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HomeMy WebLinkAbout1988-02-02APPROVED 3/15/88 MINUTES HUNTINGTON BEACH PLANNING COMMISSION FEBRUARY 2, 1988 - 7:00 PM Council Chambers - Civic Center 2000 Main Street Huntington Beach, California PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE P P P P P ROLL CALL: Pierce, Livengood, Silva, Leipzig, Schumacher P P Higgins, Bourguignon A. CONSENT CALENDAR: MINUTES OF JANUARY 5, 1988 PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING A MOTION WAS MADE BY LIVENGOOD, SECOND BY PIERCE, TO APPROVE JANUARY 5, 1988 PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES, AS SUBMITTED, BY THE FOLLOWING VOTE: AYES: Pierce, Livengood, Silva, Leipzig, Schumacher NOES: None ABSENT: None ABSTAIN: Higgins MOTION PASSED B. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS None C. PUBLIC HEARING ITEMS C-1 CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT NO. 87-39/COASTAL DEVELOPMENT PERMIT NO. 87-29/NEGATIVE DECLARATION NO. 87-38 (CONTINUED FROM DECEMBER 15, 1987 PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING) APPLICANT: City of Huntington Beach Redevelopment Agency Conditional Use Permit No. 87-39, Coastal Development Permit No. 87-29 and Negative Declaration No. 87-38 is a request to permit development of a subterranean parking structure with restroom facilities, community facility, concession uses, restaurant pad, passive recreation and expansion of pier for commercial on the ocean side of Pacific Coast Highway, between the Municipal Pier and Seventh Street. On December 15, 1987, staff requested continuance of the items to February 2, 1988, so that parking structure plans could be completed which would comply with the requirements of the State Beach General Plan. Staff is still working on preparation of the plans. It is anticipated that all design work will be completed by March 1988. STAFF RECOMMENDATION: Continue Conditional Use Permit No. 87-39, Coastal Development Permit No. 87-29 and Negative Declaration No. 87-38 to March 15, 1988. Staff will advertise these items ten (10) days prior to the public hearing. A MOTION WAS MADE BY SILVA, SECOND BY PIERCE, TO CONTINUE CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT NO. 87-39, COASTAL DEVELOPMENT PRMIT NO. 87-29 AND NEGATIVE DECLARATION NO. 87-38 TO THE MARCH 15, 1988 PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING, BY THE FOLLOWING VOTE: AYES: Pierce, Livengood, Silva, Leipzig, Schumacher, Higgins, Bourguignon NOES: None ABSENT: None ABSTAIN: None MOTION PASSED C-2 CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT NO. 87-37/CONDITIONAL EXCEPTION (VARIANCE) NO. 87-77/NEGATIVE DECLARATION NO. 87-43 (CONTINUED FROM 1/20/88 PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING) APPLICANT: EVANGELICAL FREE CHURCH Conditional Use Permit No. 87-37 is a request to remodel and expand an existing church facility (Evangelical Free Church located at 1912 Florida Street) and to develop a 117 space off -site auxiliary parking lot to accommodate the additional parking demand. PC Minutes - 2/2/88 -2- (0042d) Conditional Exception (Variance) No. 87-77 the church addition to have a 10 foot front 15 feet, which would be consistent with the Conditional Exception (Variance) No. 87-77 to construct a bus garage in the southeast parking lot with no setback along the rear side yards. is a request to permit yard setback in lieu of existing church. also includes a request corner of the auxiliary and southernmost interior Conditional Use Permit No. 87-37, Conditional Exception (Variance) No. 87-77 and Negative Declaration No. 87-43 was originally continued from the October 6, 1987 Planning Commission meeting to the October 20, 1987 meeting due to insufficient public notification. The applicant subsequently requested continuance of the public hearing to November 17, 1987, to allow their architect to be present at that meeting. On November 17, 1987, staff forwarded a staff report to the Commission analyzing the proposed project and recommending denial due to the potential impacts from the project on the surrounding residential area. The applicant again requested continuance of the item to January 20, 1988, to attempt to address staff's concerns. STAFF RECOMMENDATION: Deny applicant's request for expansion of church sanctuary from 500 seats to 762 seats, and instead approve applicant's request as amended by staff limiting seating capacity to 669 seats or that amount for which parking can be accommodated on site by taking the following action: (a) Approve Negative Declaration No. 87-43 and (b) Approve Conditional Exception (Variance) No. 87-77 and Conditional Use Permit No. 87-37, as amended by staff, with findings and conditions of approval as outlined in the January 20, 1988 report. THE PUBLIC HEARING WAS OPENED Denny Foster, applicant, 10418 Rainbow Circle, spoke in support of the project and urged the Commission to grant approval of their original request for expansion to 762 seats. He stated that without their proposed request that the remodeling would either have to be postponed or cancelled. He further stated that they do not want to impact the neighborhood and that the remodeling would mitigate concerns expressed by surrounding property owners. He said that the congregation had been instructed to enter and exit on and off Beach Boulevard so that the neighborhood would not be impacted and that to provide enough parking both sites needed to be tied together. He said that 60 to 75 percent of the members