HomeMy WebLinkAboutPC_Minutes_1992_06_16~INUTl:S 01'" TIit VUNNIN6 CO~ISSION ~l:1:TIN6 01'" TIit
CITY 01'" 111:l]~OSA 131:ACll 111:LI) ON .JUNI: 1E, 1~~~" AT
7:00 V-~-IN TIit CII'Y IIALL COUNCIL Cll~l31:DS
Meeting called to order at 7:00 P.M. by Chmn. Merl.
Pledge of Allegiance led by Comm. Di Monda.
ROLL CALL
Present:
Absent:
Also Present:
Comms. Di Monda, Ketz, Marks, Suard and Chmn.
Merl
None
Michael Schubach; Planning Director,
Edward Lee, Assistant City Attorney,
Lynn Terry, Deputy City Engineer
Sylvia Root, Recording Secretary
CONSENT CALENDAR
MOTION by Comm. Ketz, seconded by Comm. Suard, to APPROVE the
following Consent Calendar items with the following changes:
Minutes of the May 19, 1992 Planning Commission meeting, Page 9,
last paragraph, change "This limitation ... " to "The 30-feet
limitation ... "
Minutes of the June 2, 1992 Planning Commission meeting, Page 2,
Variance 92-2, change " ... 2550 ... " to " ... 250 ... "
Resolution P.C. 92-27, A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF
THE CITY OF HERMOSA BEACH, CALIFORNIA, DETERMINING THE LEGAL USE TO
BE A FIVE-UNIT APARTMENT FOR PROPERTY KNOWN AS 1150 MANHATTAN
AVENUE.
Resolution P.C. 92-30, A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF
THE CITY OF HERMOSA BEACH, CALIFORNIA, APPROVING A CONDITIONAL USE
PERMIT TO AUTHORIZE GENERAL AUTO REPAIR AT 1017 AVIATION BOULEVARD,
KING-BEAR AUTO CENTER, change "C. The development as conditioned,
posses no threat .... " to "C. The development as conditioned, poses
no threat ... ", change "8. . .. fro ... " to "8. . .. for ... ", delete
the second " ... areas or any other location on the premises shall
be ... ", Section III, change each "it's" within this section to
"its".
AYES:
NOES:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT:
Comms. Di Monda, Ketz, Marks, *Suard and Chmn. Merl
None
*Comm. Suard abstained on June 2, 1992 Minutes,
Resolution P.C. 92-27 and Resolution P.C. 92-30
None
1 P.C.Minutes 6/16/92 3
COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE PUBLIC
No one wished to address the Commission regarding a matter not
related to a public hearing on the agenda.
PUBLIC HEARING
VAR 92-2 A VARIANCE TO ALLOW 250 SQUARE FEET ADDITION TO A
NON-CONFORMING TRIPLEX AT 336 THE STRAND AND ADOPTION OF AN
ENVIRONMENTAL NEGATIVE DECLARATION FOR SAID VARIANCE AT 336 THE
STRAND (continued from June 2, 1992 Meeting).
Recommended Action: To deny requested variance.
Mr. Schubach stated the proposed addition would maximize view
potential, raise that portion of building height to th'e 35-feet
maximum and connect with the existing roof deck. He commented the
non-conformity is related to density and structural aspects: lot
coverage, unit sizes, private open space, front setback, north side
setback and parking. Mr. Schubach stated the proposed project com-
plied with basic zoning requirements and the non-conforming ordin-
ance, noted the one space per unit parking complied with Section
1162 allowing the addition. A variance is necessary, because under
current R-3 zoning, the maximum density is 33 units per acre. He
stated the Commission must determine if there were grounds for a
variance and if the non-conforming use should be allowed any
expansion. Mr. Schubach then detailed the findings that must be
made in order to qualify for a variance and noted the applicant's
reasons for requesting a variance ( surrounding property rights,
structure sizes, view and light blockage).
Mr. Schubach stated Staff recommended denial due to the first
finding required for variances, not Staff found nothing about the
property's physical characteristics that were exceptional or
unique. He noted the second requirement would become moot without
the first finding.
Public Hearing opened by Chmn. Merl at 7:15 p.m.
Ken McDonald, project architect, 2306 Pacific Coast Highway,
pre~ented and discussed project photographs, addressing the
variance findings requirement as it relating to the property
topography and side-by-side in-filling. He felt a variance was
necessary for his client to enjoy the same rights as his neighbors
and felt granting the variance would not be detrimental to the
neighbors or area or adversel¥ affect the General Plan. He felt
the proposed project was within the "spirit" of the General Plan
and presented no increase in density beyond that which is 19% over
dense or lot coverage while increasing open space and living area.
He stated parking is not an issue, the area profile would be
maintained (not raised).
Comm. Marks discussed with Mr. McDonald the roof area, determining
the stora9e area had been deleted, the open deck would have an open
trellis with a clear he.:i.ght of 7'6" to 7'9". Comm. Marks noted the
2 P.C.Minutes 6/16/92
trash area was too small, to which Mr. McDonald responded that it
was an existing condition, but the property owner would be willing
to comply with any suggested improvement.
