HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes 07/24/1979
M I NUT E S
of the regular meeting of the South San Francisco Planning Commission
TIME: 7:30 p.m.
DATE: JULY 24, 1979
PLACE: WEST ORANGE AVENUE LIBRARY AUDITORIUM 840 West Orange Avenue, SSF
MEMBERS PRESENT: Chairman Campredon, Vice-Chairman Ma~tegani, Commissioners
Bertucelli, Getz IV, Hoyer and Martin
MEMBERS ABSENT: Commissioner Grimes
ALSO PRESENT:
Acting City Planner
Assistant Planner
Daniel B. Christians
Mark A. Wheeler
Chief Building Inspector
Roy Ghi 1 ardi
Director of Public Services/
City Engineer
Community Relations Officer
Robert Yee
John Moran
MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING
Minutes of the Planning Commission Meeting of July 10, 1979
Commissioner Bertucelli moved that the minutes of the regular meeting of the
South San Francisco Planning Commission of July 10, 1979, be approved. The
motion was seconded by Commissioner Martin and was passed by the following
roll call vote:
AYES: Vice-Chairman Mantegani, Commissioners Bertucelli, Hoyer and Martin
NOES: None
ABSENT: Commissioner Grimes
ABSTAINED: Chairman Campredon and Commissioner Getz IV
ANNOUNCEMENT CONCERNING TAPE RECORDING OF MEETING
Announcement was made that this meeting of the South San Francisco Planning
Commission would be recorded on tape, and that anyone who wished to come before
the Commission to be heard is requested to come to the front microphone so that
his or her comments become part of the official record.
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July 24, 1979
CONTINUED PUBLIC HEARING ITEMS
UP-79-503
Negative Declaration No. 224
(Continued from July 10, 1979)
An application of Gordon Kullberg for a Use Permit to construct a 48 unit condo-
minium project and related facilities on vacant property located on the east
side of Mission Road approximately 150 feet north of Chestnut Avenue in the C-O
Zone District.
Staff presented staff report.
Mr. James P. Green - Applicant's Representative
988 Market Street - #700
San Francisco, CA
Mr. Green petitioned the Commission to exempt the applicant's proposal because
of the lack of a need for commercial office space in this area as well as the
time and money having been spent at this time. He further explained his reasons
for a decision of consistency because of the land uses to the east being resi-
dential.
Mr. Green further requested the applicant's request to be exempted from the pro-
hibited land uses as part of the adopted Interim Urgency Ordinance of the City
Council because of the request herein being submitted prior to City Council
adoption.
Dr. Charles Bona
1131 Mission Road
South San Francisco, CA
Dr. Bona expressed his objection based on the predetermination of this property
to be developed for administrative and professional land uses. He further ob-
jected to the determination of compatibility expressed in the past by staff and
adopted by this Commission.
Commissioner Getz IV clarified the applicant's indication of vested rights with
regard to the Commission's right to take a discretionary action.
Commissioner Hoyer requested confirmation on the claim expressed by the applicant's
representative that there exists a surplus of commercial/office space available in
this general area. Commissioner Hoyer requested additional information in this
regard.
Mr. Daniel Christians, Acting City Planner, responded that City studies have indi-
catedthe reverse is the case and that there is a need for such uses in this City.
Mr. Green, the applicant's representative, expressed that the price range for this
condominium project at this time was to be approximately $100,000.
-4156-
July 24, 1979
Commissioner Getz IV suggested that additional information is very critical to
verify the claim of surplus office/commercial land uses in the general area of
this project.
Commissioner Martin expressed his concern regarding the applicant's persistence
in light of the staff recommendations and the applicable ordinances and General
Plan designations having been known by the applicants for the past year.
Mr. Bob Onorato responded that his project proceeded in this direction as a
right of anyone to file an application. He continued to s~ that staff never indi-
cated that a positive decision would result at either the Planning Commission or
City Council level.
Mr. Onorato further explained the amenities of the project with regard to density,
parking, recreational facilities as well as the attempt to design structures in
an architectural design compatible with future office/commercial land uses.
Chairman Campredon asked Mr. Onorato why a subdivision map was not submitted as
part of this condominium development.
Mr.. Onorato replied that all information requested by City staff had been sub-
mitted for the proposed development.
Commissioner Bertucelli further questioned the applicant over his delay in sub-
mitting the necessary subdivision map and Mr. Onorato stated that his previous
answer to Chairman Campredon's question applied.
Commissioner Bertucelli moved that UP-79-503 and Negative Declaration No. 224 be
continued off-calendar until sufficient information has been received to further
consider this item. Commissioner Martin seconded the motion and it was approved
by a unanimous roll call vote.
