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HomeMy WebLinkAbout04.16.98 Minutes MINUTES CITY OF SOUTH SAN FRANCISCO PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING MUNICIPAL SERVICES BUILDING 33 ARROYO DRIVE April 16, 1998 CALL TO ORDER / PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE ROLL CALL / CHAIRMAN COMMENTS MEMBERS PRESENT: Chairman Barnett, Vice Chairman Teglia, Commissioner Romero, Commissioner Sim, Commissioner Baldocchi, Commissioner Honan, Commissioner Masuda MEMBERS ABSENT: None ALSO PRESENT: Planning Division Jim Harnish, Chief Planner Steve Carlson Susy Kalkin Mike Upston Katherine Wellman Sgt. Mike Massoni Ron Petrocchi Richard Harmon Ray Honan City Attorney Police Dept. Engineering Water Quality Control CALL TO ORDER I PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE The meeting was called to order at 7:30 p.m. ROLL CALL I CHAIRMAN COMMENTS APPROVAL OF MINUTES: February 19, 1998 Regular Meeting, February 26, 1998 Study Session, March 19, 1998 Special Meeting, March 19, 1998 Regular Meeting. Vice Chairman Teglia requested that the Minutes for the February 19, 1998 meeting be F:\File Cabinet\Old PC\working\minutes\1998\041698pc.wpd Page 1 of 12 continued. Motion- Teglia/Second-Barnett to continue to May 7, 1998 meeting. Motion-Teglia/Second Barnett to approve Minutes for the February 26, 1998. Approved by majority voice vote. Motion-Barnett/Second-Baldocchi to approve minutes for March 19, 1998 Special Meeting. Approved by majority voice vote. Chairman Barnett abstained. Motion-Masuda/Second-Baldocchi to approve minutes for March 19, 1998 Regular Meeting. Approved by majority voice vote. Chairman Barnett abstained. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS CONSENT CALENDAR 1. Gateway Technol02Y Center Lot 2B. Hines. Owner. 600, 630 & 650 Gateway Blvd. PM-97-062 and Ne2ative Declaration 97-062 (certified 10/97) Tentative Parcel Map to subdivide a vacant 7.85 acre site into 3 parcels, with reciprocal parking and access easements provided throughout in accordance with SSFMC Title 19. 2. Gateway Lot 9, Hines, Owner. 701. 751 & 801 Gateway, PM-97-063. PUD-97-063 and Negative Declaration 97 -063 (certified 12/97) Tentative Parcel Map and Planned Unit Development Permit to subdivide a vacant 15 acre + site into 3 parcels, two of which will not front on a public street, with reciprocal parking and access easements provided throughout in accordance with SSFMC Title 19. Item pulled from the Consent Calendar by Vice Chairman Teglia. 3. Avis Rent A Car. Owner. James R. McCarron. Applicant, 513 Eccles Avenue, UP- 98-021 and Cate20rical Exemption: Class 1. Section 15301 Use Permit for use generating in excess of 100 daily auto trips in accordance with SSFMC Section 20.32.060. 4. OlymJlian Oil Co.. Owner/applicant, 35 So. Linden Ave. . UP-98-018 and Cate20rical Exemption: Class 2. Section 15302 (b) (Statr is recommending continuance to Mav 7. 1998) Use Permit to allow a remodel of an existing 24 hour gasoline service station including expansion of a mini-mart, a 20 ft. tall pole sign and a total sign area in excess of 300 sq. ft in accordance with SSFMC Chapter 20.30.030 (c) C:\working\minutes\1998\041698pc. wpd Page 2 of 12 Motion-Teglia/Second-Baldocchi to approve Items 1, 3 and 4. Approve by majority voice vote 2. Gateway Lot 9. Hines. Owner. 701. 751 & 801 Gateway. PM-97-063. PUD-97-063 and Nel:ative Declaration 97-063 (certified 12/97) Tentative Parcel Map and Planned Unit Development Permit to subdivide a vacant 15 acre + site into 3 parcels, two of which will not front on a public street, with reciprocal parking and access easements provided throughout in accordance with SSFMC Title 19. Senior Planner Kalkin presented the staff report. Vice Chairman Teglia voiced a concern that the three lots were being subdivided with the intent of selling them off to multiple developers. He asked if those developers had been identified. He was concerned that the piece meal treatment of these properties could lead to a different quality of development, or the possibility that one of the sites may not be developed. He cited problems in the past with reciprocal parking. He added that this particular site is next to the Cellular One building and other Gateway highrises, adding that a single highrise might be a better choice for the property, and felt that the Commission should consider those possibilities before approving it through the consent calendar. Chief Planner Harnish explained that the development plan approved by the Redevelopment Agency is a unified plan that the single property owner would carry out, and any changes to that plan would require going back to the Agency for approval. He added that the current understanding is that