HomeMy WebLinkAboutAgenda Statement 1977/10/25 Item 19 Item No. 19
October 25, 1977
Ordinance 1771 � . � � CITY OF CHULA VISTA . 19
� COUNCIL AGENDA STATEMENT I�em No. �;��
For meeting of�10 25�77
Public hearing - Consideration of amendments to the Chula Vista Municipal Code
creating a Design Review Comnittee and making related changes
ITEM TITLEOrdinance 1771 - Repealing Section 19.28.150 of the �•tunicipal Code and adding
new sections 19.28.180, 19.28.190, 19.56,048, 19.14.579 and 19.14.580 relating
to design control in the R-3 zone and the P Modifying District and adding
; ��� Sections 19.14.581 through 19.14.589 creating a design review coirmiittee and
� - making related changes.
`- -� " Resolution $$1�a Adopting the Design Manual of the City of Chula Vista
SUBMITTED BY ' ector of Planning
ITEM EXPLANATION � (4/5TH'S VOTE REQUIRED YES_ NO X )
A. BACKGROUND � S���UivU i;u;J!1G F:1D /�DOP7lON
1 . The Planning Department, on December 7, 197,0, submitted a "Report on R-3 Districts
in the City of Chula Vista" to the City Council . This report noted that the Department
was engaged in the study of legislation which would create a "more intensive site plan and
architectural review process, administered by a Design Review Cormnittee. "
2. Upon the conclusion of its consideration of' the report of December 7, 1976 Council
instructed staff to continue its "site plan and architectural review" studies. These
studies have been concluded and are the bases of_ the following recommendations.
3. The Environmental Review Committee, meeting in regular session on June 23, 1977,
conducted an Initial Study, IS-77-49, on the proposed design manual and amendments to the
Chula Vista Municipal Code<and-.issued-a iJecati.ve Decla_ration of significant impact upon the
environment. - ' - `"- " - � " '
4. On July 27, 1977 the Planning Comnission found that in accordance with the Negative
Declaration on IS-77-49 and the findings therein, the proposed design manual and zoning
text amendments will not have any significant impact upon the environment, and certified that
the Negative Declaration was prepared in accordance with the California Environmental
Quality Act of 1970, as amended.
B. ANALYSIS
1 . For some time staff has been concerned about the quality of much of the multiple
family development which has been occurring in the community. The proposed design manual ,
and amendments to the text of the City's zoning regulations are submitted as a part of a
DMP:hm (Continued on supplemental page)
EXHIBITS
. Agreement ResolutionX Ordinance X Plat_ Notification List_
Other Res. PCA-78-1 ENVIRONMENTAL DOCUMENT: Attached� Submitted on
Desi n Ma
FINANCIAL IMPACT y
—STAFF RECOMMENDATION . . .
1 . Find that the proposed design manual and zoning text amendments will not have any
significant impact upon the environment and certify the Negative Declaration on IS-77-49.
2. Adopt an ordinance repealing Section 19.28. 150 of the Municipal Code and adding
various sections to the Municipal Code establishing a Design Review Committee and making
the related changes as contained in Resolution PCA-78-1 .
3. Adopt a resolution approving the Design Manual of the City of Chula Vista.
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION (See attached Planning Commission minutes)
On September 14, 1977 the Planning Cormnission recortunended, by a 4-3 vote, that the
appropriate le9islation be enacted .for the creation of the Design Review Cormnittee; and
recormnended by a 5-2 vote, that the proposed Design Manual of the City of Chula Vista be
�ad.OP_ted---� .
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At its meeting of September 19, 1977, the EnvironmentalCont�ol,Commission voted 4-0 to
recommend that the City Council create a Design Review Board and suggested that a member
of the ECC be considered for appointment.
COUNCIL ACTION •
. Placed on first reading, October 25 , 1977 .
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I , . i Form A-113 (Rev. 5/77)
AGENDA ITEM NO��,-1-4�-9 ,��_
Meeting of 10/25/77
Supplemental page No. 2
continuing program for the improvement of the order and amenity of high density residential
areas. While prior staff submittals have addressed the R-3 zone's density problems and the
incursion of multiple family uses into residential areas-in=transition, the instant proposals
are confined to urban design and spatial relationships.
2. While city planning is more comprehensive than urban design (townscape planning) ,
the neglect of the latter can nullify the former. There are strong indications that this
nullification has, to an appreciable extent, taken place in several R-3 areas of Chula Vista.
3. The proposed marual and zoning text amendments are calculated to provide Chula
Vista's urban design efforts improved direction, intensification and unification. The
design review authority over multiple family residential projects, which is now shared by
the Council , Planning Comnission, and Zoning Administrator, would, under this report's
provisions, be consolidated in the Design Review Comnittee. The said cortenittee should be
able, through concerted study and dedication, to bring a new and viable force to the city's
design review process. This statement is supported by the excellent work of the Design
Review Board in the Chula Vista Town Centre Redevelopment Project Area.
