HomeMy WebLinkAbout1.0_Draft Minutes of May 12, 2022
NEWPORT BEACH PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS – 100 CIVIC CENTER DRIVE THURSDAY, May 12, 2022 REGULAR MEETING – 6:30 P.M. I. CALL TO ORDER – The meeting was called to order at 6:30 p.m. II. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE – Commissioner Koetting III. ROLL CALL PRESENT: Chair Lee Lowrey, Vice Chair Lauren Kleiman, Secretary Curtis Ellmore, Commissioner Peter Koetting, Commissioner Sarah Klaustermeier, Commissioner Mark Rosene, Commissioner Erik Weigand ABSENT: None Staff Present: Community Development Director Seimone Jurjis, Deputy Community Development Director Jim Campbell, Assistant City Attorney Yolanda Summerhill, City Traffic Engineer Tony Brine, Police Civilian Investigator Wendy Joe, Planning Consultant Liane Schuller, Assistant Planner Patrick Achis, Administrative Assistant Clarivel Rodriguez, and Department Assistant Amanda Lee IV. PUBLIC COMMENTS Jim Mosher questioned the appeal status of the residential redevelopment on Ocean Boulevard. Deputy Community Development Director Campbell reported that the Ocean Boulevard appeal was withdrawn by the appellant. V. REQUEST FOR CONTINUANCES A request was made by Deputy Community Development Director Campbell to continue Item No. 2 regarding the Newport Beach Tennis Club Development Agreement Extension (PA2022-038) and Item No. 6 regarding Senate Bill 9 Implementation Code Amendment (PA2021-277) until May 26, 2022.
VI. CONSENT ITEMS ITEM NO. 1 MINUTES OF APRIL 21, 2022 Recommended Action: Approve and file Motion made by Commissioner Weigand and seconded by Vice Chair Kleiman to approve the minutes of the April 21, 2022, meeting with Mr. Mosher's proposed edits. AYES: Ellmore, Klaustermeier, Kleiman, Koetting, Lowrey, Rosene, and Weigand NOES: None ABSTAIN: None ABSENT: None Vll. PUBLIC HEARING ITEMS ITEM NO. 2 NEWPORT BEACH TENNIS CLUB DEVELOPMENT AGREEMENT EXTENSION (PA2022-038) Site Location: 1602 East Coast Highway Summary: The City and Golf Realty Fund, Managing Owner (“GRF”), entered into a Development Agreement (“Agreement”) in 2012 to ensure the orderly redevelopment of the Newport Beach Tennis Club site overtime with a replacement tennis facility, visitor accommodations, and 5 single-family homes (“Approved Project”). The term of the Agreement is 10 years, and it will expire on September 23, 2022, if no action is taken. The Agreement provides GRF the vested right to
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implement the Approved Project provided it is in compliance with the approved entitlements and development standards specified in the Newport Beach Country Club Planned Community for the Tennis Club site. The Agreement also requires GRF to provide certain public benefits. GRF requests a 10-year extension.
Recommended Action: Continue to the May 26, 2022, special Planning Commission Meeting. Chair Lowrey opened the public hearing. Chair Lowrey closed the public hearing.
Motion made by Commissioner Rosene and seconded by Commissioner Koetting to continue to the May 26, 2022, special Planning Commission Meeting.
AYES: Ellmore, Klaustermeier, Kleiman, Koetting, Lowrey, Rosene, and Weigand NOES: None
ABSTAIN: None ABSENT: None ITEM NO. 3 JULIETTE’S CAFÉ AND MARKET (PA2022-018) Site Location: 1501 Westcliff Drive Summary: A Conditional Use Permit to establish a 3,584-square foot retail and food service, no late hours with a Type 41 (On-Sale Beer and Wine) Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) license
(“Project”) within a vacant tenant space previously occupied by a retail bank. The Project will include 530 square feet of interior net public area and a 1,200-square-foot outdoor patio area. There
are no late hours (after 11:00 p.m.) and no dancing or live entertainment area proposed. The application also includes a request to reduce the code required parking by 20 parking spaces.
