HomeMy WebLinkAboutMAY 10, 1994
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MINUTES
ARCADIA CITY PLANNING COMMISSION
REGULAR MEE'I1NG
Tuesday, ~ io, 1994
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Planning Commission proceedings are tape recorded and on file in the office of the Planning Division.
The Planning Commission of the City of Arcadia met in regular session on Tuesday. May 10. 1994 at 7:15 p.m. in the
Council Chambers of the Arcadia City Hall. 240 West Huntington Drive. with Chairman Tom Oark presiding.
pLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
ROLL CALL
PRESENT: Commissioners Daggett. Hedlund, Kovacic, Oarle
ABSENT: Commissioner Huang
MOTION
[t was moved by Col'lUJliSsioner Kovacic, seconded by Col'lUJliSsioner Daggett ,to excuse Commissioner Huang
from tonight's meeting. The motion passed by voice vote with none dissenting.
MATI'ERS.FROMSTAFF
A. Supplemental infonnation rega,'Jing agenda items
Donna Butler distributed a letter from the National Childhood Cancer Foundation withdrawing their
appeal. She also noted that the Col'lUJliSsion should vote to adopt the Minutes that were passed out and
not the one in the packet She indicated that the revised minutes include the names ofstaffin attendance.
Jim Kasama handed out information received from the applicant for the video game arcade. He stated
thanhe applicant had indicated that he wO,uld be unable to attend tonight's meeting. The applicant was
infonnedthat'itwouldbe his prerogative to n!Cjuest a continuance but he did not request one. He also
distributed several letter of opposition which were received after the staff report was ,prepared.
B. Modification Committee Meeting Actions
Ms. Butler recapped the Modlflcation Committee meeting actions.
C. Gty Council Actions
Ms. Butler gave a brief summary of the actions taken at the Oty Council's last meeting and the items that
were before them for consideration.
D; UJXOming Agenda Items
Ms. Butler announced the applications that have been filed and wiD be before the Commission as public
,hearings.
MINUTES
Minutes of the 4/11/94 meeting
MOTION
It was moved by Commissioner Daggett. seconded by Commissioner Kovacic to ,!pprove the minutes as
published. The motion passed by voice vote with none dissenting.
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OTHERS ATIENDING:
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City Attorney Michael Miller
Ass't Comm. Dev. Dir, Planning, Donna Butler
Assistant Planner James Kasarila
Secretary Silva Vergel
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PUBUCHEAlUNGS
1. PUBLIC HEARING CUP 94-005
Consideration of a conditional use pennit With parking modifications to allow a family amusement
game machine arcade with 20 game machines in a 900 sq. ft. retail space. The operating hours are 3:00 p.m.
to 10:00p.rn. Monday through Friday and 12:00 noon to 10:00 p.rn. on Saturdays. Sundays, Holidays'and
duringilcademicbreaks at 18E. Duarte Rd. (Michael Girgis, applicant).
The staff report was presented.
A brief discussion ensued regarding the actions that the Commission can take, since the applicant is not:present to
'answer any questions/comments from the Commission or the concerned citizens. Mr. Miller stated that the
Commission should open the public hearing and take testimony from the audience and then may chose to continue
the hearing.
[t was the consensus of the Commission to hear the testimony and after receiving all conunents. the Commission can
detennine what action to take.
The public hearingwa~. opened.
Melinda Samsing. 35 Christina, #A, spoke against the proposed CUP. She said the liquor store in.thearea had less
than 5 video gante machines and there were many problems at this location, which she attributed to the existence
of the game machines. There was graffiti, vandallsm. speeding down the alley, drinking and trash in the alley.
She noticed ,that once these games were removed, all the above mentioned activities ceased.
In response toa question by the Commission, staff, said the Police Department indicated their concerns with this
location and not necessarily with this particular use. Whiletl)ey felt that the applicant showed sincere effort in
policing the facility, that would not address their concern for the ongoing activities.
Anna Mae Troncale. 11 Christina, said she owns several properties that back into the alley and remarked there are
always kids there, who she thinks might be gang members, at ,the liquor store. There is quite a bit of,traffic there
and she was concerned what affect the proposed video game arcade store would have on the area.
Ron Collins. 39 Christina. submitted a petition against the proposed use and remarked that SOme of ~he signatures
we1'l1 from area business owners. He said the alley is poorly lit and the lights in the alley are from the residences
on Christina Strl!et and,said he would like to see lights in the alley. He complained about the traffic and speeding
down the alley.
Janet Trichie. 19 Christina, commented that ihereare gang fights in the alley all the time. There are several
problems such as vandalism. trash and broken glass and urinating in the alley. A lot of this negative activity
ceased after the games were removed from the liquor store and she feared the reoc:currence.of the trouble with the
proposed use.
