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HomeMy WebLinkAboutPlanning Comm min 1974/08/14 MINUTES OF A REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY PLANNING COMMISSION OF CHULA VISTA, CALIFORNIA August 14, 1974 The regular meeting of the City Planning Commission of Chula Vista, California was held on the above date beginning at 7:00 p.m. with the following members present: Chandler, Rice, Rudolph, Wilson and Floto. Absent, with previous notification: Member Starr. Also present: Director of Planning Peterson, Current Planning Supervisor Lee, Environmental Review Coordinator Reid, Assistant City Attorney Beam, and Secretary Mapes. Chairman Chandler led the pledge of allegiance to the flag, followed by a moment of silent prayer. APPROVAL OF MINUTES MSUC (Rudolph-Wilson) The minutes of the meeting of July 17, 1974 be approved as mailed. CONSENT CALENDAR 1. Consideration of request to defer undergrounding of utilities, 770 Monterey Court, Joseph Stanley This request is in connection with the construction of a single family house in an improved R-1 area. Adjacent lots are served by overhead wiring; undergrounding for this one lot would necessitate the removal and replacement of approximately 60 feet of sidewalk or street. The gas and electric company has indicated this lot can be adequately served by existing facilities. The staff recon~ends approval of this request subject to an agreement by the applicant not to oppose establish- ment of an underground district at some future date and waiving any protests against such a district. 2. Consideration of request for vacation of Moss Street between I-5 and Bay Boulevard (PCM-74-1), Inland Industries, Inc. Inland Industries, Inc. is proposing to develop 20 acres of land which includes this street right of way. Street improvements have not been installed, however, California-American Water Company has an easement for a water main and fire hydrant within the right of way. The staff recommends that the vacation of Moss Street be approved subject to the retention and continued use of the easement held by the Califonia-American Water Company. 3. Consideration of conformance of location of San Diego County Youth Develop- ment Center with Chula Vista General Plan The State Government Code requires that the location of public facilities shall be determined to be in conformance with the local jurisdiction's General Plan prior to installation. The staff has reviewed the proposed development and con- sidered the Environmental Impact Report on the project, and recommends adoption of a motion finding that the proposed rehabilitation center is in conformance with the Chula Vista General Plan. MSUC (Wilson-Rudolph) The three items on the Consent Calendar be approved in accordance with the staff recommendations. -2- $/14/74 REGULAR CALENDAR 6. PUBLIC HEARING (Cont.): REZONING PCZ-74-H - l0 acres west of Otay Lakes Road, 660 feet north of H Street, C-T-D to P-C or R-3 and C-T Chairman Chandler advised this item is being considered out of order on the agenda due to the applicant's request that the hearing be continued for approximately 30 days. MSUC (Wilson-Rice) The public hearing to consider rezoning PCZ-74-H be continued to the meeting of September 25, 1974. 4. PUBLIC HEARING: EIR-74-8 on Princess Park Estates Environmental Review Coordinator Reid reported that no input had been received from the public or other agencies during the posting period of this report, which covers a two-phase project: use of the site as a borrow pit, and eventual sub- division of the property into residential lots. This being the time and place as advertised, the public hearing was opened. As no one wished to speak, the public hearing was declared closed. MSUC (Rudolph-Rice) The final EIR-74-8 be scheduled for Planning Commission consideration on August 28, 1974. 5. Consideration of tentative map PCS-74-3 of Jay L Jay Apartments condominium conversion, Second Avenue between Palomar & Quintard, Greater Western Real Estate Investment Trust Current Planning Supervisor Lee reported this is a request to convert a 480 unit apartment complex into dondominiums. The property encompasses about 21 acres and will be divided into 7 lots. The units are single story structures in clusters of 4, 8 and 12 units. Mr. Lee advised that the major conflict seems to be in the social impact of the project. Since as high as 60% of the residents receive some form of government assistance, there is concern about the ability of these people to buy a unit and remain in the area. At a selling price of $13,500 for one bedroom and $15,000 for two bedroom units, the monthly pa3nnents would necessarily be higher than the present rental figure. It is the staff's opinion that this map does not conform to the Housing Element of the General Plan which states that housing shall be provided for every economic and racial segment of the City; however, the City Attorney has expressed the opinion that the Housing Element is not specific enough in outlining how this goal would be accomplished, and therefore, the map could not be denied based on inconsistency with the General Plan. Mr. Lee called attention to the conditions recommended by the staff if this map is approved. He