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HomeMy WebLinkAboutcc min 2005/08/18 MINUTES OF ADJOURNED REGULAR MEETINGS OF THE CITY COUNCIL AND PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF CHULA VISTA August 18, 2005 6:00 P.M. Adjourned Regular Meetings of the City Council and Planning Commission of the City of Chula Vista were called to order at 6:37 p.m. in the Council Chambers, 276 Fourth Avenue, Chula Vista, California. On roll call, there were: PRESENT: Councilmembers: McCann, Rindone, and Mayor Padilla Planning Commissioners: Cortes, Felber, Tripp, Bensoussan, Nordstrom, Horn ABSENT: Councilmembers: Castaneda, Davis (excused) Planning Commissioners: Chair Madrid ALSO PRESENT: City Attorney Moore, City Manager Rowlands, and Assistant City Clerk Norris PUBLIC HEARING 1. GENERAL PLAN UPDATE - OVERVIEW OF WESTERN CHULA VISTA LAND USE AND TRANSPORTATION PROPOSALS, AND PROPOSED DRAFT EDITS TO THE DRAFT GENERAL PLAN UPDATE DOCUMENT. This was the third in a series of three General Plan Update (GPU) workshops with the Planning Commission and City Council and focused on the Land Use and Transportation proposals in western Chula Vista, including both the Southwest and Northwest Planning Areas. The purpose of the workshop was to provide information to, and allow questions and dialog among, the Commissioners and Council toward preparing them in advance of taking action on the GPU at public hearings currently anticipated for October 2005. Notice of the hearing was given in accordance with legal requirements, and the hearing was held on the date and at the time specified in the notice. Mayor Padilla opened the public hearing. Commissioner Horn announced that, upon recommendation by the City Attorney, he would recuse himself from participation in the joint workshop since his current employer represents a client who owns land in the upper northwest sector of the City. Commissioner Nordstrom also announced that he would recuse himself due to a potential financial conflict of interest. Commissioners Horn and Nordstrom then left the meeting and did not return. ACTION: Commissioner Cortes moved to excuse the absence of Chair Madrid. Commissioner Tripp seconded the motion, and it carried 4-0. PUBLIC HEARING (Continued) City Attorney Moore stated that the Council and Planning Commission would be considering Genera] Plan Updates for the Southwest and Northwest quadrants of the City. To that end, the Fair Po]itical Practices Commission has opined that, because there are proposed land use designation modifications to property located within 500 feet of Counci]member Rindone's property, he should not participate in those portions of the discussion. Ms. Moore stated that the workshop would be formatted to discuss those portions of the Genera] Plan Update that are not within 500 feet of Counci]member Rindone's property. Therefore, Counci]member Rindone would not have a conflict of interest and would be fully eligible to participate in the items presented. Mayor Padilla referenced the following written communications received on the dais: Letter from Todd Ga]arneau, Vice President of The Corky McMillin Companies, dated August ] 8, 2005, regarding the Chu]a Vista General Plan Update. Letter from Michae] Green, dated August 18, 2005, regarding the enforcement of non- conforming land use for existing properties and the impacts on property owners as a result of future zoning changes. Letter from Assembly Member Juan Vargas, dated August] 7,2005, expressing support for the Preferred Plan and proposed amendments from Mayor Padilla. Planning and Bui]ding Director Sandoval explained the workshop format. Advanced Planning Manager Batche]der presented an overview of the General Plan Update. At 6:58 p.m., Commissioner Cortes stated that he had a potential conflict of interest with regard to the Southwest portion of the City, and he requested to be recused from discussions during that portion of the workshop. At 6:59 p.m., Mayor Padilla announced a brief recess. At 7:00 p.m., Mayor Padilla reconvened the meeting with Counci]members McCann and Rindone and Commissioners Cortes, Felber, Tripp, Bensoussan present. City Attorney Moore reported that the workshop had been formatted in such a manner that Commissioner Cortes could not recuse himself for only a portion of the discussions. To that end, Ms. Moore explained that the Planning Commission would, therefore, not have a quorum, so could not take any official action or adopt any official motions, but could make comments for Council consideration. Commissioner Cortes left the meeting and the Planning Commission was officially adjourned. Mayor Padilla noted the following additional written correspondence received on the dais: Letter from Hans Busch, dated August ]8, 2005 expressing opposition to high-rise buildings and the Espanada project; and a magazine article dated August] 4, 2005 referring to the lack of sunlight in Lower Manhattan as a result of tall, closely packed buildings. Advanced Planning Manager Batchelder then continued with his presentation. Director Sandoval introduced the plan consultants, Walter Kieser and Jim Musbasch, Economic and Planning Systems, and William Anderson, Environmental Research Associates. Each consultant then talked about the growth management program and the dynamics of revitalization efforts for the City. Page 2 - City CouncillPlanning Commission Minutes August 18, 2005 l. .._.