HomeMy WebLinkAbout11.19.98 Minutes
CITY OF SOUTH SAN FRANCISCO
REGULAR PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING
MINUTES
MUNICIPAL SERVICES BUILDING
33 ARROYO DRIVE
November 19, 1998
CALL TO ORDER / PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
The meeting was called to order at 7:35p.m.
ROLL CALL / CHAIRMAN COMMENTS
MEMBERS PRESENT:
Chairman Barnett, Vice Chairman Teglia, Commissioner Masuda,
Commissioner Romero, Commissioner Baldocchi, Commissioner
Honan, Commissioner Sim
MEMBERS ABSENT:
None
ALSO PRESENT:
Planning Di vision:
Marty Van Duyn
Jim Harnish
Steve Carlson
Adam Lindgren
Cyrus Kianpour
Richard Harmon
S gt. Massoni
City Attorney:
Engineering:
Police Dept.:
AGENDA REVIEW
APPROVAL OF MINUTES: None
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS
CONSENT CALENDAR
1. Gateway Lots 1 and 9~ HMS Gateway Office~ L.P.~ Owner/ Applicant~ 601 B 951
Gateway Boulevard~ Case Nos. PM-98-082~ PUD-98-082~ Gateway Redevelopment EIR
(previously certified)
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Parcel Map to resubdivide two existing lots totaling 39.14 acres into 6 new commercial lots
with reciprocal access easements throughout; Planned Unit Development to allow creation
of lots which do not abut a dedicated public street. (Staff recommends continuance to
December 17, 1998).
Motion-Teglia/Second-Honan to continue to December 17, 1998. Approved by unanimous
voice vote.
PUBLIC HEARING AGENDA ITEMS
2. Oyster Point Kin2 V enture~ Owner: City of South San Francisco~ Oyster Point
Boulevard & Marina Way~ Applicant: Kin2 Ventures~ Case Nos. MND 96-079~ GPA
96-079~ PM 96-079 and PP 96-079
General Plan Amendment to expand the land use designations on selected sites designated
for public park uses, allowing a hotel in an area designated Open Space and related text
amendments, Zoning Amendment allowing a hotel in an area designated Open Space and
related text changes and changing the use diagram, Tentative Parcel Map to reconfigure
property boundaries between several parcels, and a Precise Plan for phased development
comprised of office, hotel and restaurant facilities, situated on a site bounded by Oyster Point
Boulevard and Marina Way. (Staffrecommends continuance to December 17, 1998).
Motion-Sim/Second-Teglia to continue to December 17, 1998. Approved by unanimous
voice vote.
3. Opus Center Sierra Point Master Plan~ O~vner: Opus West Corporation~ Applicant:
Randy~ Ackerman~ Southerly Terminus of Sierra Point Boulevard~ Case Nos. MND 98-
044~ PM 98-044 and PUD 98-044
Planned Unit Development to allow a Master Plan for a new commercial campus comprised
of 440,000 square feet of office and research and development, and a 152 room hotel, with
shared parking, private streets, phased development, 24 hour operations and generating in
excess of 100 average daily vehicle trip ends, and a Tentative Parcel Map allowing a four lot
subdivision and common improvements, situated on a vacant 26 acre site bounded on the
west by U.S. Highway 101 and Caltrain, on the east and south by San Francisco Bay and on
the north by Shoreline Court (APN 015-010-020), situated in a Planned Commercial Zoning
District (P-C. (Continuedfrom November 5, 1998 Meeting).
Senior Planner Carlson presented the staff report and read the following material into the
record noting that the utility section of the Mitigation Negative Declaration, Page 96, third
paragraph needs to be corrected to reflect that the draft agreement is being prepared. He
noted that staff has prepared a memo that identifies certain issues, which he read into the
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record:
1. The cumulative traffic impacts identified in the Mitigated Negative Declaration
and in the "Responses to Comments and Final Revisions to the Mitigated
Negative Declaration 98-044", page 10, are not siznificant.
2. The mitigation measures for cumulative traffic impacts listed in "Responses to
Comments and Final Revisions to the Mitigated Negative Declaration 98-044",
page 10, are redrafted to add the following paragraph modifying the list of traffic
improvements:
The owner Shall pay a portion of the total cost of the following improvements
which portion shall be proportional to the number of vehicle trips generated by the
Opus Center Sierra Point situated in the City of South San Francisco divided by
the total number of vehicle trips over the improvements. The owner in
cooperation with the City of Brisbane and the City of South San Francisco shall
develop a schedule for the construction of the traffic improvements. The
construction schedule shall be closely tied to the projected vehicle traffic
associated with each development phase. The schedule shall include a provision
for traffic counts to be taken to determine, if the improvements are warranted on
an accelerated schedule. The traffic construction schedule and program shall be
subject to the approval of the City of South San Francisco's Chief Planner and
Ci ty Engineer.
