HomeMy WebLinkAboutPlanning Comm min 1970/09/28 MINUTES OF A REGULAR ADJOURNED MEETING OF THE
CITY PLANNING COMMISSION OF CHULA VISTA, CALIFORNIA
September 28, 1970
The regular adjourned meeting of the City Planning Commission of Chula Vista,
California, was held on the above date beginning at 7 p.m. in the Council Chamber,
Civic Center, 276 Fourth Avenue, Chula Vista, California, with the following
members present: Rice, Stewart, Adams, Macevicz, Chandler, Hillson and James.
Also present: Director of Planning Warren, Associate Planner Lee, City Attorney
Lindberg and City Engineer Gesley.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Member Adams requested that the minutes of September 21, 1970, be amended to
reflect his comments concerning the application for a conditional use permit,
200 block Church Avenue, new and used car storage parking, Castle Plymouth, Inc.,
as follows: He felt the objections of the residents were valid; that the use
was not compatible with the area; and that since this use had been going on
without the benefit of legal sanction, it should be eliminated. These comments
reflected his position and were the basis for his "no" vote on the motion for
approval of the conditional use permit.
MSUC (Macevicz-Chandler) Minutes of the meeting of September 14, 1970 be
approved as mailed and the minutes of the meeting of September 21, 1970 be
approved as amended.
Request for waiver of street improvements on Oneida Street for Starlight
Center at 1280 Nolan Avenue
Director of Planning Warren reported the receipt of a letter from Starlight
Center requesting a waiver from the requirement for street improvements on
East Oneida Street. He recalled that the Planning Commission had granted a
conditional use permit on May 25, 1970 for an addition to the existing building
of Starlight Center. One of the conditions of the permit was the dedication of
the necessary right-of-way for East Oneida Street. The City Code requires that
when the right-of-way is available, any improvement of property valued at
$5,000 or more requires that street improvements go in.
Mr. Warren further advised that the City Code provides for the Planning Commis-
sion to defer for a certain length of time the improvement of streets, but a
waiver would require action by the City Council. The City Engineer has recom-
mended granting a deferment until street improvements have been constructed for
Chula Vista Gardens Unit No. 7 subdivision.
MS (Hillson-James) Deferment of street improvements be granted to the Starlight
Center.
Member Adams commented that this deferment must be subject to the furnishing of
a bond or lien to assure construction within 30 days after being ordered by the
City.
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Member Hillson voiced his objection to this requirement pointing out that
Starlight Center is a unique organization which has done a tremendous amount
of good for the community, to which the city, the government, and the schools
have closed their eyes for years. He felt this is one time when the City
should do something to show appreciation for the dedication of these interested
citizens and, if necessary, grant a complete waiver, or at least grant a defer-
ment for street improvements and not require a lien or bond to be posted.
Member Adams avowed he could not see where furnishing a lien or bond to insure
installing the improvements at the proper time would handicap this Center at all.
Chairman Rice asked if a representative from Starlight Center was present at
the meeting, and finding no one, he recommended that consideration of the request
be postponed until later in the meeting hoping a representative might arrive.
Member Hillson withdrew his motion for deferment and the Chairman announced this
matter would be considered later in the meeting.
RESOLUTION - Approving prezoning to P-C for property north of Otay Valley Road
south of Orange Avenue Extension - George & Lucile Sears - Brandywine
Director of Planning Warren recalled the public hearing conducted on this applica-
tion for prezoning to "P-C" and the action taken by the Commission approving the
land use plan. He reported the draft of the resolution submitted to the Commis-
sion on September 21, 1970, is acceptable to the applicant, to the City Engineer
and the Planning Department staff.
MSUC (Chandler-Adams) Recommend to City Council prezoning to "P-C" for
RESOLUTION NO. PCZ-70-S that area south of Orange Avenue, east of Princess
Manor and north of Otay Valley Road, known as
"Brandywine"
PUBLIC HEARING (Cont.) - PREZONING - 4700 block Otay Valley Road, 600' east
of Oleander - from A-3(8) to "I" General Industrial -
Jimmie Shinohara
Director of Planning Warren pointed out the location of the 46 acres involved
lying south of the proposed Brandywine proposal, north of Otay Valley Road
and east of Princes Manor subdivision. The original request involved 30
acres and the staff included 16 acres located between this site and the present
City boundaries.