__.. PUBLIC HEARING (Continued) Mayor Padilla discussed the basic framework of his proposed amendments, including adoption of staffs recommendation that the existing transit focused areas at E Street and Interstate 5, H Street trolley and Interstate 5, Third A venue and H Street, the Eastern Urban Center, and the bayfront (in a separate process) would remain; that there would be language that would restrict construction over eight stories to having to meet the very strict set of criteria set forth by staff; to request that the Council amend the segment of H Street that connects the transit focused area between Third A venue and H Street and Broadway and H Street as a transit focused corridor and place that entire area in a special study; to add historic preservation language that establishes a formalized process for historic preservation, adopt a historic preservation ordinance, and conduct a comprehensive, citywide review of all of the City's historic sites; to add environmental justice language including policies to avoid the siting of industrial facilities and uses that propose a hazard to health and safety in proximity to schools or residential dwellings; to pursue as a goal 40 percent of our citywide electricity supply from clean renewable sources by 2017; to add a policy that would avoid siting a new or re-powered power plant, generation facilities or major toxic emitters within 1,000 feet of sensitive receptors or receivers (i.e. human beings, particular plant and life species); add an amendment recommended by the Steering Committee to remove the Third Avenue and H Street transit focus area and institute a citywide height limit of90-feet, and to add the eighth theme, the "harmonizing change" theme. Katy Wright, representing Sweetwater Union High School District, spoke in support of the Preferred Plan Alternative, which she believed would support the district's objectives to fund future school facilities and administrative facilities on the west side. She added that the tax increment yielded trom development would be instrumental in funding the modernization and new construction of schools on the west side. Jack Blakely, representing the Chula Vista Downtown Business Association, spoke in favor of the Preferred Plan, stating that the plan would enhance the community and particularly the downtown area by creating new jobs and putting "feet on the street." Lisa Moctezuma, representing the Chula Vista Downtown Business Association and Moctezuma Books, spoke on behalf of Dan Biggs, a member of the Chula Vista Downtown Business Association, who was not present at the meeting but who indicated support of the Preferred Plan, which he believed would add parks, upgrade and improve schools, and add affordable housing. He was also in support of the Mayor's proposal regarding the H Street corridor amendment. Ms. Moctezuma also spoke in support of the Preferred Plan and the Mayor's proposed amendments regarding the H Street corridor, stating that the revitalization of downtown Chula Vista would keep millions of dollars in the City and bolster community pride. She added that encompassing Third Avenue and H Street as a transit focus area would enhance connectivity between eastern and western Chula Vista and that consideration should be given to constructing a Transamerica building in the City. She believed that the most exciting cityscape and signature architecture should be focused in the City's core. Dr. Richard Freeman, representing the Downtown Business Association, stated that the downtown business community needs the Preferred Plan to help jump start revitalization of the downtown area while maintaining its historic character. Judy Cave spoke in support of the Community Character Alternative, commenting that the east side of Chula Vista has been well plarmed with good landscaping throughout the area, and that the west side deserves no less. She talked about the lack of charm and uniqueness of the Gateway Business Center and believed that the inclusion of a fountain, shade trees and benches would have provided a lovely oasis in a very busy area. She was opposed to high-rise buildings, she believed greater density would lead to increased traffic congestion, and automobile and noise pollution. Page 3 - City Council/Planning Commission Minutes August 18. 2005 PUBLIC HEARING (Continued) Uri Felman encouraged the Council to move forward and allow the City to grow. He wholeheartedly supported the master plan amendment. Greg Mattson, representing downtown business owners, spoke in support of the Preferred Plan Alternative and the Mayor's proposed amendments. He added that the H Street corridor is very important as a connection between eastern and western Chula Vista. Earl Jentz spoke in support of the General Plan Update Steering Committee recommendations for the Harmonizing Change element and a 90-foot height limit with four exceptions in the City. Sherm Harmer, representing Urban Housing Partners, spoke in support of the Preferred Plan and the Mayor's proposed amendments. He explained that the property tax benefits from redevelopment would provide funds to help improve the infrastructure of the community and help