Recommended Action:
1. Conduct a public hearing;
2. Find this project exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to
Section 15303 under Class 3 (New Construction or Conversion of Small Structures) of the CEQA
Guidelines, because it has no potential to have a significant effect on the environment; and
3. Approve Adopt Resolution No. PC2022-009 approving Use Permit No. UP2022-003 (Attachment
No. PC 1).
Planning Consultant, Liane Schuller utilized a presentation to review the request by Juliette’s Café and Market and shared the project location, Conditional Use Permit No. UP2022-018 details, vicinity map, project description for casual dining and to-go items, and a retail market, building floor plan, project floor plan, pictures of the existing conditions and architectural renderings, alcoholic beverage sales considerations, police department statistics, the results of the parking analysis, CEQA review, and recommended action. In response to Vice Chair Kleiman’s question, Ms. Schuller clarified that a Type 41 ABC license allows for retail store sales and on-site consumption and noted having not intentionally left out Newport Harbor High School in the staff report. Furthermore, Deputy Community Development Director Campbell reported no specific standard for determining proximity to an establishment selling alcohol, considerations for surrounding uses, and the discretion of the Planning Commission to identify detriments and relayed no issue with proximity of the project with Newport Harbor High School, and he reiterated staff’s recommendation of approval. In response to Commissioner Koetting’s inquiry, Ms. Schuller deferred to the applicant regarding Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions (CC&R) for parking. Commissioners reported no ex parte communications.
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Chair Lowrey opened the public hearing.
In response to Commissioner Weigand’s questions, Brian Martini, Vice President of Asset Management for DMP
Properties and representative of the applicant, relayed areas of under and over parking, space allotments for the
adjacent establishment, control of all parking, and forthcoming rebranding property signage and Commissioner
Weigand expressed an interest for the applicant to collaborate with staff to work with property neighbors.
In response to Commissioner Rosene’s inquiries, Mr. Martini confirmed the applicant’s ownership of the entire parking
lot, allowance for a shared parking field between two buildings, and current trash facilities with future accommodations
as per guidance received from the Building Department.
In response to Commissioner Koetting’s questions, Mr. Martini relayed that the renderings and plans in the
presentation have been submitted for the open patio and include an uncovered space with tables, umbrellas, and
a sound barrier wall. Furthermore, he noted the property line is five to seven feet from US Bank, the patio is currently
unused, plans for new pavers and seating elements with consideration for noise, and planned fencing
recommended by staff.
In response to Chair Lowrey, John Hughes, the applicant, agreed to the Terms and Conditions of Approval and
described how wine and beer will be used on-site.
Chair Lowrey closed the public hearing.
In response to Vice Chair Kleiman's concerns, Police Civilian Investigator Wendy Joe confirmed that the nearby apartments are a hot spot for calls for service and, although the area is reported to ABC as a high crime area, it is
mostly related to theft with alcohol related violations low as compared to all areas of Newport Beach. She further noted no concern for the café's proximity to Newport Harbor High School.
In response to Vice Chair Kleiman’s questions about why recommended Conditions of Approval from the Police
Department memorandum Nos. 9, 14, and 4 were omitted, Ms. Schuller confirmed that the police department was amenable to a 10 p.m. closing and Deputy Community Development Director Campbell relayed that the Conditions of Approval included in the resolution are vetted with the police department. Vice Chair Kleiman recognized a pattern of lighter requirements and noted no food sale requirement.
Commissioner Weigand noted a quarterly gross food sales requirement in Condition No. 47 and recognized police
department requirements as satisfied. Motion made by Commissioner Weigand and seconded by Secretary Ellmore to approve the staff recommendation.
