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HomeMy WebLinkAbout1987/05/13 - MINUTES PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES Council Chamber, City Hall May 13, 1987 1:30 p.m. ROLL CALL F-Y 1986 - 1987 Present Present Excused Absences Planning Commission This Meeting to Date to date Larry Lapham, Chairman X 19 0 Hugh Curtis X 17 2 Martha Edgmon X 8 1 Brent Hough X 13 0 Earl Neel X 16 3 Gary Olsen X 15 4 Barbara Whitney X 14 3 Staff Present Marvin D. 00s, Planning Director Siegfried Siefkes, Assistant City Attorney Douglas Evans, Planner Robert Green, Planner Margo Williams, Planner Mary E. Lawler, Recording Secretary Architectural Advisory Committee - May 11, 1987 Chris Mills, Chairman Absent: Mike Buccino William Johnson �.. Gary Olsen Tom Doczi Brent Hough Will Kleindienst Barbara Whitney Chairman called the meeting to order at 1:30 p.m. M/S/C (Neel/Curtis) approving minutes of April 22, 1987 with the following correction: CASE 85.122, p. 12, paragraph 4, change "Alejo" to Cholla". There were no Tribal Council comments. May 13, 1987 PC MINUTES Page 2 CONSENT ACTION AGENDA Approval of architectural cases is valid for two years. The approval granted must be exercised within that time period unless extended. CASE 3.931-MINOR (Continued) . Application by H. M. TOUSSI for architectural approval of revise pans for exterior dining area for restaurant in the Desert Fashion Plaza, North Palm Canyon Drive, PD-147. (Ref. Case 5.0275-PD-147. ) Continued to May 27 pending receipt of revised plans. CASE 3.0116 (Continued). Application by CHRISTIAN ASSOCIATES for Robert Poon or arc i ec ura approval of revised door color for a two story, 95 unit hotel on N. Palm Canyon Drive between Via Escuela/Vista Chino, C- 1/R-3 Zones, Section 3. Continued to May 27. CASE 3.0205 - MINOR (Continued) . Application by ORCHID TREE HOTEL for architectural approval of wall and gates to enclose the Baristo Road entrance of patios and revised exterior color for walls at 261 S. Belardo Road, R-3 Zone, Section 15. Continued to May 27 at the applicant's request. SIGN APPLICATION (Continued). Application by INTERNATIONAL HOTEL for architectural approval of revised flag program at entry of hotel , 1800 E. Palm Canyon Drive, R-3 Zone, Section 24. Continued to May 27 pending receipt of revised plans. SIGN APPLICATION. Application by SAFEWAY STORES for architectural approval of revise p ans for increased size of main identification sign for Safeway/Rimrock Shopping Center on E. Palm Canyon Drive between Gene Autry Trail/Palm Hills Drive, C-D-N Zone, Section 30. (Ref. Case 5.0090-CUP. ) Removed from the agenda pending receipt of revised plans. CASE 3.0164 (MINOR) . Application by JOHN BUND for Sbarro Restaurant for architectural approval of revised plans for awning and sign for restaurant at 123 N. Palm Canyon (Desert Fashion Plaza), C-B-D Zone, Section 15. (Ref. Case 5.0275-PD-147. ) Removed from agenda pending receipt of revised plans. CASE 3.0214 (MINOR) . Application by LEURIE SHEKELOW for architectural approval of preliminary landscape plans for a paint store at 410 S. Indian Avenue, C-2 Zone, Section 14. Restudy noting the following: 1. That different variety of plant materials be used. 2. That the tree forms be moved away from the building to give them room to spread and grow. May 13, 1987 PC MINUTES Page 3 CONSENT ACTION AGENDA CASE 3.0214 (MINOR) . (Continued) 3. That the revised plan be reviewed by AAC and Planning Commission. ITEMS REMOVED FROM THE CONSENT ACTION AGENDA CASE 3.0204 - MINOR (Continued) . Application by JOHN WALLING for architectural approval of revised exterior colors for a single family residence at 575 N. Patencio Road, R-1-A Zone, Section 10. Planner (Green) stated that two samples of paint were painted on the house for review and the AAC recommended the darker gray color with brown tones added to the paint, but the applicant requests either dark gray without brown tones or that the building be kept its present color. Discussion followed on the appropriateness of the dark gray without the brown tones. Several commissioners felt that the gray was too harsh. Planner stated also that the approved landscaping plan was not followed, and that some of the plants would have to be removed and a more native landscaping scheme used. John Walling, 45620 Club Drive, Indian Wells, representing the applicant, stated that the new owner is an interior designer and has �- coordinated all colors inside and outside the residence; that the gray color matches the flagstone