HomeMy WebLinkAbout03/05/1981COMMISSIONERS
REGULAR PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING .
MINUTES
Place: City Council
Chambers
Time: 7:30 p.m.
Date: March 5,
1981
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Commissioner Allen referred to the Planning
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third paragraph, and stated that the minutes
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All Present.
facilities addressed as one of the alternatives
EX- OFFICIO MEMBERS PRESENT:
James D. Hewicker, Planning Director
Robert Burnham, Assistant City Attorney
STAFF MEMBERS PRESENT:
William R. Laycock, Current Planning Administrato
Bill Ward, Senior Planner
Donald Webb, Assistant City Engineer
Pamela Woods, Secretary
APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES
which MOTION CARRIED.
Approval of the Minutes of the Regular Planning
Commission Meeting of February 19, 1.981, was
continued for two weeks, in that the Commission
has not had sufficient time for their review.
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Commissioner Allen referred to the Planning
Commission Minutes of February 5, 1981, Page 3,
third paragraph, and stated that the minutes
should reflect that she wanted the recreational
facilities addressed as one of the alternatives
in the EIR. She then referred to Page 13 of the
February 5, 1981 Minutes, and stated that Mr.
Otey had requested that this project be withdrawn
if the item was not voted upon, or if they were
required to do another traffic report. She
stated that this should also be reflected in the
minutes.
Motion
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Motion was made to approve the Minutes of the
Ayes
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Regular Planning.Commission Meeting of February
Abstain
X
5, 1981, as revised by Commissioner Allen,
which MOTION CARRIED.
Approval of the Minutes of the Regular Planning
Commission Meeting of February 19, 1.981, was
continued for two weeks, in that the Commission
has not had sufficient time for their review.
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Request to approve a Final Map to create one
parcel of land so as to permit the construction
of a residential condominium project on the
property.
LOCATION: A portion of Lot 818, First
Addition to the Newport Mesa Tract,
located on:the northwesterly side
of Superior Avenue, southwesterly
of Placentia Avenue in the West
Newport Triangle.
ZONE:. Unclassified
APPLICANT: George J. Heltzer Co.
OWNER: Same as applicant
ENGINEER:. James J. Brennan, Inc., Orange
Planning Director Hewicker presented background
information on this continued item. He referred.
to Cond.ition No. 3 of the related Use Permit No.
80 -32 P approved by the Orange County Planning
Commission a.nd stated that they approved this
project as ,a precise plan and, any relocation,
alteration:or addition to any of the structures
or uses approved by this action will nullify
said approval. He stated that.should the project
plans be revised without increasing the overall
height, the City would honor the approval of the
County:, However, he stated that there is specu-
lation °as to how high:the building may.have to
be raised; anywhere from 18 inches to 4 feet.
He stated that for these.reasons, there is suf-
ficient evidence that the City should not proceed
with the approval of the final tract map at this
time. He recommended that this item be removed
from the Commission's calendar until such time
as the drainage study is completed.
In response to a question posed by Commissioner
Beek, Planning Director Hewicker stated that if
the grade is changed, the building will not be
the same height above the grade that existed
under the County's approval. He stated that the
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City measures the height of a building from the
natural grade, or the grade approved by the
Planning Commission.
Commissioner Beek asked if the City could define
and establish the grade for this project. Plan-
ning Director Hewicker stated that the City coul
establish grade on this project if this item is
to be heard by the City, otherwise, the grade
established by the County must be honored.
Commissioner Beek stated that the 32 foot height
limit of the district applies to the average
height of the roof, so that the maximum height
of the building could be 5 feet above that, or
37 feet. Staff. concurred. "Mr. Bill Laycock,
Current.Planning Administrator, stated. that the
plans show that the roof height is measured to
the 'top of a pitched roof. However, the sub-
mitted plans do not show an actual, natural
grade on the elevation.
• Commissioner Beek stated that a normal three -
story building would fit into this height limit,
unless there are unusual architectural features
incorporated into the design of this project.
In response to a question posed by Commissioner
Balalis, Mr. Burnham, Assistant City Attorney,
stated that based upon a review of the staff
report, there is not enough information to make
a determination that the final map is in sub-
stantial conformance with the tentative map.
The discussion opened in connection with this
item and Mr. Michael Weidman, architect, repre-
senting the applicant, appeared before the
Commission. Mr. Weidman stated that the 33 foot
average height of the building above the natural
grade, along with the maximum heich.tof an addi-
tional 5.feet, which measures 38 feet above the
natural grade, does not present a problem with
the architectural design of the project as sub-
mitted. He stated that the drainage study may
affect the pad elevation by 12 inches to 18
inches, or possibly the pad elevations may not
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be required to be raised at all. Mr. Weidman
requested the Commission's approval of this
project.
Commissioner Balalis asked Mr:.Wei.dman why they
are anxious for the approval of the final map,
in that a building permit can not be obtained
until the problems are resolved. Mr. Weidman
stated that they are requesting that the tract
map be approved so that they may record the map.
He stated that this project has gone through many
lengthy, governmental review processes, and that
they do not want further delays. He stated that
before this property was acquired by the City,
the project had been submitted for plan check
at the County of Orange and was ready to be per-
mitted.
.Commissioner Balalis stated.that the Commission
can not approve this tract map until all of the
conditions of approval, are meta Commissioner
Thomas stated that the drainage is a technical
•
issue, not.a.discretionary issue. Commissioner
Balalis stated that the Commission is concerned
that the pads be above the 100 -year flood level.