Mr. Warren recalled previous meetings at which this matter was considered and
the staff's recommendation for I-L zoning for all of that property fronting
on Otay Valley Road and R-1 prezoning for the remaining half of the property
to the north. There were objections to this proposal by the applicant since
he desired higher density residential zoning a~d the staff was directed to
restudy the proposal.
The staff still feels it would be unwise to zone additional property in this
area for multiple family or commercial use unless an acceptable plan for develop-
ment is presented. It is, therefore, recommended that the property be prezoned
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to R-1 and I-L, prezoning to become final upon dedication of certain streets
as outlined.
The chairman declared the public hearing reopened.
Mr. Virgil Clapp, 1199 Broadway, Chula Vista, representing the applicant, commented
that this Property was purchased for development at the time the freeway is
constructed, which is approximately two years away. It is the desire of the
County and other developers to put a street through this property from Otay
Valley Road to the north. The property is presently under cultivation and
for Mr. Shinohara to split his property and give up three acres for street
right-of-way he should gain something in return. He felt it would not be
feasible to put R-1 zoning between this proposed road and the salvageyard
which abuts this property on the east. They are requesting commercial zoning
to put in a service station and garage at the northwest corner of the
proposed street and Otay Valley Road and R-3 zoning next to the salvage yard.
leslie Lauderdale, 1555 Oleander Avenue, expressed interest in learning
what uses would be allowed in the I-L zoning. He stated he would not object
to a service station and garage, but another plant like the Omar rendering
plant would make it unbearable.
Chairman Rice advised that the I-L classification is a limited industrial
zone and the performance standards which the City has adopted would not permit
odors, smoke, dust and so on, which the residents might have associated with
heavy industrial use.
There being no further comment, either for or against, the public hearing was
declared closed.
The Commission expressed concurrence with the staff's recommendation for
prezoning and that if the applicant has specific plans for development which
require a change of zone this can be considered at a later time.
MSUC (Chandler-Macevicz) Recommend to the City Council prezoning for 46
RESOLUTION NO. PCZ-70-N acres in the 4700 block of Otay Valley Road
(north side) 600 feet east of Oleander Avenue to
R-1 and I-L.
Prezonin9 to become final only upon the dedication of the following streets:
(A) 30 feet of dedication on the north side of Otay Valley Road, which
would provide an ultimate right-of-way of lO0' for that road (20' is existing
from the center line at the present time).
(B) 26 1/2' on the south side of Timber Street extension. This extension
would serve property which is presently landlocked as well as providing
access to the existing single family dwellings within the City to the
proposed elementary school site contemplated for the Planned Unit Develop-
ment project north of this site.
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(C) A 55' collector road bisecting the property in question, extending north
from Otay Valley Road to the northerly boundary of the applicant's property.
An alternate location will be considered as precise plans are developed.
Findings of fact are as follows:
a. The R-1 zoning proposed will conform to the existing and proposed
development adjacent to this site and is in conformance with the General
Plan.
b. The I-L zoning will provide a buffer between existing salvage operation
and the single family subdivision to the west and will provide a good
industrial site on a major street adjacent to a freeway interchange.
c. These streets will be needed to serve the proposed land use on subject
property.
PUBLIC HEARING (Cont.) - PREZONING - 4103 Ota~ Valley Road - from A-1 (8/ tn R-3-G (24 acres and C-C 31 acres/ - Louis Ber~ener
Director of Planning Warren pointed out the location of the property south
of Main Street or Otay Valley Road and west of Interstate 805 Freeway.
Consideration is for prezoning of 70 acres, 55 of which is owned by the
applicant. The property wi th the inclusion of Main Street is contiguous to the present
present city limit to the north.
Mr. Warren reviewed the applicant's proposal which includes townhouse
units on 21 1/2 acres, apartments on about 23 acres, a neighborhood shopping
center of about 5 1/2 acres and visitor commercial (includes adjacent
ownership) for 7 acres. The balance, not owned by the applicant, is indicated
as a mobile home park.
The staff contacted the owneG a national oil company, of the 15 acres
adjacent to the freeway and found that their primary interest would be to
provide a service station at the interchange of the freeway; they have no
projected use for the remaining property.
Questions were raised at the previous meeting concerning the need for
additional schools in the area. The elementary school district has indicated
they do not desire another school site south of Main Street in this vicinity.