a. A traffic signal, funded by the applicant, shall be installed at the Sierra
Point Parkway/Shoreline Court-Marina Boulevard intersection.
b. A traffic signal, funded by the applicant, shall be installed at Sierra Point
Parkway/U.S. 101 Northbound.
c. A traffic signal, funded by the applicant, shall be installed at Sierra Point
Parkway/Lagoon Way.
d. Add a second northbound through lane at the Sierra Point Parkway/Lagoon
Way intersection.
e. Re-stripe the westbound approach of the Sierra Point Parkway/U.S. 101
Ramps intersection to include a through lane and a shared through right-
turn lane.
f. Add a second northbound left-turn lane, a second southbound right-turn
lane, and add a second eastbound left-turn lane at the Sierra Point
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Parkway/Shoreline Court-Marina Boulevard intersection. The northbound
and southbound approaches would be controlled by split phasing with
these improvements, and eastbound right-turn lane should be maintained
as a "free" movement.
3. Planning Division Condition #10 should be deleted since it is substantially the
same as the redrafted mitigation measure above.
He referenced two letters that were received from the City of Brisbane, which indicate that they are
developing a sewer service agreement. He noted that since the last meeting, the City of Brisbane
also conferred that the traffic improvements for this project included in the agreement between the
two jurisdictions, is not generating all of the traffic improvements, but rather is a cumulative impact
that is not significant.
Assistant City Attorney Lindgren noted that the letter from the Public Works Director of the City
of Brisbane refers incorrectly to a Development Agreement adding that he has spoken with
Brisbane's City Attorney, which prompted the letter stating that they will be preparing an agreement.
Mr. Carlson noted that there are a significant number of mitigation measures, and a number of other
agencies that will be reviewing the project and noted that BCDC had some concerns about the view
analysis, which have been adequately responded to by staff. He added that the applicant may wish
to include additional language to the resolution.
Assistant City Attorney Lindgren noted that Commissioner Baldocchi would be stepping down
since she had not been present for the first portion of the hearing.
Mr. Randy Ackerman noted that they had provided a pretty lengthy presentation the last time, and
he did not have much to add. He noted that he has conversed with Mr. Carlson regarding the issues
raised on the Negative Declaration, and he felt comfortable that he understood them. With reference
to the "will serve" letter about the sanitary sewer service, he requested that one of the conditions of
approval include language that approval from both City Councils is necessary before obtaining a
building permit.
Chairman Barnett asked if there was anyone in the audience who wished to speak, being none, he
closed the public hearing and invited comments from the Commission.
Vice Chairman Teglia indicated that overall he thought this was a fine project, noting that he had
one concern which he raised the last time, which was the concern expressed by the Design Review
Board with reference to the encroachment into the 100' shoreline setback for parking. He noted that
one of the recommendations made by the Design Review Board was a possible parking structure,
which has been determined not to be feasible. He asked if it would be possible to make a slight
adjustment to the point that bows out which reduces the band significantly. He added that this was
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only a suggestion and not a major concern.
Chairman Barnett asked staff if the changes requested by the Vice Chair would impact the parking
ratio.
Commissioner Romero indicated he could not support the position recommended by the Vice
Chair, although he is a strong advocate for protecting the setback. He noted that the unique design
of the buildings add significantly to either side of the parking lot, which more than compensates for
the encroachment into the setback. He added that if any of the Commissioners feel strong enough
that they want to advocate the change, the entire Commission should be polled. He noted that he
would not support the action, since he likes the project, which in his opinion is well designed, adding
that they have done an excellent job of trying to preserve even more than is necessary.
Vice Chairman Teglia indicated that he was not strongly advocating the change adding
Commissioner Romero made a good point, with which he agreed. He stated that he also thought it
was a good project.
Commissioner Masuda noted that he agreed with Commissioner Romero noting that eliminating
the area would cause a loss to public parking on both sides.
Chairman Barnett noted that he had also considered raising the same request as the Vice Chair and
was interested in hearing from the developer on the prospects of addressing the issue.
Commissioner Sim stated that there might be a way to compromise, without taking away parking,
such as a pedestrian friendly path as recommended by the Design Review Board. He pointed to a
possibility of expanding it from the four-story building to the bay front.
Mr. Ackerman responded that they have attempted to encroach into the BCDC band as little as
possible, and have avoided parking garages for the reasons stated at their last session. He noted that
based on the size of the buildings that they consider marketable, they came up with the footprints as
presented. He stated that their focus has been to get people to the Bay, adding that there is a path
from the back building that includes a shoreline connecting to the sidewalks on the site. He added
that the landscaping within the rest of the site makes up for the pavement, and noted that they will
continue to refine the site plan, looking at parking ratios since they would prefer having landscape
rather than parking.
Chairman Barnett noted that he felt it was a great project and he did not want to get stuck on a
minor point.