4. Although the Design Manual of the City of Chula Vista and the jurisdiction of the
Design Review Corrunittee are limited to the R-3 zone and multiple family residential uses •
covered by the "P" Precise Plan Modifying District, both can readily be extended to
commercial and industrial uses and zones by the Council . The proposed program is initially
multiple family residential in scope because of its "areas-in-transition" lineage and the
city's immediate concern over multiple family residential design.
5. The Design Manual of the City of Chula Vista can be readily amended by Council
resolution as changing circumstances require such.
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� � NEGA�IVE DE�LARA i 10� � `
� EXb���T
�
. PROJECT TZTLE : Chula Vista Design Manual
Project Location : City of Chula Vista
Project Proponent : City of Chula Vista
CASE NO. IS-77-49 DATE: June 23 , 1977
A. Background
The Planning Department, on December 7 , 1976 , submitted its "Report
on R-3 Districts in the City of Chula Vist" to the City Council.
This progress report, under paragraph 5 of the Background, noted
that the Department was engaged in the study of legislation ��hich -
would create a "more intensive site plan and architectural review
process, administered by a Design Review Board. "
Upon the conclusion of its consideration of the report of Dec. 7 , 1976
Council instructed staff to continue its "site plan and architectural
� reivew" studies. These studies have been concluded, and are the
basis of the £ollowing proposed amendment to the Chula Vista
Municipal Code .
B. Proposed Project
Repeal section 19 . 28. 150 of the Chula Vista Dlunicipal Code entitled
"Site plan and Architectural Review " which reads :
"Site plan and architectural review £or the R-3 zone sha11 be
in accordance with Sections 19 . 14 . 420 through 19. 14. 480. "
Add the following proposed amendments to the Chula Vista Municipal
Code :
Chapter 19. 28
R-3 APARTMENT RESIDERTTIAL ZONE
Section 19. 28. 180 Design Control _
The exterior design and arrangement of all residential uses and
, structures proposed for establishment, location, expansion, or
. aYteration in the R-3 zones shall be governed by the goal , general
objectives, statements of policy , and principles and standards of
the Design Pianual of the City of Chu1a Vista.
Section 19 . 28. 190 Jurisdiction of the Design Review Committee
The Design Dianual of� the City of Chula Vista shall be effectuated
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and ad�ministered by the Design Review Committee , established and
governed by Sections 19. 19 . 581 through 19 . 14 . 587.
Chapter 19 . 56 ,
MODZFYING DISTRICTS .
Section 19 . 56 . 048 P Precise Plan Modifying District--Plan Review
of Multiple Family Dwellings .
Notwithstanding the provisions of Section 19 . 56 . 047 , plans for
multiple-family dwelling projects in areas governed by the P Precise
Plan Modifying shall be reviewed by the Design Review Committee ,
and shall be considered by the Planning Commission and the City
Council only tipon appeal, pursuant to Section 19 . 14 . 583.
Chapter 19. 14
ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURES, CONDITIONAL USES , VARIANCES
Section 19 . 14. 579 Precise Plan Approval--Multiple Family Dwelling
Projects .
Notwithstanding the provisions of other sections of this chapter,
the review of precise plans for multiple-family dwelling projects
shall be procedurally governed by the rules adopted by the Design /
Review Committee , created under Section 19 . 14 . 581.
Section 19 . 14 . 580 Precise Plan Approval for Multiple-Family Projects-
Zoning Administrator.
Following the approval or conditional approval of a precise plan' for
a multiple-family dwelling project by the Design Review Committee ,
or, upon appeal, the Planning Commission or City Council , the
Zoning Administrator shall issue a zoning permit as provided in
Sections 19. 14 . 500 through 19. 14 . 550 of this title , and the building
inspector shall ensure that the development is undertaken and
completed in con£ormance with the approved plans .
Add the following amendments to the Chula Vista Municipal Code , and
thereby provide for the creation and operation of the Design Review
Committee.
Section 19 . 14 . 581 Design Review Committee--Creation
In order to relieve the Planning Commission of certain routine
functions necessary to the proper administration of this chapter; �
to intensify this municipality ' s efforts to improve its townscape;
and, to promote the orderly growth and amenity of the City of Chula
Vista and environs , there is hereby established a Design Review
Committee with such authority as is granted by this chapter.
Section 19. 14 . 582 Design Review Committee--Duties and Responsibilities.
A. The Design Review Committee shall review plans for the establish-
ment, location, expansion, or alteration of residential uses or
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B. All members should be familiar with and abie to read and interpret
architectural drawings; and be able to judae the effect of a
proposed project, structure , or sign upon the surrounding
neighborhood and community.
