HomeMy WebLinkAboutPC Minutes 11-12-96MINUTES
TUSTIN PLANNING COMMISSION
REGULAR MEETING
NOVEMBER 12, 1996
CALL TO ORDER:
7:02 p.m., City Council Chambers
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE:
Commissioner Dave Vandaveer
INVOCATION:
Tustin Police Chaplain,
Rev. Dane Counts
ROLL CALL:
Commissioners
Present:
Lou Bone, Chairman
Dave Vandaveer, Chairman, Pro-Tem
Steve Kozak
Howard Mitzman (arrived at 7:28 p.m.)
Leslie Pontious
Staff
Present:
Elizabeth A. Binsack, Director
Lois Bobak, Deputy City Attorney
Doug Anderson, Transportation Engineer
Daniel Fox, Senior Planner
Sara Pashalides, Associate Planner
Karen Peterson, Assistant Planner
Kathy Martin, Recording Secretary
PUBLIC CONCERNS:
(Limited to 3 minutes per person for items not
on the agenda.)
No one addressed the Commission.
CONSENT CALENDAR:
(ALL MATTERS LISTED UNDER CONSENT CALENDAR ARE
CONSIDERED ROUTINE AND WILL BE ENACTED BY ONE
MOTION. THERE WILL BE NO SEPARATE DISCUSSION
OF THESE ITEMS PRIOR TO THE TIME OF THE VOTING
ON THE MOTION UNLESS MEMBERS OF THE
COMMISSION, STAFF OR PUBLIC REQUEST SPECIFIC
ITEMS TO BE DISCUSSED AND/OR REMOVED FROM THE
CONSENT CALENDAR FOR SEPARATE ACTION.)
1. Minutes of the October 28, 1996 Planninq Commission Meetinq.
Siqn Code Exception 96-002/Amendment to Siqn Code Exception
95-007
PROPERTY:
OWNER
APPLICANT:
LOCATION:
ZONING:
ENVIRONMENTAL
STATUS:
REQUEST:
EMS DEVELOPMENT COMPANY (ENDERLE CENTER)
14081 SO. YORBA STREET, SUITE 107
TUSTIN, CA. 92780
ATTN: ED SOLTIS
PROMOTIONAL SIGNS
22552 MUIRLANDS BLVD.
LAKE FOREST, CA 92630
ATTN: MALCOLM HALE
14081 YORBA STREET
PLANNED COMMUNITY COMMERCIAL (PC-COMM)
THIS PROJECT HAS BEEN DETERMINED TO BE
CATEGORICALLY EXEMPT (CLASS 11) PURSUANT TO SECTION
15311 OF THE CALIFORNIA EQUALITY ACT (CEQA)
TO EXPAND AN EXISTING CENTER IDENTIFICATION WALL
SIGN FOR ENDERLE CENTER FROM 75 SQUARE FEET TO 119
Planning Commission Minutes
November 12, 1996
Page 2
SQUARE FEET; TO ALLOW EXPOSED NEON SIGNS; AND TO
AMEND CONDITION NO. 1.6 OF SIGN CODE EXCEPTION 95-
007.
Recommendation - That the Planning Commission adopt Resolution No.
3493 approving Sign Code Exception 96-002.
Commissioner Pontious moved, Vandaveer seconded, to approve the
Consent Calendar. Motion carried 4-0. Commissioner Mitzman was
absent for this vote.
PUBLIC HEARINGS:
3. Conditional Use Permit 96-025/Amendment No.3 to Use Permit
85-9
APPLICANT: WAHOO'S FISH TACO
3518 LAKE CENTER DRIVE, SUITE C
SANTA ANA, CA 92704
ATTN: EDUARDO LEE
OWNER: A.U.D. CORPORATION
111 W. OCEAN BLVD, #1360
LONG BEACH, CA 90802
OWNER'S AGENT: HOLLIS & ASSOCIATES, INC
4676 BARRANCA PKWY
IRVINE, CA 92640
ATTN: AMANDA FRANSEN
LOCATION: 13791 NEWPORT AVENUE, TUSTIN PLAZA
13681 - 13891 NEWPORT AVENUE
PLANNED COMMUNITY COMMERCIAL (PC-C)
ZONING:
ENVIRONMENTAL
STATUS:
REQUEST:
THIS PROJECT HAS BEEN DETERMINED TO BE
CATEGORICALLY EXEMPT (CLASS 3 & 11) PURSUANT TO
PROVISIONS OF SECTION 15303 AND 15311 OF THE
CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT.
AUTHORIZATION FOR THE ON-SITE SALE OF BEER AND WINE
(ABC LICENSE TYPE "41") FOR CONSUMPTION ON THE
PREMISES AND MODIFICATION OF SHARED PARKING PROGRAM
TO ACCOMMODATE ADDITIONAL RESTAURANT SEATING.
Recommendation - That the Planning Commission adopt Resolution No.
3494 approving Conditional Use Permit 96-025 authorizing the on-
site sale of beer and wine in conjunction with a restaurant and
amending CUP 85-009 establishing the shared parking program for
Tustin Plaza to allow additional restaurant seating in the center.
Chairman Bone opened the Public Hearing at 7:06 p.m.
Presentation: Sara Pashalides, Associate Planner
Commissioner Kozak inquired if Condition 2.15, requiring designated
employee parking, was a standard condition for other tenants in the
shopping center.
Sara Pashalides responded that the condition is not a standard
condition, but is suggested for this proposal to ensure there is
sufficient parking.
