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Development Services Department
DATE: May 27, 2014
TO: Honorable Chairman and Planning Commission
FROM: Jim Kasama, Community Development Administrator
By: Jordan Chamberlin, Assistant Planner
SUBJECT: APPEAL OF THE MODIFICATION COMMITTEE'S CONDITIONAL
APPROVAL OF MODIFICATION NO. MC 13-26 AND SIGN DESIGN
REVIEW NO. SADR 13-52 FOR ONE NEW 7'-1" HIGH BY 8'-6" WIDE,
DOUBLE-SIDED MONUMENT SIGN WITH LIGHT-EMITTING DIODE (LED)
MESSAGE BOARDS INSTEAD OF TWO NEW SIGNS AT 400 W. DUARTE
ROAD
Recommended Action: Deny appeal and uphold the Modification
Committee's decision.
SUMMARY
This appeal of the Modification Committee's conditions of approval for Modification No. MC
13-26 and Sign Design Review No. SADR 13-52 was submitted by Mr. Wayne Whitehill, the
representative for the Church of the Good Shepherd United Methodist. The subject
applications were submitted by the sign designer, CalWest Lighting Services, to construct
two new 7'-1" high by 8'-6" wide, double-sided monument signs with light-emitting diode
(LED) message boards — see the attached aerial photo, proposed plans, and photos of the
subject property and neighboring properties. it is recommended that the Planning
Commission deny the appeal and uphold the Modification Committee's decision.
GENERAL INFORMATION
APPELLANT: Mr. Wayne Whitehill, Representative for the Church of the Good Shepherd
LOCATION: 400 W. Duarte Road
REQUEST: An appeal of the Modification Committee's conditional approval of the
following Modifications and Sign Design Review for two new 7'-1" high by
8'-6" wide, double-sided monument signs with electronic message boards:
a. A total of four monument signs (two existing and two new signs) with a
combined total sign area of 411 square feet; and
b. Allow the two new monument signs to be illuminated.
SITE AREA: 3.64 acres
FRONTAGES: Approximately 423 feet along W. Duarte Road
Approximately 332 feet along Holly Avenue
EXISTING LAND USE & ZONING:
The subject property is a 3.64 acre corner lot, zoned R-3 (High-Density Multiple
Family Residential). It is developed with a church built in 1956.
SURROUNDING LAND USES & ZONING:
North: Two-story, multiple-family residential development, zoned R-3
South: One and two-story, single-family residential developments, zoned R-1
East: Holly Avenue Elementary School, zoned S-2
West: Two-story, multiple-family residential development, zoned R-3
GENERAL PLAN DESIGNATION:
High Density Residential — This designation accommodates higher-density attached
housing types for both renter and owner households within a neighborhood context.
Such housing types generally are located near transit stops, along arterials and
transit corridors, and within easy walking distance of shops and services.
Appropriate transition to adjacent lower-density neighborhoods is required through
use of yards, other open areas, and building heights. This designation
accommodates 12 to 30 dwelling units per acre. Other uses that may be
appropriate, consistent with zoning regulations, include public and private schools,
public parks, and other open space uses.
BACKGROUND
On October 24, 2013, the applicant filed Sign Design Review No. SADR 13-52 and
Modification No. MC 13-26 for two new, 7'-1" high by 8'-6" wide, double-sided monument
signs with light-emitting diode (LED) displays encased in each side of the signs. The
Modification requests are to allow two illuminated signs with LED color displays on a
property that is zoned High-Density Multiple-Family Residential (R-3). The new signs are to
be located closer than 200 feet apart from the existing monument signs, and closer than
100 feet from a residentially-zoned property.
The subject property is a 3.64 acre corner lot, zoned R-3 (High-Density Multiple-Family
Residential). It is developed with a church built in 1956 — see the attached aerial photo, and
photos of the subject property and neighboring properties. It is common throughout the City
for churches to be located on a residentially-zoned property with a Conditional Use Permit
(CUP). The properties to the north and west are also zoned R-3. The property to the south
is zoned R-1 (Single-Family Residential). The property to the east is zoned S-2 (Public
Purpose) and is currently occupied by Holly Avenue Elementary School.
