HomeMy WebLinkAbout1987/07/22 - MINUTES PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES
Council Chamber, City Hall
July 22, 1987
1:30 p.m.
ROLL CALL F-Y 1987 - 1988
Present Present Excused Absences
Planning Commission This Meeting to Date to date
Larry Lapham, Chairman X 2 0
Hugh Curtis X 2 0
Martha Edgmon - 1 1
Brent Hough X 2 0
Earl Neel X 2 0
Gary Olsen X 2 0
Barbara Whitney X 2 0
Staff Present
Marvin o(�os, Planning Director
Siegfried Siefkes, Assistant City Attorney
Fred Hawkins, Director of Parks, Recreation and Library
Douglas Evans, Planner
Robert Green, Planner
Richard Patenaude, Planner
Margo Williams, Planner
Carol Vankeeken, Planner
Mary E. Lawler, Recording Secretary
Architectural Advisory Committee - July 20, 1987
Chris Mills, Chairman Absent: Martha Edgmon
Mike Buccino Barbara Whitney
Tom Doczi Gary Olsen
Brent Hough
William Johnson
Will Kleindienst
Chairman called the meeting to order at 1:30 p.m.
M/S/C (Curtis/Neel ; Edgmon absent) approving minutes of July 8, 1987 as
submitted.
There were no Tribal Council comments.
`�r
r July 22, 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.
M/S/C (Curtis/Hough; Edgmon absent) taking the following actions:
CASE 3.947 (CONTINUED) . Application by METROPOLITAN THEATERS for architectural
approval o revisions to the sign program for a 6-plex motion picture
theater at 789 E. Tahquitz Way between Calle Alvarado/Calle EL Segundo, C-
1-AA Zone Section 1.4. (Ref. Case 3.309. )
Approved, subject to the following condition:
1. That courses of block in the planter on the west side of the building
be removed.
2. That the poster cases be pegged or pinned so that they float free
from the masonry.
3. That some landscaping be retained in the planter in the form of
ground cover.
4. Details to be reviewed at the staff level , including cross-sections
of the pinning of the poster cases.
5. That the poster cases on the south elevation also be pinned or pegged
in a manner similar to those on the west side.
CASE 3.0191. Application by GREAT AMERICAN STORAGE for architectural approval of
la ape ape plans for office/warehouse project on Farrell Drive/Research
Drive, M-1-P Zone, Section 12.
Approved, subject to the following conditions:
1. That trees be substituted for shrubs on the north, south and east
exterior elevations of the mini-storage building. Groups of trees
shall be used. Mesquite, Eucalyptus and Bottle trees are suggested.
2. That Rosemary, Lantana and Star Jasmine be minimum one gallon size.
3. That palms be added to the Farrell and Research Drive elevations
(Washingtonia Robusta and Filifera) .
4. That olives be minimum 36" - 48" box size.
5. That bottle trees be minimum 30" box size.
6. That hose bibs be added to the exterior of the mini-storage buildings
for watering of trees.
July 22, 1987 PC MINUTES Page 3
CASE 3.0250 _ (MINOR) . Application by LEE SOBLE for architecural approval of
revisions IF—approved landscape plan for commercial building at 1301. N.
Palm Canyon Drive, C-1 Zone, Section 10.
Approved, subject to the following conditions:
1. That the trees located at the back or northerly part of the parking
lot be replaced and additional trees added to the finger planter and
on the east side of the parking area:
2. That trees be as per the original approved plans for species and
size.
CASE 3.0254 (MINOR) . Application by TOPA THRIFT AND LOAN for architectural
approval of exterior revisions to front of building at 886 N. Palm Canyon
Drive, C-1 Zone, Section 11.
Planning Director stated that Topa, without approval , changed exterior
material on one-half of the building to wood and that both halves are to
match using wood.
Approved, subject to the following conditions:
1. That the remainder of the building be painted the same color to match
the "Toga" space.
2. That the doors and windows on the adjacent tenant space be changed to
match the "Tops" revisions.
CASE 3.0261 (MINOR) , Application by DOOR KING for architectural approval of new
entry gates, revised guard house roof color, and sign color for Canyon
Heights Condominium project at South Palm Canyon Drive/Murray Canyon Drive,
R-1-A Zone (IL) , Section 34. (Reference Case 5.0032-PD-78. )
Restudy of new entry gates; denial of the proposed color change to the
copper guard house roof and sign (to be returned to their natural weathered
color) .
