HomeMy WebLinkAbout08/21/2014 - Planning Commision CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES
Council Chambers—100 Civic Center Drive
Thursday,August 21, 2014
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—Chair Tucker
III. ROLL CALL
PRESENT: Brown, Hillgren, Koetting, Lawler, Myers, and Tucker
ABSENT: Kramer
Staff Present: Brenda Wisneski, Deputy Community Development Director; Michael Torres, Assistant City
Attorney; Tony Brine, City Traffic Engineer; Patrick Alford, Planning Program Manager; Jim Campbell, Principal
Planner; Ben Zdeba,Assistant Planner; and Marlene Burns,Administrative Assistant
PUBLIC COMMENTS
Chair Tucker invited those interested in addressing the Planning Commission on items not on the agenda, to do
so at this time.
Seeing no one wishing to address the Planning Commission, Chair Tucker closed public comments.
IV. REQUEST FOR CONTINUANCES-None
V. CONSENT ITEMS
ITEM NO. 1 MINUTES OF AUGUST 11,2014
Recommended Action: Approve and file
Chair Tucker reported that he submitted changes to the minutes of August 11, 2014, as well as Mr.Jim Mosher.
Motion made by Chair Tucker and seconded by Secretary Myers and carried (6 — 0) to approve the study
session meeting minutes of August 11,2014,as corrected.
AYES: Brown, Hillgren, Koetting, Lawler, Myers, and Tucker
NOES: None
ABSTENTIONS: None
ABSENT: Kramer
Vl. PUBLIC HEARING ITEMS
ITEM NO.2 SANCHO'S TACOS MINOR USE PERMIT APPEAL(PA2014-058)
Site Location: 3014 Balboa Boulevard
Principal Planner Jim Campbell provided a PowerPoint presentation highlighting the location, surrounding
properties, a description of the proposed project, existing conditions, existing permits, maximum number of
seats, hours of operation, outdoor patios, and approval of the Minor Use Permit by the Zoning Administrator. He
indicated that the appeal was filed by Council Member Mike Henn because of limited parking, adjacency to
residential properties, high concentrations of licenses in the area and higher-than-average crime rates in the
Page 1 of 10
NEWPORT BEACH PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES 8/21/14
area. Mr. Campbell reported that staff looked at the operational character and recommended approval. He
added that the Planning Commission is not bound by the decision of the Zoning Administrator and that this is a
de novo hearing. He addressed recommendations and stated that if desired, the Planning Commission could
make modifications and approve the project.
In response to Commissioner Koetting's inquiry, Mr. Campbell reported that prior to the present use, the property
was Gallo's Deli and that he is not familiar with uses prior to that. He noted that it has been a food-service use
since 1996.
In reply to Commissioner Hillgren's question, Mr.Campbell addressed the required parking. He reported that the
existing parking onsite is the required parking for this use per a determination made in 1996. Today, parking
requirements would depend on the operational character given to this use and square footage and would be in
the range of ten (10) to twenty(20) parking spaces. Based on seat counts, the parking ratio would be one (1)
space for every three (3) seats. He stressed that at this point, they have the right to operate the restaurant with
up to twenty(20)seats without providing additional parking. The issue at hand relates to the service of alcohol.
Commissioner Hillgren commented on the existing use in terms of parking and the need for additional parking.
He asked regarding restrictions relative to the distance between an alcohol-serving establishment and residential
uses. Mr. Campbell reported there are no distance restrictions.
Chair Tucker opened the Public Hearing.
George Schroeder reported that the prior sandwich shop was fairly popular and commented on the service of
beer and wine being an intensification of use as these cannot be served "to go". He added that under the
previous use, people would park in a nearby parking lot but that since Sancho's has been operating, there are
signs in the area indicating "No Sancho's parking". He reported that the existing Chipotle serves beer and wine,
but only inside and not on the patio. He urged the Planning Commission to reject the application for the service
of beer and wine at Sancho's. He distributed photographs of current violations at the establishment.