Appeal of MC 13-26 & SADR 13-52
400 W. Duarte Road
May 27, 2014 — Page 2 of 7
Currently, the site has two monument signs for the Good Shepherd Church and two ground
mounted signs, each supported by two posts on solid bases, to identify the Church's
nursery school (refer to the attached site plan, sign chart and photos of existing signs). The
R-3 regulations, which do not allow illuminated identification signs, do not address signs for
nonresidential properties. In absence of requirements for signs on a nonresidential property
in an R-3 zone, the City's commercial sign regulations were used as a guideline for review.
Consideration of an illuminated sign with an electronic LED display can only be considered
through a Modification. This was the process for approval of the signs for the Arcadia
Masonic Center and the Arcadia Chamber of Commerce.
On April 8, 2014, the Modification Committee conditionally approved the project with a 3-0
vote to allow one double-sided 7'-1" high by 8'-6" wide monument sign with LED displays,
subject to the following conditions. Copies of the Modification Committee staff report and
decision letter to the applicant are attached.
1. Only one double-sided monument sign with a LED message board on each side of the
sign shall be permitted. The maximum size of the sign shall not exceed 7'-1" in height
by 8'-6" in width. The applicant shall select its location (Duarte Rd. or Holly Ave.) and if
the sign is placed on Duarte Road, it shall be located at least 200 feet apart from the
other signs. The location of the sign shall be approved by the Planning Services
Manager, or designee, prior to issuance of a building permit from Building Services.
2. The digital display on the LED message board cannot change more frequently that
once a minute and may only operate between the hours of 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM, daily.
3. No videos, flashing or blinking, or moving animated images shall be permitted within a
given message per AMC Sec. 9262.4.3(C). Simple transitions between messages are
acceptable. An example of an acceptable transition would include, but not be limited
to, fading out/in or sliding in from a single direction. An example of prohibited
animations would include, but not be limited to, spinning, bouncing, dissolving, or
zooming animations.
On April 14, 2014, Mr. Wayne Whitehill, the representative for the Church of the Good
Shepherd United Methodist filed a timely appeal of the Modification Committee's action.
Additional letters were received from the Church on April 23, 2014, requesting a
postponement of the Planning Commission hearing, and on May 13, 2014, clarifying which
conditions of approval the Church wanted to appeal. The appeal, postponement, and
appeal clarification letters are attached.
DISCUSSION
The appellant is appealing the Modification Committee decision to request approval for two
doubled-sided monument signs, a total of four freestanding signs on the site, to allow the
new signs to be closer than 200 feet from the existing signs, exceed the maximum
allowable sign area of 350 square feet, and to be allowed to have messages on the LED
displays from 6:00 AM to 11:59 PM, every day.
Appeal of MC 13-26 & SADR 13-52
400 W. Duarte Road
May 27, 2014 — Page 3 of 7
Currently, the site has two monument signs for the Good Shepherd Church and two
freestanding signs, each supported by two posts on solid bases, to identify the Church's
nursery school (refer to the attached site plan, sign chart and photos of existing signs). The
Church proposes to remove the two nursery school signs and replace them with the new
monument signs.
By allowing two new signs in addition to the existing two monument signs, the total sign
area will exceed the maximum allowable commercial sign area of 350 square feet by 61
square feet (17%). The total sign area of all four monument signs would be 411 square feet.
On Duarte Road the applicant is requesting three monument signs within a distance of
approximately 260 feet, and on Holly Avenue the two monument signs would be 123 feet
apart.
Staff's recommendation to the Modification Committee was as follows:
1. Only one double-sided monument sign with a LED message board on each side of the
sign shall be permitted. The overall size of the sign shall not exceed 6'-6" in height by
7'-6" in width. The LED message board shall not exceed 1'-6" in height by 6'-6" in
width. The applicant shall select its location (Duarte Rd. or Holly Avenue), and if the
sign is placed on Duarte Road it shall be located at least 200 feet away from the other
signs. The location of the sign shall be approved by the Planning Services Manager, or
designee, prior to issuance of a building permit from Building Services.
2. The digital display on the LED message board cannot change more frequently than
once every hour and may only operate between the hours of 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM,
daily. This would allow the message to change regularly without constant movement
that could be a distraction for drivers.
3. The digital display on the LED message board shall be limited to text only and no more
than two colors. No dimensional graphics, background images, videos, flashing or
blinking, or moving animated images shall be permitted within a given message.