AYES: Ellmore, Klaustermeier, Kleiman, Koetting, Lowrey, Rosene, and Weigand NOES: None
ABSTAIN: None ABSENT: None
ITEM NO. 4 AMORE FOR DOGS (PA2021-217) Site Location: 20332 Riverside Drive Summary: A minor use permit request to establish a small-scale dog rescue operation (i.e., an “accessory commercial kennel”) in conjunction with an existing single-family residence. The scope of work would include the following: (1) Demolishing existing detached accessory kennels; (2) Installing seven 60-square-foot prefabricated kennels (totaling 420 square feet); (3) Remodeling an existing detached 504-square-foot dog wash and laundry building; and (4) Remodeling an existing 1,312-square-foot single-family residence and office area. Also included is a request to reduce the required off-street parking for both the residential and commercial uses.
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Recommended Action: 1. Conduct a public hearing;
2. Find this project exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to Title 14 of the California Code of Regulations (Section 15303, Article 19 of Chapter 3, Guidelines for Implementation of the California Environmental Quality Act) under Class 3 (New Construction or Conversion of Small Structures) and that the exceptions to the Class 3 exemption do not apply; an
3. Adopt Resolution No. PC2022-010 approving Conditional Use Permit No. UP2021-034 (Attachment No. PC 1). Assistant Planner, Patrick Achis, utilized a PowerPoint presentation to review the request by Amore for Dogs to
renovate an existing residential kennel that requires a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) for a substantial change to the existing kennel permit. He included the professional acoustical analysis and upgrades, aerial map of the project
site, SP-7 RK District and surrounding uses, proposed project depiction, justification for the parking waiver, operational characteristics, excerpt from the acoustical report, compatibility with the existing uses along the block, comparison table of the project with previous City approvals, complaints and code-related investigations for Riverside Drive, required CUP findings, Conditions of Approval, and recommended action. Furthermore, Mr. Achis
shared one public comment related to a perceived expansion of use, parking, and dog walking and staff’s recommendation for approval.
In response to Vice Chair Kleiman’s question, Mr. Achis confirmed that leashed dogs are allowable in public parks,
five Code Enforcement cases from neighboring properties are on record during the past year. The Code Enforcement cases related to parking at another residential kennel. The other two Code Enforcement cases were
related to construction practices at the subject site that have been resolved. Mr. Achis confirmed the 29-dog limit on the property.
In response to Commissioner Klaustermeier’s question, Mr. Achis deferred to the applicant regarding kennel layout
design.
Commissioner Weigand disclosed speaking with the Animal Control Supervisor and all other Commissioners reported no ex parte communications.
Chair Lowrey opened the public hearing.
Don Thurlow, Director of Operations for Amore for Dogs, summarized the sanctuary ownership, funding, goals, medical network, and greater mission and asked for continued support from the Planning Commission. In response to Commissioner Klaustermeier’s question, Mr. Thurlow explained the layout and accommodation
features in the prefabricated kennels and confirmed that animals are confined indoors at night. In response to Commissioner Koetting’s question, Mr. Thurlow explained the dog selection process and acclimation to personal ownership and described the facility as a resort environment. Commissioner Koetting acknowledged
the greater space provided for the dogs by comparison to other kennels.
In response to Commissioner Rosene’s question, Mr. Thurlow detailed the materials and accommodations that make up the prefabricated kennels and space for the dogs to move about. In response to Chair Lowrey, Mr. Thurlow agreed to the Terms and Conditions of Approval.
John Langford, President of Friends of Newport Beach Animal Shelter, commended the applicant and expressed
concern for street parking on Riverside Drive.
Susan Doan reported dogs walking in her yard and droppings on her property located on the corner of Orchard and Riverside Drives, tenant issues related to noise generated from barking, parking issues, and blocked access to her
house and opposed an expansion.
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Chair Lowrey closed the public hearing.
