HomeMy WebLinkAbout02 PC REPORTti�Y O
w AGENDA REPORT
MEETING DATE:
ice
FROM:
AUGUST 12, 2014
PLANNING COMMISSION
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT
90TNU
SUBJECT: ZONE CHANGE 2014 -001, SUBDIVISION 2013 -01 FOR TENTATIVE TRACT
MAP 17665, CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT 2013 -01, AND DESIGN REVIEW
2013 -002 FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF SIX (6) SINGLE FAMILY DETACHED
RESIDENTIAL CONDOMINIUM UNITS AT 1381 -1391 SAN JUAN STREET
APPLICANT: ALFONSO MACIEL
A&A DRAFTING
2017 W. ALCO AVENUE
SANTA ANA, CA 92703
PROPERTY OWNER: SHAYGAN FAMILY TRUST
19 SPIKE MOSS
IRVINE, CA 92603
LOCATION: 1381 -1391 SAN JUAN STREET
GENERAL PLAN: HIGH DENSITY RESIDENTIAL (HDR 15 -25 DU /ACRE)
ZONING: EXISTING: MULTIPLE FAMILY RESIDENTIAL (R3) 2700
PROPOSED: MULTIPLE FAMILY RESIDENTIAL (R3) 2650
EXISTING LAND USE: VACANT AND SINGLE FAMILY RESIDENTIAL
':i ■r n A'.ai
m -�! ii ii it FAM ii it ii
I � I
Planning Commission Report
August 12, 2014
1381 -1391 San Juan Street
Page 2
ENVIRONMENTAL: THIS PROJECT IS STATUTORILY EXEMPT PURSUANT TO
SECTION 15270(A) OF THE CALIFORNIA CODE OF REGULATIONS
(GUIDELINES FOR THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY
ACT). CEQA DOES NOT APPLY TO PROJECTS WHICH A PUBLIC
AGENCY REJECTS OR DISAPPROVES. IF ZONE CHANGE 2014-
001, SUBDIVISION 2013 -01, CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT 2013 -01
AND DESIGN REVIEW 2013 -002 ARE NOT REJECTED OR
DISAPPROVED, A NEW ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW WILL BE
CONDUCTED ACCORDINGLY.
REQUESTS: 1. ZONE CHANGE (ZC) 2014 -001 TO CHANGE THE ZONING
FROM R3 -2700 TO R3 2650 TO REDUCE THE MINIMUM LOT
AREA PER FAMILY UNIT FROM 2,700 SQUARE FEET TO 2,650
SQUARE FEET TO ALLOW THE DEVELOPMENT OF SIX (6)
RESIDENTIAL CONDOMINIUM UNITS.
2. SUBDIVISION (SUB) 2013 -01 FOR TENTATIVE TRACT MAP
(TTM) 17665 FOR THE SUBDIVISION OF AN APPROXIMATELY
1/3 ACRE SITE CONSISTING OF ONE (1) NUMBERED LOT
AND ONE (1) LETTERED LOT FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF
SIX (6) SINGLE FAMILY DETACHED CONDOMINIUM UNITS.
3. CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT (CUP) 2013 -01 FOR THE
DEVELOPMENT OF CONDOMINIUM UNITS IN THE R3 ZONING
DISTRICT, PURSUANT TO THE CRITERA OF THE PLANNED
DEVELOPMENT (PD) DISTRICT.
4. DESIGN REVIEW (DR) 2013 -002 FOR THE DESIGN AND SITE
LAYOUT OF SIX (6) SINGLE FAMILY DETACHED
CONDOMINIUM UNITS AND RELATED IMPROVEMENTS.
RECOMMENDATION:
That the Planning Commission adopt Resolution No. 4263, recommending that the City
Council deny:
a. ZC 2014 -001, a request to change the zoning from R3 2700 to R3 2650 to reduce the
minimum lot area per family unit from 2,700 square feet to 2,650 square feet to allow
the development of six (6) residential condominium units.
b. SUB 2013 -01 for TTM 17665 for the subdivision of an approximately 1/3 acre site
consisting of one (1) numbered lot and one (1) lettered lot for the development of six
(6) single family detached condominium units.
c. CUP 2013 -01 for the development of condominium units in the R3 Zoning District,
pursuant to the criteria of the Planned Development (PD) District.
d. DR 2013 -002 for the design and site layout of six (6) single family detached
condominium units and related improvements.
Planning Commission Report
August 12, 2014
1381 -1391 San Juan Street
Page 3
APPROVAL AUTHORITY:
Zone Change (ZC):
Tustin City Code (TCC) Section 9295f authorizes the Planning Commission to make a
recommendation to the City Council on ZC applications.