Simple transitions between messages are acceptable. An example of an acceptable
transition would include, but not be limited to: fading out/in or sliding in from a single
direction. An example of prohibited animations would include, but not be limited to:
spinning, bouncing, dissolving, or zooming animations.
Staff determined that a total of four monument signs would create visual clutter and result in
a streetscape that would have a commercial appearance, particularly since across the
street there is a double-sided pedestal sign with LED displays at the corner of the Holly
Avenue Elementary School.
Sign Design Review
Each new monument sign would be comprised of almond colored stucco for the body. The
quoins and architectural feature on top of each sign would be made of high-density foam
painted almond and dark brown. The lettering and logo will be dark red and internally-
illuminated. The design of each sign, as well as the colors and materials are consistent with
Appeal of MC 13-26 & SADR 13-52
400 W. Duarte Road
May 27, 2014 — Page 4 of 7
the existing Church building. With conditions of approval, the signs will be compatible with
the surrounding neighborhood and consistent with the City's Sign Design Guidelines.
The Modification Committee determined that two new double-sided signs with LED
message boards in addition to the existing signs would be excessive, and because the site
has two frontages, Holly Avenue and Duarte Road, the proposed signs should meet the
minimum distance required between the signs, which would reduce the visual impacts to the
streetscape and lessen distractions to motorists.
As a result, the Committee approved one double-sided monument sign at the requested
size of 7'-1" high by 8'-6" wide with 2'-6" high by 7'-8" wide LED displays. The new sign may
be located within 100 feet of a residentially-zoned property, but it must be at least 200 feet
away from other monument signs if it is to be located along W. Duarte Road. The
messages in the LED displays may change once every minute (no limit on the color or
background images) and operate from 7 AM to 10 PM, every day. One of the existing signs
must be removed to meet the minimum distance of 200 feet between signs if the new sign is
to be located along Duarte Road.
Given that the proposed signs would have a total sign area that is 17% greater than what is
allowed for commercial signage, be significantly larger than the existing signs, and that the
signs would directly face residential properties, staff recommends approval of the sign that
the Modification Committee conditionally approved, and denial of the appeal request.
ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS
The proposed project qualifies as a Class 11 Exemption for Accessory Structures from the
requirements of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) under Section 15311 of
the CEQA Guidelines. A Preliminary Exemption Assessment is attached to this staff report.
PUBLIC NOTICE/COMMENTS
Public hearing notices for this appeal of the Modification Committee's conditions of approval
for MC 13-26 and SADR 13-52 were mailed on May 15, 2014 to the property owners and
tenants of those properties within 100-feet of the subject site — see the attached radius map.
As of May 22, 2014, there were no responses to the public hearing notices.
RECOMMENDATION
It is recommended that the Planning Commission deny the appeal, and uphold the
Modification Committee's findings and decision, including the following conditions of
approval:
1. Only one double-sided monument sign with a LED message board on each side of the
sign shall be permitted. The maximum size of the sign shall not exceed 7'-1" in height
by 8'-6" in width. The applicant shall select its location (W. Duarte Rd. or Holly Ave.),
and if the sign is placed along W. Duarte Road it shall be located at least 200 feet apart
from the other signs. The location of the sign shall be approved by the Planning
Appeal of MC 13-26 & SADR 13-52
400 W. Duarte Road
May 27, 2014 — Page 5 of 7
Services Manager, or designee, prior to issuance of a building permit from Building
Services.
2. The digital display on the LED message board cannot change more frequently than
once a minute and may only operate between the hours of 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM, daily.
3. No videos, flashing or blinking, or moving images shall be permitted within a given
message per AMC Sec. 9262.4.3(C). Simple transitions between messages are
acceptable. An example of an acceptable transition would include, but not be limited
to: fading out/in or sliding in from a single direction. An example of prohibited
animations would include, but not be limited to: spinning, bouncing, dissolving, or
zooming animations.
4. 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,
Modification Committee, 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.
5. Approval of MC 13-26 and SADR 13-52 shall not be of effect unless on or before 30
calendar days after approval of this project, the property owner/applicant has executed
and filed with the Community Development Administrator or designee an Acceptance
Form available from the Development Services Department to indicate awareness and
acceptance of these conditions of approval.