Mr. Weidman stated that they are trying to
accomplish.this and that the staff will have to
approve the drainage study when it is completed.
Mr. Weidman stated that the drainage study is
underway and should be completed a week from
tomorrow. Planning Director Hewicker stated
that the tract map will automatically go before
the City Council.
Commissioner Thomas.suggested that the project
meet.the 100 -year flood requirement prior to.
going to the City Council. Planning Director
Hewicker stated that if the 100 -year floor
provision requires the building to be altered,
it may no longer meet the requirements of the
use permit.
Chairman Haidinger suggested that this item be
removed from the calendar, until these problems
are resolved.
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Commissioner Allen stated that in a previous
resolution to the City Council, the Planning
Commission had stated that they do not want to
hear final tract maps, as the Commission has no
.discretion at this level. Planning Director
stated that the Commission has the discretion
to decide whether or not final tract maps are in
substantial conformance with the tentative tract
maps.
Commissioner Balalis suggested that the Commissio
deny the tract map, with the finding that Condi-
tion No. 17, which requires the drainage study,.
has not been complied with. He stated that in
the interim, the applicant will have the oppor-
tunity to resolve this problem before going to
the City Council level.
In response to a question posed by Commissioner
Beek, Mr. Weidman stated that they have met with
staff and have agreed to provide all of the
• information necessary before the building permits
are issued. Planning Director Hewicker stated
that staff is concerned with Condition No. 17
which deals with the drainage study.
In response to a question posed by Commissioner
Beek, Mr. Weidman stated that the average height
of the building will.be under 33 fee.t. Mr. .
Weidman also stated that the necessary approval
for the drainage plans on the project was sub-
mitted and signed as being approved, by the
County`s Drainage Engineer.
Planning.Director Hewicker stated that the City's
definition of a building pad is the lowest ele-
vation of the building, which in this case, is
the floor of.the parking garage. He also stated
that there is a.difference of opinion at the
County as to the definition of a building pad.
He added that as near as the staff can determine,
if.this project were to be built in accordance
with the plans approved by the County, water
would flow into the subterranean parking struc-
tures. The water level may be 1 foot to 3 1/2
feet deep...
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Mr. Weidman stated that the County's restriction
on the use permit is for a 100 -year flood. He
stated that the City's standard.is for a 25 -year
flood situation. Mr. Webb, Assistant .City Engine r,
concurred with Mr. Weidman, but stated.that.this
particular project is located in a sump area and
needs to be studied very carefully to ensure that
there will be no flooding.
Chairman Haidinger asked Mr. Weidman to respond
to Commissioner Balalis's.suggestion for denial.
Mr. Weidman stated that they would not be agree-
able to a denial, in that.it carries a negative
connotation.
Commissioner Beek stated that if the applicant
is to be required to raise the ground level, the
Commission should then establish a new arade
also, so that the grade can be measured from the
new ground level.
Vion X Motion was.made that the Planning Commission
determine, that the grade on this site is the
height in which the pads must be raised in order
to meet the flood requirement.
Commissioner McLaughlin asked legal counsel if
the Commission has such discretion on this matter
Mr. Burnham stated that this would be considered
as a separate action of the Commission. He state
that establishing grade would remove the staff's
concerns. He stated that approving the map
without establishing the height of the pads,
leads to the possibility of the building ex-
ceeding -the height limit.
Amendment X Chairman Hai.dinger suggested an amendment to
the motion to include a finding that the grade
is the new grade to meet the flood requirement.
Planning Director Hewicker explained to the
Commission the definition of the term grade. He
stated that if the Commission establishes grade
at that point which is required to elevate the
building pads above the 100 -year floor level,.
the building could then be built per the County's
• use permit approval.
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Acceptance X Commissioner Beek accepted the amendment to his
motion.
In response to a question posed by Commissioner
McLaughlin, Mr. Burnham stated that a finding
of this nature would support another finding that
the final map is .insubstantial conformance with
the tentative map.
Mrs, Louise Greeley, representing the Newport
Crest Homeowner's Association, appeared before
the Commission.; Mrs. Greeley stated that it is
very distressing to consider exceeding the height
limitation in this area. She stated that this
would be an unfortunate precedent to establish.
Commissioner Beek stated that it is only fair to
measure the height from where the 'ground level
is required to be. He stated that this would not
be exceeding the height limit.
• Chairman Haidinger stated that there are enough
uncertainties involved in this project and that
he will be voting against the motion. Commis -
sioner McLaughlin concurred and stated that she
would like to make a decision when the drainage
study is completed.
Substitute Substitute motion was made to continue this item
Motion for two weeks, directing the applicant to complet
Ayes X X the drainage study before the next meeting, which
Noes X- X MOTION CARRIED.
Motion X Motion was made to modify the Agenda, to hear
All Ayes X X X X X Item No. 2, Use Permit.No. 1977, as the last
item on the regular agenda, which MOTION CARRIED.
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Mr. Webb,..Assistant
City Engineer,
requested
Item #2
that Item
No. 2, Use Permit No. 1977,
be heard
later in
the agenda, so that he may.confer
with
To be
the .Assistant
City Attorney and the
applicant's
heard
attorney.
i;% t nn
Motion X Motion was made to modify the Agenda, to hear
All Ayes X X X X X Item No. 2, Use Permit.No. 1977, as the last
item on the regular agenda, which MOTION CARRIED.
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Request to create one parcel of land where Item
three lots presently exist so as to permit the
1 111 construction of a commercial office building in
the M -1 -A . .District. „r�iin
LOCATION:. Lots 14, 15 and 16-of Tract No.