Drew Whetherholt reported that in 1996, the Planning Commission denied alcohol service for this establishment
because of the proximity to residential properties. He reported that the property used to be a single-family home,
then a cookie shop and then a sandwich shop, prior to the present use. He reported that the sandwich shop had
shorter hours of operation and complained of trash and noise generated from Sancho's. He expressed
opposition to allowing alcohol service at the property and believed it would be an intensification of the use and in
an area that already has a problem with alcohol. He added that beer and wine would only encourage customers
to stay longer in the area and become louder. He commented on parking problems and on the number of
alcohol licenses currently in the area as well as the amount of alcohol related crimes. Additionally, he reported
that according to the Police Department, an ABC license would be denied because of the problems with their
other establishment in the downtown area of Huntington Beach. He encouraged the Planning Commission to
deny the application.
Ken Stoddard expressed opposition to the application to allow Sancho's to serve alcohol. He addressed the
large number of ABC licenses in the district and felt that allowing alcohol service would further degrade the
quality of life for residents as well as further burden the Police Department. He commented on the City allowing
the Zoning Administrator to make these types of decisions and felt this important matter should not be decided
by a single City employee but rather in an open forum at a Planning Commission meeting. He urged the
Planning Commission to deny the application.
Brent Barbata commented on complaints regarding noise and trash and noted that none of the complaints
pertained to the service of alcohol, but rather are general objections to the restaurant, itself. In terms of parking,
he noted that it does not relate to the service of alcohol as driving should not be encouraged of drinking
customers. He added that the objections are critical of the restaurant and not specific to the desired ABC
license. He commented on issues that are related to alcohol use and stated there is no evidence that the
increase in alcohol use in the area creates more crime as the crime rate in the district has dropped since 1990.
He reported that people being arrested for disorderly conduct are coming from house parties or other events in
existing venues. He urged the Planning Commission to approve the application noting that Sancho's has a right
to operate their business as they please and have not broken any contracts, violated any promise or defrauded
anyone.
Page 2 of 10
NEWPORT BEACH PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES 8/21/14
Erin Dominick noted she is sensitive to the proximity to residential uses but agreed with the prior speaker in
support of the ABC license for Sancho's. She commented on the proliferation of large bars in the area and
reported that a small restaurant that closes at 9:00 p.m.would not have a large impact on crime. She added that
if Chipotle can serve alcohol, then why would the City not allow same in and support a family-owned business.
She reported that the owners have proven their success, that not everyone stays to eat, but take their food "to
go" and that people will not go there specifically to drink. She stated that it will be in the best interest of the
community to support local businesses. She reported that the signs prohibiting parking for Sancho's customers
were there for the prior sandwich shop as well and the matter is not relevant to the argument,
Matt Bridges stated he was surprised that the matter was appealed and addressed parking challenges
throughout the City. He commented about the crime rate in the district and reported that the application has
been reviewed by the Police Department and that they have no issues with it. He encouraged the Planning
Commission to approve the application, especially since it pertains to a local, small business competing with
existing large establishments.
Donnie Lancaster, applicant, reported they do not allow smoking and addressed parking issues and noise and
stated that there is no amplified music outside the restaurant. He addressed their trash enclosure and stated
that they will abide by all conditions of approval, Additionally, he noted that he and his wife take a lot of pride in
the area and keeping it clean. He commented that he will better control vendor deliveries and the operation and
flexibility of their businesses. He stressed his desire to make his customers happy and be able to provide what
they want.
In response to Commissioner Koetting's inquiry, Mr. Lancaster noted that it is a family business run by him and
his wife and that his son takes care of ordering for both restaurants.
In reply to Commissioner Hillgren's inquiry, Mr. Lancaster reported they will not be offering keg beer and agreed
to limit alcohol service to indoors only. He indicated that he would accept a condition that would require his staff
to be trained in terms of alcohol service.
Seeing no other speakers; Chair Tucker closed the Public Hearing.
Chair Tucker noted there is no Operators License due because of the hours of operation. In response to his
inquiry, Mr. Campbell affirmed that the use permit would run with the land. Chair Tucker expressed concerns
regarding the unknown quality of the next operator. He addressed the City's noise ordinance and reported that if
a user violates same, Code Enforcement action will be taken. Parking issues are not before the Commission at
this time nor is the issue of smoking.