Commissioner Kozak suggested that staff encourage the property
owner to have all employees park in the back of the center; and,
asked if pedestrian walkways are marked to prohibit skateboarding.
Commissioner Bone indicated that the retail buildings have plaques
prohibiting skateboarding.
Planning Commission Minutes
November 12, 1996
Page 3
Commissioner Vandaveer inquired if Condition 2.3
required of a restaurant tenant.
Sara Pashalides responded that Condition 2.3 is
condition for ABC licenses related to restaurant uses.
is usually
a standard
Commissioner Vandaveer asked why the tenant has to prepare the food
on premises.
Sara Pashalides noted that within Planning Commission Resolution
No. 3366, which is the Alcoholic Beverage Sales Establishments
Guidelines, Subsection B identifies that the menu Of the restaurant
shall consist of foods that are prepared on the premises.
Eduardo Lee, applicant, stated that Wahoo's is looking forward to
doing business in Tustin.
Commissioner Pontious inquired where the other Wahoo's locations
were.
Eduardo Lee stated that there are restaurants in Huntington Beach,
Laguna Beach, two in Costa Mesa, one in Lake Forest, and one in
Denver which opened several months ago.
Chairman Bone closed the Public Hearing at 7:16 p.m.
Commissioner Kozak moved, Pontious seconded, to approve Conditional
Use Permit 96-025 by adopting Resolution No. 3494. Motion carried
4-0. Commissioner Mitzman was absent for this vote.
4. Conditional Use Permit 96-033/Amendment to Use Permit 69-300
APPLICANT:
TENANT:
LOCATION:
ZONING:
SARA BARNETT
14031 UTT DRIVE
TUSTIN, CA 92780
PACIFIC AUTO PARTS
125 WEST MAIN STREET
TUSTIN, CA 92780
125 WEST MAIN STREET
CENTRAL COMMERCIAL - PARKING AND CULTURAL RESOURCE
OVERLAY DISTRICTS (C2 - P & CR)
ENVIRONMENTAL
STATUS: THIS PROJECT HAS BEEN DETERMINED TO BE
CATEGORICALLY EXEMPT (CLASS 1) PURSUANT TO THE
PROVISIONS OF SECTION 15301 OF THE CALIFORNIA
ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT.
REQUEST: AUTHORIZATION TO PERMIT OUTDOOR STORAGE OF TWO
METAL STORAGE CONTAINERS AND THREE MILITARY
VEHICLES.
Recommendation - That the Planning Commission:
1. Conduct a public hearing;
2. Provide direction on the alternative courses of action; and,
o
Continue the matter to the November 25, 1996 meeting to allow
staff to prepare the appropriate Resolution based upon the
direction provided by the Commission.
Chairman Bone opened the Public Hearing at 7:17 p.m.
Presentation: Sara Pashalides, Associate Planner
Planning Commission Minutes
November 12, 1996
Page 4
Commissioner Vandaveer abstained noting he has property within 300
feet of the project.
The Director noted that the Planning Commission may not have the
ability to preclude the vehicles from being stored on the property
via the Conditional Use Permit process. The question is whether or
not they should be stored in the interior or the exterior. If
stored on the exterior, the Commission should determine how many
and how the vehicles should be stored. The vehicles could be
stored inside of a structure on-site. However, if the Uniform
Building Code precluded inside storage, the applicant may be
required to construct fire rated walls or other building
improvements to provide division between the various occupancies.
Staff has not studied that issue because this alternative was not
proposed or desired by the applicant.
Commissioner Kozak asked why the item was being presented to the
Commission without a staff recommendation.
The Director stated that the code is not clear as to whether or not
this is considered outdoor storage. The vehicles are not licensed
and the bins are not considered structures under the Uniform
Building Code. The Commission should make a determination as to
whether or not the location of these military vehicles is ancillary
to the use and if it is appropriate for them to be stored outside.
Staff wanted to provide the Commission with as many options as
possible.
Commissioner Pontious asked why the military vehicles could not be
stored in the back parking area along with the other bin.
Sara Pashalides noted that access could be difficult because there
is an existing building on the east side of the access drive and a
masonry wall on the west side.
The Director noted that the adjacent property owners may have
concerns about what they would be viewing. The applicant
advertises the tanks in association with his business and
appreciates the visibility from Main Street.
Commissioner Bone noted that he viewed the location and spoke to
Vince Conner, the owner of Pacific Auto Parts. He inquired if
there was approval for the bin located on the east side of the
building.
The Director stated that these bins are not regulated by the
Uniform Building Code and are not specifically addressed in the
zoning regulations.
Commissioner Bone noted that there were no "No Parking" signs at
the rear gate and there was a truck parked in the middle of the
City-owned alley. He would like to see the police patrol the area
and ticket vehicles for this violation.
Sara Barnett, applicant, 14031 Utt Drive, stated that Mr. Conner
did ask if he could move the storage container on-site and had
requested a permit. She stated that staff told him a permit was
not necessary. She also noted that there have been military
vehicles at this location before Mr. Conner had the tanks on site
and one tank with the large gun turret has been on-site for six
years. She did not know why the tanks have become an issue.
Commissioner Bone inquired about the length of time a van has been
parked at the site and whether it would be moved.
Planning Commission Minutes
November 12, 1996
Page 5
Sara Barnett stated she planned to move the van, and noted that the
trailer in the back is registered and is for sale.
Commissioner Bone noted the negative appearance due to the junk and
debris located at the rear of the site.