Vice Chairman Teglia noted that he appreciated the applicant's comments, and asked that at their
discretion they consider adding more green in the area of the walkway, noting that he wanted to be
clear that they don't take the encroachment lightly.
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Motion-Teglia/Second-Masuda. Senior Planner Carlson requested that the motion include the revised
Mitigation Negative Declaration language as read into the record, as well as noting that Condition
number 10 should be struck, and replaced by with a condition stating "The final building inspection
for any of the four buildings comprising the project shall not occur until the Sewer Service
Agreement between the City of South San Francisco and City of Brisbane has been adopted by both
City Councils".
Motion was amended to include staff's recommendations.
Approved by majority voice vote. Commissioner Baldocchi did not Paliicipate.
4. Gallo Office and R&D~ Owner: Gallo Glass Company~ Applicant: James Luce~ 420
Forbes Boulevard~ Case Nos. MND 98-079 and UP 98-079
Use Permit allowing a 47,722 square foot building for office, research and development uses,
uses generating more than 100 average daily vehicle trips, 24 hour operation, and a small
enclosed outside service yard, situated at 420 Forbes Boulevard, a vacant parcel (APN 015-
050-710), and allowing a portion of the site to be continued to be utilized as an aisleway for
the beverage distribution facility situated on an abutting site at 440 Forbes Bouleval"d, in the
Planned Industrial Zone District (P-I).
Sr. Planner Carlson presented the staff report.
Mr. Don Yancy the architect representing the applicant noted that they have read and agree with the
conditions. He detailed the revisions made to the plans, which he indicated incorporate the
recommendations made by the Design Review Board.
Chairman Barnett asked if there was anyone in the audience who would like to speak. There being
none, he invited comments from the Commission.
Commissioner Romero asked if he was correct in assuming that both the Montegrano and this were
under the same ownership, and would become one site.
Mr. Carlson responded that there would be a separation between the two.
Commissioner Romero expressed a concern with inadequate parking on the Montegrano site and
asked if a joint or shared parking agreement could be arranged for the two sites at this time to
alleviate the problem, since they share ownership and this site appears to have excessive parking
Chairman Barnett commented that he did not feel that a common owner with two distinct uses
should be grounds for requesting that type of arrangement.
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Vice Chairman Teglia stated that he shares the same concerns that Commissioner Romero raised
adding that this could be accomplished by merging the lots and he felt that it was appropriate to
consider improving the current situation at this time.
Mr. Yancy explained that the two do not share the same owner, noting that the Montegrano site is
owned by United States Intermodal Service, and Gallo Glass Company is the owner of this parcel.
Commissioner Masuda noted that he would not like to see the parking merged.
Mr. Carlson noted that if parking with Montegrano is a concern, staff would prefer to bring that to
the Commission separately since the Commission has the authority to review a use permit.
Chairman Barnett stated that he agreed that the way to address the situation with Montegrano
would be to follow what Mr. Carlson had suggested.
Commissioner Romero noted that he felt this was a good opportunity to address the problem since
there was a vested interest of ownership involved in this application. He commented that when the
Montegrano application was approved, he had not envisioned the trucks parking alongside the
property line. He suggested that parking be placed along both sides of the strip on the left-hand
portion of the project to allow more automobile parking.
Mr. Carlson noted that the application for Montegrano had provided a staging diagram which
presented accurate information on how they would be parking the delivery trucks by staging them
in the manner in which they are doing. He noted that the problems reported have been with passenger
vehicles, which may caused by the number of employees being underestimated.
Chariman Barnett noted that it was difficult to analyze the effects of the two sites, since the only
information they have is for this site. He asked staff if they were aware of the parking problem at
Montegrano's.
Mr. Carlson noted that it has come up from time to time, and staff has worked with them to make
sure measures were taken to alleviate the problems.
Commissioner Romero noted that he was bringing this up as a suggestion and not trying to impose
anything on this applicant, but rather make it part of the ownership responsibility to provide
sufficient parking for the tenants.
Chairman Barnett asked Commissioner Romero if he was still inclined to seek that the parking for
the Montegrano site be considered at this time.
Commissioner Romero requested that it be left to a consensus of the rest of the Commission.
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Chairman Barnett stated that in his opinion there were two options: 1) Forget about the
Montegrano issue and deal with on a separate venue, or 2) continue this until sufficient information
is available for both parcels.
Commissioner Masuda stated that Montegrano issue should not be coming up at this time, and he
did not think it be delayed, noting that he did not see a problem with the project.
Commissioner Romero agreed, adding that he preferred to have staff deal with it appropriately.
Vice Chairman Teglia suggested the applicant consider a shared driveway which would extend the
length of the landscaping on the frontage, where both sites could enter and exit on the Montegrano
boundary.
Commissioner Masuda cautioned that opening up the driveway would cause a problem with trucks
parking.