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 3.0197 (MINOR) . Application by DESERT HOSPITAL for architectural approval
of revised pans for waiting area for intensive care and surgical units at
1150 N. Indian Avenue, R-4 Zone, Section 11.
Planner (Patenaude) presented the case.
July 22, 1987 PC MINUTES Page 4
CASE 3.0197 (MINOR) (Continued)
(M/S/C Neel/Hough; Edgmon absent) approving the application, subject to the
following condition:
That all recommendations of the Development Committee be implemented.
Note: The landscaping was restudied.
CASE 3.0236. Application by MICHAEL PIO for architectural approval of
warehouse/office complex on Valdivia Way between Tachevah Drive/La .Campana,
M-1-P Zone, Section 7.
Planner (Green) stated that the AAC recommended restudy because the design
is not of high enough quality for the area.
(M/S/C Curtis/Olsen; Edgmon absent; Hough dissented) for a restudy of the
application, noting the following:
1. That the design is completely unacceptable and not of the quality to
be maintained in the area.
2. That components in the elevation should be uniform in the front and
side elevations.
3. That the design of the side elevation (garage doors and window/door
panels) shall be revised.
4. That the building appears to be featureless with no articulation in
the elevation or roof line.
5. That trees should be added against the building on the north and
south sides.
CASE 3.0251 (MINOR). Application by WILLIAM KLIENDIENST for architectural
approval of remodel and addition to single-family residence at 690 Stevens
Road, R-1-A Zone, Section 10.
(M/S/C Whitney/Curtis; Edgmon absent) tabling the application.
CASE 5.0421-PD-185-B. Application by DESERT HOSPITAL CORPORATION for
arch!tec ura approval of elevations and site plan for El Mirador Medical
Offices and tower building, 1150 N. Indian Avenue, R-4 Zone, Section 11.
(Architectural approval only. )
Planner (Patenaude) presented the case and stated that revised plans were
submitted and include added detailing, especially in the new extension;
that the AAC was pl eased with the project and recommended approval , subject
July 22, 1987 PC MINUTES Page 5
CASE 5.0421-PD-185-B. (Continued)
to returning with studies of detailing in the four-story area on the side
of the new entryway to reduce the scale; and that plans are the same scale
and massing as the Commission previously reviewed.
Commissioner Hough stated that the building appears large in the back and
detailing will be added to reduce the rear mass.
Planner explained that the reason the area is not emphasized is that the
applicants did not want to call attention to the back; that the finish will
be sand-colored stucco, that the approval would be for the architecture
only with the use to be determined when the Planned Development District
application is reviewed later; and that a color board will be presented at
the time the PD application is heard.
(M/S/C Hough/Olsen; Edgmon absent) approving the architecture, subject to
the following conditions:
1. Architectural details and/or landscaping to mitigate the overwhelming
scale - especially at the east end of the new structure, but also
along the north elevation of the same.
2. Methods to highlight the main entryway on the north elevation.
3. Fenestration of smaller windows in new structure to more closely
match the height/width ratio of the windows of the E1 Mirador
building.
�.. 4. Preliminary landscape plans.
NOTE: The parking layout and landscaping are restudied.
CASE 3.0263 (MINOR) . Application by MARK LONN for Plaza Resort and Spa for
arch!tec ura approval of revisions to a mechanical equipment structure for
hotel at 2601 Golf Club Drive, R-3 Zone, Section 29 (ref. cases 2.540 and
2.573) .
(M/S/C Whitney/Curtis; Edgmon absent) for a restudy, noting the following:
That more detailed development plans are to be submitted,
specifically the wall/fence detail , landscape plans, and mechanical
equipment specifications and details.
Planner (Evans) stated that the applicant is redesigning the application
taking into consideration the AAC recommendations.
July 22, 1987 PC MINUTES Page 6
PUBLIC HEARINGS
TTM 20603. Application by SURESH DODDIAH for Beulah Raehn for a Tentative Tract
Map to allow a subdivision of 56 lots located north of Acanto Drive, east
of S. Palm Canyon Drive, W-R-1-B Zone, Section 35.
(Commission response to written comments on Draft Negative Declaration;
final approval . No comments received. )
Recommendation: That the Commission order the filing of a Negative
Declaration and give final approval , subject to conditions.