Sara Barnett agreed that the back area needed to be cleaned.
Commissioner Bone asked the age of the three military vehicles.
Lisa Conner, manager of Pacific Auto Parts, noted that the smaller
tank was built in 1947, the large black tank with wheels was built
in 1973, and the other large tank was built in 1941.
Sara Barnett was concerned about the requirement to install metal
bollards against the property to the north and east. She stated
that cement buffers are next to the building and she would be happy
to install cement buffers on the other side where the tanks are
parked.
Commissioner Bone indicated that cement buffers would be
sufficient.
Sara Barnett referred to Condition No. 3 requiring safety
mechanisms. She noted that the small tank when backed up cannot be
entered. The large tank cannot be entered if the turret is turned
the opposite way.
Commissioner Bone inquired if there were locks on the tanks.
Sara Barnett answered affirmatively. She noted that a key is
required to start them. Vince Conner has other safety mechanisms
he does not want publicly disclosed.
Sara Barnett noted the request for a sign to be placed on the
existing rolling metal gate within the parking area. She stated
that there is no problem with parking.
Sara Barnett referred to the parking lot being resurfaced. She
stated that the parking lot is in good condition, but she would be
willing to restripe the lot.
Sara Barnett noted that the rear of the property will be cleaned.
She stated only one bin would be needed to store the materials
currently stored in the rear.
The Director noted that a building permit is not required for those
storage bins. There is a distinction between the building
permitting process and the planning permitting process. The bin
requires the Planning Commission's consideration because it was
placed in an approved parking lot area for the original Pacific
Auto Parts and was not considered as part of the original use
permit. This matter is coming to light at this point because there
have been complaints regarding the storage of the vehicles and the
bin on site. There was also concern related to safety of the
storage of the vehicles on site. She stated that the Commission
must make findings to approve or deny the request. The Commission
can require these conditions as part of their discretionary review.
If the Commission does not feel they can make the findings to
support these conditions, she suggested that they either be deleted
or modified.
Planning Commission Minutes
November 12, 1996
Page 6
Dewayne Oqelvie, 3952 Capri Ave., Irvine, employee of Pacific Auto
Parts, spoke in favor of the project and stated that in the last
three years, while delivering parts no one has ever said anything
negative about the tanks. The tanks are a source of pride.
Arnold Surfas, owner of Surfas Furriers, 365 E1 Camino Real, spoke
in favor of the project and stated he finds the military tanks to
be positive for the area and are needed in the downtown because
they are unique to the area. He stated that parking is not a
problem, the military vehicles are parked far enough to the rear of
the lot, the containers are on private property, and the request
should be approved.
Ernie Chinq, attorney, 210 W. Main Street, spoke in favor of the
project and stated that the tanks bring a sense of community to the
Old Town area. He stated that putting up a barrier to shield the
tanks would be a tragedy.
DouHlas Earle, 1414 N. Huron, owner of Wooden Indian Barber Shop,
stated that in the six years that the tanks have been there, they
have been a great conversation piece. He has only heard positive
comments and hopes the tanks will continue to be visible.
Robert Grey, 13851 Eton Place, Santa Ana spoke in favor of the
project and stated he does not think there should be a concern
about the tanks and indicated the project should be approved.
Commissioner Bone stated that the military vehicles are good for
the downtown area and will complement the City's upcoming 70th
birthday. He stated: Alternative A should be retained but
modified; the storage containers should be painted the same as the
building; cement bumpers should be installed to prohibit the
military vehicles from running into the building; the wall signs
are sufficient; the placement of a screen on the front of the fence
should not be required; safety mechanisms should be required; no
more than three vehicles should be parked on the lot at any one
time; and, the rear yard area should be cleaned.
Commissioner Pontious stated that the applicant should work out
safety mechanism issues with the Police Department.
Commissioner Kozak stated that he agrees with the other
Commissioner's comments and would like to see the bin next to the
military vehicles moved to the rear of the property.
Lisa Conner stated that the bin in the front next to the vehicles
contains auto parts and it is imperative that the bin stay where it
is until arrangements can be made with Mrs. Barnett to move their
operation indoors.
Sara Barnett stated the bin that is along the side will not fit in
the back. She agreed that the back needs to be cleaned.
The Director reiterated the Commission's desired action and related
conditions and recommended that the item be continued. She
indicated staff would work with the applicant and property owner to
develop a resolution for consideration at the next Planning
Commission meeting. She stated that parking in the alley to the
north can be addressed independently of this Conditional Use
Permit.
The Public Hearing closed at 8:10 p.m.
Planning Commission Minutes
November 12, 1996
Page 7
Commissioner Pontious moved, Mitzman seconded, to continue the item
to the November 25, 1996 meeting and directed staff to prepare a
resolution of approval for Conditional Use Permit 96-033/Amendment
to Use Permit 69-300. Motion carried 4-0. Commissioner Vandaveer
abstained.
5. Conditional Use Permit 96-035
APPLICANT:
PROPERTY
OWNER:
LOCATION:
ZONING:
ENVIRONMENTAL
STATUS:
REQUEST:
DINA LEE
12262 NEWPORT AVENUE
SANTA ANA, CA 92705
ROLF ENGEN
950 W. PACIFIC COAST HIGHWAY
NEWPORT BEACH, CA 92663
1021 IRVINE BOULEVARD
RETAIL COMMERCIAL DISTRICT (C-l)
THIS PROJECT HAS BEEN DETERMINED TO BE
CATEGORICALLY EXEMPT (CLASS 1) PURSUANT TO
THE PROVISIONS OF SECTION 15301 OF THE CALIFORNIA
ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT.