use Beach Boulevard. David Miller, architect for the project, spoke in support of the request. He stated that the height of the building had been reduced and the balcony removed. Deidre Deaton, Junior High member of the the request and stated that the expansion neighborhood because it would promote gro church, spoke in support of was very important to the wth of membership. PC Minutes - 2/2/88 -3- (0042d) John Rohrig, 17352 Gibson Circle, stated that he feels the church expansion is good planning. There were no other persons present to speak for or against the project and the public hearing was closed. The Commission was concerned with the possibility of the auxiliary lot being sold in the future. And since the lot would contain the parking spaces needed for the expansion there would be no assurance that both properties would remain under common ownership. The applicant was asked if property could be provided that would satisfy the parking requirements should this occur. The applicant stated that equivalent property could be provided. It was felt that an exception should be made and that the original request by the applicant should be granted. It was suggested that the congretation be encouraged to use the north entrance off of Beach Boulevard to enter and exit the church and that perhaps signage directing the congregation could be implemented. A MOTION WAS MADE BY SCHUMACHER, SECOND BY LIVENGOOD, TO APPROVE NEGATIVE DECLARATION NO. 87-43, CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT NO. 87-37, AND CONDITIONAL EXCEPTION (VARIANCE) NO. 87-77, AS REQUESTED BY THE APPLICANT, WITH FINDINGS AND REVISED CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL, BY THE FOLLOWING VOTE: AYES: Pierce, Livengood, Silva, Leipzig, Schumacher, Higgins, Bourguignon NOES: None ABSENT: None ABSTAIN: None FINDINGS FOR APPROVAL - CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT NO. 87-37: 1. The maintenance and operation of the church expansion will not be detrimental to the general welfare of persons residing or working in the vicinity or property and improvements in the vicinity of the church use. 2. The granting of Conditional Use Permit No. 87-37 to expand the existing church facility from 500 seats to 762 seats, will not adversely affect the General Plan of the City of Huntington Beach. 3. The church expansion proposal is consistent with the goals and objectives of the City's General Plan and Land Use Map. 4. It is understood that the auxiliary parking lot will provide additional off-street parking primarily for the church and may be used by the adjacent Wycliffe office and residential complex. Further, the auxiliary lot will serve to provide 31 required parking spaces for the Evangelical Free Church. PC Minutes - 2/2/88 -4- (0042d) f] FINDINGS FOR APPROVAL - CONDITIONAL EXCEPTION (VARIANCE) NO 87-77: 1. Because of special circumstances applicable to the subject property, including location and surroundings, the strict application of the Zoning Ordinance is found to deprive the subject property of privileges enjoyed by other properties in the vicinity and under identical zone classifications. 2. The granting of Conditional Exception (Variance) No. 87-77 for the front yard setback for the church facility and for the side and rear yard setbacks for the proposed bus garage is necessary in order to preserve the enjoyment of one or more substantial property rights. 3. The granting of Conditional Exception (Variance) No. 87-77 will not be materially detrimental to the public welfare, or injurious to property in the surrounding residential area. 4. The granting of Conditional Exception (Variance) No. 87-77 will not adversely affect the General Plan of the City of Huntington Beach. CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL: Planning Department Requirements 1. The site plans shall be amended in the following manner: a. The site plan, floor plans and elevations for the church facility shall be amended to show no walkway from the auxiliary lot to Wycliffe and to show the maximum height of the church as 30 feet. b. The site plan for the auxiliary parking lot dated August 8, 1987, shall be amended to reflect a 15 foot landscape planter along Florida Avenue. c. The elevations dated October 8, 1987, for the bus garage located in the auxiliary lot shall be the approved layout. The amended site plans shall be re -submitted to the Planning Director for review and approval. 2. Prior to issuance of building permits, the applicant shall submit the following: a. Landscape and irrigation plan to the Department of Community Development and Public Works for review and approval. Landscaping shall comply with Article 960 and Title 15 of the Huntington Beach Ordinance Code. PC Minutes - 2/2/88 -5- (0042d) 3. Prior to the issuance of a grading permit, a detailed soils analysis shall be prepared by a registered Soils Engineer for the auxilliary lot. This analysis shall include on -site soil sampling and laboratory testing of materials to provide detailed recommendations regarding grading, chemical and fill properties, foundations, retaining walls, streets, and utilities. 4. Prior to issuance of the Certificate of Occupancy, the applicant shall restripe the on -site parking lot for the church facility so that it conforms to provisions of Article 960 of the Huntington Beach Ordinance Code. 5. Aside from the 31 spaces noted, the auxiliary parking lot shall not be permitted to be utilized for additional required on -site parking for either the Evangelical Free Church or Wycliffe. 