3201 located at 4000 -4020 Campus
Drive, on the southeasterly side of
Campus Drive between Quail Street
and Dove Street across from the
John Wayne Airport.
ZONE:- M -1 -A
APPLICANT: Pacesetter Homes, Inc.
Newport Beach
OWNER: The Irvine Company
ENGINEER: Church Engineering, Newport Beach
The public hearing opened in connection with
this item and Mr. Steve Strauss, representing
Pacesetter Homes, Inc., appeared before the
Commission and requested approval of this
resubdivision.
Motion
llllll Motion was made for approval of Resubdivision.No.
All Ayes x x x x x 679 with the findings and.conditions of Exhibit
"A" as follows, which MOTION CARRIED:
That the map meets the requirements of Title
19 of the Newport Beach Municipal Code, all
ordinances of the City, all applicable
general or specific plans and the Planning
Commission is satisfied.with the plan of
subdivision.
2. That the proposed resubdivision presents no
problems from a planning standpoint.
CONDITIONS:
• 1. That a parcel map be filed.
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2. That all improvements be constructed as re-
quired by Ordinance and the Public Works
Department.
3. That all conditions of approval of the
Traffic Study prepared in conjunction with
the development of this site shall be met.
4. That approximately 80 sq. ft. of deteriorated
P.C.C. sidewalk be reconstructed along Campus
Drive.
5. That the on -site parking lay -out be approved
.by the Public. Works Department.
6. That arrangements be made with the Public
Works Department to guarantee satisfactory
completion of the public improvements if it
is desired to record the parcel map or obtain
a building permit prior to completing the
required public improvements.
Request to establish a private, off - street
commercial parking lot in the R -2 District. A
modification to the Zoning Code is also requested
inasmuch as a landscape planter encroaches to
the rear property line (where the Ordinance does
Item #4
USE PERMIT
N0. 1976
not permit any obstruction within five (5) feet .
of the rear property line adjacent to a fourteen
(14) foot wide alley).
DENIED
LOCATION:. Lot 15, Block I of Tract 323,
located at.410 Jasmine Avenue on
the easterly side of Jasmine Avenue
between.East Coast Highway and Bay-
side Drive in Corona del Mar.
ZONE:. R -2
APPLICANT: Richard K. Natland, Newport Beach
OWNER: Jeff Schulein, Corona del Mar
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In response to a question posed by Commissioner
Allen, Planning Director Hewicker stated that
this application is a request for additional
parking, not required parking.
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Commissioner Beek stated that the zoning in this
case is not consistent with the General Plan.
Planning Director Hewicker explained the history
of the zoning in this area. He stated that the
property could be rezoned to a commercial distric
or the Commission.can retain their discretionary
control on the property by not changing.:the
existing residential designation.
Commi- ssioner Balalis stated that it will be
difficult to determine if this parking is justi-
fied, since the Specific Area Plan for Corona
del Mar has not yet been completed. He.also
stated that this request will be encroaching
into a residential area. Commissioner McLaughlin
concurred.
The public hearing opened in connection with
this item and Mr. Richard Natland, the.applicant,
appeared before the Commission. Mr. Natland
stated that the Corona del Mar Chamber of Com-
merce has approved this request, but:that he
had not received as yet, a formal letter of
approval.
Commissioner Allen told Mr. Natland that the
Commission appreciates the offer for additional
parking. However., she stated that this property
may not be the proper.location for the parking.
She suggested that Mr. Natland offer his input
when the'Specific Area Plan for Corona is heard,
by the Commission.
Chairman Haidinger asked why this additional
parking is being requested. Mr. Natland stated
that Crown' Hardware is desirous of expanding
their parking.
Mr. David Marrero, resident of 408 Jasmine Avenue
appeared before the Commission in opposition to'.
this request. Mr. Marrero stated that the
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majority of the residents in the area are opposed
to this request. He stated that the parking lot
will encroach upon an existing 'R -2 development..
He stated that there.is adequate parking in.the
area; in that there is a public parking lot which
is located less than one block away from the
hardware store. He stated that he has suggested
to the hardware store that their employees park
in the public lot, thereby leaving the spaces
open on the street for the customers. He stated
that approval of this parking lot will create a
detriment to the neighborhood with the additional
traffic, noise and nighttime lighting it will be
generating. He also stated. that the residents
are concerned with the hours of operation and
delivery schedules involved with this parki.ng
lot for the hardware store, as these were not
specified in the conditions for approval of this
request.
Commissioner Allen stated that citizen input is
needed in the Specific Area Plan.for Corona del
Mar and requested. that Mr. Marrero and his
neighbors participate. She stated that the
entire commercial str.i:p is being analyzed and.
that citzen input, particularly from residents
in the buffer zone is needed.
Ms. Joan Barry, resident of 1039 Baja Street,
Laguna Beach, appeared before the Commission in
opposition to this request. Ms. Barry stated
that the adjacent R -2 properties will become .
devalued because.of the parking lot. She also
stated that the hardware store may decide to
expand its facility,, once they have obtained
the additional parking.
Mr. Ken Wirgler,.property owner of 413 Jasmine
Avenue, appeared in opposition to this request.
Mr. Wirgler stated that it is true that more
parking is needed in the Corona del Mar Area,
but stated that a parking lot encroaching into
an R -2 development is not the answer. He stated
that the parking lot will create a detriment to
the surrounding residential properties.
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Motion
X
Motion was
made to deny
Use Permit No. 1976,
subject to
the findings
of Exhibit "B ".
