HomeMy WebLinkAbout10.02.97 Minutes
MINUTES
PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING
MUNICIPAL SERVICES BUILDING
33 ARROYO DRIVE
October 2, 1997
CALL TO ORDER / PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
The meeting was called to order at 7:30 p.m.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
MEMBERS PRESENT:
Chairman Romero, Vice Chairman Barnett, Commissioner Masuda,
Commissioner Sim, Commissioner Teglia, Commissioner Baldocchi,
Commissioner Honan
MEMBERS ABSENT:
None
ALSO PRESENT:
Planning Division
Jim Harnish
Steve Carlson
Susy Kalkin
Mike Lappen
Katherine Wellman
Sgt. Ron Petrocchi
Sgt. Mike Massoni
Richard Harmon
Ray Honan
City Attorney
Police Dept.
Engineering Division
Water Quality Control Plant
Chairman Romero announced that the item originally scheduled for the October 2, 1997 meeting for 375
Dorado Way/Avalon School had been continued to the October 16, 1997 meeting. He also announced that
Item # 7 for 3500 Callan Boulevard was removed from the agenda and will be agendized for the first meeting
in November.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES: February 20,1997, March 20, 1997, and September 18, 1997.
Vice Chairman Barnett abstained from the March 20, 1997 minutes; Commissioner Honan abstained from
the February 20, 1997 and March 20, 1997 minutes; and Commissioners Masuda, Teglia, and Baldocchi
abstained Sept. 18, 1997 minutes. Motion Sim/Second Teglia. Minutes approved.
C:\working\minutes\l 00297. wpd
PC Mtg.l 0/02/97
1 of 12
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS: None
CONSENT CALENDAR: None
PUBLIC HEARING - AGENDA ITEM
1. 203 Linden Avenue" AnnIicant: Anselmo Revelo: Owner: Robert Giorl!i" UP-97-054"
Cate20rical Exemntion Class 1" Section 15301
Use Permit to allow a commercial recreation use (karaoke, live bands and dancing) with hours of
operation from 10:00 a.m. until 2:00 a.m., seven days a week, within an existing bar and full service
restaurant at 203 Linden Avenue, in the Downtown Commercial (D-C) Zone District, in accordance
with SSFMC 20.26.060 (a).
Planner Lappen presented report and briefed the Commission on concerns expressed by the Commission at
the previous Planning Commission meeting.
Mr. Anselmo Revelo reiterated his previous disagreement with the need for a uniformed security guard, and
condition disallowing his live band consisting of a flute, guitar and keyboard, citing his need for a theme for
his establishment.
Commissioner Barnett raised his concerns about the upstairs of the location being a fire hazard and the lack
of fire wall between the downstairs and upstairs. Chief Planner Harnish stated that the building officials, who
are also inspectors for the fire department, inspected the building and the only violations they cited were for
construction without permits. He added that there is no requirement for exposed studs to be sheet rocked,
and fire walls are not required within the same building. In addition, he added that, there needs to be
relationship between issues being raised and the permit, and asked the Assistant City Attorney to address.
Assistant City Attorney Wellman explained that the matter before the Commission is for an extended hours
of an existing use, and not for a new use. She added that the Commission must connect the issues being
raised with the permit request. Chairman Romero stated that he felt that Commissioner Barnett has a valid
concern and he would like to see the matter referred to the building division as a safety concern. Discussions
followed on the hours during which food would be served, how the condition of not having minors present
beyond 9:00 would be enforced, and whether the request for a live band could should be considered with
certain restrictions. Sgt. Massoni addressed the enforcement issue, and reassured the Commission that they
would have no problems enforcing what was presented in the report, but would have a problem with the live
band. He further added that the police department can close the establishment down without bringing it back
before the Commission, should problems occur. Following discussions of various considerations to limit the
days and hours of operations, Vice Chairman Barnett made a motion to approve the Use Permit with an
amendment limiting the days of operation of the karaoke and music to Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and
Sunday between the hours of9:00 p.m. and 1 :00 a.m., and adding a six month review period/Second Masuda.
