HomeMy WebLinkAbout10-24-23 Agenda PacketCITY OF ARCADIA
Arcadia Planning Commission
Regular Meeting Agenda
Tuesday, October 24, 2023, 7:00 p.m.
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CALL TO ORDER
ROLL CALL
Vincent Tsoi, Chair
Marilynne Wilander, Vice Chair
David Arvizu, Commissioner
Angela Hui, Commissioner
Domenico Tallerico, Commissioner
SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION FROM STAFF REGARDING AGENDA ITEMS
PUBLIC COMMENTS (5 minute time limit per person)
Each speaker is limited to five (5) minutes per person, unless waived by the Planning Commission.
Under the Brown Act, the Commission or Board Members are prohibited from discussing or taking
action on any item not listed on the posted agenda.
PUBLIC HEARING
All interested persons are invited to appear at a public hearing and to provide evidence or testimony
concerning any of the proposed items set forth below for consideration. Separate and apart from
the applicant (who may speak longer at the discretion of the Commission) speakers shall be limited
to five (5) minutes per person. The applicant may additionally submit rebuttal comments, at the
discretion of the Commission.
You are hereby advised that should you desire to legally challenge in court or in an administrative
proceeding any action taken by the City Council regarding any public hearing item, you may be
limited to raising only those issues and objections you or someone else raised at the public hearing
or in written correspondence delivered to the City Council at, or prior to, the public hearing.
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1. Resolution No. 2137 – Approving Tentative Tract Map No. TTM 23-02 (82513) to subdivide
the airspace for an approved mixed-use development with four residential condominium units
and one commercial condominium unit at 405 S. 1st Avenue
CEQA: Exempt
Recommendation: Adopt
Applicant: First Arch LLC
There is a ten day appeal period. Appeals are to be filed by 5:30 p.m. on Monday, November
6, 2023.
2. Resolution No. 2136 – Allow a second drive-through lane and a parking modification at the
McDonald’s restaurant located at 143 East Foothill Boulevard
CEQA: Exempt
Recommendation: Adopt
Applicant: McDonalds’s Corporation
There is a ten day appeal period. Appeals are to be filed by 5:30 p.m. on Monday, November
6, 2023.
CONSENT CALENDAR
All matters listed under the Consent Calendar are considered to be routine and can be acted on by
one roll call vote. There will be no separate discussion of these items unless members of the
Commission, staff, or the public request that specific items be removed from the Consent Calendar
for separate discussion and action.
3.Minutes of the September 12, 2023, Regular Meeting of the Planning Commission
Recommendation: Approve
MATTERS FROM CITY COUNCIL LIAISON
MATTERS FROM PLANNING COMMISSIONERS
MATTERS FROM ASSISTANT CITY ATTORNEY
MATTERS FROM STAFF INCLUDING UPCOMING AGENDA ITEMS
ADJOURNMENT
The Planning Commission will adjourn this meeting to Tuesday, November 14, 2023, at 7:00 p.m.
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Welcome to the Arcadia Planning Commission Meeting!
The Planning Commission encourages public participation and invites you to share your views on City
business.
MEETINGS: Regular Meetings of the Planning Commission are held on the second and fourth Tuesdays of
each month at 7:00 p.m. in the City Council Chambers. A full Planning Commission agenda packet with all
backup information is available at City Hall, the Arcadia Public Library, and on the City’s website at
www.ArcadiaCA.gov. Copies of individual Agenda Reports are available via email upon request
(Planning@ArcadiaCA.gov). Documents distributed to a majority of the Planning Commission after the posting
of this agenda will be available for review at the Planning Services Office in City Hall, 240 W. Huntington Drive,
Arcadia, California.
CITIZEN PARTICIPATION: Your participation is welcomed and invited at all Planning Commission meetings.
Time is reserved at each regular meeting for those in the audience who wish to address the Planning
Commission. The City requests that persons addressing the Planning Commission refrain from making
personal, slanderous, profane, or disruptive remarks. When the Chair asks for those who wish to speak please
come to the podium and state your name and address for the record. Please provide a copy of any written
materials used in your address to the Planning Commission as well as a copy of any printed materials you
wish to be distributed to the Planning Commission.
MATTERS NOT ON THE AGENDA should be presented during the time designated as “PUBLIC
COMMENTS.” In general, each speaker will be given (5) minutes to address the Planning Commission;
however, the Chair, at his/her discretion, may shorten the speaking time limit to allow all speakers time to
address the Planning Commission. By State law, the Planning Commission may not discuss or vote on
items not on the agenda. The matter will automatically be referred to staff for appropriate action or
response, or will be placed on the agenda of a future meeting.
PUBLIC HEARINGS AND APPEALS are items scheduled for which public input is either required or desired.
Separate and apart from an applicant or appellant (who may speak longer at the discretion of the Planning
Commission), speakers shall be limited to (5) minutes per person. The Chair, at his/her discretion, may shorten
the speaking time limit to allow all speakers to address the Planning Commission. The applicant or appellant
may also be afforded an additional opportunity for rebuttal comments.
AGENDA ITEMS: The Agenda contains the regular order of business of the Planning Commission. Items on
the Agenda have generally been reviewed and investigated by the City Staff in advance of the meeting so that
the Planning Commission can be fully informed about a matter before making its decision.
CONSENT CALENDAR: Items listed on the Consent Calendar are considered to be routine by the Planning
Commission and may be acted upon by one motion. There will be no separate discussion on these items
unless a member of the Planning Commission, Staff, or the public so requests. In this event, the item will be
removed from the Consent Calendar and considered and acted on separately.
DECORUM: While members of the public are free to level criticism of City policies and the action(s) or
proposed action(s) of the Planning Commission or its members, members of the public may not engage in
behavior that is disruptive to the orderly conduct of the proceedings, including, but not limited to, conduct that
prevents other members of the audience from being heard when it is their opportunity to speak, or which
prevents members of the audience from hearing or seeing the proceedings. Members of the public may not
threaten any person with physical harm or act in a manner that may reasonably be interpreted as an imminent
threat of physical harm. All persons attending the meeting are expected to adhere to the City’s policy barring
harassment based upon a person’s race, religious creed, color, national origin, ancestry, physical handicap,
medical condition, marital status, gender, sexual orientation, or age. The Chief of Police, or such member or
members of the Police Department, may serve as the Sergeant-at-Arms of the Planning Commission meeting.
The Sergeant-at-Arms shall carry out all orders and instructions given by the presiding official for the purpose
of maintaining order and decorum at the meeting. Any person who violates the order and decorum of the
meeting may be placed under arrest and such person may be prosecuted under the provisions of Penal Code
Section 403 or applicable Arcadia Municipal Code section.
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(Arcadia Public Library) (www.ArcadiaCA.gov)
(Planning@ArcadiaCA.gov)
(City Hall, 240 W. Huntington Drive, Arcadia,
California)
“” (5)
(5)
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“”
403
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DATE: October 24, 2023
TO:Honorable Chair and Planning Commission
FROM:Lisa L. Flores, Deputy Development Services Director
By: Edwin Arreola, Associate Planner
SUBJECT:RESOLUTION NO. 2137 - APPROVING TENTATIVE TRACT MAP NO.
TTM 23-02 (82513) TO SUBDIVIDE THE AIRSPACE FOR AN APPROVED
MIXED-USE DEVELOPMENT WITH FOUR RESIDENTIAL
CONDOMINIUM UNITS AND ONE COMMERCIAL CONDOMINIUM UNIT
AT 405 S. 1ST AVENUE
CEQA: Exempt
Recommendation: Adopt
SUMMARY
The Applicant, First Arch LLC, is requesting approval of Tentative Tract Map No. TTM 23-
02 (82513) to subdivide the airspace of an approved mixed-use development that
consists of 585 square feet of ground floor retail with four (4) residential condominium
units at 405 S. 1st Avenue. The mixed-use development (Minor Use Permit No. MUP 19-
01, Tentative Tract Map No. TTM 18-06, and Architectural Design Review No. ADR 16-
25) was originally approved by the Planning Commission on February 12, 2019. However,
the Tentative Tract Map approval expired on March 9, 2022, before a Final Tract Map
application could be filed.
The proposed subdivision is consistent with the City’s General Plan, Development Code
and the Subdivision Map Act. It is recommended that the Planning Commission adopt
Resolution No. 2137 (Attachment No. 1) and find that this project is Categorically Exempt
under CEQA and approve Tentative Tract Map No. TPM 23-02 (82513), subject to the
conditions listed in the staff report.
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TTM 23-02 (82513)
405 S. 1
st Ave
October 24, 2023 – Page 2 of 8
BACKGROUND
The subject property is an 8,346 square foot, interior lot zoned Mixed Use (MU) with a
General Plan Land Use Designation of Mixed Use. The property is located on the west
side of S. 1
st Avenue just south of Downtown Arcadia between Diamond Street and El
Dorado Street. The site is surrounded by commercial properties zoned Mixed-Use (MU)
to the north, south, and east. Immediately to the west there are multi-family residences
zoned R-3 – High Density Residential Zone (refer to Attachment No. 2). Minor Use Permit
No. MUP 19-01, Tentative Tract Map No. TTM 18-06, and Architectural Design Review
No. ADR 16-25 were conditionally approved by the Planning Commission on February
12, 2019 for a three-story, Contemporary-style, mixed–use development with four (4)
residential units on the upper two floors and a 585 square foot ground floor retail area
that fronts S. 1st Avenue with compliant parking for all of the uses. Each residential unit is
two-stories tall with three (3) bedrooms and three (3) bathrooms. The sizes of the
residential units range from 1,601 to 1,700 square feet – refer to Figure 1 below for the
approved site plan and Attachment No. 3 for the Approved Architectural Plans.
A building permit was issued on January 26, 2021, and construction is almost complete.
The Final Tract Map was not filed prior to the March 9, 2022 expiration date, therefore the
map expired last year. The Applicant has refiled for a Tentative Tract Map so that the four
(4) residential units and commercial unit could be sold off individually as condominiums
(refer to Attachment No. 4).
As part of the new development, a 10-foot dedication will be granted to the City for
sidewalk purposes. As a result, the size of the lot will go from 8,346 square feet to 7,796
square feet, but even at the reduced lot size, the proposed project still complies with all
the development standards and minimum density.
Figure 1: Approved Site Plan for 405 S. 1
st Avenue
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TTM 23-02 (82513)
405 S. 1
st Ave
October 24, 2023 – Page 3 of 8
ANALYSIS
The MU zone requires a maximum density of 30 dwelling units per acre and maximum
Floor Area Ratio (FAR) of 1.0 for nonresidential development. The subject property
measures 8,346 square feet in lot area. However, as part of the Tentative Tract Map, a
10-foot dedication will be required along the property frontage, which measures
approximately 550 square feet, resulting in a new lot size of 7,796 square feet. The
approved project is required to meet the maximum density and FAR for the new lot size
after the proposed dedication is removed from the total lot area. This calculates to a
maximum density of five (5) units for the subject site and maximum FAR of 7,796 square
feet for nonresidential development; therefore, the approved four (4) residential units and
585 square foot retail space complies with the maximum density requirements and FAR
of the underlying MU zone.