MINUTES
Commissioner Balalis stated that a major concern
in the Corona del Mar area is retaining the
neighborhood /service commercial uses -and parking
for the community. He stated that utilizing lots
adjacent to the business district for additional
parking needs is a solution to the problem. He
stated that the City parking lots are not neces-
sarily the answer to the problem. He suggested
that this item be continued until the parking
situation can be studied further.
Ayes 1XIX11 X Commissioner McLaughlin's motion for denial o€
Noes Use Permit No. 1976, subject to the findings of
Exhibit "B" as follows, was now voted on, which
MOTION CARRIED:
FINDINGS:
• 1. That the proposed parking lot use will be
incompatible with.the adjacent residential
neighborhood due to the increased noise and
traffic associated with a commercial parking
lot on the site.
2. That the proposed project represents a
gradual encroachment of commercially related
activities into an established residential
area.
3. That the establishment of a landscape planter
in the required five foot alley setback will,
under the circumstances of the particular cas
-be detrimental to the health, safety, peace,
comfort and general welfare of persons re-
siding or working in the neighborhood of
such proposed use and be detrimental or
injurious to property and improvements in
the neighborhood or.the general welfare of
the City, and further that the proposed modi-
fication is not consistent with the legisla-
tive intent of Title 20 of the Municipal Code
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4. That approval of Use Permit No. 1976 will,
under the circumstances of this case, be
detrimental to the health, safety, peace,
morals, comfort and general welfare of
persons residing or working in the neigh
b.orhood and be detrimental or injurious to
property or improvements fin the neighborhood
and the general welfare of the City.
Commissioner Beek suggested that the zoning on
this property be brought.into conformance with
the General Plan. Chairman Haidinger stated
that this would require a General Plan Amendment.
Planning Director Hewicker stated that the Com-
mission would have to initiate a hearing to
change the General.Plan..designation on this
property. Chairman Haidinger requested staff
to bring this item back to the Commission for
their determination.
Review of.the conditions attached to the approval Item #5
of Use Permit.No. 1857 which permitted the con-
struction of the Bank of Newport headquarters' USE PER
complex, A ncluding the drive -up teller facility, NO. 185
flag poles and residential condominium units.
LOCATION: Parcel No. 1, Parcel Map 152 -28,
29 (Resubdivision No. 659), lo-
cated at 2101 East Coast Highway,
on the southerly side of East
Coast Highway, westerly of
Avocado Avenue,. adjacent to Ir-
vine Terrace (Bank of Newport
Headquarters' Complex).
ZONE: C -1
OWNER: Bank of Newport, Newport Beach
REVIEW
INITIATED BY: The Planning Commission
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Chairman Haidinger and Commissioner Balalis
stated that they would not be participating in
this item, nor casting any votes, due to possible
conflicts of interest.
Planning Director Hewicker referred to the staff
report on this discussion item and presented
background information. He stated that there
appears to be three areas of concern from the
residents of Irvine Terrace. First, the resi-
dents have indicated that the existing wall along
the Zahma Drive side of the Bank site should be
raised to six feet from.grade bn the Bank side
to protect their privacy from the commercial
development. He stated that the.Bank has placed
additional landscaping.in front of the wall to
address these concerns. He stated that perhaps.
the Bank should introduce additional landscaping
to the west side of the wall to provide additiona
privacy to the residents.
• Secondly, Planning.Director Hewicker stated that
the wall sign on the west side of the building
is of concern to the residents. He stated that
there is no condition of approval on the use
permit that prohibits this .type of sign for a C -1
zone. He stated that the sign ordinance does
restrict the amount of illumination for nighttime
brightness. However, he stated that this parti-
cular standard is difficult to enforce. He
stated that the Bank.has made an effort to reduce
the level of brightness in the sign and have also
put the siqn on a timer, to be turned off at
7:30 D.M.
0
Third, Planning Director Hewicker stated that the
lighting in the parking lot is a problem for the
residents. He stated that he had personally
approved the plans for the lighting in the parkin
lot which included the fixtures and the screens
for the perimeter of the site. He stated that
he must agree with the residents of the area
that the lighting in the parking lot is most
offensive. He stated that the Bank has installed
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test panels of clear bronze and white opaque
glass in one of the lights, to reduce the
lighting. He stated that the Bank has decided
to install the white opaque glass in the lighting
fixtures to remedy this problem. In addition,
the Bank has decided to install obscure black
glass on the sides of the fixtures adjacent to
Irvine Terrace and to the back of the property.
He added that this has not been done, as yet.
Planning Director Hewicker stated that if there
can not be an agreement reached by the City and
the Bank of Newport, the Planning Commission has
the discretion to make the finding.that the
Bank is not adhering to the conditions of approva
of the use permit. The Commission could then
request that the Use permit.be set for public
hearing to consider revocation of same.
The discussion opened in.connection with this
item and Mr. Paul Ruffing, the architect of the
building, appeared before the Commission. Mr.
• Ruffing stated that the glass had been cut and is
ready to be installed into the lighting fixtures,
but that the rain this week has delayed the in-
stallation. He stated that the installation of
the opaque glass should reduce the glare of the
lighting substantially. He stated that the Bank
has reduced the lighting from a 175 watt lamp
to a 100 watt lamp, which is a significant de-
crease. He stated that the lights in the parking
lot are on a time clock and after a certain hour,
the majority of the lights are turned off, and
only the security lights remain on..
In response to a question posed by Commissioner
McLaughlin, Mr. Ruffing stated that he did not
know if a criteria existed for the number of
security lights to be utilized around a bank.
