HomeMy WebLinkAboutRDA Packet 2001/05/08
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ON OF
CHUlA VISTA
TUESDAY, MAY 8,2001 COUNCIL CHAMBERS
6:00 P.M. PUBLIC SERVICES BUILDING
(immediately following the City Council meeting)
JOINT MEETING OF THE
REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY I CITY COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF CHULA VISTA
CALL TO ORDER
ROLL CALL
Agency/Council Members Davis, Padilla, Rindone, Salas; Chair/Mayor Horton
CONSENT CALENDAR
The staff recommendations regarding the following item(s) listed under the Consent Calendar will be enacted
by the Agency/Council by one motion without discussion uniess an Agency/Council member, a member of the
public or City staff requests that the item be pulled for discussion. If you wish to speak on one of these items,
please fill out a "Request to Speak Form" available in the lobby and submit it to the Secretary of the
Redevelopment Agency or the City Clerk prior to the meeting. Items pulled from the Consent Calendar will be
discussed after Action items. Items pulled by the public will be the first items of business.
1. APPROVAL OF MINUTES - Staff recommends the Redevelopment Agency/
City Council approve the minutes of the regular meetings of the
Redevelopment Agency and adjourned meetings of the City Council for April
24 and May 1, 2001.
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS
This is an opportunity for the general public to address the Redevelopment Agency on any subject matter
within the Agency's jurisdiction that is not an item on this agenda. (State law, however, generally prohibits
the Redevelopment Agency from taking action on any issues not included on the posted agenda.) If you wish
to address the Agency on such a subject, please complete the "Request to Speak Under Oral Communications
Form" available in the lobby and submit it to the Secretary to the Redevelopment Agency or City Cierk prior to
the meeting. Those who wish to speak, please give your name and address for record purposes and follow up
action.
PUBLIC HEARING
The following itemls) have been advertised and/or posted as public hearings as required by law. if you wish to
speak to any item, pi ease fill out the "Request to Speak Form" available in the lobby and submit it to the
Redevelopment Agency or the City Clerk prior to the meeting.
2. JOINT REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY / CITY COUNCIL PUBLIC HEARING: TO
CONSIDER ADOPTION OF AN URGENCY ORDINANCE AND A NEW
ORDINANCE TO PROHIBIT THE ESTABLISHMENT OR EXPANSION OF
OUTDOOR STORAGE USES; AND TOLLING THE OPERATION OF EXISTING
OUTDOOR STORAGE USES WITHIN THE REDEVELOPMENT PROJECT
AREAS [Community Development Director]
STAFF RECOMMENDATION: Redevelopment Agency/City Council continue
the public hearing to May 29, 2001.
3. a. PUBLIC HEARING: CONSIDERATION OF AN EXTENSION OF AN EXISTING
SPECIAL USE PERMIT FOR THE CONTINUATION OF AN AUTO
DISMANTLING AND RECYCLING BUSINESS AT 800-834 AND 825 ENERGY
WAY-Ecology Auto Wrecking is requesting the continuation of an existing
Conditional Use Permit for automotive dismantling and the sale of auto
parts, and scrap metal collection, compaction, cutting, shredding in
preparation for the scrap market, and other related uses. The Agency
approved a 13 year extension on 12/8/92, which moved the expiration date
of the permit until 2005. On 1111 0/00, staff received an application for an
extension of this permit until 2025. The Planning and Environmental
Manager for the Community Development Department has determined that
no new environmental impacts that have not been previously addressed will
occur and the project is consistent with the previous environmental review.
[Community Development Director] (Continued from the meeting of 5/1/01 I
b. AGENCY RESOLUTION 1726 APPROVING THE EXTENSION OF THE
SPECIAL USE PERMIT SUPO-01-01 UNTIL DECEMBER 31, 2017 FOR
ECOLOGY AUTO WRECKING LOCATED AT 800-834 AND 825 ENERGY
WAY AND DIRECTING STAFF TO PROCEED WITH AN EVALUATION OF
THE POTENTIAL FOR ALTERNATE USES FOR PROPERTIES NOW HOUSING
AUTO WRECKERS AND RECYCLERS PER THE DIRECTION OF THE
ADOPTED FIVE YEAR IMPLEMENTATION PLAN FOR THE OTAY VALLEY
ROAD REDEVELOPMENT PLAN
STAFF RECOMMENDATION: Redevelopment Agency adopt the resolution.
OTHER BUSINESS
4. DIRECTOR'S REPORT/SI
5. CHAIR/MAYOR REPORT(SI
6. AGENCY/COUNCIL COMMENTS
Redevelopment Agency, May 8, 2001 Page 2
ADJOURNMENT
The meeting will adjourn to the regular meeting of the Redevelopment Agency on
May 15, 2001 at 6:00 p.m., immediately following the City Council meeting in the
City Council Chambers.
CLOSED SESSION
Unless Agency Counsel, the Executive Director, City Councilor the Redevelopment Agency states otherwise at
this time, the Agency/Council will discuss and deiiberate on the following item(sl of business which are
permitted by law to be the subject of a closed session discussion, and which the Agency/Council is advised
should be discussed in closed session to best protect the interests of the City. The Agency/Council is required
by law to return to open session, issue any reports of final action taken in closed session, and the votes taken.
However, due to the typical length of time taken up by closed sessions, the videotaping will be terminated at
this point in order to save costs so that the Agency/Council's return from closed session, reports of final action
taken, and adjournment will not be videotaped. Nevertheless, the report of final action taken will be recorded
in the minutes which will be available in the Office of the Secretary to the Redevelopment Agency and the City
Clerk's Office.