Commissioner Myers agreed with Chair Tucker's comments as well as with limiting the sale and consumption of
alcohol to the inside of the restaurant.
Commissioner Lawler agreed adding that complementary businesses in the area already have this advantage
and he does not see why this would not be granted to a family-owned business. Additionally, he agreed to
prohibit keg beer (so pitchers could not be served) and limit the consumption of alcohol to the inside of the
restaurant.
Chair Tucker suggested adding a finding that the Planning Commission would not approve extending the hours
of operation. The Commissioners unanimously agreed if the proposal had included an extension of the hours of
operation the Commission would not be in favor of the application.
Discussion followed regarding the size of the required screen partition and the possibility of allowing alcohol on a
trial basis and/or requiring a review after a specified amount of time.
Motion made by Commissioner Lawler and seconded by Commissioner Myers and carried (6 — 0) to adopt a
draft resolution for approval to uphold the Zoning Administrator's decision and approve Modification Permit
No. MD2013-023 with additional conditions regarding the prohibition of keg beer, limiting alcohol service to
the inside of the restaurant only and requiring training of staff regarding alcohol service. Additionally, a
Page 3 of 10
NEWPORT BEACH PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES 8121/14
finding should be added that the Planning Commission would not have approved the application if it had
proposed extending the hours of operation.
AYES: Brown, Hillgren, Koetting, Lawler, Myers, and Tucker
NOES: None
ABSTENTIONS: None
ABSENT: Kramer
ITEM NO.3 A-FRAME SIGN REGULATIONS (PA2014-054)
Site Location: City-wide
Planning Program Manager Patrick Alford provided a PowerPoint presentation defining A-frame signs, providing
examples, a summary of the proposed regulations, and depicting how they may function in various commercial
areas.
In response to Commissioner Hillgren's questions, Mr.Alford reported on distinctions between where the private
property ends and the public right-of-way begins. He added that if necessary, the City Surveyor may take
appropriate measurements and make appropriate determinations relative to where the signs can be located.
Commissioner Hillgren opined that it would be impractical as it relates to Code issues.
Commissioner Koetting asked regarding businesses located on second floors and Mr. Alford reported that they
would be permitted an A-frame sign if they have a common entrance on the ground floor. He added that it may
become a matter to be addressed between landlords and their tenants.
Chair Tucker expressed concerns with the possible proliferation of signs in commercial areas and in public
rights-of-way.
Commissioner Hillgren commented on residents of Balboa Island requesting that A-frame signs not be permitted
on Marine Avenue.
Chair Tucker noted that the right-of-way is heavily used on Balboa Island.
Chair Tucker opened the Public Hearing.
W. R. Dildine expressed concerns with the number of objects in the public right-of-way on Balboa. He stated
that every property owner should know where their property line is and noted challenges with Code Enforcement
being short-handed.
Jim Mosher referenced written comments he submitted earlier today specifically regarding one section of the
proposed code (Section 20.42.090(G)(7)(F) that seems to be "grammatically botched". He stated he offered
three (3)suggested alternatives for increased clarity.
Seeing no other speakers; Chair Tucker closed the Public Hearing.
Commissioner Lawler stated it seems like a good idea, but expressed sympathy with the public right-of-way
issue.
Chair Tucker noted that the proposal is for A-frame signs to only be allowed on private property and not in the
public right-of-way. He added that the concept sounds fine, but the practicality is questionable.
Commissioner Brown wondered if there is a way to require that before a business is allowed to place an A-frame
sign they are aware of where the private property ends and the public right-of-way begins.
Deputy Community Development Director Brenda Wisneski reported that the best way to address the issue is to
require a sign permit for the A-frame sign.
Commissioner Koetting agreed with requiring a sign permit to ensure that it will be of the proper design and
appropriate location. Additionally, it would act as a tool for Code Enforcement.
Page 4 of 10
NEWPORT BEACH PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES 8/21/14
Commissioner Hillgren stated that A-frame signs, if done well,can make for an interesting walk down a sidewalk.