Planner (Williams) stated that the map was approved previously, expired,
and was refiled; and that the energy deficiencies noted in the original
findings have now been corrected and the lots and homes will be oriented to
to save energy; that staff recommends that the Commission direct staff to
meet with the County to discuss the possibility of public access instead of
half private and half City/County streets; and that the AAC recommended
approval , subject to the map meeting City standards prior to final map
approval .
Planning Director recommended that architectural approval be required for
all the lots since new tracts include the condition, and that there had
been aesthetic problems with tracts that did not have the requirement.
Chairman declared the hearing open.
Suresh Doddiah of San Bernardino, project architect, stated that he had
just become aware that Acanto was a half private and half public street,
�. but that the problems can be resolved. He stated that he accepted the
recommended conditions.
There being no further appearances, the hearing was closed.
Planning Director stated that the CC&Rs for the map will be reviewed for
property maintenance standards for the private road, but that no special
development standards are proposed or the application would be a Planned
Development District, but that each lot will require architectural approval
and that the R-1-B zoning requires a minimum residential size of 1500 sq.
ft. plus garage.
Planner explained that the lot sizes range from 1.5,000 sq. ft. to
approximately 20,000 sq. ft.
M/S/C (Curtis/Neel ; Edgmon absent) ordering the filing of a Negative
Declaration and approving TTM 20603 based on the following findings and
subject to the following conditions:
FINDINGS:
1. That the site is adequate in size and shape to accommodate the pro-
posed subdivision.
2. That the proposed subdivision is consistent with the Zoning Ordinance
�,, and General Plan.
July 22, 1987 PC MINUTES Page 7
TTM 20603.° "('Continued)
3. That the site is adequate physically for the type of development and
density of development.
4. That the proposed subdivision is not likely to result in any adverse
environmental impacts.
CONDITIONS
1. That the conditions of the Development Committee dated June 24, 1987,
shall apply.
2. That houses on all lots receive architectural approval .
3. That the following mitigative measures be implemented:
a. That automatic sprinkler systems be required for all
structures.
b. That if during site development, any indications of cultural
artifacts are discovered construction will be stopped and a
qualified archaeologist called to analyze the finds.
4. That CC & Rs be submitted for City approval prior to filing of final
map which demonstrate common area and street frontage maintenance.
CASE 5.0445-CUP. Application by VICKI GORD/DESERT SONSHINE PRE-SCHOOL for a
on itional Use Permit to allow a pre-school facility on Via Negocio
between Sunrise Way/Vista Chino, C-1 Zone, Section 1.
(This action is categorically exempt from Environmental Assessment per CEQA
guidelines. )
Recommendation: That the Commission give final approval to CUP 5.0445.
Planner (Williams) stated that the application is for a pre-school in the
old PennySaver building on Via Negocio, that the school will be for three-
year-olds, that the landscaping has been revised per AAC recommendations,
but not seen by the AAC; that there is a need for the application to be
approved as soon as possible because of state licensing procedures, and
that the redesigned landscape plans adds three Ash trees to the playground;
and that the applicants are requesting deferrment of sidewalks.
Chairman declared the hearing open.
Vicki Gord, 2002 Whitewater Club Drive, the applicant, explained that the
school is a non-profit Christian pre-school and has been in existence on
Sunrise Way for three years; that there is a long waiting list and a need
for additional space; that the leased building will house 35 three-year-
olds; that there are stringent State licensing procedures; that approval is
needed for construction of the playground; that 75% of the waiting list is
three-year-olds; and that the present building will be for four and five-
year-olds with the new playground reserved for three-year-olds.
July 22, 1.987 PC MINUTES Page 8
CASE 5.0445 4UP' (Continued)
Planner (Williams) stated that there was one letter in opposition from an
adjacent property owner who stated that the area is not suitable for
children.
Chairman commented that there was already a pre-school in the area.
There being no further appearances, Chairman declared the hearing closed.
Chairman stated that he had no problem with deferring installation of
sidewalks until foot traffic requires it and asked whether or not the
revised landscape and fence plan meet the recommendations of the AAC.
Planner stated that there was no objection to the proposed wood fence and
that the AAC only wanted to see the details.
Commissioner Curtis stated that he had no concerns with the deferrment of
the sidewalk since the area is underdeveloped; and that with fencing behind
the building and landscaping, there should be no problems.