In response to a question posed by Commissioner
Allen, Mr. Ruffing stated that he is not pre-
pared this evening to address the issue of
raising the height of the wall.
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Mrs. Eleanor Forsyth, property owner adjacent to
the Bank of Newport, appeared before the Commis-
sion in opposition to the use permit. Mrs.
Forsyth stated that the Bank of Newport is not
in compliance with Use Permit No. 1857 and its
obligations to the community of Newport Beach.
She stated that the parking lot lighting should
be redesigned, as the brilliant intensity and
excessive numbers of these lights show no concern
for the adjacent residential uses. She stated
that the lighting was not designed to conform
with the Use Permit direction that the lighting
shall be directed away from residential uses.
She stated that the transluscent glass coverings
have yet to be installed and evaluated..
Mrs. Forsyth stated that the 200 sq. ft. in-
ternally lighted sign directly facing the resi-
dential.area should be removed, not just turned
off. She stated that the sign did not appear on
the plan originally submitted and was subsequentl
• approved under a.general C -1 ordinance without
review by the affected citizens, Commission or
Council .members. She stated that the lights from
an internally lighted sign.ca.n in no way be
directed away from the residential uses as re
quired in the use permit. She stated that
turning off.the sign light alone is not adqquate
because the.visual impact of a large sign in a
residential area is detrimental to property
values and the personal well being of the resi-
dents .
Mrs. Forsyth stated that the internal lighting
of unused offices.should be softened by drapes
or turned off. She stated that these lights are
frequently on late at night and that their
sources are high and directly visible.
Mrs. Forsyth stated that the height of the wall
adjacent to Irvine Terrace has been inadequate -
from'its inception. She stated that the resi-
dents'original request for a six foot wall was
rejected on the grounds of aesthetic appearance,
yet the Bank built a 7 1/2 foot wall on the other
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side of the parking lot where they desired visual
shielding. She also stated that the residents
requested that the.wrought iron openings be
changed to a solid visual and accoustical barrier
She stated that this was not done, but that the
additional recent pl.antings,.as the result of
the Community Association's requests, have been
helpful.
Mrs. Forsyth stated that the residents of Irvine
Terrace felt that the Bank would be a reasonable
and welcome neighbor to their community. She
stated that the conditions under which the Bank
of Newport.was permitted to build,.should now be
enforced and that the Bank of Newport live up
to its community responsibilities.
Commissioner Thomas concurred with Mrs. Forsyth's
comments regarding the lighting and .asked for
her comments as to how the.Commission should
enforce this, or.if the Commission should start
. proceedings to revoke the use permit. Mrs.
Forsyth stated that other developments have been
able to design their lighting so as to not be
objectionable to the surrounding residents, by
designing the lights low with caps over them.
She stated that the Bank sign is highly obnoxious
in the residential area. Commissioner Thomas
suggested that perhaps the Bank of Newport needs
to renegotiate these improvements through the
use permit process.
Commissioner. Beek commended Mrs. Forsyth for her
perseverance. He.asked Mrs. Forsyth if it is
her desire to have a 1. to 1/2 foot solid barrier
installed on the top of the existing wall.
Mrs. Forsyth stated that they are requesting
a solid wall because the parking lot is a public
area. She stated that her home activities are
entirely visible and on display to the general
public.
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Commissioner Beek asked Mrs. Forsyth if it would
be possible for the residents of the area and th.e
Bank of Newport.to reach an agreement. Mrs.
Forsyth stated that this would depend on the Bank
as the Bank has shown no willingness to talk
about removing the sign.
Commissioner McLaughlin asked Mrs. Forsyth if
there have been any efforts by the Bank of Newpor
since November 19, 1980, to comply with the re-
quests of the homeowners. Mrs. Forsyth stated
that the Bank has dimmed the parking lot lights,
which.has been helpful.
.In response to a question.posed by Commissioner
McLaughlin, Planning Director Hewicker stated
that the negotiation on the wall height was
originally between the homeowner's association
and the Bank, which.would raise the wall from
4 feet to 5 feet. He stated that the wall was
built at 4 1/2 feet. He added that from his
• own observation, the wall should be raised to
6 feet to provide the residents with the pro-
tection that they are requesting. He stated
that there is no condition included in the
approved use permit to require that this be done.
He also stated that there is no condition in
the use permit for the illumination of the sign.
Mr. Elmer Cote, attorney representing the resi-
dents of Irvi.ne Terrace,.appeared before the
Commission. Mr..Cote stated that failure by
the Bank of Newport to comply with the conditions
of the use permit forms the basis for the home-
owners complaints. He stated that the solutions
that have been requested by the homeowners would
not cause a detriment to the Bank or its opera-
tions; and would be at a.very little expense.
He stated that the extension to the wall could
be accomplished with very little difficulty. He
stated that the security needs could dictate
the requirements for the parking lot lighting
in the evening, along with additional shielding
to direct the light away from the residential
area. He stated that there will have to be
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compromises made on the part of the Bank, regard-
ing the sign. He also stated that the homeowners
efforts to resolve these problems with the'Bank
have failed.
Commissioner Allen asked Mr. Cote if the actual,
physical appearance of the sign is 'a serious
problem, or if the removal of the illumination
in the sign would resolve the concern. Mr. Cote
stated that the sign is facing Chubasco Way and
that the mere physical presence of the sign is
detrimental to the residential neighborhood.