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION
Approval of Appeal
If the Planning Commission intends to approve the appeal, the Commission should move to
find that the project is Categorically Exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act
(CEQA), and articulate the revised findings, and any conditions of approval.
Denial of Appeal/Uphold Modification Committee Decision
If the Planning Commission intends to uphold the Modification Committee's conditional
approval, the Commission should move to deny the appeal, state concurrence with the
Committee's findings, and uphold the Committee's decision and conditions of approval.
Appeal of MC 13-26 & SADR 13-52
400 W. Duarte Road
May 27, 2014 — Page 6 of 7
Alternative Action
If the Planning Commission wishes to approve a project that differs from both the
Modification Committee's action and the applicant/appellant's request, or deny the proposal
entirely, the Commission should articulate revised findings and/or conditions to approve or
deny MC 13-26 and/or SADR 13-52, and move for consideration of the alternative action.
If any Planning Commissioner, or other interested party has any questions or comments
regarding this matter prior to the May 27, 2014 public hearing, please contact Assistant
Planner, Jordan Chamberlin at (626) 821-4334, or jhamberlin@ArcadiaCA.gov.
Approved:
Jim ama
Co munity Development Administrator
Attachments: Aerial Photo with Zoning Information
Site Plan and Sign Chart
Photos of Existing Signs
Architectural Plans
Photos of Subject Property & Neighboring Properties
April 8, 2014 Modification Committee Staff Report
April 9, 2014 Notice of Modification Committee Decision Letter
Letter of Appeal — Dated April 14, 1024
Postponement Request Letter— Dated April 23, 2014
Appeal Clarification Letter— Dated May 13, 2014
Preliminary Exemption Assessment
100-foot Radius Map
Appeal of MC 13-26 & SADR 13-52
400 W. Duarte Road
May 27, 2014 — Page 7 of 7
Site Address 400 W DUARTE RD
Property Owner(s): CHURCH OF THE GOOD SHEPHERD
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August 5.IYPi ,
STAFF
REPORT
Development Services Department
DATE: April 8, 2014
TO: Honorable Chairman and Modification Committee
FROM: Lisa L. Flores, Planning Services Manager
By: Jordan Chamberlin, Assistant Planner
SUBJECT: MODIFICATION NO. MC 13-26 AND SIGN DESIGN REVIEW NO. SADR 13-52
TO CONSIDER THE FOLLOWING MODIFICATIONS AND DESIGN FOR TWO
NEW 7'-1" HIGH BY 8'-6" WIDE, DOUBLE-SIDED MONUMENT SIGNS WITH A
LED MESSAGE BOARD AT 400 W. DUARTE ROAD (DBA CHURCH OF THE
GOOD SHEPHERD UNITED METHODIST):
1. A TOTAL OF FOUR MONUMENT SIGNS (TWO EXISTING AND TWO NEW
SIGNS) IN LIEU OF THE MAXIMUM TWO MONUMENT SIGNS
PERMITTED ON A LOT (AMC SEC. 9262.4.6(c));
2. ALLOW THE TOTAL SIGN AREA OF ALL FOUR MONUMENT SIGNS TO
EXCEED THE MAXIMUM ALLOWABLE SIGN AREA OF 350 SQUARE
FEET (AMC SEC. 9262.4.6(d));
3. ALLOW THE NEW MONUMENT SIGN ON DUARTE ROAD TO BE
LOCATED WITHIN 100 FEET OF A RESIDENTIALLY ZONED PROPERTY
(AMC SEC. 9262.4.6(b));
4. ALLOW THE NEW MONUMENT SIGNS TO BE ILLUMINATED WITH A LED
MESSAGE BOARD IN AN R-3, HIGH-DENSITY MULTIPLE FAMILY
RESIDENTIAL ZONE (AMC SEC. 9255.1.4); AND;
5. ALLOW THE DISTANCE BETWEEN THE SIGNS TO BE LOCATED LESS
THAN 200 FEET APART (AMC SEC. 9262.4.6(c)).
