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DATE: February 20, 2008 PUBLIC HEARING
SUBJECT: CASE NO. 5.1080 CUP 1 6.492 VAR — SPRINT NEXTEL FOR A
CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT TO CONSTRUCT A FOURTY-FOUR FOOT
HIGH WIRELESS COMMERCIAL COMMUNICATION ANTENNA
DESIGNED AS A MONOPOLE AND A VARIANCE REQUEST TO
EXCEED THE MAXIMUM ANTENNA HEIGHT OF FIFTEEN FEET
LOCATED AT 505 EAST INDUSTRIAL PLACE.
FROM: David H. Ready, City Manager
BY: Department of Planning Services
SUMMARY
The City Council will consider a proposed forty-four foot high wireless communication
antenna designed as a slim-line monopole. The project is also seeking approval of a
Variance to Section 93.08.03(A)(1)(c)(B) of the Palm Springs Zoning Code to exceed
the maximum antenna height of fifteen feet to the requested forty-four feet. The
application includes four equipment cabinets and a seven foot high block screening
wall. Staff has noticed this meeting for a public hearing.
RECOMMENDATION:
1. Open the public hearing and receive public testimony.
2. Adopt Resolution No. _ "A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF PALM SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA, APPROVING CONDITIONAL USE
PERMIT 5.1080 TO INSTALL A FORTY-FOUR FOOT HIGH WIRELESS
COMMUNICATION ANTENNA DESIGNED AS A MONOPALM AND A
VARIANCE TO EXCEED THE 15 FOOT MAXIMUM ANTENNA HEIGHT
LOCATED AT 505 EAST INDUSTRIAL PLACE."
Item 1 . 13 .
City Council Staff Report
February 20, 2008—Page 2
5.1080 CUP—Sprint Nextel
PRIOR ACTIONS:
On July 24, 2006, and July 9, 2007, the Architectural Advisory Committee (AAC)
reviewed the proposed antenna designs and recommended a restudy for an alternative
design. The designs proposed were a Mexican Fan Palm and a roof-top mounted unit.
On September 10, 2007, the AAC reviewed the proposed monopole and by a vote of 7-
0 recommended approval of the project to the Planning Commission.
On January 23, 2008 the project was reviewed by the Planning Commission and
recommended approval to the City Council by a vote of 5-0-2 (Caffery and Cohen
absent).
STAFF ANALYSIS:
The project consists of a Type II Conditional Use Permit (CUP) application to
conditionally establish the use of a wireless communication antenna with the necessary
findings, pursuant to Section 94.02.00 of the Palm Springs Zoning Code (PSZC), and a
Variance application to allow the antenna to exceed the maximum antenna height of
fifteen feet to the requested forty-four feet. The proposed project would be located at
505 East Industrial Place.
A more detailed analysis is provided in the attached Planning Commission Staff Report
dated January 23, 2008. Findings in support of approving the proposed project are
included in the attached draft resolution of approval.
FISCAL IMPACT:
There is no cost to the City associated with the construction of the proposed wireless
communications facility.
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Di or of Plan,m Services Assistant City Manager
David H. Ready,
City Manager
Attachments:
1. Vicinity Map
2. Draft Resolution and Conditions of Approval
3. Site Plan and Elevations
4. Planning Commission staff report dated January 23, 2008
5. Planning Commission draft minutes dated January 23, 2008 (excerpt)
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CITY OF PALM SPRINGS
CASE NO: 5.1080 CUP DESCRIPTION: To consider an application by Sprint
6.492 VARIANCE Nextel for a Conditional Use Permit to install a forty-
two foot tall commercial communication antenna
APPLICANT: Sprint Nextel designed as a monopalm with equipment cabinets and
a Variance to exceed the fifteen feet antenna height
maximum at 505 East Industrial Place, zoned C-M.
APN:508-162-009.
00006
RESOLUTION NO.
OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PALM
SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA, APPROVING CONDITIONAL
USE PERMIT 5.1080 TO INSTALL A FORTY-FOUR FOOT
HIGH WIRELESS COMMUNICATION ANTENNA
DESIGNED AS A MONOPOLE AND A VARIANCE TO
EXCEED THE 15 FOOT ANTENNA HEIGHT MAXIMUM
LOCATED AT 505 EAST INDUSTRIAL PLACE.
WHEREAS, Sprint Nextel ("Applicant") has filed an application with the City pursuant to
Section 94.02.00 of the Palm Springs Zoning Code (PSZC) for the installation of a
commercial communications antenna on a forty-four foot high slim-line monopole and
an application pursuant to Section 94.06.00 of the PSZC to exceed the fifteen foot
antenna height maximum located at 505 East Industrial Place, C-M Zone, Section 23;
and
WHEREAS, notice of public hearing of the Planning Commission of the City of Palm
Springs to consider the application for Conditional Use Permit 5.1080 and Variance
6.492 was given in accordance with applicable law; and
WHEREAS, on January 23, 2008, a public hearing on the application for Conditional
Use Permit 5.1080 and Variance 6.402 was held by the Planning Commission in
accordance with applicable law; and
WHEREAS, on January 23, 2008, the Planning Commission recommended approval of
Conditional Use Permit 5.1080 and Variance 6.492 to the City Council; and
WHEREAS, notice of public hearing of the City Council of the City of Palm Springs to
consider the application for Conditional Use Permit 5.1080 and Variance 6.492 was
given in accordance with applicable law; and
WHEREAS, on February 20, 2008, a public hearing on the application for Conditional
Use Permit 5.1080 and Variance 6.492 was held by the City Council in accordance with
applicable law; and
WHEREAS, the proposed Conditional Use Permit is categorically exempt from the
provisions of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to Section
15332 (Class 32 — In-Fill Development) of the California Environmental Quality Act
(CEQA); and
WHEREAS, the City Council has carefully reviewed and considered all of the evidence
presented in connection with the hearing on the project, including, but not limited to, the
staff report, and all written and oral testimony presented.