- Section 19 . 14 . 585 Design Review Committee--Term of Membership.
Each member of the Design Review Committee appointed to succeed the
members initially appointed shall serve for a term of three (3)
years. Members initially appointed shall serve for the following
terms to be determined by lot at the Design Review Committee'' s first
business meeting:
1 . Two (2) members sha11 serve for a term of three (3) years.
2. To-�o (2) members shall serve for a term of two (2) years .
3. One (1) member shall serve for a term of one (1) year.
No member shall serve more than two (2) consecutive terms.
Section 19 . 14 . 586 Design Review Committee--Removal or Vacancy.
Any member of the Design Review Committee may be removed by a
majority vote of the City Council. A vacancy shall be filled in the
same manner as an original appointment and the person filling the
vacancy shall serve for the remainder of the removed member' s
unexpired term. If a member is absent without cause from three (3)
consecutive regular meetings , the office becomes automatically vacant.
A member is not absent without cause if the absence is due to illness ,
business, or vacation.
Section 19 . 14 . 587 Design Review Committee--Quorum.
Three (_3) members shall constitute a quorum, Action by the Design
Review Committee requires a majori'ty vote of the quorum.
Section 19 . 14 . 588 Design Review Board --Schedule of �;eetinas
The Design Review Ccmmittee shall meet at least twice each month.
Special meetings may be held in accordance 4�ith orovisions of the
Government Code of the State of California. The meetings shall not
be held on any legal holiday.
Section 19. 14 . 589 Design Review Com�-nittee--Election of O_`ficers
At tne first regularly scheculed meeting of the Design Review
Com.,-aittee, and on each July thereafter, the members shall elect a
Chairman and Vice-Chairman from among its members to serve a term
of one (1) year, and until the successor of each takes office.
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structures' in the R-3 zone , and multiple-family dwelling uses or
structures governed by the P Precise Plan Modifying District;
and, shall approve , conditionally approve, or deny such plans .
{.:�_.
B. The Design Review Committee sha11 base its £indings and action
upon the provisions of the Design Manual of the City of Chula
Vista.
C. The Design Review Committee shall prepare and adopt operational
procedures , by-laws , and business forms.
D. The Design Review Committee shall submit annual reports on its
operations to the City Planning Commission.
Seciton 19. 14 . 583 Design Review Committee--Appeal Procedure
A. The applicant or other interested persons may file an appeal
from the decision of the Design Review Committee to the Planning
Commission within ten (10) working days after the decision is
filed with the City Clerk. Said appeal shall be in writing and
filed in triplicate with the Planning Department on forms
prescribed for said appeal, and shall specify therein the
argument against the decision of the Design Review Committee.
If an appeal is filed within the time limit specified, it
automatically stays proceedings in the matter until a determination
is made by the Planning Commission.
B. Upon the hearing of such appeal, the Planning Commission may , by
resolution, affirm, reverse or modify in whole or in part, any
determination of the Design Review Committee . The resolution
must contain a finding of facts showing wherein the project
meets or fails to meet the reguirements of this chapter and the
provisions of the Design Manual. A simple majority of a quorum
of the Planning Commission shall be necessary to change or modify
the decision of the Design Review Committee.
C. The decision of the Planning Commission may be appealed to the .
City Council in the same manner as set forth in this section
for appeals to the Planning Commission.
Seciton 19. 14 . 584 Design Review Committee--Membership Qualification.
A. The Design Review Ccmmittee shall consist of five members appeinted
• by the majority vote of the Council. The membership shall be
comprised of persons sensitive to design consideration and
interested in townscape matters. Persons qualified for membership
shall include architects , landscape architects , land planners ,
apartment builders and other citizens who have demonstrated a
genuine interest in the community and a sensitivity to good
design.
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D. FINDINGS -
1. The proposed zoning text.:amendments and design manual do
not involve any specific property; therefore , will not endanger
, any species of wildlife or vegetation and will not be subject
to any geologic hazard.
2. The proposed project is in conformance with the General Plan
and will aid in achieveing the goals and objectives therein.
3. There are no impacts anticipated which could interact to
create a cumulative adverse effect on the environment. The
proposed provisions will result in the enhancement of the
micro living environment.
4 . Requirements set forth in the proposed zoning text amendment
and design manual will not involve increased transmission of
noise or emission of pollutants. .
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Mitigation measures included as part of the project to avoid
significant impact.
none proposed
The Initial Study application and evaluation forms aocumenting the
, findings of no significant impact are attached.