7. CONFERENCE WITH REAL PROPERTY NEGOTIATOR --Pursuant to Government
Code Section 54956.8
a. Property: Assessor Parcel Nos. 568-270-2200; 760-106-
9205 (31,673 sq. ft. at 320 Third Avenue)
Negotiating Parties: Redevelopment Agency (Chris Salomone) and
CinemaStar/Trigild (Bill Huffman)
Under Negotiations: Price and terms for acquisition
b. Property: Assessor Parcel No. 568-270-10 (315 Fourth
Avenue)
Negotiating Parties: City Council (Sid Morris/Chris Salomone)
Under Negotiations: Lease terms
8. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL REGARDING EXISTING LITIGATION --
Pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(a)
Agency vs. Rados Bros. [Case No. GIC734557-1J
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COMPLIANCE WITH THE AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT
The City of Chula Vista, in complying with the Americans with Disabilities Act IADAI. request individuals who
require special accommodates to access, attend, and/or participate in a City meeting, activity, or service
request such accommodation at least 48 hours in advance for meetings and five days for scheduled services
and activities. Please contact the Secretary to the Redevelopment Agency for specific information at (61 g)
691-5047 or Telecommunications Devices for the Deaf ITDDI at 1619) 585-5647. California Relay Service is
also available for the hearing impaired.
Redevelopment Agency, May 8, 2001 Page 3
MINUTES OF ADJOURNED REGULAR MEETINGS OF THE
CITY COUNCIL AND THE REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY
OF THE CITY OF CHULA VISTA
April 24, 2001 6:00 p.m.
Adjourned Regular Meetings of the City Council and the Redevelopment Agency of the City of
Chula Vista were called to order at 7:58 p.m. in the Council Chambers, located in the Public
Services Building, 276 Fourth Avenue, Chula Vista, California.
ROLL CALL
PRESENT: Agency/Councilmembers Davis, Padilla, Rindone, Salas and Chair/Mayor
Horton
ABSENT: Agency/Councilmembers: None
ALSO PRESENT: Executive Director/City Manager Rowlands, Agency/City
Attorney Kaheny, Deputy City Clerk Norris
CONSENT CALENDAR
1. APPROVAL OF MINUTES of April 3 and April 10, 2001.
Staff recommendation: The Redevelopment Agency/City Council approve the minutes.
2. AGENCY RESOLUTION NO. 1719, RESOLUTION OF THE REDEVELOPMENT
AGENCY OF THE CITY OF CHULA VISTA APPROVING A CHANGE ORDER TO
AN AGREEMENT WITH URS CORPORATION FOR THE CLEAN UP OF A
CONTAMINATED HOLDING SITE LOCATED AT 4075 MAIN STREET WITHIN
THE OTAY VALLEY ROAD REDEVELOPMENT PROJECT AREA, AND
APPROPRIATING $208,336 IN UNANTICIPATED RECEIPTS FROM THE
SHINOHARA ESTATE AND $4,804 FROM THE UNAPPROPRIATED FUND
BALANCE OF THE OTAY VALLEY ROAD PROJECT AREA TO FUND THE
PROJECT
The Agency is interested in developing a 1.6-acre site in the Otay Valley Road
Redevelopment Area as an expansion to the Auto Park to generate additional jobs and
revenue in an area currently blighted. The site is unsuitable for development due to its
use as a stockpile for contaminated bum-ash waste. Owned by the Shinohara Estate, the
site was estimated to contain 34,000 cubic yards of contaminated material. During the
clean up operation, substantially more sub-surface contamination was discovered than
had been anticipated by previous fieldwork. The resolution appropriates funds, at a per-
unit rate, to pay for the clean up of the additional burn ash discovered. (Continued from
the meeting of 4/10/01 - Community Development Director)
Staff recommendation: The Redevelopment Agency adopt the resolution.
/ - l
CONSENT CALENDAR (Continued)
3. AGENCY RESOLUTION 1721, RESOLUTION OF THE REDEVELOPMENT
AGENCY OF THE CITY OF CHULA VISTA APPROVING WAIVER OF THE
TOWN CENTRE FINE ARTS FEE FOR THE GATEWAY OFFICE BUILDING
PROJECT
On June 6, 2000, the Agency granted a Disposition and Development Agreement (DDA)
for development of the Gateway Chula Vista project. A provision of the DDA requires
that the Agency make a detennination that the developer has satisfied the conditions
precedent to granting a waiver of the Fine Arts fee. (Community Development Director)
Staff recommendation: The Redevelopment Agency adopt the resolution.
ACTION: Agency/Councilmember Rindone moved to approve staff recommendations and
offered Consent Calendar Items # I through #3, headings read, texts waived. The
motion carried 5-0.
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS
There were none.
PUBLIC HEARING
4. a. PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER APPROVAL OF SPECIAL USE PERMIT TCI-
01-01 CONVERTING OFFICE SPACE TO RESIDENTIAL AT 208 THIRD AVENUE
The applicant requested a Special Use Pennit to allow the conversion of office space at
208 Third Avenue. The project is located within the Town Centre I Redevelopment
Project Area and would convert two office units from office use to residential. The
pennit request requires public hearings before the Town Centre Project Area Committee
and the Redevelopment Agency. On March 14, 2001, the Town Centre Project Area
Committee recommended approval. (Community Development Director)
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.
Chair/Mayor Horton opened the public hearing. With no members of the public wishing to
speak, she then closed the hearing.
Agencymember/Deputy Mayor Davis expressed concern as to whether or not the existence of
future businesses adjacent to the property would interfere with the residential use.
Redevelopment Manager Estes replied that the proposed buyer indicated that he would not
oppose any kind of entertaimnent uses. Deputy Mayor Davis asked staff to acquire a letter from
the buyer stating that he would not object to the possibility of mixed uses in the area and also to
include the stipulation as a provision of the Special Use Pennit.