The Sweetwater Union High School District indicated the existing junior high
that would serve this property is at capacity, some bussing or rearrangement
in schedules would probably be necessary when this property and adjacent
property is developed.
Mr. Warren referred to the General Plan which places this area in a limited
industrial reserve, but the staff feels it would be logical to reconsider that
proposed land use because of the property's relationship to the permanent open
space in the flood plain and the existing residential development.
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Mr. Warren reviewed the staff's recommendation for prezoning which is not specific
zoning in accordance with delineated boundaries but would establish the concept
of land use and basic dei~s~ties, then the development of precise plans could
continue. This includes R-l-5 zoning, single family, for approximately 20
acres of the property, R-3-G for approximately 37 acres of the property, a
neighborhood shopping center site for approximately 5 acres, and 8 acres for
the visitor commercial site, It is further recommended that the "P" Precise
Plan Modifying District be attached. The staff also recommends that no develop-
ment shall take place until the Engineering Department has submitted a written
report to the Planning Commission verifying the adquacy of the sewer system
to handle each phase of development.
The Chairman declared the public hearing reopened.
Dan Grady, representing the applicant, expressed agreement in general with the
recommendations o~ the staff.
Chairman Rice asked if the applicant confirms that they wish to withdraw the
tentative map for Rancho Rio Units 1 and 2. Mr. Grady confirmed that they do.
Mr. Grady continued in his remarks that they are quite close to the staff's
recommendation for proposed land use and density. They are requesting develop-
ment of 733 family units whereas the staff recommends 700 units. The part where
they have some disagreemnt with the recommendations of the staff is on the develop-
ment of the property to the extreme west. He felt it would be extremely difficult
to develop to R-l-5 zoning. They suggest that acreage be developed into town-
house cluster type of development, that the entire area be developed not to exceed
10 units to the acre. Their proposal for development would include 3 or 4 acres
of open space, would integrate the two types of residential uses and open the
Otay Valley area to the south to residents of this development and residents of
the balance of the City of Chula Vista.
Mr. Grady stated it is their request that the Commission recommend rezoning
the property in accordance with the recommendation of the staff wi th one
modification, which would be, no more than 647 dwelling units for the 55 acres
under the applicant's control.
In discussion of the density and type of units, Mr. Grady confirmed that they
feel the property immediately adjacent to the freeway should be a lower density
than the portion of the property they plan to develop.
Mr. Louis Bergener spoke in favor of the proposed type of development, includin9
townhouse and 9arden type apartments. He commented they could live with the
overall density proposed by the staff.
Director Warren asked if he was referring to the staff recommendation for 700
units on the 70 acres.
Mr. Dan Grady replied that the applicant said 700 units on the overall property
with the proportionate ratio they had suggested on the plan with slightly higher
density in the center.
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Mr. Virgil Clapp, 1199 Broadway, stated he was not in opposition to this
proposal but questioned why they were giving 13 acres of commercial to this
applicant when they would not approve a commercial site on Mr. Shinohara's
property.
There being no further comment, the public hearing was declared closed.
Member Hillson expressed his concern with the high density, because some
school is going to have to absorb these, he would like to see some lower
density applied in this area.
Chairman Rice confirmed that he is also disturbed about the high density in
this area. He felt that study and consideration should be given to the effect
of concentrating high density development in this general area of the City.
Member Hillson suggested that the Planning Director and staff meet with the
developer to see if they can reach some compromise that would be suitable.
Director of Planning Warren confirmed this can be done if the Commission
agrees with the overall density of 700 units for the area under consideration.
MSUC (Adams-Chandler) Recommend approval of prezoning as proposed by the
staff subject to the approval of a Precise Plan before
prezoning
SUBDIVISION - Rancho Rio Units 1 and 2 - Tentative map
The Chairman reported no action is required since the applicant has indicated
his desire to withdraw the subdivision map.
PUBLIC HEARING - REZONING - 1400 block Melrose Avenue - R-1 to R-3-G and
reduction of setback 25' to 15' - Saratoga Development Corp.
Director of Planning Warren pointed out the location of approximately ll acres
located on the west side of Melrose Avenue south of East Rienstra Street, and
bounded on the west by the San Diego Gas & Electric Co. easement. After
discussing adjacent land use and zoning, and the existing and proposed site
topography, he stated that the staff recommends approval of R-3-G zoning subject
to approval of a Precise Plan.
