigation measures based on the earlier analysis as described on attached sheets, if the effect is a "potentially significant impact" or"potentially significant unless mitigated." mitigated." An ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT is required, but it must analyze only the effects that remain to be addressed. ❑ I find that although the proposed project could have a significant effect on the environment, there WILL NOT be a significant effect in this case because all potentially significant effects (a) have been analyzed adequately in an earlier EIR pursuant to applicable standards and (b) have been avoided or mitigated pursuant to that earlier EIR, including revisions or mitigation measures that are imposed upon the proposeroject. ❑ 1 . >/ == . /���/ December 20. 1995 Signature Date Donna L. Butler City of Arcadia Printed Name For E.I.R. Checklist 7/95 -3- Potentially nificant Potentially nless Less Than Significant Mitigation Significant No Impact Incorporated Impact Impact Would the proposal result in potential impacts involving: VIP 1. LAND USE AND PLANNING. Would the proposal: a) Conflict with general plan designation ❑ ❑ ❑ or zoning? The proposal is for a General Plan amendment to change the current designation of industrial to commercial, consistent with the properties to the east along Huntington Drive b) Conflict with applicable environmental ❑ ❑ ❑ plans or policies adopted by agencies with jurisdiction over the project? The proposed change is consistent with the overall Redevelopment Plan for this area. • c) Be compatible with existing land use in ❑ ❑ ❑ the vicinity? Properties to the east along Huntington Drive have a general plan designation of Planned Development and are zoned CPD-1 (Commercial Planned Development) d) Affect agricultural resources or operations ❑ ❑ ❑ (e.g. impacts to soils or farmlands, or impacts from incompatible land uses? There are no agricultural resources in the area. e) Disrupt or divide the physical arrangement ❑ ❑ ❑ of an established community (including a low-income or minority community)? There will be no disruption to the physical arrangement of the community. 2. POPULATION AND HOUSING. a) Cumulatively exceed official regional or ❑ ❑ ❑ �. local population projections? The proposed commercial designation will not impact population projections. �,/ b) Induce substantial growth in an area either ❑ ❑ ❑ 12" directly or indirectly (e.g. through projects in an undeveloped area or extension of major infrastructure)? ( ) There will not be any substantial population growth as a result of the commercial GP designation c) Displace existing housing, especially ❑ ❑ ❑ 4a' affordable housing? ( ) The site is vacant. 3. GEOLOGIC PROBLEMS. Would the proposal result in or expose people to ❑ ❑ _ ❑ ❑ potential impacts involving: • GP 96-001 --E.I.R. Checklist 7/95 -1- Potentially - Signific -`,, Potentially Unle Less Than Significant Mitigation Significant No Impact Incorporated Impact Impact a) Fault rupture? ( ) ❑ ❑ ❑ UV No, there are no fault lines in this area. b) Seismic ground shaking? ( ) ❑ ❑ ❑ 4/ A change in the General Plan designation will not affect seismic ground shaking. c) Seismic ground failure, including ❑ ❑ ❑ 5( liquefaction? ( ) A change in the General Plan designation will not affect ground failure, etc.. d) Landslides or mudflows? ( ) ❑ ❑ ❑ g/ A change in the General Plan designation will not create landslides or mudflows. / e) Erosion, changes in topography or unstable ❑ CI I soil conditions from excavation, grading, or fill? ( ) A change in the General Plan designation will not affect existing topography, etc. f) Subsidence of the land? ( ) ❑ ❑ ❑ A change in the General Plan designation will not cause subsidence. g) Expansive soils? ( ) ❑ ❑ ❑ GiV A change in the General Plan designation will not impact the existing property. h) Unique geologic or physical features? ( ) CI ❑ ❑ V The property is vacant and is a flat piece of property with no unique geologic or physical features. 4. WATER Would the proposal result in: a) Changes in absorption rates, drainage patterns ❑ ❑ ❑ i3 or the rate and amount of surface runoff? ( ) Future development of the site under the current or proposed GP designation could impact absorption rates or amount of surface runoff, however, the change in the GP designation will not have a direct impact. • i. b) Exposure of people or property to water related ❑ ❑ ❑ 19' hazards such as flooding? ( ) The change in the GP designation will not have any direct impact on the property. �, / c) Discharge into surface waters or other alteration ❑ ❑ ❑ ',Y of surface water quality (e.g. temperature, dissolved oxygen or turbidity)? ( ) The change in the GP designation will not have any direct impact on the property. d) Changes in the amount of surface water in any ❑ ❑ ❑ 4/ water body? ( ) The change in the GP designation will not have any direct impact on the property. e) Changes in currents, or the course or direction ❑ ❑ ❑ of water movements? ( ) The change in the GP designation will not have any direct impact on the property. GP 96-001 — E.I.R. Checklist 7/95 -2- Potentially -. nificant . Potentially nless Less Than Significant Mitigation Significant No Impact Incorporated Impact Impact f) Change in the quantity of ground waters, either ❑ AO ❑ ❑ through direct additions or withdrawals, or through interception of any aquifer by cuts or excavations or through substantial loss of ground water recharge capability? ( ) The change in the GP designation will not have any direct impact on the property. / g) Altered direction or rate of flow of ❑ ❑ ❑ W ground water? ( ) The change in the GP designation will not have any direct impact on the property. h) Impacts to ground water quality? ( ) ❑ ❑ ❑ W The change in the GP designation will not have any direct impact on the property. i) Substantial reduction in the amount of ❑ ❑ ❑ ground water otherwise available for public water supplies? ( ) The change in the GP designation will not have any direct impact on the property. 