Environmental Status: Categorically Exempt per CEQA Section 15311
Recommendation: Conditional Approval
BACKGROUND
The subject property is a 3.64 acre corner lot, zoned R-3 (High-Density Multiple Family
Residential). It is developed with a multi-story church, built in 1956, which is currently occupied
by the Church of the Good Shepherd United Methodist — see the attached aerial photo, and
photos of the subject property and neighboring properties. It is common throughout the City for
churches to be located on a residentially zoned property as they were permitted with a
Conditional Use Permit (CUP). The properties to the north and west are also zoned R-3. The
property to the south is zoned R-1 (Single Family Residential). The property to the east is zoned
S-2 (Public Purpose) and is currently occupied by Holly Avenue Elementary School.
Modification Application No. MC 13-26 & SADR 13-52
April 8, 2014
Page 2 of 5
S-2 (Public Purpose) and is currently occupied by Holly Avenue Elementary School.
Currently, the site has two monument signs for the Good Shepherd Church and two ground
mounted signs, each supported by two posts on a solid based, to promote the Church's nursery
school (refer to the sign table and site plan). In 1962, the corner sign was approved through a
modification to allow it to encroach within the special setbacks. The R-3 regulations allow a non-
illuminated identification sign, but electronic display on a sign is not typically allowed in the City.
However, consideration of an illuminated sign with an electronic LED display can only be
considered pursuant to a sign modification. This was the same process that was followed when
the Arcadia Masonic Center and Arcadia Chamber of Commerce received approval for its sign
with an LED display.
DISCUSSION
The proposal is to remove the nursery school signs and replace them with two larger doubled-
sided monument signs that are each 7'-1" high by 8'-6" wide with an LED display encased in the
sign. The LED display will be 1'-10" high by 7'-4" wide on each side of the monument sign. The
new signs will be within close proximity to the existing location, one on Duarte Road and the
other on Holly Avenue. The LED board will only display fixed or changing text that is in full color,
graphics, and background images, but no videos, motion or animated graphics are proposed.
The Church will not promote more than six (6) church activities and/or messages each day and
each message will change every five (5) minutes. The LED message board would only operate
between the hours of 6:00 AM to midnight, every day. The Church has also offered the City the
use of the LED electronic board in emergency situations as a way to communicate information
to the residents.
The proposed project requires approval of the following modifications:
1. A total of four monument signs (two existing and two new signs) in lieu of the maximum
two monument signs permitted on a lot;
2. Allow the total sign area of all four monument signs to exceed the maximum allowable
sign area of 350 square feet;
3. Allow the new monument sign on Duarte Road to be located within 100 feet of a
residentially zoned property;
4. Allow the new monument signs to be illuminated with a LED message board in an R-3,
Multiple Family Residential Zone; and;
5. Allow the distance between the signs to be located less than 200 feet apart.
The proposed modifications would allow for a total of four monument signs, two more than what
is allowed by code that will exceed the maximum allowable sign area of 350 square feet by 61
square feet. The total sign area of all four signs would be 411 square feet. The proposed signs
will also be located closer than 200 feet apart, and within 100 feet of a residentially zoned
property. Given that the proposed signs would be 17% greater than what is allowed by code,
significantly larger than the existing signs, illuminated and include a LED message board, and
adjacent to residential uses, it is recommended that only one double-sided monument sign be
permitted and that the overall size be reduced to approximately 6'-6" in height by 7'-6" in width.
The reasoning behind a smaller sign for the Church's property is because the church site
directly faces multi-family and single family residential properties. Also, the size and number of
signs would create visual clutter on-site and to the streetscape by creating a more commercial
appearance especially since continuing across the street on Duarte Road there is another
Modification Application No. MC 13-26 & SADR 13-52
April 8, 2014
Page 3 of 5
signs it would lessen the impact to the neighboring residential properties and preserve the
existing characteristic of the neighborhood. Staff also recommends restricting the sign area
given to the LED display from 2'-6" in height by 7'-8" in width to 1'-6" in height by 6'-6" in width,
and it is recommended that the messages on the LED message board be limited to the following
regulations which is slightly different from what the applicant proposed:
• The LED message board shall only operate between the hours of 7 AM to 10 PM, every
day.
• The message should not change more frequently than once every hour. This would
allow the message to change regularly without constant movement that could be a
distraction for drivers.
• Display only plain, text based messages (no background pictures) and limit the texts to
no more than two colors.