Subdivision (SUB)/Tentative Tract Map (TTM):
TCC Section 9321b authorizes the Planning Commission to review and take action on
Tentative Maps; however, since the proposal includes an entitlement application that
requires City Council approval, TTM 17665 is to be forwarded to the City Council for
concurrent consideration.
Conditional Use Permit (CUP):
TCC Section 9291 authorizes the Planning Commission to review and take action on CUPs;
however, since the proposal includes an entitlement action that requires City Council
approval, CUP 2103 -01 is to be forwarded to the City Council for concurrent consideration.
Design Review (DR):
TCC Section 9272 authorizes the Community Development Director to consider DR
applications; however, since the proposal includes an entitlement application that requires
City Council approval, DR 2013 -002 is to be forwarded to the City Council for concurrent
consideration.
BACKGROUND AND DISCUSSION:
Recent Site History
In 2005, the City approved a request by the previous property owner to demolish the single
family residence, apartment unit, and garage that existed at that time at 1381 San Juan Street
and construct a two -story apartment building with three (3) units. The previous property owner
later requested approval to construct one (1) single family residence in lieu of the apartments,
but never commenced construction.
In 2009, the current property owner purchased the property at 1381 San Juan Street with the
intention of developing new residences on the site. An application for a tentative parcel map,
conditional use permit, and design review was submitted in 2013 to subdivide the lot at 1381
San Juan Street and develop three (3) two -story detached residential condominiums on the
property. No change in zoning was necessary for this original application. While the application
was being processed and not yet determined complete, the property owner purchased the
adjacent property at 1391 San Juan Street with the understanding that the existing zoning of
both properties would allow a total of five (5) units to be developed on the site, subject to the
approval of the requested discretionary actions.
Planning Commission Report
August 12, 2014
1381 -1391 San Juan Street
Page 4
Site Location
The project site consists of two (2) lots, totaling approximately one -third of an acre in size, and
is located at 1381 -1391 San Juan Street. (Attachment A). The project site is bounded by Utt
Drive to the northwest, San Juan Street to the southwest and residential uses to the southeast
and northeast (Figure 1). Surrounding uses include multiple family residential across Utt Drive
to the northwest, multiple family residential across San Juan Street to the southwest, a single
family residence to the southeast, and multiple family residential to the northeast (Figure 1).
Figure 1
Project Description
ZC 2014 -001, SUB 2013 -01, CUP 2013 -01, and DR 2013 -002, are development applications for
the purpose of developing six (6) detached residential condominium units and related
improvements at 1381 -1391 San Juan Street (Figure 2). The project includes the demolition of
the existing single story single family residence and accessory structures at 1391 San Juan
Street.
Planning Commission Report
August 12.2O14
13V1'1881 San Juan Street
Page
Figure 2
Pursuant b]TCC Section 9226b. cUAd08AiniUnAS, as defined in the California Civil Code, are
C0OditiUDGUy p9[0iMBd when developed pursuant to the criteria of the Planned Development
(PD) District. Thus, the Tustin City Code requires that the PD standards ba used for the
proposed condominium project, N/ithth8@ppnDV@lOfaC0Dditi0D@|uS8p8[nliLTh8projeCfVVouW
comply with the development standards for the P[] District 8Sfollows:
it
UNIVE
24T.1
KH
Figure 2
Pursuant b]TCC Section 9226b. cUAd08AiniUnAS, as defined in the California Civil Code, are
C0OditiUDGUy p9[0iMBd when developed pursuant to the criteria of the Planned Development
(PD) District. Thus, the Tustin City Code requires that the PD standards ba used for the
proposed condominium project, N/ithth8@ppnDV@lOfaC0Dditi0D@|uS8p8[nliLTh8projeCfVVouW
comply with the development standards for the P[] District 8Sfollows:
Planning Commission Report
August 12, 2014
1361 -1391 San Juan Street
Page 6
Standard
Required
Proposed
Building Height
No maximum
35 feet
Front Yard Setback
Not specified
12 feet, 8 inches
Rear Yard Setback
10 feet
10 feet
Side Yard Setback
5 feet
5 feet
Corner Side Yard Setback
10 feet
10 feet
Architecture
The proposed project includes six (6) detached, three -story residential condominium units with
identical floor plans (Figure 3) in three different architectural styles: Craftsman, Spanish, and
Mediterranean. Two (2) of the residences are proposed to face San Juan Street, and the
remaining four (4) residences are proposed at the rear of the property, facing a central driveway
that is accessed from Utt Drive. Each home is 2,275 square feet is size and consists of three
(3) bedrooms and three and one -half (3.5) bathrooms. All of the bedrooms and two (2) of the
three (3) bathrooms are located on the third floor. The main living /dining area, kitchen, laundry
room, and powder room (1/2 bathroom), are located on the second floor. On the first floor there
are a den, one (1) bathroom, and a two -car garage.