5. AIR QUALITY. Would the proposal: a) Violate any air quality standard or contribute ❑ ❑ ❑ g/ to an existing or projected air quality violation? ( ) The change in the GP designation will not have any direct impact on the property or the environment b) Expose sensitive receptors to pollutants? ( ) LI ❑ ❑ The change in the GP designation will not have any direct impact on the property or the environment c) Alter air movement, moisture, or temperature ❑ ❑ ❑ LI or cause any change in climate? ( ) The change in the GP designation will not have any direct impact on the property or the environment d) Create objectionable odors? ( ) ❑ ❑ ❑ Z The change in the GP designation will not have any direct impact on the property or the environment 6. TRANSPORTATION/CIRCULATION Would the proposal result in: a) Increased vehicle trips or traffic congestion? ( ) ❑ LI ❑ I" The change in the GP designation will not have any direct impact on the property or the environment b) Hazards to safety from design features (e.g. ❑ ❑ ❑ 4Y sharp curves or dangerous intersections) or incompatible uses (e.g. farm equipment)? ( ) The change in the GP designation will not have any direct impact on the property or the environment c) Inadequate emergency access or access to ❑ ❑ U W nearby uses? ( ) The change in the GP designation will not have any direct impact on the property or the environment GP 96-001 -- E.I.R. Checklist 7/95 -3- Potentially Signific - Potentially Unle- . Less Than Significant Mitigation Significant No Impact Incorporated Impact Impact • d) Insufficient parking capacity on-site or ❑ MP ❑ ❑ off-site? ( ) The change in the GP designation will not have any direct impact on the property or the environment e) Hazards or barriers for pedestrians or ❑ ❑ ❑ UV- bicyclists? ( ) The change in the GP designation will not have any direct impact on the property or the environment f) Conflicts with adopted policies supporting ❑ LI ❑ tliK alternative transportation (e.g. bus turnouts, bicycle racks)? ( ) • The change in the GP designation will not have any direct impact on the property or the environment g) Rail, waterborne or air traffic impacts? ( ) ❑ ❑ ❑ lr The change in the GP designation will not have any direct impact on the property or the environment 7. BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES Would the proposal result in impacts to: a) Endangered, threatened or rare species or their ❑ ❑ ❑ habitats (including but not limited to plants, fish, insects, animals and birds)? ( ) The site is currently vacant and there are no endangered species existing. b) Locally designated species (e.g. heritage ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ trees)? ( ) There is an oak tree on the site which is subject to the City's oak tree preservation ordinance. c) Locally designated natural communities ❑ ❑ ❑ (e.g. oak forest, coastal habitat, etc.)? ( ) There is an oak tree on the site which is subject to the City's oak tree preservation ordinance. d) Wetland habitat(e.g. marsh, riparian and ❑ ❑ ❑ Er vernal pool)? ( ) The site is not in a wetland habitat e) Wildlife dispersal or migration corridors? ( ) ❑ ❑ ❑ The site is vacant and in a developed area of the City. 8. ENERGY AND MINERAL RESOURCES Would the proposal: a) Conflict with adopted energy conservation ❑ ❑ ❑ plans? ( ) Any future development of the site would have to comply with the energy regulations of the City. b) Use non-renewable resources in a wasteful 0 ❑ ❑ I and inefficient manner? ( ) The GP change will not impact natural resources. GP 96-001 — E.I.R. Checklist 7/95 -4- Potentially - °: nificant Potentially (, :Unless Less Than Significant Mitigation Significant No Impact Incorporated Impact Impact c) Result in the loss of availability of a known ❑ ❑ ❑ lY mineral resource that would be of future value to the region and the residents of the State? ( ) The site is not in a mineral resource area but is in the middle of a developed portion of the City. 9. HAZARDS Would the proposal involve: a) A risk of accidental explosion or release of ❑ ❑ ❑ V hazardous substances (including, but not limited to: oil, pesticides, chemicals or radiation)? ( ) The change in the GP designation will not result in any potential hazards. In fact a change from an industrial designation to commercial designation may result in less impacts in the future. b) Possible interference with an emergency ❑ ❑ ❑ response plan or emergency evacuation plan? ( ) The GP change will not impact the emergency response plan c) The creation of any health hazard or • ❑ ❑ , ❑ potential health hazard? ( ) The GP change itself will not result in any health hazard. d) Exposure of people to existing sources of ❑ ❑ ❑ potential health hazards? ( ) The GP change itself will not result in any health hazard. e) Increased fire hazard in areas with flammable ❑ ❑ ❑ 12/ brush, grass, or trees? ( ) The site is completely vacant. 10. NOISE Would the proposal result in: a) Increases in existing noise levels? ( ) ❑ ❑ ❑ R/' A change in the GP designation will not result in increased noise levels, however, ultimate development of a vacant site may have short term impacts. b) Exposure of people to severe noise levels? ( ) ❑ ❑ ❑ • A change in the GP designation will not result in increased noise levels, in fact a commercial designation should allow uses which will have less impacts to the noise levels than industrial uses. 11. PUBLIC SERVICES Would the proposal have an effect upon, or result in a need for new or altered government services in any of the following areas: a) Fire protection? ( ) ❑ ❑ ❑ The change in the General Plan designation will not impact public services. b) Police protection? ( ) ❑ ❑ ❑ The change in the General Plan designation will not impact public services. GP 96-001 — E.I.R. Checklist 7/95 -5- Potentially . - , Signifii-,-` • Potentially Unle Less Than Significant Mitigation Significant No Impact Incorporated Impact Impact c) Schools? ( ) ❑ MO ❑ ❑ V The change in the General Plan designation will not impact public services. d) Maintenance of public facilities, including ❑ ❑ ❑ P' roads? ( ) The change in the General Plan designation will not impact public services. e) Other governmental services? ( ) ❑ ❑ ❑ The change in the General Plan designation will not impact public services. 