This being the time and place as advertised, the public hearing was opened.
~ne^¥~rk., 280 K Street, commented that in the pas~ ~ew.ye~s the philosophy of
ne u~y nas grown toward the feeling that the most aeslraD/e pIace To put
multiple family use is interspersed among single family or lower density uses,
and if a site ever lended itself to this particular philosophy, this site does.
With the exception of six lots affected by this property, the property is
completely surrounded by other uses than R-1. He pointed out there is a large
drainage channel that goes around the entire perimeter of the back of those
six lots. He further stated that development of the property will require
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installation of a 54" covered drainage pipe and single family development
could not afford this type of improvement. He contended that R-1 development
would require more grading than the proposed R-3-G development plans.
Mr. York referred to the staff comments which indicated a problem concerning
tandem parking. He pointed out that for this development the developer would
be required to furnish 327 parking spaces but he is actually providing 462;
this requires parking one car in a covered carport and one in the driveway
for each of the units. To meet the requirement of 327 parking spaces they
would need only 49 spaces as tandem parking, or one space for each four units.
Mr. York felt the requirement for a private patio for each unit should be left
to the discretion of the developer and that it should be eliminated as a require-
ment of a precise plan.
James Dyer, 173 Rivera Court, pointed out that the shopping center is now
disconnected from any residential area by the hill. The area in question is a
natural open space and if the hill is graded and the gully placed in a pipe
drainage, it will disrupt the natural area and instead leave a large bank. He
expressed opposition to the grading of the property and to the higher density
development. He bought his house adjacent to that area knowing it was zoned
R-1 and he would not object to that type of development.
Lorette Wedlake, 161 Rivera Court, asked the difference in the density between
R-l-7 and R-3-G and after an explanation by Mr. Warren, she pointed out the
shortage of schools in that area, stating that the children living there now are
being bussed to various schools.
Chairman Rice pointed out that the fact that an area is being developed in an
R-3 category does not insure there will be more children in the area, because
it could be an adult only complex and many times they end up with less children
in those areas than if they were developed R-l.
Darlene Reed, 178 Rivera Court, voiced her objection to grading away the hill,
and it was pointed out by Mr. Warren that grading would take place whether the
property were developed to R-1 or R-3. Mrs. Reed then asked about the drainage
ditch which abuts her back yard. She asked what effect covering it up would have
on her property, and where they are going to cover it up from.
Mr. York advised they propose to cover the drainage on their own property only,
beginning about 150 feet from Rienstra.
Mrs. Reed expressed her oppostion to the development.
Mr. York commented on the objections raised as follows: The drainage to be
installed will effect only their own property; the hill will be graded regardless
of the type of development that takes place, and the residents on Rivera Court
have the SDG&E easement as a buffer between their property and this development.
He also pointed out that their buildings will be a maximum height of two stories which
is allowed in single family residential area. This will not be an all adult develop-
ment, but it will be two bedroom apartments and this would result in fewer school
age children than there would be in three, four and five bedroom single family homes.
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Lydia Perez remarked that her three school age children are all in different
schools, and she objected to the bussing of the children. She also contended
that the existing drainage ditch is not properly protected and is not adequate.
There being no further comment, either for or against, the public hearing was
closed.
Members Chandler, Adams, and Hillson spoke in favor of this development.
Chairman Rice also pointed out this is a suitable area for a low-density
multiple-family development; it has a difference in topography, is adjacent to
a commercial development and has a buffer on the west.
The Commission discussed the guidelines for a precise plan as recommended by the
staff with particular attention to the requirement for fencing and private
patios and directed that if the staff and applicant cannot work this out the
matter should be brought back to the Commission.
MSUC (Hillson-James) Recommend to the City Council the change of zone for
RESOLUTION NO. PCZ-70-T approximately 12 acres located west of Melrose Avenue
between Orange Avenue and East Rienstra Street to
R-3-G-P with the provision the staff work with the
applicant concerning the guidelines for the Precise
Plan.
Findings are as follows:
a. The configuration of the property, with limited access to a dedicated street,
would require an extensive street pattern on the property for R-1 development.