Eric Castleman, 336 The Strand, applicant, confirmed the location
of the trash area was pre-existing. He compared an analogy between
his property and senior citizens he cares for on a daily basis,
stating the project would realize the building's full potential and
extend its longevity, not alter the building character nor create
any new problems and not change density. He felt the building
could be enhanced and should not be torn down.
No one else wished to speak regarding this item, and Chrnn. Merl
closed the Public Hearing at 7:30 p.m.
Comm. Di Monda stated the architect had previously discussed this
proposed addition. He commented that the 30-feet height limitation
being currently considered, the substandard size of the lot and
apartments and the lack of parking had not been subjects of that
previous discussion. Comm. Di Monda stated his lack of support was
due to those three issues, feeling two units on the property would
better serve the City, given the lot size. Comm. Ketz felt there
were no findings made in support of a variance. Comm. Suard
supported remodeling of older units, but felt he could not support
a variance due to the view blockage and increase in density. Comm.
Marks stated his support of Staff's recommendation. Chmn. Merl
stated an affirmative finding was necessary to grant a variance,
which was not the case, although he was definitely in favor of the
remodeling of older structures.
MOTION by Comm. Ketz, seconded by Comm. Marks, to follow Staff's
recommendation and DENY the request for a variance to allow 250
square feet addition and an Environmental Negative Declaration for
a non-conforming triplex at 336 The Strand.
AYES:
NOES:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT:
Comm. Di Monda, Ketz, Marks, Suard, Chmn. Merl
None
None
None
Chrnn. Merl stated this item was denied, subject to appeal within 10
days to the City Council.
CON 92-4/PDP 92-4 CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT, VESTING TENTATIVE
PARCEL MAP #23286 AND PRECISE DEVELOPMENT PLAN WITH REVISED PLANS
FOR A THREE-UNIT CONDOMINIUM PROJECT AT 1901 PACIFIC COAST HIGHWAY.
(Referred back to Planning Commission by City Council action to
deny "without prejudice"}.
Recommended Action: To review revisions and determine if adequate
to comply with concerns of the Planning Commission and City
Council.
Mr. Schubach stated Staff suggested the revisions be reviewed to
determine if adequate to comply with previously stated concerns.
3 P.C.Minutes 6/16/92
He then discussed the background, recommendations for changes and
the actual changes made to this item, as well as previous action
taken by the Commission and City Council. Mr. Schubach explained
the options available to the Commission. He stated the modifica-
tions made to the plan are minor and responded to only the City
Council's specific concerns. Comm. Marks and Mr. Schubach
discussed view maintenance provisions. Mr. Schubach stated a
corner cut off requirement has been met by the revised plan, with a
drive way slope having a longer distance and lesser slope.
Public Hearing opened by Chmn. Merl at 7:39 p.m.
Gerald Compton, 1200 Artesia Blvd., Ste. 300, project architect,
presented and explained photographs and renderings of the project.
He felt the height situation was reviewed and agreed upon by the
City Council that there was no problem. He presented an rendering
of area structure heights to the Commission, noted the proposed
project (due to building slope) would be 20-25 feet at the street
level with the back being 35 feet and stated most of the buildings
would not have an impact on view. Comm. Di Monda confirmed that
the project was at basically 30'5" and the slope then takes it to
31 '3" with Mr. Compton. Mr. Compton then explained the amount of
care that had been taken in the development of the building plans
and compared this proposed project to the existing ones within the
area and previous project plans. He felt this type of development
would provide a much safer traffic situation, noting the garage
area provided a 28-feet turn radius, allowing any size car to
maneuver and "head out" of the driveway.
Mr. Compton and Comm. Di Monda discussed internal down spouts and
overflows located within and without the structure. Comm. Di Monda
suggested the building mass could be visually reduced by different
stucco textures and color on the exterior of the building, which
Mr. Compton agreed to consider. Comm. Marks and Mr. Compton
discussed the planned landscaping, as well as the areas possibly to
be landscaped by the owners, and the building footprint determina-
tion.
Brian Bedall, 930 1st Street, Apt. #4, stated a lot of· work has
been completed to meet the stated requirements. He felt the
building will be attractive and the area will be improved.
No one else wished to speak regarding this i tern, and Chmn. Merl
closed the Public Hearing at 8:01 p.m.
Comm. Di Monda felt the changes are beneficial,
safer, an effort had been made and expressed his
changes made. He requested that a Condition
planter box be added, as it should have been.
the driveway is
pleasure with the
requiring a 24"
MOTION by Comm. Di Monda, seconded by Comm. Suard, to APPROVE CON
92-4/PDP 92-4, Conditional Use Permit and Vesting Tentative Parcel
Map #23286 and Precise Development Plan with revised plans for a
three-unit condominium project at 1901 Pacific Coast Highway, with
a change to Paragraph 4 adding a Condition to require a 24" box
tree.