6. The auxilliary parking lot shall only be utilized by the church and Wycliffe office and residential complex. Parking for other uses and/or storage is prohibited. 7. The main entrance to the church sanctuary shall be accessed on the east side of the building from the parking lot. Entrances and exits located along Florida Avenue shall be for emergency purposes only. 8. Church -related buses shall not park in the street; they shall be parked either on -site or in the auxiliary lot. 9. The church facility and use shall comply with Article 8.40 of the City's Municipal Code - Noise Ordinance. 10. Special architectural treatment shall be provided on the bus garage's building walls so as to ensure compatibility with adjacent residential uses. Such treatment is subject to approval by the Community Development Director. 11. Proposed structures shall be architecturally compatible with existing structures. 12. Natural gas shall be stubbed in at the locations of cooking facilities, water heaters, and central heating units. 13. Low -volume heads shall be used on all spigots and water faucets. 14. If lighting is included in the parking lot, high-pressure sodium vapor lamps shall be used for energy savings. All outside lighting shall be directed to prevent "spillage" onto adjacent properties. 15. There shall be no outside storage of vehicles, vehicle parts, equipment or trailers. PC Minutes - 2/2/88 -6- (0042d) 16. All building spoils, such as unusable lumber, wire, pipe, and other surplus or unusable material, shall be disposed of at an appropriate off -site facility. 17. The applicant shall meet all applicable local, State, and Federal Fire Codes, Ordinances, and standards. 18. The Planning Commission reserves the right to revoke Conditional Use Permit No. 87-37, if any violation of these conditions or the Huntington Beach Ordinance Code occurs. Fire Department Requirements 19. On -site fire hydrants shall be provided in number and at locations specified by the Fire Department. 20. An automatic fire sprinkler system shall be approved and installed pursuant to Fire Department regulations. 21. Service roads and fire lanes, as determined by the Fire Department, shall be posted and marked. 22. Fire access lanes shall be maintained. If fire lane violations occur and the services of the Fire Department are required, the applicant will be liable for expenses incurred. 23. The existing oil facilities on the auzilliary lot shall be abandoned in accordance with City of Huntington Beach Fire Department standards and State Department of Natural Resources, Division of Oil and Gas current standards. Public Works Requirements 24. Prior to issuance of building permits, the subject property shall enter into a reciprocal parking agreement between the auzilliary parking lot and Wycliffe Bible Translator's Inc. A copy of the legal instrument shall be approved by the City Attorney as to form and content and, when approved, shall be recorded in the Office of the County Recorder. A copy shall be filed with the Department of Community Development prior to occupancy. (The reciprocal parking agreement attached to this staff report may be adequate but will require City Attorney approval.) 25. Installation -of required landscaping and irrigation systems shall be completed prior to final inspection,. 26. All applicable Public Works fees shall be paid prior to issuance of building permits. PC Minutes - 2/2/88 -7- (0042d) 27. Prior to issuance of building permits, a restrictive covenant approved by the Community Development Department and the City Attorney as to form and recorded with the County Assessor's Office shall be submitted to assure that either: both properties will remain under common ownership since the auxiliary lot contains parking spaces necessary for the church expansion; or an equivalent need for meeting the parking requirement has been identified. C-3 CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT NO, 87-52 WITH SPECIAL PERMITS IN CONJUNCTION WITH TENTATIVE TRACT 13215 AND COASTAL DEVELOPMENT PERMIT NO, 87-34 APPLICANT: SEAVIEW HOMES/COAST Conditional Use Permit No. 87-52 with Special Permits, Tentative Tract 13215 and Coastal Development Permit No. 87-35 is a request to develop a three story, nine unit condominium project with subterranean parking. The 13,515 square foot site is located in the Downtown Specific Plan area at the northwest corner of Tenth Street and Pacific Coast Highway, and is vacant except for inoperative oil facilities. There are three special permit requests relating to vehicular access width, residential setback from the parking area, and upper story setback. ENVIRONMENTAL STATUS: Environmental Assessment No. 87-57 was submitted in conjunction with this project. It was determined, after staff review, that the proposed residential project is in conformance with the Downtown Specific Plan Environmental Impact Report (EIR 82-2) pursuant to Section 15182 of the California Environmental Quality Act. COASTAL STATUS: The proposed residential project is subject to approval of a coastal development permit because it is located within the coastal zone under appeal jurisdiction to the California Coastal Commission. STAFF RECOMMENDATION: Approve Conditional Use Permit No. 87-52 with Special Permits, Tentative Tract 13215 and Coastal Development Permit No. 87-35 with findings and conditions of approval. THE PUBLIC HEARING WAS OPENED Neil Noble, architect for the project, spoke in support of the