Approved by majority voice vote. Chairman Romero and Commissioner Honan opposed.
C:\working\minutes\l 00297. wpd
PC Mtg.l 0/02/97
2 of 12
2. 1350 San Mateo Avenue" Annlicant: Geor2e Avanessian: Owner: Robert Chan2" UP-97-058"
Cate20rical Exemntion Class 1" Section 15301 (2) (a)
Use Permit to allow construction ofa 9,053 square foot addition to an existing office and warehouse
building, totaling 15,742 square feet, and conversion of the building from single to multi-tenant
occupancy at 1350 San Mateo Avenue in the M-l Industrial Zone District in accordance with SSFMC
20.30.040 (h).
Consulting Planner Lappen presented the report.
Mr. George Avanessian, the applicant and architect representing the owners stated that the same project had
originally been approved six years ago, but due to the timing, was never completed. He added that they have
no problems with the conditions, and accept them as written. Following questions posed by the Commission
regarding signage. Mr. Avanessian stated that this would be determined once a tenant is established, but
would be like others on San Mateo Avenue. Mr. Lappen indicated that there was an error in the number of
spaces shown on the report; that the 17 spaces should be 18, as required and provided. Another condition
provides that future signage is subject to approval, and parking requirements must remain within the required
standards. He added that any changes for office or warehouse requests would require coming back to the
Commission and would not be permitted. Commissioner Teglia made a motion to approve/Barnett/Second.
Approved by majority voice vote.
3. 490 Noor Avenue" Owner/Annlicant: Svufv EnterDrises"UP-97-059" Certified Ne2ative
Declaration 792
Use Permit to allow construction of a 12,950 sq. ft. retail/commercial building with a drive-thru
window, in accordance with SSFMC 20.24.070 (a).
Senior Planner Kalkan presented the report provided some background information and restrictions
established by the approved PUD. She stated that this proposal requires a use permit only because of the
drive thru window, otherwise it conforms with the PUD approved in 1995. The Design Review Board has
reviewed the proposed architecture of the building, and was complimentary of the design and sign program.
The proposal includes a drive-up teller machine for one of the tenants, San Mateo Credit Union, and the
building could accommodate up to two additional tenants. The proposed drive up facility is designed to
accommodate 5 vehicles in the cue lane. Planning, Engineering, Police staff have reviewed the proposal, and
an outside engineering company specializing in traffic issues has been consulted, and found it to be adequate
for automatic teller use. A letter from an adjacent property owner, Alioto group who share parking has
withdrawn their opposition after reviewing application. The project was previously approved as a PUD and
included a share parking arrangement, and in all other aspects the project meets or exceeds the requirements
of the Zoning Ordinance.
Al Stewart representing Syufy enterprises spoke on behalf of the project and indicated that the representative
for the credit union's architect, as well as their architect were present and would be in a better position to
respond to any questions. Commissioner Masuda had a question regarding the grade and whether there was
any possibility that circulation could be shared with the Safeway parking lot. Ms. Kalkin stated that the grade
was too steep and would require going through the Safeway parking lot back to Huntington. Commissioner
Honan had a question regarding the entrance to the drive up window. Peter Sandhold, the architect
C:\working\minutes\1 00297. wpd
PC Mtg.l 0/02/97
3 of 12
representing the credit union stated that the entrance would be from N oor Avenue.
Other issues raised were, traffic light, reciprocal parking, misleading signs etc. Ms. Kalkin explained that
provisions of the 1995 permit allows dedicated parking spaces for exclusive use for the Pay and Pak building
as well as this building. Commissioner Teglia raised the issue of landscaping and the possibility of upgrading
the landscaping to include trees that will withstand the wind. Chairman Romero raised a concern that the
original permit had a provision that applicant would provide monthly attendance figures for the parking, and
asked if the figures were available. Ms. Kalkin stated that the intent was to begin monitoring when another
use is established since the theater currently has such a large availability to parking.
