HomeMy WebLinkAboutPC_Minutes_1990_12_04MINUTES OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING OF THE CITY OF HERMOSA BEACH
} HELD ON DECEMBER 4, 1990, AT 7:00 P.M. IN THE CITY HALL COUNCIL CHAMBERS
Meeting called to order at 7:03 P .M. by Chmn. Ketz.
Pledge of Allegiance led by Comm. Rue.
ROLL CALL
Present:
Absent:
Comms. Aleks, Marks, Peirce, Rue, Chmn. Ketz
None
Also Present: Michael Schubach, Planning Director: Edward Lee, Assistant City
Attorney: Sally White, Recording Secretary
CONSENT CALENDAR
MOTION by Comm. Rue, seconded by Comm. Aleks, to approve as submitted the following
consent calendar items:
Planning Commission minutes of November 20, 1990:
Resolution P.C. 90-89, A RESOLUTION OF THE PI.ANNING COMMISSION OF THE CI1Y OF
HERMOSA BEACH, CALIFORNIA, APPROVING A CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT, VESTING
TENTATIVE PARCEL MAP #22634, AND PRECISE DEVELOPMENT PI.AN FOR A 1WO-UNIT
CONDOMINIUM AT 138-142 MANHA'ITAN AVENUE, LEGALLY DESCRIBED AS LOT 6, TRACT
NO. 1123:
Resolution P.C. 90-90 A RESOLUTION OF THE PI.ANNING COMMISSION OF THE CI1Y OF
HERMOSA BEACH, CALIFORNIA, APPROVING A CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT, VESTING
TENTATIVE PARCEL MAP #22635, AND PRECISE DEVELOPMENT PI.AN FOR A 1WO-UNIT
CONDOMINIUM AT 144-148 MANHA'ITAN AVENUE, LEGALLY DESCRIBED AS LOT 7, TRACT
NO. 1123:
Resolution P.C. 90-91, A RESOLUTION OF THE PI.ANNING COMMISSION OF THE CI1Y OF
HERMOSA BEACH, CALIFORNIA, APPROVING A CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT, VESTING
TENTATIVE PARCEL MAP #22636, AND PRECISE DEVELOPMENT PI.AN FOR A 1WO-UNIT
CONDOMINIUM AT 150-154 MANHA'ITAN AVENUE, LEGALLY DESCRIBED AS LOT 8 TRACT
NO. 1123:
Resolution P.C. 90-92, A RESOLUTION OF THE PI.ANNING COMMISSION OF THE CI1Y OF
HERMOSA BEACH, CALIFORNIA, APPROVING A CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT, VESTING
TENTATIVE PARCEL MAP #22637, AND PRECISE DEVELOPMENT PLAN FOR A 1WO-UNIT
CONDOMINIUM AT 158-160 MANHA'ITAN AVENUE, LEGALLY DESCRIBED AS LOT 9, TRACT
NO. 1123:
Resolution P.C. 90-96, A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CI1Y OF
HERMOSA BEACH, CALIFORNIA, APPROVING A CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT TO ALLOW OFF-
SALE GENERAL ALCOHOL IN CONJUNCTION WITH A GROCERY MARKET, AND ADOPTION OF
AN ENVIRONMENTAL NEGATIVE DECLARATION FOR 2510 PACIFIC COAST HIGHWAY,
LUCKY STORES, AND LEGALLY DESCRIBED AS LOT 2, BLOCK 83, SECOND ADDITION TO
HERMOSA BEACH:
Resolution P.C. 90-97, A RESOLUTION OF THE PI.ANNING COMMISSION OF THE CI1Y OF
HERMOSA BEACH, CALIFORNIA, APPROVING A CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT, PRECISE
DEVELOPMENT PLAN, AND TENTATIVE PARCEL MAP #22409 FOR A 1WO-UNIT
1 P.C. Minutes 12/ 4/90
CONDOMINIUM AT 619 101H STREET, LEGALLY DESCRIBED AS A PORTION OF LOT 4, BWCK
78, SECOND ADDIDON TO HERMOSA BEACH;
Resolution P.C. 90-102, A RESOLlITION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CI1Y OF
HERMOSA BEACH, CALIFORNIA, APPROVING A PRECISE DEVEWPMENT PLAN FOR A 1WO-
STORY, 13,675 SQUARE FOOT RETAIL BUILDING AND ADOPTION OF AN ENVIRONMENTAL
NEGATIVE DECLARATION AT 1414 PACIFIC COAST HIGHWAY AND LEGALLY DESCRIBED
AS LOTS 28, 29, AND 30, HEFFNER, FIORINI, AND ALLEN TRACT.