Commissioner Hough stated that he felt deferring sidewalks until foot
traffic warrants it is a very undefined condition.
Chairman explained that the condition is suitable and that the sidewalks
will be installed when the area is more developed for pedestrian traffic.
M/S/C (Curtis/Hough; Edgmon absent) approving CUP 5.0445 based on the
following findings and subject to the following conditions:
FINDINGS
1. That the use applied for is properly one for which a Conditional Use
Permit is authorized by this Ordinance.
2. That the said use is desirable for the development of the community,
is in harmony with the various elements or objectives of the General
Plan, and is not detrimental to existing uses or to future uses
specifically permitted in the zone in which the proposed use is to be
located.
3. That the site for the intended use is adequate in size and shape to
accommodate said use, including yards, setbacks, walls or fences,
landscaping.
4. That the site for the proposed use relates to streets and highways
properly designed and improved to carry the type and quantity of
traffic to be generated by the proposed use.
5. That the conditions to be imposed and shown on the approved site plan
are deemed necessary to protect the public welfare.
CONDITIONS
.,, 1. That all recommendations of the Development Committee shall be met
with the exception that sidewalks will be deferred until foot traffic
warrants them.
July 22, 1987 PC MINUTES Page 9
CASE 5.0445-CUP (Continued)
2. That the Planning Commission reserves the right to review this
operation in the future, if complaints arise and add/or alter the
conditions of approval .
3. That the revised fence and landscape plan submitted for Commission
review on July 22 is approved.
ARCHITECTURAL APPROVAL ITEMS (Continued) . Approval of architectural cases is valid for
two years. Ine approval granted must be exercised within that time period unless extended
CASE 3.0264 (MINOR) . Application by PALM SPRINGS UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT for
approval of a portable classroom building to be located at Palm Springs
Youth Center on Mesquite Avenue between El Cielo/E1 Placer, W-R-1-C Zone,
Section 19.
Planner (Vankeek0h) stated that the original Commission approval of
portable buildings will expire in November, but that the School District
has now requested a third portable unit on the site, and` that the building
will be used for a continuation high school . She stated that the School
District is also considering buying the Youth Center.
Chairman stated that temporary buildings often become permanent and that if
the School District continues the pattern, the site will look like a used
trailer lot. He stated that a master plan is necessary, that no more
approval should be given until it is presented, and that the proposal is a
poor usage for the nice area.
`... Planning Director explained that there has been turnover in the School
District business office, that the person who placed the first trailer is
no longer with the School District, and that the School District has been
trying to resolve the continuation school problem and to obtain state funds
to purchase the site and renovate the Youth Center building which will be
costly. He stated that there are both land use and architectural issues
involved and that if the site were purchased, a CUP and GPA would be
required to operate the school . He stated that if the two were approved,
the City would have no control over what is on the site, except maintenance
if a maintenance agreement were signed. He stated that the School District
is financially insecure and has no budget for aesthetics or environment,
although it has been discussed in committees to which he belongs, and that
the Commission can take action to not have portables on the site. He
stated that the state has mandated that 30 percent of school housing
(classrooms) be put in portables for flexibility in housing students, and
that the height of the trailers, including a .three-foot platform, is
approximately 12 feet.
Commissioner Hough stated that the site should be screened by landscaping
and a plan submitted, and that there is a covered area that is permanent on
the site which seems in conflict with the idea of portable buildings.
Planning Director stated that the District has not requested a time
extension and that a master plan timetable should be required.
July 22, 1987 PC MINUTES Page 10
CASE 3.0264 (MINOR) (Continued)
Commissioner Whitney stated that she understood the need for screening, but
... that she is sympathetic to the School District and to force it to spend
money on temporary areas is not in the best interest of the students since
the money could be spent on other more necessary items.
Chairman stated that before any more approvals are given to structures that
might be on the site forever, a master plan and screening plan should be
submitted by the District; and that the school should be informed by staff
that piecemeal placement of portables will not be approved and a master
plan is needed.
Commissioner Whitney suggested that the Commission assist the School
District to relocate the portables where they are not as visible.
M/S/C (Hough/Neel ; Edgmon absent) removing the application from the agenda
until a master plan and landscape plan are submitted by the School
District.