12. UTILITIES AND SERVICE SYSTEMS Would the proposal result in a need for new systems or supplies, or substantial alterations to the following utilities: a) Power or natural gas? ( ) ❑ ❑ ❑ The change in the General Plan designation will not impact utilities or other service systems. This would be evaluated at the time of development. b) Communications systems? ( ) ❑ ❑ ❑ b✓ The change in the General Plan designation will not impact utilities or other service systems. This would be evaluated at the time of development. -, / c) Local or regional water treatment or L3 ❑ b� distribution facilities? ( ) The change in the General Plan designation will not impact utilities or other service systems. This would be evaluated at the time of development. d) Sewer or septic tanks? ( ) ❑ ❑ ❑ O' The change in the General Plan designation will not impact utilities or other service systems. This would be evaluated at the time of development. e) Storm water drainage? ( ) ❑ ❑ ❑ 01., The change in the General Plan designation will not impact utilities or other service systems. This would be evaluated at the time of development. f) Solid waste disposal? ( ) ❑ ❑ ❑ l The change in the General Plan designation will not impact utilities or other service systems. This would be evaluated at the time of development. g) Local or regional water supplies? ( ) ❑ ❑ ❑ The change in the General Plan designation will not impact utilities or other service systems. This would be evaluated at the time of development. 13. AESTHETICS Would the proposal: a) Affect a scenic vista or scenic highway? ( ) ❑ ❑ ❑ ILI- The change in the General Plan designation will not impact the aesthetics of the City; however, this would be evaluated at the time of development. GP 96-001 — E.I.R. Checklist 7/95 -6- Potentially inificant Potentially .‘lnless Less Than Significant Mitigation Significant No Impact Incorporated Impact Impact b) Have a demonstrable negative aesthetics ❑ ❑ ❑ f effect? ( ) MD The change in the General Plan designation will not impact the aesthetics of the City; however, this would be evaluated at the time of development. c) Create light or glare? ( ) ❑ ❑ ❑ The change in the General Plan designation will not create new light or glare; however, this would be evaluated at the time of development. 14. CULTURAL RESOURCES Would the proposal: a) Disturb paleontological resources? ( ) ❑ ❑ ❑ G✓ The change in the General Plan designation will not cultural resources; however, this would be evaluated at the time of development. b) Disturb archaeological resources? ( ) ❑ ❑ ❑ O' The change in the General Plan designation will not cultural resources; however, this would be evaluated at the time of development. c) Affect historical resources? ( ) ❑ ❑ ❑ W The site is vacant, therefore, the new GP designation would not affect historical resources. d) Have the potential to cause a physical change ❑ ❑ ❑ L/ which would affect unique ethnic cultural values? ( ) The proposed GP change will not create a physical change to the site. e) Restrict existing religious or sacred uses ❑ ❑ ❑ `r'/ within the potential impact area? ( ) The proposed GP change will not restrict or affwect existing religious or sacred uses in the area. 15. RECREATION Would the proposal: a) Increase the demand for neighborhood or ❑ ❑ ❑ 01/ regional parks or other recreational facilities? ( ) . A change in the General Plan designation will not create a demand for new parks or other recreational facilities. b) Affect existing recreational opportunities? ( ) ❑ ❑ ❑ a3' A change in the GP designation will not impact existing recreational sites or opportunities. 16. MANDATORY FINDINGS OF SIGNIFICANCE a) Does the project have the potential to degrade ❑ ❑ ❑ the quality of the environment, substantially reduce the habitat of a fish or wildlife species, cause a fish or wildlife population to drop below self-sustaining levels, threaten to eliminate a plant or animal community, reduce the number GP 96-001 — E.I.R. Checklist 7/95 -7- Potentially Signifi- Potentially UnIE • Less Than Significant Mitigation Significant No Impact Incorporated Impact Impact or restrict the range of a rare or endangered plant or animal or eliminate important examples of the major periods of California history or prehistory? ( . b) Does the project have the potential to achieve ❑ ❑ ❑ short-term, to the disadvantage of long-term, environmental goals? ( ) c) Does the project have impacts that are ❑ ❑ ❑ individually limited, but cumulatively considerable? ("Cumulatively considerable" means that the incremental effects of a project are considerable when viewed in connection with the effects of past projects, the effects of other current projects, and the effects of probable future projects). d) Does the project have environmental effects ❑ ❑ ❑ I=1/ which will cause substantial adverse effects on human beings, either directly or indirectly? GP 96-001 — E.I.R. Checklist 7/95 -8- • oF�. File No. G.P. 96-001 • ro, 1111 CITY OF ARC ADIA 240 WEST HUNTINGTON DRIVE � ARCADIA, CA 91007 RpORiclo- a�► ENVIRONMENTAL INFORMATION FORM Date Filed: N/A General Information 1. Applicant's Name: City of Arcadia Address: 240 West Huntington Drive, Arcadia, CA 91007 2. Property Address (Location): Northwest Corner of Second Avenue and Huntington Drive Assessor's Number: 3. Name, address and telephone number of person to be contacted concerning this project: Donna L. Butler City of Arcadia 240 West Huntington Drive Arcadia, CA 91007 4. List and describe any other related permits and other public approvals required for this project, including those required by city, regional, state and federal agencies: None 5. Zone Classification: M-1 & D (Planned Industrial District with a design overlay) 6. General Plan Designation: "Industrial" Project Description 7. Proposed use of site (project description): The site is vacant and the city is proposing to amend the General Plan designation to "Commercial". If approved the zoning would be changed to be consistent with the General Plan designation. 