support its quality oflife. He believed that it would be sensible to leave some flexibility in the plan as it relates to height. He added that reconnecting people with transit would be a wise investment for the community. Billy Cox, representing the Chula Vista Police Officers Association, spoke in favor of the Preferred Plan and Mayor's proposed amendments, stating that the collaborative efforts between City staff, the Planning Commission, and the community is reflective of what needs to be considered for the City and its economic and character development to ensure changes for the better. Georgie Stillman stated that it was inappropriate to allow high rise development at Third A venue and H Street and that it would negatively impact the older historic and stable family neighborhoods in the area. She suggested that the transit focus center with mixed uses be moved further west on H Street. Susan Skillman, representing the Chula Vista Chamber of Commerce, spoke in favor of the Preferred Plan, which she believed represented an investment in the City's economy and community members and which would breathe new life into the downtown area. She stated that redevelopment tax dollars must, by law, go to affordable housing and for improvements to and construction of schools. In addition, redevelopment would also provide revenue for increased police and fire services. Aileen Price opposed the prospect of high-rise buildings of 15 stories, but favored mid-rise and lower buildings. She spoke in support of community character. Mitch Mitchell, representing the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce, stated that redevelopment is a tool that creates opportunities for Chula Vista to playa vital role in recruitment and retention of quality companies and employees, and allows people to live and realize the great American dream. Jackie McQuade stated that building height restrictions of 40 to 90 feet should be immediately imposed citywide, including on the bayfront. She stated that Chula Vista is at a crucial fork in the road and must decide whether to enhance the quality of life by preserving the character of the west side or s~ll out to the powerful developers. She added that high-rises create total gridlock and obstruct City views. Deacon Greg Smyth, representing St. Rose of Lima, urged the Council to adopt the Preferred Plan with the Mayor's proposed amendments, which he believed had the best interests of Chula Vista at heart. He expressed the urgent need for redevelopment on the west side to enhance job growth and generate tax revenue for required civic improvements, street repairs and infrastructure enhancements. He also spoke of the need for additional affordable housing. Deacon Smyth also spoke on behalf of Father John Dolan of St. Rose of Lima, who was not present at the meeting, but who indicated support of the Preferred Plan, which would provide opportunities for affordable housing communities and new jobs. Page 4 - City CouncillPlanning Commission Minutes August 18. 2005 PUBLIC HEARING (Continued) Peter Watry spoke about the proposed increase in density in northwest Chula Vista, a planned 40 percent increase in dwelling units in the area over the next General Plan cycle, which he believed was too much too soon. He urged the Council to instruct staff to lower the increase to 20-25 percent over the next cycle. Terry Thomas, representing the environmental community and the General Plan Update Steering Committee, spoke in favor of the community character aspect, including the harmonizing of construction development and the 90-foot height limit. Regarding environmental justice, Ms. Thomas requested that major toxic air emitters not be allowed within 1,500 feet of sensitive receptors and vice versa. With reference to East H Street, she stated that it would be a misconception to believe that transit corridors and transit centers must include high-rises. She also suggested looking at the eco- economics of environmentally sustainable green technology. Mary Salas spoke in support of the Preferred Plan and talked about the smart mixed-use development that has occurred in San Diego's Uptown Hillcrest area. She favored seeing similar development in Chula Vista that would offer wonderful opportunities within the community. Lisa Cohen, representing the Chula Vista Chamber of Commerce, expressed the Board of Director's full support of the Preferred Plan, stating that the proposed plan translates into more revenue to provide school improvements, affordable housing, parks, and community gatherings that would be integrated into downtown. Ms. Cohen also spoke on behalf of William A. Hall, President of the Chula Vista Chamber of Commerce, who was not present at the meeting, but who wished to express his solid support for the Preferred Plan, which he believed would not only raise millions of new tax dollars, but also help create scores of new businesses and, in turn, hundreds of new jobs, and would also serve to connect the integral part of the bayfront. Eli Ring opposed the plan update, stating that lower income residents would be replaced with higher income residents for the purpose of economic growth. He also opposed living in higher density housing. Jon Reed, Branch Manager of Countrywide Home Loans, spoke in support of the Preferred Plan