Ms. Wellman reminded the Commission that the item before them was only for the drive up window, and
other issues being raised have previously been approved by Council and are final decisions, and cannot be
reconsidered at this point. Chairman Romero stated that only the 13,000 square foot pad had been approved,
and he felt that the approval for the building should have come to the Commission for approval before going
to the Council and cited wording from the staff report. Mr. Harnish provided an explanation on
interpretations and added that projects that go to the Design Review Board do not always come before the
Commission in actions previously approved by Council which only need building permits. Chairman Romero
expressed his surprise to hear that the building did not have to come back to them for approval and felt that
this was being handled backwards where the building goes in first, than parking considered.
Ms. Wellman stated that she had spoken with the City Attorney, Mr. Mattas earlier and he informed her that
the parking had been calculated in 1995, and was not an issue for this permit. It was determined that in
monitoring, if a problem exists, the city has the potential at this point to address the problem. Mr. Harnish
added that it would be the theater that would be affected should any problems occur. Following extensive
discussions, Ms. Wellman pointed out that the uses have previously been determined. Chairman Romero
stated that he would like to see the monitoring implemented. MotionlBarnett - Second/Teglia to approve.
Approved by majority voice vote.
Chairman Romero made a recommendation that the applicant work with the Cultural Arts Commission since
this is an entrance to the City, and they are interested in improving the entrances to South San Francisco.
Recess 8:45 p.m.
The meeting was called to order 9:04 p.m.
4. 460 Pt. San Bruno" Genentech" ZA-97-068
Genentech Research & Development Overlay District, Annual Report, as provided by S SFMC
Section 20.39.080; proposed amendment to zoning ordinance of the "Research & Development
Overlay District Regulations" (Chapter 20.39) and the "Genentech Research & Development Overlay
District" regulations (Chapter 20.40); Previously Approved Negative Declaration No. 805 for DR-
95-999.
Vice Chairman Barnett stepped down from the dias and did not participate in this item due to a possible
conflict.
Consulting Planner Lappen presented the report. He stated that this item addresses the requirement for an
C:\working\minutes\l 00297 .wpd
PC Mtg.l 0/02/97
4 of 12
annual status report, and also includes a proposal for amendment to zoning ordinance. He provided a
summary of the report, and added that Mr. Peter Yee, the representative for Genentech was available and
would be giving his presentation.
Mr. Peter Yee, Principal Planner for Genentech provided background information and presented details on
various documents and renderings covering information on anticipated time and description of future
projects, and review of past projects. He indicated that the report was meant to be a communication tool,
where Genentech can come in and speak to the Commission about projects which have been completed and
planned for the future. He explained how he has worked with the City for a number of years to establish the
master plan which fits in with the General Plan and East of 101 Plan while addressing site development issues
and establishes design guidelines for future projects.
He spoke of the award presented to the City by San Mateo County Economic Development Association
(SAMCEDA) recognizing the accomplishments of establishing this overlay district. The award is awarded
annually to a public agency for innovative thinking.
He stated that the master plan does not circumvent any of the procedures, and every project comes before
the Commission for review. He provided updates for the benefit of new Commissioners on the Genentech
campus operations and provided an update on actions taken since the master plan went into effect and future
plans. He described the various projects for the lower, middle and upper campus locations. .......::::::::::...:::::::::::.....:.......:::::::::::::::::::::::..::
RfigmQtYllm1~tl.
Mr. Yee stated that Genentech is committed to the City and spoke to concerns regarding their Vacaville
location. He stated that the operation is strictly a manufacturing site, which will not impact this operation
which is the heart of the company.