In response to questions by the Commission, she remarked that many of the kids there are approximately 15 years
old or older.
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Chairman ClarIc noted that tIvI kilt Action Video, at.lhe comer of Duarte I Second. an! around 10;11 years
old.
Ms: Samsing commented tIvI difference between the subject site and the other video game arcade is the location,
This one backs up to an alley, which backs up to residential homes and the other is in a well Utshopping center.
Ronald Taylor, 14 E. Duarte, said his optical business is adjaceni to the subject location. He said he would be most
affected because he felt his clilmlele. who are elderly and younger kid~, would be intimated bylhe customers of the
video,store. He feared loss of customers which ultimately would lead to dosing,the business. He said when the
liquor store had a few machines, there were many problems and he was apprehensive of having 20 game machines
at this location. There was a c:ompu ter game store, in this area, which sold home computer games that attracted
many young kids. There were many problems associated with,their clientele such as the ones mentioned by previous
speakers. This store closed approximately two weeks ago and, since the closure. there have not been any problems.
Since there was no one else who wanted to speak regarding this item, the Commission reviewed its options on
whether to continue the hearing ouender a decision tonight.
Commissioner Hedlund state(\'that he was prepared to vote on this item tonight. He remarked that he was
concerned that the landscaping was deficient and not maintained. He did not, want to impose any conditions on this
particular applicant, because the property owner did not. maintain the site.
Commissioner Daggett sUggelteda continuance to allow theappUcant to make his presentation and rebut to the
concerns anddaiD\s,from,area residents; Commissioner Kovacic agreed.
MOTION
It was moved by Commissioner Daggett, seconded by Commisslone!' Kovacic to continue the hearing to the
Commission's May 24th meeting.
ROLL CALL
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
Commissioners Daggett, Hedlund, Kovaclc"Qark
None
Commissioner Huang
Chairman Oark noted that all the testimony received tonight would ,be taken into consideration at the next.
meeting.
Mr. Miller sUggelied forwariling the comments to the absent, Commissioner so he will be prepared to vote.
For the benefit of tIvI Commi!lsion. Commissioner Kovacic requested that staff provide the following information at
the next meeting:
1. A history of the activity from Action Vldeo;.I.e. po1lcereports, complaints, etC.
2. A comparison of the subject location VS' Action Video's site, as far as planning issues an! concerned.
3. A CUP gives the opportunity to Imposeconditions,tolmprovethe p.operty. Can this CUP have conditions
Imposed to Improve the shopping Center to comply with Code?
Commisslone!'Hedlund suggested discussing the parking situation to the above items.
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5/10/94
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2. PUBLIC HEARING SADR 93-039
Co,",sideration of an appeal of the Planning Division's denial ofa sign at 440 Eo Huntington Dr. (Nationa'
CJ; c'dhood Cancer Foundation, appellant>.
The appeal was withdrawn by the applicant.
TIME RESERVED FOR THOSE IN THI! AUDIENCE WHO WISH TO ADDRESS THI! PLANNlNC,COMMISSION
(NON'PUBUC HEARING). (FIVE MINUI'ETIME IJMlT PER PERSON)
None
CONSENT 1TI!MS
4. PARCEL MAP WAIVER
Consideration of a Parcel Map Waiver for a lot line adjustment at 403 W:PaIm Ave. (Leo Mauch, property
owner).
The staff report was presented.
Staff explained that the solid lines, indicate the existing setback and the dotted lines show the setbacks after the
10,t line adjustment No plans ha,,:,e been submitted for these sites.
MOTION
It was moved by Commissioner Daggett, seconded by Commissioner Kovacic to approve the Waiver of
Parcel Map.
ROLL CALL
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
Commissioners Daggett, 'Hedlund, Huang. Kovadc. Clark
None
Commissioner Huang
5. PlANNING COMMISSION DETERMINATION
Determination if minor vehicle maintenance activities are an 'inddental use for the car ,rental agency at
112 N. F"1rst Ave. (Mr. S. E. Kress. the Fleet Maintenance Manager for. Avis Rent.AoCar). '
Staff said they will only be able to do minor repairs at this site and no mechanical repairs will be pl!n1litted.
Commissioner Kowdl: was concerned that this might escalate into a mme involved project.
Chairman Oark did not think that would happen and.explained that a few blocks away thei'e are towing business
and 'vehicle repair shops and he did not think they would expand into that type of a use.
Ms. Butler a!lS1U'ed the Commission !hat this would be an incidental use and explained that Avis is the owner of the
vehicles and they will be servidng their cars. She said the businesses mentioned by Chairman (]ark are located in
theM-l zone, which isindustria1, the subject site is zoned C.2 (general commen:ial).