and other decor; and that a grayish brown tint will clash with the stone; that although the stone is a small portion of the view from the street, the inside has stone and is a strong element; and that the proposed dark gray blends better with the surroundings than the present color of the building. Commissioners Hough, Whitney and Edgmon commented that the gray matches the stone on the building but not the mountain background. M/S/C (Whitney/Olsen) for a restudy of the paint color. CASE 3.900. Application by JERRY FRANKEL for architectural approval of revised elevations and site plan for a retail/commercial project at 689 S. Palm Canyon Drive between Sunny Dunes Road/Camino Parocela, C-2 Zone, Section 23. Planner (Williams) stated that the parking lot has been redesigned because the applicant was unable to finalize action to buy additional land and the building lost square footage as a result; and that the AAC recommended that the upper floor be revised to add additional mass since it is out of proportion with the lower floor. M/S/C (Curtis/Olsen) approving the application subJect to the following conditions: 1. That there be no roof-mounted equipment on the lower roof. May 13, 1987 PC MINUTES Page 4 ITEMS REMOVED FROM THE CONSENT ACTION AGENDA (Continued) CASE 3.900. (Continued) 2. That the canopy be extended an extra bay on the north and the south. 3. That working drawings be submitted for review by AAC and Planning Commission. ARCHITECTURAL APPROVAL ITEMS Approval of architectural cases is valid for two years. The approval granted must be exercised within that time period unless extended. CASE 3.0191. Application by GREAT AMERICAN MINI STORAGE for architectural approval of office/warehouse buildings on Farrell Drive/Research Drive, M-1-P Zones, Section 12. Planner (Green) stated that the AAC recommended a complete restudy and the architects are redesigning the project. M/S/C (Neel/Whitney) for a restudy noting the following: 1. That the architecture as proposed is completely unnacceptable. (AAC noted that the M-1-P Zone is the "show place" zone for industrial architecture, and that the proposed building should have a similar high standard of design). 2. That the site plan should be revised. (Explore using an "L" shaped building. ) 3. That the Farrell Drive appearance shall be revised and improved. The front of building "A" should be the eastern elevation (current front of building is not in best location). The Farrell Drive elevation should incorporate berming and landscaping and delete storefronts. 4. That landscaping shall be added to the parking lots and against buildings. 5. That the chain link fence should be deleted. 6. That the two-story element should be better integrated into the overall design, and that proportions of the roof and building should also be revised. 7. That the mansard concept should be refined and improved architecturally. CASE 3.0222 (MINOR) . Application by VISTA COMMUNICATIONS for approval of dish �•-- antenna on ta Palm Springs Life Building, 303 N. Indian Avenue, C-D-B Zone, Section 15. May 1.3, 1987 PC MINUTES Page 5 ARCHITECTURAL APPROVAL ITEMS (Continued) CASE 3.0222 (MINOR) . (Continued) Planning Director stated that the Palm Springs Life Building on Amado and Indian has illegally installed a dish antenna; that an application for the antenna has just recently been received; that the applicant wants to pursue the possibility of lowering the antenna through engineering alterations, and is requesting a continuance, and that staff is not opposed to a continuance. He stated that the dish is large (16 ft. in diameter) and would rise 14 ft. above the roof and possibly could be relocated, its height lowered, and moved closer to the building, but that it would still be seen from the second floors of the Spa and Maxims hotels; and that the applicants have ignored City directives and want the antenna where it is. He stated that the mounting height and details should be reviewed by the Commission in the redesign. Discussion followed on possible revisions to make the antenna less obtrusive. Commissioner Olsen stated that the antenna would not have been approved if an application had been submitted; that the Commission should adhere to regulations regarding cases such as this, and that the antenna should be relocated out of view or a remote system using telephone lines or cables installed. He stated that there are other alternatives. Denise Miller, 2955 Escoba, representing the applicant, asked if painting the antenna the color of the