HomeMy WebLinkAboutSEPTEMBER 14, 2004
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MINUTES
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Arcadia City Planning Commissioo
Toesday, September 14,2004
7:00 P.OL in the Arcadia City Couocil Cbambel'll
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
The Planning Commission of the City of Arcadia met in regular session on Tuesday, September 14,
2004 at 7:00 p.m in the Arcadia Council Chambers of the City of Arcadia, at 240 W. Huntington Dr.
with Chairman Pro Tern Craig Lucas presiding.
ROLL CALL:
PRESENT:
ABSENT: .
Commissioners Hsll, Olson, Wen, Lucas
Commissioner Baderian
MOTION:
It was moved by Commissioner Olson, seconded by Commissioner Hsu to excuse Commissioner
Baderiail from tonight's meeting, The motion passed by voice vote with none dissenting.
OTHERS ATTENDING
Community Development AdminiStrator Donna Butler
Senior Plilnner LiSa Flores
Planning Intern Andrew Gonzales
Senior Administrative Assistant Silva Vergel
MOTION
It was moved by Commissioner Olson, seconded by Commissioner Hsu to read all resolutions
by title only and waive reading the full body of the resolution. The motion passed by voice vote
with no one dissenting.
SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION FROM STAFF REGARDING AGENDA ITEMS
None
TIME RESERVED FOR THOSE IN THE AUDIENCE WHO WISH TO ADDRESS THE
PLANNING COMMISSION ON NON-PUBilC HEARING MA TIERS (S MINUTE LIMIT PER
PERSON)
None
Chairman Pro Tern Lucas explained the public h~ngprocedures.
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}, . PUBLIC HEARING TPM 2004-006
126 Fano
K & K Development
Consideration of a tentative parcel map for a 3-unit residential condominium project.
The staff report was presented and the public hearing was opened.
Scott Chang; 11823 Slauson Ave" Santa Fe Springs, the civil engineer was present and said they are in
agreement with all of the conditions in the staffreport.
No one else spoke regarding this item,
MOTION:
It was moved by Commissioner Olson, seconded by Commissioner Hsu to close the public
hearing. The motion passed by voice vote with no one dissenting.
ROLL CALL:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
Commissioners Hsu, Olson, Wen, Lucas
None
Commissioner Baderian
MOTION:
It was moved by Cominissioner Hsu,seconded by Commissioner Olson to approve TPM 2004-
006 subject to the conditions in the, staff report.
ROLL CALL:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
Commissioners HsIi, Olson, Wen, Lucas
None
Commissioner Baderian
Chairman Pro Tern Lucas indicated that there is a ten-day appeal period. Appeals are to be filed by
September 24th.
2. PUBLIC HEARING TA 2004-003
David Sabin, Fiedler Group
Consideration of a text amendment allowing an automated self-service car wash in conjunction
with an automobile fueling station and convenience store.
The staff report was presented.
Commissioner Wen asked if the criteria for the minimum lot area and frontage were industry
standards, Ms. Flores responded that there are no industry standards for this specific use. As a result,
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staff Conducted a research from 20 different cities and in reviewing all cities standards, staff
determm.ed that the proposed minimum lot size of 25,000 square feet 'with a frontage of 150'-0" is
appropriate for this city. .
In reply to a question by Commissioner Hsu, Ms. Flores responded ,that there are no other automated
car washes in the City because the code currently does not allow this use .
In response to a question by Commissioner Lucas, Ms. Flores said that there are at least two sites that
meet the minimum criteria and could apply for a Conditional Use Permit and they are: I) Arco Service
Station at 625 W. Las Tunas Drive; and 2) Fasching's Car wash at 425 N. Santa Anita Avenue
The public hearing was opened.
Alex Cuevas, 2322 W. 3rd St., Los Angeles, representing the owner, said that-new fueling stations have
conyeniencestores and car washes. With the growing number of cities frowning upon having cars being
waShed at home, due to increased water disCharge and pollution, tliese types of facilities have become a
necessity. Their facility would be drive through.
No one else spoke in favor of or in opposition to this item.
MOTION:
It was moved by Commissioner Olson, seconded by Commissioner Hsu to close the public
hearing. The motion passed by voice vote with no one dissenting.
ROLL CALL:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
Commissioners Hsu, Olson, Wen, Lucas
None
Commissioner Bliderian
MOTION:
It was moved by Commissioner Olson, seconded by Commissioner Hsu to,recommend approval
of T A 2004-003 to the City Council.