and the Mayor's proposed amendments. He stated that a critical ingredient of successful growth is a balanced plan to integrate commerce, housing, transportation, and services, while preserving and enhancing the character of the community. He added that the proposed plan would also produce much needed revenue for police, fire, and other valuable community services. Jerome Sandoval stated that Chula Vista has a great opportunity to be a city that preserves historic neighborhoods, restores older, blighted neighborhoods, and creates vibrant new neighborhoods. He felt his students from Castle Park High School, their families, and less affluent areas were not represented by the community groups. He added that community character should not be defined by the height of buildings. He urged the Council to move forward with the Preferred Plan and the Mayor's proposed amendments. Patricia Aguilar, representing Crossroads II, spoke about the issue of "character," illustrating the differences in how the cities of Oakland and Pasadena are pursuing their downtown redevelopment. She explained that the City of Pasadena has undertaken a redevelopment approach of incorporating new elements with the old and maintaining community character, medium density residential projects of between three and seven stories, light rail, and combined underground parking and residential and commercial development. She felt that the issue of height had nothing to do with density, stating that the City can get all the density it needs and still maintain a reasonable height and character. She suggested that the Council amend the proposed plan to include the two amendments recommended by the General Plan Update Steering Committee: 1) Regarding harmonizing change, that as a new building comes in, it does not have to replicate what currently exists, but does respect the existing structures and is compatible with the traditions and character of Chula Vista; and 2) establish height limits in certain areas of the City. Page 5 - City CouncillPlanning Commission Minutes August 18. 2005 PUBLIC HEARING (Continued) Laura Hunter, representing the Environmental Health Coalition, spoke about the importance of environmental justice and the safe location of sensitive receptors in the land use planning efforts, as well as job quality and affordable housing. She requested consideration of increased flexibility and location in the areas of H Street and E Street, and that, should residential be included in the mixed use, they need to be located outside of 500 feet from the freeway. She also questioned how job quality, affordable housing, construction, and energy would be addressed. She stated that the Environmental Health Coalition is in support of the Preferred Alternative Plan with the amendments noted in the Mayor's memo, as long as people are not located within 500 feet of the freeway. Allison Rolfe, representing San Diego Baykeeper, spoke in support of establishing H Street as a corridor and special study area and of the Mayor's proposed amendments. She stated that downtowns are the best place for redevelopment and growth. She added that allowing flexibility and increased intensity in downtown areas takes pressure off other areas where high intensity development is not appropriate. With regard to high-rises, she spoke in support of the General Plan's requirements for signature architecture, clear public benefits, and regulations to deal with height, massing and appropriate transitions. With reference to transitions, she requested consideration be given to ensuring that an analysis of impacts to single-family units is included. Additionally, she believed that the special study area should require that specific design guidelines related to aesthetics be established, as well as standards for ensuring sustainability, such as consideration for lead certification requirements. In standards regarding siting, she suggested that the location of high-rises in relation to the corridor itself be approximately 300 feet and no more than 500 feet from the corridor. Kathryn Lembo, representing South Bay Community Services, expressed the importance of redevelopment in the City to create a revenue stream that would provide for affordable housing that is sustainable. Ms. Lembo supported the Preferred Plan. Bob Crane suggested that the Council consider approving a more modest General Plan at first, with the option to amend it should there be a demand for higher buildings at a later time. Raul Sanchez, representing Teamsters Local 36, spoke in favor of the General Plan and Mayor's proposed amendments, and he asked the Council to consider responsible development. Art Cantu, representing Teamsters Local 36, spoke in support of plans that would place density in the appropriate areas. He believed that tall buildings couId be viable and good for the community, providing that they allow for public input and planning, sustainable jobs, and that they adequately address the infrastructure needs of all residents. He expressed support for the Preferred Plan with the inclusion of strong wage and hours standards, revenues and public input. Commissioner Tripp believed that the Preferred Plan with the Mayor's proposed amendments would offer the best opportunity for a broad policy document that would be effective