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
Comms. Aleks, Marks, Peirce, Rue, Chmn. Ketz
None
None
None
COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE PUBLIC
No one appeared to address the Commission.
CUP 90-16 -CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT FOR OFF-SALE BEER AND WINE AT AN EXISTING
ESTABLISHMENT ALREADY LICENSED BY A.B,C, AND ADOPTION OF AN ENVIRONMENTAL
NEGATIVE DECLARATION AT 828 HERMOSA AVENUE, JAY'S MARKET
Mr. Schubach gave staff report dated November 27, 1990, and recommended approval of the
requested conditional use permit, subject to the conditions specified in the proposed
resolution.
This project is located in the C-2 zone, with a general plan designation of general commercial.
The lot size is 6000 square feet. The building size is 3200 square feet, with 1800 square feet for
the market. The current use is as a grocery store with off-sale beer and wine. There are seven
parking spaces shared with Hermosa Pizza and Ansha's Hair Care.
Jay's Market is located on the east side of Hermosa Avenue between 8th and 9th Street. It
shares the building and the lot with two other businesses, occupying 56 percent of the building
space. The market is open from 9:00 AM. until 10:00 P.M. during the week and until 11:00 P.M.
on the weekends.
Jay's Market is one of the remaining businesses which has not obtained a conditional use
permit subject to the alcohol amortization ordinance.
At their meeting of October 18, 1990, the staff environmental review committee recommended
an environmental negative declaration and recommended that the Planning Commission
require the applicant/ owner to place the refuse cans inside an enclosure and to reduce window
signage to the maximum of 20 percent.
The requested CUP would authorize the continued off-sale beer and wine from the premises.
Staff's concerns are minor in nature. The area located behind the building is used for storage of
trash which is contained in standard residential-type containers without lids, and several
boxes and other larger trash items are simply piled up behind the store. Also, the window
stgnage appears to be excessive.
Since this is an existing grocery market/ off-sale beer and wine business, staff felt that the sale
of beer and wine should be allowed to continue, subject to the proposed conditions which are
limited to the standard conditions of the zoning ordinance and conditions related to the trash
and s:tgnage. The standard conditions include a provision to require single can purchases to be
packaged in clear bags. The Police Department has also requested that an additional standard
2 P.C. Minutes 12/ 4/90
condition be included to require alcohol sale establishments to participate in the EASY
(Eliminate Alcohol Sales to Youth) Program.
Comm. Rue asked for additional information on the EASY Program, to which Mr. Schubach
explained that owners are required to ensure that no alcoholic beverages are sold to minors.
Signs to that effect are required to be posted, and purchasers are required to show their ID. He
concluded by stating that he will provide more information about the EASY Program as
requested by Comm. Rue.
Public Hearing opened at 7:07 P .M. by Chmn. Ketz.
Sung Kil Park, 828 Hermosa Avenue, applicant. addressed the Commission and: ( 1) said that
he has not read the staff report: however, he agreed with what was said by Mr. Schubach; (2) in
response to questions from Comm. Rue, said that he has no problem with reducing the signage
as required in the CUP: (3) said that he will not sell or rent X-rated videos; (4) stated that he will
comply with the requirements of the EASY Program.
Public Hearing closed at 7:09 P.M. by Chmn. Ketz.
Comm. Rue favored approval of the request, noting that he agrees with the objectives of the
EASY Program.
MOTION by Comm. Rue, seconded by Comm. Peirce, to approve staffs recommendation,
Resolution P.C. 90-101, as written.
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN :
Comms. Aleks, Marks, Peirce, Rue, Chmn. Ketz
None
None
None
CUP 90-18 -CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT FOR OFF-sALE GENERAL ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES
AT AN EXISTING ESTABLISHMENT ALREADY LICENSED BY ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE
CONTROL AND ADOPTION OF AN ENVIRONMENTAL NEGATIVE DECLARATION AT 2
HERMOSA AVENUE, MARINA LIQUOR
Mr. Schubach gave staff report dated November 27, 1990, and recommended approval of the
requested CUP, subject to the conditions specified in the proposed resolution.