He stated that over regulating them would be overkill. He expressed concerns with proliferation and suggested
there should be one permitted, per address as a way to regulate the numbers.
Chair Tucker questioned whether landlords want to be in the business of deciding which tenant of a multi-tenant
building would be the one to get to have an A-frame sign.
Commissioner Hillgren commented on Code Enforcement and asked whether there could be a review provision
within a specified time.
Chair Tucker stated that a review after a trial period would work in a use permit context but would not work well
With a code amendment.
Secretary Myers felt that the proliferation of signs in front of a multi-tenant building will create a problem and that
requiring a landlord to regulate them will be difficult. He agreed that issuing permits for A-frame signs would be
overkill but noted that it would be good to have guidelines. He stated he is not in favor of the matter.
Chair Tucker suggested that since the matter would probably be going to the Council regardless (since they
initiated the potential code amendment)that the Commission should clean up some of the language and agreed
with Mr. Mosher's comments regarding subsection 7F recommending that the section number be stated at the
beginning of the section after "in compliance with". He suggested changes to subsection7E as "A-frame signs
shall be designed so as to remain upright in a moderate wind".
Deputy Community Development Wisneski clarified that the code amendment language indicates that if the
Planning Commission decides to not approve the amendment, the item dies at the Planning Commission level
unless it is appealed to the City Council.
Commissioner Hillgren confirmed that this is applicable to all commercial properties throughout the City and was
requested by merchants in Corona del Mar. He asked whether there is merit in limiting it to the Corona del Mar
area.
Mr. Alford confirmed that the amendment could be written to limit it to the Corona del Mar area. He added that
currently, they are prohibited City-wide, including shopping centers, with the general exception for signs not
visible from the public right-of-way.
Discussion followed regarding restrictions in shopping centers and the need to comply with the center's sign
restrictions.
Commissioner Hillgren noted that he would limit the amendment to Corona del Mar rather than City-wide. He
added that if the program is successful, it could be implemented City-wide.
Chair Tucker argued against passing regulations that only applied to one area in the City. He suggested making
no recommendation rather than confine the change to just one area of town.
Motion made by Commissioner Hillgren to adopt a resolution recommending City Council adoption of Code
Amendment No. CA2014-005 establishing A-Frame sign regulations in Corona del Mar and with the
proposed language modifications.
Substitute motion made by Commissioner Lawler to adopt a resolution recommending City Council adoption
of Code Amendment No. CA2014-005 establishing A-Frame sign regulations with the proposed language
modifications. The Substitute motion died for lack of a second.
Discussion followed regarding existing regulations that apply to specific areas in the City such as parking in
Balboa Island. Mr. Alford noted there are examples within the code that are limited to certain geographic
areas. Chair Tucker did not see that as a comparable example.
Commissioner Hillgren restated his original motion.
Page 5 of 10
NEWPORT BEACH PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES 8/21114
Motion made by Commissioner Hillgren and seconded by Secretary Myers and carried (4 — 2) to adopt a
resolution recommending City Council adoption of Code Amendment No. CA2014-005 establishing A-Frame
sign regulations in Corona del Mar and with the proposed language modifications discussed.
AYES: Brown, Hillgren, Koetting, and Myers
NOES: Lawler and Tucker
ABSTENTIONS: None
ABSENT: Kramer
VII. STUDY SESSION ITEMS
ITEM NO.4 NONCONFORMING STRUCTURES CODE REVIEW(PA2014-083)
Site Location: City-wide
Chair Tucker noted this is a Study Session item meaning that no action will be taken by the Planning
Commission at this time.
Assistant Planner Ben Zdeba provided a presentation including background, a prior variance request related to
the matter, denial by the Planning Commission and subsequent appeal to Council. He reported that it was heard
by Council but the item was continued indefinitely and directed staff to review the Municipal Code relative to
nonconforming structures, specifically smaller structures. He addressed the purpose of the nonconforming
chapter; specific criteria referenced and details of options discussed by staff. He outlined next steps and offered
to respond to questions.