There have been no changes to the approved project, applicable standards, or
environmental setting of the project that would negate its eligibility to be subdivided into
airspace for condominiums. Approval of the tentative tract map will allow the applicant to
move forward with the subdivision process to create the airspace for the four (4)
residential condominium units and the commercial condominium unit. The proposed
subdivision complies with the subdivision regulations of the Arcadia Municipal Code and
the State Subdivision Map Act. The proposed mixed-use condominium development will
be consistent with the City’s General Plan, Development and Subdivision Codes, and the
State Subdivision Map Act. The proposed plans were reviewed by the various City
Departments, and all City requirements shall be complied with to the satisfaction of the
Building Official, City Engineer, Deputy Development Services Director, Fire Marshal, and
Public Works Services Director, or their respective designees.
FINDINGS
Tentative Tract Map
The proposal to subdivide the airspace for the approved mixed-use condominium
development requires that it be subdivided through the Tentative Tract Map process –
see Attachment No. 4 for Tentative Tract Map No. TTM 23-02 (82513). The proposed
subdivision complies with the subdivision regulations of the Arcadia Municipal Code and
the State Subdivision Map Act, and the California Regional Water Quality Control Board
requirements. The following findings are required for approval of a Tentative Tract Map:
A. The proposed map, subdivision design, and improvements are consistent
with the General Plan, any applicable specific plan, and the Subdivisions
Division of the Development Code.
Facts in Support of the Finding: The proposed map and subdivision design are
in conformance with all of the provisions under the Subdivision Division of the
Development Code. The site is physically suitable for the type of development and
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TTM 23-02 (82513)
405 S. 1
st Ave
October 24, 2023 – Page 4 of 8
the approved development and proposed subdivision are consistent with the
character of the commercial corridor along S. 1st Avenue and the multifamily
residences to the west of this site. Thus, approval of the subdivision of the mixed-
use development is consistent with the Mixed-Use General Plan Land Use
Designation and the Mixed-use (MU) zoning of the site.
B. The site is physically suitable for the type and proposed density of
development.
Facts in Support of the Finding: The site was found to be physically suitable for
the mixed-use development when it was approved under Architectural Design
Review No. ADR 16-25. The Mixed Use (MU) zone allows both residential and
commercial uses on the site. Both uses would be in compliance with the
underlining density and maximum floor area ratio requirements. The mixed-use
development is also in compliance with the applicable development standards.
There are no physical impediments to the development of this site for residential
and commercial condominium development.
C. The design of the subdivision and the proposed improvements are not likely
to cause substantial environmental damage or substantially and avoidably
injure fish or wildlife or their habitat.
Facts in Support of the Finding: The proposed tentative tract map is for a
subdivision of an infill site. There is no protected aquatic or wildlife habitat on the
subject property. Therefore, the subdivision of the lot will not cause substantial
environmental damage or substantially and avoidably injure fish or wildlife or their
habitat.
D. The design of the subdivision or type of improvements is not likely to cause
serious public health or safety problems.
Facts in Support of the Finding: The proposed subdivision is for condominium
purposes. No portion of the land will be physically subdivided. The construction of
the mixed-use project will meet all Building and Fire Codes, all other applicable
regulations, and will not cause any public health or safety problems. Therefore, the
subdivision will not cause any serious public health or safety problems.
E. The design of the subdivision or the type of improvements will not conflict
with easements acquired by the public at large for access through or use of,
property within the proposed subdivision (This finding shall apply only to
easements of record or to easements established by judgement of a court of
competent jurisdiction and no authority is hereby granted to a legislative
body to determine that the public at large has acquired easements for access
through or use of property within the proposed subdivision).
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TTM 23-02 (82513)
405 S. 1
st Ave
October 24, 2023 – Page 5 of 8
Facts in Support of the Finding: The site design, subdivision, and all proposed
on-site and off-site improvements will not conflict with easements acquired by the
public at large for access through or use of, property within the proposed
subdivision. Moreover, a 10 feet dedication shall be provided to the City of Arcadia
for proper utilization of the parkway area for utilities and pedestrian access. Based
on the tentative tract map, there are no such easements on the subject property.
F. The discharge of sewage from the proposed subdivision into the community
sewer system will not result in violation of existing requirements specified
by the California Regional Water Quality Control Board.
Facts in Support of the Finding: The Arcadia Public Works Services Department
determined that the City’s existing infrastructure will adequately serve the
development, and the requirements of the California Regional Water Quality
Control Board will be satisfied.
G. That the proposed design and site improvements of the subdivision conform
to the regulations of this Development Code and the regulations of any
public agency having jurisdiction by law.
Facts in Support of the Finding: The proposed subdivision complies with the
density requirements of the City’s Development Code, and any improvements
required for the site and each unit will comply with the regulations in the City’s
Development Code.
ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS
It has been determined that the subdivision will consist of four of fewer parcels; will comply
with the General Plan and subject zoning, will not require any variances or exceptions;
access and services to proposed parcels will be maintained; the parcel has not been
involved in the division of a larger parcel within the past two (2) years, and the parcel
does not have an average slope of greater than 20 percent. Therefore, the subdivision is
exempt under Class 15 (Minor Land Divisions) pursuant to Section 15315 of the State
California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines. Refer to Attachment No. 5 for
the Preliminary Exemption Assessment.
PUBLIC COMMENTS/NOTICE
A public hearing notice for this item was posted at the City Clerk’s Office, City Council
Chambers, at the Arcadia Library, and on the City’s website on October 12, 2023. It was
also mailed to the property owners located within 300 feet of the subject property. As of
October 19, 2023, no comments were received regarding this project.
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TTM 23-02 (82513)
405 S. 1
st Ave
October 24, 2023 – Page 6 of 8
RECOMMENDATION
It is recommended that the Planning Commission conditionally approve Tentative Tract
Map No. 23-02 (82513) and find that the Map is Categorically Exempt from the California
Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), and adopt Resolution No. 2137, subject to the
following conditions of approval:
1. The Map shall be developed and maintained by the Applicant/Property Owner in a
manner that is consistent with the plans submitted and conditionally approved for
Tentative Tract Map No. TTM 23-02 (82513) subject to the approval of the Deputy
Development Services Director, or designee.
2. Prior to approval of the Final Map, the Applicant/Property Owner shall either construct
or post security for all public improvements shown on the Tentative Tract Map and the
following item(s):
Remove and replace existing sidewalk, curb, and gutter along S. 1st Avenue
from property line to property line.
Construct a new driveway approach per City Standard plan.
A 10’-0” wide dedication from property line to property line along S. First
Avenue shall be granted to the City of Arcadia for sidewalk purposes to
create a 40’-0” wide right of way measured from the centerline of the street.
The entire 10’-0” wide parkway shall be sidewalk. Any proposed private
sewer and drainage structures shall be placed on property behind the newly
established property line.
3. The Applicant/Property Owner shall be required to pay a $100 Map fee and $25 Final
Map Approval fee prior to the approval of the Tract Map.
4. Prior to occupancy, the Applicant/Property Owner shall repair any damages caused
by the development to the asphalt street frontages from property line to property line
including but not limited to trench cuts and construction traffic, per the direction of the
City Engineer. If the street is under the City’s pavement moratorium list, the repair may
extend from curb to curb, per the direction of the City Engineer.
5. The Applicant/Property Owner shall comply with all conditions of approval that are
applicable, as approved by the Development Services Department for the previously
approved Minor Use Permit No. MUP 19-01 and Architectural Design Review No. ADR
16-25.
6. The Applicant/Property Owner shall comply with all City requirements regarding
building safety, fire prevention, detection, suppression, emergency access, public
right-of-way improvements, parking, water supply and water facilities, sewer facilities,
trash reduction and recycling requirements, and National Pollutant Discharge
Elimination System (NPDES) measures to the satisfaction of the Building Official, Fire
10
TTM 23-02 (82513)
405 S. 1
st Ave
October 24, 2023 – Page 7 of 8
Marshal, Public Works Services Director, and Deputy Development Services Director,
or their respective designees. Compliance with these requirements is to be
determined by having fully detailed construction plans submitted for plan check review
and approval by the foregoing City officials and employees.
7. To the maximum extent permitted by law, Applicant must defend, indemnify, and hold
the City, any departments, agencies, divisions, boards, and/or commissions of the
City, and its elected officials, officers, contractors serving as City officials, agents,
employees, and attorneys of the City (“Indemnitees”) harmless from liability for
damages and/or claims, actions, or proceedings for damages for personal injuries,
including death, and claims for property damage, and with respect to all other actions
and liabilities for damages caused or alleged to have been caused by reason of the
Applicant’s activities in connection with Tentative Parcel Map Application No. TTM 23-
02 (82513) (“Map”) on the Map site, and which may arise from the direct or indirect
operations of the Applicant or those of the Applicant’s contractors, agents, tenants,
employees or any other persons acting on Applicant’s behalf, which relate to the
development and/or construction of the Map. This indemnity provision applies to all
damages and claims, actions, or proceedings for damages, as described above,
regardless of whether the City prepared, supplied, or approved the plans,
specifications, or other documents for the Map.
In the event of any legal action challenging the validity, applicability, or interpretation
of any provision of this approval, or any other supporting document relating to the
Map, the City will notify the Applicant of the claim, action, or proceedings and will
cooperate in the defense of the matter. The Applicant must indemnify, defend and
hold harmless the Indemnitees, and each of them, with respect to all liability, costs
and expenses incurred by, and/or awarded against, the City or any of the Indemnitees
in relation to such action. Within 15 days’ notice from the City of any such action, the
Applicant shall provide to the City a cash deposit to cover legal fees, costs, and
expenses incurred by City in connection with defense of any legal action in an initial
amount to be reasonably determined by the City Attorney. The City may draw funds
from the deposit for such fees, costs, and expenses. Within 5 business days of each
and every notice from City that the deposit has fallen below the initial amount,
Applicant/Property Owner shall replenish the deposit each and every time in order for
City’s legal team to continue working on the matter. The City shall only refund to the
Applicant/Property Owner any unexpended funds from the deposit within 30 days of:
(i) a final, non-appealable decision by a court of competent jurisdiction resolving the
legal action; or (ii) full and complete settlement of legal action. The City shall have the
right to select legal counsel of its choice. The parties hereby agree to cooperate in
defending such action. The City will not voluntarily assist in any such third-party
challenge(s). In consideration for approval of the Map, this condition shall remain in
effect if the entitlement(s) related to this Map is rescinded or revoked, at the request
of the Applicant or not.
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TTM 23-02 (82513)
405 S. 1
st Ave
October 24, 2023 – Page 8 of 8
8. Approval of Tentative Tract Map No. TTM 23-02 (82513) shall not be in effect unless
the Property Owner and Applicant have executed and filed the Acceptance Form with
the City on or before 30 calendar days after the Planning Commission has adopted
the Resolution. The executed Acceptance Form submitted to the Development
Services Department is to indicate awareness and acceptance of the conditions of
approval.
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION
Approval
If the Planning Commission intends to approve this subdivision, the Commission should
move to approve Tentative Tract Map No. TTM 22-03 (82513), state the subdivision
satisfies the requisite findings, and adopt the attached Resolution No. 2137 that
incorporates the requisite environmental, subdivision review findings, and the conditions
of approval as presented in this staff report, or as modified by the Commission.
Denial
If the Planning Commission intends to deny this subdivision, the Commission should state
the specific findings that the subdivision does not satisfy based on the evidence presented
with specific reasons for denial and move to deny Tentative Tract Map No. TTM 22-03
(82513) and direct staff to prepare a resolution for adoption at the next meeting that
incorporates the Commission’s decision and specific findings.
If any Planning Commissioner, or other interested party has any questions or comments
regarding this matter prior to the October 24, 2023, Planning Commission Meeting, please
contact Associate Planner, Edwin Arreola, at (626)-821-4334, or
earreola@ArcadiaCA.com.