noted that the Engineering conditions include a number of public improvements, some of which could be accomplished through a 1911 Act District which provides for lower interest rates. It is also possible that the City Council may modify or waive some of the conditions if assurance is received that the saving would be passed on to buyers of the units. -3- 8/14/74 Mr. Lee suggested that the Commission recommend to the City Council the considera- tion of these alternatives and also that this map be submitted to the Human Relations Commission to obtain their input and recommendation to the City Council. Assistant City Attorney Beam confirmed that it is the opinion of the City Attorney's office that this proposed development is consistent with the General Plan of the City of Chula Vista as presently written. He pointed out that by virtue of that fact, some of the conditions included in the staff report are no longer an issue. He suggested that the first condition which requires the subdivider to submit evidence that the map is consistent with the Housing Element of the General Plan be deleted. Mr. Beam advised that the applicant has some ideas on how the public improvements may be financed in order to keep the selling price of the units as low as possible. Commissioner Rudolph expressed serious concern over the possibility of pricing some of the residents of these apartments out of a home through this conversion. She suggested that the City might be instrumental in forming some kind of a cooperative. Attorney Beam pointed out that the question before the Commission is the approval of the tentative map based on its conformity with the General Plan. He concurred that the Commission could suggest that the staff consider the alternatives available in terms of participation by the City. Clifton Reed, Attorney, lOlO Second Street, San Diego, appearing on behalf of the applicant, advised that with the ruling that the map is in conformity with the General Plan, the applicant has no objection to the other conditions which pertain to installation of public improvements. They agree that these requirements are necessary for the success of the project. He advised that Greater Western is trying to make this conversion in such a way that the housing will be available to those people presently living there without undue hardship. To this end, Mr. Reed was authorized to contact the various State and Federal agencies to help those people who might not be able to achieve ownership without assistance. I~e also reported that Greater Western will take second trust deeds for 25 Or 30 year terms in order to hold down the payments. He advised that they are going to request that public improvements be financed through the 1911 act or 1913 Act. He expressed their intent to keep the price at $12,000 for the one bedroom units, which would result in a monthly payment of approximately $135. He assured the Commission the developer is committed to converting these units at a price the existing tenants can afford as nearly as possible, and further, that the developer is trying to carry out a project that meets the intent of the General Plan to provide housing for low inc~ residents in this area. The Commission discussed maintenance costs under a Homeowners Association as compared to an apartment complex. 8/]4/74 Commissioner Wilson questioned the Engineering requirement for the removal of Italian Cypress trees and their replacement with California Pepper trees. Assistant Director of Public Works Robens pointed out that the existing trees, located in rows perpendicular to the street, present visual restrictions for cars exiting from the driveways and at the int ' of these trees Cs nec~:~- ~- ~ .... ersectlon. Since the removal recommended that they~°~'~ ~n uruer co recmce the traffic hazard, it ~s be replaced with pepper trees on 40 foot centers which can be kept trimmed so as not to become a sight hazard. Allen Jones,Subdivision Coordinator for San Diego Gas and Electric Co., lO1 Ash Street, San Diego, called attention to a letter sent by that company expressing objection to the conversion since the units are mastermetered, with only 3 meters for the 480 units. Under State requirements a fee ownership condominium qualifies as a premise which must be separately metered. Attorney Beam pointed out this is not a valid concern in terms of approval of the subdivision map and are not pertinent to the proceedings here tonight. He Suggested that this matter be discussed with the applicant or his attorney. Clifton Reed, attorney for the applicant, confirmed the requirement by State law for individual meters and assured the Commission of their intent to comply with that law and install individual meters for the units. HSUC (Rudolph-Wilson) Recommend to the City Council the approval of the Tentative map PCS-74-3 for the conversion of the Jay L Jay Apartments to a condominium, subject to the conditions enumerated in the staff report with the deletion of No. 1. The map is also referred to the Human Relations Commission for their input and recommendedation, and further, that the City Council consider with the applicant any means that the City can make available to enhance the chances of providing low income housing in this project. 