In response to Commissioner Rosene’s question, Mr. Achis confirmed a three-parking space maximum and indicated that parking issues along Riverside Drive are related to other operators and construction vehicles from other projects. Chair Lowrey reopened the public hearing. In response to Commissioner Koetting’s questions, Mr. Thurlow relayed the appointment duration and frequency at the property and indicated a code restriction for adding parking spaces. Community Development Director Jurjis concurred that it appears on the site plan that there is room for a fourth parking space, but circulation and access considerations only allow for three parking spaces to be counted. In response to Commissioner Weigand’s question, Mr. Thurlow confirmed the designation of each parking space. Chair Lowrey closed the public hearing. Vice Chair Kleiman noted a typo for modification in the hours of operation in Condition of Approval No. 14. Motion made by Secretary Ellmore and seconded by Commissioner Koetting to approve the staff recommendation
with a modification to the hours of operation in Condition for Approval no. 14.
AYES: Ellmore, Klaustermeier, Kleiman, Koetting, Lowrey, Rosene, and Weigand
NOES: None
ABSTAIN: None
ABSENT: None
ITEM NO. 5 RITZ-CARLTON RESIDENCES (PA2021-296) Site Location: 900 Newport Center Drive Summary: Request for a Coastal Development Permit, vesting tentative tract map, modification permit,
conditional use permit and site development review to convert up to 30% of the hotel rooms at the VEA Newport Beach, (formerly the Marriott Resort and Spa) into hotel branded residences pursuant to City Council Policy K-4 and Director’s Determination No. DD2021-001. The new 22-story building would include up to 159 units and provide amenities including a spa, pool, event lawn and gym/fitness center. A new 5-level, 408-space subterranean parking structure would be constructed beneath the new residential building. A new 6-level (4-levels below ground & 2-levels above ground) 400 parking space parking structure will replace the existing hotel parking structure in substantially the same location and continue to serve the VEA Newport Beach hotel. This item may not be appealed to the California Coastal Commission and is only appealable to the City Council. Recommended Action: 1. Conduct a public hearing; 2. Find that potential environmental impacts have been previously mitigated through the implementation of the policies of the General Plan as evaluated in Program Environmental Impact
Report for the 2006 General Plan Update (SCH No. 2006011119) (“PEIR”); therefore, in accordance with Section 15164 of the California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”) Guidelines, an addendum to the previously certified PEIR is the appropriate environmental documentation for the project; and
3. Approve The Ritz-Carlton Residences Project (PA2021-296) finding that the Project is eligible for accessory residential uses pursuant to Director’s Determination No. DD2021-001 and City
Council Policy K-4, and adopt Resolution No. PC2022-011 (Attachment No. PC 1) approving Environmental Impact Report Addendum No. 6 (ER2022-002), Major Site Development Review
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No. SD2021-005, Modification Permit No. MD2022-001, Conditional Use Permit No. UP2021-053, Coastal Development Permit No. CD2021-077 and Vesting Tentative Tract Map No. NT2021-003 (PA2021-296).
Deputy Community Development Director Campbell utilized a PowerPoint presentation to review the request for a Coastal Development Permit for the Ritz-Carlton Residences, vicinity map, project details, site plan, entry plan with extensive landscaping, amenity plan, applications for consideration, environmental review, notice to the community, scrivener’s error and remedy, accessory residential use, Director’s Determination No. DD2021-001, General Plan consistency, zoning consistency, high rise zone, Local Coastal Program consistency, CEQA, fiscal benefits, and recommended actions.
In response to Secretary Ellmore’s questions, Deputy Community Development Director Campbell indicated that the California Coastal Commission (CCC) was involved in the Director’s Determination process and noted no additional challenge action after the City addressed the comment letter from CCC before the 60-day post decision
appeal period closed. Assistant City Attorney Summerhill relayed a 60-day appeal process following the final decision and CCC’s nonresponse within that period.
Chair Lowrey requested Commissioners report any ex parte communications. Commissioner Rosene disclosed having met with the applicant and applicant’s consultant, and that he toured the property. Vice Chair Kleiman disclosed having met with applicant and applicant’s consultant while on-site and thereafter. Commissioner
Klaustermeier disclosed corresponding with the applicant’s consultant. Commissioner Koetting disclosed meeting with the applicant. Secretary Ellmore disclosed having met with the applicant and touring the property. Chair Lowrey
disclosed having met with the applicant and touring the property. Commissioner Weigand disclosed having met with the applicant and applicant’s consultants while on property and touring the project site and the VEA Newport Beach.