In response to Commissioner Myer's inquiry regarding staffs preferred option, Mr. Zdeba stated that staff would
prefer Option Nos. 2 or 3 as stated in the report noting that Option No. 3 gives additional leeway by way of a
discretionary review in the case where there is a nonconforming portion of the property that might encroach on
one side making the structure nonconforming and allows for a case-by-case review of a property.
In reply to Commissioner Hillgren's question, Mr.Zdeba addressed examples of nonconforming structures noting
there are a variety of different development standards within the residential zoning district section of the code.
He added that nonconforming structures and the scope of the discussion primarily involve setback
encroachments and over height structures.
Commissioner Hillgren reiterated the intent and purpose of the nonconforming section of the code and stated an
interest in finding a way to help property owners who wish to bring nonconforming properties closer to
conformance. Mr. Zdeba indicated the options identified would help to encourage the addition of conforming
parking and also commented on the possibility of not supporting requests for increased offenses in terms of
nonconformance.
Chair Tucker touched on the background of the item and noted there could be an inequity wherein a property
owner with a larger structure built earlier on can add more square footage and develop the property further than
a property owner with a smaller structure built earlier on with similar nonconforming conditions. But he further
expressed concern with implementing a discretionary procedure to allow an addition up to 75 percent stating that
it could prevent the purpose of encouraging conformance.
Commissioner Hillgren discussed adding garages to address situations where parking is the nonconforming
issue and whether or not the new addition of parking would increase the total allowable addition with the 50
percent limitation.
Mr. Zdeba noted that staff considered stipulating a specific maximum square footage that could be excluded
from a garage depending on the number of parking spaces added. In response to Commissioner Koetting's
inquiry, he clarified Option No. 4 noting that it eliminates the discrimination between a smaller structure and
larger structure, but that staff had concerns with this option because there are areas of the City that are regulated
by lot coverage and others regulated by string-line policies.
Page 6 of 10
NEWPORT BEACH PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES 8/21/14
Chair Tucker opened public comments.
W. R. Dildine reported that there are only two of these properties that are in trouble. One property, near him, has
to abate its commercial use and another one that was demolished that complies with the current code. He
added there is possibly one in the 800 block. He suggested that something could be done to ease the pain of
the property owners in allowing them to redevelop their properties.
John Loomis, architect for the project that triggered this discussion, thanked staff and the Commission for
reviewing this matter. He stated that the existing regulation penalizes smaller property owners and commented
on Option No. 2 noting that in following same, the property would still be about 1,000 square feet below the
average property in the block. He encouraged the Planning Commission to consider either Option Nos. 3 or 4.
He added that in his case, the nonconformity was created by a Zoning District change. He added that there are
other people that could benefit from this change as well.
Chair Tucker closed public comments.
Chair Tucker stated he would like to see a more complete staff report that details the options in order to be
prepared to vote next time.
Ms. Wisneski stated that staff will bring the matter back as a Public Hearing item with documents presenting
options for the Planning Commission to consider.
Chair Tucker agreed and commented on the possibility of staff generating other options in the process of writing
the staff report.
Commissioner Hillgren stated he believes in merit-based approvals and encouraged finding ways in which
properties can become more conforming.
Ms. Wisneski reported that the matter will return to the Planning Commission at its second meeting in October
and will be properly noticed.
Commissioner Koetting requested examples of cases that have and have not worked.
Chair Tucker declared that the item will be heard by the Planning Commission at its second meeting in October.
ITEM NO. 5 BALBOA VILLAGE PARKING MANAGEMENT (PA2014-016)
Site Location: Area west of Balboa Village between 7th Street and Adams Street
Deputy Community Development Director Wisneski introduced the item noting that Balboa Village has been
undergoing a revitalization effort in the last two (2) years and addressed the Citizens' Advisory Panel and the
Balboa Village Advisory Committee. The panel generated the Balboa Village Master Plan which includes a
component related to parking as well as revitalization for beautifying the area. She reported the attendance of
some of the committee members and deferred to staff for a report.