Mr. Yancy stated that the access from Forbes was addressed during the early schematic design of
the project, adding that the site plan was designed to deal with the openings as they exist since they
have to satisfy the tenant. He noted that he Fire Marshal has reviewed the site plan for fire fighting
and has given his approval. He stated that they would not be interested in sharing a driveway.
Vice Chairman Teglia asked staff if the intersection of GrandIForbes and Eccles, has been analyzed
for safe maneuverability.
Motion-Romero/Second-Teglia. Approved by unanimous voice vote.
Chairman Barnett noted that he would be abstaining from item #5, Genentech and Vice Chairman
Teglia would serve as Chairman Pro Tern.
Chairman Barnett called a recess at 8:35 p.m.
The meeting reconvened at 8:50 p.m.
5. Genentech~ Buildin2 26~ Applicant: Genentech~ Inc.~ Case Nos. UP-98-092~ Ne2ative
Declaration ND-98-092
Use Permit and Negative Declaration to allow construction of a new four story office
building comprising a total of 112,718 square feet, located at 1526 Grandview Drive
(adjacent to existing buildings 24 and 25) in the Genentech Research and Development
Overlay District.
Consulting Planner Lappen presented the staff report.
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Chairman Pro Tem Teglia asked whether building 55 is a temporary facility.
Mr. Peter Yee responded that building 55 was intended to be only a temporary facility for a
maximum of five years. He noted that their plan is take the facility down when building 26 is ready
to be occupied. He noted that the change to the current plans is in response to the comments from
the Design Review Board.
Chairman Pro Tem Teglia asked if there was anyone in the audience who would like to speak.
There being none he invited comments from the Commission.
Commissioner Masuda asked if consideration had been given to placing an elevated walkway
instead of a traffic signal.
Mr. Yee noted that they had not looked at the prospect of a walkway, adding that they could look
at it, however he felt that it would be an expensive proposition, and engineering would have some
concerns about the height and truck clearances.
Motion-Sim/Second-Honan. Chairman Pro Tern asked if the Commission wanted to address the
issue of limiting the temporary site for building 55.
Mr. Yee responded that the building is being leased for a period of 3 to 5 years, which if continued
would become very expensive, and for that reason will continue only for a limited time.
The application was approved by the following voice vote:
AYES:
Chairman Pro Tern Teglia, Commissioner Romero, Commissioner Sim,
Commissioner Baldocchi, Commissioner Honan, Commissioner Masuda
None
Chairman Barnett
None
NOES:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT:
Chairman Barnett returned to the podium.
6. South San Francisco Scaven2er Company ~ Materials Recovery Facility and Transfer
Station~ East Jamie Court~ Case Nos. GP-98-013~ UP-98-013~ ZA-98-013 and EIR-98-
013
Public hearing on the draft South San Francisco Scavenger Company Materials Recovery
Facility and Transfer Station Environmental Impact Report (EIR).
Consulting Planner Lappen presented the Staff Report
End of Tape 1
Mr. Paul Miller, Project Director for Environmental Science Associates, provided a description
of the proposed materials recovery facility and transfer station, which he noted would handle an
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average of 1,000 tons per day at the peak, and actual peak tonnage through the facility would be
1250 tons.
He noted that the facility would involve a change in the land use and zoning designation and
would be located in the area north of the Airport with the San Francisco Bay on both east and
south of the facility. He added that the facility is approximately a 10 acre site which is currently
vacant and has historically been used as handling area for fill materials.
He explained that the facility would be receiving and processing waste materials for the South
San Francisco Scavenger Company service area. He noted that several types of vehicles would
be coming onto the site. He continued that facility would be used for separating curbside
recyclable materials and recovery of recyclable materials from the commercial waste streams in
preparation for marketing. He also noted that the facility would also be processing yard debris in
preparation for sale or shipping for further composting, and the residual garbage would be
shipped or otherwise processed to a landfill in long haul transfer trucks. He also stated that the
facility includes an international cooker, which is a sterilizer for waste from international air
flights, which is currently performed at the Blue Line Transfer site.
He added that the facility would include a household hazardous waste collection facility which
primarily involves latex paints, batteries, oils, and antifreeze and will be operated in cooperation
with the San Mateo County. He noted that vehicle maintenance as well as fleet parking and
administrative offices would also be housed at the facility.
He noted that the project analyzed in the Draft EIR looked at the construction phase as well as
the operational phases of the project, and the effects of the change in land and zoning use. He
noted that the document assumes that the facility will be built and fully operational in 1999 and
would replace the Blue Line Transfer Station as well as the South San Francisco Scavenger
Company South Linden facility.
He noted that the cumulative analysis for impacts of the project, which is required by CEQA, was
set for 2003. He stated that there was an initial "Notice of Preparation" study prepared some
months ago which focused on ten issues: planning, aesthetics, public service and utilities, public
health and safety, traffic and transportation, air quality, noise, geology and seismicity, hydrology
and water quality, and biological resources, which are fully discussed in the Draft EIR.
