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HomeMy WebLinkAbout1988/09/28 - MINUTES PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES Council Chamber, City Hall September 28, 1988 1:30 p.m. ROLL CALL F-Y 1988 - 1989 Present Present Excused Absences Planning Commission This Meeting to Date to Date Larry Lapham, Chairman X 5 1 Gary Olsen X 6 0 Barbara Whitney X 5 1 Brent Hough X 4 2 Martha Edgmon X 5 1 Chris Mills X 4 0 Mike Dotson X 3 0 Staff Present Marvin D. Roos , Planning Director Siegfried Siefkes, Assistant City Attorney Sherri Abbas, Planner Richard Patenaude, Planner Margo Williams, Planner Douglas Evans, Planner Dean Lewis, Traffic Engineer Mary E. Lawler, Recording Secretary Architectural Advisory Committee - September 26, 1988 Brent Hough, Chairman Absent: Mike Buccino William Johnson Will Kl ei ndi enst Tom Doczi Reuel Young Chairman called the meeting to order at 1:30 p.m. Minutes of September 14, 1988 will be approved at the October 12 meeting. REPORT OF POSTING AGENDA: The September 28, 1988 agenda was available for public access at the City Hall exterior bulletin board and the Planning Division Counter by 1:30 p.m., Friday, September 23. September 28, 1988 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 (Edgmon/Hough) taking the following actions: CASE 3.0279. Application by ANTHONY J. CANTELLA for architectural approval for landscape plans for a single-family residence at 1677 Hillview Cove, R-1-C Zone, Section 1. Restudy noting the following: 1. That the plans be colored. 2. That materials, size and quantities be provided in the legend. 3. That some organization be given to the tree plan and overall land- scape plan. ITEMS REMOVED FROM THE 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 3.0262 (Continued). Application by ALEXANDER COLER for architectural approval of revised elevations for single-family residence at Patencio �-* Road, O'Donnell Golf Course, R-1-A Zone, Section 15. Planner (Evans) stated that after several restudies changes have been made to the roof, the side elevations redrawn, and that the Commission was dead- locked 3-3 on the submittal at the September 14 meeting. He stated that the original roof was copper and flat. Al Coler, the applicant, stated that the elevations look flat but are not because the house has many facets and angles; that the house is compatible with the hillside area in contrast with the stark recent homes in the area; that the home is Spanish/Mediterranean in architecture (as are many other homes in Palm Springs) and is classic in appearance; and that the residence is on many acres of land unlike large homes in other areas on small acreage. He requested approval . Commissioner Olsen stated that although he had been outspoken against the house he felt that the rendering does not show the undulation of the house, that it is an asset to the hillside, and that he would support it. Commissioner Dotson asked if there had been any additional input from the AAC. Planning Director replied that the AAC had not reviewed the new plan, which had just been brought in. September 28, 1988 PC MINUTES Page 3 ITEMS REMOVED FROM CONSENT ACTION AGENDA (Continued) CASE 3.0262 (Continued) . (Continued) Commissioner Mills stated that he was not against any particular style but felt that the house does not integrate with the site; and that not being able to see it is no reason to approve it. Discussion continued on the AAC review. Planning Director stated that the applicant had not added the stairway recommended by the AAC. He stated that although the AAC minutes reflect the recommendation of the August 22 meeting for a restudy, the residence was recommended for approval subject to conditions at the September 12 AAC meeting. After discussion, Commissioner Whitney stated that her opinion had not changed, and that she would not vote in favor of the design. Commissioner Edgmon stated that she agreed that there is massiveness, but the building is not straight and that she would vote for it. Chairman explained that he felt that the elevations were acceptable; that the grading had taken place many years ago; and that the applicant is trying to fit the house onto the graded area. Commissioner Hough stated that the mountain and desert views bring people into Palm Springs and that the mountain should be treated differently from the valley floor; that the house would fit well on the valley floor, but not on the mountain; that he did not want to make an exception and approve the house just because it could not be seen; and that the design integra- tion with the site is better than it was, but that he was not comfortable with the house in its mountain location. M/S/C (Olsen/Edgmon; Mills/Hough/Whitney dissented) approving the applica- tion subject to the following conditions: 1. That preliminary landscape plans be submitted to the AAC for review. 