The property can best be served by clustering units under the R-3-G concept.
b. The adjoining property across Melrose Avenue is zoned R-3-G and C-N zoning
exists directly south.
c. The General Plan indicates a medium density (4-12 units per acre) for this
area; R-3-G would allow 17~ units to the acre, however, the "P" modifying
district requiring a precise plan will limit the density.
d. R-3-G will provide the City with a diversification of densities in areas
providing: commercial services, adequate road system, including access to the
freeway and major or collector roads, proper separation from single family areas,
and adequate school facilities to handle the increase in density.
Chairman Rice reminded the audience that this application will appear as a
public hearing before the City Council.
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PUBLIC HEARING - CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT - 35 Broadwas - Trailer and truck rental
(U-Haul Co.) - C-T zone Joseph Riva and H. Corbett
Associate Planner Lee pointed out the location of the property, which is two parcels
totaling 186' X 150', located on the east side of Broadway, 290 feet south of
C Street. The adjacent property is zoned C-T, with the exception of the property
on the east which is zoned R-3. Mr. Lee stated the applicant has just advised the
staff that they plan to use the property for only one year, which would not require
the paving and landscaping conditions submitted in the staff comments.
This being the time and place as advertised, the public hearing was opened.
Mr. Harold Corbett commented that there was a U-Haul rental place about five blocks
north in National City and they had to close due to the freeway going through.
The reason Mr. Riva wants to get one open on a temporary basis is to continue with
the business they had built up at the other location, until such time as he can get
a permanent location. He also made a clarification that the actual usage is only
the parcel with lll' frontage on Broadway. The 75' lot will not be included in
this use. He advised that the lot to be used has two driveways into it and it has
not been decided whether to build a small building or rent a small building or
trailer to use as a rental office. He confirmed it will be for a maximum of one
year and they will fulfill the requirement for temporary paving.
There were no other comments and the public hearing was declared closed.
MSUC (Macevicz-Chandler) Approval of a conditional use permit for 35 Broadway
RESOLUTION NO. PCC-70-28 for trailer and truck rental in a C-T zone, with the use
confined to one lot with lll' frontage, for a period of
one year with temporary paving requirements.
Findings are as follows:
a. That the proposed use at the particular location is necessary and desirable
to provide a service or facility which will contribute to the general well-being
of the neighborhood or the community.
The proposed use is compatible with the adjacent uses. The sales lot
will be approximately 100 feet from any residential structure.
b. That such use will not, under the circumstances of the particular case, be
detrimental to the health, safety or general welfare of persons residing or
working in the vicinity, or injurious to property or improvements in the vicinity.
In view of the conditions imposed on the applicant (maximum time limit one
year), the proposed use will not be detrimental.
c. That the proposed use will comply with the regulations and conditions
specified in the Code for such use.
The proposed use will comply with regulations normally imposed on uses of
a temporary nature for one year or less.
d. That the granting of this conditional use will not adversely affect the General
Plan of the City of Chula Vista or the adopted plan of any governmental agency.
The General Plan will not be affected by this use.
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PUBLIC HEARING - CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT - Fourth Avenue and C Street - Operation
of used automobile reconditionin9 and sales - C-T zone -
Marell Walton
Associate Planner Lee pointed out the location at the northwest corner of Fourth
Avenue and C Street and the existing uses which include a service station, Unimart
store, parking and various retail uses. The application indicates this use would
be a major auto repair. While this area is presently zoned C-T, the present use
falls into a C-C category which agrees with the General Plan. The use proposed
is oriented to thoroughfare commercial zoning and the use is not in accordance
with the C-C zoning requirements, and the staff, therefore, recommends denial of
the use. The facility that was there previously did a certain amount of work on
cars such as brakes and alignment. If the Commission desires to approve this use
they should direct the staff to prepare a list of appropriate conditions.
This being the time and place as advertised, the public hearing was opened.
Marell Walton, the applicant, was present to answer any questions of the Commission.
Under questioning he commented that this site wouldn't be suitable if there are
restrictions and he could only do some part of the automobile, it would not meet
his purpose. He confirmed that he wishes to do general repair and that he has a
dealer's license and sells some vehicles, and a large percent of the work would
be on their own vehicles and would include body and fender work and touch up
painting.
There being no further comments, the public hearing was closed.
Member Chandler agreed with the staff recommendation for denial. He did not feel
that particular building and part of the parking lot lend itself to use as a
major repair shop and used car lot for the sale of cars.
