HomeMy WebLinkAbout04 CUP 08-005ITEM #4
Report to the
Planning Commission
DATE: MAY 27, 2008
SUBJECT: CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT 08-005
PROPERTY
OWNER: AMUSEMENT INDUSTRY COMMERCIAL PROPERTIES PTNSHP.
6665 LONG BEACH BLVD.
LONG BEACH, CA 90805
APPLICANT: COMMON GROUND INTERFAITH SPIRITUAL CENTER, INC.
18282 E. SANTA CLARA AVENUE
SANTA ANA, CA 92705
LOCATION: 14051 NEWPORT AVENUE, SUITE H
GENERAL PLAN: COMMUNITY COMMERCIAL
ZONING: PLANNED COMMUNITY COMMERCIAL (PC-C)
ENVIRONMENTAL
STATUS: THIS PROJECT IS CATEGORICALLY EXEMPT PURSUANT TO
SECTION 15301 (CLASS 01) OF THE CALIFORNIA
ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT
REQUEST: A REQUEST TO OPERATE A SPIRITUAL CENTER WITH A
BOOKSTORE AND SERVICES INCLUDING CHILDCARE,
CLASSES AND SANCTUARY WITHIN AN EXISTING 4,685
SQUARE FOOT TENANT SPACE.
RECOMMENDATION
That the Planning Commission adopt Resolution No. 4092 approving Conditional Use
Permit 08-005 to allow for the operation of a spiritual center with a bookstore and
services including childcare, classes, and sanctuary within an existing 4,685 square foot
tenant space located at 14051 Newport Avenue, Suite H.
BACKGROUND
The Tustin Freeway Center is subject to the development standards and permitted uses
outlined within the Planned Community District Regulations as approved by the Planning
Planning Commission Report
CUP 08-005
May 27, 2008
Page 2
Commission on January 8, 1990, adopting Resolution No. 2731 to allow for development of
the center. The Planning Commission later adopted Resolution No. 4002, on October 24,
2005, to modify said regulations in response to a high vacancy rate at the project site. All
uses that require approval of a Conditional Use Permit within the Central Commercial (C-2)
zoning district also require a conditional use permit within the Tustin Freeway Center, with
the exception of some outright permitted uses and some prohibited uses. Staff feels that
the proposed use is most similar to a church use which is conditionally permitted within the
C-2 zoning district.
Site and Surrounding Properties
The Tustin Freeway Center is located southwesterly of the Interstate 5 Freeway and
Newport Avenue intersection at 14051-14061 Newport Avenue. (Attachment A -Location
Map). The Interstate 5 Freeway borders the site to the north with residential uses zoned
Multiple Family Residential (R-3) to the southwest of the site. To the west of the site
across "B" Street is a mobile home park. Similar commercially zoned properties along
Newport Avenue border the site.
The project site is comprised of three buildings, one of which is a stand-alone restaurant
pad (Carl's Jr.) and the other two being larger commercial buildings with multiple tenants.
The proposed use would be located within Building B which is the largest of the three.
Immediately to the south of the project site and linked via parking lot access is Phase 2 of
the Tustin Freeway Center which consists of a 10,472 square foot commercial building
recently constructed in 2006.
City Business License records indicate that there have been eight different businesses in
Suite H since 1991. The majority of those businesses lasted only a few months and only
one remained in business longer than a year. The previous businesses included the retail
sales of clothing, boots, rugs, furniture, antiques and the service commercial uses as
fitness facilities and martial arts studios.
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
The Common Ground Interfaith Spiritual Center is a non-profit group with a proposed use
that focuses on community outreach to help other qualifying non-profit groups such as the
Orange County Rescue Mission, Irvine Animal Center, Mary's Kitchen, Seeds of Light,
Serving People In Need (SPIN), Westview Community Services, Laurel House, and African
Well Fund among others. In addition, Common Ground also holds gatherings for
meditation, prayer, and spiritual direction with an attendance that does not typically
exceed 18 people.
Common Ground is currently operating at 624 E. First Street in an 1,100 square foot
Planning Commission Report
CUP 08-005
May 27, 2008
Page 3
approved Use Determination 05-002 and Conditional Use Permit 05-025 to allow
Common Ground to operate in the current Larwin Square facility. The applicant is
proposing to relocate the business from the Larwin Square location to the Tustin
Freeway Center and operate in substantially the same manner at the new location.
The proposed location is a 4,685 square foot tenant space towards the rear of the
Tustin Freeway Center with no exposure to Newport Avenue. The much larger tenant
space allows the business to provide an ample space for sanctuary and an increased
retail sales area for their bookshop. The proposed tenant space would also allow for
increased operations by providing for a classroom/workshop area as well as childcare
facilities for parents attending services or classes. In addition, there would also be
ancillary office use for employees. Common Ground was approved as a "meeting
room" at the Larwin Square location, however, theexpansion of uses would alter the
business to more closely identify as a church use. The applicant has provided an fin-
depth description of the proposed operations which is contained within Attachment B -
Submitted Plans.
Redevelopment Agency
The City of Tustin Redevelopment Agency has expressed concern regarding a church
use with a very small retail component going into a commercial center that is located on a
major street with freeway access. The project site is located within the South Central
Redevelopment Project Area as well as the Southern Gateway Urban Land Institute (ULI)
Study Area. The ULI performed a study on various areas throughout the City in June of
2006. The Tustin Freeway Center is a prime location in the Southern Gateway of the
Neighborhoods of Tustin Town Center where a study is currently being conducted by
Field Paoli Architects. The purpose of the study is to foster commercial revitalization in
these neighborhoods and commercial revitalization wiA be very limited with the placement
of Common Ground at this location.
Hours of Operation
The programs offered by Common Ground occur at various times throughout the day,
week and year. Most activities do not overlap and classes/workshops will operate daily
between a set timeframe, but are not expected to occupy the entire timeframe on a daily
basis. Due to the myriad of classes/workshops offered, specific times for each class are
not determined until they are established. Classes/workshops are consistently held in the
evening hours Monday through Friday. Childcare services will only be offered to patrons
attending events and the parents will remain present on-site.
The proposed hours of operations are as follows:
Retail Operations (bookstore/gift shop)
Planning Commission Report
CUP 08-005
May 27, 2008
Page 4
Tuesday and Friday: 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Saturday: 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Sunday: 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Services (Sanctuary)
Saturday: 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Sunday: 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
Classes/Workshops
Daily 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Parking
The existing 4,685 square -foot tenant space has been allotted eighteen (18) parking
spaces based on a retail use within the Tustin Freeway Center. Common Ground is
considered a church (spiritual center) that operates both a small retail component as well
as a larger assembly use component. The retail portion would occupy 507 square feet
and require two (2) parking stalls, which would leave sixteen (16) parking stalls still
available to the tenant space. Assembly uses within the City typically require one (1)
parking stall for every three (3) persons. Applying this ratio to the. project, if approved,
Common Ground would be allowed a maximum of forty-eight (48) persons for assembly
(classes/sanctuary/childcare) uses at any given time.
FINDINGS
In determining whether to approve the Conditional Use Permit for the proposed spiritual
center with bookstore, the Planning Commission must determine whether or not the
proposed use will be detrimental to the health, safety, morals, comfort, and general
welfare of the persons residing in or working in the neighbofiood or whether it will be
injurious or detrimental to property or improvements in the vicinity or to the welfare of the
City. A decision to approve this request may be supported by the following findings:
1) The proposed use would be located in an existing 4,685 square foot tenant space
located within a shopping center and, as conditioned, would not be detrimental to
surrounding properties in that the hours of operation, number of participants, and
scope of operations for the proposed spiritual center with bookstore would be
compatible and consistent with the commercial retail uses in the center and nearby
properties, and all operations would be conducted inside the building with closed
doors.
2) The proposed use is not anticipated to result in parking impacts since the total
number of attendance would be limited to forty-eight (48) persons based upon the
Planning Commission Report
CUP 08-005
May 27, 2008
Page 5
available on-site parking using the ratio of one (1) parking space for every three (3)
persons, which is the typical ratio used for assembly uses throughout the City.
3) The proposed use will not be detrimental to the surrounding properties in that the
hours of operation would be from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. daily, which is consistent
with the general business hours of other businesses within the surrounding vicinity.
4) The proposed use offers a retail component, however the primary function of the
business as a spiritual center make it a destination use that is not dependent upon
street frontage exposure. Prior retail uses have struggled at the subject location
due to the lack of street exposure. This use may also spur economic interest in
the other businesses within the Tustin Freeway Center as it will draw patrons from
a larger area of Orange County and Tustin that would not otherwise visit the Tustin
Freeway Center.