8. Site size: Approximately 4 acres 9. Square footage per building: There are no buildings on the site 10. Number of floors of construction: N/A 11. Amount of off-street parking provided: N/A 12. Proposed scheduling of project: N/A 13. Anticipated incremental development: N/A 14. If residential, include the number of units, schedule of unit sizes, range of sale prices or rents, and type of household sizes expected: N/A 15. If commercial, indicate the type, i.e. neighborhood, city or regionally oriented, square footage of sales area, and loading facilities, hours of operation: N/A 16. If industrial, indicate type, estimated employment per shift, and loading facilities: N/A 17. If institutional, indicate the major function, estimated employment per shift, estimated occupancy, loading facilities, and community benefits to be derived from the project: N/A 18. If the project involves a variance, conditional use permit or zoning application, state this and indicate clearly why the application is required: N/A Are the following items applicable to the project or its effects? Discuss below all items checked yes (attach additional sheets as necessary). YES NO 19. Change in existing features of any hills, or substantial alteratin of ground ❑ contours. 20. Change in scenic views or vistas from existing residential areas or public ❑ a lands or roads. 21. Change in pattern, scale or character of general area of project. U 2 22. Significant amounts of solid waste or litter. ❑ LY 23. Change in dust, ash, smoke, fumes or odors in vicinity. ❑ la GP 96-001 Environmental Information Form YES NO 24. Change in ground water quality or quantity, or alteration of existing ❑ 0" drainage patterns. 25. Substantial change in existing noise or vibration levels in the vicinity. ❑ 26. Is site on filled land or on any slopes of 10 percent or more. ❑ 27. Use or disposal of potentially hazardous materials, such as toxic substances, ❑ 0` flammable or explosives. 28. Substantial change in demand for municipal services (police, fire, water, ❑ ❑� sewage, etc.). 29. Substantial increase in fossil fuel consumption (electricity, oil, natural gas, ❑ U" etc.). 30. Relationship to a larger project or series of projects. ❑ L Environmental Setting 31. Describe (on a separate sheet) the project site as it exists before the project, including information on topography, soil stability, plants and animals, any cultural, historical or scenic aspects, any existing structures on the site, and the use of the structures. Attach photographs of the site. Snapshots or Polaroid photos will be accepted. 32. Describe (on a separate sheet) the surrounding properties, including information on plants, animals, any cultural, historical or scenic aspects. Indicate the type of land uses (residential, commercial, etc.), intensity of land use (one-family, apartment houses, shops, department stores, etc.), and scale of development (height, frontage, set-backs, rear yards, etc.). Attach photographs of the vicinity. Snapshots or Polaroid photos will be accepted. Certification I hereby certify that the statements furnished above and in the attached exhibits present the data and information required for this initial evaluation to the best of my ability, and that the facts, statements, and information presented are true and correct to the best of my knowledge and belief. Date Si:nature GP 96-001 Environmental Information Form -3- SO i AACJ_I� STAFF REPORT �`ORAS80 DEVELOPMENT SERVICES DEPARTMENT January 9, 1996 TO: Chairman and Members of the Arcadia City Planning Commission FROM: Donna L. Butler, Community Development Administrator 4 SUBJECT: Determination if a"Theme Interactive Entertainment Facility" is an appropriate use in the CPD-1 zone SUMMARY The City has received a letter from Jeff Brown on behalf of Kalvin Lee requesting a determination that a "theme interactive entertainment facility" is a compatible use in the CPD-1 (Commercial Planned Development) zone per Section 9260.1.6.(24). The Development Services Department is requesting that the Planning Commission review the proposed request and forward their recommendation to the City Council for consideration. The Development Services Department is recommending that if this use is deemed appropriate in the CPD-1 zone it only be allowed with an approved conditional use permit. DISCUSSION When the CPD-1 regulations were adopted in 1981, they were designed primarily to encourage business and professional office uses, financial institutions and very limited retail and service oriented businesses. Sections 9260.1.6 and 9260.1.12. set forth the types of uses permitted in the CPD-1 zone without and with a conditional use permit. These sections also provide that the City Council may approve "any other uses deemed to be compatible with the purposes of this Title." Since adoption of the CPD-1 zone many additional uses have been deemed compatible by the City Council. The CPD-1 zone applies to the area bounded by the 210 Freeway on the north, Fifth Avenue on the east, the railroad tracks to the south, and Second Avenue to the west. A map of this area is attached. According to the information submitted by Mr. Brown, theme entertainment facilities provide interactive laser games that are an offshoot of virtual reality technology. "Laser ccrpt/Iasrptpc PC Report-Theme Entertainment January 9, 1996 Page 1 Storm", one of the newer games, is a battle simulation game generally played by two teams of six to eight players each, in an arena which uses infra-red beams with a simulated light laser for tracking purposes. The arena is a fog-shrouded futuristic dreamscape complete with glowing graphics, strobe lights and sound effects. Walls are lightweight plastic boards that are movable. Based on the information furnished to the City the average size of an arena is 3,000 sq. ft. The cost to play these games ranges from $3.00 to $5.00 and last ten (10) minutes. Theme entertainment facilities are not video games; an entire building may be dedicated to this use only by virtue of the participatory interactive nature of the game and size of the arena. RECOMMENDATION Because this particular type of business is not defined in the Code and may be an appropriate use, subject to specific conditions, staff is recommending that if it is determined that a "theme interactive entertainment facility" is a compatible use in the CPD-1 zone, that it be permitted only with an approved conditional use permit. Because this matter deals with a zoning issue, staff is requesting that the Planning Commission review the attached material and forward their recommendation to the City Council for consideration. ACTION The Planning Commission may recommend to the City Council: 1. Approval of this request by determining that a "theme interactive entertainment facility" is a compatible use with an approved conditional use permit for the purposes of the CPD-1 zone under Section 9260.1.12.