building and planting two ficus trees to obstruct the view of the antenna would be an acceptable alternative. Chairman stated that planting ficus trees is not an acceptable alternative, and also that the installation was done without permits. M/S/C (Olsen/Edgmon) continuing the application to May 27. PUBLIC HEARINGS CASE 5.0401-MISC (Continued) . Initiation by the CITY OF PALM SPRINGS for revisions of localguidelines relating to objectives, criteria, and procedures for the implementation of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pertaining to the environmental evaluation of public and private activities and the preparation of environmental documents. (This item is categorically exempt from Environmental Assessment per CEQA guidelines. ) Recommendation: That the Commission approve Case 5.0401-MISC. Planner (Evans) stated that the revised procedures have been expanded to cover a broad range of administrative issues, that implementing guidelines were last adopted in 1978, and that the issues are as follows: 1. General Authority. Former procedures indicated that CEQA unctions were to be per formed by the City Manager, City Council , May 13, 1987 PC MINUTES Page 6 PUBLIC HEARINGS (Continued) CASE 5.0401-MISC. (Continued) and designated staff members. The revised guidelines specifically delegate the duties to the Planning Commission and Planning Director. 2. Exemptions. Formerly architectural applications under 10 acres were exempt from CEQA, and this procedure is not consistent with State Law. Revised guidelines include many of these projects. 3. EIR Preparation. Revised guidelines allow staff to determine whether or not an EIR is required, which will save time; the scope will be established in the Notice of Preparation process, with a Public Hearing on the Draft EIR. 4. Negative Declaration. New guidelines allow the Planning Director to prepare the Negative Declaration rather than the Commission. The Commission will review the final Environmental Assessment and take action. The new process will eliminate one Planning Commission meeting. 5. Mitigative Measures. Originally a project could be approved subject to mitigation measures. New procedures will require redesign of a project to address mitigative measures at the beginning of a project, or will provide written agreement to the mitigative measures. �- 6. Scoei_nng Hearing. This section is above and beyond State Law and would require an EIR to have public hearings in draft stages and eliminate input at the end of a project, thus allowing more time for staff review and processing. This procedure should not require much more additional Commission review since the City averages only one EIR review per year. Planner stated that staff has found that the adoption of these CEQA procedures is purely administrative; that there is no evidence that the adoption would have any impact on the environment; that in situations where the Zoning Ordinance requires an EIR staff would begin the process (would affect Palm Hills, the Chino Cone, and Snow Creek) ; and that the Environmental process would be started by staff instead of the Commission and brought to the Commission for final action. Chairman declared the hearing open; there being no appearances, the hearing was closed. M/S/C (Neel/Hough) approving Case 5.0401-MISC. (revised CEQA guidelines) per staff recommendations. CASE 5.0433-CZ (Continued). Application by EL CIELO ASSOCIATES for a change of zone from (Professional ) to "C-1" (Central Retail Business) on the northeast corner of El Cielo/Ramon, "P" Zones, Section 18. May 13, 1987 PC MINUTES Page 7 PUBLIC HEARINGS (Continued) CASE 5.0433-CZ. (Continued) (Commission response to written comments on draft Negative Declaration; final approval . No comments received. ) Recommendation: That the application be continued to June 10, at the applicant's request. Planning Director stated that the case would be considered at the May 19 Joint Planning Commission/AAC/Council study session and recommended that the application be continued to June 10 in case there is further direction at the study session. Chairman declared the hearing open; there being no appearances, the hearing was closed. M/S/C (Neel/Whitney; Curtis/Edgmon abstained) continuing the application to June 10. PUBLIC COMMENTS- None. MISCELLANEOUS ITEMS CASE 5.737-CUP. PLANNING COMMISSION review of street improvement conditions or La Mancha Resort on the southeast corner of Avenida Caballeros/Alejo Road, R-G-A(8) Zone, Section 14. Planning Director stated that