CASE 5.0405-CUP. Application by the CITY OF PALM SPRINGS for architectural
approval of final development plans for Phase I of a public park (McCallum
Desert Reserve) on El Cielo Road, north of Sonora Road, W-R-1-C Zone,
Section 19.
M/S/C (Curtis/Hough; Edmon absent) tabling the application.
MISCELLANEOUS ITEMS
ADDED STARTERS. (Determination of eligibility for consideration. )
None.
CASE 3.0010. Application by WESSMAN DEVELOPMENT CO. for Halasi-Levinson
Associates for architectural approval of a detailed grading plan for a 104-
unit apartment complex (Casa Del Sol ) at Belardo Road/Morongo Road
intersection, R-3 Zone (IL) , Section 22.
Planner (Green) stated that the AAC and staff were concerned :with the
design of the frontage which shows a slope up to a boundary wall , and that
the slope and the wall total approximately 11 feet in height which is a
harsh design. He stated that the applicant indicated he would redesign the
frontage, but he now is requesting approval of the grading with the grading
details to be returned to the Commission in the future.
Design issues were discussed.
Commissioner Hough questioned whether or not a minimum height on the
frontage could be conditioned. Planner explained that a four-foot wall
with a two-foot retainer to make the slope less steep could be considered.
Commissioner Whitney objected to approving a design which may force the
July 22, 1987 PC MINUTES Page 11
CASE 3.0010. (Continued)
Commi_ss.ion to compromise in the future. Chairman stated that the design is
too sensitive and should not be approved until it is satisfactory.
Planning Director stated that the applicants are raising pads on the
project, not lowering streets, and need fill on the frontage, and that the
applicants are requesting a waiver of the sidewalk requirement which is an
unusual condition in a multi-family zone. Chairman suggested that the
frontage be lowered and stated that the application should be continued
because much dirt is being moved on the site.
M/S/C (Olsen/Curtis; Edgmon absent) continuing the application to August
12.
CASE 3.0251 (MINOR) . Application by WILLIAM KLIENDIENST for architectural
approval of remodel and addition to single-family residence at 690 Stevens
Road, R-1-A Zone, Section 10.
M/S/C (Curtis/Whitney; Edgmon absent) removing the application from the
table.
Planning Director stated that the major concern is that the applicant is
requesting maximum lot coverage in the R-1-A Zone, and that there are no
grounds for a variance or varying from the provisions of the Ordinance.
Planner (Williams) stated that the applicant's plan is to add 1500 sq. ft.
in the rear of the house and that the addition will not be visible from the
<... street and that they are requesting a 32 percent lot coverage, although the
maximum allowed is 30 percent.
Chairman asked whether or not an AMM could be granted. Planning Director
stated that there are no grounds since the lot is a standard one and no
different from other lots in the vicinity, and that the Ordinance shouldn't
be changed if the Commission wants to increase lot coverage to 32 percent.
He stated that there is a exorbitant amount of concrete on the lot at the
present and that the AAC recommended that some of the concrete be removed
and landscaping planted since there is not much landscaping on the site.
Will Kleindienst, 221 S. Palm Canyon Drive, project architect, stated that
the lot is steep.
Planner explained that the addition would be 500 sq. ft over the maximum
allowed.
Commissioner Olsen stated that if the slope area were included, there would
be more square footage in the lot.
Planning Director stated that the Ordinance does not allow for deficiencies
in lot sizes, only in lot coverage, and that findings for a variance must
be made to allow extra coverage. He stated that the lot is over the
minimum size and the lot is not causing the coverage problem (the addition
is). He stated that the applicant could build a second story, but is
handicapped and does not want to add the second story; and that no matter
what the requirements, there is always someone who wants to have more.
July 22, 1987 PC MINUTES Page 12
CASE 3.0251 (MINOR) (Continued)
Mr. _Klei.ndie,nst stated that there is no place that the applicant is willing
to reduce footage because of her lifestyle which includes much
entertaining, and that the mechanical equipment has been placed on the roof
because there is no room for it on the lot.
Chairman stated that he understood the Planning Director' s point of view on
the percentage of coverage, but that the difference between 68% and 70% is
small .
Planning Director stated that people often request that the Ordinance be
ignored and that the Ordinance could be changed to allow Planning
Commission approval of additional lot coverage, but that a percentage of
coverage is more definite and that variance procedures could be discussed
with the Council regarding this.
Chairman stated that lot coverage should be done through the AMM
procedures, and that perhaps the Hillside Ordinance would be applicable.