(14); or 2. Approval of this request by determining that a "theme interactive entertainment facility" is a compatible use (without a conditional use permit) for the purposes of the CPD-1 zone under Section 9260.1.6.(24); or 3. That a"theme interactive entertainment facility" is not a compatible use in the CPD-1 zone. If the Planning Commission has any questions regarding this matter prior to the scheduled public hearing, please contact me at your earliest convenience. Attachments: Map of CPD-1 area Exhibit A- Information on"theme interactive entertainment facility" ccrpt/lasrptpc PC Report-Theme Entertainment January 9, 1996 Page 2 400 M LASE R November 21, 1995 D m 7 a Arcadia City Council Arcadia, CA Dear Sirs, Mr. Kalvin Lee has requested that I write to you concerning his potential site for a Laser Storm themed entertainment facility. First, a little history about Laser Storm may be helpful. Laser Storm, Inc. has been in business for over 5 years and currently is the fastest growing company in the laser tag entertainment industry. We currently have over 140 locations within the United States and nine different foreign countries. We offer a safe, family type facility appealing to ages 8 and up. Birthday parties, social groups, and corporate events are just a few of the many customers who frequent our locations. Players are separated into two teams with games that encourage teamwork. Since a large part of our customers are families, we are very responsive to the social concerns of youths and violence. We never use terms like "shoot" or"kill", rather we use descriptions like "tag", "zap", or"de-activate". The game is played on one level and the two teams are always separated by a dividing line, meaning opponents don't have direct interaction with each other. Our equipment uses harmless infra-red beams with a simulated light laser for tracking purposes. The arena walls are made of lightweight plastic boards that are movable if bumped into. All of our games have met local and state safety codes. Please see a letter that I also an sending from the Denver Police Dept. concerning the lack of problems at one of our locations. Also, I would be happy to address any specific questions that you may have. I can be reached at 1-800-927-4273. Sincerely Je : • n Laser Storm, Inc. 7700 Cherry Creek South Drive Denver, Colorado 80231 800•Y•A•PHASER (303) 751-8545 Fax (303) 751-8546 400ENVER POLICE DEPAR T • INTER-DEPARTME T CORRESPONDENCE ) TO: FROM: % .c--/--/,9i c/4r7 h'1 i G6zAeZ {/4 PPE 86 0/6 DATE: 05:-0,20- q y SUBJECT: PRO43(-0 yl S 71- Coeirl PLAY P t irvi'TS l LA-5c S . JY\ THE- i Y EJ 2'S 777*7-- LN S 1<2_ 5 i o.e ri,? /-//t S 6r -vt /,-(s (0E- 7W 7 / I' ZA m4LL, 7VE DalcJ PcL,C Of--/ -cv-e5 c-0/10 ypiec)v,DE SEGUeay • ,z 77/6- M 1 c_c_, i-M-0E- EX Pee/ E�cam) r10 cR A Ccn7?e 0� tP1 a8L Y7? 02 CIC1✓1'2' 1 Y1/ 5c1/2 - / �!6•�/3 die- IS 01.A 0,a2 P20 6 Lem.S , /F Ya(... Am-aE. PLe7r6E F--- "(--- diet 7Z) C_0/1 / T' rnE--- 4.7— 7/ Y) (wiry)43Ce (5Y) 7774 H- c.oen. ,Bins/i7�S CA22). Re-SPGc_77.744(...z..-(. 7c-cli il //1-,-1 )07 / / 86 alp. _ DENVER POLICE DEPARTMENT • CITY AND COUNTY OF DENVER' •- - Tech. M. Rappe 86016 . �%r` %• 2195 Decatur St �•',4,� :if- ''Denver Co i��•.,, ,, PHONE:(303) %4-1111 Police Administration Building•1331 Cherokee Street Denver,Colorado 80204-2787 ■ DPD 200(Rev. 12/86) • Arena Contact Arena Address Laser Storm San Diego Neil Medlock 5401 Linda Vista Road.Suite#409,San Diego. CA 92110 Roller Skateland East Noble Craver 9365 Mission Gorge Road, Santee, CA 92071 Gable House Bowl Mickey Cogan 22501 Hawthorn Blvd., Torrance, CA 90505 Putt Putt Golf Ross Briles 4307 Coffee Road, Modesto, CA 95357 ■..3 West Coast Laser Storm Danny Jack 1321 Garnett Ave. & Fennel St. Pacific Beach, CA 90601 Gable House Bowl#2 Mickey Cogan 22501 Hawthorne Blvd,. Torrance, CA 90505 Bakersfield Inflat.-Camelot Park Rachel Bowden 1251 Oak St., Bakersfield, CA 93304 Palace Park Daryn King, John Rouse 3405 Michelson Dr, Irvine, CA 92715 Vista Entertainment Bill Harmatz 435 West Vista Way, Vista, CA 92083 L" 0 r) O 0 0 L A S E R EXTRA! EXTk! S • M READ ALL ABOUT US ! TM EXHIBIT A Laser Storm, Inc. 7700 Cherry Creek South Drive Denver, Colorado 80231 800•Y•A•PHASER (303) 751-8545 Fax (303) 751-8546 S. I. - c ti•rW 41 tc¢• r;` _ r '+ate µNQ" c•• r i i _ _ i - ,. .r-.xis �,--= n } ; • ]'�,4=0.'-::-';'� ^--?� f _ l_ David ParkerlGazette-Journal ON THE ALERT:Serena Proudfoot wears black to make it harder for other players to see her in the darkened room. square-foot arena,players must don game,the object of the game is to blast IN The battle to Malay. belts with lightweight power-packs. the opponent with the phaser. FACT FILE headphone style headsets and simulated The phasers emit high-intensity red LASER STORM Laser Storm finds fans laser guns,called phasers. light beams and radio signals that,when The game's playing field conveys an aimed correctly,activates small in Sparks. receivers in the opposing players' •What:Battle simulation game other-world feeling.The murky arena headphones and phasers.Ahigh-pitched •Where:Kings Skate Country,185: resembles a futuristic discotheque— explosion rings through the headphones E.Lincoln Way,Sparks. • with fluorescent carpet,fog machine, when a players hit and the opposioe •When:noon to 10 p.m Sunday- 6y Eric Tiansay specialized lighting,top-of-the-line team gets a point.Players who are hit Thursday:noon to midnight GAZETTE-JOURNAL sound system and four 400-watt must"re-energize"their phasers from weekends. speakers playing techno-music. "energy pods"before returning to the •Cost:$3 Monday-Thursday:$4 erena Proudfoot has gone through Fluorescent barriers and signs arranged game. weekends. the eye of the Storm and she says in a maze configuration makeup the rest Since discovering the game.Denver ■Details:359 5572. it's a blast.Asa frequent player of of the game's setting.A