SUBDIVISION ANQ PARCEL MAPS
PM-79-l78
Negative Declaration No. 209
An application of Rich Diodati for a Final Parcel Map to create four parcels
on vacant property located on the south side 'of Swift Avenue at Haskins Way in
the M-2 Zone District.
Staff presented staff report.
Proponent: Mr. Rich Diodati
1461 San Mateo Avenue
South San Francisco, CA
Mr. Diodati agreed with all conditions, recommendations and limitations.
Commissioner Bertucelli moved that Final PM-79-l78 and Negative Declaration Noo 209
be approved subject to all conditions, recommendations and limitations. Vice-Chair-
man Mantegani seconded the motion and it was passed by a unanimous roll call vote.
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J u 1 y 24, 1 97-9
PUBLIC HEARING ITEMS
UP-79-499
Negative Declaration No. 217
An application of Creative Sign Co. for a Use Permit to erect a freestanding
sign and to establish a car sales and rental facility on developed property
located at 177 South Airport Boulevard in the M-2 Zone District.
Proponents: Terry Stevens - Budget Rent-A-Car
124 Beacon Street
South San Francisco, CA
Noble Stansberry - Creative Sign Co.
61 Moraga Way
Orinda, CA 94563
Staff presented staff report.
Mr. Stevens was opposed to Special Conditions No.3 and 18.
No.3 - That the support poles of the freestanding sign shall be covered with
decorative masonry treatment to the satisfaction of the Design Review
Board.
No. 18 - That prior to issuance of any building permit for exterior improvements,
the applicant shall remove the freeway identification sign and the wall
painted sign at the 124 Beacon Street location.
Mr. Stansberry objected to decorative masonry treatment around support columns.
Commissioner Martin directed staff to request a policy statement from the new
landscape specialist.
Discussion followed regarding the landscaping required and the final Design Review
Board approvals necessary to complete this project.
The Commission concurred to delete the following from Special Conditions No.3 and
18:
No.3 - deletion of the word "masonry"
No. 18 - insertion of the wording "final occupancy approval" in place of the
word "issuance"
Commissioner Hoyer moved that UP-79-499 and Negative Declaration No. 217 be ap-
proved subject to all conditions, limitations and recommendations. Commissioner
Martin seconded the motion and it was approved by a unanimous roll call vote.
UP-79-493
Certified EIR
An application of Best Products, Inc. for a Use Permit to construct an approxi-
mately 95,000 square foot commercial shopping center containing 3 buildings on
vacant property located on the east side of Gellert Boulevard north of Westborough
Boulevard in the C-l Zone District.
JI,,-n
July 24, 1979
Staff presented staff report.
Proponent: Mr. Fred Springer, Walker-Pinkston Companies, Inc.
4491 West Shaw Avenue
Fresno, CA 93711
Mr. Springer requested clarification on Special Conditions No.3, 7 and 8 re-
garding landscaping and signs.
Mr. Pete Andrews, landscape consultant for Walker-Pinkston presented a revised
landscape plan to the Commission.
Because of South San Francisco wind conditions, Commissioner Martin expressed
concern regarding the adaptability of the trees proposed.
Colonel Rhea
Westborough Water District
2263 Westborough Blvd.
South San Francisco, CA
Colonel Rhea indicated that an irrigation meter was delivered today to the
K-Mart people and that the water problem should be solved.
The Commission agreed to require larger trees as stated in the Special Conditions.
Commissioner Martin recommended Special Condition No. 17 be amended to read as
follows:
17. At least 18% (rather than the 10% as originally stated) of the entire site
shall be landscaped.
Special Conditions No.s 6, 7 and 8 were amended* to read as follows:
6. One landscape planter box shall be provided on the promenade sidewalk
area between each archway *or in front of each column for both buildings.
7. A maximum of three (3) wall signs shall be permitted. . . . . . .*150 sq. ft. · ·
8. A comprehensive sign program shall be submitted to the Design Review Board
for their review and approval prior to issuance of an occupancy permit for
those uses. *Maximum of 620 square feet of wall signing may be permitted
on the entire Gellert Boulevard building frontage. A maximum of 60% of the
linear area designated for signs may be permitted for wall signs subject to
review and approval by the Design Review Board. Maximum height may be three
(3) feet per sign. Individual tenants shall be permitted only one sign each
and sign copy not specifically approved in the original sign program shall be
subject to individual Development Permits.
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July 24, 1979
Special Condition No. 20 was added to read as follows:
20. The parking area in front of the lease building shall be redesigned subject
to review and approval of the Design Review Board; building shall be moved
farther westerly; and the resulting areas utilized for additional landscap-
ing and access to assist in meeting the above required conditions.