He questioned the potential, value of the sign,
as he stated that it is not visible from Pacific
Coast Highway because of the many trees. He
added that the Bank would not suffer a great
advertising detriment in the.removal of the sign,
as compared to the benefits that would be de-
rived 'by the residents of the area by its removal
Mr. Bill East, resident of Irvine Terrace, ap-
• peared before the Commission. Mr. East stated
that the sign is only visible from Chubasco
Drive and that the .Bank could receive only
minima °l commercial value from the sign. He
stated that the sign is offensive to the resi-
dents during the day and in the evening.
In response to a question posed by Commissioner
McLaughlin, Mr. Ruffing stated that the Bank
has met, to the letter, the conditions of the
use permit. He stated that they had submitted
a lighting plan.to the City, which received
approval He also stated that the signs are in
conformance with the City Codes. He stated that
there was no condition for the height of the
walls placed in the use permit. He suggested
that a meeting be arranged between the Bank of
Newport and the staff to discuss the grievances
mentioned tonight.
Commissioner Beek stated that in.order to get
the Bank of Newport's attention, the Commission
should schedule a hearing for revocation of the
use permit for the second meeting in April. He
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stated that this will give all parties concerned,
ample time to negotiate and resolve these concern
Motion 'X' Motion was made to set the revocation of Use
Ayes X X X X Permit No. 1857 for April 23, 1981, which MOTION
Abstain X CARRIED.
Request to permit the expansion of an existing.
restaurant facility with on -sale alcoholic
beverages (formerly Chuck's Steak House). A
modification to the Zoning Code is also requested
since the proposed and existing development en-
croaches into the required front yard setback
along West Coast Highway. The proposal also
includes a modification from the required parking
standards so as to allow tandem spaces.
• LOCATION: A portion of Lot A, Tract No. 919,
located at.2332 West Coast Highway
on the northerly side of West
Coast Highway, easterly of Tustin
Avenue, in the Mariner's Mile
Specific Plan.Area.
ZONE: SP -5
APPLICANT: . Dave Alderman, Malibu
OWNER: Sadie M. Stegmann, Newport Beach
Planning Director Hewicker stated that the
following, additional.F.indings of Approval and
Revised Condition-No. 12 are suggested by the
City Attorney's office:
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6. That the proposed project will generate
a significant amount of vehicle trips on
Coast Highway in the vicinity of the
restaurant. .
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March 5, 1981 MINUTES
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7. That the vehicle trips and traffic gener-
ated by the project is sufficient to
warrant the condition of approval that
the applicant dedicate 12 feet of right -
of -way to accommodate the..widening of
Coast.H,ighway in the vicinity of the
restaurant.
REUSED CONDITION NO. 12:
12. Prior to.the issuance of a building permit
the applicant shall provide for the dedi-
cation of 12 feet of right -of -way along
the southerly boundary of the property to
allow for widening of West Coast Highway..
In response to a question posed by Chairman
Haidinger, Mr. Burnham, Assistant City Attorney,
stated that the revised Condition No. 12 states
that the applicant shall provide for the dedi-
cation, as opposed to actually dedicating same.
• He stated that the applicant in this case, is
not the owner of the property.
0
Planning Director Hewicker stated that the
following additional Conditions of Approval are
recommended by the Planning Department:
CONDITIONS:
15. That a .landscape and irrigation plan
shall be prepared and implemented for
the subject project in accordance with
the requirements of the Mariners' Mile
Specific Area plan and shall be perman-
ently maintained.
16. The landscape plan shall be subject to
the review of the Parks, Beaches and
Recreation Department and approval of
the Planning Commission.
Planning Director Hewicker stated that Condition
Nos. 15 and 16 are designed to meet the require-
ments of the Mariners' Mile Specific Area Plan.
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of Newport Beach
The public hearing opened in connection With this
item and Mr. Paul Shoop, the.attorney representin
the applicant, appeared before the Commission..
Mr. Shoop stated that the City is asking for
dedication of property that his client does not
own. He stated that the applicant will be in=
vesting one -half of a million dollars into this -
development which will be providing jobs for
people and revenue to the City. He stated that
the Fifth Amendment of the Constitution states
that private property will not be taken for
public use without just compensation. He stated
that private enterprises are being destroyed
when they become so regulated. He stated that
the applicant is willing to dedicate to the City
the tenants interest in the development.
Mr. Shoop suggested that the revised Condition
No. 12 include the wording "dedication of the
applicant's interest in the 12 feet of right -of-
way. . ." He stated that when Coast Highway
is widened, there will be only 12 feet of fronta
on this property that the City will have to buy,
because the applicant would have already dedi-
cated to the City his interest in the building
improvements.
Mr. Shoop referred to the additional findings
regarding the traffic generation and stated that
they are only proposing an additional 12 percent
of square footage to an existing development.
He stated that this proposed expansion will not
add 5 to 7 percent of the traffic on Coast High-
way. He stated that an incremental increase of
only 12 percent in square footage will only add
12 percent of the 5 percent increase in traffic
generation.
Mr. Shoop referred to Condition No. 2 of the
staff report and asked for clarification. Plan -
ning Director Hewicker stated that this condition
would not allow the portion of the structure
under the.porch within the 12 feet of right -of-
way to be dedicated to be enclosed. Mr. Shoop
asked if the rational for this is to avoid
paying more money when Coast Highway is widened.
Mr. 6urnham stated that this was correct. Mr. Shoop stated
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the City would gain more in sales tax from an
additional table in the restaurant, than it would
cost for the City to condemn it. He stated that
not being allowed to build in this portion
diminishes the applicants ability to serve the
customers.
Mr. Shoop requested that Condition Nos. 2 and 13
be deleted and that Revised Condition No. 12
indicate the'. "applicant's interest" in the
dedication.