The project is located in the C-1 zone, with a general plan designation of neighborhood
commercial. The lot size is 6000 square feet, with a building size of 2400 square feet on the
ground floor. The current use is as a liquor store/deli with three apartments above. There are
six parking spaces.
Marina Liquor is located on the northeast comer of Hermosa Avenue and Herondo Street. It
shares the building with three apartments located on the second floor. The apartments have
their own parking in garages accessed from the alley. The store is open from 10:00 AM. until
midnight during the week and until 2:00 AM. on weekends. The building exterior was
improved in 1977 as part of an interior and exterior remodel that resulted in the mansard roof
and stucco front.
Marina Liquor is one of the remaining existing businesses selling alcoholic beverages subject
to the alcohol amortization ordinance which has not obtained a conditional use permit.
At their meeting of October 18, 1990, the staff environmental review committee recommended
an environmental negative declaration and recommended that the Planning Commission
require the applicant/ owner to provide an enclosure for the trash dumpster: restrtpe the
3 P.C. Minutes 12/4/90
parking lot; recondition or replace all signs, provide a time limit parking sign; and require
) participation in the EASY Program.
The required CUP would authorize the continued off-sale of general alcohol from the premises.
Staffs concerns relate to the overall appearance of the site and to the parking lot. The business
is located at one of the major entrances to the City and is highly visible. As such, staff felt that
the appearance of this site is an important public concern.
Staff mentioned several concerns. The existing nonconforming pole sign (which is
nonconforming to height and square footage for the C-1 zone) is in disrepair and is showing
serious problems of rust and dilapidation. Also, the southward facing wall sign which says
simply "Liquor'' is rusted and in need of repair. There is also a painted wall sign in the rear
which specifies brand names, and this stgn is faded and seems out of date.
Staff recommended conditions that the pole sign and wall signs be removed and replaced with
conforming signs or that they be completely reconditioned. The Commission may feel it is
appropriate to require their removal and require complete conformance; however, staff
recommended reconditioning as an option since this is an existing use and no intensification
of the business is being requested.
Staff also recommended a condition that the east-facing painted wall sign be eliminated.
The trash dumpster is located on the south side of the building and is open to public view and is
often placed where it encroaches into the sidewalk. As such, staff recommended a condition to
properly enclose the dumpster on private property to hide it from view.
The parking lot striping is almost completely faded; therefore, staff recommended a condition
for restriping.
The Police Department recommended that a time limit sign be provided in the parking lot to
limit parking time to 15 minutes.
The newspaper racks are visible from the south and add to the clutter of the site. Staff
therefore recommended a condition that the newspaper racks be screened with appropriate
landscaping and/or a low-level wall of a material and color compatible with the building.
Alternatively, the newspaper racks may be removed or relocated and suitably screened at
another location on the site.
Since this is an existing liquor store, staff felt that the sale of general alcohol should be
allowed to continue, subject to the proposed conditions.
Public Hearing opened at 7:15 P.M. by Chmn. Ketz.
Pam Ricketts, 24405 Lackney Avenue, Wilmington, applicant, addressed the Commission and:
( 1) stated that they are in the process of completing the requirements; (2) discussed the large
sign, asking whether the top part of the sign can be cut off t o leave only the portion which says
"Liquor," and she questioned whether the sign would be in conformance.
Mr. Schubach explained that before answering specific questions related to the sign. it would
be necessazy for him to have more information on the sign, such as height and sign area. He
also stated that the sign itself is actually within the pwview of the Building Department. He
noted, however, that the Planning Commission addresses all planning and zoning issues when
looking at conditional use permits. He said that he would be happy to work with the applicant
on the issue of the sign.
Ms. Ricketts continued and: (1) discussed the dumpster, explaining that she has obtained a
smaller one which is placed on private property; (2) said that she would like to enclose the
4 P.C. Minutes 12/4/90
dumpster so that it is out of view: (3) explained that the trash pick-up company is concerned
with the trash removal because the sidewalk area has buckled and it is therefore difficult to
maneuver the dumpster: (4) said that the buckling appears to be caused by the roots of a large
tree which is on City property: (5) expressed concern that the raised sidewalk could also cause
problems for pedestrians and bicyclists.