He noted that the Draft EIR found that many of the impacts of the project can be mitigated to a
less than significant level, however there were impacts that were identified as significant,
unavoidable environmental effects of the project:
. Land use and planning - the cumulative changes that would result from the change in land use
designation would change the character as envisioned in the specific area or in the East of
101 Plan
· Traffic and transportation safety - the EIR looked at two haul routes that would be primarily
used for the facility which was narrowed down as the best of five routes which were initially
looked at.
. Air quality - he noted that the project by nature of a transfer facility like this where waste
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will be traveling fairly long distance, the Bay Area Air Quality Management District requires
that those impacts be looked at, and almost by definition 1,000 ton facility will end up with
significant unavoidable impacts in the areas of excess nitrogen oxide and reactive organic
gases which are both precursors to ozone, and the Air Quality District does not have
permitting authority over emissions exceeding 80 pounds per day which are considered very
sensitive and must be reported.
. Air quality, cumulative submissions - also become significant with additional traffic growth.
. Noise- which are impacts on users at the Bay Trail as identified by the East of 101 Plan
which identified a level of 60 decibels as being a goal for recreation and open space areas,
and there will be areas in this facility where it will exceed 60 decibels on the Bay trail.
He presented slides for visual effects of some of the sensitive areas and how they fit in with the
facility as well as others depicting the appearance of the facility.
He noted that there were several impacts in the project such as odors that could be mitigated by
careful management. He stated that the proposed mitigation measures for odors provide that the
waste will be stored no more than 48 hours on site, as required by State regulations for these
facilities. Additional measures include regular cleaning of the facility, and the use of misting
systems with deodorizers, as well as a requirement that the operator to develop an odor
management protocol for any future odor complaints which would become more progressive.
He he noted that alternatives to the project are required by CEQA and provided a description of
the alternatives:
. No project alternative - assumes that the Scavengers will continue to operate the Blue Line
Transfer Station at the South Linden facility and other means of achieving the 50% waste
reduction would be required, and it assumes no change in the land use.
. The offsite alternative - taken from another study, and reviewed by ESA which involved an
innovative design for the southeast corner of Shaw Road/San Mateo site which places all the
uses on a seven acre piece of property. He noted that this is one of the alternatives that was
reviewed in the DSEIR, and identified as the environmentally preferable of the alternatives.
. Design alternative for layout - considered elements of the East of 101 ideas which would
handle the same amount of waste in an area with concepts of an industrial campus that groups
some of the activities, and flip flops where the vehicle maintenance is on the west side of the
facility and the household hazardous waste facility is placed in area that was considered safer
for cueing and drop off.
He noted that these are described in the Draft EIR and some of the concepts of the design
alternatives identified have already been incorporated by the applicants.
. Reduced project alternative - that would handle about % of the total tonnage envisioned by
the project consisting of an industrial campus layout where things are combined or placed in
different areas, with the wood waste having been moved out of the major processing building
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which reduces the size of the building; and the vehicle maintenance building has been
moved to the east side of the property. The 100' buffer area has nlore closely been
maintained as required by the BCDC.
He outlined the environmental review process schedule: The Draft was released October 30, the
written comments period will end December 14, Final EIR preparation will begin after the
comment period ends, in December - January time period, and depending on how long it takes to
complete the Final EIR, the certification of the EIR would occur in the winter of 1999.
Commissioner Romero asked if the mitigated alternative was going to be brought forward as the
preferred alternative.
Mr. Miller responded that he did not think so, noting that the environmentally superior
alternative within CEQA is not necessarily rated against the actual project. However, you are
required to identify the superior alternative, and if that is the no project alternative, you have to
select another alternative from the remaining alternatives. He noted that in most cases it is not the
preferred project, particularly if it is the off site project.
Mr. Harnish asked Commissioner Romero if he was referring to the staff's recommendation.
He added that the EIR would stand alone as advice to staff, the Commission and the Council. He
stated that a decision has not been made on whether staff will recoffilllend the project with
modifications, or an alternative. He also made a correction to the schedule outlined by Mr.
Miller, stating that a decision for certification would most likely be made before winter of 1999
and more likely in the spring of 1999.
Vice Chairman Teglia stated that one of the concerns raised at the original study session was
that the appropriateness of the project needs to be determined quickly in order to provide an
opportunity to modify the existing plan or find an alternative site in time to make the year 2000.
He noted that he had a number of questions and concerns that he would defer until after the
public testimony.
Chairman Barnett asked if there was anyone in the audience who would like to speak. Being
none he invited comments from the Commission.
Vice Chairman Teglia noted that his concerns are with the approach to the alternatives. He
identified Section B (2), which talks about the alternatives that were considered and rejected. He
stated that the option of a site in Brisbane and Millbrae were rejected due to lack of possible
sites, noting that there seems to be a lot of open space in Brisbane, and he felt that it should have
been considered in the EIR as a viable alternative. He asked if it could be looked at, or if there is
a reason why it was not.