00000�
Resolution No.
Page 2
THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PALM SPRINGS DOES HEREBY RESOLVE
AS FOLLOWS:
Section 1. The City Council finds that this Conditional Use Permit is Categorically
Exempt from environmental review pursuant to Section 15332 (Class 32 — In-Fill
Development) of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA).
Section 2. State law requires four (4) findings be made for the granting of a variance.
Pursuant to the procedure set forth in Section 94.06.01 of the Zoning Code, the City
Council finds as follows:
1. Because of the special circumstances applicable to the subject property,
including size, shape, topography, location or surroundings, the strict
application of the Zoning Code would deprive subject property of
privileges enjoyed by other properties in the vicinity and under identical
zone classification.
The subject property is developed with buildings that exceed heights of
twenty-five feet to the north, east and west, and an antenna height of
fifteen feet will not allow the cellular provider to supply its users with
adequate coverage. The study provided by the applicant, as required in
Section 93.08.03(B) of the Palm Springs Zoning Code, indicates that a
fifteen foot antenna will not satisfy the necessary coverage due to
inhibiting factors. These factors include terrain variations, foliage and
man-made structures in the vicinity and under identical zone classification.
2. Any variance granted shall be subject to such conditions as will assure
that the adjustment thereby authorized shall not constitute a grant of
special privilege inconsistent with the limitations upon other properties in
the vicinity and zone in which subject property is situated.
A similar antenna of fifty-five feet tall was granted for another provider at a
property located at 495 East Sunny Dunes Road. The site is within the
same vicinity and zoning designation as the proposed facility. Many of the
conditions of approval are similar to those required by this applicant.
Therefore, the approval of this Variance would not constitute a grant of
special privilege that is inconsistent with the limitations placed upon other
providers in the vicinity and zoning designation.
3. The granting of the variance will not be materially detrimental to the pubic
health, safety, convenience, or welfare or injurious to property and
improvements in the same vicinity and zone in which subject property is
situated.
000005
Resolution No.
Page 3
The increase in antenna height above the fifteen foot maximum has been
shown by another provider within the vicinity to not be materially
detrimental to the public health, safety or welfare, or injurious to property
in the vicinity. All other development standards are met by this proposal.
4. The granting of such variance will not adversely affect the general plan of
the city.
The proposed project has been analyzed against the policies of the
General Plan and no inconsistencies have been found.
Pursuant to Section 93.08.03(B) of the PSZC, in cases involving applications for
height limit variances, no such variance shall be granted unless the director
makes make the following finding in addition to those required above:
5. That in the area involved, transmission or reception is adversely affected
by obstructions and, as verified by at least one (1) person holding a valid
radio-telephone first-class operator's license issued by the Federal
Communications Commission, it is not feasible to achieve and maintain
satisfactory communications within the specified height limitations.
The applicant (Sprint Nextel) provided a study that shows that the height
limit of fifteen feet will not provide the necessary coverage objectives. A
Federal Communications Commission licensed radio frequency engineer
provided diagrams that show the top of the antenna at a height of fifteen
feet compared to forty-four feet. The forty-four foot high antenna would
provide more than double the amount of geographical coverage than that
of a fifteen foot high antenna at the subject site. The maximum height of
fifteen feet does not appear to achieve and maintain satisfactory
communications with the specified height limitations.
Section 3. Pursuant to Zoning Ordinance Section 94.02.00, the City Council finds that:
1. The use applied for at the location set forth in the application is
properly one for which a conditional use permit is authorized by the
City Zoning Ordinance.
Pursuant to Section 94.02.00(A)(2)(f) of the Palm Springs Zoning
Ordinance, a commercial communications antenna is authorized within
the C-M Zone with the approval of a Type II Conditional Use Permit.
2. The use applied for is necessary or 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
000006
Resolution No.
Page 4
uses specifically permitted in the zone in which the proposed use is to
be located.
The development of adequate cellular phone levels of services serves
the ultimate benefit of the community. The antenna will be located
within 600 feet of another monopole and in a commercial-industrial
area, which is an acceptable environment for the location of wireless
communication antennas. The antennas will be entirely concealed
within the monopole. The proposal is unlikely to be detrimental to
existing or future uses permitted within the zone.
3. The site for the intended use is adequate in size and shape to
accommodate said use, including yards, setbacks, walls or fences,
landscaping and other features required in order to adjust said use to
those existing or permitted future uses of the land in the neighborhood.
The proposed communication antenna is located in a parking lot that
will be required to meet the current Zoning Code with the construction
of the monopole in order to adjust said use to the existing and
permitted future uses of the land. Landscaping will be added to soften
the appearance of the equipment wall.
4. The site for the proposed use related to streets and highways is
properly designed and improved to carry the type and quantity of traffic
to be generated by the proposed use.
The only traffic generated to and from the site will be for servicing the
antenna and equipment; the existing infrastructure is anticipated to
accommodate the traffic necessary for the maintenance of the facility.
5. The conditions to be imposed and shown an the approved site plan are
deemed necessary to protect the public health, safety and general
welfare, including any minor modifications of the zone's property
development standards.