Principal Planner Campbell presented details of the Balboa Village Parking Management Plan addressing the
on-going effort to revitalize the Village, adoption of the Balboa Village Master Plan, implementation strategies
outlined in the staff report and considering parking in the Village, holistically. He described the creation of the
Balboa Village Parking Management District, creation of a parking benefit district and a shared parking district,
elimination of parking requirements for commercial businesses, results of a study by Nelson\Nygaard and
maintaining the existing parking resources and using them more effectively. He discussed the creation of a
voluntary parking permit for employees, suspending in-lieu parking fees, modifying meter rates, the possibility of
commercial validation and offering resident off-street parking discounts.
In response to Chair Tucker's question, Mr. Campbell identified the items that are under the jurisdiction of the
Planning Commission. Chair Tucker noted that the Commission has a very narrow part of the policy decision
that will be made.
Page 7 of 10
NEWPORT BEACH PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES 8121114
Mr. Campbell discussed the boundary of the proposed parking management district and reported that the
biggest change would be to eliminate off-street parking requirements for all uses in that district with the exception
of excursion services operating on the water and the marinas and would not change parking requirements for
residential uses.
Commissioner Hillgren commented positively on the concept of shared parking but noted that it typically requires
cooperation and management. He asked regarding enforcement over the management area.
Mr. Campbell noted there are different ways of doing so and commented on engaging property owners to see if
they would be willing to allow public use of some of their spaces. There may be cooperative agreements that
could be entered into to allow public use of the spaces. He added that another part of shared parking would
involve a business-to-business relationship that could be used during off-hours.
Discussion followed regarding evaluation of parking spaces in the summer and winter times and Mr. Campbell
stated that the available parking pool can support existing uses. Mr. Campbell added that care needs to be
taken about diminishing existing parking.
Ensuing discussion pertained to differentiating parking for excursion services and other uses in the Village, Ms.
Wisneski reported that the intent is for long-term visitors to park in larger lots where rates will be less expensive
than street lots and they will be permitted to park in overnight areas.
Mr, Campbell provided examples where there would be a Minor or Conditional Use Permit for a change of use
that would be subject to discretionary review and environmental review. Staff would look at whether it would be
an appropriate use at the particular location. He added that parking wouldn't be a factor as there would be no
required parking.
Ms. Wisneski added that the Committee thought it very important for the programs to be monitored over time.
The intent is to try the programs out and adjust them over time, if needed depending on the intensity of
development that may occur.
Chair Tucker addressed a comment made in an email from Shelly Trainor who observed that when free parking
is replaced with overnight permits, ,non-residents driven out of the residential areas will park free, overnight, for
extended stays on Balboa Island. He stated that would be something that needs to be considered.
Commissioner Brown stated that he is unsure whether reducing the rate will encourage employees to pay and
that they will still park where it is free. He felt that something comparable and free will need to be provided to
discourage employees from parking in residential neighborhoods.
Mr. Campbell addressed the Resident Parking Permit Program noting that it was resident-driven. He addressed
location and existing challenges. He reported that residents have requested an overnight parking program and
addressed the area involved, phasing and recommendations. He added that a daytime program is not
something that the Coastal Commission would likely allow. He provided details of the program including guest
passes for guests. The permit would not guarantee a space on the street but would allow residents the privilege
to park on the street, overnight, He summarized that the idea is to get people who should not be parking in the
residential area overnight to park in the commercial village. This would allow some parking spaces to be freed
up for the benefit of the residents.
Chair Tucker opened public comments.
George Schroeder indicated he supports this effort and revitalizing downtown. He noted that different uses
create different parking requirements and expressed concerns with the proposed residential permit parking
program because of the early starting time. He added that there are residents throughout the area that want
parking permits.
Jim Stratton, Balboa Village Advisory Committee Member, stated he understands the concerns of those who are
opposed to the resident permit parking and noted that there is a unique situation west of the Village in that it is a
free-parking area and residents from all over Newport Beach would like to park in free-parking areas. He
reported that the area is about 700 parking spaces short of what is needed.