In response to a question posed by Chairman
Haidinger, Planning Director Hewicker stated
that a use permit woul.d not be required for an
existing restaurant if the applicant were not
proposing to expand the net public area or its
operational characteristics. However, he stated
that the applicant in this case is proposing to
expand the net public area. He also stated that
staff questions as to whether or not the former
• restaurant use on the site has been abandoned.
He stated that the applicant has completely
gutted the interior of the building and that they
have not maintained a business license with the
City.
Mr. Shoop stated that there are no architectural
plans on record for this building, therefore,
the applicant had no understanding of its
structural members. In anticipation of re-
modeling the building, the applicant had the
interior.wall coverings removed. He stated that
at this point, the owner filed a lawsuit against
the applicant. He stated that approval of this
use permit will allow the applicant to begin
with the remodeling. He added that the archi-
tect of the project is also present.to answer
any of the Commission's questions.
In response to a question posed by Commissioner
Allen, Mr. Webb, Assisant City.fngineer, stated
that right -of -way dedications adjacent to Master
P.l.annedarterial streets are recommended by the
Public Works Department-in situations such as
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this as'well as resubdivisions. Mr. Burnham
stated that a finding would still have to made
that the project the applicant is proposing,
creates a need for the dedication.
Motion X Motion was made to approve Use Permit No. 1977
with the findings and conditions as contained
in the original staff report, Exhibit "A" and
as modified by the staff this evening.
Amendment Amendment to the motion was made that the re-
vised Condition No. 12 be modified to read,
"12) Prior to the issuance of a building permit,
12 feet of right -of -way along the southerly
boundary of the property shall be dedicated to
the City to allow for the widening of West Coast
Highway. He stated that in this way, the con-
dition does not indicate who will be dedicating
the right -of -way.
•
Commissioner Balalis asked what the applicant
can do, in the event that the property owner is
not willing to give or sell the dedication to
the City. Chairman Haidinger stated that the
applicant can rebuild the restaurant using the
same dimensions as was used in the prior resta-
urant use.
Commissioner Balalis stated that he is not op-
posed to the City obtaining.dedications but,
stated that the applicant is only proposing an
additional 12 percent of square footage to an
existing building. Commissioner Cokas concurred
wi.th Commissioner Balalis's statements and
stated that.the applicant does not even own the
12 feet of dedi cation that is being required.
Commissioner.Allen referred.to Condition No.
and stated that the applicant should not be
able to make improvements in the West Coast
Highway right -of -way.
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Commissioner Beek stated that the City should be
firm as to requiring the dedication. Mr. Shoop
stated that the property owner does not care that
the property will be improved, and therefore,
does not care about the dedication.
Commissioner McLaughlin asked for clarification
as to what will occur if the revised Condition
No.'12 is deleted. Chairman Haidinger stated
that the City would then not own the 12 feet
of right -of -way and would have to condemn and
pay the owner for the rights to that portion.
Mr. Webb stated that if the dedication is not
to be required, he.recommended that all of the
rights of the applicant be dedicated d; as was
offered by Mr. Shoop. Mr. Shoop clarified and
stated that Condition No..12 should then read,
"That the applicants interest in the 12 feet
of additional right -of -way be dedicated for
street and highway purposes. ."
In response to a question posed by Commissioner
Balali -s, Mr. Burnham stated that it would not be
necessary to include a condition that the appli-
cant will not oppose the widening of West Coast
Highway. Mr. Burnham stated that it his under-
standing that the applicant is giving all of
his interest in the lease hold and improvements
that may be located in the 12 feet.
Amendment X Commissioner McLaughlin-stated that she would
like to amend Condition No. 12 as stated by
Commissioner Balalis. Chairman Haidinger stated
that this would now not require the dedication
of the right -of -way, but only the.interest
that the applicant has in the right -of -way.
Commissioner Cokas asked if this 'change would
affect the additional Finding No. 7. Mr. Burn-
ham stated that Finding Nos. 6 and 7 are, in
effect, contingent upon a determination that
the restaurant use was abandoned. Chairman
Haidinger asked if Finding No. 7 can be based
upon the expansion of the restaurant. Mr.
Burnham concurred, but stated that it could
• only be made by a lesser degree. Chairman
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Haidinger stated that Finding No. 7 should inr
clude the wording, "the applicant dedicate its
interest in the 12 feet. . ."
Commissioner Beek stated that he did not approve
of the last amendment to Condition No. 12 and
stated that the dedication should be required.
Amendment JJ X Amendment to the motion.was made to approve
Ayes X X. Use Permit No, 1977 as originally stated, ex-
Noes X X X eluding the last amendment relating to Condition
Abstain X No. 12, which was now voted on, which AMENDMENT
FAILED.
All Ayes X X 11 Commissioner McLaughlin's amended motion for
approval of Use Permit No. 1977 was now voted
1111 11 on, which MOTION CARRIED.
Mr. Shoop referred to Condition No. 13 and stated
• that this should have been deleted or revised,
in that Condition No. 12 has been revised. Mr.
Burnham concurred and stated that since the
property owner is not being required to dedi-
cate the 12 feet, the lessee would not have
the.power to remove the bulding as required by
Condition No. 13. Mr. Burnham suggested that
Condition No. 13 be deleted.
Motion JJJJ X Motion was made to reconsider Use Permit No.
Ayes X X X X 1977, which MOTION CARRIED.'