Swann FLOOR
FIRIT FLOOR
T'� FLOOR MAN
TINS FLOOR ae.
Figure 3
Planning Commission Report
August 12, 2014
1361 -1391 San Juan Street
Page 7
The six (6) proposed residences are designed in three different architectural styles: Craftsman,
Spanish, and Mediterranean. Each of the six (6) residences is three (3) stories in height and
features a two -story covered front porch, a deck on the second floor (facing the rear), and a
decorative balcony on the third floor.
-1{
11111 VI11�1
/
=' 110
Figure 4
The exterior elevations (Figure 4) are enhanced with architectural details such as gable roofs,
window and door trim, various size windows, decorative window shutters, balconies with
Planning Commission Report
August 12, 2014
1381 -1391 San Juan Street
Page 8
decorative railing, wood entry doors, and various stucco colors to create visual interest. The
roof material is proposed to be full - dimensional concrete shingles, with each residence having a
different color and material to complement the proposed architectural style and color scheme. It
should be noted that two (2) of the six (6) elevations depicted in this report are actually being
proposed in a reverse arrangement.
The applicant has proposed the use of several neutral and earth tone colors. Each unit features
one (1) or two (2) primary stucco colors, plus accent colors, to create visual interest. Each front
door and garage door is painted in a color that complements the stucco color. All shutters and
trim will be painted in accent colors. Material and color sample boards for the project will be
available at the Planning Commission meeting.
Landscape / Handscape
Landscaping is proposed along the perimeter and within the interior of the site. The proposed
trees include: Sunburst Honey Locus Tree and Golden Eclipse Lilac Tree. A variety of ground
covers and shrubs would be utilized throughout the site.
Decorative paving is proposed at the two (2) driveways on San Juan Street and along the middle of
the large driveway off of Utt Drive. Perimeter six (6) foot high "split- face" block walls are proposed
along the boundaries of the site facing San Juan Street and Utt Drive. Six (6) foot high block walls
are also proposed to enclose each of the six (6) private yard areas. Some of the existing six (6)
foot high block wall is proposed to remain along rear property line, while new walls will be
constructed along the remaining portions of the rear and side property lines.
Open Space Recreation Area
A private ground level yard area of between 400 and 533 square feet is provided for each of the
six (6) residences. Tustin City Code Section 9224g6 allows private ground level open space in
condominium developments to be credited toward the minimum open space requirement, which
is 400 square feet per dwelling unit of open space recreation area within a common designated
recreation area. However, the proposed development provides all of the required open space
for the condominium development within private yard areas, and does not provide any common
recreation area.
Parking
TCC Section 9263 requires two (2) covered parking spaces for each dwelling unit, plus one (1)
unassigned guest space for every four (4) units. This requirement has been satisfied by
providing each of the six (6) residential units with an attached two -car garage and by providing
three (3) on -site guest parking spaces.
Standard
Required
Provided
Resident Parking
12 covered
12 garage
Guest Parking
2
3
Parking Ratio Resident Parkin
21unit
21unit
Parking Ratio Guest Parkin
0.251unit
0.51unit
Total Parking Provided
14
15
Planning Commission Report
August 12, 2014
1381 -1391 San Juan Street
Page 9
Parking is also currently allowed on San Juan Street and Utt Drive along portions of the
perimeter of the site; however on- street parking is for public use and it will be necessary for
safety and visibility reasons to prohibit some or all of the on- street parking along the site
perimeter in conjunction with the development of the site, due to the curb cuts for the proposed
driveway approaches.
Traditional driveways are proposed for the two (2) residences facing San Juan Street. Vehicle
parking would be allowed in these two (2) driveways. However, traditional driveways are not
proposed for the four (4) residences at the rear of the property.
ANALYSIS:
Zone Change
TCC Section 9295 specifies any amendment to the zoning of a property may be initiated and
adopted as other ordinances are amended or adopted.