Approved:
Lisa L. Flores
Deputy Development Services Director
Attachment No. 1: Resolution No. 2137
Attachment No. 2: Aerial Photo with Zoning Information
Attachment No. 3: Approved Architectural Plans
Attachment No. 4: Tentative Tract Map 23-02 (82513)
Attachment No. 5: Preliminary Exemption Assessment
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Attachment No. 1
Attachment No. 1
Resolution No.
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24347.00004\41737283.1
RESOLUTION NO. 2137
A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY
OF ARCADIA, CALIFORNIA, APPROVING TENTATIVE TRACT
MAP NO. TTM 23-02 (82513) TO SUBDIVIDE THE AIRSPACE FOR
AN APPROVED MIXED-USE DEVELOPMENT WITH FOUR
RESIDENTIAL CONDOMINIUM UNITS AND ONE COMMERCIAL
CONDOMINIUM UNIT AT 405 S. 1ST AVENUE
WHEREAS, on June 13, 2023, an application for Tentative Tract Map No. TTM 23-
02 (82513) (“Map”) was filed by First Arch LLC to subdivide the airspace of a mixed-use
development approved under Architectural Design Review No. ADR 16-09 and Minor Use
Permit No. MUP 19-01 that consists of 585 square feet of ground floor retail with four (4)
residential condominium units at 405 S. 1st Avenue after approval of Tentative Tract Map
No. TTM 18-06 (82513) subdividing the airspace of the mixed-use development expired
on March 9, 2022; and
WHEREAS, on October 5, 2023, Planning Services completed an environmental
assessment for the Map in accordance with the California Environmental Quality Act
(“CEQA”), and recommends that the Planning Commission determine the Map is exempt
under CEQA per Section 15315, Class 15 of the CEQA Guidelines because the Map is
considered a Minor Land Division; and
WHEREAS, on October 24, 2023, a duly-noticed public hearing was held before
the Planning Commission on said Map, at which time all interested persons were given
full opportunity to be heard and to present evidence.
NOW, THEREFORE, THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF
ARCADIA HEREBY RESOLVES AS FOLLOWS:
SECTION 1. The factual data submitted by the Community Development Division
in the staff report dated October 24, 2023, are true and correct.
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24347.00004\41737283.1
2
SECTION 2. This Commission finds, based upon the entire record:
A. The proposed map, subdivision design, and improvements are consistent with
the General Plan, any applicable specific plan, and the Subdivisions Division of the
Development Code:
FACT: The proposed map and subdivision design are in conformance with all of
the provisions under the Subdivision Division of the Development Code. The site is
physically suitable for the type of development and the approved development and
proposed subdivision are consistent with the character of the commercial corridor along
S. 1st Avenue and the multifamily residences to the west of this site. Thus, approval of the
subdivision of the mixed-use development is consistent with the Mixed-Use General Plan
Land Use Designation and the Mixed-use (MU) zoning of the site.
B. The site is physically suitable for the type and proposed density of
development:
FACT: The site was found to be physically suitable for the mixed-use
development when it was approved under Architectural Design Review No. ADR 16-25.
The Mixed Use (MU) zone allows both residential and commercial uses on the site. Both
uses would be in compliance with the underlining density and maximum floor area ratio
requirements. The mixed-use development is also in compliance with the applicable
development standards. There are no physical impediments to the development of this
site for residential and commercial condominium development.
C. The design of the subdivision and the proposed improvements are not likely to
cause substantial environmental damage or substantially and avoidably injure fish or
wildlife or their habitat:
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24347.00004\41737283.1
3
FACT: The proposed tentative tract map is for a subdivision of an infill site. There
is no protected aquatic or wildlife habitat on the subject property. Therefore, the
subdivision of the lot will not cause substantial environmental damage or substantially
and avoidably injure fish or wildlife or their habitat.
D. The design of the subdivision or type of improvements is not likely to cause
serious public health or safety problems:
FACT: The proposed subdivision is for condominium purposes. No portion of the
land will be physically subdivided. The construction of the mixed-use project will meet all
Building and Fire Codes, all other applicable regulations, and will not cause any public
health or safety problems. Therefore, the subdivision will not cause any serious public
health or safety problems.
E. The design of the subdivision or the type of improvements will not conflict with
easements acquired by the public at large for access through or use of, property within
the proposed subdivision (This finding shall apply only to easements of record or to
easements established by judgement of a court of competent jurisdiction and no authority
is hereby granted to the review authority to determine that the public at large has acquired
easements for access through or use of property within the proposed subdivision):
FACT: The site design, subdivision, and all proposed on-site and off-site
improvements will not conflict with easements acquired by the public at large for access
through or use of, property within the proposed subdivision. Moreover, a 10 feet
dedication shall be provided to the City of Arcadia for proper utilization of the parkway
area for utilities and pedestrian access. Based on the tentative tract map, there are no
such easements on the subject property.
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24347.00004\41737283.1
4
F. The discharge of sewage from the proposed subdivision into the community
sewer system will not result in violation of existing requirements specified by the California
Regional Water Quality Control Board:
FACT: The Arcadia Public Works Services Department determined that the City’s
existing infrastructure will adequately serve the development, and the requirements of the
California Regional Water Quality Control Board will be satisfied.
G. That the proposed design and site improvements of the subdivision conform to
the regulations of this Development Code and the regulations of any public agency having
jurisdiction by law:
FACT: The proposed subdivision complies with the density requirements of the
City’s Development Code, and any improvements required for the site and each unit will
comply with the regulations in the City’s Development Code.
SECTION 3. Pursuant to the provisions of the California Environmental Quality
Act (“CEQA”), this Map is a Class 15 Categorical Exemption as a minor land division per
Section 15315 of the CEQA Guidelines.
SECTION 4. For the foregoing reasons the Planning Commission determines
that the Map is Categorically Exempt under the California Environmental Quality Act
(“CEQA”) Section 15315, Class 15, and approves Tentative Tract Map No. 23-02 (82513)
to subdivide the airspace of an approved mixed-use development that consists of 585
square feet of ground floor retail with four (4) residential condominium units at 405 S. 1st
Avenue, subject to the conditions of approval attached hereto.
SECTION 5. The Secretary shall certify to the adoption of this Resolution.
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24347.00004\41737283.1
5
Passed, approved, and adopted this 24th day of October 2023.
________________________
Vincent Tsoi
Chair, Planning Commission
ATTEST:
Lisa L. Flores
Secretary
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
Michael J. Maurer
City Attorney
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Page Intentionally Left Blank
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24347.00004\41737283.1
7
RESOLUTION NO. 2137
Conditions of Approval
1. The Map shall be developed and maintained by the Applicant/Property Owner in a
manner that is consistent with the plans submitted and conditionally approved for
Tentative Tract Map No. TTM 23-02 (82513) subject to the approval of the Deputy
Development Services Director, or designee.
2. Prior to approval of the Final Map, the Applicant/Property Owner shall either construct
or post security for all public improvements shown on the Tentative Tract Map and the
following item(s):
Remove and replace existing sidewalk, curb, and gutter along S. 1st
Avenue from property line to property line.
Construct a new driveway approach per City Standard plan.
A 10’-0” wide dedication from property line to property line along S. First
Avenue shall be granted to the City of Arcadia for sidewalk purposes to
create a 40’-0” wide right of way measured from the centerline of the street.
The entire 10’-0” wide parkway shall be sidewalk. Any proposed private
sewer and drainage structures shall be placed on property behind the newly
established property line.
3. The Applicant/Property Owner shall be required to pay a $100 Map fee and $25 Final
Map Approval fee prior to the approval of the Tract Map.
4. Prior to occupancy, the Applicant/Property Owner shall repair any damages caused
by the development to the asphalt street frontages from property line to property line
including but not limited to trench cuts and construction traffic, per the direction of the
City Engineer. If the street is under the City’s pavement moratorium list, the repair may
extend from curb to curb, per the direction of the City Engineer.
5. The Applicant/Property Owner shall comply with all conditions of approval that are
applicable, as approved by the Development Services Department for the previously
approved Minor Use Permit No. MUP 19-01 and Architectural Design Review No. ADR
16-25.
6. The Applicant/Property Owner shall comply with all City requirements regarding
building safety, fire prevention, detection, suppression, emergency access, public
right-of-way improvements, parking, water supply and water facilities, sewer facilities,
trash reduction and recycling requirements, and National Pollutant Discharge
Elimination System (NPDES) measures to the satisfaction of the Building Official, Fire
Marshal, Public Works Services Director, and Deputy Development Services Director,
or their respective designees. Compliance with these requirements is to be
determined by having fully detailed construction plans submitted for plan check review
and approval by the foregoing City officials and employees.
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24347.00004\41737283.1
8
7. To the maximum extent permitted by law, Applicant must defend, indemnify, and hold
the City, any departments, agencies, divisions, boards, and/or commissions of the
City, and its elected officials, officers, contractors serving as City officials, agents,
employees, and attorneys of the City (“Indemnitees”) harmless from liability for
damages and/or claims, actions, or proceedings for damages for personal injuries,
including death, and claims for property damage, and with respect to all other actions
and liabilities for damages caused or alleged to have been caused by reason of the
Applicant’s activities in connection with Tentative Parcel Map Application No. TTM 23-
02 (82513) (“Map”) on the Map site, and which may arise from the direct or indirect
operations of the Applicant or those of the Applicant’s contractors, agents, tenants,
employees or any other persons acting on Applicant’s behalf, which relate to the
development and/or construction of the Map. This indemnity provision applies to all
damages and claims, actions, or proceedings for damages, as described above,
regardless of whether the City prepared, supplied, or approved the plans,
specifications, or other documents for the Map.
In the event of any legal action challenging the validity, applicability, or interpretation
of any provision of this approval, or any other supporting document relating to the
Map, the City will notify the Applicant of the claim, action, or proceedings and will
cooperate in the defense of the matter. The Applicant must indemnify, defend and
hold harmless the Indemnitees, and each of them, with respect to all liability, costs
and expenses incurred by, and/or awarded against, the City or any of the Indemnitees
in relation to such action. Within 15 days’ notice from the City of any such action, the
Applicant shall provide to the City a cash deposit to cover legal fees, costs, and
expenses incurred by City in connection with defense of any legal action in an initial
amount to be reasonably determined by the City Attorney. The City may draw funds
from the deposit for such fees, costs, and expenses. Within 5 business days of each
and every notice from City that the deposit has fallen below the initial amount,
Applicant/Property Owner shall replenish the deposit each and every time in order for
City’s legal team to continue working on the matter. The City shall only refund to the
Applicant/Property Owner any unexpended funds from the deposit within 30 days of:
(i) a final, non-appealable decision by a court of competent jurisdiction resolving the
legal action; or (ii) full and complete settlement of legal action. The City shall have the
right to select legal counsel of its choice. The parties hereby agree to cooperate in
defending such action. The City will not voluntarily assist in any such third-party
challenge(s). In consideration for approval of the Map, this condition shall remain in
effect if the entitlement(s) related to this Map is rescinded or revoked, at the request
of the Applicant or not.
8. Approval of Tentative Tract Map No. TTM 23-02 (82513) shall not be in effect unless
the Property Owner and Applicant have executed and filed the Acceptance Form with
the City on or before 30 calendar days after the Planning Commission has adopted
the Resolution. The executed Acceptance Form submitted to the Development
Services Department is to indicate awareness and acceptance of the conditions of
approval.