scoreboard Hughes and Mike Brockelspy,both 15• Laser Storm,a new interactive hangs on one wall.In addition.a have done a lot of returning e.the game. laser eame inside the Sparks Kings monitor supervises each game. They've both played Laser Storm 30 Skate Country.Proudfoot has boldly times and counting. interaction and projectiles. gone where few 10-year-old girls have Opponents can play"Beads up"(one "I liken it to a roller coaster ride," on one)or in groups—ideally,live on "I think it'll be big,"Brockelspy Holman says."I've been in there t 0 gone before. five•Once play begins on the 10-minute exclaims•"I just keep coming...It's minutes—without running—and "It's fun and it's coot."Proudfoot like an arcade game but better because come out sweating.It's a harmless explains."It's like playing hide-and-seek you're scurrying around in your hands come swean non-violent a armgame." but better." and knees and not Just vegetatine•" Jim one v Hunter,who game.'} That's not to say Laser Storm's an PLAYERS OFFER Hughes agrees with his Laser Storm took their Jayne Hun Jimmy who to try tt ordinary peekaboo kid's game.It's (� . counterpart. Laser Storm•concurs with Holman.ou certainly not cheap with its 580.000 STORM U RM TACTICS "It's addicting,but a good addicting," I think it looks like good,clean fun price tag. Hughes explains."It gives me a rush.It's ■"Keep your head down and don't Jim.47,says."It looks interesting and An offshoot of virtual reality worth the 3 because it's so exhilarating. technology,Laser Storm.manufactured jump the gun,"Denver Hughes challenging.And I like that it's You feel like you're in a warp ut you re supervise.Kids need more technical by Denver-based Space Sport Inc..is a advises."Keep low and stay behind not•..It's a lot better than paint ball." y the barriers." things like this." battle simulation game.Laser Storm's ■"Aiwa s move around,especially Jin;Holman,general manager of the the'90s version of an old-fashioned cat- y Sparks King Skate Country.says unlike Jayne_44,echoes her husband's no and-mouse game—complete with after you hit your opponent."Mike the short-lived paint ball fad.Laser "I think it's good for the kids to get enough high-tech gadgets and gizmos to Brockelspy stresses. And always Storm:%an be played by anyone—thus, some of that energy out,"she says."I make Capt.Kirk proud. pick the red side." no insurance liabilities—and there's no wish I was 20 years younger or I'd pia• Before entering the ame's 3.000- injury factor because there's no physical because it looks like a lot of fun.' Laser mimes repay wikestment, • , by Art Snyder . `=,,•— . _ s . . - •It's fun, it's exciting and it takes :____- -'.. .. :, - some planning, but rink operators agree . • --- f _1 i •y, that a laser attraction can be worth the I. +.: -��- '_ ., , "{ investment. Keith Ferraro and Dan King a "'' y -T -" •say they've added the zip of laser games r" `` - ' , . 7� • to their rinks, and the promise is big. ' ' ' ••''',) ' yid 1-1.--.1•.'‘.'•.�-N �}t` '`4 ` .' t - Ferraro, who runs Skateland of Glen i :. C _ :a. t : ,,� is j i' •% Falls, in Glen Falls, N.Y., and King, who s �','',,,'^ ,7.111:1k;1• Q `� .-.`..43--.:...# • -: owns four King's Skate Country rinks in Yr; Q, £� J. s 1,,4 Reno and elsewhere, take a big-picture ?; �.y t •look at where their rinks fit into today's .`) • +� ,c-r=.1 • �� •''! t,; ,: -' -y amusement scene. With a lot of ' . .. 7, - �' •ate:.�''•' _-tie"=.. competition for the public's entertainment ••-.':';?` '. ' '.earvv _-c:, , 'j'. . •��. dollar,today's rink operator has to provide 'r '. -\ i. '•-:.'' ., .""`4` ` •�4 a lot of bang for the buck. Water slides, "' r►' �P '• � �! ''+ •miniature golf and go-karts are mainstays _ -4-r:, - =�'�+' :' '•• of any rink operator's total public `�'�=�'• -t-r. 31.•" -• . ''''-‘11. .' entertainment image, but laser activities The laser maze provides for a lot of excitement in this new profit center. People perhaps do the best job of thrusting a of all ages can use the lightweight equipment. Precautions are taken to insure a rink's image into the future, they say. fun vet safe experience. If you're thinking about expanding your own rink's amusements — and a system that had the players' equipment For Ferraro.that meant construction work. profit-centers — learn how Ferraro and needing recharging all the time. Being "We had to build a building onto our King made the move to the world of young. they needed something easy to rink to accommodate the laser arena• and lasers. Their advice couldn't be more understand and to have fun quickly once we moved the video games into the timely. they suited up. Maintenance costs were a adjacent area.' he explains. It's Skateland of Glen Falls factor, too, he says. convenient. he adds, and an attractive Ferraro says he was looking to both "If you have a short time period of neon sign draws skaters and others into build his overall rink business and enhance running the packs,you have to have twice this portion of his rink's facilities. its reputation as a total family as many units" to keep the game floor "The company gave me basic entertainment center when he first thought occupied and to keep players from having constraints about the number of people about a laser attraction. to stand around waiting—and not adding who could play in a laser arena.