Commissioner Teglia stated that he was not aware of existing the minor use permit process in this plan, and
asked staff to explain how it works. Chief Planner Harnish explained that this involves issues determined by
the Commission and Council to be minor to the extent that staff could conduct the hearing, where public
concern is not an issue. He added that the hearing requires the same noticing, an administrative hearing is
conducted by the Zoning Administrator testimony, if any is taken. Any actions taken would have to be
consistent with the adopted master plan. Any opposition to a proposed change would come back to the
Commission for approval.
Chairman Romero asked if there were any other minor use permits before the recent one conducted by Mr.
Harnish. Chairman Romero indicated that there was a stipulation that the Commission would be notified
whenever minor use permits were approved, and added that he does not recall having been notified of any
other minor use permits. Mr. Harnish stated that he did not find reference to notification of the Commission
being necessary. He notified them because he felt it should be done, however, the Commission may want to
include a provision to codify that provision.
Chairman Romero stated that he would like to visit the facility to see what has been approved without their
knowledge. Mr. Yee stated that he thought a couple of projects have gone through minor use permit
approval process. He added that he welcomes a tour of the facility and would be happy to provide one. He
added that the review process as adopted two years ago requires a full architectural review. Mr. Harnish
made a suggestion that if the Commission was comfortable with other issues, and the only concern was the
building size, perhaps they could pull that and proceed with recommendations on the other changes, they
other issues could be brought back. Commissioner Baldocchi asked Mr. Yee why they were requesting a
C:\working\minutes\l 00297. wpd
PC Mtg.l 0/02/97
5 of 12
change in the review period from one year to two. Mr. Yee responded that since activity is slowing down
and not at the same level as previous years, it seemed appropriate to extend the review time, however they
are open to include language such as "two years, or as needed".
Chairman Romero stated that he didn't consider these as major items, and would be comfortable with it
coming back to them as a consent item.
Commissioner Masuda raised questions about the bus service and availability of federal money for shuttle
buses. Mr. Harnish stated that the city has retained a consultant looking into those issues. He added that the
General Plan in terms of congestion relief and transportation issues looking toward growth in the East of 101
area in particular, focuses on transportation issues. Mr. Yee stated that the City Manager and city staffhave
been working on transportation issue, which is very complex. He added that Genentech has two shuttles, but
other companies face problems meeting requirements related to issues such as is liability insurance.
Commissioner Sim expressed pride in what Mr. Yee and Genentech are doing which has gained them
recognition, and added that he was very happy that it is in our city.
Mr. Harnish suggested continuing this item to the November 6 meeting, adding that he would arrange for
tour. Commissioner Baldocchi requested that the wording change from "one year" to " twenty four months
or less ifneed be", adding that Genentech may not need an annual report, however other agencies may, and
she felt it was important that the Commission have the opportunity to made that determination. Discussions
followed on whether the overlay district applied only to the Genentech , or could they apply to other R&D
overlay districts that could come up. Mr. Harnish said that he thought that the changes could be made to the
Genentech overlay district but was not sure. It was determined that it would be best to continue the item and
this would be researched. Mr. Harnish asked if there were any other issues to be addressed when this comes
back. Nothing else was added. Commissioner Teglia made a motion to continue the item to the November
6 meeting! Second Masuda. Motion passed by unanimous voice vote.