Chair Lowrey opened the public hearing.
Shawna Schaffner, CEO of CAA Planning, utilized a presentation to review the Ritz-Carlton Residences project
PA2021-296, the project summary for an accessory hotel branded residence with subterranean parking to an existing hotel resort campus, project team, VEA Newport Beach repositioning plans, hotel-branded residences
operated by the Marriott campus and management team, chronological history of hotel-branded residences, entitlement application request, project site and completed site maps, site development review, intensity impact,
reduction in traffic trips, building height, east elevation, site section, residential structure, fire access and service drive section, hotel parking structure, building materials, design inspiration and the Ritz-Carlton Yacht collection,
building architecture and various perspective images, compatibility with Newport Center, and views from Castaways, the Yacht Streets, Spy Glass Hill Road, and Granville entry. Ms. Schaffner also reviewed the
modification permit for tandem parking spaces, Conditional Use Permit, City issued Coastal Development Permit, public benefit fee of $100,000 per unit, public outreach, project conclusions, and requested action.
In response to Commissioner Rosene’s question, Ms. Schaffner described the construction management plan for
temporary parking, demolition, and replacement of the current parking structure.
In response to Vice Chair Kleiman’s questions, Ms. Schaffner utilized slides to show an employee access drive and entrance, exterior maintenance vehicle parking area, refuse delivery path, and loading dock area and indicated
valet assistance for grocery unloading, planned screening around appurtenances, an occupancy rate of eight percent of the hotel generated revenue from the existing hotel, sales projections, and a low-cost accommodation standard of approximately $135 per room.
In response to Commissioner Klaustermeier’s questions, City Traffic Engineer Brine clarified that no Vehicle Miles Traveled (VMT) study was required. Deputy Community Development Director Campbell showed a slide to show
the CCC appeal jurisdiction areas. In response to Commissioner Koetting’s questions, Ms. Schaffner defined hotel-branded residences and utilized slides to explain the acoustical dampening construction fence along the back of Granville and service drive and bay
area in basement level one for moving vans. Community Development Director Jurjis clarified an amendment to the use of the affordable housing funds provided to remove the limit to seniors only.
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In response to Secretary Ellmore’s question, Ms. Schaffner clarified that a sign program will be submitted in the future pursuant to City requirements. In response to Commissioner Weigand’s questions, Ms. Schaffner clarified the process required by a hotel or
landowner to build a hotel, an anticipated 42-month long demolition and construction process, being unfamiliar with the Concern Residents Newport group and their inaccurate rendering of the proposed project. Additionally, Commissioner Weigand commended CAA Planning and the applicant for public outreach efforts. In response to Commissioner Weigand’s questions on the project study, a representative from LSA stated that the existing hotel generated higher air quality and greenhouse gas emission than will the proposed project due to the
net reduction in vehicle trips and Alia Hokuki, Project Manager at Psomas, clarified wastewater flow and measurements related to room size and infrastructure demands and water use influences as compared to the existing hotel rooms reduces water use. Commissioner Weigand noted a less impactful effect on the City with the proposed project based on the studies.
In response to Chair Lowrey’s inquiry, Ms. Schaffner agreed to the Terms and Conditions of Approval along with
the noted amendment to condition related to the use of the affordable housing funds. Gary Sherwin, President and CEO of Newport Beach and Company, supported the Ritz-Carlton Residences project and expressed the opinion that the Ritz luxury brand, leader in luxury services and amenities, and loyal following
will elevate Newport Beach and result in a huge win for all who live and work in Newport Beach.
Susan Skinner outlined the legal processes for project approvals and asked the City to follow the law. She indicated her belief that the project if approved would violate Section 21.48.025 of the Municipal Code that prohibits the
conversion of hotels with certificates of occupancy prior to 2009 from being converted to Limited Use Overnight Visitor Accommodations which appears to her to include condos.