Staff recommends that that the Planning Commission adopt Resolution No. 4092
approving Conditional Use Permit 08-005 to conditionally permit a spiritual center. with a
bookstore and services including childcare, classes, and sanctuary within an existing
4,685 square foot tenant space located at 14051 Newport Avenue, Suite H.
R Swiontek
Associate Planner
Elizabeth A. Binsack
Community Development Director
Attachments: A. Location Map
B. Submitted Plans
C. Resolutions No. 4092
ATTACHMENT A
LOCATION MAP
Tustin Freeway Center
14051 Newport Avenue
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Reverend Glenda Hnoz
Reverend Judy DePrete
March 5, 2008
City of Tustin
Community Development Department
300 Centennial Way
Tustin, CA 92780
RE: Conditional Use Permit #08-005
Deaz Reina,
As requested, please see the attached supporting information for Common Ground's
recent submission for a Conditional Use Permit.
Included with this letter, please find:
• A description of the proposed use of existing leased space at 14051 Suite H
Newport Avenue, Tustin
• An architectural drawing of the proposed floor plan
• A schedule and description of Common Ground's basic activities
• A current month calendaz of events -March 2008
• Common Ground's updated Business Plan -March 2008 thru March 2009
Please contact me if you need further information.
Thank you and best regards,
Rev. Judy De Prete
RECEIVED
MAR 5 2008
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
Reverend Glenda Knox
Reverend Judi DePrete
Proposed Use of 14051 Suite H, Newport Avenue, Tustin, CA
Common Ground's identity is made cleaz by its floor plan, its general design, its interior
furnishings and its outside sign (boazd). Because the focus of our work is on outreach and
inclusive interfaith spirituality the design is sacred, serene, tranquil and inclusive. We are
centrally located near the business district, main thorough fares, local residential areas
and accessible local and regional infrastructures such as freeways.
• Common Ground is currently doing business in the City of Tustin at 624 East
First Street situated in a retail shopping center known as Larwin Square. Our
lease expires in June 2008. We obtained a Conditional Use Permit for this
location; which is approximately 1200 square feet, reasonably priced,
conveniently located, an adequate size, visible and accessible.
• Common Ground proposes to relocate with the City of Tustin to 14051 Suite
H, Newport Avenue, Tustin, CA, situated in a shopping center known as Tustin
Freeway Center. We are seeking a Conditional Use Permit #08-005 for this new
location; which is approximately 4600 square feet, reasonably priced,
conveniently located, an adequate size, visible and accessible.
• Common Ground will continue to operate in a substantially similar manner
when relocated to Newport Avenue.
Common Ground's proposed floor plan at the Newport Avenue location includes
the following uses:
• Bookstore: Operations will be consistent with our existing operations. Foot
traffic is generally light. The bookstore will be open during normal business
hours 6 days a week, and before and after worship services on weekends. The
bookstore will be closed during services. Adequate storage for overstock and
inventory will be available.
• Sanctuary: Services will be consistent with our existing operation. We hold
silent meditation weekly on Sunday mornings from 9:30 to 10:00 am. We meet
from 6:00 to 7:00 pm on Saturday evenings and from 10:30 to 11:30 am on
Sunday mornings. The Sanctuary will be used occasionally during the week for
classes and workshops in which there is a need for viewing films and DVD's.
Additional weekend services will be added in the future if attendance increases.
• Nursery, Toddler, Kinder Care, Active Play: Common Ground does not
currently have a children's program. Appropriate play areas for children are
included in the proposed floor plan. Minimal use is anticipated.
• Ministry Office: Common Ground currently houses its Ministry Office off-site.
A Ministry Office will be included in the proposed floor plan. The Ministry
Office will not be occupied during services and will be for the exclusive use of
the senior and executive ministers.
• Class Room: Common Ground currently has no separate classroom facility. The
proposed floor plan includes a classroom for small group workshops and classes.
It is intended for these experiences to be held throughout the week during the day
and evening. The classroom will not be used at the same time as services.
• Storage: The proposed floor plan provides adequate storage space on the
mezzanine.
• Meditation Room: The proposed floor plan provides for a private meditation
room on the mezanine. This area will be for the exclusive use of the senior and
executive ministers.
• Restroom Facilities: The proposed floor plan provides two adequate ADA
restroom facilities on the first floor of the unit. There will be separate ADA
restrooms for men and women. Additional restroom facilities are proposed on the
mezzanine, one for men with a stall and urinal, and one for women with two
stalls.
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Schedule*
(*See attached Calendaz for March 2008)
The scope of Common Ground's work emphasizes community outreach in the form of
financial contributions to other qualifying 501 (c) (3) charitable organizations in the
Orange County area and beyond, service projects, prayer, meditation, spiritual direction,
inspirational worship services, workshops, classes, retail sales of spiritual books and
merchandise, and virtual ministry through use of the Internet.
• Outreach Through Financial Contributions
Each month, Common Ground tithes 10% of its gross income to qualifying charitable
organizations. Past and current recipients of financial contributions include: SPIN -
Serving People In Need (serving homeless and working poor in Orange County), Seeds
of Light (serving children orphaned by the AIDS epidemic in Africa), Mary's Kitchen
(feeding the homeless), African Well Fund (providing water to African villages), Irvine
Animal Shelter (providing care and assistance to abandoned animals), Tsunami Relief
Funds, Westview Community Services (serving developmentally disabled adults),
Orange County Rescue Mission (serving the homeless), Collette's Home (serving
recovering mothers with children), Laurel House (serving teens in crisis), Hurricane
Katrina Relief Funds, Be the Cause (serving those in need), Free Wheelchair Mission
(serving the disabled in third world countries), and others.
• Service Projects support our foundational understanding that: "We must put
into practice the spiritual principals we know by Walking the Talk" in our
daily lives."
Common Ground participates in a variety of service outreach projects throughout the
year. All projects are hands-on and take place off-site. Past and current service projects
include: collection of coats, blankets, shoes and cold weather clothing for Orange
County's homeless population; collection and distribution of hygiene kits for the
homeless; collection and distribution of clothing and household items for the working
poor; assembly and distribution of holiday gifts for families who are in transitional
living; collection and distribution of working wardrobes for women in domestic abuse
shelters and substance recovery programs; serving at the Santa Ana armory Emergency
Cold Weather Shelter Program for the homeless; serving clients at Westview
Community Center; visitation at convalescent homes for the elderly and disabled;
collection and distribution of back packs and back-to-school supplies for children;
serving at picnics for families and children at SPIN; and others.
• Prayer and Meditation: "Life is Prayer. Quiet Mind allows us to consciously
connect with Spirit."
Common Ground has its foundation in prayer and meditation. Many opportunities to sit
or stand in silence and contemplation are provided throughout the month. Conscious
experiences take place on an individual basis on-site, off-site in other spiritual settings
and in nature.
• Spiritual Direction supports our understanding that Common Ground: "Is a
teaching-learning center where people bring their very souls, where people
grow one another by sharing what they know, where people learn spiritual
practices to support them in working with the complex possibilities of today's
world."
Common Ground offers opportunities for individuals to come together in small group and
one-on-one settings to share spiritual direction. This activity is most often demonstrated
in settings where one of Common Ground's ministers is present and offering spiritual
counseling and prayer support.
• Inspirational Worship Service
Common Ground offers a weekly opportunity to gather in prayer and meditation, to listen
to music, and to share a common inclusive interfaith message.
• Workshops and Classes
Common Ground offers a wide variety of experiences in which teachings from wisdom
traditions, spiritual paths, religious experiences, personal growth curriculum, and science
and spirituality studies aze offered. Workshops and classes are integral, experiential, and
multidisciplinary. Modules can include, film, DVD presentation, lecture, book study,
field trips, art, music, and discussion. Learning takes place both on-site and off-site.
• Retail Sales of Spiritual Books and Merchandise
Common Ground offers a wide variety of classic spiritual texts from most religious
traditions, a well rounded selection of titles commonly considered foundational to broad
based spiritual awareness, books by contemporary spiritual and personal growth authors,
conscious living, books for children and adults, and inspirational reading material. Prayer
beads, candles,: aromatic herbs, seasonal items, spiritual gifts and other related
merchandise compliment the work of Common Ground.
• Virtual Ministry
Common Ground currently has developed a very prominent and well positioned web site
which is used primarily as a channel for its ministry and message and is well listed in all
the local and regional web directories.