The project is unlikely to have a significant impact on the proposed
project site or its surroundings. Conditions to ensure the protection of
public health, safety and general welfare are required to be fulfilled by
the applicant for approval and will include, but are not limited to,
removal of antenna upon use-change or abandonment of the subject
property and compliance with all Federal Airport Administration
requirements.
aaaa � �
Resolution No.
Page 5
Section 4. The City Council approves Conditional Use Permit Case No. 5.1080 and
Variance Case No. 6.492, subject to those conditions set forth in Exhibit A, which
are to be satisfied unless otherwise specified.
ADOPTED this 20th day of February, 2008.
David H. Ready, City Manager
ATTEST:
James Thompson, City Clerk
CERTIFICATION
STATE OF CALIFORNIA )
COUNTY OF RIVERSIDE ) ss.
CITY OF PALM SPRINGS )
I, JAMES THOMPSON, City Clerk of the City of Palm Springs, hereby certify that
Resolution No. _ is a full, true and correct copy, and was duly adopted at a
regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Palm Springs on
by the following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
James Thompson, City Clerk
City of Palm Springs, California
000OG6
Resolution No.
Page 6
EXHIBIT A
CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT 5.1080
VARIANCE 6.492
SPRINT NEXTEL
505 EAST INDUSTRIAL PLACE
FEBRUARY 20, 2008
CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL
Before final acceptance of the project, all conditions listed below shall be completed to
the satisfaction of the City Engineer, the Director of Planning, the Chief of Police, the
Fire Chief or their designee, depending on which department recommended the
condition.
Any agreements, easements or covenants required to be entered into shall be in a
form approved by the City Attorney.
1. Prior to issuance of building permit, the applicant shall submit a re-paving and re-
striping plan for the parking lot to the Department of Planning Services for review
and approval. The plan shall be consistent with Section 93.06.00 of the Palm
Springs Zoning Code to the satisfaction of the Director of Planning Services. The
parking lot shall be re-paved and re-stripped prior to issuance of Certificate of
Occupancy.
2. The proposed development of the premises shall conform to all applicable
regulations of the Palm Springs Zoning Ordinance, Municipal Code, or any other
City Codes, ordinances and resolutions which supplement the zoning district
regulations.
2a.The owner shall defend, indemnify, and hold harmless the City of Palm Springs, its
agents, officers, and employees from any claim, action, or proceeding against the
City of Palm Springs or its agents, officers or employees to attach, set aside, void
or annul, an approval of the City of Palm Springs, its legislative body, advisory
agencies, or administrative officers concerning Case 5.1080 -- CUP and 6.492 —
VAR. The City of Palm Springs will promptly notify the applicant of any such claim,
action, or proceeding against the City of Palm Springs and the applicant will either
undertake defense of the matter and pay the City's associated legal costs or will
advance funds to pay for defense of the matter by the City Attorney. If the City of
Palm Springs fails to promptly notify the applicant of any such claim, action or
proceeding or fails to cooperate fully in the defense, the applicant shall not,
thereafter, be responsible to defend, indemnify, or hold harmless the City of Palm
0000G,3
Resolution No.
Page 7
Springs. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the City retains the right to settle or
abandon the matter without the applicant's consent but should it do so, the City
shall waive the indemnification herein, except, the City's decision to settle or
abandon a matter following an adverse judgment or failure to appeal, shall not
cause a waiver of the indemnification rights herein.
3. Commencement of use or construction under this Conditional Use Permit shall
be within two (2) years from the effective date of approval. Extensions of time
may be granted by the Planning Commission upon demonstration of good cause-
4- The antennas shall be completely concealed within the monopole.
5. If the communications antennae, monopole, monopole or equipment are ever
proposed to be modified in any manner such as the inclusion of other antennae,
satellite dishes and/or other support equipment, the proposed modifications shall
be submitted to the Director of Planning Services for review and approval prior to
installation.
6. If the technology regarding the communications antennae changes in where the
antennae and/or equipment building as approved become obsolete, then the
antennae shall be removed.
7. If the use of the subject property is ever changed, the City reserves the right to
modify or revoke this Conditional Use Permit application.
8. The maximum height of the commercial communication antenna shall be forty-
four feet (44'), as indicated on the conceptually approved plans, as measured
from finished grade to the highest point of the palm fronds.
9. If the antenna is ever abandoned or if this Conditional Use Permit ever expires,
the antennae, pole, and equipment shelter shall be removed within 30 days.
10.Manufacturer's cut sheets of the proposed antennae shall be submitted to the
Director of Planning Services prior to the issuance of permits for installation of
the commercial communications antennae.
11.This project shall be subject to Chapters 224 and 3.37 of the Municipal Code
regarding public art. The project shall either provide public art or payment of an in
lieu fee. In the case of the in-lieu fee, the fee shall be based upon the total
building permit valuation as calculated pursuant to the valuation table in the
Uniform Building Code, the fee being 1/2% for commercial projects or 1/4% for
residential projects with first $100,000 of total building permit valuation for
individual single-family units exempt. Should the public art be located on the
project site, said location shall be reviewed and approved by the Director of
000010
Resolution No.
Page 8
Planning Services and the Public Arts Commission, and the property owner shall
enter into a recorded agreement to maintain the art work and protect the public
rights of access and viewing.
12.The applicant shall comply with the requirements of the Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA). Proof of compliance shall be provided to the Director of
Aviation to the Director of Planning Services prior to the issuance of building
permits. The applicant needs to file a 7460 for with the FAA for an obstruction of
airspace review to determine any frequency interference with the Air Traffic
Control Tower.