Noes
Motion X Motion was made for the adoption of Use Permit
All Ayes X X X X No. 1977 as previously approved, with the dele-
tion of Condition No. 13, which MOTION CARRIED
as follows:
FINDINGS:
1. The proposed restaurant is consistent with
the General Plan and is compatible with
surrounding land uses..
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2. The Police Department has indicated that they
do not contemplate any problems..
3. The project will not have any significant,
environmental impact:
4. That the establishment, maintenance, or '
operation of the use of the property or
building will not, under the circumstances
of the particular case, be detrimental to
the health, safety, peace, comfort, and
general welfare of persons residing or
working in the neighborhood of such proposed
use or be detrimental or injurious to pro-
perty and improvements in the neighborhood
or the general welfare of the City and furthe
that the proposed modification for the tandem
parking spaces with valet service is con-
sistent with the legislative intent of Title
20 of the Municipal Code.
5. The approval of Use Permit No. 1977 will not,
under the circumstances of this case, be
detrimental to the health, safety, peace,
morals, comfort and general welfare, of per-
sons residing and working in the neighbor-
hood or be detrimental or injurious to
property and improvements in the neighbor-
hood or the general welfare of the City.
6. That the proposed project will generate a
significant amount.of vehicle trips on
Coast Highway in the vicinity of the
restaurant.
7. That the vehicle trips and traffic generated
by the project is sufficient to warrant the
condition of approval that the applicant
dedicate its i.nterest in the 12 feet of
right -of -way to .accommodate the widening
of Coast Highway in the vicinity of the
restaurant.
CONDITIONS:
1. That development shall be.in substantial
• conformance with the approved plans, except
as noted below.
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March 5, 1981
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2. That the proposed restaurant addition shall
maintain a minimum 12 foot setback from the
existing right -of -way line of West Coast
Highway.
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3. That a minimum of one parking space for each
40 sq. ft. of "net public area" shall be
provided for both the restaurant and bar.
4. That valet parking shall be provided during
all hours.of operation of the proposed
restaurant and bar.
5. That all valet parking shall be accomplished
on site.
6. That all mechanical.equipment and trash areas
shall be screened.from public streets, or
.adjoining properties.
7. That all unpaved portions of the proposed
• parking area shall be fully improved and
all deteriorated portions of existing paving
shall be repaired subject to the approval of
the City Traffic Engineer.
8. That parking spaces Nos. 67 -69 shall be
deleted from the parking plan so as to allow
adequate turning area for vehicles entering
and leaving Coast Highway.
9. That.any parking lot lighting shall be de-
signed so as to eliminate any light or glare
upon surrounding properties.
•
10. That P.C.C. sidewalk be completed along the
West Coast Highway frontage, and that a
standard P.C.C. commercial drive approach.be
constructed. All work within the West Coast
Highway right -of -way shall be completed under
an encroachment permit from Caltrans..
11. That a standard use permit.agreement and
accompanying surety be provided, if it is
desired to obtain a building permit prior
to completing the public improvement.
ffim
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12. Prior to the issuance of a building permit.,,
the applicant's interest in the additional
12 feet of right -of -way along the southerly
boundary of the property shall be dedicated
to the public to allow for the widening of
West Coast Highway..
13. That kitchen exhaust fans shall be designed
to control odors and smoke in accordance
with Rule 401 of the Rules and Regulations
of the South Coast Air Quality Management
District. In addition,.the kitchen hood
system shall have an automatic fire pro-
tection system installed.
14. That a landscape and irrigation plan shall
be prepared and implemented for the sub-
ject project in accordance with the require-
the Mariners' Mile Specific Area
Plan and shall be permanently maintained.
. 16. The landscape plan. shall be subject to the
review of the Parks, Beaches, and Recre-
ation Department and approval of the Plannin
Commissioner.
ADDITIONAL BUSINESS
General Plan Ame- ndment No. 80 -3
Commissioner Allen requested that the 1300 seat
dinner theater proposed for the Civic Plaza
Planned Community be addressed in the staff
report for General Plan Amendment No. 80 -3.
Planning Director.Hewicker stated that a'.site
plan review would be required for the restaurant
site. He also stated that the staff report on.
the General Plan Amendment would clarify this
item.
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Aeronutronic Ford Planned Community
Commissioner Thomas requested review of the
grading and silt control's in conjunction with
residential development in the Aeronutronic Ford
Planned Community for the Tentative Map of Tract
No. 10391. He stated that the silt basins are
full and ready to breach. He suggested that
this be reviewed to determine if it is in con-
formance with the regulations and if not, to
consider revoking the bond. Commissioner Mc-
Laughlin concurred.
Commissioner Balalis suggested that more
stringent cleaning requirements should be estab-
lished in the Grading Ordinance.
Chairman Haidinger requested a report back to
the Commission on this item. Planning Director
Hewicker suggested that Jim Lorman of the
• Building Department make a report to the Com-
mission at the next study session..
Chairman Haidinger stated that Commissioner
Balalis's suggestion on reviewing the Grading
Ordinance could be handled at a study session,
after the in-lieu parking item. He stated
that Commissioner Thomas's request for review
of the grading and silt controls should be
heard at the Commission's.next evening meeting.
Planning Director Hewicker stated that the owner
of the project, J. M. Peters and,Company, will
be contacted.
Excused Absence
Motion X Motion was made for an excused absence for Com-
All Ayes X X X X X missioner Cokas from the.Planning Commission
Meeting of March 19, 1981, which MOTION CARRIED.
There being no further business, the Planning
Commission adjourned at 10:35 p.m.
George Cokas, Secretary
11111111 Planning Commission
City of Newport Beach
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