Member Adams stated that he does not agree with the staff on this proposal. He
thinks this is as good a place for C-T zone as the street from Fourth to T bird
Avenue on E Street and it is just as good a place for a used car sales agency and
repairs as the facility at the corner of Third Avenue and E Street. He favored
approving this conditional use permit.
Member Macevicz expressed his opposition to this pointing out that every shopping
center in the community would be requesting an auto body and paint shop and used
car sales.
MSC (Chandler-Macevicz) The application for a conditional use permit at Fourth
and C Street for operation of a used automobile repair and sales facility be denied.
The motion carried by the following vote:
AYES: Members Chandler, Macevicz, Stewart, Rice, James and Hillson
NOES: Member Adams
ABSENT: None
Chairman Rice advised the applicant of his right of appeal to the City Council
within 10 days
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PUBLIC HEARING - VARIANCE - 621 L Street - 10' block wall in R-3 zon~ - Imperial Truck Lines, Inc.
Associate Planner Lee recalled there has been a problem for a number of years with
sound coming from the trucks which park in the northerly portion of the property.
At the present time the north and west boundaries are screened by quite large
shrubs but they are ineffective in reducing the sound. Imperial Truck Lines hired
a sound engineer who has made a recommendation for a wall 200' long along the north
boundary line and 50' along the west line. Hopefully this will reduce the noise
problem to satisfy the residents in the area. The staff recommends approval of a
variance to permit the additional height of a wall in the R-3 zone.
Mr. Hurt, Terminal Manager for Imperial Truck Lines, commented in answer to a
question about the length of the wall, that they have had no complaints from any
neighbors other than that corner. The only complaints have come from the actual
area covered by the fence.
Chairman Rice asked the applicant if they would be willing to extend the fence
along the west property line if there should be complaints from the other three
residents adjacent to that portion of their lot.
Member Stewart indicated he did not feel the applicant should be required to
obligate the company at some future date. He felt that should be determined at
the time the need is indicated.
Mr. Hurt felt the wall as proposed will satisfy the complaints they have had and
that is their desire--to eliminate the complaints.
Herbert Young, 873 Riverlawn, spoke representing residents on Riverlawn, stating
he approves this request subject to the condition that the wall shall be built
according to the recommendation of Mr. Ray Thierer of Hackett Ceiling and
Lighting, Inc., who advises if this wall does not sufficiently reduce the noise
level, additional sound-absorbing units can be installed on the wall.
There being no further comment, the public hearing was closed.
When asked about a completion date, Mr. Hurt advised the owner is ready to go
ahead immediately and it should be finished within 90 days.
MSUC (Macevicz-Adams) Approval of variance for 621 L Street for construction
RESOLUTION NO. PCV-70-29 of a 10' high block wall to be completed within 90 days
Findings are as follows:
a. That a hardship peculiar to the property and not created by any act of the
owner exists.
Due to the proximity of the truck terminal to the residences, a wall in
excess of 6' is needed.
b. That this variance is necessary for the preservation and enjoyment of sub-
stantial property rights possessed by other properties in the same zone and in
the vicinity of the subject property.
The need for this wall is evident by the number of complaints received from
the residents to the rear of the terminal.
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c. That the authorizing of this variance will not be of substantial detriment
to adjacent property and will not materially impair the purposes of the ordinance
or the public interest.
Consultants, hired by Imperial Truck Lines, have recommended this wall
as a solution to the noise problem.
d. That the granting of a variance will not be contrary to the objectives of the
General Plan.
The General Plan is not affected.
PUBLIC HEARING - VARIANCE - 1453 Eckman Avenue - Reduction of front sard
15' to 9½' - R-1 zone - Adolf Pichler
Associate Planner Lee pointed out the location of the lot and of the house on
the lot; the design of the house makes it logical to expand to either the front
or rear, but expansion to the rear would be limited due to the configuration of
the lot; therefore, he desires to build toward the front. The applicant is not
required by ordinance to build a garage, but it is his desire to construct a
garage and he is requesting a reduction of front setback to 9½'. This lot is
separated from the adjoining property by a retaining wall.
This being the time and place as advertised, the public hearing was opened.
Adolf Pichler, 1453 Eckman Avenue, expressed his agreement with the condition
for staff approval of the architectural treatment of the addition.
There being no further comment, the'public hearing was closed.
