HomeMy WebLinkAbout1980-10-21MINUTES
HUNTINGTON BEACH PLANNING COMMISSION
Council Chambers - Civic Center
2000 Main Street
Huntington Beach, California
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 21, 1980 - 7:00 PM
COMMISSIONERS PRESENT: Bannister, Winchell, Porter, Schumacher
(7:15)
COMMISSIONERS ABSENT: Greer, Kenefick
CONSENT CALENDAR:
ON MOTION BY BAUER AND SECOND BY SCHUMACHER THE CONSENT CALENDAR,
CONSISTING OF THE MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING OF OCTOBER 7,
1980, AND CONFORMANCE WITH GENERAL PLAN NO. 80-15, WAS APPROVED
BY THE FOLLOWING VOTE:
AYES: Bannister,
NOES: None
ABSENT: Kenefick,
ABSTAIN: None
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS:
None
Winchell, Schumacher, Bauer
Porter, Greer
REGULAR AGENDA ITEMS:
CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT NO. 80-29
Applicant: Barry and Joanne Briggs
To permit the use a an existing building of over 2500 square
feet as a weight training center located in Units 51, 52, and 53
of the Seacliff Village shopping center at Main Street and York-
town Avenue.
Staff reported no additional information, and the public hearing
was opened. No one was present to speak for or against the
proposed use, and the public hearing was closed.
Commission discussion ensued.
ON MOTION BY BANNISTER AND SECOND BY SCHUMACHER CONDITIONAL USE
PERMIT NO. 80-29 WAS APPROVED WITH THE FOLLOWING FINDINGS AND
CONDITIONS, BY THE FOLLOWING VOTE:
Minutes, H.B. Planning Commission
October 21, 1980
Page 2
FINDINGS:
1. The proposed use substantially complies with the applicable pro-
visions of the Huntington Beach Ordinance Code.
2. The proposed use will generally be compatible with surrounding
land uses and onsite parking will not be impacted by the pro-
posed use.
CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL:
1. The site plan and floor plans dated September 25, 1980, shall be
the approved layout.
2. Signing for the use shall be subject to the requirements of the
approved sign program for the shopping center.
3. The Planning Commission reserves the right to rescind this con-
ditional use permit approval in the event of any violation of the
applicable zoning laws. Any such decision shall be preceded by
notice to the applicant and a public hearing, and shall be based
upon specific findings.
AYES: Bannister, Winchell, Schumacher, Bauer
NOES: None
ABSENT: Kenefick, Greer
ABSTAIN: Porter
COASTAL ELEMENT TO THE GENERAL PLAN (Cont. from October 7, 1980)
Consideration of the downtown section of the Coastal Element, a
State -mandated plan which will be an addition to the General Plan
of the City of Huntington Beach.
June Catalano described three alternative proposals which have been
worked out by staff and the Local Coastal Program -Citizens Advisory
Committee. These proposals have tried to combine technical planning
aspects and the constraints of the downtown area with the expressed
public desires concerning the downtown development. Alternative I
is a low -intensity, village atmosphere; Alternative II presents a
more urban character for the downtown; and Alternative III is the
highest intensity land use proposed. Both II and III propose multi-
story construction ( 6 stories in II and 12 stories in III, with the
first block inland from Pacific Coast Highway limited to 3 stories
to lessen visual and traffic impacts.) Ms. Catalano outlined the
recreation, visitor -serving, office/professional, and residential
uses proposed for each alternative.
Commissioner Bauer pointed out that before selecting any of the alt-
ernatives the City must consider how to provide transportation and
parking for the area; also of vital importance is the question of
where the financing for surface street improvement and public tran-
sit will be found.
-2- 10-21-80 - P.C.
Minutes, H.B. Planning Commission
October 21, 1980
Page 3
Ms. Catalano referred to a technical memo addressing these prob-
lems which had previously been submitted; this memo had con-
sidered funding the improvements partially by a parking assessment
district. She added that the memo had been submitted to Public
Works, and that department reports that no basic constraints exist
in the downtown which would preclude implementation of any one of
the proposed alternatives.
The public hearing was opened. The following persons addressed
the Commission with the following comments:
Doug Langemin, 8196 Nantucket Drive: Mr. Langemin expressed
preference for the Alternative I plan. He suggested two additions:
1) use of a theme, such as "Seacoast Village" or a Downtown Main
Street circa 1910; 2) Inclusion of a residential area close in,
so that a certain percentage of buildings could be owner/resident
use, with an owner living above his shop.