5. Downtown Flexibility Zoning Administrator & Minor Use Permit Ordinances" City of South
San Francisco" Aoolicant" ZA-96-014: Ne2ative Declaration No. ND-96-014 & ND-96-113
(Continued front June 19. Julv 17. and August 21.1997)
Zoning Text Amendments which:
. Establish regulations for the Downtown Residential Overlay District
. Amendments to apply City wide: amend the setback requirements of garages and carports built on
lanes (920.71.040); allow wheelchair access structures in the front yards of residential properties
(920.71.050); allow fences up to eight feet in height in the rear yard subject to the approval of a
minor use permit (920.73.020(D)); allow the City Engineer to approve or recommend approval of
driveway widths less than standard (920.74. 150(C)); allow private residential handicap parking spaces
be placed in required yards where there is not an alternative space available, subject to the approval
of a minor use permit (920.74.125); modify the definitions of Family Day Care Homes and Large
Family Day Care by increasing the number of children from 12 to 14 to conform with changes in State
Law (920.06.100(F)); Amend the zoning procedures by creating a "Zoning Administrator" and a
"Minor Use Pernlit" procedure (adding chapters 20.80 and Chapter 20.89). Further, amending the
appeals and notice and hearing procedures and requirements to reflect the aforementioned new
procedural chapters (amending Table 20.88.040 and Chapter 20.90); and a Negative Declaration of
environmental impact regarding the amendment.
C:\working\minutes\l 00297. wpd
PC Mtg.l 0/02/97
6 of 12
Senior Planner Kalkin presented report.
Commissioner Romero stated that he has a problem with delegating the chief planner, then he can delegate
to someone else. He added that the mechanism is now available to appeal the Zoning Administrator decision.
He felt that the two main issues could be addressed. Commissioner Teglia asked about the possibility of
extending the 15 day appeal period. Ms. Wellman explained that 15 day appeal period would not begin until
after the Commission has approved it. Mr. Harnish explained that the minutes would only be action minutes
as opposed to dialogue and discussion. Any dialogue beyond clarifying that everything is in order, the action
would be continued and brought before the Commission. The minutes would essentially be a Notice of
Action. Mr. Harnish added that he would schedule Minor Use Permit on alternate Thursdays and the Friday
packet distribution for regular meetings would contain the minutes for approval. Commissioner Masuda made
a motion to approve. Commissioner Teglia moved to amend the motion to include staff's wording eliminating
Section b. 20.80.020 that only the Chief Planner and Director of Economic and Community Development
be the Zoning Administrator, and that staff's option #2, scheduling the meetings within a 15 day period.
Commissioner Sim seconded. Approved by majority voice vote.
Recess was called at 10: 12 p.m.
The meeting was called to order 10:20 p. m.
6. 753 Del Monte Avenue" SSFUSD/EI Rancho School Site" Standard Buildin2 Comoanv" Owner
and Aoolicant" SA-97-037 & DR-97-037: Miti2ated Ne2ative Declaration 97-037 and 97-037
Tentative Subdivision Map to subdivide a 10 acre site into 39 lots for single family residences, and
a School District Facility, in accordance with SSFMC Chapter 19.48; and Design Review of38 single
family dwelling units, in accordance with SSFMC Title Chapter 20.85.
Commissioner Sim stepped down from the dias and did not participate in this item due to possible conflict.
Senior Planner Carlson presented the report.
Mr. John Ochsner representing Sunstream Homes made a brief presentation and indicated that they agree
with the staff recommendations. He indicated that they have met with the neighborhood. Several issues such
as drainage and trees have been reviewed and they have been able to resolve most of those concerns. There
were several other issues remaining which they have not been able to satisfy such as the rear yard access and
should building take place on the site at all.
Denise Bruno from 148 Romney Avenue, plot #9 spoke against the project. She stated that they did not
receive notice of this meeting, and she was not aware of the meeting until late this afternoon, and did not have
adequate notification for concerned residents from Romney, Serra, Byron and Del Monte to attend. She
stated that Sunstream Homes had been asked to have another meeting and keep them informed to discuss
issues such as privacy of their single dwelling homes. She stated that she has been a resident for 42 years and
has had access to the adjacent lot to El Rancho School for 40 years. She stated there are only two homes
on Romney and Serra that do not have access of a gate either vehicle or pedestrian to the area. She cited
concerns about their privacy, impact, length of construction. The two story homes will be looking into the
homes of the homes below them and other streets. She spoke of the proposal to reverse the order of grading
C:\working\minutes\l 00297. wpd
PC Mtg.l 0/02/97
7 of 12
which have not been adequately addressed. She added that they are in the process of obtaining signed
petitions from those who were unable to attend to present to Council if this is approved by the Commission.