for 10 to 20 years. Dana Richardson, representing Paradise Valley Hospital and the South Bay Partnership, expressed the need to see the same amenities that are on the eastern portion of the City added to the western portion in order to promote healthy and active lifestyles. She also supported the need for more parks, open spaces, and easy, efficient access to transportation. Ms. Richardson stated her support of the plan. Natasha Martinez spoke in support of the General Plan and agreed with Katy Wright, Sherm Harmer, and the Castle Park teacher. Page 6 - City Council/Planning Commission Minutes August 18, 2005 PUBLIC HEARING (Continued) Bob McAlister conveyed his support of the Preferred Plan and the H Street corridor amendment. He was excited at the prospect of increased revenues to bring parity between east-side and west-side schools. Pandra Boyle spoke in favor of the community alternative plan, community character plan, height limits, and the removal of Fourth Avenue and H Street as a location for large buildings. Gerry Loffredo spoke in opposition to high-rises and high density. He also expressed concern about the potential removal of trees in order to accommodate increased traffic. Dr. Peter Rullan, a business owner in the City, stated that the local business owners would like to see development occur. He suggested consideration of a footprint concept versus height, and building recesses that would create a smaller footprint. He spoke in favor of the Mayor's plan. Michell Rewerts stated that the area between E Street and H Street is full of apartment buildings, renters, and trailer parks, and she believed that this segment of the community is not being valued in the City's plan for revitalization on the west side. She urged the Council to value the very low-income residents of Chula Vista. Nick Aguilar, representing the San Diego County Board of Education, spoke in support of the Preferred Plan with the suggested amendments by the General Plan Steering Committee. He stated that the plan must facilitate orderly development and growth management to maximize economic development in order to have redevelopment that supports quality school facilities. He expressed the need to ensure that sites have been identified in the plan for future schools downtown. Phil Stone commented that the area is running out of land and that it was, therefore, essential for western Chula Vista to have urban development that goes up rather than out, a plan that embraces smart growth, and a plan that encourages quality builders and developers to come to Chula Vista. He spoke in support of the Preferred Plan. David Hoffman, representing Hoffman Insurance, spoke in support of the Preferred Plan and the Mayor's proposed amendments. He felt that mid- to high-rise development along the transit corridor would be appropriate for downtown Chula Vista and would bring economic improvements to the area, as well as vibrancy and vitality to the urban core. Germaine Johnson was opposed to high-rise buildings. Tina Medina, representing the Chula Vista Convention and Visitor's Bureau, spoke in support of the Preferred Plan and the Mayor's proposed amendments. She believed that the long-term results of the plan would enhance the quality of life for residents and businesses in Chula Vista and make downtown more attractive to visitors. In addition, the plan would create more revenue for local parks, new restaurants, and businesses. Susan Walter requested consideration of the Harmonizing Change and Community Character plan. She stated that incorporating the proposed H Street corridor amendment into the plan at such short notice was unfair and created mistrust in City government. Cauxto Pena offered his support of the General Plan as it stands, stating that it would prepare Chula Vista for the future. Page 7 - City CouncillPlanning Commission Minutes August 18. 2005 PUBLIC HEARING (Continued) Parks Pemberton spoke in opposition to the Preferred Plan. He expressed concern about eminent domain, and he questioned each Councilmember as to their views regarding eminent domain. It was the consensus of the Council that, in accordance with current City Policy, they do not support the use of eminent domain for private residences. Mr. Pemberton talked about high-rise density zones at trolley stations, stating that the people living in the high-rises would continue to use their vehicles, while those people who would take advantage of the trolley would be driven out. Scott Vinson conveyed the need to stop making changes to the plan and to move forward. He spoke in favor of the Preferred Plan and the Mayor's proposed amendments. Chris Boyd, CEO of Sharp Chula Vista Medical Center, agreed with the Castle Park teacher, and spoke in support of the Preferred Plan and the Mayor's proposed amendments. Chad Blum, representing the San Diego Labor Council, spoke in full support of the Preferred Plan and Mayor's proposed amendments, which he believed would create economic growth, support environmental justice, and bring good jobs with livable wages and benefits to Chula Vista. David Ruch spoke in support of the Preferred Plan and Mayor's proposed amendments. Johnny Simpson, representing I.B.E.W. #569, was supportive of planning that would place high density development uses in appropriate