all three buildings would be built by the same company (Hines), who might sell the buildings later on. However the reciprocal parking agreement would remain in force. Chairman Barnett asked about the work that is taking place at the location. Staff responded that a building permit has been issued and grading activity is underway. Commissioner Honan asked for clarification on the development as approved by the Redevelopment Agency. Staff responded that the approved project consists of one six story office building, and two four story office buildings on lot one. What is before the Commission is a parcelization of an approved project. Commissioner Romero reiterated his understanding of this application, adding that he sees the development issue as something that is out of the Commission's scope, and the responsibility of the Redevelopment Agency. He added that in his view this is a technical issue to enable the owner to market its product. He thought the Commission should approve the parcel map and let the Redevelopment Agency deal with any subsequent changes to the development proposed by the property owner. Motion-Romero/Second-Masuda to approve. Approved by majority voice vote PUBLIC HEARING - AGENDA lTElVIS 3. Ongpin Noodle House. 75 Camaritas Avenue. Julio Donati. Owner: Ramon Palencia, C:\working\minutes\1998\041698pc. wpd Page 3 of 12 Applicant. UP-96-119-MODl (Continued from Planning Commission Meeting of February 19. 1998. and March 19. 1998 ) Use Permit Modification to allow expansion of an existing restaurant into the adjacent tenant space at 75 Camaritas Avenue within the Retail Commercial (C-l) zone district in accordance with SSFMC 20.22.030. Associate Planner Upston presented the staff report. Chairman Barnett verified with the Assistant City Attorney that action should be taken separately for the extension and approval of the modification. The applicant, Mr. Palencia provided a brief explanation of the project including an oven for roasting meat, an area for storage and staff meeting room. He stated that they will not be adding tables, outside signs, or outside doors. Chairman Barnett closed the public hearing and opened it up to the Commission. Commissioner Masuda asked the applicant why trash is always stacked at the location stating that on a windy day trash was blowing across the video store, adding that it should be placed in the trash enclosure instead. He asked staff about filters or odor catchers. The applicant and staff both responded and offered an explanation. Mr. Masuda added that if the Commission approves the project, a time limit should be set adding that he would hate to run into the same problem as Max's where the smells became a problem and comments made about IIthey shouldn't move in next to a restaurant, or have to put up with the smell". He added that he did not want to have another situation where the police department and fire department have complaints about roasting ducks. Commissioner Honan asked the size of the oven, and how much bigger is it than the one in place now. The applicant provided the dimensions. Through discussions it was determined that this is a new oven. The applicant provided further details about oven and the venting for odors. He stated that several owners of similar ovens have been contacted, and have stated that they have not had complaints of odors. Commissioner Romero asked what types of meat, and what volume would be roasted. I-Ie asked if they would be roasting ducks, and if the applicant has plans to have ducks hanging from racks. He asked if the purpose of the oven is to prepare food for sale in the restaurant or for commercial distribution outside the restaurant or catering. He asked if they would be roasting on a 24 hour basis. The applicant responded that it would be used for roasting beef and pork, that they would not be roasting ducks, the meat would be for the restaurant, not in large volume, and they are not, and do not intend to engage in catering services. Assistant City Attorney suggested to the Chairman that if the Commission has concerns about the odors that might be generated by the new oven, one of the condition could be that the odors be monitored and be reviewed at the end of a six month period, if the intent is to extend the permit for that time, and at the end of the extension if there is a problem with odors, additional C:\working\minutes\1998\041698pc. wpd Page 4 of 12 conditions could be placed to contain the odors. Commissioner Sim asked whether there is a house directly to the rear of the facility, and how close the nearest house is. The applicant responded that the closest residential house is about a block from there. Vice Chairman Teglia asked about the concern previously raised by