TO ESTABLISH A FORTUNE TELLING USE IN AN EXISTING
BUILDING
Recommendation - That the Planning Commission adopt Resolution No.
3496 approving Conditional Use Permit 96-035.
Chairman Bone opened the Public Hearing at 8:12 p.m.
Presentation: Karen S. Peterson, Assistant Planner
Daniel Fox introduced Karen Peterson to the Commission.
Commissioner Pontious asked if it was necessary to continue the
hearing, or if a condition could be added to insure the property
owner's authorization is received.
Lois Bobak noted that a use is being established for the site;
therefore, procedurally it would be better to have all of the
necessary elements of a proper application in place and to have the
consent of the property owner before the Commission takes action on
the project. She stated that the Commission should invite members
of the public to offer comments at this point if they are not able
to return for the continued public hearing.
Commissioner Vandaveer asked if the Tustin Brewing Company was
considered a tavern.
Daniel Fox stated that the Tustin Brewing Company is licensed as a
restaurant.
Richard W. Raynor attorney for applicant, noted that fortune
telling businesses have been the subject of discrimination. He
stated the property owner has no problem with the use and has given
approval. He asked that Condition No. 1.2 be modified to read that
if written consent is not received, by the City Council hearing
date, the use would be denied.
Planning Commission Minutes
November 12, 1996
Page 8
Lois Bobak responded that this is a Conditional Use Permit for
which the Planning Commission has final decision authority unless
the matter is appealed. Staff is recommending approval of this
application. The sole issue is that the City's zoning and planning
regulations require written authorization from the property owner
before approval of a use at a particular location. She encouraged
the Planning Commission not to consider the application without the
consent of the property owner and to continue the item for two
weeks.
Richard W. Raynor attorney for applicant, stated that no offense
was intended towards the City of Tustin in their regulation of
fortune telling, and he asked if Condition 1.9 could be changed
from 30 days to 60 days.
Commissioner Bone asked if there would be a problem with changing
the condition to 60 days.
The Director indicated that the resolution would be modified.
Commissioner Pontious moved, Vandaveer seconded, to continue the
item to the November 25, 1996 so that written consent could be
obtained from the property owner. Motion carried 5-0.
Amendment No. 2 To Vestinq Tentative Tract Map 14188 and
Desiqn Review 96-041
APPLICANT/
OWNER
LOCATION:
ZONING:
ENVIRONMENTAL
STATUS:
REQUEST:
STANDARD PACIFIC
1565 W. MacARTHUR BLVD.
COSTA MESA, CA 92626
ATTN: PEGGY ROBERTS
TRACT 14188, WEST SIDE OF TOWNSHIP
RAWLINGS WAY
PLANNED COMMUNITY RESIDENTIAL - (LOW
RESIDENTIAL) - EAST TUSTIN SPECIFIC PLAN
DRIVE AT
DENSITY
THIS PROJECT IS COVERED BY A PREVIOUSLY CERTIFIED
EIR (85-2) FOR THE EAST TUSTIN SPECIFIC PLAN. NO
ADDITIONAL DOCUMENTATION IS REQUIRED.
AUTHORIZATION TO ADD TWO (2) NEW SINGLE-STORY
PRODUCTION UNITS TO THE BUILDOUT OF THE EXISTING
RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT
Recommendation - That the Planning Commission:
Adopt Resolution No. 3497 approving the environmental
determination prepared for the project;
Adopt Resolution No. 3498 approving Design Review 96-041; and,
Adopt Resolution No. 3499 recommending that the City Council
approve Amendment No. 2 to Vesting Tentative Tract Map 14188.
Chairman Bone opened the Public Hearing at 8:25 p.m.
Presentation: Daniel Fox, Senior Planner
Commissioner Pontious asked about plans 1, 2 and 3 on the
statistical summary.
Daniel Fox stated that there are four single story homes on the
west side of Lambert. They are identified in red and were
constructed as part of the original phase. The statistical summary
has been updated based upon the existing and the proposed project.
Planning Commission Minutes
November 12, 1996
Page 9
Commissioner Bone asked that a condition be placed in the Design
Review resolution regarding garages being used for parking and not
storage.
Commissioner Mitzman asked if Condition 3.5 would create any
problems with the CCRs.
Daniel Fox stated the
require garage spaces
condition.
code and the East Tustin Specific Plan
be made available and recommended a
David Fell, representing Standard Pacific, stated he has reviewed
staff's report and asked that the Commission approve the project.
Commissioner Bone asked how many of the ten homes on Stanley have
been sold.
David Fell indicated that five of the ten have been sold.
Commissioner Bone asked if all of the owners have been contacted
regarding this modification.
David Fell stated that all of the owners had been contacted.
Commissioner Bone asked the applicant why a change is proposed.
David Fell stated that the two story plans developed and approved
in March of 1995 are different enough in square footage and price
that plotting the originally intended San Rafael single stories
would not effectively complement those two story plans.
Commissioner Bone asked if two story homes were planned for the
area.
David Fell stated that the East Tustin Specific Plan only permits
single story homes along that edge of the project.
Commissioner Pontious moved, Vandaveer seconded, to adopt
Resolution No. 3497 approving the environmental determination
prepared for the project. Motion carried 5-0.
Commissioner Pontious moved, Vandaveer seconded, to close the
public hearing at 8:39 p.m. Motion carried 5-0.