Mr. Harnish noted that in response to the Commission's comments made at the last study
session, staff is researching other five-acre alternative sites for a project different from what was
described in the EIR, which is a consolidated facility. He stated that research had been done on a
ten-acre site that met part of the applicant's objectives for the project. He stated that the
Redevelopment Agency had paid for a real estate broker to conduct a search for alternative sites,
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that included the entire service area for the Scavengers, and no sites were identified. He stated
that the large area in Brisbane was determined to be unavailable at this point.
Vice Chairman Teglia noted that the "no building" alternative assumed that Blue Line would
continue to be operated, which he says is an erroneous assumption since his understanding of the
franchise agreement included the relocation of Linden, and under that scenario the alternative
would mean that Blue Line would move to a different site, which would allow for a smaller site
than the ten acres to accommodate a MRF, with the offices remaining on Linden.
He referenced sections in the tables that spoke of meeting mandatory policies. He specifically
identified Section 3(b) 19, where the discussion of the 100' BCDC setback quotes that "the City
of South San Francisco Planning Commission has determined that a parking area can encroach
within the 100' buffer area". He stated that he does not recall malting a policy decision on that,
but have made exceptions in the past where a sizeable amount of open space has been gained to
mitigate the encroachment, which is a different scenario from a large industrial complex
encroaching into the buffer.
He also referenced Page 3 (a) 12, which refers to "proposed above ground fuel tanks". He stated
that the Planning Commission would make a policy decision in the future on that. However his
understanding is that there have been plenty of precedents in the past where both Planning and
Council have stated that above ground fuel tanks are highly discouraged.
He commented on the traffic section, where assumptions are made that when a project is moving
from one side of town to another, traffic is being simply relocated. He noted that the current
location on Oyster Point is near the freeway and is a wide road, and while it is becoming
congested, is not as congested as Grand which is further away from easy access to the freeway
and the facility would require different needs in terms of ingress and egress for a brand new
facility which is incorporating recycling and household hazardous waste disposal which will be
incorporated with the County's program talting more of regional draw of traffic into that aliery.
He noted that those were his only concerns that need to be addressed in the EIR.
He added that while highly desirable to consolidate everything on one site, the goal is to get a
MRF into operation to meet the year 2000 deadline, and consolidation of the facilities is not
necessary, given to the conclusions that the preferred plan has significant impacts. He noted that
they visited several locations where the MRF is entirely separate from the administrative and
operation part of the scavenger companies' dumping site. He suggested that perhaps a split
option where the offices remain on Linden, or relocate elsewhere on the bay front sepal'ate from
the MRF would open up many sites within the city, which have now been overlooked because
they can not accommodate the entire project.
Commissioner Masuda noted that the preferred alternative for Shaw Road which would
eliminate off-street parking on Shaw Road and Linden, noting that going under 380 to San Bruno
is a very narrow street and the alternative of cutting it back from 1,000 to 750 is not practical,
adding that if you're going to build a facility now it should be done to prevent a need for
expansion ten years from now.
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Commissioner Sim asked staff if appropriate noticing had been done, and whether any
comments had been received.
Commissioner Honan asked if the notification was expanded as requested by the Commission.
Commissioner Sim noted that this is going to be a very difficult decision for the Planning
Commission to make, and one of the things he mentioned was that the 1000 foot noticing is
beyond the norm; however the Commission had requested that the homeowners also be included.
He stated that he wanted to make sure that the community is aware of this major decision,
adding that he was not comfortable going through deliberations without any community input.
Mr. Harnish noted that it was not unusual for projects in the East of 101 where there are no
residents. He stated that larger display ads could be purchased, and advertising on a regional
basis, as well as noticing to a wider range could be added, however it would be very expensive
and is not a cost borne by the applicant.
Chairman Barnett noted that in this.case because of the impacts of the project he thought that
while excessive, a notice should go out to everybody in the City, adding that the onus gets put on
the Commission to make the determination of what noticing is appropriate. He added that he has
a problem and cannot comment since he missed the study session three weeks ago, and did not
receive the minutes or a copy of the Draft EIR that was handed out at the study session.
Mr. Harnish noted that he would be reluctant to notice everyone in the city, which would
involve 18,000 notices. However, he noted that if the Commission feels that this is the extent to
which they want to notice, he would look into options.
Vice Chairman Teglia suggested that the next meeting could provide a section for additional
oral comments on the EIR.
Mr. Harnish noted that this item could be continued and additional courtesy notices could be
mailed to all of the homeowners associations and expanded for the December 17th meeting for.
Commissioner Honan noted that she would like to see the noticing expanded.