Planning Director stated that there is staff approval through the AMM
process, but findings like those of a variance must be made. Assistant
City Attorney also explained that findings have to be made for AMMs.
Planning Director reviewed the AMM section of the revised Zoning Ordinance
and stated that the new Ordinance provides for 20 percent additional
coverage if findings can be made and suggested that the Commission review
the architecture and direct staff to resolve the lot coverage issue.
M/S/C (Curtis/Hough; Edgmon absent) approving the application, subject to
the following conditions:
1. That final landscape plans, including lighting and irrigation, be
submitted to the AAC for review and approval .
2. That the driveway on the easterly portion of the property be
realigned to include more landscaping.
3. That all recommendations of the Development Committee be met.
4. That the lot coverage issue be resolved between applicant and staff.
CASE 3.0194. Application by ROY WILLIAMS CONSTRUCTION CO. for Robbie Reed's
—Reesfa—urant (formerly Jasper's) for architectural approval of an entryway at
500 E. Palm Canyon Drive, R-3 Zone, Section 23.
Planner (Vankeeken ) explained that the AAC felt that any entryway addition
should be integrated with the architecture, and that the applicants want a
shaded area for patrons.
M/S/C (Olsen/Whitney; Edgmon absent) for a restudy, noting the following:
That the proposed design does not complement the building. (The
condition is possible, however, the design needs to be integrated
with the existing architecture. )
July 22, 1.987 PC MINUTES Page 13
CASE 3.721. Application by CITY OF PALM SPRINGS REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY for
architectural approval of detailed landscape plans for Indian Avenue.
Planning Director stated that the plan show a continuation of the palm tree
plantings of Robusta palms on 60-foot centers with bus-stop accents and
that the plan began with Crepe Myrtle trees which have a good appearance,
but branch too low for pedestrians, and that a type of ash tree will be
reviewed. He stated that sidewalks would be continued to Alejo on the east
side for a continuous surface and that the plans would not be reviewed by
the Commission again unless review is requested by the Commission.
M/S/C (Olsen/Whitney; Edgmon absent) approving the application, subject to
the following conditions:
1. That additional shade trees be provided at the bus stop areas.
2. That canopy trees be aligned with parking spaces.
3. That an alternate species for the Crepe Myrtle be explored.
4. That tree type changes be reviewed by staff with Commissioner Neel .
CASE 3.0266 (Minor) . Initiation by the CITY OF PALM SPRINGS GOLDEN ANNIVERSARY
COMMITTEE of architectural approval of a vertical banner concept on Palm
Canyon Drive Indian Avenue, and Sunrise Park and flagpoles on Tahquitz Way
to advertise the City's 50th Anniversary Celebration.
�..- Assistant City Attorney stated that Commissioner Whitney would be required
to abstain, since she is Chairman of the Golden Anniversary Committee.
Planning Director stated that several 50th Anniversary designs for areas in
the City will be reviewed by the Commission; that banners will be placed
across the streets near the tram and downtown with vertical "castle"
banners placed on brackets on trees alternating on sides of the streets on
Palm Canyon and Indian; and that the AAC and Council agreed with the
concept. He stated that flags of 50 states, Mexico, and Canada will be
placed on brackets and hung along Tahquitz from the downtown to Sunrise.
Director of Parks, Recreation and Library stated that for a more festive
appearance for a "Fun-in-the-Park Day" for the 50th anniversary celebration
on April 23, 1988, the Committee is proposing vertical banners at Belardo
and Sunrise, Sunrise and Ramon, and the entrances to the Pavilion parking
lot.
M/S/C (Curtis/Hough; Whitney abstained; Edgmon absent) approving the
application, subject to the following condition:
That the details of the bracket and method of attachment be reviewed
by staff.
July 22, 1987 PC MINUTES Page 14
MISCELLANEOUS ITEMS (Continued)
CASE 5.,0452-MISC. Planning Commission review of DESERT WATER AGENCY CAPITAL
IMPROV M NT PROGRAM for fiscal year 1987/88.
Planning Director stated that a requirement of state law is that CIPs of
agencies be reviewed by the Planning Commission for compliance with the
City's General Plan, that there are no proposed extensions into urban
reserve areas or guarded areas for the DWA improvements; and that the CIP
is in conformance with the City' s General Plan.