4 P.C.Minutes 6/16/92
AYES:
NOES:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT:
Comm. Di Monda, Ketz, Marks, Suard, Chinn. Merl
None
None
None
Chmn. Merl stated this item was approved, subject to appeal within
10 days to the City Council.
CON 92-6/PDP 92-5 CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT, VESTING TENTATIVE
PARCEL MAP #21754. AND A PRECISE DEVELOPMENT PLAN FOR A TWO-UNIT
CONDOMINIUM AT 1010 17TH STREET.
Recommended Action: To continue to July 21, 1992 meeting.
Mr. Schubach stated Staff recommended continuance to allow the
applicant to revise plans to comply with the open space Policy
Statement and provide a revised landscape plan. He then detailed
previous actions taken by the Commission, described the proposed
units. Mr. Schubach stated the proposed project complied with all
zoning requirements, but is not consistent with the policy
requiring substantial open space adjacent to living areas.
Mr. Schubach discussed complaints received by the· Building
Department; ie: an on-site travel trailer, dumping of dirt on the
property. He stated the owner had been contacted and the issues
must be resolved prior to a building permit issuance.
Comm. Di Monda asked if Staff's word processor had "standard
conditions" entered. He stated the Resolutions do not always
include the same conditions. Mr. Schubach stated he would assure
the "24" planter box requirement" was included in future Resolu-
tions. Comm. Marks stated Sheet 7 was incomplete. Comm. Ketz
noted the previous C.U.P. had required a 36" planter box, not a 24"
one. The 36" planter box should be a requirement.
Public Hearing opened by Chmn. Merl at 8:07 p.m.
Jacob Mierop, 118 6th Street, requested a continuance to July 7,
1992, to which Mr. Schubach responded if the revised plans were
received by Staff by June 27, 1992, the July 7th date was possible.
Candace Ford, 1002 17th Street, referenced a letter she had written
which requested action be taken prior to a permit being granted.
They were: clean up the property, remove the dirt and reinstate
the natural ground level, fix the fence which was damaged by
trucks, removal of vermin, reimbursement for her expense in
removing subterranean termites on her facing property, addressing
the problem of the swimming pool and a large palm tree which serves
as a home for birds and vermin which has damaged adjacent property.
She stated four feet of dirt (in piles, but covering the lot) had
been brought in and dumped.
5 P.C.Minutes 6/16/92
Mike Welch, 1004 17th Street, confirmed Ms. Ford's statements. He
stated the dirt level is 4 to 6 feet over 2 / 3 's of the ·back yard
and the pool has water in it and represents a danger to children.
Bill Gray, 1115 17th Street, property owner of 1007, 1015 and 1017
17th Street properties. He stated 20 to 30 truck loads of dirt had
been brought in, the soil has not be compacted and there are no
retaining walls. He stated at least two stop-work orders have been
put on the property, which have been ineffective. Mr. Gray felt
that owners' rights should be reinstated equal to Condominiums by
rezoning the properties to allow present property owners to also be
able to rebuild or build Condominiums. He felt prior to granting
the C.U.P., a retaining wall should be built, house trailer
immediately removed and swimming pool filled. He requested that
condominiums be painted two different colors and that during
construction, the material and dumpsters not be allowed to be
parked on the street.
Public Hearing closed by Chmn. Merl at 8:25 p.m.
Comm. Di Monda discussed the dumping of dirt, the pool and the
trailer on the property with Mr. Mierop. Mr. Mierop stated the
pool did have water, had a fenc •:! around the pool, dirt had been
dumped on the property at his orders, but additional dirt had been
dumped by others in spite of the fence and lock that he had had
installed. He explained how the dirt is to be used to fill the
pool and stated the problems would be taken care of. The trailer
was being removed the next day. He stated the dirt was piled in
the back yard, but was not four feet high, had been there over one
year. Comm. Di Monda requested the dirt be removed immediately.
Comm. Marks requested the dirt be removed as soon as possible. Mr.
Mierop stated he had not received information from Staff and had
not been aware of the stated problems. Comm. Di Monda stated he
thought July 7, 1992 was too soon to allow for soil removal, the
pool being filled, soil compacted and to obtain a geology report.
Mr. Lee stated the problems that have been noted are within the
scope of the Building Department to resolve. If the matter were
continued, the problems could be addressed by the applicant and the
Building Department Staff could verify the actions taken. Then a
determination as to project merits could be addressed and the
C.U.P. could be approved, denied or continued.
MOTION by Comm. Di Monda, seconded by Comm. Seward, to CONTINUE CON
92-6/PDP 92-5 to the Planning Commission's July 7, 1992 meeting,
REQUEST the Building Dept. to respond to the Commiss ion with a
report stating opinions, status and problems of thi s issue,
including the actions taken to remedy those problems and REQUEST
the applicant assure that the soil is removed, the pool filled and
the soil compacted.
AYES:
NOES:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT:
Comms. Di Monda, Ketz, Marks, Suard, Chmn. Merl
None
None
None
6 P.C.Minutes 6/16/92
CUP 92-6 CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT AMENDMENT TO ALLOW OUTDOOR
SEATING IN CONJUNCTION WITH A COFFEE HOUSE r AND ADOPTION OF AN
ENVIRONMENTAL NEGATIVE DECLARATION AT 157 PIER AVENUE, JAVA MAN.