ROLL GALL:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
Commissioners Hsu, Olson, Wen, Lucas
None
Commissioner Baderian
3. PUBUC HEARING GP 2004-001 and ZC 2004-003
Consideration of general plan amendments and zone changes to various properties providing
consistency between the City's General Plan and Zoning Map. .
The staff report was presented.
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tn response to a question by CoIrtmissioner Olson, Ms. Butler indicated that if the properties with the
PR-I zone were to be changed, the difference would be that any potential building could be constructed
closer to the property line. Code requires various setback and angle requirements as well as building
envelope and window locations for commercial buildings adjacent to residential. Buildings could
potentially be closer to the property iine, She explained that any commercial building over 20,000
square feet would require a conditional use permit when located adjacent to residential property. Also,
any development would be subject to architectural design review. There are no provisions to allow
modifications for a building to encroach into a PR-I zone.
Chairman Pro Tem Lucas though that they should discuss each different area one at a time:
The public,hearing was opened.
No one spoke regarding the Live Oak Corridor, Baldwin Corridor 4B, Colorado Corridor and Marendale
Subdivision.
Baldwin Corridor, Section 4A.
Jack Schmidz, 1153 A1tura Terr., said that his property backs up to Coco's restaurant. The parking
overlay was placed there to keep any commercial building from encroaching but changing the zoning on
this could potentially bring commercial buildings closer to the residential uses, The parking overlay
gave the residents the maximum protection while the zone change would not. Their property values
have increased and he did not want to see a commercial building 20' from his backyard. He wanted the
property to maintain the current zoning and said that they would object to any change that could
encourage a commercial building being closer to their homes.
Baldwin Corridor. Section 4B, indudiDl! tbe property at 650 W, Hnntimrton Dr,
Annick Dolonhower, 634 W. Huntington, did not want to change the zoning and feared that would
increase the density. Currently, there is a parking problem in the area and allowing a multiple-family
use at 650 W. Huntington Dr. would exacerbate the parking problem in the area. There are many older
units in this area that do not have ample parking so the parking overflows onto Huntington. In addition,
a multiple-family use would encourage rodents due to they type of waste, but keeping it as an office use
would'not because the waste is mostly paper.
Downtown"Corridor
Julia Sun, 217 S. Third Ave., objected to any change in the General Plan density along California,
Second Ave., Third Ave. and Bonita area because of the potential increase in traffic and noise. They
have approached the City Council and asked that something be done regarding the growth of the area
and the increased density and population.
Footbill and First Corridor
Jim Wright, 250 E Sycamore; said that they moved to this home due to the ambiance. Their home is
private and surrounded by other homes. They received this notice 3-weeks ago and are concerned about
any zone change that would disrupt their privacy and peace. He did not want Shakey's torn down for a
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Walgreen's, which appears to be a very tall building that would be constructed very close to the property
line. Currently, there is a parking lot behind the building but the plans for Walgreen's Showed a loading
dock in that same area as well as a drive-through window. They would have never purchased this
property had they thought this was possible.
He cited the following concerns, which included fear for his family's safety and security from vandalism
and vagrants, that are always seen in the alley behind Ralph's. The buildings would be too close to their
properties and would increase noise and ruin their privacy and view from their backyards. He felt that
there would be constant noise from the parking lot traffic, radios from cars parked in the rear lot, the
existence'and location of a drive-through window, which would force traffic to the rear parking lot, the
location of the loading dock and the constant delivery of goods, the loitering of people in the rear
parking lot.
Michael Ruyl, 307 E. Foothill Blvd., concurred with Mr. Wright. He objected to any change and said
that a portion of his property is zoned PR-I and if this was approved then his property would he zoned
, half residential and half commercial.
Ms, Butler checked and said that~.1r. Ruy!'s property is zoned residential. She noted that none ofhis
property is within the "P" overlay zone.
Ed Litty, 236 E, Sycamore, agreed with comments made by his neighbors. He admired how this was
presented to the Planning Commission. He thought this change would devaluate their property values
and he will be impacted. He was opposed to this change.
No one else spoke regarding this item.
MOTION:
It was moved by Commissioner Olson, seconded by Commissioner Hsu to close the public
hearing. The motion passed, by voice vote with no one dissenting.