places, and he felt confident that the City would work to ensure balanced communities. He urged the inclusion of the Council's energy goals in the plan and encouraged the Council to implement the Preferred Plan and Mayor's proposed amendments. Nicholas Segura, representing I.B.E.W. #569, stated that regardless of what type of construction occurs, opportunities should be given to local citizens to work and train on job sites utilizing standard wages and benefits. He spoke in support of taller buildings along the transit corridors and stated that it was critical to integrate infrastructure needs with housing and commercial needs. Daniel Machain spoke in support of responsible planning that would create economic growth, environmental justice, and good paying jobs with benefits. He felt that appropriate high-rise construction could bring employment and housing opportunities, and would benefit the community. Kris Hartnett, representing the San Diego County Building Trades Council, conveyed his intent to be a participant and partner to assist in supporting the Preferred Plan and Mayor's proposed amendments, and to bring quality apprenticeship training and a local hire component. Peter Mabrey, representing Scripps Mercy Hospital, spoke in support of the Preferred Plan and Mayor's proposed amendments. He believed that the proposed changes for downtown would offer increased health care services for the community. Ian Gill stated that the Preferred Plan reflects a real potential for revitalization and a remarkable restraint in respecting the scale and bulk of the single-family neighborhoods in Chula Vista that are a unique characteristic of the City. He believed that development on Third A venue offers the potential for a wide variety of development that would not only enhance and generate activity and retail, but also provide funding for schools and affordable housing. He was opposed to height caps, which he felt legislated a uniform bulk and massing that is not in the best interest of long-range planning. Mr. Gill urged the Council to consider and promote the Preferred Plan with the Mayor's proposed amendments. Page 8 - City Council/Planning Commission Minutes August 18. 2005 PUBLIC HEARING (Continued) Mark Croshier stated that progress must occur in the City if the citizens want to continue to have the best and the highest paid fire and police personnel. He stated that redevelopment from Third Avenue to the bayrront would bring a better quality of life to the area. He also spoke in support of moving or refurbishing the power plant. Rudy Ramirez expressed disappointment that discussions have resulted in divided community support for either a Preferred Plan or a Community Character Alternative. He stated that there are certain benefits to be gained rrom both plans. He acknowledged the necessity for increased density and high paying jobs in the community. He stated that high-rises that go too high create a disconnect with the community and a change in the character ofthe community, which he felt needed to be preserved. Mariana Lopez spoke in support of the Preferred Plan and the Mayor's proposed amendments. She conveyed the need for flexibility with regard to high-rises and continued discussions regarding parking, health issues, and intersections. Chris Lewis, representing the Chula Vista Chamber of Commerce, stated that while there are thoughtful arguments against certain height limits set forth in the plan, there are also equally good arguments for maintaining the provision to allow for mid to high-rise in certain areas. He believed that it would be disastrous to restrict the plan by capping the height limits, stating that higher buildings would allow for more public amenities such as parks and green areas, and that there would be provisions to allow discretionary review of high-rise projects. He asked the Council to look at the future of the community and adopt the Preferred Plan and Mayor's proposed amendments. Angela Allen expressed concern about rapid development and was hopeful that the Council would consider the concerns of the older residents in the City. She questioned why high-rises were not built in EastLake during its development. Mitch Thompson, Chair of the General Plan Update Committee, spoke about the workings of the General Plan Update Steering Committee and his support for height limits. Denise Knobloch opposed high-rises over seven stories, and she expressed concern about associated parking. She talked about potential issues regarding increased traffic and expressed concern about low-income housing. With no further members of the public wishing to speak, Mayor Padilla closed the public hearing. Commissioner Bensoussan spoke in support of the Preferred Plan with the Steering Committee recommendations, including the harmonizing change theme. She also spoke in support of the Mayor's proposed amendments. With reference to high-rise buildings, she proposed that a criterion be added for regional significance. Commissioner Felber spoke in support of the Preferred Plan with the Mayor's proposed amendments. He felt it would be fair to study the height issue, and he cautioned against saturating the housing demand. Page 9 - City Council/Planning Commission Minutes August 18. 