Mr. Schubach stated that the Public Works Department can be notified that the sidewalk needs
to be repaired.
Ms. Ricketts went on and: ( 1) said that the parking area has been restriped: (2) said that the
back wall has almost been finished: (3) said that she is still looking for signs, which are
required: (4) 1n response to how long this project will take to complete, explained that she needs
to obtain estimates on the repair of the large sign: (5) said that the sign repair will be very
expensive; (6) noted that this is the slowest season of the year for her business, and a large
expenditure at this time would be a burden.
Ms. Ricketts, in response to questions from Comm. Rue, explained that they have obtained a
smaller trash can which is on private property. They are now awaiting a resolution of the
problem of the buckled sidewalk before the dumpster is screened.
Comm. Rue discussed the signage, stating that a large sign with only the word "Liquor" would
not be appropriate. He felt that the word "Marina" with the anchor logo adds to the appearance
of the sign, and he favored their retention.
Comm. Rue discussed the newspaper racks and asked what the applicant intends to do about
them.
Ms. Ricketts explained that she was not clear as to what the Commission wants done with the
newspaper racks. She felt that screening would be inappropriate since people want to see the
papers themselves.
Comm. Rue explained that the Commission is concerned about the street elevation from
Herondo and also going north on Hermosa Avenue. He suggested that the racks be turned
around so that they face the parking area.
Ms. Ricketts stated that the racks could be turned around to face the parking area, to which Mr.
Schubach stated that some landscaping would be desirable. He stated that he could work with
the applicant on this issue.
Comm. Rue agreed that landscaping would be nice along the south exposure of the property. He
stated that a simple boxwood hedge would be acceptable.
Public Hearing closed at 7:23 P.M. by Chmn. Ketz.
Comm. Rue agreed that business is very slow at this time of year. He therefore had no objection
to giving the applicant nine months to a year to comply with the requirements. He not ed that
this is an existing business, and the City is requiring a number of things to be done. He felt that
it would be appropriate to have a six-month review: all work could then be required to be
completed within one year. He did not feel that the landscaping would be a major project. He
felt that relocating the newspaper racks is appropriate. He felt that the major items in the CUP
relate to the parking lot, the landscaping, and the sign. He understood that the sign will be
quite expensive.
Comm. Peirce favored retaining the anchor logo on the sign.
Comm. Aleks questioned whether one year is necessary for completion of the requirements.
He felt that most of the items can be completed in a shorter period of time, and he noted that
improvements tend to improve business.
5 P.C. Minutes 12/4/90
Comm. Rue asked whether the current sign is in structural danger. He felt that 1f the sign must
be replaced, the grandfathering of the old sign would no longer apply. and a new sign would
have to conform to the current sign ordtnance. If the current sign is structurally sound, he felt
it should be cleaned up but rematn as is.
Chmn. Ketz felt that the sign should conform to the current ordinance.
MOTION by Chmn. Ketz, seconded by Comm. Peirce, to approve staff's recommendation,
Resolution P.C. 90-103, with the stipulation that all conditions must be met within six
months, with the exception of the condition related to the sign, which shall be completed
withtn one year and must be tn conformance with the current sign ordinance requirements.
Ms. Ricketts stated that business is very slow right now. and it would be very expensive to
replace the sign at this time.
Comm. Peirce stated that even a reduction tn the height of the sign would be very expensive
because it would be necessary to hire a crane. He felt, however. that the sign should be in
conformance with the current requirements, especially since this is a highly visible location
from the south. He noted that the current sign is quite old.
Comm. Rue noted that 1f the current sign were brought tnto conformance by reducing the height
of the poles, the sign itself would practically be on the ground.
Comm. Rue questioned whether the issue of the sign should be continued so that additional
information could be provided.
Comm. Aleks felt that the motion on the floor is appropriate, explaining that he feels six
months is an acceptable period tn which to meet reasonable conditions.
Comm. Rue cautioned that approval of the motion would require total replacement of the
existing sign, to which Comm. Aleks felt that such replacement would be appropriate.
Comm. Rue stated that he is aware of the importance of a bustness's sign and its ability to be
seen. He would rather mitigate the sign tnstead of replacing it all together. He said that sign
replacement will be very expensive for this bustness.