Commissioner Baldocchi noted that it would be nice to have public testimony, however it is a
representative democracy, and it is the responsibility of the Commission to represent the people
of the city. She added that public notification could be done however if the public does not
respond it is the Commission's responsibility to make a decision.
Vice Chairman Teglia agreed adding that the public should trust the Commission's decision.
He commented that one problem with the notification is that frequently the notification goes to
property owners and not tenants, and it might be nice to do some sort of outreach to that area.
Commissioner Masuda suggested that an announcement could be made at the next Council
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Meeting.
Mr. Harnish noted that he would talk with the City Manager to see if that could be
accommodated.
Chairman Barnett asked how many tons a day is currently generated by South San Francisco
Scavengers and raised other questions regarding the criteria for the recommended amount that
would be generated.
A South San Francisco Scavenger's representative (not identified) directed the Commission to
Appendix B in the EIR, and provided details on the estimates and amounts generated for the
various jurisdictions.
Vice Chairman Teglia asked if the Scavengers would be permitted to include new jurisdictions
to the service area. He noted that under any scenario, strictly speaking for South San Francisco
and the Airport the reduced option is adequate to handle those needs.
The South San Francisco Scavenger representative (not identified) agreed; however he added that
the Scavengers have franchise agreements with both Brisbane and Millbrae.
Commissioner Sim asked if there was a way to look at the needs in terms of acreage for each of
the components to help the Commission in analyzing why the ten-acre site is so important.
Mr. Stickler consultant for ESA responded that there is no formula to determine that. He added
that the more space you have, the more you can do, and the Scavenger Company wants the
flexibility to be able to handle a lot of different waste streams and process them as much as they
can in order to recover as much as possible, which is limited with a small space. He noted that
the amount of material going to Blue Line is considered remarkable by many people given the
size of the facility. However, while a lot of material is going through there and they are currently
recovering a lot, the amount could be increased with additional space
Commissioner Sim responded that the trade offs need to be considered for what the maximum
yields are, which will give the Commission a better indication of the flexibility for other
alternative considerations and evaluation of the importance of a ten-acre site.
Vice Chairman Teglia stated that while he agrees with Commissioner Sim's point, he noted that
this is the EIR hearing and that idea should be explored after the EIR is settled.
Commissioner Romero noted that if this project is approved it would require the rezoning of the
coastal commercial designation, and will designate a site that will indirectly provide a benefit to
other cities, Brisbane, Millbrae, and possibly other agencies. He noted that it would be generate
impacts to this City through an increase in traffic, in what is a means for those other cities
attaining their goals in reducing their 50% mandate. He noted that he felt it was important that
other cities contribute to this type of facility, similar to what the Sunnyvale facility has (a joint
operation) between three cities. He added that he found it hard to believe that Brisbane does not
have any space available to provide the Scavengers with a site for this purpose, and for this
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reason it becomes South San Francisco's responsibility to provide space. He stated that he felt
that the other cities should be held accountable for their fair share and asked if there was some
way to mitigate the impacts that will be created by servicing other cities to help reduce those
impacts for South San Francisco.
Commissioner Masuda stated that he thought those cities were already being charged to haul
the garbage, the same way as San Bruno sewage.
Discussions followed that there was some concern among some of the Commission that the other
cities were not being held accountable for the impact to South San Francisco's infrastructure.
Commissioner Baldocchi asked if the other cities are aware that this facility is being considered
for South San Francisco.
Commissioner Honan commented that if these cities are informing us that they do not have
sites, how could they not know.
Mr. Harnish stated that staff has not researched the other cities. In response to comments raised
by Vice Chairman Teglia with regard to the narrow scope of the search, he explained that when
an applicant comes before staff for CEQA purposes, they are requested to provide the project
objectives in order to form a basis for evaluating the project, and looldng at alternatives. He
stated that to some extent staff is required to analyze the project based on the applicant's stated
objectives. He noted that in this situation something different could be approved that does not
meet all the objectives. However he noted that staff does not take it upon themselves to evaluate
whether the application will be recommended on a different set of objectives from what the
applicant has requested.
He noted that staff initially worked with the applicant to try to find alternative sites, recognizing
that this is a controversial site which would require significant policy change. He indicated that
in recommending the project to Council the Commission has the flexibility to express the
reluctance to accept this project, and recommend another project on another site.
Vice Chairman Teglia noted that he understood the analogy, but noted that it was not the same.
He noted that this is a different project, which could not be approached in the normal manner,
since part of the agreement with the Scavengers is that the City is going to assist them in finding
a site. He noted that this involves a legislative deadline, which is in the interest of both the City
and the Scavengers to meet, and due to the time constraints this issue requires a proactive
approach in order to insure that the time constraints are met. He noted that he had pointed out
some errors in the assumptions earlier, which he felt should be addressed in the EIR. He noted
that aside from the EIR, the Commission is having a difficult time giving up such a prime
location, which impacts the City in such a significant way. He added that other methods for
getting the MRF in should be done in parallel with the original proposal.