2. That working drawings be submitted for AAC review. 3. That the inclusion of a stairway from the balcony to the garden be studied. 4. That all recommendations of the Development Committee be implemented. CASE 3.0398 (Continued). Application by MARK LIDDY for All That Glitters for architectural approval of awning at 142 S. Palm Canyon Drive, C-D-B Zone, Section 15. M/S/C (Olsen/Edgmon) continuing the application to October 12 at the applicant' s request. September 28, 1988 PC MINUTES Page 4 ITEMS REMOVED FROM CONSENT ACTION AGENDA (Continued) SIGN APPLICATION. Application by THE COUNTRY'S BEST YOGURT for architectural approval of two main identification sign at 121 S. Palm Canyon Drive, C-B-D Zone, Section 15. Zoning Enforcement Officer presented the application and discussion followed on a sign program for the center. Planning Director stated that the program is a loose one without dictation of lettering styles or colors but does require individual letters. Zoning Enforcement Officer stated that some letters are individual and some are in script style; and that the application is for channel letters with a plex face and light coming through the face. Commissioner Hough stated that the AAC vote was 2-2 and that the newest AAC member (Reuel Young) lead the opposition at the meeting because he did not agree with the structure of the letters, the integration with the existing letters, was not happy with the location, felt the sign should not be illuminated, and did not believe the current style reflects the architec- ture of the building. Zoning Enforcement Officer stated that this will be one of the first stores to stay open in the evenings and needs a lighted sign, and Planning Director stated that originally the signs were lighted from below at the roof line, but not are internally lighted. M/S/C (Hough/Olsen; Edgmon/Dotson dissented; Mills abstained) for approval of the sign subject to the following conditions: 1. That the letters be centered on both elevations and lineal in fashion. 2. That the cabinet be dark green to match the plastic face. PUBLIC HEARINGS CASE 5.0486-CZ. Application by PROFESSIONAL REAL ESTATE INVESTORS, INC. for a change of zone from R-G-A-8 to R-4 for 8+ acres of property located on the northeast corner of Avenida Caballeros and Amado Road, R-G-A(8) Zone (I .L.) , Section 14. (Commission response to written comments on draft Negative Declaration; no comments received; action. ) Recommendation: That the Commission order the filing of a negative declaration and approve subject to mitigation measures. Planner (Williams) gave the staff report stating that the zone change request is not accompanied by any development proposal , although the prop- erty has been partially developed under existing zoning standards as part September 28, 1988 PC MINUTES Page 5 PUBLIC HEARINGS (Continued) CASE 5.0486-CZ. (Continued) of the La Mancha private club; and that the request is submitted to allow the property to respond to new development in the area (the Convention Center and hotel ) . Chairman declared the hearing open . Jim Schlecht, attorney representing the applicant, 801 E. Tahquitz Way, stated that the applicant is not in a position to know what will be developed; that applicants have the ability to request a change of zone without a plan; that the development was discussed with the Bureau of Indian Affairs in conjunction with a prior dispute; and that part of the settlement is to develop to the maximum the zoning will allow. He stated that the area has taken on a different character with the recent develop- ment of the Convention Center and hotels , and it is time to move forward on the change of zone. There being no further appearances; Chairman declared the hearing closed. Planner stated that there are Tribal Council recommendations to support the zone change. Commissioner Olsen asked if the applicant had indicated the type of development. Planning Director stated that the general direction of the developer is to respond to the Convention Center and hotels in the area; that a high density project than originally envisioned may be developed; and that the applicant would not build a private villa type of operation with a hotel across the street. Ken Irwin, the applicant, stated that development options are being reviewed, but that the development would be of high quality. Planning Director, in response