Business Plan
Period: March 2008 through March 2009
18282 E. Santa Clara Avenue
Santa Ana, CA 92705
Phone: 714-832-2845
Fax: 714-368-1592
Email: Judy@embracehumanity.com
Web Site: www. embracehumanity.com
Contact: Rev. Glenda Knox, Rev. Judy De Prete
THIS DOCUMENT CONTAINS PROPRIETARY AND CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION
AND IS NOT TO BE DISTRIBUTED WITHOUT PRIOR WRITTEN PERMISSION
Table of Contents
Introduction 3
Executive Summary 5
Promotional Value 8
Market Analysis 9
Mazketing Goals 8t Strategies 10
Operations 11
Advertising and Promotion 13
SWOT Analysis 16
The Organizational Structure l8
Key Team 19
Administrative Organization 20
Financial Plan 21
Risk Management 22
Appendices 26
Copyright ~ 2007 Common Ground Interfaith Spiritual center, Inc. All rights reserved.
By accepting a copy of this report, the recipient agrees not to reproduce it in whole or in part, not to use it for any other
purpose than reading, and not to disclose any of its contents to third parties without written permission of Common
Ground Interfaith Spiritual Center, Inc. The report is furnished for information purposes only. No representation or
warranty is made by Common Ground Interfaith Spiritual Center, Inc.. or any other entity as to the accuracy or
completeness of the information, and nothing contained in the report: i& or shall be, relied on as a promise or
representation of the future.
2
Introduction
Business description
Common Ground Interfaith Spiritual Center, Inc. is a 501(C)(3) non-profit religious
organization in the broadest sense of the word. The scope of our work emphasizes
community outreach in the form of financial contributions to other qualifying 501 (c) (3)
charitable organizations in the Orange County area, service projects, prayer, meditation,
spiritual direction, inspirational worship services, retail sales of spiritual books and
merchandise, and virtual ministry through use of the Internet. More and more of the
population is gaining an interest in inclusive spirituality, increasingly becoming known as
"spiritual and not religious' by definition.
Business formation
The company was started by founding ministers Reverend Glenda Knox and Reverend
Judy De Prete in November 2004. The company form is Incorporated (Inc), Registration
is in the State of California. under number: 2713053. 'The company currently has no
employees.
For federal income tax purposes, Common Ground Interfaith Spiritual Center, Inc. is tax
exempt and is organized and operated exclusively for religious purposes within the
meaning of Section 501(c}(3), Internal Revenue Code..
Directors
The Board of Directors consists of Glenda Knox, Judy De Prete, Dennis De Prete, Susan
Chamberlain, and Stacie Buda and they have the principal responsibility for fulfillment of
the company's mission and the legal accountability far its operations..
Our Board of Directors further ensures adequate human and financial resources and
actively monitors and evaluates the organization's overall financial results. The board
members approve and implement policies to ensure achievement of the mission of the
organization and to prevent perceived, potential or actual conflict of interest. They will
accomplish these functions through regular meetings scheduled. monthly.
Advisory Team
Common Ground Interfaith Spiritual Center, Inc.'s advisory team has direct knowledge
of church growth and development, extensive outreach experience, and professional
administration skills. Our team includes Sharon Miles, Alys Sullivan,Cordell Svengalis,
Judith Freyer Palmer and Velda Ballard; professionals with the following areas of
3
expertise, Finance, Real Estate, Marriage and Family Counseling, Education, Insurance
Brokerage, and Art.
Glenda Knox -President and Senior Minister
She has a Bachelor Degree with a major in Religious Studies. She has a background in
church administration and ministry. Her mix of skills enables her to understand the
business of Common Ground Interfaith Spiritual Center, Inc. from all perspectives and
direct Common Ground in the right direction over the coming years. Her experience in
ministry and church management makes her perfectly placed in this position.
Judy De Prete -Vice President and Executive Minister
Reverend Judy De Prete has 25 years experience as a self employed insurance executive,
13 years in church growth and development and 7 years in ministry. She has a Bachelor
Degree with a major in Religious Studies.
Susan Chamberlain -Secretary
Reverend Susan Chamberlain holds a Master Degree. She is retired from a long-time
career as a high school literature teacher for gifted students. She has a Doctorate Degree
in Religious Studies and as a licensed minister leads Earth Ministry at Common Ground.
Dennis De Prete -Treasurer
Mr. De Prete has 38 years experience in the insurance industry. He is self employed as
an insurance broker and financial planner. He is ideally suited for this position having a
Master Degree in Business Arts with emphasis on finance and management.
Stacie Buda -Director
Stacie Buda is a ministerial student at Common Ground currently serving internship in
preparation for licensing as a minister of Common Ground. She is a professional dental
assistant and comes well prepared to enhance the mission and vision. of Common Ground.
Common Ground Interfaith Spiritual Center, Inc. offers reasonable salary to its Senior
and Executive ministers as determined by the. board of directors. Currently each minister
is receiving a token salary in the amount of $1,000 per month
4
Executive summary
Business goals/mission
As a tax exempt non-profit 501(c)(3) organization realizing a permanent place of
prominence in local interfaith ministry is our primary goal. We wish to be well-known as
an inclusive interfaith ministry and spiritual community. We see it as our main mission to
provide excellence in ministry to Orange County residents and to the growing Internet
community. Basic corporate objective is reflected in everything that we do, which is to
contribute to the enrichment of the quality of lives for people.
Business philosophies/identity
By combining experience and spiritual awareness Common Ground Interfaith Spiritual
Center, Inc. is able to create a supportive ministerial presence. Common Ground uses
advanced technology and creativity to offer a high quality experience.
Our corporate philosophies are embedded in our people oriented management and
operations, providing excellence in our services, continuous efforts to enhance our
existing outreach ministry and create new outreach opportunities, enhancement of church
programs, commitment to care for people through providing ministerial outreach, pursuit
of globalization of Common Ground's ministry presence fostering positive growth
through use of the digital domain and Internet. These philosophies shall be incorporated
at all levels of the company.
Location
We are located at 624 East First Street, Tustin, California. This location has been selected
because of its reasonable price, convenient location, adequate size,. visibility and image.
We are looking to relocate to 14051 Suite H, Newport Avenue, Tustin, California by June
2008.
Geographical markets
The primary market is local and regional due to location of the business in the city of
Tustin close to the 55 Freeway, 5 Freeway, and local residential areas.
Common Ground's activities are enhanced through a range of co-operative relationships
with entities such as:
- Alliance for a New Humanity
- Emerson Theological Institute
- Orange County Interfaith Coalition for the Environment
- Chamber Of Commerce
- Serving People in Need
5
- Common Ground Corona
- Bank of America
Vision of the future
Common Ground Interfaith Spiritual Center, Inc. can look forward to a promising future,
because of our experienced ministerial staff, our careful planning, and the potential of
continued effectiveness of the ministry. Our research has shown the market to have
plenty of room for a ministry such as Common Ground. The management style is
conscious, flexible, progressive and energetic. Enthusiasm of its ministers as well as
supporters will continue to greatly stimulate the envisioned growth.
Main objectives
Business objectives
1. Increase offerings at min. 50% yearly over the next 2 years
2. Financial supporter growth to 200 committed contributors by 2009
3. Become established as a well known ministry presence both locally and on the
internet over the next 2 years
4. Enhance programs and services over the next 2 years
Marketing objectives
1. Continue a strong ministry presence on the Internet
2. Expand supporter base
3. Increase ministry name recognition
4. Enhance programs and services
Key advantages
Common Ground Interfaith Spiritual Center, Inc is becoming a recognized ministerial
presence because of the following key advantages:
- A unique ministerial team.
- Established relationships with people seeking inclusive spiritual community and
interfaith ministry.
- Maintaining a high-quality real time financial information system.
- Senior management has significant business experience.
- Common Ground has consistently set and achieved financial measures in the areas of
liquidity, and offerings and is positioned well for future growth.
- Common Ground has negligible long-term debt.
- Common Ground is a closely held corporation with the potential to raise additional
offerings. The founders want to maintain a majority control. They are interested in
growth of the ministry through establishment of additional locations of interfaith
ministry, which may operate under their own constitution and bylaws provided that
they neither contradict nor violate the framework of the constitution and bylaws of
6
Common Ground Interfaith Spiritual Center, Inc. All ministers of such locations aze
to give account to the senior minister for every aspect of the established ministry.
Common Ground Corona is one such established additional location as of September
2007.
Strategic positioning
Common Ground Interfaith Spiritual Center, Inc. differentiates and positions its business
from the competitive offerings by having built a reputation as an inclusive and open
spiritual community and ministry embracing all faiths and all spiritual traditions,
providing outreach ministry to a wide variety of people.