staff regarding the door into the new office area, and if staff had any concerns with the extended hours, and whether the applicant in compliance with the requirements. Staff responded that they are satisfied with the plans, and have had no complaints, and they appear to be in compliance, with the exception of the trash, which will be monitored. Motion- Teglia/Second-Sim to approve for an additional six months. Approved by majority voice vote. Motion-Teglia/Second-Masuda to approve the permit modification with additional review of garbage conditions and any possible odor and smoke emissions in six months. Approved by majority voice vote. 4. Park. Shuttle & Fly. 1070 Associates. Applicant: Stephen Belomy. Owner. 1080 San Mateo Avenue. UP-97 -090 and ND 97-090 Use Permit to allow construction of a 24 hour park and fly lot on a 5.2 + acre site within an industrial (M-l) zoning district in accordance with SSFMC Chapter 20.30.030 (c), and 20.30.040 (a). Sr. Planner Carlson presented the staff report. The applicant, Mr. Steve Belomy, with 1070 Associates, and owner of property at 1080 San Mateo Avenue, provided the Commission with his background experience, and introduced the various members of his team. He spoke of the project's benefits including the visual improvement to the area, and fiscal benefits to the City. He introduced his architect, Mr. Kevin Chan, who presented the architectural design, stating that they have taken measures to remediate the issues that were raised: the building entry has been relocated to the north side and ticket machines pushed back 50 feet, and the City's landscape recommendations will be adhered to. He presented a new sign. Chairman Barnett asked if this sign has gone through the Design Review Board. Mr. Carlson stated that this is the first time the applicant is presenting the sign. Commissioner Sim asked if any exterior lighting fixture would be mounted to the wall, and asked about the overall detail of illumination. Commissioner Romero asked about the original plan had entry on the right hand side, now it's been shifted to the left side. He asked if they would be transporting the customers to the airport, and asked where the pick up and drop off location would be. Mr. Belomy added that all of the changes made have been at the request of the various departments of the City or City of San Bruno, He introduced Nick Carter of Five Star Parking who responded to circulation, traffic, C:\working\minutes\1998\041698pc. wpd Page 5 of 12 shuttle buses, hours of operation and other similar issues. There was some discussion on whether the new sign presented is at the request of staff. Staff recommended that if the sign became an issue, it could be sent back to staff or the Design Review Board for further consideration. M.r. Carter described the operations of the shuttle and responded to other questions raised by the Commission. Commissioner Romero raised a question about bathroom facilities for the public. Staff and the applicant responded with possible solutions to his concern. Commissioner Honan asked if this was going to work like Anza in Burlingame, if valet service would be available, and how often the shuttles would run. Mr. David Ziegel representing the owners of 1071 to 1075 San Mateo Avenue spoke of the lack of parking in the area, and requested assurance that employees park on site. The applicant stated that they would require their employees to park on site. Commissioner Masuda asked the number of employees. The applicant's representative responded approximately six per shift. Commissioner Honan asked how many parking places will there be and how many shuttles will be parked while not in service. The applicant responded. Chairman Barnett closed the public hearing and opened the matter up for Commission discussion. Commissioner Honan stated she was still confused about the sign. The applicant explained that when the first sign was done, they didn't have their logo and did not know what size was permitted. Mr. Carlson pointed out that it was a question of the graphics. Either staff could work with them, or they could take it back to the Design Review. Commissioner Romero asked about the width of the parking stalls. Staff stated they were all 8.5 feet wide. Chairman Barnett stated that he thought this was a very professional presentation and he feels that the project fits well in the area, and he liked the landscaping. He added that the issue of the sign was a technicality, but doesn't have a problem with it. Vice Chairman Teglia stated that he felt the project has merit and saw no reason for not making a motion for the project with the stipulation that the Airport parking sign be reviewed, and that the sign on the facade of the canopy be looked at with an aesthetic eye. Motion-Teglia/Second-Barnett to approve with the changes that staff has recommended, with the provisions that all employees park on site, and public bathrooms be reviewed, and that the signage be reviewed. The applicant asked for a clarification on who would needs to review the public restroom and the signage issue. C:\working\minutes\1998\041698pc. wpd Page 6 of 12 Chairman Barnett called for a recess at 8: 55 p.m. The meeting was called to order at 9:00 p.m. 5. EI Rancho Highlands, Standard Building Company. 