21
Attachment No. 2
Attachment No. 2
Aerial Photo Zoning Information
Photos of the Subject Property
22
Overlays
Selected parcel highlighted
Parcel location within City of Arcadia
Yes
Property Owner(s):
Lot Area (sq ft):
Year Built:
Main Structure / Unit (sq. ft.):
MU
Number of Units:
MU
Property Characteristics
1925
896
0
Property Owner
Site Address:405 S 1ST AVE
Parcel Number: 5779-001-019
N/A
Zoning:
General Plan:
Yes
Downtown Overlay:
Downtown Parking Overlay:
Architectural Design Overlay:N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
Residential Flex Overlay:
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
Special Height Overlay:
N/A
Parking Overlay:
Racetrack Event Overlay:
This map is a user generated static output from an Internet mapping site and is for
reference only. Data layers that appear on this map may or may not be accurate, current,
or otherwise reliable.
Report generated 19-Oct-2023
Page 1 of 1 23
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Attachment No.
Attachment No.
Architectural Plans
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
32
33
34
35
Attachment No.
Attachment No.
36
37
Attachment No.
Attachment No.
38
Preliminary Exemption Assessment FORM “A”
PRELIMINARY EXEMPTION ASSESSMENT
1.Name or description of project:Tentative Tract Map No. TTM 23-02 (82513) - A tentative tract
map to subdivide the airspace of an approved mixed-use
development that consists of 585 square feet of ground floor
retail with four (4) residential condominium units.
2.Project Location – Identify street
address and cross streets or
attach a map showing project site
(preferably a USGS 15’ or 7 1/2’
topographical map identified by
quadrangle name):
405 S. 1
st Avenue – The property is located on the west side of
S. 1st Avenue between Diamond Street and El Dorado Street.
3.Entity or person undertaking
project:
A.
B.Other (Private)
(1)Name First Arch LLC
(2)Address 501 S. 1st Avenue #F, Arcadia, CA
91006
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: 15315 – Class 15 (Minor Land Divisions)
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: October 5, 2023 Staff: Edwin Arreola, Associate Planner
39
DATE:October 24, 2023
TO:Honorable Chairman and Planning Commission
FROM: Lisa Flores, Deputy Development Services Director
Prepared By: Edwin Arreola, Associate Planner
SUBJECT: RESOLUTION NO. 2136 –ALLOW A SECOND DRIVE-THROUGH LANE
AND A PARKING MODIFICATION AT THE MCDONALD’S RESTAURANT
LOCATED AT 143 EAST FOOTHILL BOULEVARD
CEQA: Exempt
Recommendation: Adopt
SUMMARY
The Applicant, McDonald’s Corporation, is requesting approval of Conditional Use Permit
No. CUP 23-05, Architectural Design Review No. ADR 22-11, and Planning Commission
Administrative Modification No. PC AM 22-03 to add an additional drive-through lane next
to the existing drive-through lane and a parking modification to allow 29 parking spaces in
lieu of the 38 parking spaces required at 143 E. Foothill Boulevard. It is recommended that
the Planning Commission adopt Resolution No. 2136 (Attachment No. 1) and find this project
is Categorically Exempt under CEQA and approve Conditional Use Permit No. CUP 23-05,
Architectural Design Review No. ADR 22-11, and Planning Commission Administrative
Modification No. PC AM 22-03, subject to the conditions listed in this staff report.
BACKGROUND
The subject site is a 29,260 square-foot, interior lot that fronts E. Foothill Boulevard. The site
is zoned General Commercial (C-G), and is developed with a one-story, 3,293 square-foot
building with a 939 square-foot basement, an outdoor dining area with 32 seats, and a single
lane drive-through. The existing building was constructed in 1965 and it has been utilized as
a McDonald’s restaurant since it first opened. The drive-through was added to the restaurant
in 1981 under Conditional Use Permit No. CUP 81-1. The property is surrounded by the
Shoppes at Highlander commercial plaza to the east, north, and west which contains retail
stores, a restaurant, a supermarket, and other service uses. The properties to the south
across Foothill Boulevard are currently zoned General Commercial (C-G) and consist of
professional office uses. Vehicular access to the subject site is provided by an existing one-
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CUP 23-05, ADR 22-11, & PC AM 22-03
October 24, 2023
Page 2 of 14
way driveway on Foothill Boulevard and a shared access between the subject property and
the Shoppes at Highlander commercial plaza in the northwest corner of the property. The
subject property contains 38 parking spaces, of which 15 parking spaces are located along
the north side of the property and can only be accessed through the Shoppes at Highlander
commercial plaza. Refer to Attachment No. 2 for an aerial photo and photos of the subject
site.
Figure 1: Aerial photo of the subject site
PROPOSAL
The Applicant is proposing to reconfigure the rear portion of the parking lot to add an
additional drive-through lane next to the existing drive-through by removing parking spaces
that are located along the north property line to accommodate this additional lane. The drive-
through will only split into two lanes for ordering and then merge into one lane at the payment
and pickup windows. Nine (9) parking spaces would need to be removed in order to
accommodate the drive-through improvements for a total of 29 parking spaces, including
two (2) ADA spaces. Small pockets of landscaping will also be proposed along with the
drive-through improvements. Vehicles using the drive-through enter the site from a driveway
on the building’s eastern side off of E. Foothill Boulevard, travel around the rear of the
property, and exit via a driveway on the building’s western side. The capacity of the drive-
through would increase by an additional 3 vehicles for a total of 14 vehicles and allow two
vehicles to order at the same time. In addition to the drive-through and parking lot
improvements, a new trash enclosure will be constructed at the northwest corner of the
property. No alterations will be made to the building under the proposed project. A
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CUP 23-05, ADR 22-11, & PC AM 22-03
October 24, 2023
Page 3 of 14
conceptual site plan shows the proposed improvements, as shown in Figure 2. Refer to
Attachment No. 3 for the site plan.
The current hours of operation for the restaurant are from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., everyday,
and the drive-through hours are from 5:00 a.m. to 12:00 a.m., daily. There are no changes
proposed to the hours of operation under this application.
Figure 2: Proposed Site Plan
ANALYSIS
The drive-through improvements require the approval of a Conditional Use Permit. Any
changes to the site layout, including the addition of the second drive-through lane and
reconfiguring of the parking spaces, requires the approval of an Architectural Design
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CUP 23-05, ADR 22-11, & PC AM 22-03
October 24, 2023
Page 4 of 14
Review. The project also proposes a reduction of the onsite parking by 9 spaces which
requires the approval of a Planning Commission Administrative Modification.
Figure 3: Dual Ordering Screen Drive-Through
The installation of a second drive-through lane is in response to a higher usage of the drive-
through. Many fast-food restaurants have seen customers move from dining inside the
restaurant to utilizing drive-through facilities or delivery, especially with the increase in
mobile ordering. Customers utilize applications affiliated with the restaurant to place an order
and pay prior to arriving at the drive-through for quicker service through the drive-through.
Thus, this has caused a shift in the percentage of the customer base that uses the drive-
through. Specifically, this location has seen the percentage of customers that utilize the
drive-through increase from 63% of customers to 79% within the past two years. As a result,
the additional drive-through lane is to accommodate the increase in vehicles that utilize the
drive-through. The idea of having two ordering screens has been around for years with many
McDonald’s within the area already implementing dual ordering screen drive-throughs, such
as those seen in Figure 3 above. Additionally, all newly constructed McDonald’s and store
rebuilds have been employing this more efficient design configuration. These improvements
allow customers to place their orders earlier and reduce wait times.
The Applicant conducted a “Drive-Through Evaluation” to provide a better understanding of
how the dual drive-through lane layout would affect the property. The evaluation studied
three other comparable McDonald’s locations in Brea, La Palma, and South Gate during the
breakfast hours of 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. and the lunch hours of 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
These three locations were chosen due to the restaurants having a similar amount of
customers and a similar drive-through set up as the one proposed. The evaluation concluded
that the peak queuing length ranged from 9 to 14 vehicles for those locations. The proposed
drive-through would allow up to 14 vehicles to queue with a vehicle length of 25 feet for
each. The current drive-through can only accommodate up to 11 vehicles. Additionally, the
current and proposed drive-through contain two spaces beyond the pick-up window where
employees may deliver orders to customers should the capacity of the drive-through be
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CUP 23-05, ADR 22-11, & PC AM 22-03
October 24, 2023
Page 5 of 14
reached. For all other times, it is expected that the site will have more than sufficient space
to accommodate all anticipated drive-through traffic. Staff has observed the current drive-
through, and it is usually full stacked with cars on Foothill Boulevard trying to turn into the
driveway entrance during the peak times. The additional drive-through lane is expected to
alleviate such queuing. A copy of the Drive-Through Evaluation is included as an attachment
to this report (Refer to Attachment No. 4).
Figure 4: Parking Spaces to be Removed on the North Side of the Property
The site is not adequate in size to accommodate both the required amount of parking and a
second drive-through lane. Per the Development Code, a restaurant of this size requires
one parking space per 100 square feet of floor area and one parking space per every 6
outdoor seats, resulting in a requirement for 38 onsite parking spaces which the property
currently contains. The installation of a second drive-through lane requires the removal of
nine (9) parking spaces. For the reasons mentioned of the higher usage of the drive-through
and the ability to have your order delivered, in turn, there has been a reduction in the demand
for onsite parking. The parking spaces proposed to be removed are located along the
northerly property line and are only accessible through the Shoppes at Highlander
commercial plaza. This means that a customer would need to drive through the adjacent
plaza to park in these spaces, usually leaving them underutilized. Thus, the removal of these
spaces would not be detrimental to the parking demand for the site. Additionally, if a parking
capacity issue does arise, the availability of a drive-through, along with its proposed
improvements, would help alleviate the additional demand.
A parking survey was also conducted by the Applicant to further determine if the proposed
parking supply of 29 parking spaces will meet the demand at any given time. A parking
survey was conducted on Tuesday, May 2, 2023, at 30-minute intervals to show the amount
of parking that was being utilized. The parking study showed 15-18 spaces were occupied
between 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and 18 to 20 spaces being utilized between 5:30 p.m. and
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CUP 23-05, ADR 22-11, & PC AM 22-03
October 24, 2023
Page 6 of 14
6:30 p.m. At no point did the parking demand reach the current capacity of 38 parking spaces
and the proposed capacity of 29 parking spaces. In addition, the property contains an
existing bicycle rack for up to four bicycles. For these reasons, the proposed onsite parking
is expected to be sufficient for the anticipated demand. A copy of the “Parking Evaluation”
is included as an attachment to this report (Refer to Attachment No. 5).
Overall, the proposed improvements to the site would still allow for adequate circulation of
the site by vehicles not utilizing the drive-through and would be adequate in size to
accommodate the additional drive-through lane. The layout of the drive-through has been
designed in a manner that will not interfere with any pedestrian or vehicular access on the
property, the adjacent commercial properties, or within the public right-of-way. The site is
surrounded by a commercial shopping center and the nearest residential property is located
more than 200 feet away. Additionally, the proposed ordering board locations would face
north towards the commercial structures in the adjacent commercial plaza and would not
pose any noise concerns. The design of the drive-through will maintain compatibility with the
surrounding uses on E. Foothill Boulevard which consists of various commercial uses
including restaurants, retail stores, and offices and would be consistent with the City’s
Design Guidelines and all the applicable findings under Site Plan and Design Review. There
are no improvements or alterations proposed for the existing restaurant building on site.
Therefore, the architectural design of the building will remain unchanged.