Recommended Action: To approve said Conditional Use Permit and
adopt the Environmental Negative Declaration.
Mr. Schubach stated Staff recommended approval subject to Condi-
tions. He explained the Conditions and options available to the
Commission. Mr. Schubach then detailed the proposed changes to the
existing C.U.P., stating Staff felt the business should be required
to provide additional parking to compensate for expansion and
mitigate any impact, a low railing or other device be provided to
clearly delineate outside seating and stop encroachment into the
right-of-way and that private use of public right-of-way is not
appropriate as this is a major corner and has heavy pedestrian
usage. Mr. Schubach confirmed to Comm. Marks that lot nos. 15 and
22 were under the same ownership.
Public Hearing opened by Chmn. Merl at 8:40 p.m.
Dave Owen, 1233 Hermosa Ave., Ste. 203, project designer, 'felt that
the building has been vastly improved, stating the expansion was
very simple. He explained the expansion of a deck and additional
seating area. He stated the applicant is willing to give up use of
the public space and will not pursue use of that area. Mr. Owen
stated the deck was being proposed due to the substantial grade
change on the lot and the planter would perhaps have a different
Rick Hankus, 157 Pier Avenue, stated he has created a non-smoking,
non-drinking environment for primarily pedestrians which was of
immense benefit to the downtown area, improved the corner and gave
residents a place to go instead of driving to other cities. He
stated his business was a nice opening to the downtown Hermosa
Beach area. Comm. Suard congratulated him on the ambiance created
at that corner. Mr. Hankus stated he currently had nine part-time
employees, six of • which lived locally and three that parked at
least two blocks from the business. Comm. Suard and Mr. Hankus
discussed future parking spaces, one of which would be available
for $50. per month. Mr. Hankus stated he did not want to accept
the liability associated with use of public right-of-ways. Comm.
Di Monda suggested a bicycle rack be fitted near the building
rather than a parking space, which Mr. Hankus thought was a good
idea.
Tommy Steel, 726 Palm, felt Java Man offered outdoor seatin9 with a
nice environment, helping to turn the City into a walking city. He
supported approval of the C.U.P.
Lynn Terry, Deputy City Engineer, stated Public Works Dept.
completely agreed with Planning Dept. Staff's comments; ie: a low
barrier between tables and public right-of-way.
June Williams, Manhattan Avenue, asked the purpose of the 18"
public right-of-way. The Commission responded the right-of-way was
7 P.C.Minutes 6/16/92
four feet wide. She thought the area was only 18", which was
insignificant. She supported approval of the C.U.P., asking that a
condition be added prohibiting the use of paper plates or·cups.
Susan McFarland, 25 8th Street, recommended approval of the C.U.P.
She felt the business was very specific, catering to a walk-in
trade, which was not a tourist-related business which did not offer
alcohol. She felt the seven parking space requirement should be
removed prior to approval, as parking is available in other areas.
Ann Cummings, 930
exactly what was
support.
14th Street, felt this
needed in the downtown
type of business
area and stated
was
her
Dick Mccurdy, 1113 Valley Drive, supported C.U.P. approval, noting
the impact on other local businesses has been for the better.
Rick Linnen, 1727 Monterey, supported approval, stating this type
of business was needed within the City of Hermosa Beach.
Dave Owen, during rebuttal, asked for Staff's assistance with
establishment of an acceptable low railing or other device.
Public Hearing closed by Chmn. Merl at 9:04 p.m.
Comm. Di Monda did not view the request as an expansion, but rather
providing outside seating. He felt no parking spaces were neces-
sary, but again suggested a bike rack be installed and a barrier or
low railing be not a part of the conditions. Comms. Ketz and Suard
agreed a railing was not necessary. Comm. Suard expressed concern
regarding parking, suggesting a total of two parking spaces be
required. Chmn. Merl concurred with Comms. Di Monda and Ketz. He
felt the business helped the community and was important to the
downtown area. He stated he would have no problem in approving use
of the right-of-way area and allowing the applicant, at a later
time, the ability to pursue that option with the City Council and
the Public Works Dept.
Comm. Marks felt a bicycle rack should be a requirement. Comm. Di
Monda felt the applicant should be able to serve coffee at the
outside tables and clean them thereafter, suggesting that
restriction be lifted, to which Chmn. Merl agreed. After
discussion between Mr. Lee and the Commission, it was determined
conditions could not be changed without notice, service could not
be given to the outside tables while not allowing the same service
at indoor tables; cleaning of the tables is allowed. Asked by
Comm. Di Monda, the applicant stated he would like to have table
service, as it would help the customer flow and service quality.
Comm. Di Monda asked if this issue could be continued· to allow
re-noticing and the use of three tables in the outdoor area could
be continued during that time. The applicant agreed to this
proposal.
Mr. Lee stated instruction as to Condition changes would be
appropriate at the continued Public Hearing, noting that direction
8 P.C.Minutes 6/16/92
was currently needed in order to define for Staff the scope of
re-noticing.