753 Del Monte Avenue. SA-97- 037/REVl New Tentative Subdivison Map allowing sixty-three (63) lots for single family residences, situated at 753 Del Monte Avenue (APN 010-231-010), in a Single Family Residential (R- I-E) Zoning District, in accordance with SSFMC Chapters 19.40 and 20.85. Sr. Planner Carlson presented the staff report. Mr. Bob Kent representing the applicant presented a brief report of the revised plans. Chairman Barnett closed public hearing. Mr. Kent representing the applicant provided the Commission with a handout providing the request and responded to questions and issues raised by Mr. Romero: Dirt hauling, dust control, contact for dust control (Bob Mantegani). Vice Chairman Teglia echoed the request for dust control measures. Commissioner Masuda asked about the trees that are being removed and whether they will be replaced with appropriate trees for the area. Mr. Kent stated that some of the trees will be removed, and they will plant with recommended trees. He added that they have had approximately five phone calls from neighbors requesting that the trees be removed. They will remove only the trees that are not healthy, he added that not every plan will be three car garage, a few lots will have two car garages. Vice Chairman Teglia made a suggestion that considering the concerns of the residents on Romney, that homes on lots 9 - 15 might be considered for the smaller homes. Commissioner Romero asked for clarification that all front and rear yard setbacks will be maintained. The applicant responded that all front, rear and side yard setbacks either meet or exceed the requirements. Commissioner Honan requested that the following go on record: One sentence in here that states uThe school district representative indicates that the district is able to serve the anticipated school age population generated by the new residences." She added that she would like to know how they figure that out, adding that they have asked this before and have not had answers. With the number of homes going in. She wants to be sure that the schools can accommodate the children and properly educate them. Mr. Harnish responded that staff does not have a lot of latitude to challenge the information provided by the School District. Commissioner Honan stated that she would like the issue brought before the Council before they approve it. Commissioner Baldocchi alluded to an apparent inconsistency with the information distributed the previous evening (General Plan). Mr. Barnett responded that the information was not based C:\working\minutes\1998\041698pc. wpd Page 7 of 12 on any data. Mr. Harnish stated that the information presented the previous evening is not an attempt to provide specific projections, but rather something that is being used as a broad based planning tool. Vice Chairman Teglia indicated that he is not confident with the decisions made by the school district, but added that it is not within the Commission's purview and, suggested sending a strong statement of concern to Council. Commissioner Sim thanked the developer for providing the Commission with cross section material adding that it shows that they are sensitive about the edges, that none of the areas have increased in height, they have done a lot more cut. He added that he is in support of the project. Motion-Romero/Second- Teglia. Recommend approval to forward to City Council by majority voice vote. 6. Clarion Inn. Jay Singh. Prime Lodging Inc.. Applicant: Ken G. Funk. Owner. 264 South Airport Blvd. . UP-97-089. PUD-97-089 and ND97-089 Use Permit and Planned Unit Development application to allow construction of a 4-story, 101 room airport oriented hotel which will generate in excess of 100 average daily vehicle trips (ADT), with requested exceptions to standard floor area ratio (FAR) and front yard setback requirements in accordance with SSFMC Chapter 20.24.030 (c), 20.24.050,20.84 & E of 101 Policy LU-46. Sr. Planner Kalkin presented the staff report. 