For comparison, the LED message board that was approved for the Arcadia Masonic Lodge on
Duarte Road is 1'-6" in height x 7'-6" in width and can remain lit throughout the day, but the
message cannot change more than once a day. As recommended, the revised sign would be
more in line with the other sign that is located on an institutional property in the City.
In regards to the distance between the signs, if the applicant selects the Duarte Road location it
is recommended that the sign shall be relocated to comply with code, and meet the minimum
distance of 200 feet between signs. The Engineering Division reviewed the proposal in regards
to potential impacts to traffic, parking design, and visibility, and determined that either location
for the signs would not create an impact.
Sign Design Review
The signs would be comprised of almond colored stucco for the body, the quoins and
architectural feature on top of the signs would be made out of high density foam painted almond
and dark brown. The letters and logo will be dark red and internally illuminated. With the
recommended conditions of approval, the signs will be compatible with the surrounding
neighborhood and consistent with the City's Architectural Design Guidelines for Commercial and
Industrial Signing.
ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS
The proposed project qualifies as a Class 11 Exemption for Accessory Structures from the
requirements of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) under Section 15311 of the
CEQA Guidelines. A Preliminary Exemption Assessment is attached to this staff report.
PUBLIC COMMENTS
Public notice of this item was mailed on March 28, 2014 to the owners of those properties within
100-feet of the subject site. Staff did not receive any public comments on this project from
residents.
Modification Application No. MC 13-26 & SADR 13-52
April 8, 2014
Page 4 of 5
RECOMMENDATION
It is recommended that the Modification Committee find that this project is exempt per CEQA
Section 15311, and conditionally approve Modification No. MC 13-26 and SADR 13-52, subject
to the following conditions of approval:
1. Only one double-sided monument sign with a LED message board on each side of the
sign shall be permitted. The overall height of the sign shall not exceed 6'-6" in height by
7'-6" in width. The LED message board shall not exceed 1'-6" in height by 6'-6" in width.
The applicant shall select its location (Duarte Rd. or Holly Avenue), and if the sign is
placed on Duarte Road it shall be located at least 200 feet apart from the other signs. The
location of the sign shall be approved by the Planning Services Manager, or designee,
prior to issuance of a building permit from Building Services.
2. The digital display on the LED message board cannot change more frequently than once
every hour and may only operate between the hours of 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM, daily. This
would allow the message to change regularly without constant movement that could be a
distraction for drivers.
3. The digital display on the LED message board shall be limited to text only and no more
than two colors. No dimensional graphics, background images, videos, flashing or blinking,
or moving animated images shall be permitted within a given message. Simple transitions
between messages are acceptable. An example of an acceptable transition would include,
not be limited to: fading out/in or sliding in from a single direction. An example of
prohibited animations would include, but not be limited to: spinning, bouncing, dissolving,
or zooming animations.
4. 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, Modification Committee,
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.
5. Approval of MC 13-26 and SADR 13-52 shall not be of effect unless on or before 30
calendar days after approval of this project, the property owner/applicant has executed
and filed with the Community Development Administrator or designee an Acceptance
Form available from the Development Services Department to indicate awareness and
acceptance of these conditions of approval.
Modification Application No. MC 13-26 & SADR 13-52
April 8, 2014
Page 5 of 5
Approved:
Lisa L. Flor_il
Planning Se'ices Manager
Attachments: Sign Table and Site Plan
Aerial Photo with Zoning Information
Photos of Subject Property & Neighboring Properties
Architectural Plans
100-foot Radius Map
Preliminary Exemption Assessment
0, 11--,,
a ir
4 ill 1 ,,, April 9, 2014
L`o ,,„,„„e** CalWest Lighting Services
�'41.4,ry orso' Attn: Nikki Gomez
11912 Woodruff Avenue
City of Downey, CA 90241
Arcadia Subject: Sign Architectural Design Review No. SADR 13-52 and
Modification Application No. MC 13-26
Project Address: 400 West Duarte Road
Development Dear Ms. Gomez:
Services
Department t111ent At its April 8, 2014, meeting, the Modification Committee voted 3-0 to
p conditionally aoorove Sign Architectural Design Review No. SADR 13-52 and
Modification Application No. MC 13-26, subject to the following conditions:
1. Only one double-sided monument sign with a LED message board on
Jason I nickeberg each side of the sign shall be permitted: The maximum height of the sign
Assistant City Manager/ shall not exceed 7'-1" in height by 8'-6" in width. The applicant shall
Development Services select its location (Duarte Rd. or Holly Avenue), and if the sign is placed
Director on Duarte Road it shall be located at least 200 feet apart from the other
signs. The location of the sign shall be approved by the Planning
Services Manager, or designee, prior to issuance of a building permit
from Building Services.