Commissioner Honan again asked if the notices for the businesses had been extended, or was it
only for what is legally required.
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Commissioner Sim reiterated that he wanted staff to know that the Commission is not
recommending that all homeowners be notified. However they are requesting that each
homeowner's associations and the Chamber of Commerce be notified.
Commissioner Baldocchi expressed a concern that the city councils and administrations of other
cities served by the Scavengers may not be aware that this is happening, while it is something
that they are mandated to do. She stated that she did not understand why they were not required
to come to the table to negotiate assistance with supporting the impacts to South San Francisco's
infrastructure, leaving it to this Commission to deal with.
Commissioner Honan asked who had hired the realtor to research the locations.
Mr. Harnish indicated that it was through the Redevelopment Agency since it is in the
redevelopment project area.
Commissioner Masuda noted that considering the discussions, this should be opened for public
hearing.
Chairman Barnett agreed, and asked that any recommendations on the EIR be put forth,
otherwise he recommended moving on to the next item.
Vice Chairman Teglia agreed, adding that what has been discussed is calling for more
alternatives in the EIR, which should be addressed in the EIR. He moved to continue oral
comments to the December 3rd meeting.
Motion-Masuda/Second-Sim. Approved by majority voice vote.
Vice Chairman Teglia requested that staff provide a simple comparison of existing MRF's in the
area, size, capacity, and method for sorting to assist them in evaluating the project.
ADMINISTRATIVE BUSINESS
Items from Staff
7
a.
Discussions on Terrabay Public Hearing Schedule
Mr. Harnish noted that the Final EIR is being prepared for direction to be given to the
consultant, and that will probably not be ready until the week after next. He noted that he was
not prepared to provide a schedule until he had a better idea of when the EIR will be published.
He noted that the next dates he would be given, he would hope to be firm. He also mentioned
that staff continues to meet with the applicant's team talking about revisions to the Point, and
they came back with some ideas, that will continue at a meeting next Monday. He recommended
scheduling a study session for 6:30 p.m. prior to the Regular Meeting on December 3rd.
Chairman Barnett requested that staff come back on the 3rd with concrete information.
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Vice Chairman Teglia requested that the material for the meetings be available with the Friday
packet before the meeting, which would then give the Commission a better idea if the material
warrants a study session.
Mr. Harnish noted that they are struggling to get it done by the 10th of December, so this would
mean that a study session would have to be in January.
Chairman Barnett and Vice Chairman Teglia noted that considering the schedule, it may not
be a bad idea. Chairman Barnett suggested further discussions on the 3rd.
Assistant City Attorney Lindgren noted that if the Commission has any particular questions on
what staff is doing and what is taking so long, he would be happy to provide that information on
an individual basis.
b. Other
None
Items from Commission
Commissioner Masuda asked if there were restrictions for gardeners blowing the grass out on
the street after the sweeper goes by.
Mr. Harmon noted that the storm drain code includes regulations.
Commissioner Romero noted that effective Monday he would be at a new location in San
Leandro, and provided his new telephone number.
Commissioner Baldocchi asked if there was an ordinance requiring that dog owners clean up
after their dogs.
Sgt. Massoni responded that there is a leash law, that requires owners to keep their dogs on a
leash, as well as a pooper-scooper law that requires that they clean up after their pets. He noted
that it does not fully address private property.
Vice Chairman Teglia noted that something that is very important to him is the nomenclature
where the city refers to different neighborhoods by names that have been defined and understood
over the years. He noted that the General Plan Consultant decided to name the South Linden area
Lindenville, which was never adopted by the City Council.
Discussions followed that historic records indicate that the area was originally referred to as
Lindenville.
Chairman Barnett announced that due to his heavy schedule, he has submitted a letter to
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Council and Planning staff announcing that he will not be considering a second term, and his
intent is to attend his last meeting on January 7th to entertain motions for reorganization of the
Planning Commission.
Commissioner Romero noted that he has not yet applied for reappointment, but has been told
that he can apply for another term.
Commissioner Masuda raised a question of possible consequences of a new Commission and
how it could affect the ongoing projects, such as Terrabay.
Assistant City Attorney Lindgren noted that he has considered the issue, and he would ask that
new Commissioners carefully review all of the meeting minutes, tapes, and individualized packet
of relevant materials submitted for the record, which city staff would make available to them. He
noted that with those considerations he would feel comfortable allowing them participating in
future votes.
Items from the Public
None
Adjourn
Motion-Sim/Second-Romero. Meeting adjourned at 10:42 p.m.
I
. ff "-'~
a ristopher Barnett,
./Planning Commissibn
City of South San Francisco
'-
JH:is
NEXT MEETING: Regular Meeting December 3, 1998, Municipal Services Building, 33
Arroyo Drive, South San Francisco, CA.
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