Licenses
Common Ground Interfaith Spiritual. Center, Inc. has the following licenses
- City of Tustin Business License
- Ministerial Licenses
Offerings
In the past 3 years, Common Ground Interfaith Spiritual Center, Inc. has averaged
$200,000 a year in offerings.
Offerings are expected to reach $300,000, by the end of 2008.
We have planned for the expansion of the ministry through the digital domain, providing
access to a growing international network of spiritually minded people interested in
inclusive spiritual community and ministerial outreach. Our web site provides an easy
method for collection of offerings, donations and financial contributions.
Internet
Common Ground Interfaith Spiritual Center, Inc. currently has developed a very
prominent and well positioned web site.
Common Ground uses its web site primarily as an advertising channel for its ministry and
message and is well listed in all the local and regional web directories. Common Ground
is considering developing its web site to include an online spiritual bookstore.
7
Funds
Common Ground Interfaith Spiritual Center, Inc. was capitalized with $30,000 gifted
through its founding ministers. Common Ground was incorporated as a religious
corporation and is not organized for the private gain of any person.
We are becoming more widely known and more of the general population is gaining an
interest in our inclusive spiritual community and interfaith outreach ministry.
Promotional Value
Our inclusive spiritual community and interfaith outreach ministry is most appealing to
spiritually mature people who have a giving consciousness. It mostly appeals to
individuals with a concern for the welfare of others and an interest in inclusive interfaith
spiritual ministry.
Our ministry is unique because the dogmatic boundaries that normally divide individuals
within society and within spiritual settings are not present at Common Ground.
We wish to establish a very strong ministerial position within the next 2 years. The
current market offers stable growth and offerings.
Research and development
Our in-house growth and development team's major objective is to use market input to
develop services that meet specific needs as well as provide superior benefits to people.
Common Ground Interfaith Spiritual Center, Inc. has spent 40% of offerings in the past
year for enhancement and development, and plans to spend 40% of offerings during the
coming year so as to ensure continued enhancement of the ministry.
Contribution decision
As a result of our market research we can deduce that potential supporters will decide to
support our ministry based on the following criteria: Vision and Mission 100%
Quality
The quality is excellent to other ministries. No direct measures are needed. We will need
to continue to monitor the overall quality of the ministry.
Services
Our services appear to be excellent. No direct measures aze needed. We need to
continually monitor the overall level of service of the ministry.
8
Market analysis
At Common Ground Interfaith Spiritual Center, Inc. the following tools are used to
analyze and to explore the mazket:
- inquiries with existing and potential supporters
- information from publications on church growth and development
- collection of reports of trends in ministry
- collection of newsletters, publications and brochures of other ministries
Market coverage
Our supporters originate from many sources such as:
- New Thought 90%
- World Faiths 2%
- Unchurched 8%
A large number of financial supporters who come to Common Ground Interfaith Spiritual
Center, Inc. aze people who live locally. They subscribe to the principle of inclusive
spiritual community, charitable and conscious giving, and contribution to Common
Ground's focus on ministerial outreach.
Market segmentation
The most important group of people that supports our ministry includes spiritually mature
individuals who have a giving consciousness.
As Common Ground Interfaith Spiritual Center, Inc.'s knowledge and expertise in
attracting supporters develops, we will tazget other people who would benefit from the
specific focus of the ministry.
Market segment
Currently, Common Ground has 150 people as financial supporters. They form a
considerable part of Common Ground's offering base and we will continue to rely on this
foundational group for offerings in the future.
Our growing experience and expertise in this ministry has made it possible for Common
Ground to plan an enhancement of its ministry to attract additional supporters in the near
future.
Supporter profile
9
Supporters at Common Ground are typically emotionally and spiritually mature adults
between the ages of 40 and 65. They are normally well educated, professional people
with above average income levels and access to expendable income. They are generally
people who aze personally actualized and ready to move beyond personal needs into
serving the needs of the community
Marketing goals & strategies
Marketing goals
An important part of Common Ground Interfaith Spiritual Center, Inc.'s marketing goals
and strategies is maintaining its level of conscious ministerial presence and associated
services.
Common Ground. aims to increase offerings in 2008 to $230,000 and to realize an annual
increase of at least 25% in the next 5 years. We also wish to further build up the
ministry's reputation in the targeted financial supporter base. Maintaining operating cost
at its current ratio is also a primary goal.
A To realize an increase in offerings of 25%.
- Steadily increase financial supporters by at least 25% each year for the next 5 years.
- Eliminate complex and time-consuming procedures.
- Enlazge the recognition factor of the ministry
- .Increase offerings
- Locate more opportunities for ministerial outreach
Marketing. strategies
Increase financial supporters by application of tlu• planned strategies. Raise offerings by
providing increasing visibility of the ministry and its vision and mission
- Continue promotional actions reaching more potential supporters
- Maintain regulaz communication with potential supporters
- Keep in contact with existing supporters
- Make potential supporters aware of Common Ground's vision and mission.
Expand our knowledge base in world traditions, global outreach opportunities and
technical areas.
Fi'AmotiO-t
Promotion plays an important part in the role of the modern ministry. The advancement
of the vision and mission goes together with maximum supporter offerings.
10
To be able to fulfill such a function we need:
• to be accessible (easy to find and parking facilities)
• the proper physical setting
• the visibility of ministerial outreach needs
• to present the mission and vision
• excellent ministerial presence
The best method to attract a financial supporter is by personal contact. In order to get the
supporter interested and motivated we combine a promotion plan with active
participation.
Prospect objectives
Our prospects are people already interested in spirituality and ministerial outreach. Our
objectives are to attract our supporters and to enhance overall spiritual awareness and
activity.
The objectives of our supporters are to engage in spiritual community, express spiritual
awareness and contribute to charitable outreach ej~`orts.
Operations
Common Ground Interfaith Spiritaal Center, Inc.'a identity
The identity of the ministry is made clear by its communication materials, interior
furnishings, and Its outside Sign. (board). Because the. focus of our work is inclusive
interfaith spirituality the design is sacred, serene, tranquil and inclusive and this is
reflected in our services and promotions.
Operating boars
Common Ground intends to be open 7 days a week. Hours of operation vary depending
on the day of week. Monday through Friday we intend to be open during normal
business hours, 10 AM to 8:30 PM. Saturdays we intend to be open from 10 AM to 7
PM, and Sundays from 9 AM to 1 PM. We may be closed for Christmas, Thanksgiving,
the Fourth of July and certain other national holidays unless they fall on a Saturday or
Sunday.
Location
We are currently located at 624 East First Street, Tustin, California. This location has
been selected because of its reasonable price, convenient location, adequate size,
11
visibility and image. The space is situated in a retail shopping center. The location
provides our supporters with the necessary accessibility.
Inside city limib
The location has been chosen because of its central location to the business district, main
thorough fares, local residential areas and its accessibility to local and regional
infrastructure such as freeways.
Location. Descri 'on
Immediate area
Type of area Retail and residential
Adjacent uses Shopping center, residential
Benefits Commercial area with excellent logistic facilities
Prozimity
Customer type Business
Potential customers 67,000
Competitors Church of Religious Science, Unity, Catholic Churches, various
Protestant churches
Traffic volume
patterns Major intersection nearby
pedestrians Retail foot traffic
Periods Between 7:00 AM and 7:00 PM is extremely busy
Accessibility
Close to major streets Newport Blvd at First Street
entrance%xit Open doors, easy to walk in
Visibility
From road Easy to see, maximum signage per lease
Appeal of exterior Clean, attractive, unobstructed, well maintained
Premises
Common Ground Interfaith Spiritual Center, Inc. currently leases 1200 square feet of
space within a retail shopping mall.
Our major investment in equipment is for computers, furnishings, and technical
equipment. This equipment is owned and has a present value of approximately $30,000.
Parking
Parking facilities are an adequate on-site parking lot
12
Advertising and promotion
Over the past 2 years we have maintained advertising and promotion expenditures at a
minimum of 40% of the annual offerings.
In the projections for 200$, 40% of the annual offerings are reserved for advertising and
promotion goals. High visibility of ministerial presence is for Common Ground Interfaith
Spiritual Center, Inc. of the utmost importance.
Common Ground's promotional plan is diverse and includes a range of marketing
communications. To support its efforts, Common Ground considers using popular media,
such as local TV, radio, newspapers and the Internet to advertise.
It appears that the most successful ministry spends about 40% of its offerings for
promotion and advertising during the first two years of business. Common Ground plans
to continue to spend at least 40% of its offerings during 2008. Based on this decision,
advertising and promotional possibilities were prioritized in order of probable
effectiveness.