Commissioner Martin moved that UP-79-493 be appy'oved subject to all conditions,
limitations and recommendations. Commissioner Getz IV seconded the motion and
it was approved by a unanimous roll call vote.
RPD-79-8/SA-79-53
Negative Declaration No. 220
An application of Dominguez Associates to construct 17 single family residences
on vacant property located north of the terminus of Eucalyptus Avenue and east
of Stonegate Drive in the P-C Planned Community Zone District.
Staff presented staff report.
Mrs. Lucille M. Creamer
529 Eucalyptus Avenue
South San Francisco, CA
Mrs. Creamer questioned the proposed freestanding sign and further expressed con-
cern regarding the landscaping and required trash area. It was indicated by
staff that the trash area is not applicable and that landscaping far exceeded the
minimum requirement.
Mrs. Creamer concluded that the project is not representative of the original
project design which she had originally seen.
Proponent: Mr. Renan Dominguez
Dominguez Associates
120 W. Harris Avenue
South San Francisco, CA
Mr. Dominguez indicated some modifications were made; more refinement of the floor
plan in accordance with Design Review Board recommendations.
Vice-Chairman Mantegani indicated that the Design Review Board has, in the past,
not reflected the Commission's desires. Commissioner Getz and the Commission con-
curred that a joint meeting is necessary to achieve the desired results.
The Commission agreed to meet with the Design Review Board prior to the next
regular Planning Commission Meeting at 7:00 p.m., August 14, 1979.
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July 24, 1979
Commissioner Getz IV questioned the number of trees to be removed and the amount
of grading to take place. Mr. Dominguez indicated that 2 trees and approximately
3,000 cubic feet of dirt are to be removed.
Commissioner Hoyer expressed concern regarding the amount of vehicles that can
be expected at the access point at the end of the cul-de-~ac.
Mr. Robert Yee, Director of Public Services/City Engineer,responded to Commissioner
Hoyer's concern by stating that if the City is going to expect the public to use
this park, then a vehicular parking area may be necessary.
Vice-Chairman Mantegani inquired about the sediment pond and Mr. Dominguez replied
that it probably would not be necessary.
Special Condition No.1 was amended* to read as follows:
This development shall be constructed substantially as shown on the
approved plans on file with this case *inc"luding elevations as shown
on plans dated June 14, 1979.
Commissioner Getz IV moved that RPD-79-8/SA-79-53 and Negative Declaration No. 220
be approved subject to all conditions, limitations and recommendations. Vice-
Chairman Mantegani seconded the motion and it was approved by a unanimous roll call
vote.
UP-79-506
Categorical Exemption
An' application of Harry Pari ani for a Use Permit to relocate an existing free-
standing sign on developed property located at 1330 El Camino Real in the C-l
Zone District.
Staff presented staff report.
Proponent: Mr. Harry Pari ani
1330 El Camino Real
South San Francisco, CA
Mr. Pari ani indicated his desire to have the Planning Commission determine that
a Use Permit is not required and that the sign be permitted to be relocated in its
current state.
Discussion followed regarding the applicability of the Use Permit requirement as
required in Section 5.60 of Ordinance 353, as amended and the non-conforming status.
The Commission expressed their opinion of the a.cceptability of the sign as is.
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July 24, 1979
Commissioner Getz IV expressed his oplnlon that the sign should be preserved as
is because he feels that it is classic; a holdover from the 1950's. He continued
to say that the sign should continue to be maintained in its present paint scheme.
Staff indicated that the Zoning Ordinance requires the Planning Commission to,
whenever possible, eliminate non-conforming uses and not allow this signing to
become a precedent.
Commissioner Getz IV recommended revisions to the findings indicated on Page 3
of the Staff Report for approval of this item; deletion of findings 1 and 2 and
renumbering of same. Finding No.3 (previously No.5) has been amended.
The revised findings are as follows:
1. That the proposed relocation is necessary for the successful completion
of the on-going widening of El Camino Real.
2. That the proposed relocation is consistent with the current and updated
General Plan of the City of South San Francisco.
3. That the height of the existing sign is generally excessive but that the
sign is an existing one with unique characteristics which lends character
to the general area.
4. That negative aspects of the proposed relocation can be sufficiently
mitigated through the imposition of conditions and limitations.
5. That the continued use of this sign in its new location in accordance
with these conditions and limitations, will not in this particular case,
be adverse to the public health, safety or general welfare.
6. That the continued use of this sign in its new location in accordance
with the conditions and limitations will not, in this particular case,
be contrary to the Zoning and Sign Ordinances of the City of South San
Francisco.