G���^���*�'z'�
EIVIRONN�VIESa COORDINATOR
1 7 �
Et3 3 (rev. 5/77) 5
. . RESOLUTION N0. PCA-78-1
RESOLUTION OF THE CITY PLAP�P7IPdG COMMISSION RECONP1EP�DING TO THE
CITY COUNCIL THE REPEAL OF SECTION 19.28.150 OF THE MUPJICIPAL
CODE AND THE ADOPTION OF NEIJ SECTIONS RELATING TO DESIGN CONTROL
IN THE R-3 RESIDENTIAL ZONE AND THE P PRECISE PLAN MODIfYING
DISTRICTS, ALSO THE CREATION Of A DESIGN REVIEW COMMITTEE WITH
ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURES, AND THE ADOPTION OF A �
DESIGN fMNUAL OF THE .CITY OF CHULA VISTA
WHEREAS, subsequent to a report submitted to the City Council on December 7,
1976 on R-3 Districts in the City of Chula Vista, the City Council asked for
further study on legislation which would create a more intensive site plan and
architectural review process, administered by a Design Review Committee, and
WHEREAS, the proposed amendments and design manual were the subject of
Initial Study IS-77-49 conducted by the Environmental Review Committee on June 23,
1977 and the Cortrtnittee issued a draft Negative Declaration for Planning Commission
consideration, and
WHEREAS, the City Planning Commission set a public hearing to consider
the proposed amendments and the adoption of the design manual , and
WHEREAS, a hearing 4�as held at said time and place, namely 7:00 p.m. ,
July 27, 1977 and September 14, 1977, and said hearing was thereafter closed, and
IdHEREAS, on July 27, 1977 the City Planning Corrunission found that in
accordance with the Negative Declaration on IS-77-49 and the findings therein, the
proposed zoning text amendments and design manual will not have any significant
impact upon the environment, and certified that the Negative Declaration was
prepared in accordance with the California Environmental Quality Act of 1970, as
amended,
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED AS FOLLOWS:
1 . From facts presented to the Planning Corrunission, the Corrmission finds
that public necessity, convenience, general welfare and good zoning practice
require that the City Council appeal Section 19.28.150 of the Chula Vista Municipal
Code, entitled "Site Plan and Architectural Review," which reads:
"Site plan and architectural review for the R-3 zone shall be in accord-
ance with Sections 19.14.420 through 19.14.480. "
2. The Planning Cortmission recortunends that the City Council adopt the
following proposed additions to the Municipal Code:
Chapter 19.28
R-3 APARTMENT RESIDENTIAL ZONE
Section 19.28. 180 Design control .
The exterior design and arrangement of all residential uses
and structures proposed for establishment, location, expansion, or
� � )
alteration in the R-3 zones shall be governed by the goal , general
objectives, statements of policy, and principles and standards of the
Design Manual of the City of Chula Vista.
Section 19.28. 190 Jurisdiction of the Design Review Coimnittee.
The Design Manual of the City of Chula Vista shall be effectuated
and administered by the Design Review Comnittee, established and
governed by Sections 19.14.581 through 19. 14.587.
Chapter 19.56
MODIFYING DISTRICTS
Section 19.56.048 P Precise Plan Modifying District--Plan
review of multiple family dwellings.
Notwithstanding the provisions of Section 19.56.047, plans for
multiple family dwelling projects in areas governed by the P Precise
Plan Modifying District shall be reviewed by the Design Review Corranittee,
and shall be considered by the Planning Comnission and the City Council
only upon appeal , pursuant to Section 19.14.583.
Chapter 19. 14
ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURES, CONDITIONAL USES, VARIANCES
Section 19. 14.579 Precise plan approval--Multiple family dwelling
projects.
Notwithstanding the provisions of other sections of this chapter,
the review of precise plans for multiple family dwelling projects
shall be procedurally governed by the rules adopted by the Design
Review Committee, created under Section 19. 14. 581 .
Section 19.14.580 Precise plan approval for multiple family projects--
Zoning administrator.
Following the approval or conditional approval of a precise plan for
a multiple family dwelling project by the Design Review Committee, or
upon appeal , the Plannin9/Commission or City Council , the zoning adminis-
r ;
trator shall issue a zoning permit as provided in Sections 19.14.500
through 19.14.550 of this title, and the building inspector shall ensure
that the development is undertaken and completed in conformance with the
approved plans.
-Z-
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. - , 3;- The Planning Cor�nissi.on further recommends that the City Council adopt
tfie following additions to the Municipal Code to provide for the creation and
operation of the Design Review Committee:
Section 19.14.581 Design Review Cormnittee--Creatlon.
In order to relieve the Planning Commission of certain routine
functions necessary to the proper administration of this chapter,
to intensify this municipality's efforts to improve its townscape,
and to promote the orderly growth and amenity of the City of Chula
Vista and environs, there is hereby established a Design Review
� Cormnittee with such authority as is granted by this chapter.