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In ,response to a question by Commissioner Daggett. staff explained that a Knox box would be required if they put up
a gate. This is a Fire Dept requirement and the only reason this would be imposed, at this time. is because they
are requesting a change, otherwise the Fire Department would not be in a position to ask for the Knox box.
MOTION
Itwa.s moved by Commissioner Hedlund, seconded by Commissioner Daggett that the applicant's request is
an acceptable inCidental use should be approved with the conditions listed in the staff report.
ROLL CALL
AYES:
NO~S:
ABSENT:
Commissioners Daggett. Hedlund, Huang. Kovadc, Oark
None
Co1lUnissioner Huang
MA1TERS FROM CITY COUNOL None
MATrERSFROMTIlEP~GCOMMlSSION None
ADJOURNMENT 8:00 p.rn.
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5/10/94
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There
was no
Planning
Commission
meeting on
April 26, 1994.
. MINUTES .
ARCADIA CITY PLANNING COMMISSION
REGULAR MEETING
Monday, April 11, 1994
Planning Commission proceedings are tape:recorded and on file in the office of the Planning Division.
The Planning Cornrriission of the City of Arcadia met ih regular session on Monday, April 11, 1994,at 7:15 P'rn. in the
Council,Chambers of the Arcadia City Hall, 240 West Huntington Drive, with Chairman Tom Oark presiding.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
ROLL CALL
PRESENT: Commissioners Daggett; Hedlund, Huang, Kovacic, Oark
ABSENT: None
MAnERS FROM STAFF
A. Modification.Committee Meeting Actions
Commissioner Hedlund recapped the Modification Cornrriittee meeting actions.
B. Upcoming Agenda Items
~. Butler announced that there will be no meeting'on' April 26th, because no' applications were filed. A
C.UJ>. has been filed for a proposed game machine arcade establishment at 18'E. Duarte Rd. She also
noted that the General Plan and Zone Change applications filed by the City of ElMonte for the Rodeffer
property were rejected, because it was deemed that the City of EI Monte did not have an "interest" in the
property.
Co Discussion of Planning Commission meeting time
Ms. Butler asked if theCommissiori would like to change the meeting time to 7:00 p.m. to be,conSistent with
the City Council's-meeting?
Chairman qarkpreferred ]laving the meeting at 7:15 and since the other members did not have a
preference,the meetings will continue to be at 7:15 p.m.
D. Supplemental information regarding agenda items
No supplemental information was distributed.
E.Update on City Council Actions
Ms. Butler informed the Commission of the City Council's last meeting. She said a "Transportation Issues
Paper" was presented to Council along with 2 r,esolutions. The Council determined the gas station at the
north west comer of Baldwin and Las Tunas is a public nuisance and ordered the abatement of it.
The Council approved Mr. D'Aquino's appeal of the Planning Commission's decision. The applicant
withdrew some of the requested modifications, including the deletion of the.fountain statue,in the from
the front yard. Ms. KOCh, representing the property owner to the east, of 182 W. Camino Real. claimed
that the,location of the mail box at the subject address is in a hazardous lOCation and obstructs visibility,
when trying to pull out of their driveway. Staff viSited the sight to investigate and found that there is no
visibility problems.
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Because of the above case, CounciI'requested an updated report on fences and gates in the front yard.
MINUJ'ES
Minutes of the 3/'22/94 meeting
COIpmissioner Daggett thought Councilman Lojeski's comment under "Matters FromCounci1" referred to the
Rodeffer property and the paragraph should be amended.
MOTION
It was moved by Commissioner Daggett, seconded by Commissioner Kovacic to approve the minutes as
amended. The motion passed by voice vote with nonedissenting.
OTHERS ATIENDlNG:
City Attorney Michael MiIler
Ass't Comm. Dev.Dir, Planning, Donna Butler
Assistant Planner James Kasama
Assistant Planner William Stokes
Manning Intern John Halminski
Secretary Silva Vergel
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PUBLIC HEARINGS
1. PUBLIC HEARING 'fM,Sl688
Consideration of a tentative map, for a 6-unit residential condominium project at 600-602 S..Third
Avenue (Tom Y.Lee, applicant>.
The staff report was presented.
In response to questions ,by Commissioner Kovacic, staff. Said that the applicant can build up to 7 attached units.
The applicant's proposal for.6 detached units, decreases the,density but requires modifications to allow aJO'
distance between buildings in lieu of the 20' standard, which the Commission hualready approved. It was noted
that this procedure is for the ownership of-t\:Ie units only.
The public hearing was opened.
Tom cao, 735 W. Emerson, Monterey Park, representing the applicant said they are in agreement with,all of the
conditions in the staff report.