Relocation in June 2008-- we will send out introductory press kits to all media, place
printed announcements in key publications; use the Internet, word of mouth, and direct
mail
Ongoing -- during 2008, we intend to use direct mail and active internet presence to
increase visibility of the ministry. Ministers and current financial supporters will be
invited to promote by word-of--mouth and personal invitation.
Futare - we intend to continue active promotion and Internet presence to prospect for
new supporters.
Advertising and promotion goals
The following goals and strategies will be used for the next 2 years and are to be
implemented in a detailed advertising and promotion plan.
1. Increase of supporters
Strategies:
- personal contact
- direct marketing
- local and regional advertising campaigns
2. Development of supporters
Strategies:
- quarterly contribution acknowledgment letters to all supporters
13
-personal contact by ministers
- development of small groups
- invitation to Covenant Fellowship
3. Enhance the ministry name within the local and regional area
Strategies:
- encourage regular supporters to promote the ministry
- issue a monthly newsletter via Internet
- advertise in tazget-market magazines
- keep the press informed
Public relations
Press releases aze issued to local newspapers for inclusion in the religious news
Interfaith ministry gatherings
Ministers attend and participate in interfaith gatherings such as those held in conjunction
with the Human Forum of Alliance for a New Humanity
Ministry conferences and seminars
Common Ground is a member of various organizations and attends conferences,
workshops and seminars.
Print advertising and article publishing
Common Ground Interfaith Spiritual Center, Inc.'s print advertising program includes
advertisements in spiritual publications such as Awareness Magazine, direct mail pieces,
brochures and other print media.
Analysis of the advertising expenditures:
Total advertising expenditures as %40 of the total offerings
The media miz nett year
Media Expenditures.. Frequency
of act Advertisemem
size
News a r $500 Ho' 2i3
Local re ' 'ons news 0 wee 2 columns
Press releases 0 varies varies
Consumer $7204 Bimont6 '/: & full a e
14
ma azine
Di 'tat newsletter 0 Month
Email press releslse 0 la to 2a
Month
Website $200 Da'
Direct mail $2000 Periodic
seasonal 6x9
Point of sale 0 Weekly Powerpoint
Promotion Loo
Advertising team
Own team
Our in-house team is responsible for the media mix.
SWOT ANALYSIS
Our analysis is based on input collected during discussions with ministry consultants,
ministry professionals, supporters, and colleagues. We examine the following critical
topics for Common Ground Interfaith Spiritual Center, Inc.
1. business climate
2. trends in spirituality
3. ministerial styles
4. internal organization
S.political factors
6.stxial factors
Summary of Strengths and Weaknesses
We~l~tea>ses
Business ctima6e There is ao inaeasi~ desire fa These is a huge influerux of
spirituality that is not linked W traditional Rundarr-entalist religan in Orange County
religion
Internal organization The ministerial team is excelkM and well The bulk of responsibility for the ministry
tpralified; with the added btrrefrt of being is born by its two founding monsters.
abk to serve the ministry without taking
much in the way of salary
Political factors There is an increasing awareness of Orange County generally remains
globalization an expansion into diverse politically conservative and may not fuuy
ideologies and cuhtnzs embnwe the inclusiveness and openness
of the vision and mission of Common
Grormd
15
Social factors Common Ground is openly inclusive of all Meeting the spiritual and societal Wads of
races, religions, ethnicities, genders, etc. such a broad spectrum of people can be a
[t honors diversity and nondiscrimin~ion challenge
Economic Common Ground attracts mature 7'hcre are many spiritual organisations
supporters with higher than average and charitable ceases to which supporters
income levels and expendable financial
resources can cantribuh
SWOT: Business climate
Strttn ti'~liit~
Then is an inr.~t+essiog desire for spirituality that is rtot linked to Common Ground carr offer a unique appotUo-i/y for people to
traditiorrd religion experience interfaith spirituality and arclusive spiritual
community
W t~sstes Thrarts
'I1rae is a huge inttoaroe of fimdliat rdigion in tJrange Supporoens could experience discriminatioe
Caarty
SWOT: Internal organization
Strew ~H1
The ministerial team es excellent and will qualified; with the The ministers can develop a core hen of srrppotids who cse
added benefit of being able to serve the ministry withorrt taking assigi with administration of the maristry
much in the way of salary
We~lalcssc~ T~nats
The balk of respongtbility far the ministry is born by its two
ministid~: The ministers could experience poor heahfi and/or bunroot
SWOT: PoliticaVsocial factors
Stren hs - 4 trtanities
Thaw is ao m8 swtrrene~ of gb6ati~tion as exparraion Common Grand can hdp the perception of local acrd
inie diverse ideologies aril wlAues. Common Grormd is opady area tesidems by brmgieg global awaeness of i
inclusive of all racYa, religion, etlmicitics, geadera, ere. a spitidiaiity and ~c~asive minisryy and spiritual rnaunarr~y to the
honors diversity and aondiscrimirtatiorr forefiont
Wes«kaease,~ 'frtbats
Orange County geaaally rearairas potwcatly cons«vative and "Iberz may be resistance rA the vision sod mission of the ministry
may not fully embrace dre indusiverress gad opemrexs of the due to lack of awarratess and tmdersiardirrg of its purpose.
vision and mission of Comnwn Ground. Meeting the spiritual
and societal needs of such a broad spectrum of people coo be a
challenge
SWOT: Economic
Strte rtanities
Common Gtamd attracts mauge supporters with higher dean Comoron Ground can oiler prospective supporters the
to make a difference in the world their
16
average income levels and expendable financial resources consciousness and financial contributions
we>la~~,:~ ~~
There are many spiritual organiz~iorrs aoa chariiabk causes to Supporters could choose to contribute financial resorrrrxs to
which supporters can contribute glamorous o< infartroru causes rather than those that provide
basic subsistence level support
Problems and Possibilities
Problems / Possibilities l
Tl>;> 'ties
Etoaoatk Cori of living m rise cxr>s~ a Spiritual awararess of cor>scioua
pater~ial dec~e in offerings and sense c6aritabk giviu~ can be leased and
of wdl being practiced by anyone regardless of income
level
lateraal organlntioa Success of the ministry is dependent oo Daaorrstr~ion of ~iritual prsdices and
tho strratgth of its founding ministerial spiritual maturity will strengthen the
team ministerial team and be ao excdleat
model for supporbas
E><teraal factors Competitor chruches may suempt W Common Ground's ministry team can
discredit the ministry, its ministers and iLs demoastrgte the highest level of spiritual
mission and vision maturity by practicing the principles of
peactrnahing, inclusiveness,
nadiscrimination and openness, ttrer+eby
providing a model of behavior to
strengthen its supporter base
17
The organizational structure
Management and Team
Senior Minister
Supporters
18
The key team
Aga F.xperierux Highest Salary Date joa~ed
io veers ~~ s
Marrageerent
Glenda Knox 56 23 Bachelor of Religious S1000 morrm Dec 2004
Studies
Stnior Minister
Director
Judy De Preto 6l 23 Bachelor of Religious S 1000 Dec 2004
Executive Minister Studies
monm
Director
Dennis De Preto 65 3g MBA SO Dec 2004
Treasurer
Director
Susan Chamberlain 64 5 Doctorate SO Dec 2004
Earm Minister Religious
Secretary Studies
Director
Stacie Buda 42 3 Religious Studies SO Dec
Ministry Intern Credentialing in process
2004
Director
CiarrY GrowtY
Ministers 50
)rrodeeti~/3rpport
David ~ Clare 3!< 20 BA 50 D~ 2004
Technobgy
Jon Gleason 25 3 BS S200 Dec 2004
Technology monm
RobeR Fief 52 25 BA 51200 Dec 2004
Mt~ici~ ~nonm
Fatuity of Man 5200 Jan
Musician Group month 2005
Marcos Bnllo 5150 Nov
Maintenance Morph 2005
Elicia Hand 5100 Nav
Child Care Momh 2005
Sales ~ Marfutias
Ministers
I.Itssued taeerfaitk
Mhrbtcr
Danell Wheeler 4>! l3 BA 50 p~
19
Common Ground Corona 2004
InterfiitY Miabterial Gadldata
Stacie Buda 3 SO Dec 2004
Nancy Harrison 1 SO Jan 2006
Robert Barnard 3 MA $0 June
2005
Personnel analysis and expenditures 2007
Total number of team 14
Total expenditw~es for team $46,200
Expenditures for the ministerial team $24,000
Expenditures for the support team $22,200
Administratc've organization
The administration is done by the ministry team. They contract with a qualified
bookkeeper to produce the annual profit and loss statement and balance sheet as well as
file a tax return. The day to day bookkeeping is done by computer and an outside
bookkeeping firm.