Frank Mola, 808 Adams Avenue: Mr. Mola stated that in order to
achieve the highest and best use of the area to accomplish coastal
goals (which in his opinion seem to be directed toward allowing
maximum use of the coastal area), large expenditures in the down-
town area are needed, and the present development constraints
provide landowners no incentive to expend such funds. Good devel-
opment depends upon density, and the City should make a total
commitment in the area to provide landowners with the incentive to
develop and upgrade their properties.
He recommended Alternative II or III or possibly a mix of the
two with sufficient density to attract quality development.
Ken Flint, 408 loth Street: Mr. Flint said that the best alter-
native would be Alternative I; he objected to any high density
along the coast or through the Main Street area, saying that
traffic would increase as a result of any one of the proposals.
Bob Terry, Chairman of the Downtown Committee: Mr. Terry des-
cribed the study this committee has made of the downtown, which
resulted in a motion that the area be developed as a mixed use
containing hotels, motels, restaurants, places of entertainment,
office, specialty commercial, and residential. The committee
also voted to recommend deletion of all reference to height lim-
itation, addition of a provision to allow additional office and
residential above the first floors, and encouragement of a
height limit greater than three stories for a hotel in the area.
He emphasized that an alternative must be selected which will
be economically feasible to implement.
Lance Jacot, 215 Crest Avenue: Mr. Jacot advocated support of
the Alternative I proposal, saying that he has found virtually
unanimous support for such an approach and unanimous opposition
to a high density, urban -like environment.
Nancy Aldridge, 406 llth Street: Ms. Aldridge cited the problems
which have resulted in the downtown through the construction of
-3- 10-21-80 - P.C.
Minutes, H.H. Planning Commission
October 21, 1980
Page 4
fourplexes and other higher density developments in the Townlot
areas, problems which she says are compounded by absentee ownership.
She also discussed police problems and the earthquake hazard con-
struction of highrise in the downtown might cause. It was Ms. Ald-
rich`s conclusion that the people in the area would prefer Alterna-
tive I.
Gloria Hemsley, 6902 Seaway: Ms. Hemsley cited the need for park-
ing facilities, which she said had not been addressed in any of the
alternative plans. She is also concerned that the future buildings
be compatible with what is presently constructed and that it is
imperative that the Commission make a decision as to height limit.
Gary Turman, 5112 Briarhill Drive, Yorba Linda: Mr. Turman informed
the Commission that the City has inadequate facilities for the
people who already visit the area, and care must be taken that any-
thing that is decided upon will still be adequate to handle visitors
5 or 10 years in the future.
Charles Case, 810 Palm Avenue: Mr. Case said that it is critical
to the lives and sense of wellbeing of the citizens of the area that
things remain as they are. He suggested that if an Alternative I
situation seems not to be viable to property owners they should
consider Belmont Shore, a similar area that is doing quite well even
with difficult parking problems.
Jennie Pyle, 215 5th Street: Ms. Pyle cautioned against letting
nostalgia for the old downtown prevent change. She stated that the
old rundown structures will prevent anyone from erecting good new
buildings, and that in her opinion the City has a choice of either
permitting the area to continue going downhill or considering high-
rise. Mr. Pyle also discussed possible benefits which might be
derived from highrise, such as providing more people with ocean views
than is presently possible.
Peter von Elten, 808 Adams Avenue: Mr. von Elten stated that he feels
any plan should provide more flexibility for developers, a considera-
tion which is presently of more importance than the height limitation.
He urged that a concrete plan be adopted under which property can
be developed, but objected to the designation of a square block of
property which his firm owns as "visitor -serving," a use which he
said might not be economically viable for the site.
Herbert Sanke, 21006 Ocean Avenue: Mr. Sanke spoke against allowing
highrise without considering the amount of traffic and parking which
would result. He also asked that consideration be given to the
existing mobilehome parks farther to the east of the downtown.
Dr. Stephen Goldberger, 20291 Harpoon Circle: Mr. Goldberger dis-
cussed the development philosophy of intensive development versus
the retention of the existing lifestyle, opting for an area of
single-family homes with low density, low smog, and low crime.
-4- 10-21-80 - P.C.