Commissioner Pontious moved, Vandaveer seconded, to adopt
Resolution No. 3498 approving Design Review 96-041 revised as
follows: Exhibit A, Page 3 add Condition No. 3.5 to read:
"Storage of personal items may occur in the garages only to the
extent that vehicles may still be parked within the required garage
spaces." Motion carried 5-0.
Commissioner Pontious moved, Vandaveer seconded, to adopt
Resolution No. 3499 reco~.~.ending that the City Council approve
Amendment No. 2 to Vesting Tentative Tract Map 14188. Motion
carried 5-0.
Planning Commission Minutes
November 12, 1996
Page 10
7. Conditional Use Permit 96-034 and Design Review 96-048
APPLICANT:
PROJECT
PROPONENT:
PROPERTY
OWNERS:
AGENT:
LOCATION:
EDGEWOOD PRIVATE SCHOOL
MS. BARBARA KRULL
12421 NEWPORT AVENUE
SANTA ANA, CALIFORNIA 92705
NANCY F. FEINSTEIN
7665 E. SILVER DOLLAR LANE
ANAHEIM, CALIFORNIA 92808
DONALD GOODELL
17700 CASTLETON STREET
ROWLAND HEIGHTS, CALIFORNIA 91748
ARTHUR R. SMITH
5591 CLUB VIEW DRIVE
YORBA LINDA, CALIFORNIA 92886
TOM JACKSON
LEE & ASSOCIATES
3991 MAC ARTHUR BLVD. SUITE 100
NEWPORT BEACH, CALIFORNIA 92660
200 AND 220 EL CAMINO REAL
ZONING:
ENVIRONMENTAL
STATUS:
REQUEST:
CENTRAL COMMERCIAL - PARKING OVERLAY (C2-P)
CULTUR3tL RESOURCES OVERLAY
THIS PROJECT HAS BEEN DETERMINED TO BE
CATEGORICALLY EXEMPT (CLASS 3, NEW CONSTRUCTION OR
CONVERSION OF SMALL STRUCTURES) PURSUANT TO SECTION
15303 OF THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT
AUTHORIZATION TO ESTABLISH A PRE-SCHOOL
Recommendation That the Planning Commission adopt Resolution No.
3500, approving Conditional Use Permit 96-034 and Design Review 96-
048.
Presentation: Daniel Fox, Senior Planner
Commissioner Vandaveer asked where the students would be dropped
off and picked up.
Daniel Fox stated that the loading area would be located at the
south elevation in the parking lot.
Commissioner Vandaveer asked if there were enough spaces available
for waiting parents.
Daniel Fox stated that the manuevering area will be sufficient.
Parents have to register with the daycare operations and sign
children in and out. The parents will be parked in marked spaces.
Commissioner Bone asked if the eight restricted parking spaces were
restricted all day.
Daniel Fox stated that the eight spaces could be designated during
peak periods of the morning and the evenings. Staff can work with
the applicant to designate those spaces appropriately.
Commissioner Bone stated he envisioned a parking problem.
Commissioner Pontious agreed the parking spaces should be open
during peak hours.
Planning Commission Minutes
November 12, 1996
Page 11
Commissioner Bone wanted clarification that conditions 2.2, 2.3 and
2.4 covered the increase over and above 60 children.
Elizabeth Binsack noted that staff does not have the ability to
waive the parking requirements. A reduction in parking/increase in
enrollment would have to be presented to the Planning Commission or
the Zoning Administrator for consideration.
Elizabeth Binsack stated that if the applicant has the ability to
restripe the existing lot to gain two more spaces, they can
accommodate the desired level of enrollment; or, if they can find
two other spaces within close proximity, the intent of the Planning
Commission's approval would still be met. If the applicant desires
a parking reduction/enrollment increase, then additional
consideration would be necessary.
Barbara Krull, applicant, 1071 Regis Way, owner and operator of the
Edgewood Private School at 12421 Newport Avenue addressed the
Commission.
Commissioner Bone asked what age pre-schoolers start in the school.
Barbara Krull answered 2~ years old.
Commissioner Bone stated he can see the play area accommodating 60
children, but 120 children would be crowded.
Barbara Krull related that usually two classes (24 children) are in
the yard at the same time. The State of California requires 75
square feet of outside play area per child. There are 15,000
square feet in that area.
Commissioner Bone liked the design and thought it would be an
addition to downtown.
Commissioner Vandaveer asked if there was a problem with having a
school within proximity of a bar.
Lois Bobak stated once the school is established a bar or similar
activity cannot be established within a certain number of feet from
an existing school.
Commissioner Bone asked if there was a concern with the noise since
the nearby 1913 restaurant has outdoor seating.
Nancy Feinstein owner, builder stated she is an experienced owner
builder of a medical building, senior center, and 74 apartments.
She selected downtown Tustin because it is a beautiful area with
potential. She obtained the signature of every business on both
sides of the street below and above with the exception of the
office building immediately adjoining.
J.R. Mauro, 13572 Wheeler Place, spoke in favor of the project and
stated that he appreciates the existence of both schools in the
City of Tustin.
Thomas Penna 2310 Diamond Bar Blvd., owner of Salon Gallery, spoke
in favor of the project and stated that the clientele that comes
into the salon brought a lot of business to the surrounding
businesses. Most of the Edgewood School parents are his clients.
Richard Toral 10071 Sunrise Lane, spoke in favor of the project.