The project site is located within the Multiple Family Residential (R3) 2700 Zoning District, which
requires a minimum of 2,700 square feet of lot area per dwelling unit. A ZC is being requested to
change the zoning to R3 2650 to increase the allowable density of the site to allow the
development of six (6) residential condominium units. Without the approval of the requested ZC, a
maximum of five (5) residential units would be allowed on the 16,060 square foot site. Based on
the zoning designation, the site would need to be at least 16,200 square feet in size to allow the
development of six (6) residential units. The site has a General Plan designation of High Density
Residential (HDR) which allows the development of 15 -25 du /acre. Both the R3 2700 and R3 2650
zoning designations are consistent with the HDR General Plan land use designation. Therefore, a
general plan amendment is not required for this project.
As shown in Figure 5, the properties directly adjacent to the project site, as well as properties in the
immediate vicinity on Red Hill Avenue, Green Valley Drive, and Utt Drive are also zoned R3 2700.
The properties across Utt Drive and San Juan Street are zoned R3, which requires a minimum of
1,750 square feet of lot area per dwelling unit.
The proposed ZC from R3 2700 to R3 2650 would be classified as spot zoning since it only
includes two (2) relatively small lots within a block of properties zoned R3 2700 (Figure 5). As
articulated in court decisions, spot zoning is a term used to describe the discriminatory zoning of
a small parcel that is surrounded by land within a different zone and is contrary to orderly
development and sound land use planning principles.
In a recent case, Foothill Communities Coalition v. County of Orange, the court of appeal
determined that spot zoning can be justified where a "substantial public need exists" or if it is in
the public interest. However, the proposed ZC does not appear to promote the public good or
support a substantial public need or interest in that the housing units to be built would be offered
for sale at market rate and would not accommodate low and very-low income individuals or
special needs groups. The proposed ZC would primarily benefit the property owner by granting
the property owner privileges which are not granted or extended to other landowners in the
vicinity and in the same zoning district. In addition, the proposed ZC is a piecemeal approach
lacking of overall zoning or plan for the area.
Planning Commission Report
August 12, 2014
1381 -1391 San Juan Street
Page 10
Figure 5
If the project site were considerably larger (i.e. the properties fronting San Juan Street between
Utt Drive and Green Valley Drive and /or the entire block of properties were included and fully
evaluated and analyzed) in the requested ZC, the issue of spot zoning would not be a factor in
the decision - making process for the project. Such an analysis has not been provided with the
submitted application.
Conditional Use Permit and Design Review
TCC Section 9226b5 requires the approval of a conditional use permit for the development of
condominium units in the R3 Zoning District, when developed pursuant to the criteria of the
Planned Development (PD) District. Further, TCC Section 9272 requires applicants to obtain
Design Review approval prior to the issuance of building permits for all new structures. DR
2013 -002 provides for the design and site layout of the proposed residential project.
Design Compatibility
In part, the purpose of Design Review is to: 1) protect the value, standards, and importance of
land; 2) retain and strengthen the unity and order of the visual community; and, 3) ensure that
new uses and structures enhance their sites and are harmonious with the highest standards of
the surrounding area and the community.
Planning Commission Report
August 12, 2014
1381 -1391 San Juan Street
Page 11
Staff is concerned about the compatibility of the six (6) proposed three -story residences with the
adjacent single story residences to the northeast and southeast of the project site (Figures 6
and 7). The only existing three -story residential development in the vicinity of the proposed
project is located on the southwesterly side of San Juan Street, but it is surrounded on two (2)
sides by open space and on the third side by a two -story multi - family residence (Figures 8 and
9). Although the 35 -foot height of the proposed residences complies with the R3 development
standards, the project has not been designed to be sensitive to adjacent single -story residential
uses and may create intrusive visual impacts on the adjacent homes in the neighborhood.
Multi -story residential developments can be designed to be more compatible with adjacent
single story residences by considering the pattern and rhythm of the streetscape and by
providing adequate setbacks, significant architectural articulation and step- downs, sloping roof
planes, and other features that soften the transition between the adjacent properties. Figure 10
depicts how features, such as dormers and basements, can be used to reduce the bulk of taller
buildings and achieve compatibility with smaller buildings. However, these features are not
proposed, and approval of the proposed project could set an undesirable precedent for
additional incompatible in -fill development.
Figures 6 and 7
Planning Commission Report
August 12, 2014
1381 -1391 San Juan Street
Page 12
-e.
i�
Figures 8 and 9
Planning Commission Report
August 12, 2014
1381 -1391 San Juan Street
Page 13
COMPATIBILITY OF SCALE (HEIGHT):
Hide the building'& height within the roof.
Dormer& increase usable space.
Excavate help hide significant
differences In height.