ROLL CALL:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
Commissioners Hsu, Olson, Wen, Lucas
None
Commissioner Baderian
Commissioner Hsu commended staff on a thorough report. He was in agreement with all of the'
recommended changes with the exception of the parking overlay zone changes,
Commissioner Olson did not want to change the parking overlay zone unless there is a good reason for
it.
Ms. Butler remarked in regard to the properties in the Downtown Corridor they are zoned R-3,
Properties could be improved if they comply with code requirements. There is potential for change in
this area and they are finding that most of the time less units are being built. A brief discussion ensued
regarding the building at 650 W. Huntington Dr. and Ms. Butler briefly explained the City Council's
action on this item. She went on to say that in regard to the "P" overlay on Foothill Blvd" Walgreen's
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submitted plans for architectural design review: Walgreen's would require a conditional use permit
because of the drive-through.
Commissioner Wen commended staff's work on this project and agreed with Commissioner Olson. He
was in favor of many of the proposed changeS. He agreed that there should be consistency between the
General Plan and the zoning. He aSked how this would affect the schools and the population of the
City? He suggested continuing the public hearing to allow them more time to review this.
Ms. Butler replied that the City Council met with the School Superintendent and she did not think there
would be an impact from the residential development in the City and felt the school district could handle
the change, The PR-l zone impacts the location of any commercial building: If this zoning is removed,
commercial buildings could be constructed closer to the property line. The main reason for this process
is housekeeping and making sure that the General Plan and the zoning are consistent with one another.
She explained what could be constructed at 650 W. Huntington Dr.ifit was zoned R-3.
In answer to a question by Chairman Pro Tem Lucas, Ms, Butler said that the properties that are
inconsistent and are not being addressed tonight are City properties, These will be done at a later date,
She also c"l'lained that the proposed General Plan and Zone Change applications will require City
Council approval and will be forwarded to the City Council at the same time because they did not want
to hold separate hearings for ,each application. If the Planning Commission continues this discussion,
new notices will not be mailed.
MOTION:
It was moved by Commissioner Wen, seconded by Commissioner Olson to continue the
deliberation on the subject matter to November 9th.
ROLL CALL:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
Commissioners Hsu, Olson, Wen, Lucas
None
Commissioner Baderian
CONSENT ITEM
4. PLANNING COMMISSION DISCUSSION
Discussion regarding ArchitecturalDesign Review for Single-family residential projects,
The staff report was presented.
Ms. Butler indicated that the City Council would like to move ahead with this, although, there is no set
time line.
Commissioner Wen said this was a good document and commended staff.
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COnul1issioner Olson, was in agreement with Commissioner Baderian's e-mail; which was attached to
'the staff report, He liked the tiering approach. He liked option 3; which provides exceptions and
exemptions to the design review process.
Chairman Pro Tern Lucas preferred option 2 which required architectural design review on all new
construction, exterior alterations and/or additions, including window replacement.
Ms. Butler explained that'she was looking for the Planning Commission's recommendations to forward
to City Council. They can amend what has been proposed.
Chainnan Pro Tern Lucas said that he resides in a Homeowners Association and likes it. He preferred
that all items be reviewed by them. He preferred having a more comprehensive architectural design
review and was not in favor of tiering,
Ms. Butler asked about roofs and explained that currently each Homeowners Association has specific
roofing materials that they accept, At this time, there is no standard type of roofing material in the
remainder of the City.
Commissioner Lucas replied that the roof represents the largest feature of a home and to permit the
degradation of such major architectural component of the house would only invite problems. He
wanted this feature in the architectural design review.
Commissioner Wen favored option 2.
Commissioner Hsu liked options I and 2. Option I is for mandatory design standards in lieu of design
guidelines. He wanted specific standards incorporated into the codes.
Ms. Butler explained that option I is not widely used by other cities and diffictilt to write because it has
to be specific, otherwise it is not enforceable. Some cities indicate what is "acceptable" vs. what is
"appropriate". Also, staff can review some aspects, such as windows, over the counter. The
Homeowners Associations have two forms that they use; one that requiTes the signature of neighbors
and is relatively simple and one that requires a hearing. There is no doubt that architectural design
review would lengthen the process. The current architectural design review process gives staff 30
business days to review a project. Ifapproved there would be a need for-an additional planner because
with current staffing it would be impossible to absorb the increased humber of applications. Currently,
most homeowners do not come to the city for permits for window change outs, Option 2 would require
that all window change outs, shutters or small wallsand,fences be reviewed. The only way the City
would be aware of a violation would be if someone reported it but the City does not have the staff to
police this. She said the public would be informed of the new regulations by advertising it in the
quarterly newsletter,
Commissioner Hsu thought that this could encourage violators. Ms. Butler that these are strictly
guidelines and not specific regulations.