An unidentified speaker supported the Ritz-Carlton Residences project.
Nancy Scarbrough supported the Ritz-Carlton Residence project and relayed Housing Element unit requirements
and a land trust agreement with Still Protecting Our Newport (SPON) that will create housing opportunities.
Jim Mosher questioned the project approval approach, public awareness of the appeal allowance, General Plan and CCC certified Coastal Land Use Plan allowance for a mixed-use area, and the housing trust fund.
John French, Board of Director of the Granville Community Association, supported the Ritz-Carlton Residences
project.
Don Emami, President of the Meridian Newport Beach Association, supported the Ritz-Carlton Residences project.
Phoebe Loos, Chairman of the Board of the Granville Homeowner’s Association, supported the Ritz-Carlton Residences project. Patrick Olson relayed the spread of misinformation by a concerned Newport Beach resident and supported the Ritz-Carlton Residences project. Steve Rosansky, former Mayor and current CEO of Newport Beach Chamber of Commerce, supported the Ritz-Carlton Residences project. Robin Shelton, General Manager of Newport Beach Country Club, supported the Ritz-Carlton Residences project. Debbie Snavely, General Manager of VEA Newport Beach, supported the Ritz-Carlton Residences project. Charles Klobe, President of SPON, provided details of the land trust agreement and asked the Planning Commission to support the alliance between the VEA Newport Beach property owners, SPON, and the City of Newport Beach.
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Ruth Kobayashi, Harbor Cove resident, expressed excitement for the VEA Newport Beach and support for the Ritz-Carlton Residence project and asked for Planning Commission support. Ms. Schaffner clarified IP section 21.48.025 of the Local Coastal Program prohibiting hotel conversions to time
shares as inapplicable, accessory use established in the Director’s Determination and staff reports for appeal of that determination, and permissible building of a high-rise hotel on the property. In response to Commissioner Rosene’s question, Ms. Schaffner indicated that the housing trust fund discussed with SPON is separate from and outside of the $65,000 marked for affordable housing per the conditions of approval.
Chair Lowrey closed the public hearing. In response to Commissioner Weigand’s question, Community Development Director Jurjis reviewed the Director’s
Determination process and clarified four benefiting hotels: VEA being one in the Coastal Zone, but not in the appeal jurisdiction and three other hotels outside of the Coastal Zone.
Commissioner Rosene supported the Ritz-Carlton Residences project. In response to Vice Chair Kleiman’s inquiry, Community Development Director Jurjis relayed that the Use of
Property tax revenue and Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) revenue go into the General Fund for regular expenses with a portion of the TOT supporting Visit Newport Beach and noted that the City satisfied the Short-Term Lodging
permit cap which eliminates rental opportunities at the Ritz-Carlton Residences.
Commissioner Klaustermeier supported the Ritz-Carlton Residences project. Commissioner Koetting shared his application review process and support for the Ritz-Carlton Residences project.
Secretary Ellmore supported the Ritz-Carlton Residences project.
Commissioner Weigand outlined the benefits of the project and supported the Ritz-Carlton Residences project. Chair Lowrey described the project as a win-win opportunity. Motion made by Chair Lowrey and seconded by Commissioner Wiegand to approve the major site development
review, modification permit, Conditional Use Permit, Coastal Development Permit, vesting tentative tract map, and
EIR addendum with a strike out of the word “senior” from Conditional of Approval No. 7.
AYES: Ellmore, Klaustermeier, Kleiman, Koetting, Lowrey, Rosene, and Weigand
NOES: None
ABSTAIN: None
ABSENT: None
Assistant City Attorney Summerhill announced the decision is appealable to the City Council and not CCC. ITEM NO. 6 SENATE BILL 9 IMPLEMENTATION CODE AMENDMENT (PA2021-277) Site Location: Citywide
Summary:
Senate Bill 9 Implementation Code Amendment - Amendments to Title 19 (Subdivisions) and Title 20 (Planning and Zoning) establishing regulations to implement Government Code Sections
65852.21 and 66411.7 that went into effect on January 1, 2022. Specifically, the amendment would allow ministerial subdivisions and the construction of up to two units for lots that are designated for
single-family use.