Page 2 Council/RDA Minutes /- <Â 04/24/2001
PUBLIC HEARINGS (Continued)
ACTION: Agencymember/Deputy Mayor Davis moved to amend the Special Use Pennit as
specified and offered Agency Resolution No. 1722, heading read, text waived
AGENCY RESOLUTION 1722, RESOLUTION OF THE REDEVELOPMENT
AGENCY OF THE CITY OF CHULA VISTA GRANTING SPECIAL LAND
USE PERMIT SUP #TCI-02-01 FOR AN OFFICE TO RESIDENTIAL
CONVERSION AT 208 THIRD AVENUE
The motion carried 5-0.
ACTION ITEMS
5. AGENCY RESOLUTION 1723, RESOLUTION OF THE REDEVELOPMENT
AGENCY OF THE CITY OF CHULA VISTA APPROVING THE COMMUNITY
HOUSING IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM (CHIP) LOAN INTERNAL PROGRAM
MANUAL
On February I, 1977, Council approved the implementation of a Community Housing
Improvement Program (CHIP) to provide low interest loans and grants for low -income
residents to rehabilitate their homes. The CHIP loan program was infonnally
discontinued in 1997 due to staffing constraints and overall workload issues; however,
the CHIP grant program continued to provide assistance to both single-family homes and
mobilehomes. An additional staff person has been hired to administer the CHIP program
and update the loan program. The CHIP Loan Internal Program Manual will provide
written guidance for staff and the CHIP Committee to follow in qualifying applicants and
enforcing standards for the program. (Community Development Director)
Housing Coordinator Arroyo explained that the objective of the manual is to reactivate the CHIP
program as a component of revitalization efforts primarily focused on the western side of the
City.
Community Development Specialist Do outlined the components of the manual, stating that it
would resolve important policy issues.
ACTION: Agencymember/Deputy Mayor Davis offered Agency Resolution No. 1723,
heading read, text waived. The motion carried 5-0.
OTHER BUSINESS
6. EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR'S REPORTS
There were none.
7. CHAIR/MA YOR REPORTS
There were none.
8. AGENCY/COUNCIL COMMENTS
There were none.
Page 3 Council/RDA Minutes (- -3 04/24/2001
ADJOURNMENT
At 9:15 p.m., Chair/Mayor Horton adjourned the Redevelopment Agency meeting to the
regularly scheduled meeting of the Redevelopment Agency on May 1, 2001 at 4:00 p.m.,
immediately following the City Council meeting, in the City Council Chambers.
Respectfully submitted,
~
Lorraine Beunett, Deputy City Clerk
Page 4 CouncillRDA Minutes ! - <! 04/24/2001
MINUTES OF AN ADJOURNED REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL AND A
REGULAR MEETING OF THE REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY
OF THE CITY OF CHULA VISTA
May 1,2001 4:00 p.m.
An Adjourned Regular Meeting of the City Council and a Regular Meeting of the
Redevelopment Agency of the City of Chula Vista were called to order at 4:55 p.m. in the
Council Chambers, located in the Public Services Building, 276 Fourth Avenue, Chula Vista,
California.
ROLL CALL:
PRESENT: Agency/Councilmembers: Davis, Padilla, Rindone, Salas and
Chair/Mayor Horton
ABSENT: Agency/Councilmembers: None
ALSO PRESENT: Executive Director/City Manager Rowlands, Senior Assistant City
Attorney Moore, City Clerk Bigelow
CONSENT CALENDAR
1. REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY RESOLUTION NO. 1724 AND CITY COUNCIL
RESOLUTION NO. 2001-129, AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGERlEXECUTIVE
DIRECTOR TO SIGN PETITION PROPOSING THE ESTABLISHMENT OF A
DOWNTOWN PROPERTY-BASED BUSINESS IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT (PBID)
The proposed PBID is an assessment tool that will allow property and business owners to
better manage the Third Avenue downtown district through a self-imposed annual
assessment. The PBID will strengthen downtown's competitiveness by creating a
cleaner, safer and more inviting destination through professional management. The
PBID also establishes private sector control and accountability to carry out enhanced
services and will help capitalize on the downtown's new momentum of development
represented by Gateway Chula Vista, the new Police facility and Civic Center expansion,
and other significant new redevelopment activities. (Community Development Director)
Staff recommendation: Redevelopment Agency and City Council adopt the resolution.
2. AGENCY RESOLUTION 1725, RESOLUTION OF THE REDEVELOPMENT
AGENCY OF THE CITY OF CHULA VISTA AMENDING THE OTAY VALLEY
ROAD REDEVELOPMENT PROJECT PROCEDURES MANUAL SECTION III B
(RULES AND REGULATIONS FOR THE FILING AND PROCESSING OF PLANS
AND PROPOSALS FOR THE REDEVELOPMENT OF THE OT A Y V ALLEY ROAD
PROJECT AREA, MAJOR PROJECTS) TO ADD SUB-PARAGRAPH 3, PRECISE
PLAN PROJECTS, AND AMENDING THE OT A Y V ALLEY ROAD PROJECT AREA
IMPLEMENTATION PLAN/DESIGN MANUAL ADDENDUM TO ADD SECTION
5.3(5), ALLOWING FOR THE ADMINISTRATIVE APPROVAL OF DESIGNS AND
OWNER PARTICIPATION AGREEMENTS WITHIN AGENCY APPROVED
PRECISE PLAN DEVELOPMENTS
/- s-
CONSENT CALENDAR (Continued)
In May 1985, the Agency adopted a Projects Procedure Manual and an Implementation
Plan/Design Manual Addendum as support documents to the Otay Valley Road
Redevelopment Plan. These documents describe the processes the Agency Board should
follow and staff should use in processing development plans that are presented. It was
meant to be responsive to changing circumstances and to be amended as necessary
to facilitate the smooth and efficient processing of proposals. To allow for ample Agency
control of the project but facilitate the streamlined processing schedule desired by the
developer, the Planning and Community Development Departments request that the
Agency invoke its authority to delegate certain matters to staff; and, therefore, that
following Design Review, Planning Commission and Agency approval of the Precise
Plan, administrative approvals be allowed for the review of each development phase as
long as it is consistent with the overall Precise Plan approved for the development.