Contingency
In the event anything might occur that prevents the senior minister from conducting this
ministry the following person will ensure the continuation of the ministry:
Judy De Prete
Information
Common Ground Interfaith Spiritual Center, Inc. has systems in place to provide the
appropriate information needed by the board to make sound financial decisions and to
fulfill IRS requirements.
Accounting principles
The projections have been prepared using generally accepted accounting principles that
Common Ground expects to use when preparing its financial statements.
The ministry's accountant prepazes a management letter containing recommendations for
improvements in the financial operations of the organization. This is reviewed by the
Board of Directors. The report is made avallable to supporters
20
Insurance
Common Ground has suitable insurance coverage which is periodically reviewed to
ensure that the appropriate levels and types of coverage are in place.
- .Fire insurance
- Fire Legal liability insurance
- Liability insurance
- Burglary 8c dishonesty insurance
- Directors and Officers liability
Financial plan
The investment budget
For Common Ground Interfaith Spiritual Center, Inc. it is necessary to further invest in
the ministry. The following budget has been drafted for the period September 2007
through June 2008.
Fixed assets Amount Financing
Leasehold Improvements $20,000
Furniture & fixtures $10,000
Technical equipment $ 5,000
Computer equipment $ 5,000
Miscellaneous $10,000
Fined assets
Furniture, futures and equipment
Current fixtures, furniture and equipment consist of
1. Furniture & Fixtures $8000
2. Sound Equip & Computer $6000
3. Miscellaneous $6000
Total $20,000
21
The depreciation is done using fixed percentage of the book value.
Risk management
Important risks to consider are described below according to internal and external risk
categories. A number of risk factors should be considered:
Common Ground Interfaith Spiritual Center, Inc. is an early stage ministry with a high
dependence on key personnel, and its vision and mission. Successful branding is a key
issue.
- Early stage business. Common Ground has a relatively short operating history. The
Ministry's management team has experience in the areas of ministry and business.
The Company and its prospects must be considered in light of the risks, expenses, and
challenges frequently encountered by ministries in an early stage of development.
- Dependence on key personnel Common Ground's performance is dependent upon
the continued services of its founding ministers. This is of particular importance since
the ministry is relatively young and still undergoing development. Therefore, the
company is highly dependent upon retaining and motivating its team. To offset this
risk, in the future, the company intends to carry akey-man insurance policy on the
ministry team whose loss could have a materially adverse affect on the future of the
ministry.
- Low entry barriers. The ministry is a highly dynamic organization with many facets.
Common Ground expects competition to persist well into the future.
- Maintaining and strengthening the brand Building, strengthening and maintaining
the Common Ground brand is important.
- Risk redaction:
1. Supporters are not attracted as expected
a. improve quality of promotion
b. improve visibility of ministry
2. Entry barrier lower than expected
a. use promotional and marketing strategy to attract more supporters
b. use creativity to promote vision and mission of the ministry
- Internet associated risks
- Technology. The focus on spirituality is constantly undergoing change. Important
factors to consider include: (1) changes in supporters' requirements and preferences
22
- E-commerce. The market for spirituality over the Internet through virtual resources is
anew market. There can be no assurance that acceptance and use will continue to
grow in the future. Moreover, there is no assurance that a broad base of supporters
will continue to adopt the Internet as a medium of spiritual awareness and financial
contributions.
- System failures. Success and the ability to facilitate electronic commerce depend on
the efficient and uninterrupted operation of our Internet connectivity systems.
Common Ground obtains its high-speed Internet access through third party Internet
Service Providers (ISP). ISPs maintain physical and electronic systems that are
vulnerable to failure, damage, or interruption resulting from any number of
possibilities, ranging from earthquakes, floods, fire, loss of power, telecommunication
failures, break-ins, sabotage, vandalism, and similar events. To mitigate this risk, the
ministry will acquire fully redundant systems, a disaster recovery plan, or alternate
ISPs including alternate hosting services. Additionally, Common Ground will carry
sufficient business interruption insurance to compensate for potential losses that may
occur.
23
Timeline
Time table 2007 Start activity Activity finished
September Design Expansion program - 5150,000 gad September 2007
Introduce it to Advisory Team, do CovenmN
Partnas
October 3bd 3 quarhx coatrierrtion
adurowleclgemer~s October 2007
Pbwe Awatene~ Ad praooting holidays
latroduoe Expanion progran to spirited
caormunity
God 525,000 by e~ of month
November Hold 4t6 quarter spiridrd community social November 2007
(3a Amtivessary Celebration)
Coatiaue to promote Expansion Program
Goal 550,000 by e~ of momh
Deoembar Fl1oW Christmas Socid Docardia 2007
Seed Year-End tax d~h'b1e charitably
l9v~I~fcr
Pboc Awareness Ad
~~~
Gad 5575,000 by end of momir
January 2008 Send 4 quarto contribution Goal exceeded by 526,000 as of Janrery
aclmowledg~ 2008
Covenant Dedicxliorr I.ocaiioa negotiations in process.
Promote Expansion program
Goal 5100,000 by end of month
Search for new facility
February PLoe Awatear~a Ad
Praoote Ptr~raa
God 5125,000 by es,d of maw
Socae rtew locatiad
Wodr with Taal 6or ag applicable
March Promo6e Expensioa ~
Goal S150,000 by end of morrth
Design new facility
Get cost estimates Obtain contractors
Obtdn permiLc, etc
April Sand 1 quartaer coatributiae
acknovvledgemetrts Place Awarene~ Ad
Build-apt nevr fac~7ity
24
May Complete build~ut
Plan move
Relocate
June Pisa Grand Opeamg
25
Appendices
• Proposed Schedule
• Proposed Use of Space at 14051 Suite H, Newport Avenue, Tustin, Ca
26
~~~,verend Gfendo H,~~->z
reverend 1u~1~1 ~aPr>,t~
Apri17, 2008
City of Tustin
300 Centennial Way
Tustin, CA 92780
Atten: Ryan Swiontek, Associate Planner
RE: COMMENTS & CORRECTIONS
FOR CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT 08-005
Pertaining to Exhibit A,1.2, 1.3 and 3.1
1.2 Days and hours of operation for all activities
- "9
i ~~€~rt, ~(3sldC!'1I 'i~~3r
RECEIVED
APR 1 ~ Z~8
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
Br
Retail:
• Retail operations include bookstore/gift store sales. Our retail component
will generally operate 4 days a week, Tuesday through Friday, 10 am to 9
pm. Saturday, 10 am to 8 pm, and Sundays from 10 am to 2 pm. The
bookstore will not be open for sales during regulazly scheduled assembly
use of the facility; however it will be open before and after such assembly
use.
Services:
• Services, described as Assembly Use, aze held on Saturday evenings from
6 pm to 7 pm and Sundays from 10:30 am to 11:30 am. In addition, a
meditation service is held on Sunday mornings from 9:30 am to 10 am.
• Additional special services aze regularly held during holiday seasons.
Good Friday service is held from 7 pm to 8 pm. Thanksgiving Eve service
is held from 7 pm to 8 pm. Christmas Eve service is held from 5 pm to 6
pm. New Yeaz's Eve service is held from 5 pm to 6 pm.
• Twice a yeaz, one Sunday in the months of January and 3uly, we regularly
hold a dedication service from 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm.
• For the purpose of pazking, maximum intensity usage generally will be
during periods of time when other businesses in the center are closed.
~~ ~ z 3 0 , ~;,~;1
~~;5 _ ~ ~;~.' uww embr~s<ehu;-~n,~it~.rnm
(~c;verend Gl~nd~ FSi~c7x
reverend Judo Dehrete
Childcare:
~~c~~r~~
~~-_ _ _~-
r'~i ~ ~~=`erfc~ith Sp;rituaf Canter
• Childcaze will be a compliment to our other activities. Unless there is an
adult oriented activity taking place there will be no children on site. In
general, the most likely hours of operation for childcare will be during
regularly scheduled services.
Classes:
• Classes and activities are held throughout the day and evening, generally
up to 7 days a week. Hours of classes and events span the course of the
day and evening. Classes generally do not start before 10 am and always
conclude no later than 9 pm. Classes are consistently held from 7 pm to 9
pm, Mondays through Fridays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 10 am
through 12 pm and Fridays from 12 pm to 2 pm. Because a wide variety of
interests is accommodated, attendance at individual classes and events
tends to range from 3 or 4 people up to 18 people. In general, the average
attendance is approximately 10 people or less at most classes and events.