to question by Chairman and Commissioner Dotson, stated that the vacant land on the opposite corners is zoned R-4 and that a part of the land has been developed (La Mancha Sur) with private villas . Mr. Irwin stated, in response to Commission question, that the construction fences on the property are being removed. Planning Director stated in response to Commissioner Dotson's question, that he would have to research the density numbers. Chairman noted that it is difficult to speculate on density until a specific plan is submitted. Commissioner Mills commented that he did not ever think he would see an application to quadruple density that makes sense. Planning Director commented that the density probably will-notchange very much, but the finalization of the issue will remain to be seen. September 28, 1988 PC MINUTES Page 6 PUBLIC HEARINGS (Continued) CASE 5.0486-CZ. (Continued) Commissioner Whitney agreed and stated that she knows that the Commission will have to allow the zone change. Chairman commented that she would not have to vote for the change of zone. M/S/C (Olsen/Edgmon) approving CZ 5.0486 based on the following findings: Findings: 1. That the proposed change of zone from R-G-A (8) to R-4 is in conformance with the existing General Plan designation. 2. That the proposed zone change may have a detrimental effect upon the existing sewer system. A mitigation measure has been included to reduce any potential impacts based on the increased densities. 3. That the site is adequate in size and shape (8.5 acres) to accom- modate the allowable uses within the proposed zoning district. 4. That the site is served by Avenida Caballeros and Amado Road (a major and secondary thoroughfare respectively) , both of which are adequate in size to accommodate the amount of traffic generated by the pro- posed zoning district. 5. The development associated with the proposed zone change may �.- adversely impact adjacent land to the north, and that sensitive site design and development standards regulated through the Zoning Ordinance should mitigate any adverse impacts. TRIBAL COUNCIL COMMENTS The Tribal Council noted that the subject property was included in the General Plan Amendments/Zone Changes that occurred on various parcels of indian trust land in 1981. After consideration of the recommendations of the Indian Planning Commission, the Tribal Council took the following actions: 1. Concurred with the filing of a Negative Declaration. 2. Concurred with the findings contained in Planning Commission Staff Report dated September 28, 1988. 3. Approved the request Change of Zone from R-G-A(8) to R-4. CASE 6.364. Application by LAWRENCE KLINGE for a variance to allow a 5 ft. sideyard setback to accommodate a carport addition at 330 Via Colusa between Via Chico/Via Corta, R-1-B Zone, Section 11. (Commission response to written comments on draft Negative Declaration; no comments received; action.) ` September 28, 1988 PC MINUTES Page 7 PUBLIC HEARINGS (Continued) CASE 6..364. (Continued) Recommendation: That the Commission approve the application as submitted. Planner (Abbas) presented the case. Commissioner Mills asked if the carport could be located in the vacant area west of the house and not in the area encroaching into the setback. Planner described the shape of the property, showed the pool , fountains, and gardens, and stated that the existing improvements force the carport to be in the paved area location chosen. She showed the driveway on the site plan; and stated that she did not know how the applicants parked their cars after they drove in; and that the house cannot be seen from the street. M/S/C (Edgmon/Hough; Mills dissented) approving the application based on the following findings: Findings 1. That because of the special circumstances applicable to the subject property, namely the irregular configuration of the parcel , the strict application of the Zoning Ordinance would deprive the subject property of privileges enjoyed by other properties in the vicinity. 2. That the variance does not constitute a special privilege in that other properties under similar circumstances would be given similar •.� consideration. 3. That the granting of the variance will not be materially detrimental to the public health, safety, convenience or welfare or injurious to property in the same vicinity or zone. 4. That the granting of the variance will not adversely affect the General Plan for the City. Conditions: 1. That a lot line adjustment be completed to consolidate the two parcels. 