(Community Development Director)
Staff recommendation: Redevelopment Agency adopt the resolution.
ACTION: Mayor Horton moved to approve staff recommendations and offered Consent
Calendar Items #1 and #2, headings read, texts waived. The motion carried 5-0.
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS
There were none.
PUBLIC HEARING
3. a. PUBLIC HEARING FOR CONSIDERATION OF AN EXTENSION OF AN
EXISTING SPECIAL USE PERMIT FOR THE CONTINUATION OF AN AUTO
DISMANTLING AND RECYCLING BUSINESS AT 800-834 AND 825 ENERGY
WAY
Ecology Auto Wrecking is requesting the continuation of an existing Conditional Use
Pennit for automotive dismantling and the sale of auto parts, and scrap metal collection,
compaction, cutting, shredding in preparation for the scrap market, and other related uses.
The Agency approved a 13-year extension on 12/8/92, which moved the expiration date
of the pennit until 2005. On 11110/00, staff received an application for an extension of
this pennit until 2025. The Plauning and Environmental Manager for the Community
Development Department has detennined that no new environmental impacts that have
not been previously addressed will occur and the project is consistent with the previous
environmental review. (Community Development Director)
b. AGENCY RESOLUTION NO. 1726 APPROVING THE EXTENSION OF THE
SPECIAL USE PERMIT SUPO-OI-OI UNTIL DECEMBER 31, 2017 FOR ECOLOGY
AUTO WRECKING LOCATED AT 800-834 AND 825 ENERGY WAY AND
DIRECTING STAFF TO PROCEED WITH AN EV ALUA TION OF THE POTENTIAL
FOR ALTERNATE USES FOR PROPERTIES NOW HOUSING AUTO WRECKERS
AND RECYCLERS PER THE DIRECTION OF THE ADOPTED FIVE YEAR
IMPLEMENTATION PLAN FOR THE OTAY VALLEY ROAD REDEVELOPMENT
PLAN
Page 2 Council/RDA Minutes (- ro 05/01/2001
PUBLIC HEARING (Continued)
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.
Chair/Mayor Horton opened the public hearing and asked if anyone from the audience wished to
speak. There was no response.
ACTION: Mayor Horton moved to continue the hearing to May 8, 200 I. The motion carried
5-0.
OTHER BUSINESS
4. EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR'S REPORTS
There were none.
5. CHAIR/MA YOR REPORTS
There were none.
6. AGENCY/COUNCIL COMMENTS
There were none.
ADJOURNMENT
At 5:01 p.m., Chair/Mayor Horton adjourned the meeting to an Adjourned Regular Meeting of
the Redevelopment Agency on May 8, 2001 at 6:00 p.m., immediately following the City
Council meeting, in the City Council Chambers.
Respectfully submitted,
~ ÓJJ ~' \ì ....L&.-
Susan Bigelow, CMC/AAE, City Clerk
Page 3 CouncillRDA Minutes 1- 7 05/01/2001
JOINT REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY / CITY COUNCIL
AGENDA STATEMENT
ITEM NO.: d-
MEETING DATE: 05/08/01
ITEM TITLE: A PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER ADOPTION OF AN URGENCY
ORDINANCE AND A NEW ORDINANCE TO PROHIBIT THE
ESTABLISHMENT OR EXPANSION OF OUTDOOR STORAGE USES;
AND TOLLING THE OPERATION OF EXISTING OUTDOOR STORAGE
USES WITHIN THE REDEVELOPMENT PROJECT AREAS
SUBMITTED BY: COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR U} f~ ~
REVIEWED BY: CITY MANAGER Ç1, ~
4/5TH5 VOTE: YE5D NO0
Staff recommends that the Redevelopment Agency/City Council continue the public hearing to
May 29, 2001.
REVISED
REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY AGENDA STATEMENT
ITEM NO.: ..3
MEETING DATE: 5/08/01
ITEM TITLE: PUBLIC HEARING: CONSIDERATION OF AN EXTENSION OF AN
EXISTING SPECIAL USE PERMIT FOR THE CONTINUATION OF AN
AUTO DISMANTLING AND RECYCLING BUSINESS AT 800-834 AND
825 ENERGY WAY
RESOLUTION APPROVING THE EXTENSION OF THE SPECIAL USE
PERMIT SUPO-01-01 UNTIL DECEMBER 31, 2017 FOR ECOLOGY
AUTO WRECKING LOCATED AT 800-834 AND 825 ENERGY WAY
SUBMITTED BY: COMMUNITY DEVELOP~ENT DIRECTOR ~Qì ~
REVIEWED BY: EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR ~fi'l)IV
<
4/5THs VOTE: YES c=J NO ŒJ
BACKGROUND
Ecology Auto Wrecking is requesting the continuation of an existing use, Conditional Use Permit
#PCC-73-27, effective date December 12, 1973, for automotive dismantling and the sale of auto
ports, and scrap metal collection, compoction, cutting, shredding in preparation for the scrap
market, and other related uses. The project was approved by the Redevelopment Agency for a
thirteen-year extension on December 8, 1992, which moved the expiration dote of the Permit until
2005. On November 10, 2000 stoff received an applicotion for on extension of this permit until
2025.
The Plonning and Environmental Manager for the Community Development Department has
determined that no new environmental impocts that have not been previously oddressed will occur,
ond the proiect is consistent with the previous environmental review.