Recommended Action: Continue to May 26, 2022, special Planning Commission Meeting
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Commissioner Rosene recused himself due to a conflict of interest due to potential financial interests related to his employment. Motion made by Vice Chair Kleiman and seconded by Secretary Ellmore to continue Item No. 6 Senate Bill 9
Implementation Code Amendment (PA2021-277) to May 26, 2022, special Planning Commission Meeting AYES: Ellmore, Klaustermeier, Kleiman, Koetting, Lowrey, and Weigand
NOES: None
RECUSED: Rosene ABSENT: None
VIII. STAFF AND COMMISSIONER ITEMS ITEM NO. 7 MOTION FOR RECONSIDERATION None ITEM NO. 8 REPORT BY THE COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR OR REQUEST FOR MATTERS WHICH A PLANNING COMMISSION MEMBER WOULD LIKE PLACED ON A FUTURE AGENDA. Deputy Community Development Director Campbell announced two items for the May 26th Planning Commission meeting, four items planned for the June 9th meeting, and cancellation of the June 23rd meeting. Community Development Director Jurjis reported returning to the Planning Commission with a Residential Care Facilities Ordinance update after satisfying the comments received from the California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) related to the Housing Element. He also indicated the item with the final code changes would return to the Planning Commission in January 2023 and then the City Council in February 2023. ITEM NO. 9 REQUESTS FOR EXCUSED ABSENCES None IX. ADJOURNMENT – The meeting adjourned at 9:32 p.m. until May 26, 2022.
May 26, 2022, Planning Commission Item 1 Comments
These comments on a Newport Beach Planning Commission agenda item are submitted by:
Jim Mosher ( jimmosher@yahoo.com ), 2210 Private Road, Newport Beach 92660 (949-548-6229).
Item No. 1. MINUTES OF MAY 12, 2022
The passages in italics are from the draft minutes, with corrections suggested in strikeout
underline format.
Page 4, paragraph 2 from end: “John Jon Langford, President of Friends of Newport Beach
Animal Shelter, commended the applicant and expressed concern for street parking on
Riverside Drive.” [Mr. Langford uses “Jon” -- short for Jonathan]
Page 6, paragraph 3 from end: “In response to Vice Chair Kleiman’s questions, Ms. Schaffner
utilized slides to show an employee access drive and entrance, exterior maintenance vehicle
parking area, refuse delivery path, and loading dock area and indicated valet assistance for
grocery unloading, planned screening around appurtenances, an occupancy rate of the
rooms to be replaced generate eight percent of the hotel generated revenue from the
existing hotel, sales projections, and a low-cost accommodation standard of approximately
$135 per room.”
[see video: The question was about the occupancy rate of the rooms to be demolished, but
the response described only the revenue as a fraction of the total hotel revenue, not
occupancy and certainly not occupancy rate. The occupancy rate could well be high if the
rent and number of them is lower than newer rooms.]
Page 7, paragraph 2: “In response to Commissioner Weigand’s questions, Ms. Schaffner
clarified the process required by a hotel or landowner to build a hotel, an anticipated 42-month
long demolition and construction process, being unfamiliar with the Concern Concerned
Residents Newport group and their inaccurate rendering of the proposed project.” [?]
Page 7, paragraph 4: “In response to Chair Lowrey’s inquiry, Ms. Schaffner agreed to the Terms
and Conditions of Approval along with the noted amendment to the condition related to the use
of the affordable housing funds.”
Page 9: The Planning Commission minutes normally end with a statement about when the
agenda was posted, followed by signature lines. Those are missing here.
Planning Commission - May 26, 2022 Item No. 1a Additional Materials Received After Deadline Draft Minutes of May 12, 2022