2. That architectural approval and building permits be secured for all exterior changes. September 28, 1988 PC MINUTES Page 8 PUBLIC HEARINGS (Continued) CASE 6.365. Application by CHRISTIAN ASSOCIATES for a variance for a carport construction within the sideyard setback at 235 Overlook Road, R-1-C Zone, Section 27. (This action is categorically exempt from Environmental Assessment per CEQA guidelines; action.) Recommendation: That the Commission approve the application subject to conditions: Planner (Williams) presented the case, stating that the carport was built without permits and the present owner applied for a variance to retain it; that the access to the property is by easement; that another residence is on the north side separated by a retaining wall and landscaping, and that the access street is on the east side. In reply to Commissioner Whitney' s question, Planner answered that "as built" building permits are required for the jacuzzi , mechanical equipment, carport, and window changes. Chairman declared the hearing open, there being no appearances, the hearing was closed. Chairman stated that the variance application, if approved, would legalize improvements which occurred 15 years ago. M/S/C (Whitney/Mills) approving variance 6.365 based on the following findings and subject to the following conditions: `�..� Findings 1. That the special circumstances applicable to the site are the shape and topography. It is an irregularly shaped lot and is lower in elevation than the surrounding properties . The strict application of the Zoning Ordinance could deprive the property of privileges enjoyed by other properties in the vicinity. 2. That granting of the variance is subject to such conditions as will assure that the adjustment does not grant a special privilege. 3. That granting of the variance will not adversely affect the public health, safety or welfare. 4. That granting of the variance is not in conflict with the goals or objectives of the General Plan. Conditions• 1. That a lot line adjustment be completed to consolidate the two parcels. 2. That architectural approval and building permits be secured for all exterior changes . September 28, 1988 PC MINUTES Page 9 PUBLIC COMMENTS - Three Minute Time Limit ITEMS REMOVED FROM CONSENT ACTION AGENDA (Continued) Approval of architectural cases is valid for two years. The approval granted must be exercised within that time period unless extended. CASE 3.0447. Application by DOROTHY COHN for architectural approval of entry awning at the African Queen restaurant, 2665 E. Palm Canyon Drive, PD-107 Zone, Section 25. Planning Director stated that staff is working with the applicant on the awning and recommends removing the item from the agenda. M/S/C (Whitney/Dotson; Hough abstained) removing the application from the agenda pending receipt of revised plans. CASE 5.0344. Application by PALM SPRINGS CONVENTION CENTER for architectural approval of freestanding marquee sign located on Avenida Caballeros, PD-164 (I.L.) , Section 14. Planning Director explained that the Convention. Center Director is out of town and wishes to be present to present the marquee plans. M/S/C (Olsen/Hough) continuing the application to October 12. MISCELLANEOUS ITEMS TIME EXTENSION. Request by KWL ASSOCIATES for 12-month time extension for Tentative Tract Map 18087 on Bogert Trail to subdivide property for lot sales, W-R-1-B Zone, Section 35. Planner (Abbas) stated that the map is located where Bogert Trail enters the wash, was originally approved in 1985; and the application is the second of three time extensions allowed. Planning Director explained that two lots were removed from the map at the direction of the Council , and the map has been sold to an investment group from Chicago. He stated, in reply to Commission question, and that Phase I is actually no phase since the lots have been deleted; and that Phase I and II are across the wash. M/S/C (Olsen/Edgmon) approving a time extension of twelve months for TTM 18087. The new expiration date is September 4, 1989. LAND USE PERMIT (LUP) - AUCTION. Request by PRINCESS FURS to allow an auction of furs at the Gene Autry Hotel on December 10 and 11, 1988. September 28, 1988 PC MINUTES Page 10 MISCELLANEOUS ITEMS (Continued) Planning Director explained that the revisions to the ordinance allow public space to be used for auctions subject to a land use permit; and that there would be no outside signing allowed unless the hotel has a reader board. M/S/C (Whitney/Mills) approving a land use permit for an auction of furs at the Gene Autry Hotel . ITEMS REMOVED FROM 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 3.0451 (MINOR). Application by SIZZLER RESTAURANT for architectural