13.The City may require one obstruction light on the tallest point of the structure
extending 12" - 24" above the highest point of the tower as deemed necessary by
the Director of Aviation and the Director of Planning Services.
14.The applicant/operator of the facility shall agree to allow the co-location of
equipment of other wireless communications providers at this site when
applications are received by the City and it is considered feasible, subject to an
agreement between the applicant/operator, the other proposed wireless
communications provider, and the property owner.
15.Concrete walks with a minimum width of two (2) feet shall be installed adjacent to
end parking spaces as required by Section 93.06.00(E)(6) of the Palm Springs
Zoning Code.
POLICE DEPARTMENT
16.Developer shall comply with Section 11 of Chapter 8.04 of the Palm Springs
Municipal Code.
BUILDING DEPARTMENT
17.Prior to any construction on-site, all appropriate permits must be secured.
FIRE DEPARTMENT
18.Premises Identification: Approved numbers or addresses shall be provided for all
new and existing buildings in such a position as to be plainly visible and legible
from the street or road fronting the property. (901.4.4 CFC) Numbers shall be a
minimum 4 inches, and of contrasting color to the background.
19.Fire Extinguisher Requirements: As determined necessary by the Chief of Fire,
provide one 2-A:10-B:C portable fire extinguisher for every 75 feet of floor or
grade travel distance for normal hazards. (1002.1 CFC) Extinguishers shall be
OHM
Resolution No.
Page 9
mounted in a visible, accessible location 3 to 5 feet above floor level. Preferred
location is along the path of exit travel or near an exit door. Extinguishers located
outdoors must be installed in weather and vandal resistant cabinets approved for
this purpose.
20.Emergency Key Box: Knox key box(es) are required. Box(es) shall be mounted at
6 feet above grade. Show location of box(es) on plan elevation views. Show
requirement in plan notes. Contact the Fire Department at 760-323-8186 for a
Knox application form. (902.4 CFC)
ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT
None
END OF CONDITIONS
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PLANNING COMMISSION STAFF REPORT
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Date: January 23, 2008
Case No.: 5.1080 — CUP 16492 --VAR
Type: Conditional Use Permit and Variance
Location: 505 Industrial Place
APN: 508-162-009
Applicant: Sprint Nextel
General Plan: Mixed Use / Multi-Use
Zone: C-M (Commercial Manufacturing)
From: Craig A. Ewing, AICP, Director of Planning Services
Project Planner: David A. Newell, Assistant Planner
PROJECT DESCRIPTION:
The application is a request by Sprint Nextel, authorized agent for Michael W. Rice
(owner), for a Conditional Use Permit for the installation of a forty-four foot high wireless
communication antenna designed as a slim-line monopole and a Variance request to
exceed the maximum antenna height of fifteen feet. The request includes four
equipment cabinets and a seven-foot high block wall for screening purposes located at
505 East Industrial Place.
RECOMMENDATION:
That the Planning Commission recommends approval of the Conditional Use Permit
and Variance to the City Council for the installation of a forty-four foot tall commercial
communication monopole located at 505 East Industrial Place.
Planning Commission Staff Report January 23, 2008
Case 5.1080—CUP/6.492 —VAR Page 2 of 7
PRIOR ACTIONS:
On July 24, 2006, and July 9, 2007, the Architectural Advisory Committee (AAC)
reviewed the proposed antenna designs and recommended a restudy for an alternative
design. The designs proposed were a Mexican Fan Palm and a roof-top mounted unit.
On September 10, 2007, the AAC reviewed the proposed monopole and by a vote of 7-
0 recommended approval of the project to the Planning Commission.
BACKGROUND:
Sprint Nextel ("the applicant") has submitted an application for a Type II Conditional Use
Permit for the operation of a wireless facility within a lease area of approximately 421
square feet. The applicant has secured a Letter of Authorization from the property
owner to proceed with the Type II Conditional Use Permit application.
The project site is a flat deteriorated parking lot, located along the south side of East
Industrial Place. The parking lot serves the existing commercial-industrial building to
the west. The wireless facility is proposed to be located towards the west side of the
parking lot. The nearest wireless facility to the site is operated by T-Mobile — a fifty-five
foot high slim-line monopole at 490 East Sunny Dunes Road (Builder's Supply) —
approximately 600 feet away.
The proposed wireless communication antenna, which is designed as a monopole will
include the placement of four mechanical equipment cabinets. The equipment cabinets
will be surrounded by a seven foot high block wall for screening purposes.
Table 1: Adjacent General Plan Designations, Zones and Land Uses
General Plan Zoning Existing Land Uses
North Mixed Use / Multi-Use C-M Industrial
South Mixed Use / Multi-Use W Wash
East Mixed Use / Multi-Use C-M Industrial
West Mixed Use / Multi-Use C-M Industrial
ANALYSIS:
The General Plan designation of the subject site is Mixed Use / Multi-Use. While the
General Plan does not specifically regulate the installation and operation of wireless
communication facilities, staff believes the use as proposed is compatible with this
designation. The zoning designation is C-M (Commercial Manufacturing); the use is
Planning Commission Staff Report January 23, 2008
Case 5.1080—CUP/6.492—VAR Page 3 of 7
permitted with the approval of a Type II Conditional Use Permit, pursuant to Section
93.08 and 94.02 of the Palm Springs Zoning Code (PSZC).
Table 2: Antenna development standards:
93.08.03(A)(1)(c)(B) "Antennas" and Proposed Project
92.15.03 "C-M Zone" Requirements (approx.)