Planning Commission Minutes
November 12, 1996
Page 12
Arnold Surfas 365 E1 Camino Real, spoke in favor of the project and
indicated the use of that area is positive for the businesses in
Old Town Tustin.
Cameron Darby, attorney representing the owners of 250 E1 Camino
Real, stated his delight in the continued growth in downtown
Tustin; however, he stated his concerns regarding the original
easement that was granted to 220 E1 Camino Real for parking. He
provided copies of an amendment that was signed on July 30, 1986.
As noted, the easement provides for 15 undesignated parking spaces.
He stated his concerns about the adequacy of the existing parking.
He further stated that he understood that there are future plans to
expand the school to 120 students. He stated that this is beyond
comprehension based on the available parking. He suggested that
the vacant lot at 200 E1 Camino Real be considered for the
additional parking needs of the students and/or patrons. He
indicated that restriping of the parking lot would not be possible
because the lot was designed to accommodate a certain amount of
parking spaces and to simply restripe would not create more space.
Commissioner Bone asked if the 59 parking spaces directly behind
200 and 220 were all shared spaces.
Daniel Fox stated that to be correct and noted the applicant did
not make staff aware of the 1986 amendment to the original parking
easement. City records from 1978 indicate that there were 17
parking spaces allocated to this property. The agreement submitted
to the Planning Commission this evening indicates there are 15
available spaces. The balance of the parking is located in the
downtown area offsite or in lieu fees have been paid which are used
toward the parking structure or some other form of on-street
parking.
Commissioner Bone asked if all the on-street parking would still be
in place.
Daniel Fox answered in the affirmative.
Greq Bennett, architect representing the project, 12821 Newport
Avenue, stated he had been involved in the downtown efforts and
would like to clarify issues related to parking. He stated there
are 15 recorded spaces in the easements and in-lieu spaces are
available in the parking structure. Overall, 26 parking stalls are
available. He stated the applicant misrepresented the employee
count. There will actually be six teachers and one administrator,
thereby reducing the parking count. He would like to limit the
school capacity by dropping the student capacity slightly until
additional parking or additional in lieu of fees can be paid. E1
Camino Real, Main, Third, and other streets in the area can provide
for parking. The building at 250 E1 Camino Real is not fully
leased and his building is not fully leased; therefore, the parking
should be adequate. The frequency of parking is not very high and
the employee count is very low. He pointed out that it is a big
capital infusion to downtown and downtown is in great need of that
infusion. A properly maintained building will benefit the
community and the local neighborhood. He does not anticipate a
parking problem and wants to be a good neighbor with adjacent
property owners.
Commissioner Bone asked if the teacher count was changed to six.
Greq Bennett stated the teacher count was supposed to be six and he
believes by reducing that teacher they can comply with the parking
regulations without coming back before the Commission.
Planning Commission Minutes
November 12, 1996
Page 13
Commissioner Bone asked if there will be two administrators.
Greq Bennett stated there will be one administrator.
Commissioner Bone asked if the six teachers are handling ten
students each.
Greq Bennett stated there would be fewer students because there are
a total of seven employees.
Commissioner Bone asked the teacher student ratio requirement.
Greq Bennett requested Daniel Fox's assistance with the student
ratio.
Daniel Fox stated the requirement for parking is one space for
every eight students.
Greq Bennett stated that occupancy would be reduced to 52 students,
a combination of teachers, the other retailer up front, and one
administrator. This combination brings the project into compliance
with 26 required parking spaces.
Commissioner Bone restated that there would be 48 students and six
teachers.
Greq Bennett stated there would be seven employees and 52 students.
Lois Bobak indicated she felt that Chairman Bone and Mr. Bennett
were referring to two different things.
The Director stated the ratio is one parking space for each staff
member and one loading space for each eight children.
Commissioner Bone asked how many chairs were in the hair salon.
The Director stated that use requires one space for every 200
square feet of gross floor area which is standard and does not vary
depending on the number of chairs.
Commissioner Vandaveer asked if staff was going to modify Condition
3.4 for the openings to the playground.
The Director stated staff is not proposing to modify Condition 3.4.
Commissioner Vandaveer asked about the entrances to the playground
area.
Greg Bennett stated that the properties become merged as one
through an appropriate legal mechanism.
The Director stated Condition 2.7 addresses this specific issue and
requires a legally recordable document binding on both properties
to hold them as one. If this use ceased, the openings at the
property line would have to be reconstructed in compliance with the
Building Code.
Daniel Fox clarified Condition 2.3 and that the code requires
permanent designated parking stalls for the loading and unloading.
The condition could be modified so that the spaces could be posted
for the peak hours only.
Planning Commission Minutes
November 12, 1996
Page 14
Lois Bobak stated the applicant would have to resolve the
reciprocal easement agreement issues with the affected property
owners.
Cameron Darby stated 220 E1 Camino Real has a reciprocal easement
to use 15 undesignated spaces and there should be no bearing on the
capacity or occupancy ratios of the 250 E1 Camino Real property.
Mr. Darby noted that his clients were not approached by the owners
of 220 E1 Camino Real regarding designated spaces for loading and
unloading of students. He stated the temporary loading and
unloading designation exceeds the limits of the reciprocal
easement. He would like a thorough investigation and study be done
for the availability of parking for 220 E1 Camino Real to determine
the feasibility of their proposal.
Commissioner Bone stated there are fifteen spaces dedicated and
eight of those fifteen would be affected.
Commissioner Pontious inquired as to how the spaces are designated
to each property.