approval of paint colors for building at 725 S. Palm Canyon Drive, W-C-2 Zone, Section 23. Planning Director explained that the Sizzler repainted its roof (without approval ) in a Santa Fe green. Chairman commented that all the roofs in the center should be painted like the Sizzler. Planning Director replied that as the center is renovated, painting may occur, although the paint shows up the roof's imperfections. M/S/C (Olsen/Whitney) approving the paint colors as submitted. CASE 3.375 (Continued). Application by RIVERSIDE COUNTY FLOOD CONTROL DISTRICT architectural review of landscape and flood control plans for Tahquitz flood control improvements. M/S/C (Olsen/Hough) continuing the application to October 12. TRIBAL COUNCIL COMMENTS This case was considered by the Tribal Council at its meeting of July 12, 1988. It was noted that the landscaping of areas that will be disturbed by the construction of the Tahquitz Creek debris basin, channel improvements , etc. , is a very important element of the total development that will be occurring on the Tahquitz Cone. After consideration of the recommendations of the Indian Planning Commission, the Tribal Council requested that these landscape plans also be reviewed by the Committee formed by the Tribal Council to coordinate the design and construction of the Interpretative Center, and to the Planning Consultant previously selected by the Tribal Council and the City of Palm Springs to prepare a site plan for the facilities proposed to be constructed on the Tahquitz Cone. September 28, 1988 PC MINUTES Page 11 MISCELLANEOUS ITEMS (Continued) CITY COUNCIL ACTIONS. Update of City Council actions. Case 3.0428 (Compri Hotel ). Council appealed Commission approval of the Compri Hote stating tat the overall quality of the design, site plan, and architecture is not up 'to Council desires for the corner and noted concerns on the flatness of the building line, the site plan with parking toward Tahquitz, and window air conditioning units (even with grills) indicative of a lower quality project. He stated that the design review process is not used to determine operation or rates but in this case the design process may affect the operations and rates, and that the Council felt that the hotel resembled a motel which should be located on the out- skirts of the City. He stated that the applicants will change their architecture but that the hotel is a businessman' s hotel type of use and will remain a Compri Hotel . Chairman stated all the development along Tahquitz should be superior, and that Compri should spend the money to make the hotel a high quality one. Discussion ensued on development of an overlay for areas which should have high quality design with consideration of a grading system for architectural qualities. Commissioner Hough stated that the best way is for everyone to know what is expected, not to have a point system. Planning Director stated that a draft guideline for architecture is being developed; that he had misgivings about quality through architecture �..� approval alone; and that the subject hotel is on Indian land which makes it more difficult. Chairman noted that all of Section 14 development should be of high quality, even though it is Indian land since it is the last major develop- able section in the City. Planning Director stated that a question might be raised whether or not a businessman's hotel is an acceptable land use at the subject corner. Commissioner Mills replied that if enough time is taken from the graphic standpoint and flexibility given by the franchisor, a good design can be obtained. Planning Director agreed, stating that the Seven Springs Hotel , Jeremiahs and Carrows complex is of high design quality. Chairman stated that the Compri applicants can achieve the same results and that the Sharona Travel Lodge is a good looking hotel . Planning Director agreed, stating that the Travel Lodge owners are excited about the appearance and use the Sharona in their advertisements. September 28, 1988 PC MINUTES Page 12 MISCELLANEOUS ITEMS (Continued) COMMISSION/STAFF REPORTS OR REQUESTS. Case 5.0449 (Crowe, Hotel ). Commission will be updated on status at the meeting of October 12. Regular Study Session. Study session to be held October 19, 3-5 p.m. , Large Conference Room, City Hall . Agenda items will be small hotel conversion to apartments, the gallery district, zoning regulations, General Plan work program, and Main Street recommendations for the downtown. - Historic Area Ordinance. Las Palmas and the Movie Colony portions of the amendment are finished as a draft and will be reviewed by the Historic