RECOMMENDATION
That the Agency adopt the Resolution approving the proposed Special Use Permit Extension in
accordance with the findings and subject to the conditions contained therein.
BOARDS/COMMISSIONS RECOMMENDATION
On April 25, 2001, the Planning Commission held a public hearing and, after receiving public
testimony and stoff's report and recommendation, voted to recommend denial (7-0) of the
proposed Speciol Use Permit Extension bosed on the inconsistency of a long-term extension of the
use with the characterization of the use in the Otay Volley Road plonning documents as a
"transitionol use"; the application for on extension was also considered premature ot this time due
..3 -I
PAGE 2, ITEM NO.: 3
MEETING DATE: 5/08/01
to the Implementation Plan's requirement of an evaluation of alternate uses for properties now
housing auto wreckers. (The Planning Commission minutes for April 25, 2001 regarding this
item will be delivered under separate cover on Monday, May 7, 2001.)
DISCUSSION
1. Site and Project Characteristics
The proposed project is an extension of the existing Special Use Permit for the existing automotive
recycling facilities located at 800-834 and 825 Energy Way, doing business as Ecology Auto
Wrecking, Inc.. The site's discretionory history for this use goes bock to Conditional Use Permit #
PCC -73-27, effective date December 12, 1973, which was extended at the direction of a
Settlement Agreement relating to the Otay Valley Road widening, entered into by the City of
Chulo Vista, the Redevelopment Agency, and the applicont, on December 8, 1992 for a period of
13 years until 2005.
Under the terms of the Settlement Agreement the City of Chula Visto wos to issue 0 Special Use
Permit (SUP) conditioned only by code required off street parking; landscape planting and
irrigation; and fencing and other appropriate comparable cost screening measures to ameliorate
adverse visual impacts. The Agreement further states that the applicant is not required to deviate
substantially from the plans previously submitted, reviewed, and recommended for approval.
The Settlement Agreement contemplates (but does not require) the possible continuation of this
use on the property until December 31,2017. If a permit extension is denied by the City during
this period, the applicant would have the right to rescind the agreement and recommence its
original litigation. Applicant's only remedy would be to void its obligation to poy ony remaining
assessments for its shore of road improvements. The net cost to the City for this remedy would be
approximotely $22,000.
2. General Plan. Zonina. and land Use
GENERAL PLAN ZONING CURRENT LAND USE
Site: Research and Otoy Valley Rood Redevelopment Auto Recycling
Limited Industrial (OVR) IP (Industrial Precise Pion)
North: Open Spoce S80 Otay Disposol Site
South: Research and OVR/IP Vocant
limited Industrial
East: Research and OVR/IP Construction Residue
Limited Industrial Recycling/Vehicle Auctions
West: Research and OVR/IP Auto Recycling/Contractors Yard
Limited Industrial
..3-,;;¿
PAGE 3, ITEM NO.: 3
MEETING DATE: 5/08/01
3. Proposal
No additionol physicol construction activities are proposed at this time. Applicont is requesting
on extension of their existing Special Use Permit from 2005 until December 12, 2025.
4. Analysis
The benefits of outo recycling of end life vehicles (ELVs) is monifested in obvious cost sovings in
recycled parts, energy conservation, parts availability, reduction in abandoned vehicles and land
filling, row material supply, and reduced insurance rates via reducing costs of repairs and
providing a market for totaled vehicles. In addition, Ecology Auto is also an approved location
as an authorized State of California and City of Chula Vista oil recycling center. The
administration of the "Old Vehicle Buy Back program" for the County of San Diego/Air Pollution
Control District occurs here. Annual review by City staff (Community Development and Code
Enforcement performed a compliance inspection on May 24, 2000), as well os a complefe
inspection of the site as part of this permit, indicates this operotion sets the standard locally for
this use for stormwoter filtration, fire suppression measures, os well as hozardous waste
extraction, and storage and handling of vehicles.
As this permit is an extension of an existing permit that has a history of over 25 years, the project
IS and has been supported by the Chula Vista General Plan, the Otay Valley Road
Redevelopment Plan, and the City's Zoning Ordinance. It is recognized in the implementation
plan that auto recycling is a necessory ond beneficial land use for a region. As discussed above,
the existing Settlement Agreement relating to uses on this property contemplates (but does not
require) possible continued auto wrecking uses on this site until December 31,2017.
Onaoina Analysis Reaardina Desirability of
Continued Outdoor Storaae Uses in the Area.
In order to ploce this project in the larger lond use context for the area, the Agency should be
aware of the following matters. The five-year implementation plan for the Otay Valley Road
Redevelopment Project Area calls for an evaluation of the potential for alternate uses for
properties now housing auto wreckers and recyclers prior to the consideration of SUP extensions
for those uses. The majority of the SUP's will expire between 2004-2006. The Agency's goal is to
determine whether a portion or all of the properties in this area can be redeveloped to 0 higher
and better use more consistent with the goals of the project area to produce an office/light
industrial park. The General Plan and Zoning for this area is Research and limited Industrial.
A feasibility study would include an analysis of the demand for and location of existing auto
wreckers/recyclers, perhaps to include a performance standard based on
population/demographics, any environmentol remediotion needed to redevelop the area to light
industriol uses and, finolly, the market ond likely absorption rote in attracting light industriol uses
to the area.
.,3-3
PAGE 4, ITEM NO.: .3
MEETING DATE: 5/08/01
Staff believes now is the appropriate time to conduct the study, since this permit is the firm
application for extension of the Special Use Permits issued in fhe area, and while stoff presently
recognizes the need for at least one recycler in the area, such a study may provide us with the
basis for further discretion during consideration of future extensions. Additionally, the
information provided by the study will provide valuable direction for the Generol Plan Update.