the item should be removed from the agenda to research previous requirements and commitments on location, of curb on Alejo. M/S/C (Whitney/Olsen) removing the item from the agenda. CASE 5.0356-PD-168. Planning Commission review of conditions for final occupancy for the Oasis Water Park on Gene Autry Trail , M-1 Zone, Section 20. Planner (Green) stated that there have been a series of inspections and a list of requirements for the applicants to complete the final occupancy and that some items remain to be resolved and that the AAC reviewed the items and made several recommendations as follows: 1. That the decorative paving be omitted from the entry because of the location not being visible from Gene Autry Trail . 2. That palm trees be placed around the pole lights to screen them. (Two AAC members dissented feeling that the trees would only attract attention to the poles. ) 3. That bubblers or drip irrigation be added to the trees on the hill . May 13, 1987 PC MINUTES Page 8 MISCELLANEOUS ITEMS (Continued) CASE 5.0356-PD-168. (Continued) He stated that the applicants are requesting that the parking lot perimeter fence be eliminated, and that unlandscaped berms be installed to inhibit access to the parking lot (with fencing installed later if necessary) ; and that the applicants will relocate speakers away from the residences to the south. Jay Hazelrigg, 38280 Maricopa, the applicant, stated that he did not understand why the light poles are considered obtrusive; that palm trees would just attract attention to the poles, would obstruct the light to the wave pools, and would be a maintenance problem; and that bubblers could be installed on the hills. He stated that most of the parking lot is bermed and landscaped inside with oleanders that access has not been a problem; and that the speakers will be relocated to face north. Planner stated that complaints had been received on the speaker system as. a whole and also on the noise from the concerts; and that the relocation of the speakers away from the residences will probably help. Commissioner Olsen stated that he had visited the park and noticed that the landscaping needed fertilization and watering; and that he was wondering whether or not the park had improved its landscaping maintenance schedule. Mr. Hazelrigg stated that grass has replaced the plants next to the high slide. Planner explained that staff is requesting a maintenance schedule which includes fertilization of trees and plants for landscape continuity; that the new scheme is acceptable, but that the base of the hill is bare and should be grassed, and that bare areas on the hill should be planted with a plant such as rosemary. Commissioner Olsen stated that the grassed area is acceptable, but that all the plants look dry. Commissioner Neel stated that an injector fertilization system for all landscaping should be installed; that injector systems can be rented; and that if an injector system had been installed originally, the plants would be lush and full at the present time; and that the system would overcome the problem of dead soil . Chairman commented that a nutrient injector system will be much less expensive in the long run than hand fertilization. Planner stated that the requirement for an injector system could be added as a condition. Mr. Hazelrigg requested that a final occupancy permit be granted and problems resolved with staff. Commission discussion continued on the palm tree screen around the lights and the perimeter parking lot berms. Planner stated that the palm tree screen was added when the detailed lighting plan 4ggviewed by May 13, 1987 PC MINUTES Page 9 MISCELLANEOUS ITEMS (Continued) CASE 5.0356-PD-168. (Continued) the Commission, because the preliminary plans showed low level light which was eliminated for insurance purposes. Commissioner Whitney stated that berms are better than fences; that the light fixtures are good looking; and that she liked the concerts. Mr. Hazelrigg stated that the berms would be on neighboring property and he would have to negotiate with the owners; that he did not know why the decorate paving previously approved was deleted, but that the paving cannot be seen from Gene Autry and would have no drawing power since people are already in the park when they see the paving. Discussion continued on screening of the light poles. Commissioner Neel stated that if the palm trees were planted at the light standard height, they would soon be above the standards. Planning Director suggested that perimeter fencing for the parking lot be deferred, not waived in case there are future problems; and that the original condition was imposed to prevent Crossley Road from becoming an access road to the park, which has not happened, but could in the future. Planning Commission took the following actions: 1. M/S/C (Whitney/Neel ; Olsen dissented) waiving the decorative paving requirement. 