She cited that the environmental issues have not adequately been addressed and stated that a San Francisco
Garter snake as been trapped and took it to the humane society and it was identified as such. They also
requested a summer/winter solstice study, which has not been done. She stated that she has been in touch
with a land use attorney regarding the rear access, he has told her that he would research the South San
Francisco ordinance, but if you had access prior to this ordinance, it should not be rescinded.
Chairman Romero asked if they had received a notice. She stated that they did not receive a notice.
Commissioner Baldocchi expressed a concern that a study session had not been scheduled for this project.
Mr. Harnish explained that a study session is not always scheduled, and this project was considered to be one
where the issues were clear enough that it was not felt that a study session was necessary.
Commissioner Barnett spoke of the notification process. Mr. Carlson stated that it would be necessary to
check with support staff and the notification records were not before him this evening. Explained the - 300'
radius notice, and stated that ordinarily staff notifies beyond 300'. Mr. Harnish stated that the records in
the office would show what notices were mailed, and added that the meeting had also been noticed in the
paper.
Commissioner Honan asked if the representatives of Sunstream could speak to the privacy of homes issues.
Mr. Ochsner stated South San Francisco has varying heights throughout including Serra Highlands versus
Winston Manor where some homes look into other homes. Sometimes the windows can be situated in a
manner to prevent the situation, however because of the school and the ball fields, the same situation exists
now. Commissioner Baldocchi stated that there's a difference between a 6 foot person standing on a ball park
and a 31 foot house. Mr. Ochsner explained that some measures have been in an effort to remediate this
problem to the extent possible.
Assistant City Attorney Wellman suggested that since a question was raised on proper noticing, the
Commission might consider continuing this to the next regularly scheduled meeting . It would eliminate the
need to re-publish in the paper, and staff could be instructed to verify the mailings, and re-mail notices, since
concerned neighbors who may not have received notices should be included in the discussions taking place
now. Also this might be a good time to give direction to the applicant as to what should come back.
Commissioner Masuda wanted to know if there was a PG&E easement between between #9 and the
property. Mr. Bob Kent spoke and stated that there was not. He also spoke on the two story home. The
second story would be looking down into this neighbor's rear yard. He stated that the only rear windows on
the second story are in the master bedroom, and the fixed glass could be moved 8' or higher and any
windows that are opened could be placed on the side of the house. This could be added as a condition. He
added that continuing the item is a problem in that they have certain contractual obligations to the School
District as well as meeting certain time lines in order to start grading during the periods allowed by the City.
Commissioner Masuda asked if a sketch plan could be drawn up to show a street between the existing homes
and that property. The developer added that they spoke with staff regarding the relocation of the street.
Public Works does not allow intersections to be within 100 feet of each other. Every project done in last five
years, City requires a masonry wall so homeowners cannot have access to two streets, and also required that
the CC&R's include that there would be no future gates into wall by homeowners. So moving the street
would not resolve the those issues. Another issue would be the grading issue which might require a retaining
wall where now trees and natural terrain exist.
C:\working\minutes\l 00297. wpd
PC Mtg.l 0/02/97
8 of 12
Vice Chairman Barnett stated that it was nice to see a project that meets all the city's requirements and has
fairly large lots. He expressed his concerns for the surrounding neighbors, but explained that empty land will
be used for building homes and every neighborhood will be impacted by similar concerns as those raised
here. Progress can't be stopped, because neighbors were fortunate enough for fifteen years to have a great
situation backing up to El Rancho School.
Commissioner Baldocchi stated that she agreed that houses are going to be built, however there is very little
land left, building is going to take place on the land, it should be done right. The homes and neighborhoods
are going to be in the community for a long time. She also added that she did not feel that the School
District's time schedule should be a consideration here. She expressed a desire to continue this and come up
with alternatives and insure that proper noticing takes place. In answer to more specifically what she wanted,
she stated that either another street, or a different design.