2. The digital display on the LED message board cannot change more
frequently than once a minute and may only operate between the hours
of 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM, daily.
3. No videos, flashing or blinking, or moving animated images shall be
permitted within a given message per AMC Sec. 9262.4.3(C). Simple
transitions between messages are acceptable. An example. of an
acceptable transition would include, not be limited to: fading out/in or
sliding in from a single direction. An example of prohibited animations
would include, but not be limited to: spinning, bouncing, dissolving, or
zooming animations.
4. 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, Modification Committee, 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
341)Wen Ht ainingron Drive
right, at its own option, to choose its own attorney to represent the City,
Pon Office Box 60021 its officials, officers, employees, and agents in the defense of the matter.
Arcadia,CA 91066-6021
(626)574-5415
(626)447.3309 Fax
wi ∎mci.arcaaia.ea.us
5. Approval of MC 13-26 and.SADR 13-52 shall not be of effect unless on or before 30
calendar days after approval of this project, the property owner/applicant has executed
and filed with the Community Development Administrator or designee an Acceptance
Form available from the Development Services Department to indicate awareness and
acceptance of these conditions of approval.
There is a five (5)working day appeal period for this application. Appeals must be submitted in
writing to the Community Development Division with a $540.00 appeal fee by 5:30 p.m. on
Tuesday,April 15, 2014.
•
This approval shall expire in one year(April 16, 2015) from the effective date unless a building
permit is issued and the construction is diligently pursued, a certification of occupancy has been
issued, or the approval is renewed. The final plans must be consistent with the approved design
concept plans and any conditions of approval. Any inconsistency from the approved design
concept plans may prohibit the issuance of a building permit.
A building permit must be obtained prior to any construction activity. Please contact Building
Services at (626) 574-5416 to determine the type of documentation, plans, and fees for the
appropriate permit. This approval letter must be presented to Building Services to initiate the
permitting process.
If you have any questions regarding the above approval, please contact Jordan Chamberlin,
Assistant Planner at(826)821-4334 or by email at jhamberlin©ci.arcadia.ca.us. Thank you.
Sincerely,
DEVELOPMENT SERVICES DEPARTMENT
Community Development Division i Planning Services
Jordan Chamberlin
Assistant Planner
c: Wayne Whitehill and Church Trustees, Property Owners
'34-1G.re
Church of the food ,hepherd
RECEIVED
APR 1 4'2014
NOTICE OF APPEAL Planning Services
April 14, 2014 City of Arcadia
To the City of Arcadia, Planning Department,
Attention: Lisa L. Flores, Planning Services Manager
Re: Modification No. MC14-26 and Sign Design Review No. SADR 13-
52 To Consider the Modifications and Design for Two New 7'1" High
by 8'-6' Wide, Double-sided Monument Signs With a LED Message
Board at 400 W. Duarte Road (DBA Church of the Good Shepherd
United Methodist)
Please take notice, that Applicant, Church of the Good Shepherd,
United Methodist, Arcadia, California, hereby appeals from the decision
of the Modification Committee rendered on April 8, 2014. Applicant
requests a hearing of the appealed issues to the Planning Commission
of the City of Arcadia as soon as practical.
Issues on Appeal:
1) The number of signs to be placed on the applicant's property.
Applicant/Appellant is requesting two double faced signs
permitted on the subject property.
2) The objection to approval of location of signs prior to issuance of
building permit.
400 West Duarte Road Arcadia, California 91007 Telephone(626)447-2181 •Fax(626) 447-5043
www.goodshepherdarcadia.org
Page Two, Notice of Appeal, Modification No. MC 14-26 and SADR 13-
52
3) The hours of operation of the messages. Applicant seeks to
display messages from 6:00 A.M to 11:59 P.M. daily.
4) The size of the area of the signs in terms of square footage
and inclusive of original dimensions of the LED portion.
5) The color of the signs.
6) The display of the signs.