7. PUBLIC HEARING: CONDITIONAL U~SE PER~IT PCC-74-20 - ReQuest for o eration ~h s~_?_r o era~ion S~~o~'~ ,~l zone, 346~ Current Planning Supervisor Lee reported that the applicant is requesting approval to use the existing education building of the Nazarene Church for an elementary school. He displayed a plot plan showing the location of the building well back from L Street behind the sanctuary, and well separated from residential uses. The school would be in operation from 9:00 a.~. to 3:00 p.m. with child care extended to include 3 hours before school and 3 hours after, so the total operating time would be 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Mr. Lee noted there is ample parking area on the site and it is proposed to use a portion of the parking area for playground use. Tile staff recommends that an enclosed play- ground area be provided for kindergarten students. -' -5- -- 8/14/74 Mr Lee called attention to the request for a ground sign and the staff's suggestion for the design of a 24 sq. ft. sign. This being the time and place as advertised, the public hearing was opened. Ralph Lyons, 838 Floyd Avenue, questioned the feasibility of fencing a portion of the playground area. He pointed out that the fence around the Rice Elementary School is at the western lot line and access to the street is quite well blocked by the sanctuary of the church, tie indicated that children playing outside would always have supervision and he felt a fence would not be necessary. He expressed concurrence with the other recommended conditions. As no one else wished to speak, the public hearing was closed. On a question from the Chairman, Director of Planning Peterson expressed the opinion that some fencing may be desirable, but suggested that the Commission may wish to reword the condition to make it discretionary with the staff, working to meet the applicant's needs. MSUC (Floto-Wilson) Approval of Resolution PCC-74-20 to allow operation of week day elementary school classes in the educational building of the Nazarene Church at 346 L Street, subject to the following conditions: 1. Subject to the approval of the Zoning Administrator, fencing of a portion of the playground area may be required. 2. Prior to issuance of zoning permit or certificate of occupancy, the applicant shall comply with the requirements of Title 19 of the California Code, as set forth by the Chula Vista Fire Marshal, such compliance includes limiting total number of students to the occupancy load specifically approved by the Fire Marshal. 3. The hours of operation shall be limited to 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. on weekdays only. If at any time these hours or days conflict with the Church operation the matter shall be reviewed by the Planning Commission for possible modification. 4. A 24 square foot ground sign shall be permitted uith the design subject to approval of the Zoning Administrator (reference Exhibit C). Findings are as follows: a. The proposed school will provide a desirable service to parents who seek alternative education to the public school system. In this particular location, the school will contribute to the general well- being of the neighborhood and community by offering Day Care service beyond normal school hours. b. The school is located in, an area well separted from residential uses by a major drainage channel, another school and a major road, so that it will not be detrimental to persons or property in this vicinity. c. Subject to the conditions of approval, the church school will comply with the rules specified in the Zoning Ordinance. d. As authorized by this conditional use permit, the church school conforms to the R-~ zone and is consistent with the Chula Vista General Plan. 8. PUBLIC HEARING: Consideration of Safety Element of General Plan Chairman Chandler noted the recommendation in the staff report for continuance of this public hearing to the meeting of August 28, 1974. MSUC (Rice-$~ilson) The public hearing for consideration of the Safety Element to be continued to the meeting of August 28, 1974. 9. PUDLIC HEARING: Consideration of Noise Element of the General Plan Director of Planning Peterson advised that this ns one of the recently mandated General Plan Elements which has been developed according to the guidelines of the State. Results of the investigation with regard to noise indicate that Chula Vista is a fairly quiet community and that the noisier areas are related to vehicular traffic. Existing noise levels were measured at various street locations and on the basis of traffic projections estimates were made of the anticipated noise level. A comparison of the existing and projected noise levels with the standards in the State guidelines revealed that with few exceptions Chula Vista's noise levels are in conformance with the guidelines. Mr. ?eterson pointed out that the major area of discrepancy relates to the noise limits at General Roca Park, Bay General Itospital, Fredricka Manor, the Municipal Golf Course, and at Hilltop and ~lemorial Parks. The noise level at those locations are above the State guidelines of 45 DBA. Most of these sites are on major thoroughfares and no feasible means has been found to reduce the traffic on those streets. Mr. Peterson noted that aside from fulfilling the State requirements, the real value of this Noise Element is the information as to where the noisiest areas, due to traffic, will be, so that appropriate conditions of approval can be established at the time a development proposal is made. This being the time and place as advertised, the public hearing was opened. As no one wished to speak, the public hearing was closed. -7- - 8/14/74 Co~.