Site Preservation Board first. The Araby and Mesa areas portion may be written next since modifications to hillsides are subject to architectural review while homes in the flat areas are more difficult to modify. Main Street will address the downtown as part of its process. Chairman stated that the old subdivisions were developed before Cityhood and that remodeling causes problems and to give flexibility, an overlay is being prepared. - Concerns of Issues in Staff Reports. Commissioner Whitney stated that she was concerned about issues in the zone change. Planning Director stated that any issues that a Commissioner wants to address should be noted and a report will be given by staff. Commissioner Whitney explained that in the subject zone change there is an increase of everything - traffic, people, emissions , sewerage, etc. Planning Director stated that staff does not recommend density increases except for affordable housing, and that Section 14 is a problem because of the Indian rezoning which increased density. Larger Color and Material Design Boards. Commissioner Whitney requested that presentations be of a size for easy viewing. Main Street. Commissioner Whitney stated that the Commission should be involved in goals and objectives of Main Street and direction given to Main Street by the Council and Commission. Planning Director stated that the Commission and AAC have been invited to Main Street, but with a few exceptions do not come to the meetings. He stated that input is needed from the Commission and AAC, and that the members of Main Street developed their own guidelines, one of which is a Mediterranean theme for the downtown. He stated that staff suggested southwestern architecture rather than totally Mediterranean architecture, and that several neighborhood meetings will be held in the future for Commission and AAC input. Planning Director stated that the sign applications can be increased in size if the Commission desires. Commissioner Dotson agreed that presentations should be easy to read. Planning Director stated that the plans on the board have been raised for easier viewing. He stated also that a survey of citizens will be undertaken to determine what the people want downtown, which will help to update policy documents of the city; and that discussion of this issue will be on the October 19 regular study session from 3 to 5 p.m. in the September 28, 1988 PC MINUTES Page 13 MISCELLANEOUS ITEMS (Continued) COMMISSION/STAFF REPORTS OR REQUESTS. Large Conference Room at City Hall . He stated that Main Street began after meetings of Palm Springs NOW (downtown property owners) , the merchants and the City. APA Convention, 1988. Will be held in Palm Springs, October 23 to 26. Staff and Commissioners Edgmon, Dotson and Whitney will attend. Business Cards. Commissioner Dotson requested business cards for the Commissioners who want them. LUP. In reply to Commission question, Planning Director stated that LUP's can be conditioned. Historical Residential Sites. The term does not indicate individual residences, but overlays of certain areas (for example, Las Palmas) . ADDED STARTERS. (Determination of eligibility for consideration.) None. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business to discuss , Chairman adjourned the meeting at 3:15 p.m. PLANNING DIRECTOR MDR/ml d✓ PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES Council Chamber, City Hall October 12, 1988 1:30 p.m. ROLL CALL F-Y 1988 - 1989 Present Present Excused Absences Planning Commission This Meeting to Date to Date Larry Lapham, Chairman X 6 1 Gary Olsen X 7 0 Barbara Whitney - 5 2 Brent Hough X 5 2 Martha Edgmon X 6 1 Chris Mills X 5 0 Michael Dotson X 4 0 Staff Present Marvin D. Roos , Planning Director Siegfried Siefkes, Assistant City Attorney Sherri Abbas , Planner Richard Patenaude, Planner Margo Williams , Planner Douglas Evans, Planner Dave Forcucci , Zoning Enforcement Robert Harris, Zoning Enforcement Ken Feenstra, Redevelopment Director Dean Lewis, Traffic Engineer Mary E. Lawler, Recording Secretary • Architectural Advisory Committee - October 10, 1988 Brent Hough, Chairman William Johnson Will Kleindienst Tom Doczi Reuel Young Mike Buccino Chairman called the meeting to order at 1 :30 p.m. M/S/C (Olsen/Edgmon; Whitney absent) approving minutes of September 14, 1988 as submitted. M/S/C (Hough/Mills; Whitney absent) approving minutes of September 28, 1988 as submitted. REPORT OF POSTING AGENDA: The October 12, 1988 agenda was available for public access at the City Hall exterior bulletin board and the Planning Division Counter by 1 :30 p.m., Friday, • October 7.