Page 8 of 10
NEWPORT BEACH PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES 8/21/14
In response to Chair Tucker's inquiry, Mr. Stratton commented on commercial intensification noting that it would
create more parking demand and would have to be reviewed on a case-by-case basis. He reported that the
majority of the commercial areas are non-conforming in that they do not have parking and have been
grandfathered in. Only a small percentage was required to pay in-lieu fees and the Committee felt that was not
fair since the majority of business were not required to do so. The amount of money generated was not enough
to pay for the administration of in-lieu fees. He stated that the likelihood of substantial intensification is minimal.
Additionally, he commented on reports for which the City has paid a lot of money to study parking in the Village,
All of them have recommended some type of permit parking or parking relief for residents west of the Village.
Deanna Schnabel opined that parking requirements cannot be eliminated until the parking permit program is in
place. She commented on the impacts to parking by the ExplorOcean expansion and on residents subsidizing
businesses. She noted that the program is unique to the area in terms of beach parking lots and that parking
has not been excluded but has been redirected to available public parking. She commented on areas that are
underutilized and reiterated the parking permit program needs to precede the elimination of parking
requirements.
Howard Hall commented that spillover parking from Balboa Village does not impact the western portion of the
resident parking permit program. He added that is why he proposed Medina Way as the boundary of the district
but that he was ignored. He reported that residents were not asked whether they were affected by people
parking from Balboa and expressed concerns with the early starting time of the parking permit program.
Additionally, he commented on employee parking in the median noting that it does not affect residents of east
Newport.
Chair Tucker closed public comments. He noted when the matter comes back to the Commission, the
Commission will only consider the narrow portion of the parking management proposal that the Commission has the
authority to vote on, but that the study session was helpful for the Commission to understand the entirety of the
Balboa Village parking debate.
Staff was directed to schedule a Public Hearing for September 4, 2014.
VIII. STAFF AND COMMISSIONER ITEMS
ITEM NO.6 MOTION FOR RECONSIDERATION -None
ITEM NO.7 COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR'S REPORT
Ms. Wisneski noted that the Planning Commission approved the Amendment to the Port Theater Conditional
Use Permit and that the item was called up by Council Member Gardner and is scheduled for the City Council
meeting of September 9, 2014. Additionally, she addressed the Planning Commission tentative schedule and
noted Items to be discussed at upcoming meetings. She reported that the date of the Planning Commission
October 9,2014 meeting has been changed to October 2, 2014.
Chair Tucker suggested the possibility of consolidating the September 4th and September 18th meetings,
depending on the number of items to be addressed.
Staff will look into the matter.
1. Update on the General Plan/Local Coastal Program Implementation Committee
Ms.Wisneski addressed items to be discussed at the next General Plan/Local Coastal Program Implementation
Committee meeting, She added that the Planning Commission will review this matter possibly in late fall.
2. Update on City Council Items
Page 9 of 10
NEWPORT BEACH PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES 8/21/14
ITEM NO. 8 ANNOUNCEMENTS ON MATTERS THAT THE PLANNING COMMISSION MEMBERS
WOULD LIKE PLACED ON A FUTURE AGENDA FOR DISCUSSION, ACTION, OR
REPORT
Chair Tucker commented on parking on Balboa Island and Ms. Wisneski reported that there is not the pool of
parking available on the Island as there is in the Village. Chair Tucker stated he would like the matter brought
before the Planning Commission at some point in the near future. Additionally, he requested a study session on
the Balboa Marina West project in order to ensure the Commission and public understand the issues involved
before having to vote on the matter.
ITEM NO. 9 REQUESTS FOR EXCUSED ABSENCES
Commissioner Hillgren requested an excused absence for the Planning Commission meeting of September
18, 2014.
Ilk ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business to come before the Planning Commission, the meeting was adjourned at
9:02 p.m.
The agenda for the Regular Meeting was posted on August 28, 2014, at 5:21 p.m., in the binder and on the City Hall
Electronic Bulletin Board located in the entrance of the Council Chambers at 100 Civic Center Drive.
J
Larry Tuc er, Chair
Ja My s, S cre+ary
Page 10 of 10