Comm. Peirce stated that the word "Liquor" is very visible to southbound traffic; however, it is
not that Visible from other directions. He stated that the sign is very old and has served its
purpose; however, he felt it would be appropriate to have a sign which meets the current
requirements.
AMENDMENT TO THE MOTION by Comm. Rue to change Condition No. 5 to read:
"Landscaping shall be provided along the southerly property line to screen the newspaper racks
or parking lot from public view from the south, subject to approval of the Planning Director.
The newspaper racks ~ be removed or relocated to another location on the site and properly
screened, subject to approval of the Planning Director." Amendment accepted by Chmn. Ketz
and Comm. Peirce, as maker and second.
Comm. Rue wanted to ensure that the landscaping is provided, regardless of whether or not the
newspaper racks are relocated or removed.
Comm. Rue wanted to see the ftnal outcome of the sign. He suggested that the sign issue be
continued so that the applicant could return with a sign plan.
Chmn. Ketz felt that requiring the applicant to return with a sign plan in several weeks would
be a hardship. She stated that in any event, she wants the sign to be in conformance with the
current sign requirements.
6 P.C. Mtnutes 12/ 4/90
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
Comms. Aleks, Marks, Peirce, Chmn. Ketz
Comm.Rue
None
None
Chmn. Ketz stated that this decision of the Planning Commission can be appealed by writing to
the City Council within ten days.
CUP 90-25 -CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT FOR AUTO DETAll-ING AND ADOPTION OF AN
ENVIRONMENTAL NEGATIVE DECLARATION AT 825 PACIFIC COAST HIGHWAY. HABASH
AUTO DETAll-ING
Mr. Schubach gave staff report dated November 28, 1990, and recommended denial of the
requested conditional use permit based on insufficient parking for the combination of the
proposed auto sales lot and detailing business.
As an alternative, staff suggested that the Planning Commission continue this hearing to the
meeting of January 2, 1991, and require a master CUP for the auto sales and auto detailing
business.
The project is located in the C-3 zone, with a general plan designation of general commercial.
The lot size is 9200 square feet, with 3534 square feet for the auto detailing use. The building
size is 800 square feet. The current use is as a combination of auto sales lot and proposed new
auto detailing shop. Three parking spaces are proposed (in the selVice bay). There are six
parking spaces for the existing auto sales lot.
The Habash Auto Detailing is located on the southwest comer of Pacific Coast Highway at 8th
Place. It is set back in the west third of the lot. which has a used car dealership in front. The
combined lot is approximately 9200 square feet. The hours of operation listed are 8:30 AM. to
6:00 P.M. Monday through Saturday, with the sole purpose of auto detailing.
The Habash Detailing business started operation without a business license or CUP. They were
warned on many occasions to cease and desist until the proper waiting period for a business
license and CUP, but they continued to operate. Especially noted was the fact that outside
vehicle washing is occurring daily, after repeated warnings by various City Hall personnel to
stop.
This property is presently an authorized business for used auto sales. A CUP dated January 7,
1986, was approved to allow the expansion of an auto sales business to add the garages in the
rear to replace a nonconforming residential use. Condition No. 6 of the CUP states: "The
proposed garages shall be used only in connection with the automobile sales business unless
adequate parking is provided for their use as a separate business. The determination of
parking requirements shall be made by the Planning Director." This condition precludes a
separate business on the property unless adequate parking is provided for all uses.
The parking requirement for the entire lot, when used as one business, is nine spaces (based on
one space per 1000 square feet of land area for an auto dealership). With the proposed
separation of uses, the parking requirement is six spaces for the auto sales business and three
for the proposed detail business (based on one space per 250 square feet of building area).
With the subject proposal, the applicant intends to use his garage ''bay" area to park three
vehicles. Although that is sufficient to hold three vehicles, it is not sufficient to "work" on
three vehicles at one time. Thus, the driveway is constantly clogged due to the lack of any
additional parking. An additional space ts proposed by using one of the six existing spaces
from the auto sales lot. The proposed parking in the driveway area behind the garage is not
acceptable since the area is inadequate for a turning area.