Minutes, H.B. Planning Commission
October 21, 1980
Page 5
There being no other persons to speak in regard to the three
alternatives, the public hearing was closed.
June Catalano outlined the remaining hearings, which will con-
sist of another public hearing before the Planning Commission
on October 28, 1980, with possible continuation of a decision
to November 4 or November 18. The City Council will then hold
public hearings and, after approval by the City, the plan will
be heard by both the Regional and State Coastal Commissions
before it is finalized.
The Commission recessed at 8:25 p.m. and reconvened at 8:35
p.m.
LAND USE ELEMENT 80-2/GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT/EIR 80-3
Requests for changes in the land use designations as shown in
the General Plan for the following areas of concern:
Area of Concern 2.1 - 46.64 acres located south of Ellis Avenue
east of Goldenwest Street, from Estate
Residential to High Density Residential.
Area of Concern 2.2 - 59.55 acres located south of Adams Avenue
east of Beach Boulevard, from Resource
Production, Commercial, and Low Density
Residential to Commercial, Medium and High
Density Residential
Area of Concern 2.3 - 10.18 acres south of Warner Avenue west
of Beach Boulevard, from Commercial to
Commercial with Multi -Story Suffix.
Area of Concern 2.4 - 10.13 acres located north of Warner Ave-
nue west of Magnolia Street, from Low
Denisty Residential to Commercial.
Area of Concern 2.5 - 10 acres located north of Ellis Avenue
west of Gothard Street, from Industrial
to Open Space.
Area of Concern 2.1
The Commission determined to take testimony and make a determina-
tion on each area of concern separately.
Chuck Clark explained the alternatives available; i.e., retention
of the existing designation , designation of the entire area
as industrial, or a combination of medium and high density resi-
dential designations. He outlined the reasons for the staff's
recommendation for retention of estate designation and the exten-
sion of that designation easterly to provide a logical boundary
at the Gothard/Crystal realignment.
The public hearing on Area of Concern 2.1 was opened.
Frank Mola addressed the Commission to urge redesignation of the
area to medium or high density residential, saying that the
-5- 10-21-80 - P..C.
Minutes, H.B. Planning Commission
October 21, 1980
Page 6
development of estate -sized lots would be unsuitable for the site
and incompatible with the existing industrial and oil -related uses
in the area.
There were no other persons to speak for or against the proposal,
and the public hearing was closed.
Commissioner Schumacher discussed the compatibility of estate devel-
opment with existing uses, saying that she believed there would be
a market for such a use. Ms. Schumacher also said that existing
traffic and circulation patterns in the city would not support high
density development in the area.
A motion was made by Commissioner Bannister to change the current
estate designation within the area of concern to high density resi-
dential. Motion failed for lack of a second.
ON MOTION BY WINCHELL AND SECOND BY SCHUMACHER THE COMMISSION DETER-
MINED TO RETAIN THE EXISTING ESTATE DESIGNATION IN AREA OF CONCERN
2.1 AND EXTEND THAT DESIGNATION TO THE PROPOSED PRECISE ALIGNMENT OF
GOTHARD STREET, BY THE FOLLOWING VOTE:
AYES:
Winchell, Porter, Schumacher, Bauer
NOES:
Bannister
ABSENT:
Kenefick, Greer
ABSTAIN:
None
Area of Concern 2.2
Chuck Clark described the alternatives the staff had considered for
this area and outlined the recommendation arrived at: To change
the 6 acres at the intersection of Adams and Beach from resource pro-
duction to commercial; to establish a high density residential on the
remainder of the area west of the flood control channel; and to es-
tablish medium density residential on the area east of the channel
except for the southerly 14 acres, which would be designated as low
density residential to permit completion of the street pattern in the
existing development to the south. At the request of the Commission
Savoy Bellavia reviewed the unit count per acre allowed by each of
the density designations and June Catalano explained the State legis-
lation in regard to provision of affordable housing through developer
agreements.
The Commission discussed the goals contained in the Housing Element
for the provision of affordable housing and"the application of the
recently enacted State provisions to a development. Legal counsel
Jim Georges stated that the provision of the Government Code providing
for a density bonus if at least 25 percent of a development is
affordable housing is mandatory and not permissive - a municipality
must grant such a bonus if a developer is willing to enter into an
agreement for affordable housing. This bonus, it was explained by
staff, is applicable at the time a project is brought in for entitle-
ment and not at the time the zoning is granted. Commissioner Winchell
expressed the concern that granting the high density designation at
this time with a density bonus later would constitute granting a much
higher density bonus than originally intended.
i]
LJ
-6- 10-21-80 - P.C.