To allow this study to occur without having to consider multiple untimely permit extension or new
use applications, stoff will be bringing forward a "Tolling ordinonce" to the City/Agency on Moy 8.
This ordinonce will be proposed for odoption on on urgency bosis. It is intended to preclude the
necessity of consideration of similar discretionary permits prior to the study's completion.
Staff's Recommendation
Applicanfs request for extension comes ot on awkward time in the midst of a pending analysis
designed to determine whether or not to transition auto wrecking and similar uses out of this
developing area. The Planning Commission's recommendation to deny the permit reflects this
tension. Stoff, nonetheless, recommends opprovol of the request (but only until December 30,
2017 not the applicant's 2025 request). Stoff's recommendation is based on applicant's record
of business operation in the City, their compliance with terms of the existing permit, and the value
of the proposed service to the region. At least some level of high quolity auto wrecking activity in
the oreo is appropriate. Furthermore, applicont hos agreed to further condition their operotions
to mandate their high quality of operations, and to indemnify the City against any liability
resulting from their operations.
In lioht of the circumstances described obove as well as the unusual nature of the existina
Settlement Aareement staff thouaht it would be imoortant to indicate that althouah the aoolicant
has reauested a 20-vear extension ond staff has recommended a 12-vear extension the Aaencv
does have the ootion to aoorove a shorter-term extension Anv lenath extension could also be
structured to include renewal ootions with soecified conditions for renewal If the Aaencv were to
denv the extension reauest such a decision would need to be suooorted bv aoorooriate findinos
in the record
FISCAL IMPACT
The extension causes no chonges to revenues now realized by the City/Agency because no new
operations, equipment or construction are proposed. However, the upcoming study will analyze
the fiscal impact of redevelopment to light industrial uses and these findings may be useful in
assessing future extension requests.
ATTACHMENTS
1. Location Mop showing Ecology Auto wrecking sites and parcels offected by the Settlement
Agreement
J:\COMMDEV\STAFF.REP\O5-01-01\ecology rdoos.doc
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5/8/01 RDA
ITEM #3
§.{~ Community Development Department INFOØ.. .ITION
II C,ty Of Chula V,.ta ~
- 276 Fourth Avenue
~ ChulaVista.Ca91910 0
CHUlAVICTA 619.691.5047.-619.476.5310 Fax MEM
"I' cvcomdev@cl.chula-vlsta.ca.us
TO: The Honorable Mayor and Councilmembers
VIA: David D. Rowlands, City Manager
FROM: Chris Salomone, Community Development Director l.J:}~ C,~
DATE: May 7,2001
RE: Excerpt of Draft Planning Commission Minutes -
Ecology Auto Wrecking
As indicated in the staff report for the Ecology Auto Wrecking Special Use Permit item
on the May 8th Agency Agenda, attached are the draft minutes from the Planning
Commission meeting of April 25th. The excerpt was not available at the time the
packets were delivered on Friday. Please be advised that these are not the official
minutes of the item as they have not been presented for their review and approval.
Excerpt of Draft Minutes from Planning Commission Meeting
Held on Wednesday, April 25, 2001
3. PUBLIC HEARING: SUPS-Ol-Ol¡ Consideration of an extension of an existing
Special Use Permit for the Continuation of an Auto Dismantling
and Recycling Business at 800-834 and 825 Energy Way and
Resolution - Recommending that the Redevelopment
Agency Board approve the proposed Special Use Penn it
extension in accordance with the attached draft Agency
Resolution based on the findings and subject to the conditions
contained therein.
Background:
Brian Hunter, Planning and Environmental Manager, presented the Commissioners with additional
documentation from Ecology Auto Parts. Chair Thomas stated that they would not have the time
to read the document at this meeting and that it would only be accepted under submission as
part of the minutes. Staff stated the document contained testimonials of the good work the
applicant had performed in the community and throughout Southern California.
Mr. Hunter reported the project is located at 800-834 and 825 Energy Way. The proposal consists
of an extension of the existing Special Use Permit for the existing automotive recycling facilities
doing business as Ecology Auto Wrecking, Inc. The original Special Use Permit dated December
12, 1973 was extended at the direction of a settlement agreement relating to the Otay Valley
Road widening, entered into by both the Redevelopment Agency and the applicant, on December
8, 1992 for a period of 13 years until 2005.
Under terms of the Settlement Agreement the City of Chula Vista was to issue a Special Use
Permit (SUP) conditioned to require off street parking; landscape planting and irrigation; and
fencing and other appropriate screening measures to ameliorate adverse visual impacts.
The site has been visited on a regular basis in order see if they are complying with the conditions.
The applicant has been in conformance. The overall benefits of the auto recycling business is the
recycling of end of life vehicles which manifest cost savings in recycled parts, energy
conservation, parts availability, reduction in abandoned vehicles and land filling. In addition,
Ecology Auto is also an approved location as an authorized State of California and City of Chula
Vista oil-recycling center. The administration of the "Old Vehicle Buy Back program" for the
County of San Diego/Air Pollution Control District occurs there. Annual reviews indicate this
operation set the standard locally for this use for stormwater filtration, fire suppression measures,
as well as hazardous waste extraction, and storage and handling of vehicles.
As this permit is an extension of an existing permit that has a history of over 25 years, the project
is and has been supported by the Chula Vista General Plan, the Otay Valley Road Redevelopment
Plan, and the City's Zoning Ordinance. The settlement agreement runs until December 31,2017
and staff supports an extension to this date rather than the 20 years the applicant originally
requested. The reason the applicant has requested an extension of 20 years is they are in the
process of purchasing the land on the south side of Energy Way and their loan has a maturity of
20 years.