M/S/C (Curtis/Olsen; Edgmon absent) finding that the DWA CIP is consistent
with the City's General Plan.
CASE 5.0405-CUP. Application by the CITY OF PALM SPRINGS for architectural
approval of final development plans for Phase I of a public park (McCallum
Desert Reserve) on E1 Cielo Road, north of Sonora Road, W-R-1-C Zone,
Section 19.
M/S/C (Olsen/Curtis; Edgmon absent) removing the item from the table.
Planner (Evans) described the final development plans. He stated that one
of the conditions of approval was that the park benefit the neighborhood;
that the final plans delete the connection to the equestrian center; and
that the change requires a public hearing and no final action can be taken
by the Commission until the public hearing. He stated that the planting
theme is consistent with the preliminary plan which shows desert plantings
for the four desert areas of the Southwest. He presented the Planning
Division Development Committee conditions.
Fred Hawkins, Director of Parks, Recreation and Library, stated that the
project had been in the planning stages for two years, that the Council is
interested in creating a desert preserve, that because of the uniqueness of
the project it is funded by the McCallum Foundation and the City, that
$115,000 has been funded, and that the area was chosen as a demonstration
model for state funding. He stated that there has been some confusion over
the desirability of an access road into the Equestrian Center, but that in
designing the road, it was determined that division would develop two
distinct areas at the park (causing the park to lose its naturalness) and
that instead a loop road into the park has been designed which is needed
for maintenance. He stated that the road all the way through the park will
not solve problems for residents on Sonora Road and that the material for
the loop road can be "steel slag" which can be used for the parking lot,
resembles concrete but is gray and gravelly and gives a rural appearance,
and can be driven on in inclement weather. He stated that curbs and
gutters do not lend themselves to the appearance of the park, that there
have been varying feelings about even having a road from various
commissions (some of whom did not want the road) , and that the AAC feels
that the road should not go through the park. He stated that the perimeter
fence concept is bollards and chains similar to the fencing at Mesquite
Country Club to prevent entrance by off-road vehicles and that the cost
estimate for landscaping alone is considerable and may exceed $115,000. He
...,, stated that through discussions with the Engineering Division, FAU funds
can be used for improvements on El Cielo and that landscape architects are
designing and choosing plant materials for the four desert areas depicted
July 22, 1987 PC MINUTES Page 15
CASE .50405-MISC. (Continued)
and that the concept is unique and exciting and will benefit the City. He
stated that phasing is necessary because of inflationary costs.
Commissioner Hough stated that he did not see what benefits the road
through the park would be to residents on Sonora.
Commissioner Olsen agreed, stating that a road through the park might
become heavily travelled instead of a leisurely road for people who enjoy
the foliage and that the CUP condition should be revised if necessary.
Commissioner Hough stated that the road would be gated and closed at night.
Director of Parks, Recreation and Library stated that vandalism and theft
are problems.
Commissioner Curtis stated that since the project is phased, it would be
best to include improvements on E1 Cielo with Phase I because of the
possibility of future funding problems.
Director of Parks, Recreation and Library stated that street improvements
on E1 Cielo hopefully will be complete when the park opens.
Discussion followed on street improvements. Commissioner Olsen stated his
motion alluded to street improvements on El Cielo and Sonora street
frontages being constructed with Phase II.
M/S/C (Olsen/Curtis; Edgmon absent) approving the application, . subject to
.. the following conditions:
1. That all recommendations of the Development Committee be met.
2. That street improvements on El Cielo be constructed with Phase 1.
3. That a public hearing be scheduled due to the change in the
configuration of the park road.
MISCELLANEOUS ITEMS (Continued)
CITY COUNCIL ACTIONS. Update of City Council actions.
Case 5.0400-ZTA. Council is reviewing the Ordinance revisions weekly and
as questions on the 18 to 24-foot height limit. The Ordinance has been
adopted as an interim one for approximately four months. All revisions
suggested by the City Council will be returned to the Commission before
that time.
Hillside curbs and gutters. Council may not redo the hillside standards,
unless there is a arge area proposed for development. Council is
concerned about flood control even though the members do not like curbs and
gutters on the hillsides.
t July 22, 1987 PC MINUTES Page 16
CITY COUNCIL ACTIONS. (Continued)
Joint Worskshop with Council . Workshop may be scheduled in the fall on
General Pan and zoning issues. No final action by the Commission or
Council will be deferred on any project.