Minutes, H.B. Planning Commission
October 21, 1980
Page 7
The public hearing on Area of Concern 2.2 was opened.
John Goodell presented a petition into the record in opposition
to the requested redesignation of the area of concern. He
said it had been signed by 487 taxpayers objecting to the intro-
duction of either moderate or high density development into
the vicinity or the provision of low and moderate income housing.
Frank Mola, applicant, addressed the Commission in support of
his request. He said that the existing high traffic patterns
and the topographical problems on the portion of the property
west of the flood control channel make it unsuitable for single-
family development and that in his opinion medium density on
the easterly portion of the site would provide a quality develop-
ment that would be compatible with surrounding uses. He emphazized
that it was not his intention to put "low cost" housing into
the area.
Dr. Alfred Klineman addressed the Commission to describe research
literature linking increased density in housing with various
types of mental illnesses and disruption of family life and to
urge that the quality of life be maintained in Huntington Beach.
John Guerno spoke in opposition to changing the designation,
citing the existence of fault lines through the property. He
also questioned the procedure used for notifying the public of
this hearing.
Peter von Elten, legal counsel for the applicant, spoke in
support of the request, noting that the construction of single-
family homes on individual lots is no longer an economically
viable approach because of the rapidly increasing land and con-
struction costs.
Gene Fallon, 8231 Munster, Huntington Beach, addressed the Com-
mission in favor of retaining the low density designation on
the site. He said that he had bought his house with that under-
standing and did not like to see the zoning changed; he also
asked if there could be a feasibility study conducted as to the
cost to taxpayers in City services for the additional density
on the property. Mr. Fallon also noted that there are birds
and animals on the site which should be considered.
Michael McDonald, 20072 Cape Cottage Drive, also opposed the
redesignation of the property, saying that he too had bought his
home with the understanding that the zoning next to him was R1.
Harold Ewing, 20242 Lighthouse Circle, discussed earthquake
safety on the property and the possibility that future inhabi-
tants would have to be evacuated and housed elsewhere in the
event of a seismic occurrence.
Mike Molke addressed thr crime potential high density might
involve, and spoke in favor of single-family development.
-7- 10-21-80 - P.C.
Minutes, H.B. Planning Commission
October. -21, 1980
Page 8
Ed Kuhlmann, 8232 Munster Drive, spoke in favor of low density
discussing traffic concerns, which streets would be going through
from the tract to the south, and the quality of the ensuing pro-
ject if it should be redesignated. He asked that the people in
the area be involved with any future rezoning or development pro-
ject.
Jule D'Angelo, 20202 Cape Cottage Drive, also favored the low den-
sity designation, saying that more intensive development would
lead to traffic and crime problems.
Larry Keaton spoke in regard to the animals and birds using the
site as a habitat and requested that a wildlife survey be done prior
to redesignation of the area.
Richard Smith, 20161 South New Britain Lane, addressed the loss of
light and privacy which might result because of the more intensive
development of the site.
Regina Goss, a 15-year resident on Munster Drive, suggested that if
no one wishes any development to take place the City should buy
back the land and leave it in agriculture.
Carol Gora, 8252 Munster Drive, cited traffic and school problems
as a basis for opposing any higher density designation on the site.
Gene Shaffer asked for reinforced environmental information because
of the following: 1) 57 vario-ties of birds inhabit the site, in-
cluding the endangered osprey; 2) fish inhabit the pond; 3) the pond
is probably fed by natural springs; 4) the ground is weakened by
oil production and the site is in an area where seismic activity
can be expected; and 5) any development on the site will result in
an adverse effect on the overall air quality of the community.
Mary Lent, nearby resident, also opposed the redesignation of the
site because people had bought their homes under the impression
that the area would remain low density residential.
Hal Coffey said that Huntington Beach probably has more reasonably
priced housing than any other beach community, that there is plenty
of high density housing north of Adams Avenue, and that if the owner
has the option of proposing high density the residents should also
have the option of proposing that the area be designated as open
space.
George Johnson, 20221 South New Britain Lane, said he is in
favor of retaining the low density designation for the property.
Pat Guzman, 20021 North New Britain Lane, also favored low density.