• Classes and events include such things as spiritual cinema, book studies,
yoga/tai chi/meditation/ete, art expression, spiritual tradition studies,
women's groups, outreach planning, ministry & leadership training, and
guest speakers. In general, only one class or event takes place during any
single period of time.
1.3 New Operations
Childcare:
• Common Ground currently does not offer childcare services because we
have very few children in attendance and no space to provide childcare. In
our new location we anticipate providing appropriate childcare for young
children who may accompany their parents to services. We anticipate
childcare service to be very limited. We do not anticipate general
childcare other than as a compliment to regularly scheduled services.
Childcare service will be a new operation for us.
Classroom Use:
• We have no classrooms at our current location. We use our only assembly
space for all events and classes as well as services. When we relocate to
.. , _ ~ 0273;
a ~. '-i-`. S ." ~,t~ a;~uiu..ambr~~eh>>,nar~it~.cnm
U ~ ~ '~.~
our new facility, we anticipate using a dedicated classroom for classes and
events rather than our `sanctuary.' There will be no substantial change in
operation. There will simply be a different use of space.
3.1 Redevelopment Agency - 5out6 Central Project Area
Commercial Revitalization:
A. For the past two years we have been excellent tenants in a Tustin
retail center known as Larwin Square. Our presence there has
enhanced the overall appeal of the center.
B. Common Ground's presence in the Tustin Freeway Center will
spur commercial revitalization within the South Central Project
Area. Our operation will contribute to economic growth within the
area.
C. Our current retail sales operation takes place in less than 60 square
feet. At this time, retail sales are primarily a compliment to our
general operation and are slightly profitable. With the move to our
new site, it is our intention to greatly increase our retail sales
operations to create a steady revenue stream. This increase in sales
operation will create new employment opportunities. Sales tax
from operation of retail sales will strengthen the City of Tustin's
financial base.
D. Because of our uniqueness, our type of operation is commonly
referred to as a `destination church', meaning, not only do we
attract people from the local area but we also attract people from
surrounding areas. People currently make it a point to travel to
Tustin to attend our services, events and classes as well as shop in
our bookstore. We attract people from both north and south Orange
County, Riverside County and the Los Angeles area. These people
patronize local Tustin restaurants, coffee houses, service stations,
and retail shops while in the area.
E. It is our intention to occupy approximately 5000 square feet of
space at the site. It has previously been vacant for an extended
period of time. Our occupancy constitutes a significant
rejuvenation of that portion of the center and will help reverse the
economic decline of the center in general.
F. The site is located immediately adjacent to Santa Ana (I-S)
Freeway and Newport Avenue. As such, it is barely within the
-. k i ~,1'u~u.',:nbrnr,3~ti,rncynit~}.;:arn
..:,.
;;
~ ~ ~ ~ ~i
rc~ ~ r~
~ -
~. Y ~
i~~~ar-,nd 1ud.,~ I~et~~~te '~tt'Ct~`~Itfl 's('Iti1t, 11 r >f
redevelopment area described as the South Central Project Area. It
is located at the northernmost outer perimeter.
G. The site known as Tustin Freeway Center has had a significant
vacancy factor for several years. At the present time only a few of
the available spaces are actually occupied. We have signed a 5-
yeaz lease with two 5-yeaz options to renew. We intend to
continue our presence in Tustin as a viable and significant asset to
the quality of life in the City.
H. In order to remove some use restrictions on the property, the
property owner has previously provided to the City a list of retail
operations that have failed at the Tustin Freeway Center. The list,
which should be on record with the City, was compiled using old
business licenses as the source of information.
I. According to the property owner, the center is not a retail shopping
center due to its layout on the property. It is better suited to
destination uses such as schools, offices, medical clinics, and our
proposed use. The center was vacant for almost two years while it
was marketed as a retail center, and once the property owner was
able to market to non-retail uses, leases were signed for the
majority of the spaces. We have been advised that the current
retail businesses, the Game Room and the tropical fish store, are
both closing and leaving the premises due to lack of business.
J. Our proposed operation will constitute an enhancement to the
center, to the South Central Project Area and to the City of Tustin.
We will help promote, improve, stimulate, and rejuvenate an
otherwise declining area.
:' 1 = -) ~ ~~ z ~ 'dJ ~St L ,°O LT C~IiY asl ~npnfk~).~: i?!71
Additional explanation for:
Nursery and Toddler Rooms:
Both of these spaces aze the accessories to the Sanctuary.
Common Ground provide this service , so the young mothers with babies and toddlers can participate
in the service or classes. (1) adult volunteer will supervise ea. room.
'The operation, only when there is an activity (either service or classes)
ATTACHMENT C
PANNING COMMISSION RESOLUTION NO. 4092
RESOLUTION N0.4092
A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE
CITY OF TUSTIN, APPROVING CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT 08-
005 AUTHORIZING THE ESTABLISHMENT OF A SPIRITUAL
CENTER WITH A BOOKSTORE AND SERVICES INCLUDING
CHILDCARE, CLASSES AND SANCTUARY WITHIN AN
EXISTING 4,685 SQUARE FOOT TENANT SPACE LOCATED AT
14051 NEWPORT AVENUE SUITE H IN THE TUSTIN FREEWAY
CENTER.
The Planning Commission does hereby resolve as follows:
I. The Planning Commission finds. and determines as follows:
A. A proper application, Conditional Use Permit 08-005, was filed by Judy
Deprete of Common Ground Interfaith Spiritual Center, Inc. requesting
authorization to establish and operate a spiritual center with a
bookstore and services including childcare, classes, and sanctuary
within an existing 4,685 square foot tenant space located at 14051
Newport Avenue, Suite H.
B. The General Plan Community Commercial land use designation and
the Tustin Freeway Center Planned Community Regulations provide
for a variety of commercial and office uses. In addition, the project has
been reviewed for consistency with the Air Quality Sub-element of the
City of Tustin General Plan and has been determined to be consistent
with the Air Quality Sub-element.
C. That a church use within the Tustin Freeway Center requires approval
of a Conditional Use Permit.
D. That a public hearing was duly called, noticed, and held for said
application on May 27, 2008, by the Planning Commission.
E. That the establishment, maintenance, and operation of the proposed
use will not, under the circumstances of this case, be detrimental to the
health, safety, morals, comfort, or general welfare of the persons
residing or working in the neighborhood, nor be injurious or detrimental
to the property and improvements in the neighborhood of the subject
property, or to the general welfare of the City of Tustin in that:
1) The proposed use would be located in an existing 4,685 square
foot tenant space located within a shopping center and, as
conditioned, would not be detrimental to surrounding properties
in that the hours of operation, number of participants, and scope
of operations for the proposed spiritual center with bookstore
would be compatible and consistent with the commercial retail
uses in the center and nearby properties, and all operations
would be conducted inside the building with closed doors.
Resolution No. 4092
Page 2
2) The proposed use is not anticipated to result in parking impacts
since the total number of attendance would be limited to forty-
eight (48) persons based upon the available on-site parking
using the ratio of one (1) parking space for every three (3)
persons, which is the typical ratio used for assembly uses
throughout the City.
3) The proposed use will not be detrimental to the surrounding
properties in that the hours of operation would be from 9:00 a.m.
to 9:00 p.m. daily, which is consistent with the general business
hours of other businesses within the surrounding vicinity.
4) The proposed use offers a retail component, however the
primary function of the business as a spiritual center make it a
destination use that is not dependent upon street frontage
exposure. Prior retail uses have struggled at the subject location
due to the lack of street exposure. This use may also spur
economic interest in the other businesses within the Tustin
Freeway Center as it will draw patrons from a larger area of
Orange County and Tustin that would not otherwise visit the
Tustin Freeway Center.
F. This project is Categorically Exempt pursuant to Section 15301, Class
1 of the California Code of Regulations (Guidelines for the California
Environmental Quality Act).
II. The Planning Commission hereby approves Conditional Use Permit 08-005
authorizing the establishment of a spiritual center with a bookstore and
services including childcare, classes, and sanctuary within an existing 4,685
square foot tenant space located at 14051 Newport Avenue, Suite H.
PASSED AND ADOPTED by the Planning Commission of the City of Tustin at a
regular meeting on the 27"' day of May, 2008.
JOHN NIELSEN
Chairperson
ELIZABETH A. BINSACK
Planning Commission Secretary
Resolution No. 4092
Page 3
STATE OF CALIFORNIA )
COUNTY OF ORANGE )
CITY OF TUSTIN )
I, Elizabeth A. Binsack, the undersigned, hereby certify that I am the Planning
Commission Secretary of the City of Tustin, California; that Resolution No. 4092
was duly passed and adopted at a regular meeting of the Tustin Planning
Commission, held on the 27~' day of May, 2008.