FINDINGS
Conditional Use Permit
The Arcadia Municipal Code requires that for approval of a Conditional Use Permit, it must
be concluded that the following findings of fact can be made in an affirmative manner:
1. The proposed use is consistent with the General Plan and any applicable
specific plan; and is allowed within the applicable zone, subject to the granting
of a Conditional Use Permit, and complies with all other applicable provisions
of this Development Code and the Municipal Code.
Facts to support findings: Approval of the Project is consistent with the Commercial
land use designation of the site. The site is zoned C-G, General Commercial. Arcadia
Development Code Section 9102.03.020, Table 2-8, allows drive-throughs facilities
in the C-G zone subject to the review and approval of a Conditional Use Permit. The
Project complies with all the development standards of the C-G zone, and it is
consistent with the goals and policies of the General Plan. The Commercial land use
designation is intended to permit a wide range of commercial uses which serve both
neighborhood and citywide markets. The designation allows a broad array of
commercial uses, including fast food restaurants. Therefore, the Project is consistent
with the following General Plan goals and policies:
Land Use and Community Design Element
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October 24, 2023
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Policy LU-6.7: Encourage a balanced distribution of commercial development
throughout the City, ensuring that neighborhoods and districts have adequate
access to local-serving commercial uses.
2. The design, location, size, and operating characteristics of the proposed
activity will be compatible with the existing and future land uses in the vicinity.
Facts to support findings: The Project’s design, location, size, and operating
characteristics will be compatible with the existing and future land uses in the vicinity.
The property is located along E. Foothill Boulevard which is a commercial corridor
that includes retail uses, offices, restaurants, and banks. The Project will only alter
the existing parking spaces and drive-through and will not alter the existing restaurant
building. The restaurant currently operates from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., everyday,
with drive-through hours from 5:00 a.m. to 12:00 a.m., everyday. The drive-through
lane runs around the rear of the property and will allow sufficient space for the
proposed separate lane of circulation. Site and parking lot lighting has been
conditioned to have no light and glare at the property line. The site will therefore be
compatible with the adjacent commercial uses. The site has an adequate number of
parking spaces to accommodate the proposed use and its anticipated parking
demand, even with the proposed parking modification to reduce parking (see below
modification section). The drive-through lane, which can accommodate up to 14
vehicles, would also help alleviate any additional customers in any case where there
is unforeseen excess parking demand on the site. Therefore, the Project will be
compatible with existing and future land uses in the vicinity.
3. The site is physically suitable in terms of:
a. Its design, location, shape, size, and operating characteristics of the
proposed use in order to accommodate the use, site improvements,
loading, and parking.
Facts to support findings: The site is physically suitable to accommodate the
Project. The site currently contains a drive-through lane with a capacity for 11
vehicles. The Project would allow the drive-through to operate with two ordering
screens and increase the capacity of the drive-through by three vehicles. A
Drive-Through Evaluation provided by the Applicant indicates the 14-vehicle
capacity will be adequate to accommodate expected demand of customers
utilizing the drive-through. Although the site will provide less parking than the
38 parking spaces required by the Development Code, a Parking Evaluation
shows that the site will have sufficient onsite parking to meet the projected
parking demand and the proposed drive-through lane will absorb any additional
parking demand. Therefore, the site is suitable to accommodate the proposed
use.
b. Streets and highways adequate to accommodate public and emergency
vehicle (e.g., fire and medical) access.
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CUP 23-05, ADR 22-11, & PC AM 22-03
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Facts to support findings:The property is located on E. Foothill Boulevard,
which is designed with the capacity to accommodate both public and
emergency vehicles. All adjacent and nearby streets are adequate in width and
pavement type to carry the traffic that could be generated by the Project and to
support emergency vehicle access.
c. Public protection services (e.g., fire protection, police protection, etc.).
Facts to support findings: The Project will only be altering the drive-through
and parking lot. Conditions of approval have been included to ensure the
restaurant will be operated in a safe manner, and not impact public protection
services. The request has been reviewed by the Fire Department and Police
Department and no concerns were raised. Therefore, no impacts to public
protection services are anticipated.
d. The provision of utilities (e.g., potable water, schools, solid waste
collection and disposal, storm drainage, wastewater collection,
treatment, and disposal, etc.).
Facts to support findings: The Project will only be altering the drive-through
and parking lot and the site contains an existing restaurant building which can
be adequately serviced by the existing utilities. The request does not require
new construction on the existing building and any lot improvements will be
required to be constructed in a manner that will not impact the provision of
utilities. Therefore, no impacts to the provision of utilities are anticipated.
4. The measure of site suitability shall be required to ensure that the type, density,
and intensity of use being proposed will not adversely affect the public
convenience, health, interest, safety, or general welfare, constitute a nuisance,
or be materially injurious to the improvements, persons, property, or uses in
the vicinity and zone in which the property is located.
Facts to support findings: The Project and the type, density, and intensity of use
being proposed will not adversely affect the public health or welfare, or to the
surrounding properties. The site is surrounded by a commercial shopping center and
the nearest residential property is located more than 200 feet away. Additionally, the
proposed ordering board locations would face north towards the commercial
structures in the adjacent commercial plaza and would not negatively impact any of
the surrounding uses. Onsite lighting is conditioned to comply with the City’s lighting
standards and ensure that any potential light and glare shall terminate at the property
lines. The proposed drive-through improvements would be an appropriate
improvement for the surrounding uses and along this corridor of Foothill Boulevard.
Drive-through and Drive-up Facilities
According to Arcadia Development Code Section 9104.02.130, it states that the following
findings shall be made in addition to other required findings of the Conditional Use Permit
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CUP 23-05, ADR 22-11, & PC AM 22-03
October 24, 2023
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for a drive-through or drive-up business, in addition to standard findings required for
issuance of a Conditional Use Permit:
1. The proposed use complies with all requirements set forth for the issuance of
the required planning entitlement.
Facts to support findings: The proposed drive-through improvements comply with
all of the required development standards and departmental requirements required
for entitlement. The Project is permitted per Development Code Section 9102.03.020,
Table 2-8, subject to the approval of a Conditional Use Permit and is in compliance
with all the development standards of the C-G zone. The Project has been reviewed
by the various City departments and is suitable for the site.
2. The proposed use will not substantially increase vehicular traffic on any
street in a residential zone.
Facts to support findings: The existing McDonald’s restaurant is located on an
interior lot along E. Foothill Boulevard and is not adjacent to any residential zones or
streets, as it is surrounded by commercial uses. E. Foothill Boulevard is a commercial
corridor consisting of various retail stores, restaurants, offices, and banks. Therefore,
the proposed drive-through improvements will not increase vehicular traffic on any
street in a residential zone.
3. The proposed use will not lessen the suitability of any nearby commercially
zoned property for commercial use by interfering with pedestrian traffic.
Facts to support findings: The proposed drive through improvements will be fully
contained on site and will not interfere with any pedestrian traffic. The adjacent
commercial plaza will not have any of its pedestrian traffic impeded as most of the
commercial buildings in that plaza are located further to the north on that site with
parking for those commercial uses not being interfered by the proposed
improvements. Therefore, the suitability of those commercial uses will be maintained.
4. The proposed use will not create increased traffic hazards to pedestrians when
located near a school, place of worship, auditorium, theater or other place of
assembly.
Facts to support findings: The property does not abut a school, place of worship,
auditorium, theater or other place of assembly and the nearest such use is Foothills
Middle School, which is far removed from any potential impacts or traffic hazards from
the proposed drive-through improvements to this site. The improvements will solely
be focused on adding an additional drive-through lane to increase the capacity and
efficiency of the drive-through queue and no pedestrian access on private or public
property will be impeded.
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5. Adequate conditions have been applied through the required planning
entitlement to prevent adverse impacts on surrounding properties with respect
to noise, trespass, and litter control.
Facts to support findings: The Project has been reviewed by the various City
departments and conditioned to prevent adverse impacts to any of the surrounding
properties. The site is surrounded by a commercial plaza that is not expected to be
impacted by the proposed improvements and the nearest residential property is
located over 200 feet away from the site. Conditions have been added to ensure that
the new trash enclosure meets the City’s standards and that any light or glare
terminates at the property line for any new light fixtures.
Administrative Modification
According to Arcadia Development Code Section 9107.05.050, it states that an
Administrative Modification may be approved if at least one of the following findings can be
made:
1. Secure an appropriate improvement of a lot;
2. Prevent an unreasonable hardship; or
3. Promote uniformity of development
Facts to support findings: The Project is proposing to provide 29 parking spaces in
lieu of the required 38 spaces. The proposed parking modification will secure an
appropriate improvement of the lot because the existing drive-through can benefit from
improvements for an increased capacity in lieu of meeting the minimum parking
requirements per the Development Code. This location has seen the percentage of
customers that utilize the drive-through increase from 63% of customers to 79% within
the past two years, thereby only having 21% of their customers walk into the restaurant
to order food. Further, it has been determined that not all of the existing 38 parking
spaces on site are utilized. A parking evaluation determined that, at most, 20 parking
spaces were utilized by customers during peak hours. Therefore, although the site
would be deficient by nine (9) spaces, the proposed 29 parking spaces will not be an
issue as it will adequately serve the parking demand on site. The new drive-through
improvements would also be able to handle any unforeseen parking demand that
exceeds onsite parking availability. Therefore, a reduction in onsite parking from the
38 required parking spaces to the 29 spaces provided is not anticipated to cause any
potential impacts and would be an appropriate improvement for this lot in order to
accommodate the drive-through improvements for the increased drive-through
demand.
Architectural Design Review
The proposed drive-through improvements and parking lot layout are consistent with the
City’s Commercial Design Guidelines and all the applicable findings under Site Plan and
Design Review can be made since the improvements will not adversely affect the current
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CUP 23-05, ADR 22-11, & PC AM 22-03
October 24, 2023
Page 11 of 14
operations on the site, will not affect the surrounding uses, and are compatible with the
commercial developments along this portion of E. Foothill Boulevard. No improvements or
alterations are proposed for the existing restaurant building on site. This is solely a Project
to improve the capacity and efficiency of the existing drive-through for the McDonald’s
restaurant by adding an additional drive-through lane. The Project has been designed in a
manner that will not interfere with any pedestrian or vehicular access on the adjacent
commercial properties or within the public right-of-way. The design of the drive-through will
maintain compatibility with the surrounding uses on E. Foothill Boulevard which consists of
various commercial uses including restaurants, retail stores, and offices. Along with the site
improvements, pockets of landscaping will also be integrated into the parking lot. Therefore,
the proposed site improvements to the drive-through and parking lot are consistent with the
City’s Design Guidelines and all the applicable findings under Site Plan and Design Review.
All City requirements regarding disabled access and facilities, occupancy limits, building
safety, health code compliance, emergency equipment, environmental regulation
compliance, and parking and site design shall be complied with by the Applicant/Property
Owner to the satisfaction of the Building Official, City Engineer, Deputy Development
Services Director, Fire Marshal, and Public Works Services Director, or their respective
designees.
ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT
It has been determined that the project site is less than five (5) acres; the project site has no
value as a habitat for endangered, rare or threatened species; the proposed project will not
have any significant effects upon the environment, and the site can be adequately served
by all the required utilities and public services. Therefore, the project is exempt under Class
32 (In-Fill Development Projects) pursuant to Section 15332 of the State California
Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines. The project also qualifies for a Class 5
Exemption for a minor alteration to land use limitations pursuant to Section 15305 of the
CEQA Guidelines. Refer to Attachment No. 6 for the Preliminary Exemption Assessment.