Section 19,14.582 Design Review Cortmittee--Duties and
responsibilities.
A. The Design Review Committee shall review plans for the establish-
ment, location, expansion, or alteration of residential uses or
structures in the R-3 zone, and multiple family da�elling uses or
structures governed by the P Precise Plan Modifying District; and,
shall approve, conditionally approve, or deny such plans.
B. The Design Review Corrmiittee shall base its findings and action
upon the provisions of the Design Manual of the City of Chula Vista.
C. The Design Review Committee shall prepare and adopt operational
procedures, by-laws, and business forms.
D. The Design Review Corranittee shall submit annual reports on its
operations to the City Planning Comnission.
Section 19.14.583 Design Review Cormnittee--Appeal procedure.
A. The applicant or other interested persons may file an appeal from
the decision of the Design Review Corrunittee to the Planning Cormnission
within ten (10) working days after the decision is filed with the City
Clerk. Said appeal shall be in writing and filed in triplicate with
the Pla�ning Department on forms prescribed for said appeal , and
shall specify therein the argument against the desicion of the Design
Review Comnittee. If an appeal is filed within the time limit
specified, it automatically stays proceedings in the matter until a
determination is made by the Planning Cormnission.
B. Upon the hearing of such appeal , the Planning Comnission may, by
resolution, affirm, reverse or modify in whole or in part, any
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. � determination of the Design Review Committee. The resolution
must contain a finding of facts showing wherein the project
meets or fails to meet the requirements of this chapter and
the provisions of the Design Manual . A simple majority of a
quorum of the Planning Cor�nission shall be necessary to cha�ge
or modify the decision of the Design Review Cortmittee.
C. The decision of the Planning Corrrtnission may be appealed to the
City Council in the same manner as set forth in this section
for appeals to the Planning Cortmiission.
Section 19. 14.584 Design Review Committee--Membership qualification.
A. The Design Review Comnittee shall consist of five members appointed
by the majority vote of the Council . The membership shall be comprised
of persons sensitive to design consideration and interested in town-
scape matters. Persons qualified for membership shall include
architects, landscape architects, land planners, apartment builders
and other citizens who have demonstrated a genuine interest in the
co«¢nunity and a sensitivity to good design.
B. All members should be familiar with and able to read and interpret
architectural drawings, and be able to judge the effect of a proposed
project, structure, or sig� upon the surrounding neighborhood and
cormnu n i ty.
Section 19.14.585 Design Review CorrQnittee--Term of inembership.
Any member of the Design Review Committee appointed to succeed the
members initially appointed shall serve for a term of three (3) years.
Members initially appointed shall serve for the following terms to be
determined by lot at the Design Review Committee's first business
meeting :
1 . Two (2) members shall serve for a term of three (3) years.
2. Two (2) members shall serve for a term of two (2) years.
3. One (1 ) member sha"11 serve for a term of one (1 ) year.
No member shall serve more than two (2) consecutive terms.
Section 19.14.5&6 Design Review Committee--Removal or vacancy.
Any member of the Design Review Committee may be removed by a
majority vote of the City Council . A vacancy shall be filled in the
same manner as an original appointment and the person filling the
vacancy shall serve for the remainder of the removed member' s unexpired
, 7 � � � �
term. If a member is absent without cause from three (3) consecu-
tive regular meetings, the office becomes automatically vacant.
A member is not absent without cause if the absence is due to illness,
business, or vacation.
Section 19.14.587 Design Review Committee--Quorum.
Three (3) members shall constitute a quorum. Action by the
Design Review Committee requires a majority vote of the quorum.
Section 19. 14.588 Design Review Committee--Schedule of ineetings.
The Design Review Committee shall meet at least twice each month.
Special meetings may be held in accordance with provisions of the
Government Code of the State of California. The meetings shall not
be held on any legal holiday.
Section 19.14.589 Design Review Comnittee--Election of officers.
At the first regularly scheduled meeting of the Design Review
Committee, and on each July thereafter, the members shall elect a
chairman and vice-chairman from among its members to serve a term
of one (1 ) year, and until the successor of each takes office.
BE IT: FURTHER RESOLVED that the Planning Commission recorrmends to the
City Council the adoption of the Design Manual of the City of Chula Vista.
PASSED AND APPROVED BY THE CITY PLANNING COMMISSION OF CHULA VISTA, CALIFORfJIA
this 14th day of September, 1977 by the following vote, to-wit:
AYES: Commissioners G. Johnson, R. Johnson, Pressutti and Cnandler
NOES: Commissioners Smith, Renneisen and 0'Neill
ABSENT: None
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Chairman
ATTEST:
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✓ Secretary
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� Planning C�mmission Meeting of September 14, 1977 � / ��;���
. Mr. Peterson pointed out that since the C-0 use is less intense than the C-C �
zone considered in the environmental study, there should be less impact than
noted in the Initial Study.