MOTION by Comm. Di Monda, seconded by Comm. Ketz to CONTINUE this
item to allow for renotification, DIRECT Staff to revise Section I,
Page 6, deleting the third sentence starting with, " ... the boundary
between ... " , deleting paragraph 2 , change paragraph 4 to read, "A
sign shall be posted in a conspicuous location," and delete Page 7,
paragraph 7.
AYES:
NOES:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT:
Comms. Di Monda, Ketz, Marks, Chmn. Merl
Comm. Suard
None
None
Comm. Suard noted his disapproval was regarding only the parking
situation. Ch.mn. Merl confirmed outside service of tables would
continue during this period of continuance.
A break was taken from 9:18 p.m. to 9:25 p.m.
CUP 91-18 CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT AMENDMENT TO ALLOW AUTO
DETAILING IN CONJUNCTION WITH AN EXISTING CAR WASH, PARKING PLAN TO
ALLOW EMPLOYEE PARKING ON ADJACENT PROPERTY, AND ADOPTION OF AN
ENVIRONMENTAL NEGATIVE DECLARATION AT 1000 PACIFIC COAST HIGHWAY,
HERMOSA CAR WASH (continued from 2/4, 3/17, 4/21 and 5/19/92
meetings).
Recommended Action: To approve said Conditional Use Permit
amendment and adopt the Environmental Negative Declaration.
Mr. Schubach gave the Staff Report, stating the City Traffic
Engineer did not support allowing a right turn out of the driveway.
Staff believed closure of the 10th Street driveway was a preferable
alternative, with "left-turn only" and "exit only" signs as an
alternative. Noise readings had been obtained but were difficult
to read due to the high levels of noise caused by traffic. Supple-
mental information indicated a violation of the noise ordinance. A
compressor and a high-pressure water hose are being used, contri-
buting to the noise levels. This violation requires corrective
action be taken. Staff recommended the applicant contact Staff to
assist in the resolution of this problem. The applicant must
assure the noise level is reduced to acceptable levels.
Public Hearing opened by Chmn. Merl at 9:29 p.m.
Peter Paldino, project architect, 215 Pier Avenue, addressed the
noise level and drive way issues. He state the noise readings were
taken with the blower off, with a 58 to 61 Ob's reading as a result
of highway noise, and with the blower on, with a 63 to 69 Db's
reading, both over the maximum allowable. He questioned the 55
Db' s requirement, feeling it was a low standard. Mr. Paldino
described the efforts made by the applicant, stating he felt the
block wall would be expensive to build and not particularly
effective. Mr. Schubach explained the basis of the "55 Ob's
9 P.C.Minutes 6/16/92
standard", noting the applicant had to reduce the noise level to
the ambient {58-61 Ob's), but the noise levels must be reduced to
Code required levels. Comm. Di Monda stated the ambient noise
level would be dependent upon the time of day the tests were taken.
He discussed the current enclosure and noise level reduction with
Mr. Paldino, who stated there remained one more internal mechanism
can be addressed to reduce sound which would be addressed within 30
days. Mr. Schubach stated another reading could be taken after
completion of that correction, if the Commission so desired.
Mr. Paldino requested the drive way remain open as the drive way is
used only for exiting of detailed cars, with a maximum of 6 to 7
cars per day. He stated if the drive way were closed, the detail-
ing portion of the business will also be closed.
Richard O'Bryan, 1000 Pacific Coast Highway, stated the equipment
is below ground level and is enclosed, with awnings hung to prevent
noise from escaping. He stated the noise levels have been reduced
by 5 to 7 Ob's. He stated the Police Dept. had "passed" the noise
level as being within the ambient sound level and that additional
muffling had been accomplished since that time. Mr. Schubach
stated Staff had not used the 1990 Police reports, which stated the
applicant was in violation, because it was felt they did not take
the ambient at a location that Staff was satisfied with. Comm. Di
Monda discussed use of a remote vacuum to reduce noise with Mr.
O'Bryan. Comm. Marks suggested the two open ends be enclosed with
"strip" plastic, to which the applicant expressed concern relating
to possible damage to the cars.
Comm. Di Monda discussed the number of complaints received by Staff
with Mr. Schubach. Although not a large outcry, neighbors up the
street stated they heard more of the noise than those adjacent to
the establishment because the nois1e traveled upwards.
Mr. Lee stated that City Code provided that when commercial uses
are adjacent to residential uses, the Dba noise level could be 60
Ob's between 8:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. and at 55 Ob's after 10:00
p.m. This should be considered in relationship to the ambient.
Public Hearing closed by Chmn. Merl at 9:50 p.m.
Comm. Marks felt another opportunity to lessen the noise level
should be given to the applicant. Comm. Di Monda felt a
continuance was inappropriate, feeling the Commission should give
suggestions for correction, approve the C.U.P. and review the
situation in six months' time. He then itemized the· areas of
concern which would be reviewed during the six month review. He
suggested a noise level reading be conducted at 5:30 p.m. as he did
not feel he knew what the ambient noise levels really were and felt
Staff should provide additional ambient noise level information.