PUBLIC NOTICE/COMMENTS
A public hearing notice for this item was posted at the City Clerk’s Office, City Council
Chambers, at the Arcadia Library, and on the City’s website on October 12, 2023. It was
also mailed to the property owners located within 300 feet of the subject property. As of
October 19, 2023, no comments were received regarding this project.
RECOMMENDATION
It is recommended that the Planning Commission approve Conditional Use Permit No. CUP
23-05, Architectural Design Review No. ADR 22-11, and Planning Commission
Administrative Modification No. PC AM 22-03, find that the project is Categorically Exempt
from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), and adopt Resolution No. 2136,
subject to the following conditions of approval:
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CUP 23-05, ADR 22-11, & PC AM 22-03
October 24, 2023
Page 12 of 14
1. The project shall be developed and maintained by the Applicant/Property Owner in
a manner that is consistent with the plans submitted and conditionally approved for
CUP 23-05, ADR 22-11, and PC AM 22-03, subject to the approval of the Deputy
Development Services Director or designee.
2. The drive-through shall not be open for business anytime between 12:00 a.m. and
5:00 a.m. of the following day.
3. The volume from the menu board shall not exceed the noise level for daytime and
nighttime hours per the City's noise ordinance. The volume shall be adjusted
accordingly to be sensitive to the adjacent uses at the discretion of the Deputy
Development Services Director, or designee.
4. All new exterior signage, including signage for the drive-through, shall be reviewed
and approved separately under a Sign Architectural Design Review Application.
5. For any new light fixtures, an exterior parking lot lighting plan and photometric
lighting analysis shall be provided with the electrical plans to plan-check in Building
Services. The parking lot light fixtures shall have a blank metal insert to ensure any
potential light and glare terminates at zero at the property lines. The style of the
parking lot lights shall be reviewed and approved by the Deputy Development
Services Director, or designee, prior to plan-check review.
6. The Applicant/Property Owner shall comply with the latest adopted edition of the
following codes as applicable:
a) California Building Code
b) California Electrical Code
c) California Mechanical Code
d) California Plumbing Code
e) California Energy Code
f) California Fire Code
g) California Green Building Standards Code
h) California Existing Building Code
i) Arcadia Municipal Code
7. The Property Owner/Applicant shall size the trash enclosure area accordingly. A
minimum of three bins/carts; one each for trash, recycling, and green waste/food
waste. For bins, there should be a one-foot clearance around each bin.
8. The Applicant/Property Owner shall comply with all City requirements regarding
building safety, fire prevention, detection, suppression, emergency access, public
right-of-way improvements, parking, water supply and water facilities, sewer
facilities, trash reduction and recycling requirements, and National Pollutant
Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) measures to the satisfaction of the Building
Official, Fire Marshal, Public Works Services Director, and Deputy Development
Services Director, or their respective designees. Compliance with these
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CUP 23-05, ADR 22-11, & PC AM 22-03
October 24, 2023
Page 13 of 14
requirements is to be determined by having fully detailed construction plans
submitted for plan check review and approval by the foregoing City officials and
employees.
9. To the maximum extent permitted by law, the Applicant/Owner must defend,
indemnify, and hold the City, any departments, agencies, divisions, boards, and/or
commissions of the City, and its elected officials, officers, contractors serving as
City officials, agents, employees, and attorneys of the City (“Indemnitees”) harmless
from liability for damages and/or claims, actions, or proceedings for damages for
personal injuries, including death, and claims for property damage, and with respect
to all other actions and liabilities for damages caused or alleged to have been
caused by reason of the Applicant’s activities in connection with CUP 23-05, ADR
22-11, and PC AM 22-03 (“Project”), and which may arise from the direct or indirect
operations of the Applicant or those of the Applicant’s contractors, agents, tenants,
employees or any other persons acting on Applicant’s behalf, which relate to the
development and/or construction of the Project. This indemnity provision applies to
all damages and claims, actions, or proceedings for damages, as described above,
regardless of whether the City prepared, supplied, or approved the plans,
specifications, or other documents for the Project.
In the event of any legal action challenging the validity, applicability, or interpretation
of any provision of this approval, or any other supporting document relating to the
Project, the City will notify the Applicant of the claim, action, or proceedings and will
cooperate in the defense of the matter. The Applicant must indemnify, defend and
hold harmless the Indemnitees, and each of them, with respect to all liability, costs
and expenses incurred by, and/or awarded against, the City or any of the
Indemnitees in relation to such action. Within 15 days’ notice from the City of any
such action, the Applicant shall provide to the City a cash deposit to cover legal
fees, costs, and expenses incurred by City in connection with defense of any legal
action in an initial amount to be reasonably determined by the City Attorney. The
City may draw funds from the deposit for such fees, costs, and expenses. Within 5
business days of each and every notice from City that the deposit has fallen below
the initial amount, Applicant shall replenish the deposit each and every time in order
for City’s legal team to continue working on the matter. The City shall only refund to
the Developer any unexpended funds from the deposit within 30 days of: (i) a final,
non-appealable decision by a court of competent jurisdiction resolving the legal
action; or (ii) full and complete settlement of legal action. The City shall have the
right to select legal counsel of its choice. The parties hereby agree to cooperate in
defending such action. The City will not voluntarily assist in any such third-party
challenge(s). In consideration for approval of the Project, this condition shall remain
in effect if the entitlement(s) related to this Project is rescinded or revoked, at the
request of the Applicant or not.
10. Approval of CUP 23-05, ADR 22-11, and PC AM 22-03 shall not be in effect unless
the Property Owner and Applicant have executed and filed the Acceptance Form
with the City on or before 30 calendar days after the Planning Commission has
adopted the Resolution. The executed Acceptance Form submitted to the
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CUP 23-05, ADR 22-11, & PC AM 22-03
October 24, 2023
Page 14 of 14
Development Services Department is to indicate awareness and acceptance of the
conditions of approval.
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION
Approval
If the Planning Commission intends to approve this project, the Commission should move to
approve Conditional Use Permit No. CUP 23-05, Architectural Design Review No. ADR 22-
11, and Planning Commission Administrative Modification No. PC AM 22-03, state that the
proposal satisfies the requisite findings, and adopt the attached Resolution No. 2136 that
incorporates the requisite environmental and subdivision findings, and the conditions of
approval as presented in this staff report, or as modified by the Commission.
Denial
If the Planning Commission is to deny this project, the Commission should state the specific
findings that the proposal does not satisfy based on the evidence presented with specific
reasons for denial, and move to deny Conditional Use Permit No. CUP 23-05, Architectural
Design Review No. ADR 22-11, and Planning Commission Administrative Modification No.
PC AM 22-03 and direct staff to prepare a resolution for adoption at the next meeting that
incorporates the Commission’s decision and specific findings.
If any Planning Commissioner, or other interested party has any questions or comments
regarding this matter prior to the October 24, 2023, Planning Commission Meeting, please
contact Associate Planner, Edwin Arreola at (626) 821-4334, or earreola@ArcadiaCA.gov.
Approved:
Lisa L. Flores
Deputy Development Services Director
Attachment No. 1: Resolution No. 2136
Attachment No. 2: Aerial Photo with Zoning Information and Photos of the Subject
Property and Vicinity
Attachment No. 3: Site Plan
Attachment No. 4: Drive-Through Evaluation
Attachment No. 5: Parking Evaluation
Attachment No. 6: Preliminary Exemption Assessment
53
Attachment No. 1
Attachment No. 1
Resolution No. 2
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RESOLUTION NO. 2136
A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF
ARCADIA, CALIFORNIA, APPROVING CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT NO.
CUP 23-05, ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN REVIEW NO. ADR 22-11, AND
PLANNING COMMISSION ADMINISTRATIVE MODIFICATION NO. PC
AM 22-03 TO ALLOW A SECOND DRIVE-THROUGH LANE AND A
PARKING MODIFICATION AT THE MCDONALD’S RESTAURANT
LOCATED AT 143 EAST FOOTHILL BOULEVARD
WHEREAS, on September 26, 2022, applications for Planning Commission
Administrative Modification No. PC AM 22-03 and Architectural Design Review No. ADR
22-11, and on June 28, 2023 an application for Conditional Use Permit No. CUP 23-05,
were filed by McDonald’s Corporation to add an additional drive-through lane next to the
existing drive-through lane and a parking modification to allow 29 parking spaces in lieu
of the 38 parking spaces required at 143 E. Foothill Boulevard (“Project”); and
WHEREAS, on October 5, 2023, Planning Services completed an environmental
assessment for the Project in accordance with the California Environmental Quality Act
(“CEQA”), and recommends that the Planning Commission determine the Project is
exempt under CEQA per Section 15305 of the CEQA Guidelines for a minor alteration to
land use limitations, and Section 15332 of the CEQA Guidelines because the Project is
considered an in-fill development project; and
WHEREAS, on October 24, 2023, a duly-noticed public hearing was held before
the Planning Commission on said Project, at which time all interested persons were given
full opportunity to be heard and to present evidence.
NOW, THEREFORE, THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF
ARCADIA HEREBY RESOLVES AS FOLLOWS:
SECTION 1. The factual data submitted by the Community Development Division
in the staff report dated October 24, 2023, are true and correct.
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2
SECTION 2. This Commission finds, based upon the entire record:
Conditional Use Permit
1. The proposed use is consistent with the General Plan and any applicable
specific plan; and is allowed within the applicable zone, subject to the granting of a
Conditional Use Permit, and complies with all other applicable provisions of this
Development Code and the Municipal Code.
FACT: Approval of the Project is consistent with the Commercial land use
designation of the site. The site is zoned C-G, General Commercial. Arcadia Development
Code Section 9102.03.020, Table 2-8, allows drive-through facilities in the C-G zone
subject to the review and approval of a Conditional Use Permit. The Project complies with
all the development standards of the C-G zone, and it is consistent with the goals and
policies of the General Plan. The Commercial land use designation is intended to permit
a wide range of commercial uses which serve both neighborhood and citywide markets.
The designation allows a broad array of commercial uses, including fast food restaurants.
Therefore, the Project is consistent with the following General Plan goals and policies:
Land Use and Community Design Element
Policy LU-6.7: Encourage a balanced distribution of commercial development
throughout the City, ensuring that neighborhoods and districts have adequate
access to local-serving commercial uses.
2. The design, location, size, and operating characteristics of the proposed
activity will be compatible with the existing and future land uses in the vicinity.
FACT: The Project’s design, location, size, and operating characteristics will be
compatible with the existing and future land uses in the vicinity. The property is located
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3
along E. Foothill Boulevard which is a commercial corridor that includes retail uses,
offices, restaurants, and banks. The Project will only alter the existing parking spaces and
drive-through and will not alter the existing restaurant building. The restaurant currently
operates from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., everyday, with drive-through hours from 5:00 a.m.
to 12:00 a.m., everyday. The drive-through lane runs around the rear of the property and
will allow sufficient space for the proposed separate lane of circulation. Site and parking
lot lighting has been conditioned to have no light and glare at the property line. The site
will therefore be compatible with the adjacent commercial uses. The site has an adequate
number of parking spaces to accommodate the proposed use and its anticipated parking
demand, even with the proposed parking modification to reduce parking (see below
modification section). The drive-through lane, which can accommodate up to 14 vehicles,
would also help alleviate any additional customers in any case where there is unforeseen
excess parking demand on the site. Therefore, the Project will be compatible with existing
and future land uses in the vicinity.