Commissioner Olson was concerned with having to get architectural design review for everything. He
cited an example of someone replacing a back door that was scratched by a dog. He did not think that
these types of improvements should be subject to design review. The type of architectural design
review for the north side of Arcadia has been in existence for many years and has been effective but the
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area in discussion is inconsistent in development; there are homes built in the 60s among newer built
. homes and homes with varying styles, He felt there is a better way of handling this without having to
put people through unnecessary delays and expense. He thought that requiring architectural design
review for new construction and additions is justified but when a homeowner replaces or repairs
something that should not be subject to review. He thought that architectural design review should be
required on anything that requires a building permit. Even though roofS require permits, ifit meets the
style of the house then it should not require architectural design review. Window change outs, repairs
and replacements should be excluded for architectural design review because it just does not make
sense to require it. To make things more complicated for simple improvements is notlogicaJ.
Ms. Butler remarked that the design guidelines would 'address what is appropriate for roof material.
This is a new process and she was not really sure what to expect. Staff may find that some review can
be done over the COtinter, This wilI be time consuming. Of course the guidelines may always be
amended if the process does not work well. She said thatthey find that many times there is a lack of a
true architectural style. Staff would like guidelines that provide flexibility, The purpose of the
guidelines is to promote compatibility and address mass and scale in relation to the neighborhood. She
explained the next step ani:! said that eventually a text amendment wOilld be prepared, which requires
public hea.rings before both City Council and Planning Commission. She said that the Planning
Commission should decide tonight whether there should be architectural design review or not and what
type of a review should be in place. The Planning Commission's comments will be forwarded to City
Council even if they are divided on some issues,
Chairman Pro Tem Lucas felt they should focus on the architectural design review process from the
enforcement point of view. He feared that some improvements would fall through the cracks if permits
were not obtained.
MOTION:
It was moved by Commissioner Olson, seconded by Commissioner Hsu that architectural design
review guidelines be forwarded to the City Council as set forth in the draft dated August 10th
with corrections as indicated,
ROLL CALL:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
, Commissioners Hsu, Olson, Wen, Lucas
None
Commissioner Baderian. '
MOTON
It was moved by Commissioner Olson, seconded by Commissioner Hsu, that the various
comments made tonight, including comment by Commissioner Baderian in his e-mail be
forwarded to the City CounciL It is the Planning Commission's recommendation that items
requiring building permits shall be subject to architectural design review. Architectural design
reviews are to be conducted by Development Services Department staff.
ROLL CALL:
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NOES:
ABSENT:
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Commissioners Hsu, Olson, Wen, Lucas
None
Commissioner Baderian
5. RESOLUTION NO. 1712
A resolution of the Planning Commission of the City of Arcadia, California denying CUP 2004-0 10
and ADR 03-035 to construct an approximate 11,800 sq. ft. preschool facility that would, also
provide after school tutoring at 2125 S. Baldwin.Ave.
MOTON
It was moved by Commissioner Olson, seconded by Commissioner Hsu, to adopt Resolution No.
1712 and to formally affirm the decision of August 10,2004 and the votes thereon,
ROLL CALL:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
Commissioners lL91, Olsol'., Wen, Lucas
None
Commissioner Baderian
Chairman Pro TemLucas noted that there is a five working day appeal period after the adoption ofthe
resolution. Appeals'are to be filed by September 22.
6. MINUTES OF 8110/4
Chairman Pro Tem said that the minutes should reflect that he came.in late to the study session.
MOTION:
It was moved by Commissioner Olson, seconded by Commissioner Wen to ,approve the Consent
item.
ROLL CALL:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
CommissionersHsu, Olson, Wen, Lucas
None
Commissioner Baderian
MATTERS FROM CITY COUNCIL AND PLANNING COMMISSION
Chairman Pro Tem remarked that the lights at the mall are garish and excessive,
MODIFICATION COMMITTEE MEETING ACTIONS
Commissioner Olson summarized the Modification Committee actions.
MATTERS FROM STAFF
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1, CITY COUNCil. ACTIONS
2, PLANNING COMMISSION AGENDA ITEMS
None
ADJOURNMENT
9:45 p.m.
/s/Donna Butler
Secretary, Arcadia Planning Commission
Arcadia City Plarming Commission
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