Colin Guiver, Pacific Sands resident, objected to not having been
informed by the City of this proposal. Secretary Palin reported to
the Commission and the public on the legal requirements for notifi-
cation and the method which the City had followed in this matter.
-8- 1-21-80 - P.C.
Minutes, H.B. Planning Commission
October 21, 1980
Page 9
The public hearing on Area of Concern 2.2 was closed.
The Commission discussed briefly the acceptability of some
increased density along the Beach Boulevard portion of the
property, and the procedural steps involved in a partial
approval, a denial, or a deletion of the request.
ON MOTION BY BAUER AND SECOND BY SCHUMACHER THE COMMISSION
DETERMINED TO DELETE AREA OF CONCERN 2.2 FROM THE LAND USE
ELEMENT AMEND14ENT TO THE GENERAL PLAN, BY THE FOLLOWING VOTE:
AYES: Winchell, Porter, Schumacher, Bauer
NOES: Bannister
ABSENT: Kenefick, Greer
ABSTAIN: None
The Commission recessed at 10:30 and reconvened at 10:45 p.m.
Area of Concern 2.3
The public hearing was opened. There were no persons to speak
for or against the proposal, and the public hearing was closed.
Chuck Clark explained that it had been the staff's recommenda-
tion to expand the multi -story designation from that origin-
ally requested by the applicant.
Commission discussion ensued.
ON MOTION BY SCHUMACHER AND SECOND BY BAUER THE COMMISSION
APPROVED AREA OF CONCERN 2.3 AS RECOMMENDED BY STAFF BY THE
FOLLOWING VOTE:
AYES: Bannister, Winchell, Porter, Schumacher, Bauer
NOES: None
ABSENT: Kenefick, Greer
ABSTAIN: None
Area of Concern 2.4
Chuck Clark discussed the alternatives analyzed by staff and
reported that the recommendation was for a commercial desig-
nation.
In response to questioning from Commissioner Bannister, City
staff informed the Commission that negotiations are still in
progress between the City, the developer, and the Orange County
Flood Control District in regard to the location of a water
well and the covering of the flood control channel for access
to the site and it is hoped to have both these problems
resolved soon.
-9- 10-21-80 - P.C.
Minutes, H.B. Planning Commission
October 21, 1980
Page 10
The public hearing was opened.
Ed Blain, 16901 Roque Lane, addressed the Commission to discuss
the possible traffic impacts which high density commercial at the
proposed location might have on the adjacent residential tract. He
asked that in the event the redesignation is allowed Conners Lane
remain closed to keep commercial traffic out of the housing tract.
Mr. Huish, operater of a recreation center across the street from
the subject property, also discussed how access would be taken and
how the commercial use of the property would affect traffic turning
movements into the already developed parcels.
David Dahl, 1720 Pacific Coast Highway, the applicant for the amend-
ment, spoke to the Commission to describe his plans in general and
explain that it is their intention to meet with the neighbors in the
area and discuss with them what is proposed concerning access and
other problems. He asked approval of the commercial designation
with the understanding that setbacks, access, etc. would be worked
out through a specific plan for development.
The public hearing was closed.
Commissioner Bannister expressed continuing reservations about
approving the commercial designation prior to a resolution of the
negotiations with the Flood Control District. Mr. Dahl said that
his understanding of those negotiations is that they have proceeded
far enough that finalization is almost a formality; he also cited
precedents for the covering of the channels and said that the
County has no history of denial of a request of that nature.
Further discussion ensued.
ON MOTION BY BANNISTER AND SECOND BY BAUER THE COMMISSION APPROVED
AREA OF CONCERN 2.4 TO REDESIGNATE THE REQUESTED AREA TO COMMER-
CIAL, BY THE FOLLOWING VOTE:
AYES:
Bannister,
NOES:
None
ABSENT:
Kenefick,
ABSTAIN:
None
Area of Concern 2.5
Winchell, Porter, Schumacher, Bauer
Greer
Staff had no additional information to submit.
The public hearing was opened.
Joe Whaling, 6732 Calpe, spoke in opposition to the redesignation
of this parcel at Ellis Avenue and Gothard Street, saying that there
is at present no reason to add park area when existing parks are
going undeveloped for lack of funds.
1
-10- 10-21-80 P.C.