project. He requested that the condition be waived regarding affordable housing. He further stated that the windows on the west side would be adjusted to protect the privacy of the neighboring I properties. PC Minutes - 2/2/88 -8- (0042d) 1 Tim Corilla (sic), 1010 Pacific Coast Highway, stated that he was concerned with the height of the proposed project and urged the Commission to impose conditions that would protect his privacy. There were no other persons present to speak for or against the project and the public hearing was closed. The Commission expressed concern regarding reference to a cul-de-sac at Tenth Street when a cul-de-sac at that location had not as yet been approved by the City Council. They requested that a condition be added to modify the site plan by removing the cul-de-sac in the event that the cul-de-sac is not approved. They also suggested that a condition regarding windows on the westerly elevation be added and that a condition specifying that loft areas shall be true lofts and open to the room below with no full-sized closets. A MOTION WAS MADE BY PIERCE, SECOND BY LIVENGOOD, TO APPROVE CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT NO. 87-52 WITH SPECIAL PERMITS, TENTATIVE TRACT 13215 AND COASTAL DEVELOPMENT PERMIT NO. 87-35, WITH REVISED FINDINGS AND CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL, BY THE FOLLOWING VOTE: AYES: Pierce, Livengood, Bourguignon NOES: None ABSENT: None ABSTAIN: None MOTION PASSED Silva, Leipzig, Schumacher, Higgins, FINDINGS FOR APPROVAL - CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT NO. 87-52: 1. The proposed nine unit condominium project will not be detrimental to: a. The general welfare of persons residing or working in the vicinity; b. Property and improvements in the vicinity of such use or building. 2. The proposed nine unit condominium project is consistent with the goals and objectives of the City's General Plan and Land Use Map. 3. The proposed project is compatible with existing or proposed uses in the vicinity. 4. The proposed condominium project is in conformance with the adopted Design Guidelines for the Downtown Specific Plan. 5. Architectural features and general appearance of the proposed nine unit condominium project will enhance the orderly and harmonious development of the Downtown Specific Plan area. PC Minutes - 2/2/88 -9- (0042d) 6. The location, site layout, and design of the proposed nine -unit condominium project properly adapts the proposed structures to streets, driveways, and other adjacent structures and uses in a harmonious manner. FINDINGS FOR APPROVAL-- SPECIAL PERMITS: 1. The following special permits for deviations to the requirements of the -Downtown Specific Plan promote a better living environment and provide maximum use of the land in terms of site layout and design: a. A 21 foot-2 inch wide vehicular access ramp to subterranean parking in lieu of a 28 foot wide accessway. b. A 3 foot building setback from a parking area in lieu of a 10 foot setback. c. Waiver of the 10 foot average additional setback for third story. 2. The approval of the special permits will not be detrimental to the general health, welfare, safety and convenience of the neighborhood in general, nor detrimental or injurious to the value of property or improvements in the neighborhood. 3. The special permit requests are consistent with the objectives of the Downtown Specific Plan in achieving,a development adapted to the parcel,and compatible with the surrounding environment. 4. The special permits are consistent with the policies of the Coastal Element of the City's General Plan and the California Coastal Act. FINDINGS FOR APPROVAL - TENTATIVE TRACT 13215: 1. The size, depth, frontage, street width and other design features of the proposed one lot subdivision for condominium purposes are in compliance with standard plans and specifications on file with the City as well as in compliance with the State Map Act and supplemental City Subdivision Ordinance. 2. The property was previously studied for this intensity of land use at the time the land use designation and Downtown Specific Plan, District 2 zoning designation were placed on the subject property. 3. The General Plan has set forth provisions for this type of land use as well as setting forth objectives for the implementation of this type of housing. PC Minutes - 2/2/88 -1.0- (0042d) 4. The site is relatively flat and physically suitable for the proposed density and type of development. 5. The tentative tract is consistent with the goals and policies of the Huntington Beach General Plan. FINDINGS FOR APPROVAL - COASTAL DEVELOPMENT NO. 87-35: 1. The proposed nine unit condominium project conforms with the plans, policies, requirements and standards of the Coastal Element of the General Plan. 2. Coastal Development Permit No. 87-35 is consistent with the CZ suffix zoning requirements and Downtown Specific Plan, as well as other provisions of the Huntington Beach Ordinance Code applicable to the property. 