Mr. Harnish stated that since this is going to Council there will be another hearing, to assure that adequate
notice send out new notices for the Council meeting, and felt that the Commission may be able to provide
advice since final action is not being taken. He also spoke to the issue of moving street does violates city
standards, and there are no other alternatives to preserve the informal access to the school property.
Commissioner Honan stated that she felt that if the street can't be put in, the suggestion by the developer to
raise the windows higher up was an excellent suggestion. She asked if there were any other alternatives. The
developer stated that they have looked at other alternatives, but due to the configuration have not been able
to come up with another alternative.
Vice Chairman Barnett expressed his surprise at the fact that the developer is not asking for what other
developers try to do where they are trying to place as many lots as possible, and here they are presenting a
what he was surprised in terms of size of lot and homes.
Denise Bruno stated that at the meeting, she was talking with the developer with concern, 1) move the
windows 2) They also said that moving the street could work, but they would have to give up a couple of
units. She felt that she has to give up her privacy, if those people decide to put up flood lights, because they
are having parties at night. This is more than having access to a playground. The question was asked if she
would rather have a retaining wall. She said she would prefer a grass area with trees, sidewalk, street and
homes facing. She expressed concerns that multiple families would be moving into those homes and parking
would be an issue. She spoke further of traffic problems in the area.
Commissioner Teglia asked that other options be considered, one might be to consider single-story ranchers
instead of two story homes. Maybe it's possible to leave the intersection where it is, might lose a couple of
homes, be able to cut across and put the road on back as a buffer.
In~~::~Q~~miRi:::1
Commissioner Masuda spoke to a configuration that might work by giving up two homes, and making a cul-
de-sac 30 to 34. He also added that he when he made addition to his house he had a study done as to how
much shade would be caused to his neighbors according to a city ordinance.
Chairman Romero stated that this company has been one of the best in the city, and he expressed his
C:\working\minutes\1 00297. wpd
PC Mtg.l 0/02/97
9 of 12
disappointment that a study session did not occur prior to this point. He added that it may not be a huge
project, but does have a significant impact on adjacent existing neighborhood. He stated that he did not feel
that the information is sufficient for him to make a decision. He cited the request for the Chestnut Estate for
site elevations to determine disruption to neighbors. He added that he felt this was an awkward plan because
only a portion of the site is being used, instead of the whole thing. He stated that he felt that a study session
was necessary and he was not comfortable making a decision now. He would like to see more plans that show
what the actual setbacks are going to be. The homes are extremely large, perhaps they could be smaller,
perhaps two car garages instead of three, or other alternatives that are less intrusive. He does not agree with
moving the street. He asked if this had gone to the Design Review Board. Mr. Carlson stated that the
Design Review Board had favorable comments, they had some design suggestions for several of the buildings,
however, they generally reserve their comments to the buildings and landscaping.
Commissioner Masuda spoke to the fact that the noticing of 300' is minimum requirement, and felt that was
not enough. Mr. Harnish addressed the suggestion by Chairman Romero asking for a study session, and
added that this is already in the public hearing process. He felt that it would be more appropriate if the for
the Commission to continue this to continue this to a date certain, and staff could re-notice, rather than taking
it off calendar which would be rather time consuming.
Commissioner Honan raised a question regarding the issue raised by speaker regarding the rear access code.
The speaker, Ms. Bruno responded that she has been in contact with a land use attorney. She pointed to
other areas in the City that have front and rear access, whether an alley or street, Second Street, and Third
Street. Mr. Harnish explained that where there is double access, that second access is from a lane, not on the
street. There is a public safety problem providing double access, that is not going to be an option. Ms. Bruno
also spoke about a natural spring that runs through the back area which is the reason this hasn't been
developed. Assistant City Attorney Wellman informed the Commission of the option to continue to a date
certain indicating to applicant the need to seeing responses to the concerns addressed tonight. Motion to
continue to October 16 meeting/Barnett - Second - Teglia. Approved by majority voice vote.