ELIZABETH A. BtNSACK
Planning Commission Secretary
EXHIBIT A
RESOLUTION N0.4092
CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT 0&005
CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL
GENERAL
(1) 1.1 The proposed project shall substantially conform with the submitted plans for
the project date stamped, May 27, 2008, on file with .the Community
Development Department, as herein modified, or as modified by the Director
of Community Development in accordance with this Exhibit. The Director of
Community Development may also approve subsequent minor modifications
to plans during plan check if such modifications are consistent with
provisions of the Tustin City Code.
(1) 1.2 This approval shall become null and void unless the use is established within
twelve (12) months of the date of this Exhibit. Time extensions may be
granted if a written request is received by the Community Development
Department within thirty (30) days prior to expiration.
(1) 1.3 All conditions in this Exhibit shall be complied with subject to review and
approval by the Community Development Department.
(1) 1.4 Approval of Conditional Use Permit 08-005 is contingent upon the applicant
and property owner signing and returning to the Community Development
Department a notarized "Agreement to Conditions Imposed" form and the
property owner signing and recording with the County Clerk-Recorder a
notarized "Notice of Discretionary Permit Approval and Conditions of Approval"
form. The forms shall be established by the Director of Community
Development, and evidence of recordation shall be provided to the Community
Development Department.
(1) 1.5 Any violation of any of the conditions imposed is subject to the payment of a
civil penalty of $100.00 for each violation, or such other amounts as the City
Council may establish by ordinance or resolution, and for each day the violation
exists, subject to the applicable notice, hearing, and appeal process as
established by the City Council ordinance.
SOURCE CODES
(1) STANDARD CONDITION (5) RESPONSIBLE AGENCY REQUIREMENT
(2) CEQA MITIGATION (6) LANpSCAPING GUIDELINES
(3) UNIFORM BUILDING CODES (7) PC/CC POLICY
(4) DESIGN REVIEW '"`~'` EXCEPTION
Exhibit A
Resolution No. 4092
Page 2
(1) 1.6 As a condition of approval of Conditional Use Permit 08-005, the applicant shall
agree, at its sole cost and expense, to defend, indemnify, and hold harmless
the City, its officers, employees, agents, and consultants, from any claim,
action, or proceeding brought by a third party against the City, its officers,
agents, and employees, which seeks to attack, set aside, challenge, void, or
annul an approval of the City Council, the Planning Commission, or any other
decision-making body, including staff, concerning this project. The City agrees
to promptly notify the applicant of any such claim or action filed against the City
and to fully cooperate in the defense of any such action. The City may, at its
sole cost and expense, elect to participate in defense of any such action under
this condition.
(1) 1.7 The applicant shall be responsible for costs associated with any necessary
code enforcement action, including attorney fees, subject to the applicable
notice, hearing, and appeal process as established by the City Council by
ordinance.
(1) 1.8 Conditional Use Permit 08-005 may be reviewed annually or more often, if
deemed necessary by the Community Development Department, to ensure
compatibility with the area and compliance with the conditions contained
herein.
BUILDING DIVISION
(3) 2.1 At the time of building permit application, the plans shall comply with the latest
State and the City Tustin adopted Codes: 2007 California Building Code (CBC),
2007 California Mechanical Code (CMC), 2007 California Plumbing Codes
(CPC), 2007 California Electrical Code (CEC), California Title 24 Accessibility
Regulations, 2005 Title 24 Energy Regulations, City Orciinances, and State and
Federal laws and regulations 2005 Edition.
At the time of plan submittal provide:
Seven (7) set of plans including building, electrical, mechanical, and
plumbing plans.
Two sets of structural calculations (when applicable).
Two sets of Title 24 energy calculations for outdoor lighting (when
applicable}.
(3) 2.2 Prior to permit issuance, clearances from Orange County Fire Authority, is
required.
Exhibit A
Resolution No. 4092
Page 3
(3) 2.3 Vehicle parking, primary entrance (s) to the site and building, the primary
paths of travel, .reception space, sanitary facilities, drinking fountain, and public
telephones shall be accessible to persons with disabilities and shall be shown
on the plans.
(3) 2.4 Parking for disabled persons shall be provided with an additional five (5) foot
loading area with striping and ramp; disabled persons shall be able to park
and access the building without passing behind another car. At least one (1)
accessible space shall be van accessible served by a minimum 96 inch wide
loading area.
(1) 2.5 Prior to issuance of any building/grading permit when the valuation of work is
$50,000 or greater, the applicant shall complete the Construction 8~
Demolition Debris Project Waste Management Plans and submit for review
and approval by the City of Tustin Public Works Department.
At least 50 percent of the construction debris shall be diverted from landfill to
the recycling plants. A security deposit in the amount equal to 5% of the
project valuation will be collected prior to issuance the permit.
Prior to final inspection, the applicant shall submit to the City of Tustin Public
Works Department documents (i.e. receipt from vendor) showing actual
weight or volume of each material of C&D diverted to the recycling center.
For any questions or concerns, please contact the Public Works Department
at (714) 573-3105.
(1) 2.6 Prior to issuance of any permits, payment shall be made for all applicable fees,
including but not limited to, the following:
• Building and Planning Plan Check and Permit Fees
• Orange County Fire Authority Fees
USE RESTRICTIONS
(~`) 3.1 The use of the tenant space shall be limited to a spiritual center with a
bookstore and services including childcare, classes, and sanctuary. Any
modifications to the business operations or the site plan are subject to review
and approval by the Community Development Director.
(***) 3.2 The maximum number of clients and instructors within the facility shall be
forty-eight (48) persons based upon the available amount of parking in the
center, at a ratio of one (1) parking space per three (3) persons. The
property owner or business owner may submit a written request, with
supporting documentation warranting an increase in the number of persons,
Exhibit A
Resolution No. 4092
Page 4
to the Community Development Director for an administrative amendment to
the Conditional Use Permit.
(1) 3.3 The hours of operation for the spiritual center and bookstore may be from
9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. daily. Any change to the hours of operation shall be
reviewed by the Community Development Department and may be approved
if no adverse impacts are anticipated.
(1) 3.4 All required exit doors and path shall remain open and unobstructed during
business hours.
(1) 3.5 The property shall be maintained in a safe, clean, and sanitary condition at
all times. The applicant and the property owner shall be responsible for the
daily maintenance and up-keep of the facility, including but not limited to,
trash removal and maintenance of the facility.
(1) 3.6 All activities shall be located entirely within the enclosed building. No
congregation and/or loitering outside the building shall be permitted.
(1) 3.7 If a noise or parking problem is observed by a representative of the City, the
applicant shall submit a study prepared by a professional noise or traffic
engineer and perform or install interim and permanent mitigation measures.
(''~'"') 3.6 Childcare services shall be held in conjunction with assembly uses and are
provided for the sole use of parents attending services. Parents of the
children shall remain on the premises at all times while their children are
being cared for. A separate childcare business or nursery school shall be
prohibited.
ORANGE COUNTY FIRE. AUTHORITY
(1) 4.1 Prior to the issuance of a building permit the applicant shall submit plans for
any modification or addition to any existing automatic fire sprinkler system in
any structure to the Fire Chief for review and approval. Please contact the
OCFA at (714) 573-6100 for additional information.
(1) 4.2 Prior to the issuance of a building permit the applicant shall submit plans for
any modification or addition to any existing fire alarm system in any structure to
the Fire Chief for review and approval. Please contact the OCFA at (714) 573-
6100 for additional information.
(1) 4.3 Prior to the issuance of a building permit the applicant shall submit architectural
plans for review and approval of the Fire Chief if required per the "Orange
County Fire Authority Plan Submittal Criteria Form". Please contact the OCFA
at (714) 573-6100 for a copy of the Site/Architectural Notes to be placed on
plans prior to submittal.
Exhibit A
Resolution No. 4092
Page 5
FEES
(2J 5.1 Within forty-eight (48) hours of approval of the subject project, the applicant
shall deliver to the Community Development Department, a cashier's check
payable to the COUNTY CLERK in the amount of fifty dollars ($50.00) to
enable the City to file the appropriate environmental documentation for the
project. If within such forty-eight (48) hour period that applicant has not
delivered to the Community Development Department the above-noted
check, the statute of limitations for any interested party to challenge the
environmental determination under the provisions of the California
Environmental Quality Act could be significantly lengthened.