1.l!i.19.1!!!p!f!!ffiip!!!!!I Mr. Sharad Lal, project architect, presented a report on the project. He described the proposed project as a high quality lodging facility, and added that the benefits of the project would certainly outweigh any requested exceptions. He introduced Mr. Tronoff, the engineer for the offsite improvements, and John Wilson, the traffic engineer. Mr. Russ Hampton, owner of the Shell station at 248 So. Airport Boulevard, north of the proposed project noted he had concerns about the proposed changes to the median which would impact his property. However, he noted he had just spoken with the traffic engineer and City Staff and is confident that the issue can be worked out. He asked about the height of the landscaping on the westerly boundary against the freeway, concerned that it might obstruct the visibility of his facility from the freeway. He added that he is not in opposition to the project, but spoke of the zero setback that the adjacent Vagabond Inn has, north of his property, which obstructs the visibility of his facility. Chairman Barnett closed the public hearing and opened the matter up to the Commission for discussion. Commissioner Masuda expressed a concern with left turn northbound on South Airport Boulevard into the hotel, adding there should be a "No U-Turn" sign there, noting that people heading northbound 1 0 1 would use the lane to make a U-Turn to get on the freeway. C:\working\minutes\1998\041698pc. wpd Page 8 of 12 Vice Chairman Teglia stated that he had a number of concerns. He feels that too many hotels are being shoe- horned into a small area. He expressed a concern with the below-grade parking garage since the area is prone to flooding. Mr. Tronoff responded that the design of the grading in the parking lot is such that you rise before going into the parking area which creates a physical barrier to prevent flooding from occurring in the garage. He added that because of the design, there will be pumps in the garage to remove water from the ramp that flows toward the garage. He noted further that the project will divert water that now goes onto South Airport Boulevard into the storm drain. Vice Chairman Teglia asked if consideration had been given to siting the hotel further to the west and angling it toward the freeway to maximize the front setback. The architect pointed out the difficulties they encountered looking at the various alternatives. Vice Chairman Teglia asked for clarification on the rear setback. The architect respond that it is 5 feet on the left side and 4 to 5 feet on the other side. Vice Chairman Teglia questioned whether there were benefits to having a zero setback at the rear since it abuts State of California right-of-way which will be landscaped. The architect responded that it could be done. Vice Chairman Teglia asked about the Police Department Requirements: Page 5 Section C-I-E, that underground parking does not appear to meet minimum requirements. Staff responded that the current plans meet minimum parking dimensions. Commissioner Romero asked about the percentage of landscape, and whether it included the State of California right-of-way which will be maintained by the property owner. Staff responded that 14.4% of the site is to be landscaped which does not include the State of California right-of-way. Commissioner Romero stated that he resented the concern raised by CalTrans that the proposed crosswalk would increase traffic queues on South Airport Boulevard, adding that public safety comes first. Commissioner Sim asked the architect to respond to the tree height issue raised earlier. The architect responded that the trees on west side will be eucalyptus trees which at maturity could go from 25 to 30 feet. Vice Chairman Teglia asked if the hotel would have dining or banquet facilities. The architect responded that they would only provide breakfast for guests and would have a small boardroom. Commissioner Sim was complimentary of architecture, adding that a building fronting onto South Airport Boulevard makes more sense placing surface parking to the rear with landscaping. Vice Chairman Teglia noted that he feels in general this is a good plan. However, since it is a major project, he would like to explore the possibility of trying to maximize the front setback while taking into account the security issues raised by the applicant. Commissioner Masuda agreed on maximizing the setback . The architect stated that he can probably move it back about 2 -3 feet. Commissioner Romero agreed that it is a good plan and it is a good location for the business but he would like to see the front setback increased. C:\working\minutes\1998\041698pc. wpd Page 9 of 12 Vice Chairman Teglia stated that he would like to see the item continued to resolve the issues raised by the Commission. There was general consensus that the Commission would like to have the architect explore shifting the structure back toward the freeway to capture additional front yard setback. Motion- Teglia/Second-Masuda to continue to May 7, 1998 meeting. Approved by majority voice vote. ADMINISTRATIVE BUSINESS 7. Items from Staff None 8. Items from Commission Commissioner Honan 1) Attendance for 1st quarter, both she and Commissioner Masuda were late, but should that reflect as an absence. Mr. Harnish responded that it shouldn't, and he would see that the report be corrected. 