MSUC (Chandler-Hillson) Approval of variance for reduction of front setback to
RESOLUTION NO. PCV-70-30 9½' at 1453 Eckman Avenue, subject to the condition of
staff approval of the architecture
Findings are as follows:
a. That a hardship peculiar to the property and not created by any act of the
owner exists.
Because of the lot configuration and floor plan it is impractical to make
additions to other locations on the lot.
b. That this variance is necessary for the preservation and enjoyment of substan-
tial property rights possessed by other properties in the same zone and in the
vicinity of the subject property.
This variance would bring the buildable lot area up to parity with other
lots in the area.
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c. That the authorizing of this variance will not be of substantial detriment
to adjacent property and will not materially impair the purposes of this ordinance
or the public interest.
Because of grade differences to the south there will be no detrimental
affects, and the purpose of the ordinance will be satisfied.
d. That the granting of a variance will not be contrary to the objectives of the
General Plan.
The General Plan is not affected.
Waiver for street improvements on Oneida Street
Chairman Rice suggested that the waiver for street improvements on Oneida Street
for Starlight Center be carried over to the next meeting, since there was no
representative from that organization present at this meeting to speak for them.
Member Stewart commented that if the ordinance requires that they either execute
a lien or a bond, and the Commission has no right to waive that bond, he did not
see what purpose would be served by putting it off.
MSC (Adams-Chandler) Approval of a deferment of street improvements for Starlight
Center subject to the posting of a bond or lien to guarantee that the improvements
will be completed within 30 days after notice is given by the City Engineer.
Member Hillson commented that he thinks this is one time that the City Planning
Commission and, he hoped, the City Council, should consider this is a very urgent
need, and the City can provide a benefit for very deserving people. He felt an
ordinance, law or code is made to benefit people and there should be provisions
and the Commission should consider it that way, that these things should be granted
in certain conditions. If this organization has to pay for street improvements then
the building is not going to be completed and the Commission here should make the
recommendation to the Council that this requirement be waived.
Chairman Rice asked if Member Adams wished to amend the motion to include a
recommendation to the Council that they waive the requirement for street improve-
ments.
Member Macevicz felt this could not be done and commented there are similar
organizations performing the same type of service and they were required to put
in the service.
Member Adams commented that the ordinance that requires the street improvements
is made for the benefit of the people and it applies to all of the people that own
property, if their property is developed; and how can the Commission say, "The guy
across the street has to pay for improvements but you don't have to."
Member Stewart expressed the feeling that as individual citizens each has the
right to make any recommendation they wish to the Council, but as an advisory
body regarding land use this is not the Commission's function.
-14- 9/28/70
The motion carried by the following vote:
AYES: Members Adams, Chandler, Stewart, Macevicz, Rice and James
NOES: Member Hillson
ABSENT: None
Member Hillson commented that in voting "No" he was not against the deferment
but against the requirement of posting a bond or filing a lien against the
property.
DIRECTOR'S REPORT
Director Warren pointed out that the Planning Commission meeting scheduled for
October 26 would coincide with the League of California Cities 72nd Annual
Conference being held in San Diego. There will be evening activities which
some of the Commissioners may wish to attend.
MSUC (Stewart-James) The Planning Commission meeting scheduled for October 26, 1970
be cancelled. ,
The Commission discussed the problems involved in prezoning property when develop-
ment plans are also being pursued through County jurisdiction, also the question
of the provision of public facilities.
Chairman Rice expressed objection to saturating an area with high density
development simply because it is adjacent to open space or park area, thereby
making it unavailable to other residents.
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS
Gene York, 280 K Street, commented that he agreed with the statement of the
Chairman regarding open space and park development, but he could not agree with
the philosophy that the people who are buying or renting new homes today should
be forced to provide facilities for the people who are already there. If the
City or County, or whatever public agency, wants to buy the land and develop it
for the general population, there is certainly nothing wrong with that and they
should be able to buy it for the price the developer paid for it, and have a
certain amount of land set aside. He pointed out the developer is not providing
anything; it is the people who are renting or buying the homes that are doing
the providing. Why should 100 units go in and have to provide a park for a thousand
people who are already there. By the same token, by increasing the density, if
you can provide open space even for the people that are going to this particular
development, you are eliminating the fact that these people are going to have to
use the public facilities that are being provided by the taxpayers as a whole.
ADJOURNMENT
MSUC (Hillson-Macevicz) The meeting be adjourned at 10:50 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Helen S. ~apes, secre~t~ary