3. At the time of occupancy, the proposed nine unit condominium project can be provided with infrastructure in a manner that is consistent with the Coastal Element of the General Plan. 4. The proposed nine unit condominium project conforms with the public access and public recreation policies of Chapter 3 of the California Coastal Act. 5. The Mello Bill Affordable Housing requirements, Government Code Section 65590(d), is satisfied in the following manner: a. The City has provided density bonuses within three miles of the coastal zone which have provided affordable housing. b. Due to the location and economics involved it would not be feasible to develop affordable housing on this site. The value of the land coupled with the need to provide subterranean parking on site would prohibit the ability to provide for affordable housing. CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL - CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT NO. 87-52: 1. The site plan and floor plans received and dated January 13, 1988, and elevations dated January 28, 1988, shall be the conceptually approved layout subject to the following: a. Subterranean parking access stairway and building shall have an average front setback of 20 feet.with minimum 15 foot setback. b. Reverse second and third floor balconies along Pacific Coast Highway so the larger balcony is on the second floor and smaller are on the third floor. C. The identified loft areas shall be true lofts and open to the room below with no full-sized closets. PC Minutes - 2/2/88 -11- (0042d) d. Windows on the westerly elevation shall be modified to provide for the maximum amount of privacy presented to the adjacent property. e. The site plan shall be modified to remove the cul-de-sac proposal in the event that the cul-de-sac at loth. Street is not approved by the City Council. 2. Prior to issuance of building permits, the following shall be completed. a. The applicant shall submit a landscape and irrigation plan to the Department of Community Development, Public Works and Design Review Board for review and approval. Plant material as specified in the Downtown Design Guidelines shall be used. Landscape plan shall include on -site plans as well as proposed landscaping in the public right-of-way. b. Final Tract Map 13215 shall be accepted by City Council and recorded with the County Recorder's Office. c. A lighting plan for vehicular accessways and major walkways shall be submitted to and approved by the Planning Director. d. All applicable Public Works fees shall be paid prior to issuance of building permits e. Paint colors, roofing material, final subterranean stairway location and site plan shall be reviewed and approved by the Design Review Board. f. Prior to issuance of building permits, an interim parking and/or building materials storage plan shall be submitted to assure adequate parking available for employees, customers, contractors, etc. during the project's construction phase. 3. Subject to review and approval by the Fire Department, an automatic fire sprinkler system and fire alarm system may be required. 4. A wet combination standpipe system shall be provided at all levels of the project. 5. Existing fire hydrant at Tenth Street and the alley on the project site shall be upgraded to meet current Public Works standards, if deemed necessary by the Fire Department. 6. Elevator shall meet the following minimum dimensions: 6 feet-8 inches wide, 4 feet-3 inches deep, 42 inch opening. 7. All security gates shall be provided with an emergency access system approved by the Fire Department. PC Minutes - 2/2/88 -12- (0042d) 8. An alarm system shall be designed to detect methane gas within the parking garage, if the garage is over the well head. 9. Oil well and facilities shall be abandoned pursuant to Division of Oil and Gas and Huntington Beach Fire Department standards. 10. If approved by the City Council, the cul-de-sac including bus turnout at Tenth Street and Pacific Coast Highway shall have a minimum 62 foot diameter, curb face to curb face. No obstructions are permitted within the diameter of the street. The developer shall post a bond in an amount determined by the Department of Public Works sufficient to complete these improvements. 11. Prior to commencing above -grade combustible construction, the applicant shall prepare a pre -construction fire protection plan for review and approval of the Fire Marshal. The fire protection plan shall include the following: a. Required fire hydrants shall be installed and operating prior to commencing combustible construction. b. Proper security measures for the site to prevent vandalism and fire ignition. c. Provisions for adequate emergency access around and onto the site. d. The phased installation and operation of the fire sprinkler system during construction. 12. Building address numbers are to be installed pursuant to Fire Department standards. 13. Provide a centralized mail delivery facility which shall be architecturally compatible with the main structure. 14. A minimum of 100 cubic feet of storage area shall be provided per unit in over -hood storage lockers within the parking structure. 15. All building spoils, such as unusable lumber, wire, pipe, and other surplus or unusable material, shall be disposed of at an off -site facility equipped to handle them. 16. Natural gas shall be stubbed in at the locations of cooking facilities, water heaters, and central heating units. 17. Low -volume heads shall be used on all spigots and water faucets. 18. The development shall comply with all applicable provisions of the Ordinance Code, Building Division, and Fire Department. PC Minutes - 2/2/88 -13- (0042d) 19. The applicant shall meet all applicable local, State, and Federal Fire Codes, Ordinances, and standards. CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL - TENTATIVE TRACT 13215: 1. The Tentative Tract Map 13215 dated January 27, 1988, shall be revised as follows: a. Provide notation: Landscaping in the right-of-way (including the area around the cul-de-sac) shall be installed and maintained by the property owner. 