• he "We were looking for an additional to your coffers—he explains, noting that continues. Based on this information,"We rink activity, one that we could operate investment in equipment can be a • built a 34- by 50-foot building of blocks, year-round here in New York, where significant factor. with a metal roof. It took about a month weather is a major winter factor,' Ferraro Ferraro adds that at first he was leery. for the basic shell to go up. using local . says. "I'd seen kids and adults play laser too. of dividing his arena into specialized contractors: then another two weeks with tag a couple of years ago and they seemed areas, to create a separate laser game a solid crew to finish everything. to love it," floor. Now he sees that it's better to have "One of the reasons we went with a Ferraro says he then looked into the pos- the laser arena set off, because "safety is new building was that we wanted to create sibility of a laser draw at his rink,then he good.'he explains. a totally new environment,one that would did his homework. "I considered the cost "Foam edges around the playing get people into our rink who haven't of the system, did some arena"add a measure of ease to insurance skated in years.' research on it, and talked with various considerations, he continues. Into this newly constructed area went manufacturers," recalls Ferraro, whose An indoor arena for laser play also the arena,scoreboard•waiting area(where rink is north of Albany, at the base of the worked in his favor with New York's youngsters suit up while others are on the Adirondack Mountains in the eastern part notable snowy winters. • floor, playing) and video games. The of the state. "I thought a laser attraction would be games can he critical. because they can After talking with Laser Storm good because people could play it keep your customers busy—and keep representatives,some issues about adding throughout the year." he notes; "Our two money rolling in—while waiting their a laser tag game to his rink became clearer other attractions are outdoor attractions. turn with the lasers. to Ferraro.With a mostly youth crowd,he so this helps round out the picture.' Generally. two teams'of eight players knew his customers needed lightweight Sonic rink operators choose to are on the floor at any given=fnu. with an equipment for laser play. He knew young construct the laser facility within the equal number suiting up. "Phis system people needed something easy to handle, confines of their existing rink. but when gets the most out of your investment. he in addition to being light. He didn't want space is tight. other options are a must. says. because there's little down time. repnnted by permission. (co I l t i I t lied) Laser games a raw,ing large creels of all ages (continued) "We have 30-second turnover example. makes sure that not too many of (used in playing laser tag) in the auena:' this way.'he stresses. their arenas are in any one area. This King says that rink operauor ought The laser company provided the setup helps prevent over-saturation of a market. to make sure they do a lot of planning_ and information and instructions for bringing King's Skate Country know before hand what they want out of the whole system up to speed, Ferraro With four rinks, Dan, King knows a their new laser facilities. As with anything notes. thing or two about rink operations. He that can cost from S30,000 to S80.000 or grasped the fact that a laser arena would more, paying attention to details is a '. -''''''.= i';•''' fit in nicely with the "total-entertainment" must. This includes everything from the ,`- .t. . • -- .'` concept that marked his rink in Sparks. basic rules of laser games to knowing all + �� The rink is near a water park, a go-kart about laser equipment: what's needed -+ ' • : ' 1 ) - •. facility, an arcade and a miniature golf and how much? What are maintenance �. �. attraction, so a leading-edge draw like a expectations and costs? What about down laser arena would be sure to enhance his time? How do you organize leagues? !�- position in a crowded field. "Besides being good to work with .�:;:::— ........ - • "We've had our laser arena since Laser Storm has been upgrading and a ' ", ," December, and we're happy with it," improving its equipment all the time • '� '` `� = ;?i:-- 7:•r King says. "We'd do it again, too." changing things as needed:' King says. " fi r°`" He cautions other rink operators that "They're good at repairing equipment, i _..+-y-„ W ,= e;: it takes time to do it right, though. too. If we have heavy usage over the ', '''...2 ti; ,-;<,.;.-6...:� "It took some planning," he explains. weekend and something is down on A---.7., ' : 1:11, --. • ib� = Y We had to get the physical dimensions Monday, we can ship it to them and have SLR' , needed for the staging area — the square it back, repaired, by Wednesday.' < i �"-•�_ '.� 1'1' footage to get the setup done right. We This has to be a factor when you • '' ' K. ` have 30,000 square feet at our Sparks consider the game has broad appeal, and . max• �,.. •�' t:-:-.1 w rink, and we used 3,500 square feet for especially strong appeal with the older i '`- ' ;L.,- ,,.-, the laser set-up:' crowd, a lot of males in the 16-to-25 "'' L '�•- 4"'"'" tom= Looking back, 'King says he would range. A separate area for the laser games is allocate even more space for the attraction. With a standout system that includes brightly lit and enticing! "We don't have room for games in that "the latest in sound equipment. lights, area, or a birthday room there, either. I carpeting and everything that goes with "It's important to do your homework wish we had set aside 5,000 square feet, it, we have $100,000 in our laser arena," and to get your employees trained in the so people waiting to play the laser game King explains. "We're still lining up the functioning of the whole system." Ferraro could play video games." discounts (to introduce people to the emphasizes, if quick and continued "The laser company set up the arena game), building our laser birthday party success is your goal. and scoreboard in just two days," King promotions, and fine-tuning our whole Ferraro says that his system boasts a says."We put in the sound system and the laser operation. It's just a matter of time computer-controlled music system, sound carpet. They also put in the obstacles before we're at our peak. effects, fog makers and special lights. r .,-r..7<..-,r-•TS B, i N --6 "We have both strobe and pan lights, t •which add a new dimension," he says. r 1 • r "It's a lot like a rock concert:" �= `°—� Laser games appeal to "kids from 5 _ - to 65," he says. "We do a lot with the . " ter• •• .°"�' 7:2-•• . • system with our birthday parties, and it's N especially attractive with adults. We .• sometimes have 40 to 50 playing at a . VI: jai a • time A lot of the appeal of a laser attraction i _ i } •_; -I it depends on your sessions and the day of _ # p�`� the week. We do especially well with ,, - t; . :aa1.._ families and adults."