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HomeMy WebLinkAboutPC_Minutes_70.08.03MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION HELD IN THE COUNCIL CHAMBERS, CITY HALL, HERMOSA BEACH, ON MONDAY, AUGUST 3, 1970, AT 7:30 P.M. MEETING CALLED TO ORDER AT 7:35 p.m. by Chairman Noble. ROLL CALL: Present: Comm. Foote, Mulfinger, Stabler and Chairman Noble Absent: Comm. Toole* Watters* Collis (* arrived late) Motion by Comm. Stabler, seconded by Comm. Mulfinger, to approve the minutes of the July 20, 1970 meeting with the correction on page 6, under "Jade House Company", that Comm. Foote abstained from voting. AYES: Comm. Foote, Mulfinger, Stabler, and Chairman Noble NOES: None ABSENT: Comm. Collis, Toole and Watters Resolution P.C. 154-778 Comm. Foote noted a typographical error in paragraph two, which should be changed from non -variously to now variously. Motion by Comm. Stabler, seconded by Comm. Mulfinger to approve Resolution P.C. 154-778. AYES: Comm. Foote, Mulfinger, Stabler, and Chairman Noble NOES: None ABSENT: Comm. Collis, Toole and Watters Z-70-5 City Planner Crawford said that this was the third hearing on Mr. Alfred Bowman's request for a change of land use zone from R-1 with R-2 Potential to R-2 as the matter had been continued in order for the staff to prepare additional material for possible standards or guidelines to be applied in the utilization of the R-2 potential for the property. He said that there were only eight lots in the area which did not have some non-conformance. He suggested some "ground rules" to be applied to the area: 1. Normally, new construction is to be encouraged, of essentially single family -home type atmosphere, with second unit intended to help support same -all units should be at least 1500 square feet in area. 2. Older buildings may be converted or added to only when they can be brought up to current building code standards, and are judged physically safe. -2- 3. Any addition to an older building shall be done in such a way as to create the visual impression that the two structures are one. 4. That no non -conforming garage structure may be retained unless it is physically unseparable from the dwelling. 5. 0' sideyards may be allowed only under provisions of Resolution P.C. 154-717. 6. Elevations and landscape plans shall be submitted with all requests to utilize R-2 Potential in order to assure that proposals will blend with neighboring properties. Comm. Stabler read an analysis by Comm. Collis . Public hearing opened: 7:54 p.m. Mr. Alfred C. Bowman, 2024 Strand, commented on #1 of Mr. Crawford's suggestions: he felt that if you assume that you want to have the appearance of a single family dwelling with an additional unit to be the object, you would be unable to accomplish this with the smaller unit being 1,500 square feet. Mr. Bowman then summed up the background on his request: He wished to build a large separate living room, removed from the kitchen, and add a separate living unit with another kitchen. On October 6, 1969, the Planning Commission had considered changing the zone back to R-2 from R-1, but instead changed to R-1 with R-2 Potential. At that time the Commission said that the area was destined to be zoned R-2 in the near future, and that each application would be considered separately and if it is reasonable it would be approved. They planned to hold study sessions for precise planning which would enhance property values. Mr. Bowman continued that in the light of the ordinance, his house seemed to quality on the basis of age, could be brought up to code, had three enclosed garages, building area in front, needed beautifying, and he was flexible as to architectural features. He said in view of these facts, he questioned the denial .of his request because of the Chairman's statement last October, and hoped that the Commission would act favorably at this time. Comm. Toole arrived at 8: 03 p.m. Comm. Watters arrived at 8: 07 p.m. Mr. Bowman said that he could not promise that here would never be a tenant on his premises, and also that if his application was unsuccessful, he would then submit alternate plans. He said he didn't understand the reason why the Commission did not approve his plans, and thought it could only be for one of two reasons: (1) that the Commission didn't like the plans, -3- or (2) , wished to destroy all of the old homes. Mrs. Virgina Kelsey, 1942 Strand, said that Mr. Bowman's house would not be purchased with a view of tearing it down as there was too much land in front. She said she did disagree with the 1.500 square foot stipulation for all units in the area. Mrs. Mary Donahue, 2008 Strand, said that owners must build units in order to afford to build. She felt that they should be allowed a parking area on the second side and build to the line on the other, which would give a double garage and parking area. Mrs. Alfred C. Bowman commented that she was very anxious to employ a landscape gardener, and also to consult with the Parks Supervisor, to establish a beautiful garden in the new development. No one appeared to