Height 15 feet 44 feet
Front Yard Setback None ` 38 feet
Side Yard Setback None 3 feet and 93 feet
Rear Yard Setback None 37 feet
Parking
The proposed antenna and equipment cabinets will occupy approximately three parking
spaces in the parking lot. Due to the project's location within the parking lot, the
applicant will be required to install a curb five feet from the face of the new wall. Staff is
recommending Condition of Approval No. 1 to satisfy this requirement of the PSZC.
The square footage of the building that the parking area serves is approximately 13,000
square feet. Pursuant to Section 93.06.00(D)(17) of the PSZC, one space for every five
hundred square feet of gross leasable floor area requires a total of 26 parking spaces_
The site's parking lot does not have delineated parking stalls and the pavement is
depleted; therefore, staff is recommending Condition of Approval No. 2 to require that
the applicant submit a re-paving and re-striping plan for the parking lot to the Director of
Planning Services for review and approval, prior to installation of the antenna.
Antenna Height
Pursuant to Section 93.08.03(A)(2)(c)(ii) of the PSZC, the height and placement
limitations of communication antennas within Commercial and Professional Zones is
required to comply with the provisions governing broadcast receiving antennas or
Section 93.08.03(A)(1)(c)(B) of the PSZC, which states... "If the antenna is not mounted
on the building, no part of the antenna structure shall extend to a height of more than
fifteen (15) feet above the ground level nor shall it be located within any required yard."
The proposal is for a ground-mounted antenna with a height of forty-four feet; therefore,
the applicant has requested a Variance to this Section of the PSZC. Findings in support
of the proposed forty-four foot high antenna are found below.
REQUIRED FINDINGS:
Variance
Pursuant to the procedure set forth in Section 94.06.01 of the Zoning Code, the Director
of Planning Services may grant variances to Section 93.08.03 of the PSZC. State law
000018
Planning Commission Staff Report January 23, 2008
Case 5.1080—CUP/6.492--VAR Page 4 of 7
requires four (4) findings be made for the granting of a variance application. Staff has
analyzed the findings in order below:
1) Because of the special circumstances applicable to the subject property, including
size, shape, topography, location or surroundings, the strict application of the
Zoning Code would deprive subject property of privileges enjoyed by other
properties in the vicinity and under identical zone classification.
The subject property is developed with buildings that exceed heights of twenty-five
feet to the north, east and west, and an antenna height of fifteen feet will not allow
the cellular provider to supply its users with adequate coverage_ The study
provided by the applicant, as required in Section 93.08.03(B) of the Palm Springs
Zoning Code, indicates that a fifteen foot antenna will not satisfy the necessary
coverage due to inhibiting factors. These factors include terrain variations, foliage
and man-made structures in the vicinity and under identical zone classification.
2) Any variance granted shall be subject to such conditions as will assure that the
adjustment thereby authorized shall not constitute a grant of special privilege
inconsistent with the limitations upon other properties in the vicinity and zone in
which subject property is situated.
A similar antenna of fifty-five feet tall was granted for another provider at a property
located at 495 East Sunny Dunes Road. The site is within the same vicinity and
zoning designation as the proposed facility. Many of the conditions of approval are
similar to those required by this applicant. Therefore, the approval of this Variance
would not constitute a grant of special privilege that is inconsistent with the
limitations placed upon other providers in the vicinity and zoning designation.
3) The granting of the variance will not be materially detrimental to the pubic health,
safety, convenience, or welfare or injurious to property and improvements in the
same vicinity and zone in which subject property is situated.
The increase in antenna height above the fifteen foot maximum has been shown
by another provider within the vicinity to not be materially detrimental to the public
health, safety or welfare, or injurious to property in the vicinity. All other
development standards are met by this proposal.
4) The granting of such variance will not adversely affect the general plan of the city_
The proposed project has been analyzed and evaluated against the policies of the
General Plan and no inconsistencies have been found.
Pursuant to Section 93.08.03(B) of the PSZC, in cases involving applications for height
limit variances, no such variance shall be granted unless the Director of Planning
Services makes the following finding in addition to those required above:
00a101Q
Planning Commission Staff Report January 23, 2008
Case 5.1080-CUP/6.492-VAR Page 5 of 7
5) That in the area involved, transmission or reception is adversely affected by
obstructions and, as verified by at least one (1) person holding a valid radio-
telephone first-class operator's license issued by the Federal Communications
Commission, it is not feasible to achieve and maintain satisfactory communications
within the specified height limitations.
The applicant (Sprint Nextel) provided a study that shows that the height limit of
fifteen feet will not provide the necessary coverage objectives. A Federal
Communications Commission licensed radio frequency engineer provided
diagrams that show the top of the antenna at a height of fifteen feet compared to
forty-four feet. The forty-four foot high antenna would provide more than double
the amount of geographical coverage than that of a fifteen foot high antenna at the
subject site. The maximum height of fifteen feet does not appear to achieve and
maintain satisfactory communications with the specified height limitations.
Conditional Use Permit
The request is subject to the required findings of a Conditional Use Permit as contained
in Section 94.02.00 of the PSZC. Staff has analyzed the request in light of the required
findings as follows:
a. The use applied for at the location set forth in the application is properly one for
which a conditional use permit is authorized by the City zoning Ordinance.
Pursuant to Section 94.02.00(A)(2)(f) of the Palm Springs Zoning Ordinance, a
commercial communications antenna is authorized within the C-M Zone with the
approval of a Type II Conditional Use Permit.
b. The use applied for is necessary or 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.