2. M/S/C (Whitney/Curtis; Edgmon/Hough/Lapham dissented) waiving the addition of palm trees around the 40 ft. light standards. 3. M/S/C (Edgmon/Whitney) deferring the requirement for perimeter parking lot fencing until necessary, and allowing additional berming to be added. 4. M/S/C (Curtis/Edgmon) directing that the speaker system noise solution be left to staff and brought to Commission for review. (The existing speaker system is not acceptable. ) 5. M/S/C (Olsen/Neel ) requiring the installation of an injector fertilization system for all landscaping. Planning Director stated that staff has received consistent complaints about noise from the homeowners immediately to the south and on the golf course, that a petition has been received signed by 50-100 people on an overall complaint about the park; and that that there is a condition in the planned development district that requires sound not to extend across the park property line; and that the applicants are not meeting this requirement. He stated that a certificate of occupancy could be issued if the applicants work toward solving the problems; that the worst case scenario would be to remove the speaker system or close the park; and that the Council wants whatever action is necessary to eliminate noise complaints. He stated that turning the speakers to the north will help, but not solve the problem; that perhaps non- electrically generated equipment such as megaphones may have to be sub- May 13, 1987 PC MINUTES Page 10 MISCELLANEOUS ITEMS (Continued) CASE 5.0356-PD-168. (Continued) stituted in the future; and that the staff would have no problem with the applicant's compliance with the original requirement of low level speakers and noise not extending across the property lines. He stated that the City has controls over noise after granting the certificate of occupancy. Planner stated that the preliminary plans showed lower level speakers and speakers in the landscaping, but a detailed application on the specifics was never submitted; that the system was installed without approval , and that the system is different from that which was approved. He stated that a study would have to determine if the higher level installation of the speakers is causing the noise problem, but that the speakers are above the berms. Commissioner Whitney stated that the City encouraged the business and then stifled it which is not fair. Chairman stated that the Commission is trying to achieve a balance between keeping the neighbors happy and allowing the business to continue, and that the noise level solution should be left to the experts. Planning Director explained that the original approval was for the sound to be in close proximity to all areas of the park, but now the speakers are mounted on building fascias; that staff has to work with the applicants to achieve a performance goal ; and that if the applicants apply for a conditional use permit for concerts, an acoustical plan prepared by an acoustical engineer will be required or the application will not be accepted. Chairman stated that the services of an acoustical engineer should be considered regarding the current noise level . Planning Director stated that the use will be in jeopardy unless mitigative measures are taken regarding the noise level . Chairman reiterated to the applicant that a Certificate of Occupancy can be issued if all conditions are met, but that applicant must comply with the performance criteria. CASE 20.099. Request by RIVERSIDE COUNTY for Planning Commission review of 1_anFllse Ordinance amendment regarding wind turbine noise standards in the City of Palm Springs' Sphere of Influence. Planning Director stated that staff is opposing a zoning text amendment to change the point of measurement for wind turbine noise; that the ordinance amendment would reduce the level of noise protection for property zoned for residential uses, but not designated residential on the County General Plan; and that the proposed amendment would allow future projects to exceed City noise standards and create future noise `�-- problems. He stated that in lieu of the amendment the County should consider allowing a waiver of the point of measurement provisions by a recorded noise easement from the adjacent affected property. May 13, 1987 PC MINUTES Page 11 MISCELLANEOUS ITEMS (Continued) CASE 20.099. (Continued M/S/C (Curtis/Olsen) opposing the proposed Zoning Text Amendment to the County's Wind Energy Noise Standards based on the following findings: 1. That the proposed ordinance affects properties within the Palm Springs Sphere of Influence. 