. This being the time and place as advertised, the public hearing was opened.
Carmen Pasquale, representing Otay Land Company, advised that they are the o�•mer
of the 1 .18 acre parcel and have no objection to rezoning it to C-O-P. He con-
curred tnat the C-C-P zone has more flexibili±y in alloaiable uses and if the
Commission desires to approve C-C-P zoning, that o-iould also be acceptable.
As no one else wished to speak, the public hearing was closed.
i�1SUC (G. Johnson-R. Johnson) The Commission finds that in accordance �aith the
Negative Declaration on IS-78-15 and the findinqs stated therein, the rezoning
of this report �•iill have no significant adverse environnental impact and certifies
the Negative Declaration.
t�1SUC (G. Johnson-R. Johnson) Based on the findings as stated in the staff report
the Corrunission recorrenends that the request for rezoning 2 acres from C-O-P to
C-C-P be denied, and further recommends that the City Council approve the rezoning
of 1 . 18 acres adjacent to the SDG&E easement on the south�•iest side of Otay Lakes
Road from R-E to C-O-P.
; 4./ PUBLIC HE.4RIP7G (Cont. ) : a. PCA-78-1 - Zoninq text amendment to create a
, `- Desiqn Review Committee
b. PCt•1-78-1 - Resolution to adoot a Design Review
hianual
Director of Planning Peterson noted that this item was considered in public hear-
ing in July, at �ahich time the Commission voted 3-3 on a r�otion to adopt the
amendment. At that time the Commission also asked the staff to investigate methods
used by other cities in the area �•iith regard to architectural revieai. This is
discussed in the staff report. The only taio cities which use a design revie�•i
board throughout their corporate limits are Del Mar and Coronado. Certain areas
in the City of San Diego are subject to that sort of revievi; those areas are,
basically, La Jolla, To�•m Center, and Old Toam areas.
Other methods used by cities throu9hout the state for conducting a desi9n reivew
program, range from assigning such review to the Planning Commission or City
Council , to having it done by the Zoning Administrator. The City of Berkeley
employs a City Architect who conducts that revie�v. Some cities have a City Beau-
tiful Committee. �
After considering all methods the staff still feels that in the City of Chula
, Vista a Design Revie�•i Cormnittee is the appropriate agency to do tnis �•+ork. That
Cormnittee would revieo-i multiple family develooments in the R-3 zones, and other
development in areas �•ihere the P I�lodifying District is established. The Committee
v�ould revieo-i the site plan as well as the architectural design of the buildings.
,
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� As no one •else wished to speak, the public hearing was closed.
Chairman Chandler asked if the Design Revieti•i Committee would be responsible £or
such things as open space and setbacks.
, hir. Peterson advised that these things are set forth in the Zoning Ordinance and
the Committee would be expected to adhere to the ordinance regulations pertaining
to any type of development.
In response to a question from Corrunissioner G. Johnson as to �•�ho reviews the
design for sin9le family houses , h1r. Peterson noted that such developments are
reviewed by the Planning .staff for conformance to ordinance requirements on �
space, setbacks , and so on, and there is no architectural review in the R-1 zone.
Commissioner Pressutti pointed out that house design must be appealing to the
potential customers or the homes would not sell .
Commissioner 0'Neill expressed the opinion that the proposed amendment would add
to the proliferation of boards and committees presently operating in the city.
He also felt that the principles and standards listed in the Design Manual are
very highly subjective, although having a Design Ptanual is a good idea. He
suggested that aihatever board revieeis design should do so for the R-3, industrial ,
and commercial developments, rather than having separate revieo-i bodies for the
different zones . He also felt there is enough professional talent on the city
staff to handle such review.
/ Commissioner Pressutti asked to what extent this Committee tiaould relieve the
staff of �•�ork they no�,v : perform.
hir. Peterson indicated it will not lessen the �•iork of the staff and may tend to
add to it. He pointed out that there is not a professional architect on the staff.
l•Jithout such personnel the staff does not have the expertise that is required
for the review of some fairly complex multiple family oroposals. The staff may
make suggestions to a developer, but not to the extent that a body of five
persons v�ho have some formal training in design and sensitivity to good design.
He agreed o-iith 14r. Oti�+ens that if nothin9 else, the Corrunittee would recoanize poor
design �•ihen they see it and would reject it. Right no�•i that is not being done.
He felt that it would be easier for a developer to accept the decision of a board
or committee than of an individual , especially if the person seeking approval is
a registered architect and the staff inember is not.
Chairman Chandler asked if the Council is looking for a means of getting volunteers
on a corrunittee in lieu of hiring a professional architect.