7. 3500 Callan Boulevard" Macarae2 Dental Care" Anolicant: Joseoh Ha22artv" Owner
DR-S-045 (B)
Appeal of the decision by the Chief Planner to permit the installation of an illuminated sign, with 12
inch high individual channel letters, on the fascia of the building facing Westborough Boulevard, for
Macaraeg Dental Care. The applicant requests that the Planning Commission permit the installation
of a sign, with 18 inch high individual channel letters, on the building's fascia facing Westborough
Avenue.
Continued to November 6, 1997
ADMINISTRATIVE BUSINESS
7. Items from Staff
8. Request direction from the Commission on filling vacancy for Design Review Board Member.
Previously considered at last meeting.
C:\working\minutes\l 00297. wpd
PC Mtg.l 0/02/97
10 of 12
9. Items from Staff
a. Report back regarding Heather Heights.
Mr. Harnish presented the report. He indicated that he and Chairman Romero had met with the developer
and the landscape architect on site and discussed some design alternatives for the guard rail. Those
alternatives were presented to the Design Review Board and they have made their recommendation. He
explained the alternatives and discussed the subsequent pictures submitted by the developer, and also
discussed the landscaping.
Vice Chairman Romero indicated that Margaret Warren had called him yesterday and informed him that she
would have been here for tonight's meeting, but she had to go to San Diego. He spoke of the resident's
concern regarding the guard rail, and whether the alternative would be attractive versus the rod iron. He
added that when the project was approved, the reason for the rod iron was to preserve the view through and
above the homes, and filling the area with landscaping would obscure the view. Mr. Harnish stated that his
observation has been that most of the homes across the street are elevated.
Mr. Romero stated that he would prefer to allow the opportunity for concerned residents to see it. Mr.
Harnish said it was not necessary to make a decision, however the developer is anxious to get this in this
season. Commissioner Masuda asked about the possibility of allowing the homeowner's association to decide
what they want in terms of addressing the guard rail. Mr. Harnish explained that the developer is required,
through the conditions of approval to put the fence and landscaping in. He is not able to put the precise type
fence originally approved because of the condition of the guard rail. Item was continued to the November
6 meeting.
b. Discussion of Project Review Procedures.
Mr. Harnish stated that due to the late hour, he would like for the Commission to review the report
and contact him if necessary.
9. Items from Commission
· Commissioner Honan reported a trash and rat problem to the rear of of 374 Littlefield. She
added that the gates either are broken, or are left open.
· Vice Chairman Barnett reported a problem with a sign Linden Brew
· Teglia suggested that Code Enforcement come to one of the future meetings.
· Commissioner Sim expressed a concern that in the Westbrough area they are adding two
story green houses without notice to neighbors
10. Items from the Public
None
C:\working\minutes\l 00297. wpd
PC Mtg.l 0/02/97
11 of 12
11. Adjournment to Special Meeting on October 9, 1997
The meeting was adjourned at 12:05 a.m.
l
rf '~
Jim Ha .if-
Secreta to tbe Planning Commission
City of utA San Francisco
r I~ ':2
\ I=""-'
(V "~ 1~;. L(I\ &_~
Marty Romero, Chairman
Planning Commission
City of South San Francisco
MR:JH:is
NEXT MEETING: Planning Commission Special Study Session October 9, 1997
Next Regular Planning Commission Meeting, October 16, 1997, Municipal Services
Building, 33 Arroyo Drive, South San Francisco, CA. Conference Room, 400 Grand
Avenue, South San Francisco, CA.
MR:JH:is
C:\working\minutes\l 00297. wpd
PC Mtg.l 0/02/97
12 of 12