2. That Riverside County and Alameda County, in conjunction with the California Energy Commission, have contracted for a comprehensive wind turbine noise analysis which will include a comprehensive review of the wind energy noise standards. 3. That affected properties are currently zoned Controlled Development (W-2) and have water services within close proximity. 4. That the County General Plan Open Space designation of "Desert" and applicable land use determination policies may allow for residential development within the affected area. 5. That Riverside County has not initiated the Zoning Consistency Program within the affected area, and until such time that existing zoning is changed, this amendment should not be considered. 6. That the primary use of property within the Natural Asset (N-A) Zone is single family residential . 7. That wind energy noise should not impact adjacent properties designated for residential uses inclusive of the W-2 and N-A Zones unless adjacent and impacted property owners consent. CASE 85.125. Request by DAVID HOOD for a certificate of compliance for property on the northeast corner of Via Escuela/N. Palm Canyon Drive, C- 1/R-3 Zones, Section 3. Planning Director stated that the applicant is proposing elimination of a lot line to combine two lots into one, since the lots are not those of a recorded subdivision. M/S/C (Curtis/Neel ) approving Certificate of Compliance 85.125. ARCHITECTURAL APPROVAL ITEMS (Continued) Approval of architectural cases is valid for two years. The approval granted must be exercised within that time period unless extended. CASE 3.0095. Application by the HOLT GROUP for architectural approval of etas ed landscape plans for an office/print shop building (Printing Place) on Valdivia Way between Campana Way/Tachevah Drive, M-1-P Zone, �..- Section 7. M/S/C (Curtis/Olsen) for a restudy noting the following: May 13, 1987 PC MINUTES Page 12 ARCHITECTURAL APPROVAL ITEMS (Continued) CASE 3.0096. (Continued) 1. That palms shall be increased in size to 16' , 12' and 8' C.T.H. 2. That multi-trunk canopy trees shall be added at the entry (olives suggested) . 3. That Gardenia and Draceana shall be substituted with another species. 4. That Juniper at the entry shall be substituted with another lower species. 5. That the entry area shall be revised to provide a strong landscape statement. 6. That the footings in the wall on the eastern boundary shall be notched to accept plants. MISCELLANEOUS ITEMS (Continued) CITY COUNCIL ACTIONS. Update of City Council actions. CASE 5.0436 - ZTA/CZ. "R" Overlay was given final approval by the Council with minor anguage changes which will have no effect on the `�.. intent. - JOINT PLANNING COMMISSION/CITY COUNCIL/AAC STUDY SESSION. May 19, 12 Noon, Large Conference Room. Items will include the Palm Springs Mall colors with the AAC and the new owner of the mall ; review of Case 5.0433-CZ E1 Cielo Associates, proposed change of zone on El Cielo/Ramon; the Zoning Text Amendments, and a review of the architectural review process. REGULAR PLANNING COMMISSION STUDY SESSION. Planning Commission regular study session and adjourned meeting wi a held May 20, 3 - 5 p.m. , in the Large Conference Room. COMMISSION/STAFF REPORTS OR REQUESTS. DESERT BEAUTIFUL AWARDS. Planning Director stated that the City received two Desert eautiful awards - for the new entryway at the north end and landscaping for the Civic Center and City Hall , and that an award was also given to a commercial building on Valvida Way in which Gold's Gymnasium is located. BURNED HOUSE ON ANA MARIA PLACE. Staff will request a written report from the Building Division on s atus of the house that burned 12 months ago. ,, ADDED STARTERS. (Determination of eligibility for consideration. ) None. May 13, 1987 PC MINUTES Page 13 MISCELLANEOUS ITEMS (Continued) ADJOURNMENT M/S/C (Olsen/Edgmon) adjourning the meeting at 3:15 p.m. to Wednesday, May 20, in conjunction with the Planning Commission regular study session, 3 - 5 p.m. in the Large Conference Room, City Hall . A&n .4 A A- iA3�-o� I FL-ARN I NG—M RECTOR MDR/ml