Vice-Chairman Mantegani moved that UP-79-506 be approved subject to all revised
recommendations, conditions and limitations. Commissioner Hoyer seconded the
motion and it was passed by a unanimous roll call vote.
REPORTS
Report from Planning Commission Subcommittee on proposed Condominium Conversion
Policy Resolution.
Commissioner Getz IV reiterated the subcommittee's reasoning behind the proposed
resolution that will hopefully preserve the balance of housing stock.
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July 24, 1979
Commissioner Getz further explained the minimum number of units necessary in
order to convert to condominiums. His comments centered around the fact that
smaller units cannot provide the level of maintenance and management necessary
to protect the homeowners and the surrounding community.
Mrs. Doris Agee, resident manager, indicated support for the minimum conversion
number of 25 based on experience as well as information based on statements made
by Mr. Carl Jones, an expert on concominium conversion, in a recent ECCO seminar
for the Condominium Association meeting. She further relayed to the Commission
problems experienced in Stonegate Ridge l-A as a direct result of this phase
being only 14 units.
Mr. Malcom S. Kohn
1441 Brentwood Drive
South San Francisco, CA
Mr. Kohn expressed concerns that if the condominium conversions were not approved,
then the result would be co-op development which would bedisastrou's.
Mr. Kohn urged the Commission to condition the approvals of the conversions to
sufficiently mitigate the adverse effects as described by the Commission.
Mr. Roy Ghilardi, Chief Building Inspector, indicated that all condominiums would
be required to be broughtup to code requirements of the Uniform Building Code.
Mr. John Penna
542 Palm Avenue
South San Francisco, CA
Mr. Penna asked if an economic report was submitted to support the subcommittee's
findings.
Commissioner Getz indicated that there was infoY~mation on which the recommended
number was based.
Mr. Penna stated that he was confident that an acceptable management firm could
be obtained contrary to the subcommittee's findings. He concluded by stating
the advantages of individual ownership as compared to apartment living.
Mr. Kohn urged the Planning Commission to consider qualitative controls and the
elimination of quantitative controls.
Commissioner Hoyer expressed appreciation to the subcommittee for an excellent
resolution that will provide a starting point for implementation.
Commissioner Hoyer moved that Resolution No. 2258 entitled "A RESOLUTION OF THE
PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF SOUTH SAN FRANCISCO SETTING FORTH SPECIFIC
POLICIES RELATING TO CONDOMINIUM CONVERSIONS" be adopted. The Commission concurred.
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July 24, 1979
Commissioner Bertucelli moved that Public Hearings be set on August 14, 1979,
to take action on the four pending condominium conversion cases; UP-79-492/SA-79-55,
SA-79-56, 57 and 58. Vice-Chairman Mantegnai seconded the motion and it was ap-
proved by a unanimous roll call vote.
Staff report based on a request of Mr. Robert Murphy to set a public hearing
date to consider a City initiated rezoning of the property located at 401/403
Chestnut Avenue from RPD-10 to R-2 Zone District.
Mr. Robert L. Murphy
179 Utah Avenue
South San Francisco, CA
Mr. Murphy expressed his concern as stated in his letter attached to the staff
report.
After much discussion by Mr. Murphy and the Commission, Chairman Campredon ad-
vised Mr. Murphy to re-file a rezoning application and because of Mr. Murphy's
concern regardi ng the fi 1 i ng fee, submi t a request to the Ci ty Counci 1 for
consideration of a waiver of this fee.
Discussion of a proposed Chestnut Avenue linear park and specific plan for prop-
erty located west of Chestnut Avenue between Hillside Boulevard and Grand Avenue
in the R-l and RPD-10 Zone District.
Discussion followed regarding the designation of Chestnut Avenue as a collector
street.
COMMUNICATIONS
Mr. Christians reminded the Commission of the Special joint Planning Commission
and Design Review Board meeting to be held at 7:00 p.m., August 14, 1979, prior
to the regular Planning Commission Meeting.
There being nothing to discuss under Good and Welfare, Chairman Campredon announced
that the next regular meeting of the Planning Commission would be held on August 14,
1979, at 7:30 p.m. in the tiJest Orange Library Auditorium.
~ mee;ini s adjou aed at 12:30 p.m.
~'.t
Daniel B. Christlans, Acting Secretary Marcel Campredon, Chairman
Planning Commission Planning Commission
City of South San Francisco City of South San Francisco
NOTE: The entries of this Planning Commission meeting indicated the action taken
to dispose of each item. Oral presentations, arguments and documents are
recorded on tape and are available for public discussion in the Planning
Division.
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