Minutes, H.B. Planning Commission
October 21, 1980
Page 11
Robert Monroe, representing Sully -Miller (owner of part of the subject
property) also spoke in favor of retaining the existing indus-
trial designation on this 10-acre parcel, citing the intrusion into
an existing industrial area which would be created, the taking of
the property off the tax rolls and adding a potential financial bur-
den to the public, and the appearance of "spot zoning" which it
appears would result from the redesignation.
Ed Zschoche also spoke in opposition to the redesignation and in
addition objected to the commercialization of Central Park by the
installation of a recreational vehicle park area.
A. C. Marion requested clarification of the area which would be
covered by this portion of the amendment.
There being no other persons to address the matter, the public
hearing on Area of Concern 2.5 was closed. The Commission reviewed
the proposal and the public comments.
ON MOTION BY BAUER AND SECOND BY SCHUMACHER AREA OF CONCERN NO.
2.5 WAS DELETED FROM LAND USE ELEMENT AMENDMENT TO THE GENERAL
PLAN 80-2, BY THE FOLLOWING VOTE:
AYES: Bannister, Winchell, Porter, Schumacher, Bauer
NOES: None
ABSENT: Kenefick, Greer
ABSTAIN: None
Amendment to Standards and Criteria of the Land Use Element:
June Catalano outlined the provisions for a density bonus for
the construction of affordable housing within a development as
suggested by staff in this section of the amendment. She pointed
out that there is presently no language in the General Plan to
comply with the State -mandated density bonus, which requires
that a bonus be granted or other concessions made to any developer
who proposes to include at least 25 percent affordable housing
in a project. The proposals submitted by staff would establish
standard findings with which any proposed project would have to
comply in order to be granted this bonus, and would serve to give
the City a measure of control over the means it would apply to
conform to the new State legislation.
In the discussion which followed, the Commissioners made the
following comments:
Commissioner Bannister expressed the need for a definitive de-
cision from the City Council in regard to low-cost housing before
any decision is made on this matter.
Commissioner Bauer said he felt the City would have greater
flexibility in approving developments if these findings are not
adopted, but if each development is addressed on its own merits
-11- 10-21-80 - P.C.
Minutes, H.B. Planning Commission
October 21, 1980
Page 12
when it is filed. It was his feeling that a decision on this matter
will be of tremendous importance and alternatives need to be examined
which will preclude automatic approval of what may be a violation of
the intent of elected and/or appointed City officials and which may
lead to building ghettos in the community.
Commissioner Schumacher questioned the method by which people will
qualify for purchase of the affordable housing and how it could be
guaranteed to remain affordable after it is constructed.
Legal counsel Jim Georges confirmed the mandatory nature of the
applicable section of the Government Code (S. 65915) and staff mem-
ber Bill Holman pointed out that failure to grant the density bonus
might force the City into granting other alternatives that bould be
considerably more expensive for the City in the long run in terms
of infrastructure costs involved.
The public hearing on the amendment to the standards and criteria
was opened.
Frank Mola addressed the Commission in support of adoption of the
proposed regtired findings.
There were no other persons present to speak for or against the pro-
posal, and the public hearing was closed.
Further discussion followed.
ON MOTION BY BANNISTER AND SECOND BY BAUER THE COMMISSION DELETED
THE PROPOSED AMENDMENT TO THE STANDARDS AND CRITERIA FROM THE LAND
USE ELEMENT AMENDMENT, BY THE FOLLOWING VOTE:
AYES: Bannister, Winchell, Porter, Schumacher, Bauer
NOES: None
ABSENT: Kenefick, Greer
ABSTAIN: None
ON MOTION BY PORTER AND SECOND BY SCHUMACHER ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT
REPORT NO. 80-3 WAS APPROVED AND RECOMMENDED FOR CERTIFICATION BY
THE CITY COUNCIL, BY THE FOLLOWING VOTE:
AYES: Winchell, Porter, Schumacher, Bauer
NOES: None
ABSENT: Kenefick, Greer
ABSTAIN: Bannister
ON MOTION BY SCHUMACHER AND SECOND BY PORTER THE COMMISSION
APPROVED LAND USE ELEMENT AMENDMENT TO THE GENERAL PLAN NO. 80-2
THROUGH THE ADOPTION OF AMENDED RESOLUTION NO. 1268, FOR RECOMMENDA-
TION TO THE CITY COUNCIL, BY THE FOLLOWING VOTE:
AYES: Winchell, Porter, Schumacher, Bauer
NOES: None
ABSENT: Kenefick, Greer
ABSTAIN: Bannister
1
-12- 10-21-80 - P.C.