3. The site is physically suitable in terms of:
a. Its design, location, shape, size, and operating characteristics of the proposed
use in order to accommodate the use, site improvements, loading, and parking;
FACT: The site is physically suitable to accommodate the Project. The site
currently contains a drive-through lane with a capacity for 11 vehicles. The Project would
allow the drive-through to operate with two ordering screens and increase the capacity of
the drive-through by three vehicles. A Drive-Through Evaluation provided by the Applicant
indicates the 14-vehicle capacity will be adequate to accommodate expected demand of
customers utilizing the drive-through. Although the site will provide less parking than the
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4
38 parking spaces required by the Development Code, a Parking Evaluation shows that
the site will have sufficient onsite parking to meet the projected parking demand and the
proposed drive-through lane will absorb any additional parking demand. Therefore, the
site is suitable to accommodate the Project.
B. Streets and highways adequate to accommodate public and emergency
vehicle (e.g., fire and medical) access;
FACT: The property is located on E. Foothill Boulevard, which is designed with the
capacity to accommodate both public and emergency vehicles. All adjacent and nearby
streets are adequate in width and pavement type to carry the traffic that could be
generated by the Project and to support emergency vehicle access.
C. Public protection services (e.g., fire protection, police protection, etc.).
FACT: The Project will only be altering the drive-through and parking lot.
Conditions of approval have been included to ensure the restaurant will be operated in a
safe manner, and not impact public protection services. The Project has been reviewed
by the Fire Department and Police Department and no concerns were raised. Therefore,
no impacts to public protection services are anticipated.
D. The provision of utilities (e.g., potable water, schools, solid waste collection
and disposal, storm drainage, wastewater collection, treatment, and disposal, etc.).
FACT: The Project will only be altering the drive-through and parking lot and the
site contains an existing restaurant building which can be adequately serviced by the
existing utilities. The Project does not require new construction on the existing building
and any lot improvements will be required to be constructed in a manner that will not
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5
impact the provision of utilities. Therefore, no impacts to the provision of utilities are
anticipated.
4. The measure of site suitability shall be required to ensure that the type,
density, and intensity of use being proposed will not adversely affect the public
convenience, health, interest, safety, or general welfare, constitute a nuisance, or be
materially injurious to the improvements, persons, property, or uses in the vicinity and
zone in which the property is located.
FACT: The Project and the type, density, and intensity of use being proposed will
not adversely affect the public health or welfare, or to the surrounding properties. The site
is surrounded by a commercial shopping center and the nearest residential property is
located more than 200 feet away. Additionally, the proposed ordering board locations
would face north towards the commercial structures in the adjacent commercial plaza and
would not negatively impact any of the surrounding uses. Onsite lighting is conditioned to
comply with the City’s lighting standards and ensure that any potential light and glare shall
terminate at the property lines. The Project would be an appropriate improvement for the
surrounding uses and along this corridor of Foothill Boulevard.
Drive-through and Drive-up Facilities
The Project meets the requirements of Development Code Section
9104.02.130 regarding drive-through and drive-up facilities.
1. The proposed use complies with all requirements set forth for the issuance of
the required planning entitlement.
FACT: The Project complies with all of the required development standards and
departmental requirements required for entitlement. The Project is permitted per
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6
Development Code Section 9102.03.020, Table 2-8, subject to the approval of a
Conditional Use Permit and is in compliance with all the development standards of the C-
G zone. The Project has been reviewed by the various City departments and is suitable
for the site.
2. The proposed use will not substantially increase vehicular traffic on any street
in a residential zone.
FACT: The existing McDonald’s restaurant is located on an interior lot along E.
Foothill Boulevard and is not adjacent to any residential zones or streets, as it is
surrounded by commercial uses. E. Foothill Boulevard is a commercial corridor consisting
of various retail stores, restaurants, offices, and banks. Therefore, the Project will not
increase vehicular traffic on any street in a residential zone.
3. The proposed use will not lessen the suitability of any nearby commercially
zoned property for commercial use by interfering with pedestrian traffic.
FACT: The Project will be fully contained on site and will not interfere with any
pedestrian traffic. The adjacent commercial plaza will not have any of its pedestrian traffic
impeded as most of the commercial buildings in that plaza are located further to the north
on that site with parking for those commercial uses not being interfered by the Project.
Therefore, the suitability of those commercial uses will be maintained.
4. The proposed use will not create increased traffic hazards to pedestrians when
located near a school, place of worship, auditorium, theater or other place of assembly.
FACT: The property does not abut a school, place of worship, auditorium, theater
or other place of assembly and the nearest such use is Foothills Middle School, which is
far removed from any potential impacts or traffic hazards from the proposed drive-through
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improvements to this site. The Project will solely be focused on adding an additional drive-
through lane to increase the capacity and efficiency of the drive-through queue and no
pedestrian access on private or public property will be impeded.
5. Adequate conditions have been applied through the required planning
entitlement to prevent adverse impacts on surrounding properties with respect to noise,
trespass, and litter control.
FACT: The Project has been reviewed by the various City departments and
conditioned to prevent adverse impacts to any of the surrounding properties. The site is
surrounded by a commercial plaza that is not expected to be impacted by the proposed
improvements and the nearest residential property is located over 200 feet away from the
site. Conditions have been added to ensure that the new trash enclosure meets the City’s
standards and that any light or glare terminates at the property line for any new light
fixtures.
Administrative Modification
The Project meets at least one of the following:
1. Secure an appropriate improvement of a lot;
2. Prevent an unreasonable hardship; or
3. Promote uniformity of development
FACT: The Project is proposing to provide 29 parking spaces in lieu of the required
38 spaces. The proposed parking modification will secure an appropriate improvement of
the lot because the existing drive-through can benefit from improvements for an increased
capacity in lieu of meeting the minimum parking requirements per the Development Code.
This location has seen the percentage of customers that utilize the drive-through increase
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from 63% of customers to 79% within the past two years, thereby only having 21% of their
customers walk into the restaurant to order food. Further, it has been determined that not
all of the existing 38 parking spaces on site are utilized. A parking evaluation determined
that, at most, 20 parking spaces were utilized by customers during peak hours. Therefore,
although the site would be deficient by nine (9) spaces, the proposed 29 parking spaces
will not be an issue as it will adequately serve the parking demand on site. The new drive-
through improvements would also be able to handle any unforeseen parking demand that
exceeds onsite parking availability. Therefore, a reduction in onsite parking from the 38
required parking spaces to the 29 spaces provided is not anticipated to cause any
potential impacts and would be an appropriate improvement for this lot in order to
accommodate the drive-through improvements for the increased drive-through demand.
Architectural Design Review
1. The proposal is consistent with the City’s Commercial Design Guidelines:
FACT: The proposed drive-through improvements and parking lot layout are
consistent with the City’s Commercial Design Guidelines and all the applicable findings
under Site Plan and Design Review can be made since the improvements will not
adversely affect the current operations on the site, will not affect the surrounding uses,
and are compatible with the commercial developments along this portion of E. Foothill
Boulevard. No improvements or alterations are proposed for the existing restaurant
building on site. This is solely a Project to improve the capacity and efficiency of the
existing drive-through for the McDonald’s restaurant by adding an additionaldrive-through
lane. The Project has been designed in a manner that will not interfere with any pedestrian
or vehicular access on the adjacent commercial properties or within the public right-of-
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9
way. The design of the drive-through will maintain compatibility with the surrounding uses
on E. Foothill Boulevard which consists of various commercial uses including restaurants,
retail stores, and offices. Along with the site improvements, pockets of landscaping will
also be integrated into the parking lot. Therefore, the proposed site improvements to the
drive-through and parking lot are consistent with the City’s Design Guidelines and all the
applicable findings under Site Plan and Design Review.
SECTION 3. Pursuant to the provisions of the California Environmental Quality
Act (“CEQA”), this Project is subject to a Class 5 Categorical Exemption for a minor
alteration to land use limitations per Section 15305 of the CEQA Guidelines and a Class
32 Categorical Exemption as an infill-development project per Section 15332 of the CEQA
Guidelines.
SECTION 4. For the foregoing reasons the Planning Commission determines
that the Project is Categorically Exempt under the California Environmental Quality Act
(“CEQA”) Section 15305, Class 5, and 15332, Class 32, and approves Conditional Use
Permit No. CUP 23-05, Architectural Design Review No. ADR 22-11, and Planning
Commission Administrative Modification No. PC AM 22-03 to add an additional drive-
through lane to the existing drive-through lane and a parking modification to allow 29
parking spaces in lieu of the 38 parking spaces required at 143 E. Foothill Boulevard,
subject to the conditions of approval attached hereto.
SECTION 5. The Secretary shall certify to the adoption of this Resolution.
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Passed, approved and adopted this 24th day of October, 2023.
Vincent Tsoi
Chair, Planning Commission
ATTEST:
Lisa L. Flores
Secretary
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
Michael J. Maurer
City Attorney
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Page Intentionally Left Blank
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RESOLUTION NO. 2136
Conditions of Approval
1. The project shall be developed and maintained by the Applicant/Property Owner
in a manner that is consistent with the plans submitted and conditionally
approved for CUP 23-05, ADR 22-11, and PC AM 22-03, subject to the approval
of the Deputy Development Services Director or designee.
2. The drive-through shall not be open for business anytime between 12:00 a.m.
and 5:00 a.m. of the following day.
3. All new exterior signage, including signage for the drive-through, shall be
reviewed and approved separately under a Sign Architectural Design Review
Application.
4. For any new light fixtures, an exterior parking lot lighting plan and photometric
lighting analysis shall be provided with the electrical plans to plan-check in
Building Services. The parking lot light fixtures shall have a blank metal insert to
ensure any potential light and glare terminates at zero at the property lines. The
style of the parking lot lights shall be reviewed and approved by the Deputy
Development Services Director, or designee, prior to plan-check review.
5. The Applicant/Property Owner shall comply with the latest adopted edition of the
following codes as applicable:
a) California Building Code
b) California Electrical Code
c) California Mechanical Code
d) California Plumbing Code
e) California Energy Code
f) California Fire Code
g) California Green Building Standards Code
h) California Existing Building Code
i) Arcadia Municipal Code
6. The Property Owner/Applicant shall size the trash enclosure area accordingly. A
minimum of three bins/carts; one each for trash, recycling, and green waste/food
waste. For bins, there should be a one-foot clearance around each bin.
7. The Applicant/Property Owner shall comply with all City requirements regarding
building safety, fire prevention, detection, suppression, emergency access,
public right-of-way improvements, parking, water supply and water facilities,
sewer facilities, trash reduction and recycling requirements, and National
Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) measures to the satisfaction
of the Building Official, Fire Marshal, Public Works Services Director, and Deputy
Development Services Director, or their respective designees. Compliance with
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these requirements is to be determined by having fully detailed construction
plans submitted for plan check review and approval by the foregoing City officials
and employees.
8. To the maximum extent permitted by law, the Applicant/Owner must defend,
indemnify, and hold the City, any departments, agencies, divisions, boards,
and/or commissions of the City, and its elected officials, officers, contractors
serving as City officials, agents, employees, and attorneys of the City
(“Indemnitees”) harmless from liability for damages and/or claims, actions, or
proceedings for damages for personal injuries, including death, and claims for
property damage, and with respect to all other actions and liabilities for damages
caused or alleged to have been caused by reason of the Applicant’s activities in
connection with CUP 23-05, ADR 22-11, and PC AM 22-03 (“Project”), and which
may arise from the direct or indirect operations of the Applicant or those of the
Applicant’s contractors, agents, tenants, employees or any other persons acting
on Applicant’s behalf, which relate to the development and/or construction of the
Project. This indemnity provision applies to all damages and claims, actions, or
proceedings for damages, as described above, regardless of whether the City
prepared, supplied, or approved the plans, specifications, or other documents for
the Project.