2005 PUBLIC HEARING (Continued) Mayor Padilla spoke about the downtown core, which he believed was large enough and diverse enough to accommodate a variety of land uses and building architecture, and provide jobs, housing, inrrastructure, park spaces and schools that would uplift the west side. He stated that he would support the Preferred Plan and expressed the need to move forward with the special study of the transit focus corridor to establish appropriate zoning, densities and height. He asked for Council support of the Preferred Plan as well as his amendments. He also stated that he could support the Harmonizing Change language, recommended by the General Plan Steering Committee, if it is well drafted and consistent, and as long as everything doesn't have to be built the same way as what's already there. He also indicated that he would not support a 90- foot height limit citywide. Councilmember Rindone asked for clarification regarding the development of Route 627 and its potential effects on the transit focus area. Robert Leiter, Planning Director for SANDAG, responded that Route 627 is a proposed bus rapid transit route that would extend along H Street, rrom Interstate 5 past Interstate 805 and to Southwestern College. It was included in the adopted 2030 Regional Transportation Plan by SANDAG. He explained that SANDAG would be working closely with the City in updating the plan to ensure timely and appropriate transit service for the City. Councilmember Rindone also acknowledged and thanked David Krogh for his voluntary participation in the transportation planning meetings. He then spoke in support of the Preferred Plan and amendments for the H Street corridor, stating that the plan would provide opportunities for the west side of the City to grow and prosper. Councilmember McCann believed that the Preferred Plan would provide funding for schools, parks, roads, police, fire, and affordable housing. He stated that a study of the H Street corridor would assist in retaining hospital facilities and improving health care for the citizens. He stated that the process must continue to be a public process and must include Scripps and ChuIa Vista Shopping Center as major stakeholders in the plan. ACTION: Mayor Padilla then moved to (I) proceed with the Preferred Plan, direct staff to finalize and release the revised General Plan Update text, and authorize staff to include those edits in the EIR analysis; (2) amend and revise the GPU text to designate H Street, rrom the H StreetlI-5 trolley station easterly to the future transit station area at Third Avenue, as a Transit Focus Corridor special study area; (3) direct staff to evaluate the land use designations/intensities, height, urban design and form and related development regulations for the transit focus study area after the General Plan Update is adopted and return to Council within six months of that date with a completed study; (4) direct staff to amend the draft to include harmonizing change language that is consistent with and reflective of what the City is doing with regard to stable neighborhoods, historical preservation and maintenance of form; and (5) include all ofthe language contained in the Mayor's memorandum to the Planning Commission and the Council, as follows: Historic Preservation: LUT 11.1 (Replacement): Establish a formalized process for historic preservation by evaluating requirements for certified local government status as defined by the state historic preservation office. LUT 11.3 (Revised): Adopt historic preservation ordinance that implements the goals established by the City Council in February 2000; the City Council strategic themes of2003; and the document "Evaluation of Historic Preservation in Chula Vista." Page 10 - City CouncillPlanning Commission Minutes August 18, 2005 PUBLIC HEARING (Continued) LUT 11.4 (Revised): Conduct an objective and comprehensive citywide review of Chula Vista's historical assets for the purpose of establishing a list of buildings appropriate for formal historical designation. Environmental Justice: Policy EE 23.3 be amended to read: Avoid citing industrial facilities and uses that pose a significant hazard to human health and safety in proximity to schools or residential dwellings. Policy EE 7.5 be amended to read: Pursue 40% citywide electricity supply from clean renewable sources by 2017. Policy EE 6.4 be amended to read: Avoid citing new or re-powered energy generation facilities and other major toxic air emitters within 1000 feet of the sensitive receiver or the placement of a sensitive receiver within 1000 feet of a major toxic emitter. Councilmember Rindone seconded the motion, and it carried 3-0. ACTION: Councilmember Rindone moved to amend the motion to specifically exclude the property known as Holiday Gardens trom the mixed-use transit focus area to high density residential use, unless a majority ofthe property owners request to be included in the area. Councilmember McCann seconded the motion, and it carried 3-0. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS There were none. ADJOURNMENT At II :38 p.m., Mayor Padilla adjourned the City Council to its Regular Meeting on August 23, 2005 at 6:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers. J~A~ Donna Norris, CMC, Assistant City Clerk Page 11 - City CouncillPlanning Commission Minutes August 18. 2005