No one else spoke in favor or in opposition to this item.
MOTION
It was moved by Commissioner Kovacic. seconded by Commissioner Hedlund to close the public hearing.
The motion passed by voice vote with none dissenting.
In response to questions by Commissioner Kovacic, Ms. Butler stated that detached units are often considered more
desirable by the buyer and explained that attached units usually require below grade parking, whereaS, the
detached uilits have on grade parking and are not as massive looking. She briefly explained the differences
between'the R-2 and R-3 zones.
COmmissioner Huang commented that this is a nice project and will enhance or the character of the area,
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MOTION
It was moved by Commissioner Huang, seconded by Commissioner Hedlund to approve TM 51688 subject
to the conditions in the staff report.
ROLL CALL
AYES:
NOES:
Commissioners Daggett, Hedlund, Huang, Kovacic, Dark
None
Chainnan Oark,noted there isa ten day'appeal period. Appeals should be filed by Thursday, April 20th.
2. PUBUC HEARlNG MC 94-013
Consideration of a height modification of 6'-0" to the top of block pillars and a decorative wrought
iron fence and 6'-6" to the top of (4) decorative lights in lieu of the 4'-0" maximum in the front yard at
2425 S. Third Ave; (TanunyNgo, owner). This item was referred by the Modification Committee.
The staff report was presented.
Ms. Butler said thatCounci1 has'not given'direction regarding fences and,gates in the front yard. They have asked
for the report prepared a few years ago and update on the present situation.
If approved, this would be the only house with ,walls, gates and lights measuring 6' high on this street The height
to the top of the lights would be 6'-6".
The public hearing was opened.
Tammy Ngo, 2425 S. Third Ave., the applicant felt the house would look nicer with the proposed gates and lights.
Commissioner Kovacic asked if there.was a purpose for her request; such as security or is the basis of her request
merely aesthetics? He,remarked that the burden of proof is on the applicant to justify why the Commission should
grant modification to the Code and approve the:request and he asked the City Attorney if he was correct?
Mr. Miller ,concurred with ,Commissioner Kovacic and said that it is the applicant's responsibility to provide
adequate:reason for approVal of the request.
Ms.Ngo replied by saying that the house is very large and 4' high walls would not blend in as well as the 6' high
walls.
Louise Parker; 2500 S. Third, said that'6' high walls in a neighborhood that only has 4' high walls, would stand
otitand benoticeable.
MOTION
It was moved by Commissioner Hedlund, seconded by Commissioner Daggett to dose the public hearing.
Themotion paSsed by voice vote with none dissenting;
Discussion ensued regarding the burden of proof and Mr. Miller said it is the responsibility of the applicant to prove
to the Commission to justify reasons for approval. 'The applicant should provide reasons that the project secures an
appropriate improvement, promotes unifonnity of development or prevents an unreasonable hardship.
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Commissioner Hedlund said that Is against anything in the front yard exc!ingthe 4' height requirement. The
home is large and approving the request would add to the mass.
Commissioner Huang said that he looks at two things in approving. this type of requests - the design and does it
offer an improvement and compatability with the neighborhood. In this case. the character of the neighborhood
plays a big role. especially since there,are no tall fencl~s/wal1s in the front yard.
Chainnan Clark was not in favor offences in the front yard and he thought that 4' would be adequate.
MOTION
It was moved by Commissioner Hedlund. seconded by Commissioner Daggett. to deny MC 94-013. and find
that the request would be excessive and not secure an appropriate improvement. nor, prevent an
unreasonable hardship. nor promote uniformity of development.
ROLL CALL
AYES:
NOES:
Commissioners Daggett; Hedlund. Huang, Kovacic. Oark
None
Chairman Clark noted there is a five working day appeal period. Appeals should be filed by Monday. April 18th.
TIMI! RESERVED FOR THOSE IN THE AUDIENCE WHO WISH TO ADDRESS THE PLANNING COMMISSION
(NON-PUBUC HEARING) - (FIVE MINUI'E TIMI! LIMIT PER PERSON)
None
CONsENT ITEMS
3. CERTIFICATE OF COMPUANCE94-QOl
Consideration of II Certificate of Compliance for a lot line adjustment at 374 W. Wistaria (Frimk
Epp. owner).
The,staffreport was presented,
MOTION
It was moved by Commissioner Daggett. seconded by Commissioner Kovacic to approve Certificate
of Compliance 94-001.
ROLL CALL
AYES:
NOES:
Commissioners Daggett. Hedlund, Huang, Kovacic, Oark
None
MATIERS FROM CITY COUNCIL
MAnERS FROM THE PLANNING COMMISSION
ADJOURNMENT
Arcadia City Planning Commission
4/11/94
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