Cameron Darby stated the easement allows for fifteen undesignated
spaces. If the all spaces are not available for parking, 250 E1
Camino Real would have insufficient parking to support the uses.
Commissioner Pontious stated an amendment to the easement would be
appropriate and a condition added so that if there is a problem, a
study would be initiated.
Lois Bobak stated the Tustin City Code requires that there be
parking for loading and unloading for pre-schools. The City can
not require that the adjacent property owner amend the reciprocal
easement. If the adjacent property owner chooses not to do so,
then the pre-school cannot satisfy the conditions of approval and
the approval would become null and void. How they satisfy the code
requirements is up to the property owners, not the Commission.
Scott Sino, 115 E. Second Street, supported the idea of a pre-
school going into downtown Tustin but indicated a concern related
to on-street parking impacts and a possible expansion to 120
students.
The Director indicated that Condition 2.2 effectively restricts the
enrollment.
Greq Bennett stated the school will comply with the 15 unrestricted
parking spaces and will try to work with the adjacent neighbor.
Commissioner Bone stated that the Planning Commission should
address the eight unrestricted parking spaces.
Lois Bobak stated that this issue must be resolved between the
property owners.
Greq Bennett stated that the Commission can waive the loading zone
requirement.
The Director stated this request would require a Variance and a
public hearing.
Greg Bennett agreed and will work with the adjacent property owner
to come up with a mutually agreed upon striping/signage program
that complies with the local ordinance.
Planning Commission Minutes
November 12, 1996
Page 15
Commissioner Pontious indicated the need to modify Condition 2.3 to
seven spaces.
Commissioner Bone asked if 52 students would be a profitable
business for the applicant.
Commissioner Pontious indicated that is not the Commission's
concern.
Nancy Feinstein stated that time was of the essence and hoped to
have the school open on January 2nd with the opening of the school
term.
Commissioner Bone asked Cameron Darby if he could make any
assurances regarding a resolution to the parking issues.
Cameron Darby asked if the Commission was asking him to commit to
a resolution on the record. He stated he approached the owners of
220 E1 Camino Real and tried to enter into a discussion with
regards to the parking issue today and the explanation he received
was that the applicant had represented that they met the parking
requirements and did not understand what he was talking about. He
was not here to squash or quelsh business in Tustin. But has an
obligation to protect his client's property rights.
Greq Bennett stated he appreciated the gesture and thought Mrs.
Feinstein was approached and did not understand the nuances of what
the other attorney was representing. He indicated the property
owners could resolve the parking concerns.
Commissioner Vandaveer stated that there was construction occurring
on this project and asked if he was proceeding already.
Greq Bennett stated they went to the City and obtained the
necessary demolition permits. He stated that no work has begun at
the location but plans will be submitted based on this approval.
Commissioner Vandaveer stated that staff told him there were no
demolition permits issued.
Nancy Feinstein stated that on the direction of Mr. Bennett she
went to the building department to request a demolition permit and
was told that until the Conditional Use Permit was approved, she
did not need a demolition permit. Anything done between now and
then would be her own risk since the project could be turned down.
She has done some construction because the area between retail and
the nursery school required a special fire wall. There has been
quite a bit of activity with lumber drops and activities of that
nature.
The Director clarified that demolition to the interior improvements
requires a permit. Staff will send an inspector first thing in the
morning. There are several conditions of approval on this
conditional use permit that require building permits be approved
and that various conditions be met before those permits can be
issued. For example, Condition No. 2.7 would require the
consolidation of the lots before building permits could be issued
so it would be inappropriate at this point for the demolition to
continue until those respective easements can be secured.
Planning Commission Minutes
November 12, 1996
Page 16
Greq Bennett stated no exterior work has been done to that location
that would constitute anything related to the property lines or
sawing of the block wall at the property line. What Nancy did was
tear out the old tenant improvements. No major works of
improvement besides painting and restoring the carpet, no tenant
improvements have been started for the school in any way.
Commissioner Bone asked what work had been done in the salon.
Greq Bennett stated the salon tile floor was installed, the carpet
replaced, and the building repainted.
Commissioner Bone asked about the wall.
Greg Bennett stated one of the walls on a property line separation
between the occupancy had siding on it. He stated that it is
possible that the work should have had a permit. It was replaced
with chipboard and the siding was replaced. But that is not a work
of substantial improvement. If the applicant forgot to get a
permit for this improvement, she will get a permit. That is a wall
that exists, it is not two by four construction that was built.
This is a cosmetic wall that separates the future school and the
existing retailer up front.
Commissioner Bone asked if the wall was removed.
Greq Bennett stated the wall was not removed.
The Director indicated that staff needs to take a look at the
improvements. The Uniform Building Code is clear as to when a
permit is required.
Greq Bennett stated he thinks the wall potentially needed a permit
but was not sure the demolition needed a permit. He thought the
applicant made an effort to go to city hall, and thought there was
a miscommunication.
Nancy Feinstein stated she did not know that the special fire wall
was required until she received the City's recommendations on the
CUP and the salon was opening within two days. They photographed
the work in case there was any question on the nailing.
Commissioner Bone recommended that the owner go to city staff
tomorrow morning and introduce herself and staff would be more than
happy to walk her through the process.
Nancy Feinstein stated staff has been very good with her and she
has no complaints.
Commissioner Vandaveer stated the only problems he had related to
the parking and noise impacts, but supported the school use in the
downtown area.