7 P.C. Minutes 12/4/90
At their meeting of October 18, 1990, the staff environmental review committee recommended
a mit1gated environmental negative declaration. Recommended were the following mitigation
measures: ( 1) The wash water and liquids are not to be drained off site or In the storm drains;
(2) No ptnstrtptng or body moldings; (3) No alarms or buzzers on site: (4) No auto repair or large
compressors: (5) Employee parking to be provided on site: (6) Hours of operation limited to 8:00
A.M. to 6:00 P .M. Monday through Saturday; (7) All signs must have prior approval before
installation: (8) Trash dumpster must be fully enclosed on private property.
The requested CUP would authorize the operation of an auto detailing business. The applicant
indicates that the operation consists of the pick up of autos and would not involve drive-up
customers. Whether or not parking ts determined to be adequate hinges on approval of the
garage bays as required parking.
Mr. Schubach continued by noting additional concerns. The owner indicates the business is
basically auto pick up with almost no walk-up trade. Because of the shortage of parking, auto
pick up should be the only manner of operation.
In the past, the washing of vehicles and occasional detailing has occurred outside in the
driveway area. This should be absolutely forbidden.
The drain/ grease trap on the south side of the property where all liquids flow must be
maintained and cleaned properly.
An appropriate location for the trash dumpster needs to be determined.
There is a small compressor used to blow lodged items from dash boards, etc. This should be
the only authorized use of that equipment.
On the proposed plot plan dated August 30, 1990, a stucco wall is either being proposed or
suggested. This would effectively cut up the property. Such a wall should not be allowed since it
sections the property into two separate parcels for all intents and purposes.
This business has been operating illegally for approximately sixty days. They continue to
wash cars in the driveways after repeated wanlings by City personnel. Several items were
recommended as condltions if a master CUP is recommended: (1) no auto repairs whatsoever;
(2) no alarm Installation, testing, or installations of any sort; (3) no outside phone buzzers,
bells, etc: (4) no ptnstrtping or body moldings shall be conducted; (5) hours shall be limited to
8:00 A.M. to 6:00 P.M. Monday through Saturday; and (6) no outside work activities
whatsoever.
Staff felt that if Mr. Habash is to have his business as designated, he must adhere to the
recommended conditions. The garages on the rear of the property were approved as an
expansion to a used car lot to be used in conjunction there as stated in CUP 86-5. It does not
seem appropriate to separate these garages out for use as a separate business.
Comm. Rue asked questions related to the plot plan and the proposed drainage. to which Mr.
Schubach explained that drainage is of great concern to the City and w1ll be investigated before
approval.
Comm. Rue referred to the staff review minutes and asked for clarification on a
recommendation by Commander Altfeld to require that conversations between employees
shall be monitored. Mr. Schubach stated that such a condition is not included in the CUP:
Comm. Aleks, however, felt that the recommendation was meant to preclude loud and/or
boisterous language.
8 P.C. Minutes 12/4/90
Public Hearing opened at 7:49 P.M. by Chmn. Ketz, who noted that the applicant was not
present, and no one else appeared to speak on this issue. Public Hearing closed at 7:50 P.M. by
Chmn. Ketz.
Mr. Schubach did not lmow why the applicant was not present at the public hearing.
MOTION by Comm. Rue, seconded by Comm. Aleks, to approve staffs alternate
recommendation to continue this hearing to the meeting of January 2, 1991, and require a
master CUP for the auto sales and auto detailing.
Comm. Petree questioned whether the owner is subletting the service bays and is thus in
violation of the City's regulations. He felt that the master lessee of the property should be
present at the continued public hearing to address these issues.
Chmn. Ketz noted that there is already a master CUP in place, then, since there is already a
CUP in place for this property.
Comm. Marks asked how much noise will be generated by this business, to which Mr.
Schubach explained that staff did not feel noise would be a problem so long as no work is
performed outdoors. He continued by explaining that there are noise buffers. Also. the doors
open out to the east toward the highway, which is noisier than the business itself would be. He
also noted that the hours will be strictly controlled.
Comm. Marks noted concern that work will be done outdoors, to which Mr. Schubach
explained that outdoor work would constitute not only a violation of the CUP, but also a
violation of the noise ordinance.
Comm. Rue stressed the importance of the master CUP holder appearing at the continued
public hearing so that the issues can be addressed.
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
Comms. Aleks, Peirce; Rue, Chmn. Ketz
None
None
Comm. Marks
Public Hearing continued to the meeting of January 2, 1991.