He also felt the actions taken to date were of benefit to the
community and the applicant had made an honest effort to resolve
the issues.
10 P.C.Minutes 6/16/92
Comm. Suard stated the applicant would be required to adhere to the
Code requirements. He felt a reading of the ambient noise level on
a Sunday morning was just as important as a 5:00 p.m. reading,
noting residents should have their "quiet time".
MOTION by Comm. Di Monda, seconded by Comm. Suard, to APPROVE
C.U.P. 91-18, deleting Paragraph 3, Sentence (b) and allowing the
drive way to remain open, with a chain and a left-turn only sign,
Page 5, Paragraph 11 to be changed to allow the operation of vacuum
cleaners as long as the City noise ordinance requirements are met,
Page 5, Paragraph 13, delete item (a) and replace with a statement
requiring a six-month review and to DIRECT Staff to obtain more Oba
information relating to the noise levels at this location at
5 : 0 0-5 : 3 0 p. m. week days and on Sunday mornings, in order to
resolve this problem.
AYES:
NOES:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT:
Comms. Di Monda, Ketz, Suard, Chinn. Merl
Comm. Marks
None
None
Chmn. Merl stated this item was approved, subject to appeal within
10 days to the City Council.
PDP 91-5/CUP 91-26 PRECISE DEVELOPMENT PLAN AND CONDITIONAL
USE PERMIT FOR A HOTEL WITH A PIANO BAR CON-SALE GENERAL ALCOHOL)
AND A RESTAURANT WITH ON-SALE BEER AND WINE, AND ADOPTION OF A
MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION AT 125 PACIFIC COAST HIGHWAY, KING
HARBOR HOTEL {continued from 2/18, 4/7 and 5/5/92 meetings).
Recommended Action: To continue to a specific date.
Mr. Schubach stated the applicant still needed to provide
additional information which had been delayed, in part, by an
illness in the developer's family, necessitating his being out of
the country. He stated addition or relocation of a traffic signal
has been opposed by the Traffic Engineer and would probably be
opposed by Cal Trans, which has approved the proposed plan and
submitted traffic study as adequate. Mr. Schubach discussed the
responses received from a survey regarding a street closure, of
which the majority supported ( 36/20). He noted the City Traffic
Engineer and CalTrans had indicated no opposition to the street
closure, but a public hearing and general agreement by residents
and businesses, as well as a General Plan Amendment would be
necessary.
Mr. Schubach noted records of incidence f rem other adult
restaurants is highly variable; similar restaurants have had few
incidents. Staff had attempted to float balloons to measure height
but the test was affected by turbulence. Staff did find little
difference between 35 and 40 feet, in that the view would be
obstructed with either height or expansion of an existing building
on First Street to the west of this location. Mr. Schubach stated
Staff did not believe a wall higher than 6 feet is necessary; the
applicant would be advised if the Commission felt a higher wall was
needed. Staff also did not believe the hotel would create any
11 P.C.Minutes 6/16/92
changes in pedestrian circulation within the
cross-walks currently existing. The property
notified of the necessity to clean the site and
would be taken care of by the end of June, 1992.
area, with area
owner has been
has indicated it
Mr. Lee noted a concern that under the permit streamlining act, a
set period of time is established in which to approve/deny a
project, explaining the amount of time as it related to this
project. He explained the difficulties relating to this project,
stating the maximum date in which to approve/deny this project
would be mid-August 1992 (unless the applicant asked for another
time extension). •
Comm. Di Monda asked what constituted "general agreement" among
residents. Mr. Lee responded residents would have the opportunity
to protest either vacation or closure, and the City Council has the
right to make the decision. Comm. Di Monda felt this statement in
the Staff Report was misleading, to which Mr. Lee offered to
further research and present the particulars to the Commission.
Comm. Di Monda noted the notice was advertised as "recommended for
continuance". Chmn. Merl felt the project had been continued many
times and now should be addressed.
Public Hearing opened by Chmn. Merl at 10:10 p.m.
Jeremy Yeh, 49 So. Catalina Avenue, Pasadena, applicant's
representative, explained the delay was due to the applicant's
father's d~ath, which necessitated the applicant leaving the
Country prior to leaving instructions. Mr. Yeh requested an
extension of time until probably July 1992 in order to discuss .the
Commission's concerns with the property owner, who is scheduled to
return at that time. He felt the property could be best served by
the placement of a hotel on it, rather than a shopping center or
other purposes.
Phil Wagner, 601 5th Street, stated his surprise that a project of
this magnitude was being considered so close to his property. He
felt other residents were not aware of the proposed project. He
then discussed the type of clientele a hotel would generate, the
projected increase in traffic which he felt would have a negative
impact and explained traffic would have to pass in front of his
property if the hotel is built. He requested that heavy trucks be
prohibited if construction of the hotel is approved. Mr. Schubach
stated a copy of the survey would be given to Mr. Wagner.