The existing settlement agreement further delineates the City of Chula Vista's responsibility and
limits in this area. Community Development staff would like the Planning Commission to
Planning Commission Meeting-Draft Minutes
April 25, 2001
consider, in keeping with the project area goal of eliminating visual blight due to incompatible
uses, staff's desire to conduct a study of Energy Way uses during the next several months. The
five-year implementation plan for the Otay Valley Road Redevelopment Project Area calls for an
evaluation of the potential for alternate uses for properties now housing auto wreckers and
recyclers prior to the consideration of the SUP extensions for those uses.
Commissioner O'Neill stated that in the recent past, the Commission, along with staffs
recommendation, voted to deny the request to allow a batch plant in this area. The rationale was
that the use was incompatible with the envisioned Otay Valley Redevelopment Area
Implementation Plan. At the time, staff indicated that the City's direction was to eventually phase
out the auto recycling businesses and not renew the permits when they expired. Therefore, he
would like further explanation as to how does staff justify extending this permit, and at the same
time deny other recyclers extensions on their permits.
Brian Hunter responded that the legal settlement itself is a separate document and does not
cover everything in that area. It does cover three or four separate properties. As such we have a
different legal requirement with other existing permits. All of the permits, with the exception of
one, expire between 2004 and 2006 and we expect them to come forward with a request for an
extension on their permit. Another means to evaluate these permits would be solely on a
performance standard, utilizing Ecology Auto as the standard by which to measure the rest.
Staff recommendation: That the Planning Commission approve Resolution
recommending that the Redevelopment Agency approve the proposed Special Use Permit
Extension in accordance with the attached draft Redevelopment Agency approve the proposed
Special Use Permit Extension in accordance with the attached draft Redevelopment Agency Board
Resolution based on the findings and subject to the conditions contained therein.
COMMISSION DISCUSSION:
Commissioner Hall stated that the City pretty much knows in what direction they want to go in
terms of encouraging light industrial businesses in this redevelopment area and he expressed
concern with staff's position in even entertaining the thought of extending these permits beyond
the year 2004 or 2006.
Glenn Goggins stated that the Settlement Agreement does not prohibit the Commission,
provided the appropriate findings are made, from denying a permit during this period of time.
There are consequences to a denial, which would trigger a rescission right on the part of the
parties to the Settlement Agreement whereby assuming certain conditions are met and they
prevail in a lawsuit that they could reinstate, they might be in a position of having no obligation to
make payments under the Assessment District Formation, which was the original nature of their
protest. Therefore, there could be financial consequences to the City in that essentially it would
become a "buy-out" of their obligation to pay assessment district fees. There would be
consequences to them in that they wouldn't have their Special Use Permit any longer and could
be grandfathered or otherwise affected by legitimate Land Use Decisions.
The Settlement Agreements do not prevent the Commission from doing something other than
what they are proposing or what staff is proposing to approve their agreement for the period of
time. If the Commission were to approve a permit application to 2017 in accordance with staff's
recommendation, there is no doubt that it would make it difficult with respect to that particular
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Planning Commission Meeting-Draft Minutes
April 25, 2001
operator to phase or amortize out their operation. They would have a valid permit for that period
of time and you couldn't just declare that permit void.
Commissioner Hall stated that the City would be establishing precedence that could in essence
then allow others to come forward and say that they too want to be granted an extension like
Ecology Auto to the year 2017.
Glenn Googins stated that it does create an awkward situation, but from a legal standpoint each
permit is viewed independently and you can make findings for one applicant and have a
legitimate basis for not being able to make those findings for another applicant. Certain kinds of
uses are found valuable and this use has been identified by the Commission as being a valuable
use, however, certain kinds of uses are only valuable in certain quantities as well. Certainly you
want to be fair and equitable, but there is also a basis for looking at each individual proposal on
its own merit.
You can also certainly approve the application for a duration less than the proposal and staff has
already recommended a period of less than 20 years as was the original request from the
applicant.
Commissioner Willett stated that he has visited all of the auto wrecking facilities and he would
recommend that Code Enforcement visit these facilities and have them come up to the same
standards as Ecology Auto, especially in their filtration plants, the hazardous material, the fire
protection system and access to the facilities. Additionally the aesthetic improvements that
Ecology Auto has implemented is to be commended.
Commissioner Thomas stated that he has no problem with the excellence and state-of-the-art
facility that Ecology Auto is running, but his concern is that if we're waiting for a report in 2 or 3
years, and a dismantling facilities does not happen to be one of the identified highest and best
use for that area, then we've tied our hand and can't do anything about it.
Public Hearing Opened.
Joe Budkin, 2827 Adams Avenue, San Diego, CA representing Ecology Auto stated that the
rack record that Ecology Auto has established as a leader in the industry that of a business that is
committed to excellence, a good operator and a good neighbor.
Ecology Auto has been the leading innovator in their industry. Much of the operations and
facilities that are used in order to absolutely extract all regulated and hazardous materials had to
be designed by Ecology and built by them because none had existed prior to Ecology Auto.
In respect to screening measures to ameliorate adverse visual impacts, Ecology Auto has taken
the initiative to provide some additional south facing screening. They have also made some
changes within their operation to insure that no equipment or stacks of crushed vehicles would
extend above the screening so that the visual impact from the south from the Coor's
Amphitheater and Water Park side is greatly ameliorated if not all together erased.
Ecology Auto owns one of the parcels that their operation takes place on and leases the other.
The lease on the property will be expiring in the foreseeable future. The most advantageous plan
for Ecology is to purchase the property that is currently leased and there is a conceptual
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Planning Commission Meeting-Draft Minutes
April 25, 2001
agreement with the property owner to do so for a price tag in the neighborhood of two million
dollars. That alone will radically alter the property tax revenues to the City and Redevelopment
Agency incremental financing. But in addition, Ecology proposes to expend capital on the
upgraded maintenance and repair of just the sort of facilities that we are talking about notably
perimeter screening landscaping so that the operation continues to be a good neighbor.