Mr. Peterson felt the review of various developments is subjective enough that
there needs to be more than one person trained in that field, so a committee �aould
be preferable to just one professional employee.
, Commissioner Smith pointed out that under principles and standards in the Design
t4anual , it states that the Design Review Corrmittee may require laroer setbacks
than specified in the Code.
, Mr. Peterson felt that siandard ti•iould not be frequently applied, except in
cases having a definite problem that the Cortmittee was trying to address, or
within the P hiodifying District where the developer had certain flexibility.
h1ainly, he felt the Committee should adhere to the normal setback requirements '
unless there was a valid reason for departing from it.
�� l
. . . /
�� h1r. Peterson reiterated his feeling that a Design Revie�a Cortmittee would �be the
. most effective means of assuring good development in the R-3 zone, �ahich has been
a concern expressed by the City Council . He noted that multiple family develop-
ments are quite prominent in the city because of their size and location, and
expressed the belief that as the cost of single family homes continues to
. escalate, more families wi11 be forced into multiple family units and there will
be a continued demand for such development.
h1r. Peterson recommended adoption of the proposed amendments and also a Design
Manual for the City of Chula Vista.
Commission G. Johnson questioned whether other cities that have design review
boards limit their reviet•� to multiple family developments , or include industrial
and commercial development as vrell .
Pir. Peterson advised that generally such review covers all development except
single family homes.
In response to a question from Commissioner Smith with reference to the cost
of administering this program� (dr. Peterson indicated that erith a Design Revieo-i
Committee he t•iould not see the need for lengthy printed staff reports . The
Committee's review �aould entail oral discussion of the proposed site plans and
architectural renderings. At present, developmentsin the P t•todifying District '
must undergo t�•�o public hearings--one before the Planning Commission and one before
the Council--in order to obtain approval of the plans . Under the proposed '
procedure such review �•�ould be done only by the Design Review Committee unless
, the decision of that body �•ras appealed to the Planning Commission and City
Council .
Chairman Chandler reopened the public hearing.
Steve 0:•iens , partner in O�aens Araiza Architects, 272 Church Avenue, expressed
support of the proposed amendment to create the Design Revie�•� Committee and urged
the Commission to send a recommendation for approval to the City Council . He felt
such review �•iould enhance the design of multiple family dvrellings in the City.
In resoonse to a question from Commissioner Renneisen as to his reasons for the
previous statement, Mr. 0�•rens said he thought the majority of the multiple family
structures in Chula Vista are designed by nonprofessional people, such as drafting
services , building designers, contractors ,. who are not trained in the architectural
field. He felt the Cormnittee should not be composed of five architects , but should
include an architect, a developer--who would be knowledgeable of cost factors-
and other design professionals , such as graphic designers.
In response to a question fran Comnissioner Pressutti concerning the various
connotations of �•ihat is good design, t4r. 0�•�ens pointed out that an architect
must consider the setting of a building and adjacent area in determining the
, best design.
l•lilliam Ed�•iards, on behalf of the Political Action Cort¢nittee of the Chula Vista -
Chamber of Commerce, expressed some reservations over the proposed amendments .
He felt an important factor is o-rhat it �aill cost in terms of delays . If, in
, fact, it eliminates a couple of steps in getting approval , then it �aould be a
good step. If the Planning Corrmission and City Council are not arilling to
relinquish the decision making, then this �aould be an additional step and o-iould
delay the process. He su99ested there is a question of how much professionalism
is needed.
?��
nted Senior Planner Pass on the preparation of �
effort. He ,
� er Renneisen compl��e ,
roblems with the method. He
anual aoalshand objectivesnbut hadfsomeY�ps a scho ar y
�ith the 9 �otations from experts in both the manual and the staff
=_d on the use of q enerals' , according to
nd read selected quotbusinessatoabe� lefteto� thedg ExPeo tant a busine 9ht' :
�nuchtoo important a
eau. He might well have added that the health is too �mP rocess• but is
eft to doctors> la�•+ to la�•+yers , educat�ts la k inhinsight and balan�ced
�cts. . . .Expert advicer0 essa�sP�hat�expeto the democratic p
>ubstitute for that P i�tensity of kno��iledge and devobu��shouldenot
sense> they compensate by
ular profession. . . . P Expert opinion is an element in the
Ex ert advice should always be sou9 .
clusive on matters of public policy• o���y �tself. There are many
�tion of public policy>
but not the Pub>>� P ens�ble in reaching �•+�se
olicy, but there is only one expert--en educated and articula e
;s and technicians whose judgments are i�d�SP
ions on public p
enry.'� �n to be done , but disagrees
ublic policy: He v+ould feel more comfortable
enneisen remarked that he a9rees with �•+hat is try 9 body to the Planning
having a board of experts makin9 P re ared toni9ht to discuss
a design review cortm�ttee �•�hich acts aS On thdou9hr the staff report to discuss
ission. He reported that if reearedmtos9 n is p P
an approach as that, he �SO sible.