2) Who had canceled the meeting two weeks ago, and should it have been brought before the Commission? Chairman Barnett indicated that he spoke with Mr. Harnish and they agreed that in the future they will discuss canceling a meeting at prior meeting. 3) Sidewalk on Hazelwood in the vicinity of Smart and Final, trees were cut down and stumps were left which are dangerous. Commissioner Romero stated that he was directing his comments to Mr. Harnish since he is ultimately responsible for staff. He spoke of the importance of mutual respect. He stated that he gets the feeling that the Commission is being considered as an afterthought and the duties and responsibilities of the Commissioners may not be given the degree of consideration to which they are entitled. He cited the example of the previous night where they received the information the night before the meeting, which was to be a televised meeting with the City Council, and they had very little time to prepare because of an apparent oversight and because nobody knew who was responsible for delivering the materials. He added that they are not at City Hall and can't be in touch with the City Clerk. The arrangement should have been made at Mr. Harnish's direction to insure that they receive the information with ample time to prepare for the meeting. He added that he does not like to look bad before Council or the public, fumbling in an effort to make prudent comments on an important issue. He added that he thinks it's very important that staff try to understand that most of the Commissioners are long term members of the community and want to be perceived as doing a job that is important and are fully informed about the issue that is being discussed. He asked that more consideration be given to make sure the Commission is better informed, with a better line of communication with the members of staff under Mr. Harnish, and that staff be cognizant of C:\working\minutes\1998\041698pc. wpd Page 10 of 12 the fact that the Commission needs to be kept aware of certain things and receive the information needed to do their job. He added that they don't want to micro manage the department, but it is important that the Commission be considered as part of the team who works together. Mr. Harnish responded that staff has no intention of treating the Planning Commission as a second class body, or not paying attention to their needs. Whatever has happened has not been intentional. He asked if there are other examples beyond last night's that lead him to believe staff is not being as responsive as they should. Commissioner Romero stated that it's more of a feeling, stating that there have been incidents in the past which he chose not to get into. Mr. Harnish apologized for the materials for last night meeting not having been delivered in time. He stated that to remedy that in the future, staff would take responsibility for delivering material for joint sessions. Commissioner Masuda stated that he felt that the general plan issues discussed at the joint meeting with Council should have gone to the Council first, have them give their input, and then a study session should have been scheduled, so the Commission knew how Council felt. Vice Chairman Teglia thought there should have been something closer to reality instead of things being "pie-in the sky". Mr. Harnish responded that a general plan study session is a time to speculate and look into the future, recognizing that much will be eliminated before adopting the plan. Assistant City Attorney Wellman noted that the General Plan was not on the agenda and cautioned against further discussion. Commissioner Masuda reported a concern about weeds along Chestnut Avenue on properties on either side of Ron Price V olkswagon. Chairman Barnett advised the Commission of the availability of a booklet on Conflict of Interest which will be available through the Planning Division library. Motion-Barnett/Second- Masuda to adjourn The meeting was adjourned at 10:44 p.m. 4. Items from the Public None ~~/~ Christopher Barnett, Chairman Planning Commission City of South San Francisco ------- C:\working\minutes\1998\041698pc. wpd Page 11 of 12 JH:CB:is NEXT MEETING: Regular Meeting, May 7, 1998, Municipal Services Building, 33 Arroyo Drive, South San Francisco, CA.99 C:\working\minutes\1998\041698pc. wpd Page 12 of 12