~missioner Rudolph commented that she felt ~nany areas in Chula Vista have an excesively hiqh noise level and that perhaps the guidelines or permissible standards are set to high. She expressed the i~ope that the Noise Element ,might take a more positive approach rather than accept things as they are. She noted that the implementation plan did not suggest that the City buy an octave band analyzer, although the report mentioned that some of the noise regulations are not enforced because the City Does not have such an analyzer. Mrs. Rudolph further pointed out that in the section on "Effects of Noise" no mention was made of many of the physical effects of noise, although many studies have been made which show that excessive noise effects b}ood pressure, mental health, and many other things. She felt that it should be brought out in the element that even though people may become accustomed to hearing the noise and feel that it doesn't bother them, it may still effect them physiologically. She suggested that the additional health hazards should be included in that section which presently lists only permanent hearing loss and temporary hearing loss as the result of excessive noise. Mrs. Rudolph suggested that under a "public information" section tile report might include a rating of various n~akes of home appliances with regard to the generation of noise within the home. She also felt that although there is no certainty that a major airport may be placed near the Chula Vista area, the report should include the effects of noise in Chula Vista if the airport is located nearby. She quoted from an article published in "Science and Public Affairs," May, 1969, ~hich stated that one does not have to be directly under the flight path of a jet plane in takeoff to receive an earsplitting roar, since a 707 jet, four miles from the point of brake release at the end of the runway, and has attained an altitude of 800 feet, the noise level on the ground one-half mile on either side of the flight path is approximately 85 decibels. Mrs. Rudolph asked if additional effort could be made to route traffic, or at least truck traffic, away from the places which the State designates should have only a 45 decible sound level. Commissioner Rice asked if there is any means by which the City can regulate vehicular noise. Director of Planning Peterson confirmed that the State has preempted tire field of regulating vehicular traffic noise. He reported that no discussion of airport noise was included in the report since C. P. O. has taken the position that Chula Vista ~ill not suffer from noise problems even if the airport is located south of here. He felt if location of the airport reaches a point of certainty, the question of noise will come under very close scrutiny. -8- 8/14/74 Commissioner Rudolph commented on the noise created by motorcycles and asked about the City's power to enforce noise regulation enacted by State and Federal laws. Chairman Chandler interjected that the policy recommended for adoption by the staff is broad enough to cover a number of the specific items raised by Commissioner Rudolph. MSC (l~ilson-Rice) The Noise Element as presented be approved and forwarded to the City Council for adoption. The motion carried by the following vote: AYES: Commissioners Wilson, Rice, Floto and Chandler NOES: Commissioner Rudolph ABSENT: Commissioner Starr A recess was called at 8:30 p.m. and the meeting reconvened at 8:45 p.m. 10. Consideration of PreCise Plan for Industrial Buildings, 388 Bay Boulevard, Charles Offerman Current Planning Supervisor Lee advised that the applicant is proposing to construct four separate industrial warehouse buildings, totalling approximately 70,000 square feet, on the 3 acre site which is zoned I-P and included in Subarea E of the Bayfront Plan. He noted that the proposed land use conforms to the Bayfront Plan and the westerly buildings are located near the railway easement in theevent a rail spur is desired to serve the location, f4r. Lee called attention to the conditions recommended by the staff in recommending approval of the proposed Precise Plan. Although a public hearing is not required, the Chairman called upon the applicant for comments concerning the proposed development. Bob Hammond, 1240 Vernon ~ay, E1Cajon, working with Mr. Offerman, indicated they take no exception to the five conditions enumerated in the report, but questioned the statement in the analysis section of the report which indicated the developer will be required to construct a sewer in Bay Boulevard. He expressed the belief that the sewer is presently being installed by another firm. He felt tire sewer in Bay Boulevard ~ould not benefit this property since there is presently a sewer line