The development of adequate cellular phone levels of services serves the ultimate
benefit of the community. The antenna will be located within 600 feet of another
monopole and in a commercial-industrial area, which is an acceptable environment
for the location of wireless communication antennas. The antennas will be entirely
concealed within the monopole. The proposal is unlikely to be detrimental to
existing or future uses permitted within the zone.
c. The site for the intended use is adequate in size and shape to accommodate said
use, including yards, setbacks, walls or fences, landscaping and other features
required in order to adjust said use to those existing or permitted future uses of the
land in the neighborhood.
Planning Commission Staff Report January 23, 2008
Case 5.1080—CUP/6.492—VAR Page 6 of 7
The proposed communication antenna is located in a parking lot that will be
required to meet the current Zoning Code with the construction of the monopole in
order to adjust said use to the existing and permitted future uses of the land.
Landscaping will be added to soften the appearance of the equipment wall.
d. The site for the proposed use related to streets and highways is properly designed
and improved to carry the type and quantity of traffic to be generated by the
proposed use.
The only traffic generated to and from the site will be for servicing the antenna and
equipment; the existing infrastructure is anticipated to accommodate the traffic
necessary for the maintenance of the facility.
e. The conditions to be imposed and shown on the approved site plan are deemed
necessary to protect the public health, safety and general welfare, including any
minor modifications of the zone's property development standards.
The project is unlikely to have a significant impact on the proposed project site or
its surroundings. Conditions to ensure the protection of public health, safety and
general welfare are required to be fulfilled by the applicant for approval and will
include, but are not limited to, removal of antenna upon use-change or
abandonment of the subject property and compliance with all Federal Airport
Administration requirements.
ENVIRONMENTAL DETERMINATION:
This project is categorically exempt from environmental review pursuant to Section
15332 (Class 32 -- In-Fill Development) of the California Environmental Quality Act
(CEQA)_
NOTIFICATION:
A notice was mailed to all property owners within a four hundred (400) foot radius in
accordance with state law. As of the date of writing this staff report, there have been no
comments received.
I" �
David A. Newell ai ing, AI
Assistant Planner Di of Plann' g ervices
Planning Commission Staff Report January 23, 2008
Case 5.1080—CUP/6.492—VAR Page 7 of 7
ATTACHMENTS:
- 400' Radius Map
- Draft Resolution with Conditions of Approval
- Site Plans
Elevations Plan
- Variance Height Study
City of Palm Springs
Planning Commission Minutes
of January 23, 2008
MISCELLANEOUS
3. Case 5.1188 - A conformity report for the proposal by -- a Agua Caliente
Band of Cahuilla Indians Cultural Indian's Cultural M eum project located
at the southeast corner of East T q ,itx Canyon Way
and Hermosa Drive, Zone IRA, Section 14, U8�00-038 and 040.
(Project Planner: Diane A. Bullock, Associat lanl r)
Ali.1
Diane Bullock, Associate Planner provided ba ground�inforrnatl1, as outlined in the
staff report dated January 23, 2008. Ms. B ock„reJ?�orted that St F. IS recommending
several traffic improvement measures, i uding�,rinstallation of a tr. ]Pic signal at the
intersection of Tahquitz Canyon Way a Herr�Qsa Drive
Commissioner Ringlein noted th she attended`�t�e;.,Archifectural Advisory Committee
meeting, when this �'`"
g, project s presented, and fhe consensus was that this is an
excellent design.
-Tom Davis, Chief PI ning & Develo Me[�f:�(��ficer, Agua��Galiente Band of Cahuilla
Indians, stated their evelopment team s av� I.`e:for questions and provided further
details on the trib ' review process. '
VF
MISIC (Ring] nlCohei'i; 6-6)V, .recommend approval to the City Council, as amended:
-Inclusio of the revisetggesed engineering,c'bnditions.
PUBLI EARINGSs
4. C 5,1080 CUT 6.492 F AR - An application by Sprint Nextel for a
Con nal Use ,mit to install a forty-four foot high communication
anten signed a slim-line monopole with equipment cabinets and a
Variance cee 4he fifteen foot antenna height maximum located at 505
East Indus ce, Zone C-M, Section 23, APN: 508-162.009. (Project
Planner: Dav Newell, Assistant Planner)
David A. Newell, Assistant Planner, provided background information as outlined in the
staff report dated January 23, 2008- Mr. Newell noted an page 3 of the staff report that
it should reflect condition#k1 regarding re-paving and re-striping of the parking lot,
3 000023
City of Palm Springs
Planning Commission Minutes
of January 23, 2008
Chair Marantz opened the Public Hearing:
-Lang Cornell, Palm Springs, managing partner, Five Star Property Development,
requested consideration be taken for the surrounding redevelopment of the
neighborhood; and noted their preference for a monopalm with palm trees to camflouge
the antenna. 41
-Michael Rice, Palm Springs, owner of the property, state., �4he*has upgraded the
and felt that the antenna would not be an e e sol' ' o the new development
property Y - . ,x..' P
across the street.
There being no further appearances, the Public Heafjig was
Commissioner Ringlein stated she felt that utility' poles are more 'VofFersye,Ihan cell
towers and agreed that a monopalm with suRod.6hding palm trees would .LtSok better in
this area. ';w? y
Commissioner Scott stated he felt=a,monopalm an'dy surrounding palm trees would
cluster the area and preferred a monopoje:,.,,T
Commissioner Caffery noted this is exaotfy whatthC,ommission has requested.