2. Curb and gutter shall be reconstructed at 29-1/2 feet from Tenth Street centerline. 3. All trees shall be located behind the sidewalk. Landscaping shall meet Downtown Design Guidelines and Department of Public Works standards. 4. Construct a 12 inch water main in Tenth Street from Pacific Coast Highway to the alley. Also construct an 8 inch water main in the alley from Tenth Street to the perpendicular alley intersection. The existing water main shall be removed from the alley. 5. The project shall sewer to the new sewer main in the north/south alley between Tenth and Eleventh Streets. All existing active sewer laterals shall be tied into this new sewer main. The 16 inch County sewer main in the alley shall be abandoned in -place. 6. Hydrology/hydraulic studies shall be submitted to and approved by the Department of Public Works. 7. A soils report and grading plan shall be submitted to and approved by the Department of Public Works. 8. Street lights shall be constructed per requirements of the City Electrician. 9. All street and alley improvements shall be constructed per City and Cal Trans requirements. 10. Security gate configuration shall be approved by the Public Works Department. 11. CC&Rs shall be submitted to and approved by the City Attorney and the Department of Community Development prior to recordation of the Final Map, in accordance with the Downtown Specific Plan. PC Minutes - 2/2/88 -14- (0042d) C-4 CODE AMENDMENT NO, 87-15 APPLICANT: WILSON FORD Code Amendment No. 87-15 is a request by the applicant to allow electronic reader boards by excluding such signs from the list of prohibited signs in the Huntington Beach Ordinance Code, Section 9610.4(a)&(h). This request is in conjunction with two requests for special sign permits (Special Sign Permit No. 87-18 and 87-19) for auto dealer signs along Beach Boulevard at a height of 50 feet with 400 square foot electronic reader boards (8 feet by 25 feet). ENVIRONMENTAL STATUS: The proposed project is exempt from the provisions of the California Environmental Quality Act. STAFF RECOMMENDATION: Deny Code Amendment No. 87-15 with findings. THE PUBLIC HEARING WAS OPENED Speakers signed up to speak indicated that comments were being addressed to Code Amendment No. 87-15, Special Sign Permit No. 18 and Special Sign Permit No. 19. Richard Wilson, owner of Wilson Ford, spoke in support of the code amendment. He stated that he has worked hard to make his dealership attractive and that because he is forced to compete with auto -malls, readerboards are a specific need in order to stay competitive. Gary Gray, representing Huntington Beach AMC, spoke in support of the code amendment. He feels that readerboards are good advertising and accomplish maintenance of attractive dealerships. Rick Evans, Huntington Beach AMC, spoke in support of the code amendment. Rod Wilson, applicant - Electra Media, spoke in support of the code amendment and made himself available to answer any questions. William Walmouth (sic), no address, spoke in opposition to the code amendment. He stated that he feels the dealers have enough exposure presently with television advertising, radio, and newspapers, and that they do not need additional signage. He said that the dealership signs are visible from his house now and that with readerboards it would be like a giant, moving, movie screen in front of his house. PC Minutes - 2/2/88 -15- (0042d) Jeff Lebow, 18271 Pammy Lane, spoke in opposition to readerboard signs. He stated that he is already bothered by the dealership signs visible from his residence and that any additional signage would disturb his quality of life. Eric Weber, 18292 Pammy Lane, presented a petition that he circulated in his neighborhood in opposition to the readerboard signs. He stated that there are problems with the dealerships presently with insufficient parking, noise, light spillage, etc. and he urged the Commisson to protect his quality of life. Roy Moosa, 18301 Pammy Lane, spoke in opposition to readerboard signs. There were no other persons present to speak for or against the code amendment and the public hearing was closed. A lengthy discussion followed regarding changing the sign code. The Commission felt that a lot of community involvement had been spent determining the present sign code and since the code amendment would involve the entire City not just the car dealerships that the present sign code should not be changed. It was felt, however, that other issues regarding readerboards should be addressed and studied. It was suggested that a sub -committee (consisting of Commissioners, a representative of the public, and a consultant from a sign company) be established to address possible changes to the sign code that could allow reader boards subject to certain design standards. Rod Wilson was asked if he would be willing to serve on a sub -committee as a consultant. He stated that he would consider it. Eric Weber, resident in neighborhood behind the Wilson Ford property, volunteered to serve on such a sub -committee. A MOTION WAS MADE BY PIERCE, SECOND BY BOURGUIGNON, TO ESTABLISH A SUB -COMMITTEE (LEIPZIG, PIERCE, BOURGUIGNON) TO ADDRESS ISSUES AND POSSIBLE CHANGES TO THE SIGN CODE TO ALLOW READER BOARDS, BY THE FOLLOWING VOTE: AYES: Pierce, Livengood, Silva, Leipzig, Schumacher, Higgins, Bourguignon NOES: None ABSENT: None ABSTAIN: None MOTION PASSED A MOTION WAS MADE BY SCHUMACHER, SECOND BY HIGGINS, TO DENY CODE AMENDMENT NO. 87-15, WITH FINDINGS, BY THE FOLLOWING VOTE: AYES: Pierce, Livengood, Silva, Leipzig, Schumacher, Higgins NOES: Bourguignon ABSENT: None ABSTAIN: None MOTION PASSED PC,,Minutes - 2/2/88 -16- (0042d) FINDINGS FOR DENIAL: 1. Since the Huntington Beach Ordinance Code, Section 961 (Sign Code) allows adequate opportunities for advertising through various types of signage, Code Amendment No. 87-15 to allow electronic reader board signs is not necessary for the preservation and enjoyment of substantial property rights. 