speak in opposition. Publich hearing closed at 8:14 p.m. Chairman Noble questioned the stipulation that all units should be at least 1,500 square feet in area, asking Mr. Crawford for his reasoning behind it. Mr. Crawford said it had been to provide a two family homesite, but that upon reflection, he agreed with the suggestion of the property owners that the second unit be smaller deliberately to keep it as a one -family with rental had a great deal of merit. Comm. Stabler repeated his comments from thb previous meeting that he didn't object to Mr. Bowman's plans in themselves, but did not wish to set precedents. He agreed with Mr. Bowman that the Commission had been negligent in following up on their study sessions of the area, since it was part of the Commission's commitment when they changed the zone. He also commented on Comm. Collis' letter to the Commission outlining his ideas on stan- dards for potential development, and said he felt the Commission should show concern over developing the standards. Comm. Foote said that if the original intent of the zone change was that each plan should be judged on its own merit, he felt Mr. Bowman had done the proper thing and answered fully the requirement. Chairman Noble said that the Commission was aware when they received requests that there would be non -conformity, and they should judge each request on whether or not the existing property or the surrounding property would be detrimentally affected by the added structure. Motion by Comm. Foote, seconded by Comm. Toole to approve the Precise Plan #23 as stated as the basis of further approval of the zone change for this particular property, and to review every presentation in this area with the perogative to approve or deny or to suggest change to those other plans and to either approve or deny. AYES: Comm. Foote, Mulfinger, Stabler, Toole, Watters and Chairman Noble NOES: None ABSENT: Comm. Collis Motion by Comm. Foote, seconded by Comm. Watters that Resolution P.C. 154-779 be adopted recommending that Lot 5, Block 21, First addition to Hermosa Beach Tract be changed from R-1 with R-2 Potential to R-2 subject to Precise Plan #23. AYES: Comm. Foote, Mulfinger, Stabler, Toole, Watters and Chairman Noble. NOES: None ABSENT: Comm. Collis Motion by Comm. Stabler, seconded by Comm. Foote, to refer study of R-2 in this area to Zoning Committee. Unanimous. Conditional Use Permit - Contessa Ceramics• 601 Pacific Coast Highway A Conditional Use Permit issued to Leigh La Rue to conduct an open air business, subject to conditions. City Planner Crawford explained that since this business had not complied with the original stipulations of their Conditional Use Permit, a public hear- ing was being held to consider whether the Conditional Use Permit should be revoked. He reviewed various actions of the Commission during the past two years in extending the time limit to accomplish these requirements, and said that the applicant had again requested an extension of time because a new Manager would be installed who could comply with conditions imposed. Public hearing opened: 8:46 p.m. Mrs. McEwen, representative for the Perris China Manufacturing Company, said that an older, reliable man who has managed the San Bernardino es- tablishment, would be managing the Hermosa store, and she anticipated that it would be stocked with the landscaping finished in two weeks time. She planned to have twisted junipers in the planters. Public hearing closed: 8:54 p.m. Motion by Comm. Toole, seconded by Comm. Foote, to postpone the -5- revocation of the Conditional Use Permit until the next meeting of the Planning Commission in order for the applicant to comply with the condi- tions, and that a report be submitted and the new manager present at that meeting. AYES: Comm. Foote, Mulfinger, Stabler, Toole, Watters, and Chairman Noble. NOES: None ABSENT: Comm. Collis Conditional Use Permit C-69-8 A Conditional Use Permit to manufacture ceramic products in a C-3 zone, issued June 2, 1969 to Ronald Langseth and Luis Leon at 246 Pacific Coast Highway, subject to conditions. City Planner Crawford said all conditions had been complied with, but since their business is just really getting underway, it might be wise to review again in another year. Motion by Comm. Watters, seconded by Comm. Mulfinger, to extend the Conditional Use Permit on the property at 246 Pacific Coast High- way for another year, subject to the same conditions. AYES: Comm. Foote, Mulfinger, Stabler, Toole, Watters and Chairman Noble. NOES: None ABSENT: Comm. Collis Conditional Use Permit C-76-2 City Planner Crawford said that the Conditional Use Permit had been granted to Lerner Oil Company on February 2, 1976 subject to a six month review. He said that the landscaping had not been complied with. Mr. John Rogers of Lerner Oil Company assured the Commission that the stipulation on landscaping would be taken care of in two weeks. Motion by Comm. Watters, seconded by Comm. Toole to comply with landscaping requirement and return to the Commission at their next meeting. AYES: Comm. Foote, Mulfinger, Stabler, Toole, Watters and Chairman Noble NOES: None ABSENT: Comm. Collis Q:m Review of Zone_ Determination "Specialized Sports and Recreation Equipment" 1332 Hermosa Avenue City Planner Crawford reviewed past Commission actions on this business, closing with the statement that the applicant had been allowed two weeks to remove all automobile parts and other incidental equipment, and that same had not been removed. Mr. George Yorg, 1026 Manhattan Beach Boulevard, Manhattan Beach, stated that although many offers have been made to rent this property for restaurants, dance halls, etc. , the owners were very careful to choose an acceptable tenant. He said he had looked through uses allowed in the C-2 district and could not see why the Conditional Use Permit would apply in this case, as it was not any more detrimental than a pool hall. He said that it is very difficult to separate the sale of parts from the sale of kits. He said that since there was a lease involved, it would be very damaging for the owner if it were breached. Mr. De Smidt, applicant, commented that there were three service stations and a body shop within three blocks, and other stores where used equipment is sold. He said he didn't feel his business is this type as they are not doing any manufacturing or selling of used equipment, and all the presently stored equipment will be removed when the other building is finished. City Planner Crawford recommended that the resolution be amended and a list be included as a guide to the operator. Mr. Crawford clarified the point, after considerable discussion by the Commission on whether it would be permissible to sell related parts for the dune buggy and mini -bike kits in the C-2 zone, that the answer might lie in granting the separate sale of automotive equipment that are part of the kits. Motion by Comm. Toole, seconded by Comm. Watters , to amend P.C. 154-769 to add "except that up to seven different display models, not for sale, may be displayed, " and "except that the sale of new automotive parts which are part of the dune buggy and mini -bike kits is permitted. " AYES: Commri Foote, Mulfinter, Stabler, Toole, Watters, and Chairman Noble NOES: None ABSENT: Comm. Collis South Ardmore Zone Change Proposals City Planner Crawford displayed some maps which encompassed the study -7- the Planning Commission has made concerning zone changes in the south Ardmore area. He said the final recommendation of the Planning Commission shown on the over -lay is R-3 for everything east of Ardmore and south of 2nd Street, and R-1 with R-3 Potential north and west of Ardmore. Comm. Stabler suggested discussing the matter with the R-3 zone, and Comm. Watters said that his committee was forming a citizen's advisory committee for the Herondo area, and would like his committee to be in- volved in this also. Planned Development Zone Comm. Stabler reported that at the last meeting of the committee, City Planner Crawford had presented an ordinance from Indianapolis which dealt with a land use intensity scale, fixing open space ratios, car ratios, living space ratios as. absolutes. It set up thirteen different zones each of which took a slice of the scales and said that this is the way building should be within a particular zone. He also said that the draft of the Planned Use Development is finished and is being evaluated by the Committee. Comm. Foote suggested that the draft could be submitted to the American Institute of Architects for their review and comments. The next meeting( of the Committee will be August 25, at the Surfboarder Restaurant. Revised R-3 Zone City Planner Crawford recommended that a public hearing be set for August 17, 1970 to consider the revised R-3 zone. Comm. Stabler moved, Comm. Toole seconded. So ordered. Revisions to Articles 13 and 14 of City ZoninQ Ordinance A public hearing has been set at the August 17, 1970 meeting to consider these revisions. Comm. Mulfinger moved, Comm. Toole seconded. So ordered. Pacific Coast Highway liiirovement Committee Comm. Watters told of the progress being made by the combined efforts of the Improvement Commission, Planning Commission, Chamber of Commerce, city staff and crews to update and refurbish Pacific Coast Highway. A walk had been held and a letter dispatehbd to all merchants in the area. A mass meeting will be held August 20, at Vasek Polak's showroom. The city expects to begin improvements on curbs, utility poles, etc., by September 8, and many of the merchants have already begun to re- paint their buildings. Request of Building Director for clarification of Section 801 (1) . The Commission will conduct a survey of businesses which may be con- ducting their work in the open air rather than within their buildings, and they will consider an interpretation of Section 801 at their next meeting, August 17. Adjournment at 10:45 p.m. to August 17, 1970, 7:30 p.m. CERTIFICATION I hereby certify that the foregoing minutes have Commission of the City of Hermosa Beach at of August, 1970. r DA r Jo JAMES D. COLLIS, Secretary the Planning d on the 3rd N BLE, Chairman