oas ��ihich �•+ould make that p �o�ission
ed development plans couldtteeeupbnthhichathenCommission
gested that if ths Design t�anual is adoptedland a Desi9n Revie�•+ Committee �
�ished, then propo
� a recommendation from the Desi9n Review �o� builder.s, and
ld act. landscape architects,
useful and valuable to the Planning Commission, but
added that advice from exoerts--architects, �b��� policy
itractors--�•+ould be extremely
is opposed to havin9 a board comprised of such experts mak�n9 P
� finn and final dec�sions • inion that the City should be looking for less
mmissioner Smith expressed the oP
osition to the entire proposal--both
vernment instead of more. He voiced his oPP
Revie�� Cortm�ttee. �ohnson, that
ie Desi9n t%ianual and the Des�g�Johnson, seconded by Commissioner R.
t was moved by Commissio�er G• �QUncil appeal Section 19.28•150 of the
he CoRanission recortmend that the City
hula V
ista hlunicipal Code, ��+hich is entitled "Site Plan and Architectural Review•'
"he motion carried by the follo�•�in9 vote:
AYES:
Commiss�oners G. Johnson, R. Johnson, Chandler and Pressutti
S: Commissioners Sm�th, Renneisen and 0'Neil �ohnson, that
�EN7: �one Conunissioner R.
Council enact the proposed amendments relating to
It �.�as moved by Commissioner G. Johnson, seconded by
he Commission recommends Zone and P�hiodifyin9 District, as contai�ed in the staff
�si9n control in the R-3
eport> into ordinance.-
The motion passed by the follo�•+in9 vote:
Johnson, R. Johnson, Chandler and Pressutti
AYES: Cortc��ss�oners G. .
- Gcc:�is��oners Smith, Renneisen and 0'Neill
AB�E„i: :�r.�
I � �� -
� !t �,_� moved by Comnissiur;er G. ,;or„�s•���, s�c_.:._�� oy Corunissioner R. Johnson, that
the Planning Commission recormnends that the City Council enact the proposed amend-
ments as stated in tfie sta�i reoort, to provide for the creation and operation of
the Design Review Corrmiittee.
, The motion carried by the follotiaing vote: `
AYES: Cortmissioners G. Johnson, R. Johnson, Chandler and Pressutti
NOES: Commissioners Smith, Renneisen and 0'P�eill
ABSEilT: None
Comnissioner Renneisen asked that the contents of the Design hlanual be further
discussed. He pointed out that under paragraph 15 of the glossary of terms, it
states, "Texture is a favorite term of land planners , landscape architects and
architects. " He felt that statement does not have a place in a glossary. He
suggested that the paragraph be changed to read, "Texture can be defined as the
identifying quality. . . ." thus eliminating the first sentence of that paragraph.
Senior Planner Pass pointed out some minor corrections and changes needed to make
the o-�ording consistent throughout the report.
Comnissioner Pressutti questioned the use o` the �•iork "preparators" and asked
that it be changed to "preparers".
It �•�as moved by Cortenissioner G. Johnson, seconded by Commissioner R. Johnson,
, that the Cortunission recommend that the City Council adopt the Design Manual of the
City of Chula Vista �aith the corrections as requested by Comnissioners Renneisen
and Pressutti , and by Senior Planner Pass. �
The motion passed by the follo�•+ing vote:
AYES: Commissioners G. Johnson, R. Johnson, Chandler, Pressutti & 0'Neill
PJOES: Commissioners Renneisen and Smith
ABSENT: None
DIRECTOR'S REPORT
Director of Planning Peterson noted that next l•:ednesday, September 21st, is the
regular date for a study session; also that the business meeting scheduled for the
follovring t•Jednesday, September 28th, has a very light agenda with no public hearings.
He suggested that the Commission postpone the study session to September 28 and
devote tfiat regular meeting mainly to the topics scheduled for the study session.
The Corrmission concurred ���ith the change of schedule with the provision that the
meeting of September 28 be convened at 5:00 p.m. and adjourned for dinner at 7:00 p.m.
' COMMISSIOPI COt4MENTS
Commissioner 0' P�eill asked what the relationship �•�ould be between the proposed
Design Revieo-� CortQnittee and the Town Centre Design Review Board and if there might
be a conflict between the t�•�o.
, Director of Planning Peterson advised he could see no reason for conflict between
the Design Revie�•i Committee and the To�an Centre Design Revie�a Board. If a separate
review cortmittee is set up for the Bayfront redevelopment area that would also be
a separate jurisdiction and there would be no overlapping of responsibility.
� � � �