Minutes, H.B. Planning Conunission
October 21, 1980
Page 13
Commissioner Porter left the meeting at 11:45 p.m. after turn-
ing the chair over to Vice Chairman Winchell.
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT - OPEN SPACE AND CONSERVATION ELEMENT
NO. 80-1 ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT NO. 80-4
Amendment to permit expansion of Huntington Central Park by
approximately 75 acres and various amendments to neighborhood
park system, consisting of the following:
A. 40 acres -located north of Ellis Avenue between Edwards and
Goldenwest Streets.
B. 25.3 acres located north of'Ellis Avenue and east of Golden -
west Street.
C. 10 acres located north of Ellis Avenue and west of Gothard
Street.
Add designations for: Conrad, Trinidad Beach, French, Prince,
Gibbs, and Carr Parks.
Relocation designa-
tions for: McCallen, Manning, and Edison Right--of-
way, east of Brookhurst Street, park
sites.
Delete designations
for: Westmont, Old Civic Center, Peterson,
and Goldenwest/Palm Avenue park sites.
Planner Bill Holman made a presentation of the areas and issues
contained in the draft amendment. Commissioner Bannister
questioned the effect this redesignation might have on property
values in the area and how property owners could be recompensed.
Legal counsel Jim Georges informed the Commission that amending
the General Plan does not give rise to a cause of action for in-
verse condemnation. In response to Mr. Bannister's inquiry as
to whether or not the redesignation would make it more difficult
for a property owner to develop his land, Mr. Georges noted that
an owner could file a request under existing zoning; however, it
would in all likelihood be denied for lack of conformance with
the amended General Plan.
The public hearing was opened.
An unidentified man addressed the Commission to request that
this amendment not be approved until a specific plan has been
adopted for the area and property owners have been negotiated
with.
J.T. Hudson, 818 14th Street also opposed the amendment, stat-
ing that the City has too much parkland already.
-13- 10-21-80 - P.C.
Minutes, H.B. Planning Commission
October 21, 1980
Page 14
A.C. Marion, owner of some of the property in question, cited
what he called a long history of inaction by the City and
urged that some decision be arrived at.
David Dahl, representing Pacific American Oil Company, asked
that the City not take this kind of action unless and until it
is ready to pay for the additional park acquisition.
Gary Turman also spoke against the redesignation.
Avery Eaton, 17524 Santa Paula Circle, Fountain Valley, said
that he owns eight lots in the area and is not against the
expansion of the park if the City is willing to pay a fair market ----
value for the properties. Mr. Eaton added that it would be his
intent to file a court action in the event that this land is bought
for a park and later on developed as something else, however.
Ray Hendron, 8859 Rhine River, Fountain Valley, spoke against the
addition to the park, but if the redesignation is approved the
City should be prepared to pay full market price for it at its
present value.
Peter Laimbeer, 3704 West Camille, Santa Ana, noted that there is
a great discrepancy in the prices being obtained for property
directly across the street from some of the affected properties.
He also questioned the addition to Central Park when the City is
eliminating small parks from its plans for lack of funds.
Richard Meyer, 13191 Newland, Garden Grove, opposed the addition
to the park.
Virginia Gross asked for a fair return on her investment in the
area.
Two other unidentified persons also spoke to object to the taking
of their properties for the park, questioning the added maintenance
costs to the City which would result and the fairness of delayed
compensation.
There were no other persons to address the Commission, and the
public hearing was closed.
In the discussion among staff and the Commission which followed,
Secretary Palin explained the requirement that any land which is to
be acquired by the expenditure of recreation and parks funds must
first be designated as a park site, and Commissioner Winchell
pointed out that the reason this amendment is before the Commission
is that the City Council directed that the redesignation be done.
The desirability of adding to the park was discussed, and the general
consensus of the Commission was that land should only be acquired if
there were a real need for additional park acreage, not just a
"want" on someone's part, and that "need" has not been demonstrated.
The Commission also discussed the suggested additions, relocations,
and deletions suggested by staff for certain neighborhood parks in
the City, and staff explained the proposed action in each case.
-14- 10-21-80 - P.C.