2. Electronic reader board signs, if permitted by Code Amendment No. 87-15, will be incompatible with surrounding existing and proposed developments, especially residential land uses. 3. Electronic reader board signs, if permitted by Code Amendment No. 87-15, will have the potential of creating a congestion and circulation hazard to passing motorists. C-5 SPECIAL SIGN PERMIT NO. 87-18 APPLICANT: ROD WILSON ELECTRA-MEDIA Special Sign Permit No. 87-18 is a request for an auto dealer sign to be located at Wilson Ford, 18255 Beach Boulevard, which exceeds the Sign Code, Section 961 of the Huntington Beach Ordinance Code, in terms of height, sign area and number of signs allowed. The sign requested is an electronic reader board at a height of 50 feet in lieu of 15 feet with an area of approximately 400 square feet in lieu of 70 square feet. This sign will exceed the number of freestanding signs allowed for the use. ENVIRONMENTAL STAT The proposed project is exempt Class 11 Section 15311 from the provisions of the California Environmental Quality Act. STAFF RECOMMENDATION: Deny Special Sign Permit No. 87-18 with findings. THE PUBLIC HEARING WAS OPENED Public comments were heard during Item C-4. Speakers signed up to speak indicated that comments were being addressed to Code Amendment No. 87-15, Special Sign Permit No. 18 and Special Sign Permit No. 19. There were no other persons present to speak for or against the special sign permit and the public hearing was closed. Since the Huntington Beach Sign Code prohibits readerboard signs and the Planning Commission lacks jurisdiction to approve, it was suggested that the findings for denial so indicate. PC Minutes - 2/2/88, -17--(0042d) A MOTION WAS MADE BY SCHUMACHER, SECOND BY HIGGINS, TO DENY SPECIAL SIGN PERMIT NO. 87-18, WITH REVISED FINDINGS, BY THE FOLLOWING VOTE: AYES: Pierce, Livengood, Bourguignon NOES: None ABSENT: None ABSTAIN: None MOTION PASSED FINDINGS FOR DENIAL: Silva, Leipzig, Schumacher, Higgins, 1. The Huntington Beach Sign Code prohibits "Readerboard Signs" and the Planning Commission lacks the jurisdiction to approve such a request. 2. Strict compliance with Section 961 of the Huntington Beach Ordinance Code (Sign Code) will not result in a substantial hardship to the applicant, because adequate signage with good visibility is existing. 3. The proposed 50 foot high, 300 square foot electronic reader board will predominate the surrounding area adversely affecting other signs in the area. 4. The proposed 50 foot high, 300 square foot electronic reader board sign will be detrimental to properties located in the vicinity especially adjacent residential uses. 5. Granting of Special Sign Permit No. 87-18 for a 50 foot high, 300 square foot sign would constitute a special privilege inconsistent with limitations upon properties in the vicinity. 6. Exceptional circumstances do not apply that deprive the subject property of privileges enjoyed by other properties in the same zone classifications. C-6 SPECIAL SIGN PERMIT NO, 87-19 APPLICANT: ROD WILSON ELECTRA-MEDIA Special Sign Permit No. 87-19 is a request for an auto dealer sign to be located at Huntington AMC, 16751 Beach Boulevard, which exceeds the Sign Code, Section 961 of the Huntington Beach Ordinance Code, in terms of height, sign area and number of signs allowed. The sign requested is an electronic reader board at a height of 50 feet in lieu of 15 feet with an area of approximately 400 square feet in lieu of 70 square feet. This sign will exceed the number of freestanding signs allowed for the use. 1 PC Minutes - 2/2/88 -18- (0042d) ENVIRONMENTAL STATUS: The proposed project is exempt Class 11 Section 15311 from the provisions of the California Environmental Quality Act. STAFF RECOMMENDATION: Deny Special Sign Permit No. 87-19 with findings. THE PUBLIC HEARING WAS OPENED Public comments were heard during Item C-4. Speakers signed up to speak indicated that comments were being addressed to Code Amendment No. 87-15, Special Sign Permit No. 18 and Special Sign Permit No. 19. There were no other persons present to speak for or against the special sign permit and the public hearing was closed. Since the Huntington Beach Sign Code prohibits readerboard signs and the Planning Commission lacks jurisdiction to approve, it was suggested that the findings for denial so indicate. A MOTION WAS MADE BY BOURGUIGNON, SECOND BY HIGGINS, TO DENY SPECIAL SIGN PERMIT NO. 87-18, WITH REVISED FINDINGS, BY THE FOLLOWING VOTE: AYES: Pierce, Livengood, Silva, Leipzig, Schumacher, Higgins, Bourguignon NOES: None ABSENT: None ABSTAIN: None MOTION PASSED FINDINGS FOR DENIAL: 1. The Huntington Beach Sign Code prohibits "Readerboard Signs" and the Planning Commission lacks the jurisdiction to approve such a request. 2. Strict compliance with Section 961 of the Huntington Beach Ordinance Code (Sign Code) will not result in a substantial hardship to the applicant, because adequate signage with good visibility is existing. 