7) The inadequate and untimely notice to the Church of the Staff
Recommendation.
Wayne Whitehill
Chairman, Board of Trustees
Church of the Good Shepherd
United Methodist, Arcadia, California
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tk
! APR 242014
Planning Senricea
City of Arcadia
April 23,2014
Jordan Chamberlin
Assistant Planner
Development Services Department
Community Development Division/Planning Services
400 West Huntington Drive
Arcadia, California 91066
Re: Sign Architectural Design Review No. SADR 13-52 and Modification Application No. MC 13-26
Dear Ms. Chamberlin:
On behalf of the Church of the Good Shepherd, I am requesting a continuance of the hearing of the
Church's appeal from the Modification Committee's decision of April 8,2014, from May 13,2014,to
May 27, 2014. Due to calendar conflicts we are unable to fully attend the Commission hearing. Thank
you for your attention to this matter.
Very truly yours,
Wayne W. Whitehill
Chairman of the Board of Trustees
Church of the Good Shepherd
400 West Duarte Road • Arcadia • California 91007 • (626) 447-2181 • Fax (626) 447-5043
4 qnna°
Or Club ilrlifirrtit
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- MAY 132014
NOTICE OF APPEAL
Nanning ing Services
May 13, 2014 City of Arcadia
To the City of Arcadia, Planning Department,
Attention: Lisa L Flores, Planning Services Manager
Re: Modification No. MC14-26 and Sign Design Review No. SADR 13-52 To
Consider the Modifications and Design for Two New 7'1" High by 8'-6'
Wide, Double-sided Monument Signs With a LED Message Board at 400 W.
Duarte Road (DBA Church of the Good Shepherd United Methodist)
Please take notice, that Applicant, Church of the Good Shepherd, United
Methodist, Arcadia, California, hereby appeals from the decision of the
Modification Committee rendered on April 8, 2014. Applicant requests a
hearing of the appealed issues to the Planning Commission of the City of
Arcadia as soon as practical.
Church of the Good Shepherd has not completed its preparation at this time
with respect to the issues, however, as to clarification our response is as
follows.
Issues on Appeal:
1) The number of signs to be placed on the applicant's property.
Applicant/Appellant is requesting two double faced signs permitted on
the subject property, one on Duarte Road and one on Holly Avenue as
per the plans and specifications.
400 West Duarte Road • Arcadia • California 91007 • (626) 447-2181 • Fax (626) 447-5043
Page Two, Notice of Appeal, Modification No. MC 14-26 and SADR 13-52
2) The objection to approval of location of signs prior to issuance of building
permit. If the commission approves two signs and the locations, it serves no
purpose to have someone approve location after issuance of the building
permit.
3) The hours of operation of the messages. Applicant seeks to display
messages from 6:00 a.m. to 11:59 p.m. daily — over and above the 7:00 a.m.
to 10:00 p.m. cut-off periods.
4) The size of the area of the signs in terms of square footage and inclusive
of original dimensions of the LED portion per the plans and specifications.
5) The color of the signs per the plans and specifications.
6) The display of the signs per the plans and specifications.
7) The inadequate and untimely notice to the Church of the Staff
Recommendation. Church of the Good Shepherd was not provided
adequate time to prepare.
Wayne Whitehill
Chairman, Board of Trustees
Church of the Good Shepherd
United Methodist, Arcadia, California
4st '"
!° !! PRELIMINARY EXEMPTION ASSESSMENT
fit ea-AA
�•
re. (Certificate of Determination When Attached to Notice of Exemption)
1. Name or description of project: Appeal of Modification Application No. MC 13-26 and Sign
Design Review No. SADR 13-52.
2. Project Location— Identify street 400 W. Duarte Road (between Holly Avenue and West Le Roy
address and cross streets or Avenue)
attach a map showing project site
(preferably a USGS 15' or 7 1/2'
topographical map identified by
quadrangle name):
3. Entity or person undertaking A.
project:
B. Other(Private) Cal West Lighting Services
(1) Name Domenick Acosta
(2) Address 11912 Woodruff Avenue
Downey, CA 90241
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: 15311 (Class 11, Accessory Structures)
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: May 15, 2014 Staff: Jordan Chamberlin, Assistant Planner
Preliminary Exemption Assessment FORM "A"
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