in G Street which would serve this property. -9- - 8/14/74 Assistant Director of Public Works Robens confirmed that the sewer in Bay Boulevard is being paid for by Rohr Industries, but under an agreement that as other properties connect to the sewer line they will reimburse Rohr for a proportionate share of the cost. Mr. Hammond expressed objection to the requirement to pay for sewer in Bay Boulevard since he felt the sewer previously installed in G Street by this property owner could adequately handle the needs of the property. Mr. Robens indicated that if the sewer in Bay Boulevard is capable of serving the entire property, then the developer is obligated to pay a portion of the cost of that sewer. He indicated it ~ould take further investigation to determine whether the sewer in G Street can service the entire property. Commissioner Rudolph pointed out that this plan does not fully conform to the criteria adopted for the Bayfront, since it provides for 16 parking spaces in the front portion of the lot, between the building and Bay Boulevard. She suggested that the two front buildings be moved nearer to the front to allow the parking to be located at the rear of the building. Current Planning Supervisor Lee pointed out that the proposed plan provides landscape screenin§ in front of the parking and in front of the buildings which substantially fulfills the requirements of the Bay Front plan. MSC (Rice-Wilson) Recommend to the City Council the approval of the precise plan for industrial development of property at 388 Bay Boulevard as submitted by Charles Offerman, subject to the following conditions, and with the provision that the Department of Public Works determine the need for providing sewer service in Bay Boulevard. 1. Site plan shall be revised to show: a. Separation of the northerly loading bay in Warehouse 1 from the parking lot. b. Ma~n driveway off Bay Blvd. moved south to line up with interior driveway. c. Parking spaces and landscaped areas rearranged. d. Parking spaces blocked by loading docks marked as "Employee Parking". 2. Development of the property shall be subject to site plan and architec- tural review. -10- '- 8/14~74 3. Prior to issuance 0~ any permits the applicant shall provide documenta- tion of legally established parcel boundaries or shall file a parcel map. 4. Development of the property shall conform to the development criteria of the Bayfront Specific Plan. (City Council Resolution No. 7146, adopted January 7, 1974) except as modified in these conditions of approval. 5. Installation of public improvements shall be subject to the approval of the Director of Public Works. The motion carried by the following vote: AYES: Commissioners Rice, Wilson, Floto and Chandler NOES: Commissioner Rudolph ABSENT: Commissioner Starr Il. Consideration of request to modify sign criteria in Bayfront Specific Plan, Bay Blvd. and E Street - Anthony's Fish Grotto Director of Planning Peterson advised that Anthony's Fish Grotto has requested permission to erect a 75 sq. ft. freestanding sign, 25 feet high, oriented towards the freeway. The property is zoned C-V and is located within the Bayfront Area. This type of sign is prohibited in the development criteria for the Bayfront, however, the City Council previously approved a 20 ft. pole sign with an area of 75 sq. ft. for Dixieline Lumber Company contingent upon removal of the sign after 7 years. The thought was that while the area is in transition from industrial use to visitor commercial use some sign arrangements should be made, but after the character of the Bayfront is established under the precise plan, this type of signing would no longer be required and could be removed. Based on that precedent the staff recommends approval of this sign request for a 7 year period, subject to three conditions as listed in the report. Kenneth Mitchell, representing Federal Sign Company, spoke of the need for a freeway sign at this time and confirmed the applicant's willingness to abide by the 7 year program. MSUC (Rudolph-Wilson) Recommend to the City Council approval of a modification of the sign criteria for Subarea "D" of the Bayfront Specific Plan to permit a 75 sq. ft., 25 ft. high sign for Anthony's Fish Grotto, subject to the following conditions: 1. Design and specifications of the sign shall conform to Exhibit A. 2. No other signs facing I-5 or E Street shall be allowed for this establishment. '- -11- "' 8/14/74 3. Prior to issuance of a building permit for the requested sign, the applicant shall execute an agreement with the City and post a surety bond in the amount of $500.00 agreeing to remove the freestanding sign no later than December 31, 1981. 