Minutes, H.B. Planning Commission
October 21, 1980
Page 15
Staff asked that Conrad Park be taken off the list of parks to
be added, as it is maintained by a private homeonwers' associa-
tion. The Commission asked that the designation for the quarter
section southeast of Brookhurst and Garfield remain flexible so
that either the Edison right-of-way or Lamb School could be con-
sidered as a neighborhood park site. Commissioner Schumacher
asked that the proposed deletion of the park sites at Goldenwest
and Palm Avenue not be included in Amendment 80-1. Richard
Harlow, representing the Huntington Beach Company, addressed the
Commission to urge that both these sites be deleted from the
General Plan, saying that the City has no interest in pursuing
either of the sites. Commissioner Schumacher, however, suggested
that these parcels might possibly be useful in the future as a
basis for a trade-off for another location; the Commission con-
curred with this approach.
Commissioner Bauer expressed the hope that any transmittal to
the City Council would include the rationale of the Commission
in its action on the amendment; i.e., the feeling that the land
can be acquired if the City is willing and able to buy it now,
the question of whether or not the City should be entering into
the type of private enterprise proposed for the park, and is there
a real need for more area in Central Park, or just a desire on
someone's part to increase the size of the park.
The Commission determined to make no changes to the areas out-
lined in the draft resolution (the 40 acre area north of Ellis
Avenue between Edwards Street and Goldenwest Street and the
25.3 acre area located north of Ellis Avenue east of Goldenwest
Street).Specific note was made that the 10 acre site at north
of Ellis Avenue west of Gothard Street was not to be redesig-
nated to open space; this was done even though that particular
area had not been included in the draft resolution prepared
-for this amendment.
ON MOTION BY SCHUMACHER AND SECOND BY WINCHELL EIR 80-4 WAS
APPROVED AND RECOMMENDED FOR CERTIFICATION AS BEING COMPLETE AND
IN CONFORMANCE WITH CEQA, BY THE FOLLOWING VOTE:
AYES: Bannister, Winchell, Schumacher, Bauer
NOES: None
ABSENT: Kenefick, Porter, Greer
ABSTAIN: None
ON MOTION BY BAUER AND SECOND BY BANNISTER OPEN SPACE AND CON-
SERVATION ELEMENT AMENDMENT NO. 80-1 WAS APPROVED BY THE ADOPTION
OF AMENDED RESOLUTION NO. 1269 AND RECOMMENDED FOR ADOPTION BY
THE CITY COUNCIL, BY THE FOLLOWING VOTE:
AYES: Bannister, Winchell, Schumacher, Bauer
NOES: None
ABSENT: Kenefick, Porter, Greer
ABSTAIN: None
-15- 10-21-80 - P.C.
Minutes, H.B. Planning Commission
October 21, 1980
Page 16
DISCUSSION ITEMS:
CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT NO. 79-20
Request for Extension of Time
Savoy Bellavia reported that the applicant has requested a continu-
ance of this item to the meeting of November 4, 1980. The Commission
concurred with the request for continuance.
ZONE CHANGE NO. 80-9
Request for Revision to Conditions of Approval
ON MOTION BY BAUER AND SECOND BY SCHUMACHER THIS REQUEST WAS CONTIN-
UED TO THE MEETING OF NOVEMBER 4, 1980, BY THE FOLLOWING VOTE:
AYES: Bannister, Winchell, Schumacher, Bauer
NOES: None
ABSENT: Kenefick, Porter, Greer
ABSTAIN: None
SERVICE STATION CONVERSIONS
ON MOTION BY BAUER AND SECOND BY SCHUMACHER THIS ITEM WAS CONTIN-
UED FOR DISCUSSION AT THE MEETING OF NOVEMBER 4, 1980, BY THE
FOLLOWING VOTE:
AYES: Bannister, Winchell, Schumacher, Bauer
NOES: None
ABSENT: Kenefick, Porter, Greer
ABSTAIN: None
CITY COUNCIL REVIEW
Secretary Palin reviewed the City Council actions taken at the
October 20, 1980 meeting for the information of the Commission.
DEVELOPMENT SERVICES ITEMS:
June Catalano informed the Commission of City Council review of the
fiscal impact model on October 27, 1980. The Planning Commission
is invited to attend this meeting.
COMMISSION ITEMS:
Commissioner Bannister asked that a'request be sent to the City
Council for guidance and direction in regard to inclusionary zon-
ing, density bonuses, and low- and moderate -income provisions.
-16- 10-21-80 - P.C.