Vice Chair Hochanadel,li,f tk�bis preferenc or a mortapaI at this location noting that
a monopole would lo(Jk'"out of character with``the surrounding environment.
MIS/C (Caffery/Scott,"5, 1,Nice "Chair Hochana-del) To recommend approval to the City
Council, subject to Conditfdr}s:`of App"riVaLW..., :, "
5. Case 5.1182 CUP? ;,_.'An application by Kum Jai g, dba North End Market
:�.;_- �anr ; i,quor, for a C'rsnditional Use permit to IX he use of a convenience /
:,•.A
liquo�-store at 1934 North Indian Can nve Zone HC, Section 15, APN:
(Proje4tn�,lanner: 6avid A. Newell sistant Planner)
David Newell, As's1, t° planner,,p ovided background information as outlined in the
staff report dated Jaij;Uary 23, Ot38.
Chair Marantz opene e Public Hearing. There being no appearances, the Public
Hearing was closed
M/SIC (Ri ein/Cohen, 6-0) To approve, subject to Conditions of Approval-
4 000024
CITY OF PALM SPRINGS
PUBLIC HEARING NOTIFICATION
(V I
CITY CLERK'S DEPARTMENT
James Thompson, City Clerk
City Council
Meeting Date: February 20, 2008
Subject: CASE NO. 5.1080 CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT / 6,492 VARIANCE
SPRINT NEXTEL - 505 EAST INDUSTRIAL PLACE
AFFIDAVIT OF MAILING
I, Kathie Hart, CMC, Chief Deputy City Clerk, of the City of Palm Springs, California, do
hereby certify that a copy of the attached Notice of Public Hearing was mailed to each and
every person on the attached list on or before February 8, 2008, in a sealed envelope, with
postage prepaid, and depositing same in the U.S. Mail at Palm Springs, California.
(43 notices)
I declare under penalty of perjury that the foregoing is true and correct.
-- ' �'T�
Kathie Hart, CMC
Chief Deputy City Clerk
AFFIDAVIT OF PUBLICATION
I, Kathie Hart, CMC, Chief Deputy City Clerk, of the City of Palm Springs, California, do
hereby certify that a copy of the attached Notice of Public Hearing was published in the
Desert Sun on February 9, 2008,
1 declare under penalty of perjury that the foregoing is true and correct.
Kathie Hart, CMC
Chief Deputy City Clerk
AFFIDAVIT OF POSTING
I, Dolores Strickstein, Secretary, of the City of Palm Springs, California, do hereby certify
that a copy of the attached Notice of Public Hearing was posted at City Hall, 3200 E.
Tahquitz Canyon Drive, on the exterior legal notice posting board and in the Office of the
City Clerk on or before February 8, 2008.
/11 declare under
penalty of perjury that the foregoing is true and correct.
Dolores Strickstein, Secretary
NEIGHBORHOOD COALITION REPS
Case 5,1080 CUP/6.492 VAR MR PETE MORUZZI
Sprint Nextel MODCOM AND PALM SPRINGS MODERN COMMITTEE
PHN for CC Meeting 02.20.08 HISTORIC SITE REP 1 1 1 PO BOX 4738
PALM SPRINGS CA 92263.4738
CITY OF PALM SPRINGS
PLANNING SERVICES DEPARTMENT CASE 5.1080 CUP
VERIFICATION NOTICE I I I ATTN SECRETARY MRS.JOANNE BRUGGEMANS
PO BOX 2743 506 W.SANTA CATALINA ROAD
PALM SPRINGS, CA 92263-2743 PALM SPRINGS, CA 92262
MS MARGARET PARK
AGUA CALIENTE BAND OF CAHUILLA
AGUA CALIENTE BAND OF CAHUILLA INDIANS
INDIANS I I 1 I 1 1 5401 DINAH SHORE DRIVE
PALM SPRINGS CA 92264
MR JACOB FINNEY NEXTEL COMMUNICATIONS
ALCOA 310 COMMERCE
SPONSORS 201 ISABELLA STREET IRVINE, CA 92602-1300 _
PITTSBURGH, PA 15212
�Y Y��
PROOF OF PUBLICATION This is space fbr Count-v Cleric's Filing Siamp
(2015.5.C.C.P)
STATE OF CALIFORNIA
County of Riverside
No 0069 NOTICEOPPUBLICHEARING
CITY COUNCIL
CITY OF PALM SPRINGS
CASE ND 5.1ti CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT!
I am a citizen of the United States and a resident of 6,402 VARIANCE -
the County aforesaid;I am over the age of eighteen 505 EASTRINDUSTRIAL PLACE
years,and not a party to or interested in the NOTICE IS HERESY GIVEN that line City Council of
above-entitled matter,I am the principal clerk of a the City of Palm Spn19s Cal,loln+a,wK hale a public
oearmp at Its meeting of February 20,200e. The City
printer of the,DESERT SUN PUBLISHING caun 91 maetln99 bell at I pm,m me Caunc+l
one,nbet at C4 Hall, 3200 East Tshgmlz Canyon
COMPANY a newspaper of general circulation, Way,Palm Springs
printed and published in The city of Palm Springs, The puryosa of the I` ' In Is to consider an appliPa-
CountyofRiverside,and which newspaper has been lion by Sprint Noxtel fora Gondalnnal llse Permit loin'
stall a long-tour lout tall cammercial,communication an-
br
ad-ud ed a newspaper of general circulation b the Perna desiqearl as a monopole e li eqw�mein antenna,1 gg y nets antl aVar as llo-o nopolecesd with fee ent Quna l
Superior Court of the County of Riverside,State of reght maximum al 5os East Industrial Place zonoa C-
California under the date of Mareb 24, 1988.Case M _
Number 191236;that the notice,of which the
o.rmm.,�orri.�,dno s.,.iaon .Cy.