Howard Longacre, 1221 7th Place, stated a
November 1991, which set the height limit at
the requirements of a "grandfather clause"
should be the height limit on this building.
been granted to this project during a public
building is "wide open".
"vote" had been taken
35 feet. He discussed
and stated he felt 35
No special rights had
meeting. He noted the
Public Hearing closed by Chmn. Merl at 10:21 p.m.
12 P.C.Minutes 6/16/92
The Commission discussed with Mr. Lee the 35-feet height limit,
which did not apply to this particular project due to the City's
continued direction given to the developer, and the project should
be "grandfathered". Comm. Di Monda discussed his concern regarding
the continuances, noting that the "streamlining act" is not being
violated if the applicant requested another continuance, which Mr.
Lee confirmed.
MOTION by Comm. Ketz, seconded by Comm.-Di Monda, to CONTINUE PDP
91-5/CUP 91-26 to the Planning Commission August 4, 1992 meeting.
AYES:
NOES:
Comms. Di Monda, Ketz, Marks, Suard, Chmn. Merl
None
ABSTAIN: None
ABSENT: None
Chmn. Merl suggested Staff convey to the applicant the Gommission
probably will not allow further continuances. Comm. Suard noted
the applicant was waiting for determinations from the Commission
relating to trash enclosure placement and wall height. Mr. Lee
stated the applicant had committed to clean up the site. The
Commission wished to monitor clean-up progress and completion.
HEARINGS
CON 90-8 A REQUEST FOR ONE YEAR EXTENSION OF A CONDITIONAL USE
PERMIT AND VESTING TENTATIVE PARCEL MAP #22100 FOR A TWO-UNIT
CONDOMINIUM AT 626 7TH STREET.
Recommended Action: To grant six month extension.
Mr. Schubach referenced difficulty in construction due to the
economy. He discussed previous action taken by the Commission,
described the project and property location, stating the proposed
project was in the R-2 zone and is consistent with the open space
'policy statement. Staff recommended approval of the requested
six-month extension. Mr. Schubach stated State law would limit the
amount of further extensions. He wished the applicant to under-
stand this limitation on any future extensions.
MOTION by Comm. Di Monda, seconded by Comm.
Staff's recommendation and APPROVE a six-month
90-8.
Suard, to
extension
AYES:
NOES:
Comms. Di Monda, Ketz, Suard, Chinn. Merl
Co.mm. Marks
ABSTAIN: None
ABSENT: None
accept
of CON
CON 90-20 A REQUEST FOR ONE YEAR EXTENSION OF A CONDITIONAL
USE PERMIT AND VESTING TENTATIVE PARCEL MAP #22409 FOR A TWO-UNIT
CONDOMINIUM AT 619 10TH STREET.
13 P.C.Minutes 6/16/92
Recommended Action: To grant six month extension.
Mr. Schubach referenced difficulty in construction due to the
economy. He discussed previous action taken by the Commission,
described the project and property location, stating the proposed
project was in the R-2 zone and is inconsistent with the open space
policy statement as this open space is on the loft level decks.
Mr. Schubach commented the Commission must decide between granting
the extension based on approved plans or requiring modifications
regarding the open space. Staff recommended approval of the
requested six-month extension as this was the first request for an
extension.
MOTION by Comm. Ketz, seconded by Chmn. Merl, to accept Staff's
recommendation and APPROVE a six-month extension of CON 90-20.
AYES:
NOES:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT:
Comms. Di Monda, Ketz, Suard, Chinn. Merl
Comm. Marks
None
None
PS 92-1 POLICY STATEMENT TO DETERMINE THE LAND USE CATEGORY
FOR A DO-IT-YOURSELF BREWERY.
Recommended Action: To classify the proposed do-it-yourself
brewery as "hobby supply" and initiate a text amendment to add
"do-it-your-self brewery" as a permitted use.
Mr. Schubach reiterated Staff's recommendation and noted the
Commission's alternatives. The State Alcoholic Beverage Control
has ruled this business would not require a license. The Federal
Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms stated the business would
.not be regulated, but the beer produced must be for personal use
only. He stated the applicant requested the Commission declare
business to be a hobby supply business, which was within the
purview of the Commission, subject to City Council's confirmation.
He then explained the determinations to be made by the Commission.
Mr. Schubach stated no detailed floor or parking plans had been
submitted. He noted the differences between this proposed business
and other hobby stores, stated Staff had reservations in stating
brewing of beer was a hobby and noted the brewing processes and
equipment which could result in emissions and odors being released.
Staff supports and encourages businesses an enhancements of
downtown business activity, but is not convinced this classifi-
cation would be prudent. The recommended definition and policy
statement would be an interim measure, permitting the proposed
business to operate prior to final adoption of a text amendment.
He stated a cautious approach would be consideration of sponsoring
an amendment adding this business to the permitted use list with a
C.U.P. requirement, which would require the application to submit
an application. He referenced a letter from the City Manager in
support of this proposed business.
14 P.C.Minutes 6/16/92
Comm. Di Monda discussed draft Policy Statement, I. (e) with Mr.