(continued) - {j_ Ferraro figures it takes about a year I r , 4' ,•for a laser attraction to catch on since • "it's such a learning process for all — J .,,,,F_• rink owners, employees and customers -'- •alike," he explains. "Word-of-mouth , _ ,1 ,, F helps a lot with an attraction like this It �.' r �. y V.r +j + ' X� ;` _ 2 v. really advertises itself better than anything • . f` . •'- ` ..=v ,,•_ �' _ - .=.ti. else you do' Itt?A 4:04:1 ... :;= s.14<:•1z t,„ ii`_'-,-e,,:=t .i :c«ti. . .. While there may he laser competitors, The Skateland Family Fun Center, above, in Glen Falls, N.Y., offers Ferraro concedes.. Lauer Storm. for video games which entertain waiting laser game players. lie 0111 it•A- I it,t J - "i•• Taking the couatry by laser storm By John Rich They want to be Luke Skywalker or The Terminator or the Bladerunner or even blaster's unique thumb Dirty Harry. And they're lining up by the thousands to play the number one laser trigger allows an easy fit game in America—Laser Storm. for all hand sizes. The A typical Laser Storm arena is decorated with fluorescent fog-shrouded graphics, system is so easy to music and sound effects. Suddenly, laser beams blast overhead. A spaceship can be operate, a group of 48 can heard in the distance. You energize your blaster, rally your team and the fun begins! be equipped and briefed in It's hide and seek and blast...but you've already been spotted by the other team 3 minutes. and laser shots cut through the fog. You take a direct hit, disabling your blaster. Your headset advises, Laser Storm's unique "Energize...energize". You make game themes are designed your way back to an Energy Pod, to be easily interchange- "re-load"and you're right back in able, allowing operators to action. You risk a look at the 1 ir m aintain excitement for scoreboard. Your team is down 7 , .. • even the most frequent point with only minutes to Itt- players. Each theme la time for Plan B. You direct " ... provides a complete your team to storm the Neutral scenario, appropriate Zone, blasting on the move. You graphics, scoring and game _ score 2, 3, 5 points...but your rules.; headset announces those dreaded I ` ' Operating a Laser Storm words, "Game over". It's O.K., .4 , A arena is simple. Some we'll get them next time you say ', ,t�` y >.L operators run their arenas as your team heads for the counter .e,` N , themselves, while others for a re-match The music begins are absentee owners,hiring under the hissing fog. This time outside help at local you're the red team. This time t you're Wyatt E competitive hourly rates. Y Y arp - The upfront investment is Laser Storm is an interactive substantially lower than laser game where two teams, comprised of 2 to 24 players each any other laser game. A • twelve-player system can compete in a themed laser arena. A be set up in as little as Neutral Zone separates the teams 1500 square feet for under with a waist-high barrier, allowing $30,000. Attributes such as no player to cross over into the low initial investment,high other team's territory. This serves ;.,,' % profit potential,two purposes—there is no confu- - � . P Po warp- speed as to who is on who's team return of investment, (unlike other laser games) and > and great fun for the whole x° a ''. family are what's making Laser Storm the fastest- (Continued from page one) I growing laser game in • secondly, prevents players from running and chasing i America. opponents through the arena, thus decreasing the likeli- Laser Storm is a product hood of injury. of Space Sport Ltd.,7700 Games typically last ten minutes. Charges range from - I Cherry Creek South Drive, $3 to$5 per game,per player. A smart operator can run 6 Denver, CO 80231; 1-800- games per hour, utilizing two sets of equipment, for Y-A PHASER , maximum throughput. While one group is playing, the . next group is being outfitted and briefed, allowing for rapid turnover. Think of the profit potential. The Laser Storm player unit is designed for use by 3- year olds and up. It is the only system on the market to . comfortably fit a small hand as well as an adult's. There are no bulky vests,no heavy battery packs to lug around, no goofy helmets and no awkward weapons that require two hands to operate. Instead, Laser Storm equipment consists of a lightweight Velcro controller belt,a tele- phone-style headset and a small, hand-held blaster. The 6 g' -- z 46 �• nxcan • t"41 O4P0RAT80 STAFF REPORT DATE: February 20, 1996 DEVELOPMENT SERVICES DEPARTMENT TO: Mayor and City Council FROM: '/Peter P. Kinnahan, Economic Development Administrator SUBJECT: REPORT AND RECOMMENDATION TO CLOSE OFF SOUTH FIRST AVENUE BETWEEN HUNTINGTON DRIVE AND CALIFORNIA STREET FOR THE DOWNTOWN 2000 GRAND REOPENING CELEBRATION ON SATURDAY, MARCH 30, 1996 SUMMARY Staff is requesting permission to barricade South First Avenue from the alley south of Huntington Drive to California Street on Friday, March 29, 1996 at 6:30 p.m. until Saturday, March 30, 1996 at 6:00 p.m. for the Downtown 2000 Grand Reopening Celebration. DESCRIPTION The Downtown 2000 Streetscape project will be completed by late March, 1996. •Staff is working with downtown merchants on a major community festival to celebrate the reopening of the downtown. The proposed community festival will be held on South First Avenue between the alley south of Huntington Drive and California Street. It will require closing First Avenue at Alta, Bonita, and the alleys between Alta and California at First from 6:30 p.m. Friday, March 29;1996 until Saturday, March 30, 1996 at 6:00 p.m. The Grand Reopening Ceremony will include a Ribbon Cutting Dedication at 9:00 a.m., March 30, 1996, with live entertainment throughout the day (10:00 a.m. 3:00 p.m.) There will be food tables, police and fire vehicles and classic cars on display, children's games, raffles, dance lessons, and a historical display. FISCAL IMPACT Funds for the Celebration are included in the Agency's adopted FY 1995-96 budget. RECOMMENDATION It is recommended that the City Council approve closing off of South First Avenue between the alley south of Huntington Drive and California Street on Friday, March 29, 1996 at 6:30 p.m. until Saturday, March 30, 1996 at 5:00 p.m. for the Downtown 2000 Grand Reopening Celebration. Approved by: ;P"T ' q William R. Kelly, City Manager cc �u. LASER F .J 9 M