12. COnsideration Of an appeal to change colors of a wall sign, 1478 I~ielrose - RonFlo~d On the advice of the Assistant City Attorney, Commissioner Wilson abstained from discussion or action on this item. Assistant City Attorney Beam advised the applicant that under the terms of the City Charter a majority vote of the entire Commission is required to grant an appeal from a decision of the Zoning Administrator. With Commissioner Wilson~s abstention, only four Commissioners are available to consider this request. He felt the applicant should be given the choice of having it considered at this time or continued to a subsequent meeting when the full Commission would be present. Gordon Boltz, 531 East J Street, one of the partners in the Century 21 office requesting the color change asked that it be considered at this meeting. Current Planning Supervisor Lee passed to the Commission photos taken of the shopping center at Melrose and Orange which show that with the exception of the two major tenants, all other tenants utilize an established theme of blue and white signs of uniform size. The applicant has requested permission to change the colors for their sign to brown and gold, the nationally adopted color scheme for Century 21 realtors. The Zoning Administrator denied the request since it would be a departure from the blue and white color scheme adopted by this center in 1970. Gordon Boltz, 531 East J Street, passed to the Commission displays of photographs of Century 21 signs, submitted that Century 21 is a rapidly growing national company. He felt the image portrayed by their sign is an important asset in that growth, and that the brown and gold color scheme is as important to that image as the logo and lettering style. He cited various national firms that utilize certain colors in their advertising, tte felt the sign for their office should be of the same colors as the for sale signs which they place on property which they have listed. Commissioner Chandler pointed out that the present tenant of the proposed office location is a Century 21 realtor and uses a bSue and white sign. -12- - 8/14/74 Commissioner Rice agreed that the color scheme used nationally by Century 21 is an attractive sign, but pointed out the fact that a coordinated color scheme for the center promotes a better overall development. Commissioner Floto reported that after visiting the center he agrees that the blue and white color scheme looks nice, but he did not feel the Commission could impose this on a particular applicant that had attained a well known image with an established color scheme. Chairman Chandler pointed out that at this particular center there are already two facilities utilizing different colors and for that reason he would favor granting this request for deviation from the color theme. MS (Floto-Chandler) The request for change of colors for the sign of Floyd-Boltz Realtors at 1478 Melrose Avenue be approved. The motion failed by the following vote: AYES: Commissioners Floto, Chandler and Rudolph NOES: Commissioner Rice ABSTAINED: Commissioner ~ilson ABSENT: Commissioner Starr 13. Consideration of request for amendment to the Precise Plan for the Chula Vista MediCal Center, 480 Fourth Ave. - Pacific Sign construCtion Director of Planning Peterson advised that a request has been made for a 10 ft. high sign, 72 sq. ft. in area for the main face of the sign with a smaller copy area of approximately 6 sq. ft. added to identify the pharmacy in the building. Under the provisions of the "P" Modifying District the Planning Commission has the authority to approve this request. Mr. Peterson pointed out that both the site and the building are large, so that a relatively large sign can be justified. He pointed out that a small sign would tend to be blocked from the view of southbound traffic by the zoning wall on the north. The staff recommends approval of the dimensions and design as shown on Exhibit A enclosed with the staff report. MSUC (Wilson-Rudolph) The request for amendment to the Precise Plan to permit a sign as proposed for the Chula Vista Medical Center be approved. DIRECTOR'S REPORT Director of Planning Peterson asked if the Commission desired to have a dinner -13- 8/14/74 meeting on August 21st with the workshop session beginning at 5:00 p.m. He indicated there is no urgent item for discussion at the meeting and if the Commission preferred the meeting could be cancelled. It was moved by Commissioner Wilson, and concurred by the other Commissioners, that the workshop meeting regularly scheduled for August 21, 1974 be cancelled. COi~MISSION CO~IMENTS Commissioner Rice reported that he would be on vaction the last two weeks in August and asked to be excused from the meeting of August 28. Commissioner Rudolph expressed interest in the articles on development rights transfer, and felt the City should explore the possibility of a similar concept for the Bayfront Area. Mrs. Rudolph also expressed concern that the action taken by the City Council to reduce speeds on Second Avenue would not solve the basic problem of excess traffic on Second Avenue due to the rerouting of Highway 54 traffic. Director of Planning Peterson advised that the Council did refer the problem to the State Department of Transportation and a letter is being sent to that department to see if they can offer a solution to the problem. If they have none the problem will be discussed again by the City Council. Commissioner Rice commented on the need for improvement in the landscaping at the Melrose and Orange shopping center and on the perpetual problem of paving of the parking lot at the Hilltop and Naples center. ADJ OURNIIEI;T Chairman Chandler adjourned the meeting at 10:00 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Helen Mapes Secretary