3. The proposed 50 foot high, 300 square foot electronic reader board will predominate the surrounding area adversely affecting other signs in the area. 4. The proposed 50 foot high, 300 square foot electronic reader board sign will be detrimental to properties located in the vicinity especially adjacent residential uses. PC Minutes - 2/2/88 -19- (6042d) 5. Granting of Special Sign Permit No. 87-19 for a 50 foot high, 300 square foot sign would constitute a special privilege inconsistent with limitations upon properties in the vicinity. 6. Exceptional circumstances do not apply that deprive the subject property of privileges enjoyed by other properties in the same zone classifications. C-7 CODE AMENDMENT NO. 87-11 - PARKING STRUCTURES (CONTINUED FROM JANUARY 20, 1988 PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING) APPLICANT: CITY OF HUNTINGTON BEACH On January 20, 1988, the Planning Commission made a motion to continue Code Amendment No. 87-22 for parking structure design standards after providing specific direction to staff in the form of three straw votes. Staff has followed the direction of the Planning Commission and revised the draft ordinance in the following manner: First, the section specifying vehicle clearance heights (already covered in Title 24 of the California Administrative Code) has been deleted. Second, the reduced aisle width (24 feet as opposed to 26 feet) for residential projects of less than twenty units has been retained. Third, the special permit section has been revised to specify some of the deviations that can be allowed by Planning Commission action, including the provision of angled parking. Finally, language has been added in subsection (d) with respect to reviewing the number of ramps between floors and the number of ingress and egress points required as related to total number of parking spaces within the structure. A cut-off of three hundred (300) spaces has been set as the point at which a traffic study must be submitted to document needed secondary circulation ramps, additional exits, or other parking management techniques. STAFF RECOMMENDATION: Approve Code Amendment No. 87-11 with findings and recommend adoption by the City Council. THE PUBLIC HEARING WAS OPENED There was no one present to speak for or against the code amendment and the public hearing was closed. Additional revisions to the ordinance were suggested by the Commission. They agreed that aisle width for all uses should be 26 feet and straight ramp widths should be 26 feet for both commercial/industrial and residential with 20 du or more and 21 feet for reisdential with less than 20 du. PC Minutes - 2/2/88 -20- (0042d) J A MOTION WAS MADE BY LIVENGOOD, SECOND BY LEIPZIG, TO APPROVE CODE AMENDMENT NO. 87-11 WITH FINDINGS, WITH REVISIONS TO THE ORDINANCE, AND RECOMMEND ADOPTION BY THE CITY COUNCIL, BY THE FOLLOWING VOTE: AYES: Pierce, Livengood, Leipzig, Higgins, Bourguignon NOES: None ABSENT: Silva, Schumacher (Out of Room) ABSTAIN: None MOTION PASSED FINDINGS FOR APPROVAL: 1. Revisions to Article 960 will create a more systematic and consistent method for reviewing parking structures. 2. Revisions to Article 960 will create parking structures which are more aesthetically pleasing and architecturally compatible with on -site development and surrounding properties. 3. Revisions to Article 960 are in conformance with the General Plan; in particular, the Land Use and Circulation Elements. D. ITEMS NOT PUBLIC HEARING None E. DISCUSSION ITEMS COMMITTEES AND SUB -COMMITTEES - Rescheduled for the February 17, 1988 Planning Commission meeting. F. PLANNING COMMISSION INQUIRIES 1. The Commission requested written response on the following items from Public Works Department: a. City dump site at Adams and Brookhurst b. Signals at Warner and Algonquin and Warner and Bolsa Chica 2. Follow-up was requested on the noise and light spillage and non -conforming signs present at Wilson Ford on Beach Boulevard reported by surrounding residents during the public hearing. PC Minutes - 2/2/88 -21- (0042d) 3. The following requests were made by the Commission: a. Design Review Board color pallette to be presented at the next meeting of the 9-unit condominium project approved this evening (Conditional Use Permit No. 87-52). b. Parking requirements versus occupancy rate of high rise buildings. c. List of numbered streets designated as cul-de-sacs d. Remaining buildable land from Goldenwest to Sixth Street and Pacific Coast Highway to Walnut. e. Copy of Bolsa Chica Traffic Study f. Copy of CalTrans Study of Pacific Coast Highway G. PLANNING COMMISSION ITEMS None H. COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ITEMS I. None A MOTION WAS MADE AT 10:50 PM BY LEIPZIG, SECOND BY BOURGUIGNON, TO ADJOURN TO A 6:00 PM STUDY SESSION (TOWN SQUARE), WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 1988, THEN TO THE NEXT REGULARLY SCHEDULED MEETING, AT 7:00 PM, WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 1988. FUTURE SCHEDULING WILL INCLUDE A 6:00 PM SPECIAL STUDY SESSION MEETING (WATERFRONT) ON TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 1988; THEN THE REGULARLY SCHEDULED MEETING, AT 7:00 PM, TUESDAY, MARCH 1, 1988; THEN A SPECIAL MEETING ON MARCH 8, 1988, FOR THE FIRST PORTION OF WATERFRONT PROJECT. VOTE: AYES: Pierce, Livengood, Silva, Leipzig, Schumacher, Higgins, Bourguignon NOES: None MOTION PASSED MINUTES APPROVED: Mike Adams, Secretary Victor Leipzig, C, PC Minutes - 2/2/88 =22- (0042d)