VAR 90-7 -VARIANCE TO ENCROACH INTO THE 17-FOOT PARKING SETBACK AND
ADOPTION OF AN ENVIRONMENTAL NEGATIVE DECLARATION AT 1734 PROSPECT
AVENUE
Mr. Schubach gave staff report dated November 27, 1990, and recommended approval of the
request by adoption of the proposed resolution.
This project is located in the R-2B zone, with a general plan designation of medium density.
The existing use is as a single-family with a permitted additional dwelling area for a
handicapped relative. The lot size is 7,110 square feet, and the existing building size is 2500
square feet. The proposed addition is for a garage remodel and expansion only.
The subject lot is irregularly shaped and slopes upward from the street.
On July 18, 1977, the Board of Zoning Adjustment granted a variance to allow the construction
of a second dwelling area with a kitchen facility below the existing dwelling without adding the
required parking. The variance was granted subject to the recording of a deed restriction
prohibiting the rental of the second unit and requiring the removal of the kitchen upon
transfer of ownership.
9 P.C. Minutes 12/ 4/90
At their meeting of October 4, 1990, the staff environmental review committee recommended
an environmental negative declaration.
The appUcant 1s requesting to remodel and expand an existing two-car garage into a four-car
garage to provide the necessaiy parking to make the second dwelling unit legal. The existing
two-car garage will be widened to allow for four cars and will be reduced in depth to maximize
the setback without doing any remodeling work to the main structure.
The garage is currently set back 11.35 feet from the property line with a depth of 24.5 feet. By
reducing the depth to the minimum inside depth of twenty feet. the setback would be increased
to about 16 feet.
According to the applicant, the variance is necessary because the alternative to move the rear
wall of the garage one foot back to accommodate the required setback would be costly and
difficult. This is due to the slope of the lot, and the fact that the garage is partially
subterranean. As such, the rear wall of the garage serves as a retaining wall and a bearing wall.
Also, as noted by the applicant, the width of the Prospect Avenue right-of-way 1s such that the
distance between the property line and the street curb is 20 feet.
Given the circumstances, staff felt that the findings for a variance can be made in this case,
based on the characteristics of the topography of the lot and its effect on the existing garage
location and expansion potential. Staff felt that the applicant's efforts to improve the property
should be supported, especially since the proposal would improve upon the existing
nonconforming setback of 11. 5 feet and it would add several parking spaces while not resulting
in any major changes or additions to the existing structure.
Also, the findings for a variance to allow the substandard guest parking stall of 16 feet in depth
can be made, given the circumstance of the extra wide light-of-way and given that it would be
only a minor deficiency compared with the code-required 17-foot depth.
Public Hearing opened at 8:00 P .M. by Chmn. Ketz.
Walter Lee, 1734 Prospect, applicant, addressed the Commission and stated that he agreed with
the staff report and had no additional comments.
Public Hearing closed at 8:01 P.M. by Chmn. Ketz.
Comm. Peirce asked whether the surrounding area is R-2B, to which Mr. Schubach replied in
the affirmative, noting that there is also some R-1 in this vicinity.
Comm. Peirce noted that approval of this variance will allow the second unit. He questioned
whether that second unit meets all of the City's requirements, to which Mr. Schubach replied
in the affirmative. He stated that the lot is large enough for two units, and there is very low lot
coverage with a great deal of open space.
Mr. Schubach, in response to a question from Comm. Peirce, stated that the deed restriction
will be removed from this property.
MOTION by Chmn. Ketz, seconded by Comm. Rue, to approve staffs recommendation,
Resolution P.C. 90-98, as Written.
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
Comms. Aleks, Marks, Peirce, Rue, Chmn. Ketz
None
None
None
10 P.C. Minutes 12/ 4/90
·,
F-4 -ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT FOR FARMER'S MARKET AT HERMOSA AVENUE
AND 13TH STREET ON PUBLIC RIGHT-OF-WAY AND ADOPTION OF AN ENVIRONMENTAL
NEGATIVE DECLARATION (CONTINUED FROM MEETINGS OF 10/16/90 AND 11/20/90}
Mr. Schubach gave staff report dated November 29, 1990, and recommended that the Planning
Commission recommend an environmental negative declaration to Council for Farmer's
Market.