In the event of any legal action challenging the validity, applicability, or
interpretation of any provision of this approval, or any other supporting document
relating to the Project, the City will notify the Applicant of the claim, action, or
proceedings and will cooperate in the defense of the matter. The Applicant must
indemnify, defend and hold harmless the Indemnitees, and each of them, with
respect to all liability, costs and expenses incurred by, and/or awarded against,
the City or any of the Indemnitees in relation to such action. Within 15 days’
notice from the City of any such action, the Applicant shall provide to the City a
cash deposit to cover legal fees, costs, and expenses incurred by City in
connection with defense of any legal action in an initial amount to be reasonably
determined by the City Attorney. The City may draw funds from the deposit for
such fees, costs, and expenses. Within 5 business days of each and every notice
from City that the deposit has fallen below the initial amount, Applicant shall
replenish the deposit each and every time in order for City’s legal team to
continue working on the matter. The City shall only refund to the Developer any
unexpended funds from the deposit within 30 days of: (i) a final, non-appealable
decision by a court of competent jurisdiction resolving the legal action; or (ii) full
and complete settlement of legal action. The City shall have the right to select
legal counsel of its choice. The parties hereby agree to cooperate in defending
such action. The City will not voluntarily assist in any such third-party
challenge(s). In consideration for approval of the Project, this condition shall
remain in effect if the entitlement(s) related to this Project is rescinded or
revoked, at the request of the Applicant or not.
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24347.00004\41737254.1
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9. Approval of CUP 23-05, ADR 22-11, and PC AM 22-03 shall not be in effect
unless the Property Owner and Applicant have executed and filed the
Acceptance Form with the City on or before 30 calendar days after the Planning
Commission has adopted the Resolution. The executed Acceptance Form
submitted to the Development Services Department is to indicate awareness and
acceptance of the conditions of approval.
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Attachment No. 2
Attachment No. 2
Aerial Photo Zoning Information
Photos of the Subject Property
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Overlays
Selected parcel highlighted
Parcel location within City of Arcadia
N/A
Property Owner(s):
Lot Area (sq ft):
Year Built:
Main Structure / Unit (sq. ft.):
C-G
Number of Units:
C
Property Characteristics
1965
3,249
1
Property Owner
Site Address:143 E FOOTHILL BLVD
Parcel Number: 5771-021-017
N/A
Zoning:
General Plan:
N/A
Downtown Overlay:
Downtown Parking Overlay:
Architectural Design Overlay:N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
Residential Flex Overlay:
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
Special Height Overlay:
N/A
Parking Overlay:
Racetrack Event Overlay:
This map is a user generated static output from an Internet mapping site and is for
reference only. Data layers that appear on this map may or may not be accurate, current,
or otherwise reliable.
Report generated 19-Oct-2023
Page 1 of 1 70
SITE PHOTOS
DRIVE-THROUGH EXIT ON WEST SIDE
EXISTING BUILDING
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DRIVE-THROUGH ENTRANCE ON EAST SIDE
PARKING SPACES AT REAR OF PROPERTY
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EXISTING ORDERING SCREEN AT REAR OF PROPERTY
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Attachment No.
Attachment No.
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Preliminary Exemption Assessment FORM “A”
PRELIMINARY EXEMPTION ASSESSMENT
1.Name or description of project:CUP 23-05, ADR 22-11, and PC AM 22-03 - To add an
additional drive-through lane next to an existing drive-through
lane and a parking modification to allow 29 parking spaces in
lieu of the 38 parking spaces required.
2.Project Location – Identify street
address and cross streets or
attach a map showing project site
(preferably a USGS 15’ or 7 1/2’
topographical map identified by
quadrangle name):
143 E. Foothill Boulevard – The business is located on the
north side of E. Foothill Boulevard between Highland Oaks
Drive and N. 2nd Avenue.
3.Entity or person undertaking
project:
A.
B.Other
(Private)
(1)Name Carlos Madrigal, McDonald’s Corporation
(2)Address 18565 Jamboree Road, Suite 850
Irvine, CA 92612
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:15305 – Class 5 (Minor alteration to land use
limitations)
15332 – Class 32 (In-fill development)
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:
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Preliminary Exemption Assessment FORM “A”
Date: October 5, 2023 Staff: Edwin Arreola, Associate Planner
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ARCADIA PLANNING COMMISSION
REGULAR MEETING MINUTES
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 12, 2023
Any writings or documents provided to a majority of the Planning Commission regarding any item on this agenda will be made
available for public inspection in the City’s Planning Services Office located at 240 W. Huntington Drive, Arcadia, California,
during normal business hours.
CALL TO ORDER Chair Tsoi called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.
ROLL CALL
PRESENT: Chair Tsoi, Vice Chair Wilander, Arvizu, Hui, Tallerico
ABSENT: None
SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION FROM STAFF REGARDING AGENDA ITEMS
There were none to report.
PUBLIC COMMENTS (5 minute time limit per person)
There were none.
PUBLIC HEARING
1. Resolution No. 2133 – Approving Tentative Parcel Map No. TPM 22-03 (84027) to subdivide the
airspace for an approved three-unit multi-family residential condominium development at 709 S.
Second Avenue
CEQA: Exempt
Recommendation: Adopt
Applicant: Philip Chan
MOTION - PUBLIC HEARING
Chair Tsoi introduced the item and Assistant Planner Alison MacCarley presented the staff report.
Commissioner Arvizu asked about the dedication and its purpose.
Ms. MacCarley explained it is to widen the street on Second Avenue and it is an engineering
requirement.
The Commissioners had no further questions for staff.
The public hearing was opened.
The Applicant, Philip Chan, introduced himself and the proposal.
The Commissioners had no questions for the Applicant.
No one else spoke in favor of the proposal.
Chair Tsoi asked if there were any speakers in opposition of the proposal.
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No one spoke in opposition of the proposal.
It was moved by Vice Chair Wilander, seconded by Commissioner Hui, to close the public hearing.
Without objection, the motion was approved.
DISCUSSION
Commissioner Tallerico said the proposal is straightforward, meets all the findings and had no
concerns.
Vice Chair Wilander agreed, and Commissioner Tallerico was in favor of the proposal.
Commissioner Hui had no concerns and was in favor of the proposal.
Commissioner Arvizu had a question about the site’s address number, but it was clarified by staff.
Chair Tsoi was in favor of approving the proposal.
MOTION
It was moved by Commissioner Tallerico, seconded by Commissioner Hui to adopt Resolution
No. 2133 to approve Tentative Parcel Map No. TPM 22-03 (84027) to subdivide the airspace for
an approved three-unit multi-family condominium development at 709 S. Second Avenue in which
the findings were made and is CEQA exempt.
ROLL CALL
AYES: Chair Tsoi, Vice Chair Tsoi, Arvizu, Hui, Tallerico
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
The motion was approved.
There is a 10-day appeal period. Appeals are to be filed by 5:30 p.m. on Monday, September 25,
2023.
PUBLIC HEARING
2. Resolution No. 2128 – Approving Tentative Parcel Map No. 23-08 (84177) to subdivide a 67,870
square foot single-family residential parcel into two legal lots at 1014 Hampton Road
CEQA: Exempt
Recommendation: Adopt
Applicant: Robert Tong
MOTION - PUBLIC HEARING
Chair Tsoi introduced the item and Assistant Planner Alison MacCarley presented the staff report.
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Ms. MacCarley read into the record there was a typo in the staff report that originally stated the
direction of the location of the lot was on the northeast corner of Hampton Road and Dexter
Avenue but is in fact located in the southwest corner.
Vice Chair Wilander asked why the house would be demolished if no project has been proposed.
Ms. MacCarley explained that a structure cannot cross over the new property lines, therefore the
house must be demolished before the final map can be approved.
Commissioner Hui asked what the criteria are for a Historic Report.
Ms. MacCarley explained a historic report is required for any structure or building that is 50 years
of age or older.
Vice Chair Tsoi had no questions for staff.
The public hearing was opened.
The Applicant, Robert Tong, introduced himself and spoke on behalf of the property owner.
The Commissioners had no questions for the Applicant.
No one else spoke in favor of the proposal.
Chair Tsoi asked if there were any speakers in opposition of the proposal.
No one spoke in opposition of the proposal.
It was moved by Commissioner Tallerico, seconded by Commissioner Hui, to close the public
hearing.
Without objection, the motion was approved.
DISCUSSION
Commissioner Tallerico had no concerns and was in favor of the proposal.
Vice Chair Wilander stated that it made sense to split the lot given its size. She was in favor of
the subdivision.
Commissioner Arvizu agreed with Vice Chair Wilander and was in favor of the proposal.
Commissioner Hui had no concerns and was in favor of the proposal.
Vice Chair Wilander asked if the Homeowners Association was in support of the subdivision.
Ms. MacCarley stated the HOA does not review tentative parcel maps.
Chair Tsoi asked if a fence is required while it is vacant.
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Deputy Development Services Director Lisa Flores stated the property will be required to be
registered on the vacant property registry if the property remains vacant and no construction
activity occurs to ensure the property is adequately maintained.
MOTION
It was moved by Commissioner Tallerico, seconded by Vice Chair Wilander to adopt Resolution
No. 2128 to approve Tentative Parcel Map No. TPM 23-03 (84177) to subdivide a 67,870 square
foot single-family residential parcel into two legal lots at 1014 Hampton Road in which the findings
were made and is exempt from CEQA.
ROLL CALL
AYES: Chair Tsoi, Vice Chair Wilander, Arvizu, Hui, and Tallerico
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
The motion was approved.
There is a 10-day appeal period. Appeals are to be filed by 5:30 p.m. on Monday, September 25,
2023.
CONSENT CALENDAR
1. Minutes of the August 22, 2023, Regular Meeting of the Planning Commission
Recommended: Approve
Commissioner Arvizu made a motion to approve the minutes and seconded by Commissioner Hui.
ROLL CALL
AYES: Chair Tsoi, Vice Chair Wilander, Arvizu, and Hui
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
Commissioner Tallerico abstained since he was not present at the August 22, 2023, meeting.
The motion was approved.
MATTERS FROM CITY COUNCIL LIAISON
Dr. Cao reported that there will be a reception for the City Council reorganization on September 19 and
the City Council reorganization meeting will follow at 7:00 p.m.
MATTERS FROM THE PLANNING COMMISSONERS
Vice Chair Wilander reported the League of Women Voters will be hosting an ice cream social to raise
funds on Sunday, October 15.
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Commissioner Tallerico asked for a summary of the Mayor’s Breakfast. Dr. Cao and Vice Chair Wilander
listed some of the highlights of the event.
MATTERS FROM ASSISTANT CITY ATTORNEY
Assistant City Attorney Yeo had nothing to report.
MATTERS FROM STAFF INCLUDING UPCOMING AGENDA ITEMS
Ms. Flores reported that there will not be a Planning Commission meeting on September 26 and there
will be two items for the October 10 meeting.
Ms. Flores reported the Derby Mixed-Use project will be tentatively scheduled for a meeting in November.
The Text Amendment for artificial turf will be going to the City Council on October 2.
Planning Services is hosting an Environmental Justice Virtual meeting for the public on October 11.
ADJOURNMENT
The Planning Commission adjourned the meeting at 7:28 p.m., to Tuesday, September 26, 2023, at 7:00
p.m. in the City Council Chamber.
Chair Tsoi, Planning Commission
ATTEST:
Lisa L. Flores
Secretary, Planning Commission
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