annexed is n printed copy(set in type not smaller � � ____ =���na•= -, r
than non pariel,has been published in each regular
and entire issue of said newspaper and not in anyr_--
supplement thereof on the following dates,to wit: );
_ 1 _
February 901 2008 h
I i
All in the year2008 �----'—•---�` — If- 1_ ^r=^r�^+w.—�� I
__ Ia
I certify(or declare)under penalty of perjury that the
foregoing is true and correct.
ay VInoNtaENTALOETEy exch II from environl emal
Dated at Palm Springs,California this---�I2 ,---day rnlV pro)ecP is cate9ondally excmpp�trom
review pursuant to Secl+pn 15332 foju it 32. In-pill
DevelepMont)of the California Environmental Quality
of--- February------_-------,2008 Act(CEQA).
report and other 0uPPtlnlni%dacuume 13regapmng INN
! ppml�ale sls+14,far pq 110 review at City HFIII be-
twaen the hours of 8 ea a.m.and 5'00 P in.Monday
�-; Ihrou9h Frlday. Pleasu contact the 0114 of the Ciw
_--- ....... CIerH at(760f 32ntment to 3.570d if You would Iliac schedule
� an appol review thc:c decurnems.
1 %,'m re'�—i COMMENT CN THIS APPLICATION: Response to
CC b this notice ri be mace verbally at the Public Hearing
r"1 G1 to�C gndlof inwdnnn belcra llm heanng.Written comments
F' .� p_ holy be m8de ie the City Council By letter(for mail of
jo =r_V hand delivery)ro.
son C+
dames ThOmP
LcS� U 320o E.Tohquit Canyyon Way
4 ti} Palm Springs,CA 92262
LZZ7 W1� Any challenge of the proposed prolcot In coon may 6t.
ILL- llmltsd�to rawjng only Incas ijrues oral m d amen public
LA— 1U hearin descnboU in tors City,
spontlen li u hearing,to the MI'lint at,of prior tn,
�-- � < the p bile hearing. (Covemment Code Section
I— C ~, 86oC1,@1f211
An opportunity will be glven at Bald having for all Inter-
osted peryysons tp be heald OuUstlons mCqi rdmg INS
Sort, epa8mentat to(6d)323924Sewall, Planning
Ciudad de Palm 8ppnn99s5t9c pV de Pf+adlas�coln Nadlnc
Flegef lelefonc(760)323-�245
amp-° nompson. dy lerc
published:S19/:e0e —_
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
CITY COUNCIL
CITY OF PALM SPRINGS
CASE NO. 5.1080 CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT / 6.492 VARIANCE
SPRINT NEXTEL
505 EAST INDUSTRIAL PLACE
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City Council of the City of Palm Springs, California, will
hold a public hearing at its meeting of February 20, 2008. The City Council meeting begins at
6:00 p.m. in the Council Chamber at City Hall, 3200 East Tahquitz Canyon Way, Palm
Springs.
The purpose of the hearing is to consider an application by Sprint Nextel for a Conditional
Use Permit to install a forty-four foot tall commercial communication antenna designed as a
monopole with equipment cabinets and a Variance to exceed the fifteen feet antenna height
maximum at 505 East Industrial Place, zoned C-M.
ENVIRONMENTAL DETERMINATION: This project is categorically exempt from
environmental review pursuant to Section 15332 (Class 32 — In-Fill Development) of the
California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA).
REVIEW OF PROJECT INFORMATION: The staff report and other supporting documents
regarding this project are available for public review at City Hall between the hours of 8:00
a.m. and 5:00 p-m- Monday through Friday. Please contact the Office of the City Clerk at
(760) 323-8204 if you would like to schedule an appointment to review these documents.
COMMENT ON THIS APPLICATION: Response to this notice may be made verbally at the
Public Hearing and/or in writing before the hearing. Written comments may be made to the
City Council by letter(for mail or hand delivery) to=
James Thompson, City Clerk
3200 E. Tahquitz Canyon Way
Palm Springs, CA 92262
Any challenge of the proposed project in court may be limited to raising only those issues
raised at the public hearing described in this notice, or in written correspondence delivered to
the City Clerk at, or prior to, the public hearing. (Government Code Section 65009[b][21).
An opportunity will be given at said hearing for all interested persons to be heard. Questions
regarding this case may be directed to David A- Newell, Planning Services Department at
(760) 323-8245.
Si necesita ayuda con esta carta, porfavor [lame a la Ciudad de Palm Springs y puede hablar
con Nadine Fiegertelefono (760) 323-8245.
mes Thompson, City Clerk - '
- 000028
Department of Planning Services W+E
Vicinity Map 5
III
z
z
SUNNY DUNKS RD w
i
I INDUSTRIAL PL I -- -
- -J
Legend
9
400 Foot Radius z
Project Site a
m
� ENZ0 RD Surrounding Parcels SAN LDR
CITY OF PALM SPRINGS
CASE NO: 5.1080 CUP DESCRIPTION: To consider an application by Sprint
6.492 VARIANCE Nextel for a Conditional Use Permit to install a forty-
two foot tall commercial communication antenna
APPLICANT: Sprint Nextel designed as a monopalm with equipment cabinets and
a Variance to exceed the fifteen feet antenna height
maximum at 505 East Industrial Place, zoned C-M.
APN:508-162-009.