At the April 24, 1990, meeting, the City Council approved a request from the Chamber of
Commerce to conduct a Farmer's Market downtown on Fridays between 10:00 A.M. and 2:00
P.M. This approval was for a six-month trial period and is scheduled to be reviewed by Council
at their meeting of January 8, 1991.
The concept behind a Farmer's Market is that items are grown by the farmers and are sold
directly to the consumer. The Hermosa Beach market has been in operation since July.
The staff review recommended a negative declaration with mitigation measures to include a
parking attendant; hours of operation from 12:30 P.M. to 3:30 P.M; and a maximum of 20
vendors.
Toe Farmer's Market hours have recently been extended to include an additional hour (12:30
P.M. -4:30 P.M. on Fridays). This was due to the success of the market and to the numerous
requests from members of the community to accommodate hours that would serve more of the
working population.
Chamber volunteers have been providing direction for parking during the market hours as
well as for the farmers' set-up and tear-down times.
Since staff had additional concerns related to traffic circulation during the activity, the City
traffic engineer was asked to provide a report, copies of which were provided to the
Commission. He indicated that no significant circulation problems had been observed during
the operation of the market. He further noted that there may be future concerns with the traffic
flow when the proposed hotel is completed.
From all observations, the Farmer's Market has proven to be a low impact, smooth-running
activity that is a popular event for Hermosa Beach residents and visitors alike. If approved ,
the recommendation for a negative declaration will be forwarded to the City Council at the six-
month review.
Mr. Schubach, in response to questions from Comm. Marks, explained that the market itself is
responsible for clean-up activities.
Comm. Rue suggested that the Farmer's Market again be reviewed if and when a hotel is built in
the area: Mr. Schubach agreed.
Public Hearing opened at 8:09 P.M. by Chmn. Ketz.
Mary Lou Weiss, 2506 Ardmore Avenue, manager of the Farmer's Market, addressed the
Commission and: ( 1) spoke on behalf of the Chamber of Commerce; (2) stated that the market
was started to stimulate business in the downtown area, and it has been successful in doing
that; (3) explained that volunteers clean up after the market: (4) stated that there iS validated
parking for the market, and there have been no traffic or parking problems associated with the
market: (5) said that the additional hour of operation is being requested to accommodate
working people.
Public Hearing closed at 8:11 P.M. by Chmn. Ketz.
11 P.C. Minutes 12/ 4/90
·,
Chmn. Ketz stated that the market is a wonderlul asset for the downtown area. Also, she has
experienced no traffic or parking problems when she has attended.
MOTION by Comm. Peirce, seconded by Comm. Rue, to approve staff's recommendation, with
the inclusion of the recommendation to allow the extra hour of operation to 4:30 P.M. on
Fridays. Also, that the market again be reviewed if and when a hotel is constructed.
Comm. Aleks felt that if there are problems, other businesses in the area would report them to
the City.
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
STAFF ITEMS
Comms. Aleks, Marks, Peirce, Rue, Chmn. Ketz
None
None
None
a) Planning Department Activity Report for October 1990
Chmn. Ketz asked whether there has been an increase in the MAX ridership, to which Mr.
Schubach replied in the affirmative, and he continued by giving an update on MAX.
Comm. Peirce asked about the upcoming zoning workshops, to which Mr. Schubach gave an
update on what will be addressed in the zoning studies. He also explained that a task force will
be designated to study the :Issue.
b) Memorandum Regan;Ung PJanntnf CoJJ1rol§Slon Llalson for December 11, 1990 Meeting
No one will attend as liaison.
c) Tentative Future Plannfn& Commission Agenda
No action taken.
d) City Council Minutes of November 13, 1990
No action taken.
COMMISSIONER ITEMS
Comm. Peirce encouraged evecyone to attend the City's Christmas Party.
Comm. Aleks suggested the removal of the ledge underneath the dais, explaining that it is quite
uncomfortable.
MOTION by Comm. Rue, seconded by Comm. Marks, to adjourn at 8:23 P.M. No objections; so
ordered.
12 P.C. Minutes 12/ 4/90
J
)
CERTD'ICATION
I hereby certify that the foregoing minutes are a true and complete record of the action
taken by the Planning Commission of Hermosa Beach at the regularly scheduled
meeting of December 4. 1990
Christine~ Chafmrm. • ✓
13 P.C. Minutes 12/4/90