Schubach, stating I. (a) , (b) , ( c) and ( d) should be deleted, as
these paragraphs are covered by I.(e). Mr. Schubach stated removal
of those paragraphs would delete any City-level enforcements and
control. Mr. Lee stated the Stated and Federal regulations could
be adopted by reference as the local regulations, of which para-
graph I. ( e) doesn't necessarily apply. After discussion between
Messrs. Lee and Schubach and Comm. Di Monda regarding the issue of
enforcement, Chmn. Merl suggested "adoption by reference''. Comm.
Di Monda suggested the parking requirement be deleted since a major
parking lot was located within 50 feet. Messrs. Schubach and Lee
suggested a parking code be maintained for this business. Comm.
Ketz stated an individual site was not being reviewed, but rather a
category, to which the Commission agreed. Comm. Suard discussed
his concerns regarding regulation of emissions, to which Mr. Lee
responded with information regarding A.Q.M.D. authority and
enforcement. Comm. Di Monda felt the parking requirements would be
redundant, stating he had a problem listing what is already within
the zoning ordinance and referenced general retail and hobby shop
current parking requirements.
Chmn. Merl invited the applicant to speak.
Patricia Spiritus, 115 Longfellow, said she hoped to have judged
competitions, but would not have a tasting room. She confirmed the
brewing area will have a maximum of 10 kettles of approximately 10
gallons each. The "yeasty" odors will be contained via a hood
filtration system. She stated appointments will be made for the
two-hour process.
Comm. Di Monda felt that the Commission should not be analyzing all
businesses and creating bureaucratic paperwork, but should be
looking at the businesses to determine which could be put into
existing permitted uses. He felt this business qualified as a
"hobby" shop. He stated that if Staff was confused regarding what
a potential business would be listed as, it should be brought to
the attention of the Commission, but saw no need to list what is
adopted by reference (which should be sufficient). He felt the
parking requirement would be met by the parking lot across the
street from the proposed business.
Comm. Ketz asked what the City's recourse would be if odor became a
problem. Mr. Lee responded a complaint could be filed with the
A.Q.M.D., who has specific regulations and personnel for investi-
gation. Mr. Lee agreed to present State Regulations which gave
authority to the A.Q.M.D. to regulate odors. Comms. Marks and Di
Monda discussed the parking issue. Mr. Lee reiterated the Commis-
sion's determination during this meeting was only whether or not
the do-it-yourself brewery should be classified as a hobby supply/
retain use, with parking being addressed by the applicant at a
later date when he/she asked for a variance or presented a parking
plan. Mr. Lee referenced "Requirements subsection F", which is not
15 P.C.Minutes 6/16/92
specifically called out in the State and Federal regulations. He
stated it might be advisable for local purposes to have this as a
requirement and recommended additional verbiage, "Do-it-yourself
breweries shall be considered the same as hobby shop", subject to
the same requirements.
MOTION by Comm. Di Monda, seconded by Comm. Suard, to FIND that a
"do-it-yourself brewery" is a "hobby shop", allowing the _applicant
to continue the requirement permit process and Staff can bring back
a Text Amendment of their concerns at their convenience.
AYES:
NOES:
Conuns. Di Monda, Ketz, Marks, Suard, Chinn. Merl
None
ABSTAIN: None
ABSENT: None
P-10 VEHICLE PARKING ON PUBLIC RIGHT-OF-WAY ALONG BEACH DRIVE
{continued) from May 19., 1992 meeting).
Recommended Action: To review Staff's report to City Council and
confirm Planning Commission recommendation.
Comm. Di Monda fe lt the Commission might wish to give alternatives
in its recommendation to the City Council. The Commission agreed
this item should be continued. Mr. Schubach commented the Council
could require this item prior to further review by the Commission.
MOTION by Comm. Suard, seconded by Comm. Ketz, that due to the
lateness of the hour, this item be CONTINUED to Planning
Commission's July 21, 1992 meeting. No objections, so ordered.
STAFF ITEMS
a. Tentative Future Planning Commission Agenda.
RECEIVE AND FILE
b. Correspondence from MultiVision regarding cablecasting Planning
Commission meetings.
The Commission jointly expressed its incredibility over the
letter content. Mr. Schubach stated the implementation had
been postponed for a short period to allow City Council review.
He stated he would present the Commission's comments and the
Commission members could attend the Council meeting. He stated
that MultiVision had stated essentially that Manhattan Beach
City Council comes first, with this Commission second. The
Commission discussed the possibility of changing the meetings
to Wednesday evenings, reaching no decision. Comm. Suard felt
Hermosa Beach is currently scheduled and Manhattan Beach should
reschedule their requested time, unless the reason for change
was a valid one.
RECEIVE AND FILE
16 P.C.Minutes 6/16/92
J
ADJOURNMENT
MOTION by Comm. Di Monda, seconded by Comm. Ketz, to adjourn at
11:18 p.m. Ho objections; so ordered.
CERTIFICATION
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 June 16, 1992.
Rod Merl; Ch
Date
17 P.C.Minutes 6/16/92