Commissioner Pontious stated she is the Chairperson of the Business
Attraction Committee. They have looked at the Old Town area and
she thinks this would be a positive improvement of not only the
vacant lot but the traffic that it would bring in. People would be
going by the downtown businesses and hopefully stopping and using
the services.
Commissioner Bone agreed with the other Commissioners.
Planning Commission Minutes
November 12, 1996
Page 17
Commissioner Pontious indicated that the City Council has had
problems with keeping that lot clean so the improvements will be an
asset.
Commissioner Kozak agreed with the other Commissioners and
indicated Edgewood School has an excellent reputation. He
encouraged the property owners to work out the parking problems.
Commissioner Vandaveer moved, Kozak seconded, to approve
Conditional Use Permit 96-034 and Design Review 96-048 by adopting
Resolution No. 3500 revised as follows: Exhibit A, Page 2,
Condition 2.2 third line down references "Seventeen (17) of those
spaces are located in the adjacent parking area." Seventeen should
be changed to fifteen.
Condition 2.3 revised to read: "A minimum of one space in the
parking lot adjacent to the site for every eight students shall be
marked as restricted for students loading and unloading only during
peak period hours. Said spaces may be used for parking during non-
peak periods." The last sentence would remain the same.
Condition 2.4 revised to read "If in the future the City is advised
that a parking, traffic, or noise problem exists on the site or in
the vicinity as a result of the pre-school, the Director of
Community Development may require the applicant to prepare a
parking demand analysis, traffic study, or noise analysis. If said
study indicates there is inadequate parking or a traffic or noise
problem, the applicant shall be required to provide mitigation
measures." The remainder of the condition would remain as stated.
Motion carried 5-0.
8. Comprehensive Revisions To The City's Subdivision Cod~
APPLICANT:
LOCATION:
ZONING:
ENVIRONMENTAL
STATUS:
REQUEST:
CITY OF TUSTIN
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT
300 CENTENNIAL WAY
TUSTIN, CA 92680
CITYWIDE
CITYWIDE
THE PROJECT IS REGULATORY IN NATURE, THEREFORE, IT
HAS BEEN DETERMINED THAT THIS PROJECT WOULD NOT
HAVE A SIGNIFICANT EFFECT ON THE ENVIRONMENT AND A
NEGATIVE DECLARATION HAS BEEN PREPARED. WHEN
INDIVIDUAL APPLICATIONS ARE SUBMITTED FOR
CONSIDERATION, INDEPENDENT ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW
WILL OCCUR.
COMPREHENSIVE REVISIONS TO THE CITY'S SUBDIVISION
CODE (TCC 9310 ET.SEQ.) TO IMPLEMENT THE
SUBDIVISION MAP ACT OF THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA
RELATED TO THE DIVISION OF LAND WITHIN OR PARTIALLY
WITHIN THE CITY.
Recommendation - That the Planning Commission:
Adopt Resolution No. 3501 approving the environmental
determination for the project; and,
Adopt Resolution No. 3502 recommending that the City Council
approve comprehensive revisions to Article 9, Chapter 3,
Subdivisions.
The Public Hearing opened at 9:45 p.m.
Planning Commission Minutes
November 12, 1996
Page 18
Presentation: Daniel Fox, Senior Planner
The Public Hearing closed at 9:50 p.m.
Commissioner Vandaveer moved, Pontious seconded, to continue the
item to the November 25, 1996 meeting. Motion carried 5-0.
REGULAR BUSINESS:
No Regular Business
STAFF CONCERNS:
No Staff Concerns
COMMISSION CONCERNS:
Commissioner Mitzman
- Noted that construction had begun on the high school
site.
Commissioner Kozak
Indicated that vehicles for sale are being parked on Holt
Avenue.
The Director indicated that the city code would need to be
amended to be more aggressive in handling these violations.
- Inquired what the next step is after an individual is
given a final notice.
The Director indicated that the matter is then forwarded to
the City Attorney for appropriate legal action.
- Indicated that when traffic backs up on Newport Avenue at
Holt Avenue vehicles waiting to make a left turn are very
close to the intersection. He indicated that perhaps a
left turn lane would be helpful.
The Traffic Engineer indicated that Engineering would follow-
up on his suggestion.
Commissioner Vandaveer
- Asked if staff could show the 300 foot radius on location
maps that are given to the Commission.
The Director indicated that, in the future, staff would make
every effort to show the 300 foot radius on location maps.
Commissioner Bone
- Inquired about the hours and days the Tustin Sports Park
was open.
The Director indicated that staff would follow-up on his
request.
Planning Commission Minutes
November 12, 1996
Page 19
Noted that he was receiving complaints from the Chamber
of Commerce regarding homeless people sleeping on bus
benches which prevents individuals from using the
benches.
The Director indicated that staff would follow-up on his
complaint.
Inquired about the status of Home Depot's outside
storage.
Staff indicated that the City was currently going to be
receiving plans from Home Depot on their proposal. Staff
expects that the item will come before the Commission at their
first meeting in December.
Report on Actions taken at the November 4, 1996 City Council
Meetinq.
Presentation: Elizabeth A. Binsack, Community Development Director
AD JOURB74E~:
Commissioner Vandaveer moved, Pontious seconded, to adjourn the
meeting at 10:03 p.m. Motion carried 5-0.
The next regularly scheduled meeting of the Planning Commission is
on November 25, 1996 beginning at 7:00 p.m., City Council Chambers,
300 Centennial Way, Tustin.
LOU BONE
Chairman
KATHY MARTIN ~
Recording Secretary