All of this is a great deal of money, and then in addition there is the money for the Otay Valley
Road Assessment District 92-2 a $140,000, which is grossly incorrect. When you combine the
two pieces of property that Ecology currently owns and the one that they lease the figure will
exceed a million and one-half dollars of which approximately $60,000 a year until 2017 is still to
be paid on installments and there are promissory notes due in lump sum on December 31, 2017.
I would suggest in your deliberations, to keep in mind that the capital investment that Ecology is
proposing to make should this permit be granted over a long enough term to amortize that sort of
investment includes a substantial amount of money for the Otay Valley Road assessment district.
The purpose and the reasoning for applying for a 20-year extension is so that this major capital
investment can be financed with amortizing over 25 years. Should the Commission and the
Redevelopment Agency choose to accept staff's recommendation to reduce our request expiration
date to 2017 instead of 2025 the applicant will concur.
Commissioner McCann inquired about the storm water filtration system.
Joe Kellejian, 4360 Main Street, Chula Vista, CA representing Ecology Auto stated that
Ecology sets the standard locally for storm water filtration, fire suppression measures as well as
hazardous waste extraction, and storage and handling of vehicles.
They have two different storm water filtration systems that have been approved. Their hazardous
waste management is beyond reproach and in cooperation with the Chula Vista Fire Department,
San Diego Fire Department, and County Health Services have worked on ways of extracting all
the fluids out of the vehicle before it goes out to their facility.
They have a tremendous following with the public and businesses in the South Bay and
throughout the County of San Diego who depend on them for used auto parts. In addition to all
the services they provide, they have contributed greatly to the community with social services and
scholarship distributed to all the high schools in Chula Vista.
Commissioner O'Neill inquired about the property being purchased and what sort of tax
revenue these three sites would produce on sales tax based on the gross sales.
Mr. Kelliejian responded that the property being purchased was the south side that held the
foreign cars and those three parcels generated approximately a quarter of a million dollars in sale
tax revenue.
Commissioner Castaneda inquired to whether Ecology had a facility in the City of San Diego in
the Otay Mesa area.
Mr. Kellejian stated they have a large IS-acre facility in Qtay Mesa that they lease from the Street
family.
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Planning Commission Meeting-Draft Minutes
April 25, 2001
Commissioner Castaneda stated the City of San Diego is looking at phasing out the auto
recycling industry in Otay Mesa and asked about the status of their Conditional Use Permit.
Mr. Kellejian responded that the Conditional Use Permit was almost ready.
Commissioner Castaneda responded that the City of San Diego has offered the CUP but
understood that the Street family would have to make a significant amount of improvement to
their property in order to get it. He wasn't sure that they were willing to do that. He further
stated that the City of San Diego is basically looking and heading in one direction with respect to
the land that's been traditionally used over the past 20-30 years for auto recycling.
Public Hearing Closed.
Commissioner Thomas stated he was trying to stay focused on what the land use is. Granted
Ecology is the number one leader in their industry, if the study shows that the highest and best
land use is for the recycling industry than we will obviously want to use Ecology as the standard
to fulfill the obligations of that report.
He further stated it would not be a good idea to go into any type of long-term agreement until
the reports came out that showed us the highest and best land use and allowed the city to make
some long range goals based upon those reports.
Since those reports were due to be completed within 2-3 years, Commissioner Thomas stated he
was more inclined to recommend that instead of saying no to the whole project, that they vote to
have the project come back after the reports have been completed, He was going to vote no
against the proposal.
Commissioner O'Neill stated that the applicant's concern regarding financing being more
difficult to obtain because the SUP was not extended would be true if the applicant were a
weaker operation. But that particular piece of property, if in fact there is a higher and better use
and it's light manufacturing is going to be worth more than maybe not to their on-going operation
but actual cash value of the land. It will turn out to be a good investment.
Lyle Haynes, Assistant Community Development Director stated the timing of the
application was awkward. They had to look at the application on the merits of their findings at
this point in time. After all the options had been weighed they came to the conclusion that there
were more reason to approve the project than to deny it. There has been a great deal of
discussion about the timing if this project gets approved; now in advance of this study that we
would be locking ourselves in.
Mr. Haynes stated he believed even with the approval of Ecology there would still be a
tremendous amount of redevelopment opportunities in that area that could be used for other
alternative land uses.
He further stated he believes by recommending approval of this Special Use Permit the Planning
Commission is not precluding themselves from taking other action down the road if there are
other types of projects that come in that provide higher and better uses in that area.
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Planning Commission Meeting-Draft Minutes
April 25, 2001
Commissioner Thomas asked what kinds of options you would have if you granted someone a
Special Use Permit until 2017.
Lyle Haynes responded that it was in a redevelopment area and that the option would be
Eminent Domain.
Commissioner Thomas stated that was not a good option.
Commissioner Hall stated if they were to approve this Special Use Permit in mid term then the
other neighbors in the same business would come forward and want the same thing. If we were
to deny them we could be setting ourselves up for potential litigation challenges.
Lyle Haynes in terms of the other applications that are coming in, they will be looked at on a
case-by-case basis. We are going to be accelerating this study and will be in better position to be
able to respond to future application as they come in when they are due to expire in 2005 and
2006.
Commissioner O'Neill stated this application comes early on. The applicant's Special Use
Permit does not expire until 2005. I think the applicant has come forward because they are
trying to make a decision on purchasing the land. He did not think it had to be extended now as
Ecology had four years left on their lease.
MSC (Thomas/Castaneda) (7-0-0-0) that the Planning Commission denies the staff's
recommendation and not approve the requested extension thus keeping the Special
Use Permit intact until 2005. The request could come forward again after the
Redevelopment Agency reports are completed stating the long-term goals of the city.
6