ADMINISTRATIVE NOTE
Planning Director stated that there were people in the audience who were
not present When their cases were heard and wished to speak and the
Commission might wish to reconsider the actions taken earlier in the
meeting.
i
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 3.0236. Application by MICHAEL PIO for architectural approval of
warehouse/office complex on Valdivia Way between Tachevah Drive/La Campana,
M-1-P Zone, Section 7.
Mike Pio, the applicant, explained that action was taken by the Commission
for a restudy of the project and that he felt that staff direction and
concerns had been addressed in the resubmitted plans. He requested more
discussion since the delay will create a hardship because his current lease
is expiring.
Commissioners declined to reconsider their action.
CASE 3.0010. Application by WESSMAN DEVELOPMENT CO. for Halasi-Levinson
Associates for architectural approval of a detailed grading plan for a 104-
unit apartment complex (Casa Del Sol ) at Belardo Road/Morongo Road
intersection, R-3 Zone (IL) , Section 22.
John Wessman, 72200 Clancy Lane, Rancho Mirage, stated that he thought the
grading design was a minor problem.
Chairman explained that the item was continued by the Commission until a
transition is developed between the street and the first building pad.
Mr. Wessman explained that staff had a resolution to the problem which
would be to have a three-foot retaining wall at the lower point. He stated
that there had never been a sidewalk on the property and requested that the
condition be waived and that the City Engineer had said that there was no
problem in not having a sidewalk. He stated that the idea was to put
landscaping in instead.
Discussion continued at the display board.
Mr. Wessman remarked that he had a rough grading permit to level the site.
July 22, 1987 PC MINUTES Page 17
CASE 3.0010. (Continued)
Planning Director noted that the Director of Community Development has
given Mr. Wessman a storage permit for the fill dirt.
Chairman directed that the problems be resolved with staff since the
Commission does not want to approve the application until the grading
design is resolved.
Planning Director stated that sidewalks are a condition of approval .
Mr. Wessman noted that there were no serious feelings that sidewalks were
necessary because of the project's location, that he wanted to put in
landscaping and that the sidewalk issue needs coordination between
Engineering and Planning staffs.
Commission declined to reconsider the action.
MISCELLANEOUS ITEMS (Continued)
COMMISSION/STAFF REPORTS OR REQUESTS.
Commissioner Whitney stated that she felt uneasy in not addressing the
problems of the PIO warehouse office complex, since the applicant saw that
the Wessman project was discussed at length with Mr. Wessman. She stated
that it presented a community relations problem.
Commissioner Hough stated that the Wessman project was a problem that might
have been able to be resolved, but that the warehouse project has to have a
redesign.
Chairman agreed, stating that the Pio project was approval of the entire
project, whereas the Wessman project was only involved with details.
ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business to discuss, Chairman adjourned the
meeting at 3:50 p.m.
PLANKING DIRECTOV
MDR/ml
WP/PC MIN
PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES
Council Chamber, City Hall
August 12, 1987
1:30 p.m.
ROLL CALL F-Y 1987 - 1988
Present Present Excused Absences
Planning Commission This Meeting to Date to date
Larry Lapham, Chairman X 3 0
Hugh Curtis X 3 0
Martha Edgmon X 2 1
Brent Hough - 2 1
Earl Neel X 3 0
Gary Olsen X 3 0
Barbara Whitney X 3 0
Staff Present
Marvin D. Roos, Planning Director
Siegfried Siefkes, Assistant City Attorney
Douglas Evans, Planner
Robert Green, Planner
Richard Patenaude, Planner
Margo Williams, Planner
Carol Vankeeken, Planner
Dave Forcucci , Zoning Enforcement
Jerry Gonzalez, Traffic Engineer
• Ken Feenstra, Redevelopment Director
Mary E. Lawler, Recording Secretary
Architectural Advisory Committee - August 10, 1987
Chris Mills, Chairman Absent: Martha Edgmon, Alternate
Tom Doczi Mike Buccino
William Johnson Brent Hough
Will Kleindienst
Gary Olsen
Barbara Whitney
Chairman called the meeting to order at 1:30 p.m.
M/S/C (Neel/Olsen; Hough absent) approving minutes of July 22, 1987 as submitted.
ADMINISTRATIVE NOTE:
There were no Tribal Council comments.
•