7
n
nF:
c
I story 1.112 stories
2 stories 1 +basement
2 -1/2 stories
ZONING ALLOWS,
\ MOST FREQUENT \
SOMETIMES
\ 13UT REOUIRES
EXTRA CARE
Figure 10
Parking Issues
Single family detached residences within the City are typically developed with individual
driveways (minimum 20') in accordance with the required front yard setback of the Single Family
Residential (R1) zoning district. The proposed development circumvents this requirement by
subdividing the property in a manner which does not create individual lots. One purpose of the
driveway for single family detached dwellings is to allow for additional parking of vehicles.
Although a total of three (3) on -site guest parking spaces are proposed, which exceeds by one
(1) space the required number of guest parking spaces for the project, individual driveways are
proposed in only two (2) of the dwelling units within the development Therefore, staff
anticipates a lack of adequate parking for the project. Further, the proposed single family
detached dwellings are relatively large in size and generally can accommodate more persons
(resulting in more vehicles) than attached residential products provided in most multi - family
developments.
Open Space and Recreation Issues
TCC Section 9224gh requires a minimum of four hundred (400) square feet of open space
recreation area per dwelling unit within a common designated recreation area. Although private
ground level yard areas of between 400 and 533 square feet are proposed for each of the six
(6) residences, these private spaces may only be credited toward the project's open space
requirement and should not constitute the entire open space area or completely substitute for a
common recreation area. Providing a recreation area with amenities often mitigates the impacts
of higher density development and improves livability.
Tentative Tract Map
TCC Section 9323b2 requires a tentative tract map be prepared for subdivisions creating five (5)
or more condominiums as defined in Section 4125 of the California Civil Code. Tentative Tract
Map 17665 is a subdivision of an approximately 1/3 acre site into one (1) numbered lot and one
(1) lettered lot for the development of six (6) single family detached condominium units and
Planning Commission Report
August 12, 2014
1381 -1391 San Juan Street
Page 14
related improvements. Lot A is to be dedicated in fee title for sidewalk purposes to the City of
Tustin at no cost to the City. (Attachment C).
Pursuant to TCC Section 9331d2, 0.0067 acres of parkland per dwelling unit (in a higher density
development with 15 -25 dwelling units per acre) are required to be dedicated for park purposes.
When the subdivision consists of fewer than fifty (50) parcels, TCC Section 9331 d3 allows the
subdivider to pay a park in -lieu fee. Since the private open space provided for each of the six
(6) residences does not qualify for park credit, park in -lieu fees will be required for this project, if
the project were approved.
To ensure operational standards that are consistent with the intent of the community, a
Homeowners Association (HOA), Conditions, Covenants, and Restrictions (CC &Rs) and
homebuyer notifications would be required if the project were approved. In larger condominium
communities, these regulatory mechanisms are generally successful in providing for the
maintenance of the common areas of the community. However, in smaller communities such as
the proposed project, it is often challenging for the small HOA to provide for the long term
maintenance of the common areas and to fund significant capital expenses, such as driveway
and roof repair and replacements, often resulting in the need for code enforcement involvement
and supplemental assessments in HOA dues. Staff is also concerned about the ability of six (6)
owners to carry out the responsibilities of the HOA, including parking enforcement,
maintenance, and architectural review.
Other Agencies Input
In compliance with State Subdivision Map Act, the City sent out letters along with a copy of the
Tentative Tract Map to affected agencies. In response, three (3) agencies provided comments
(Attachment D). The Department of Transportation, District 12, indicated that they have no
comments at this time. Southern California Edison advised that the proposed map will not
unreasonably interfere with the free and complete exercise of any easements and /or facilities
held by Southern California Edison Company within the boundaries of said map. The Orange
County Sanitation District (OCSD) provided preliminary comments regarding the sewer
connection, abandonment/capping of the existing sewer lateral, OCSD fees, and a contract for
the shared sewer lateral. No further comments were received.
Environmental Review
This project is Statutorily Exempt pursuant to Section 15270(A) of the California Code of
Regulations (Guidelines for the California Environmental Quality Act). CEQA does not apply to
projects which a public agency rejects or disapproves. If ZC 2014001, SUB 2013 -01, CUP 2013-
01 and DR 2013 -002 are not rejected or disapproved, a new environmental review will be
conducted accordingly.
FINDINGS:
In determining whether to recommend that the City Council approve the proposed project, the
Planning Commission must determine whether or not the proposed use will be detrimental to the
health, safety, morals, comfort, or general welfare of the persons residing or working in the
neighborhood, or 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; and whether the location,
size, architectural features, and general appearance of the proposal will impair the orderly and
Planning Commission Report
August 12, 2014
1381 -1391 San Juan Street
Page 15
harmonious development of the area, the present or future development therein, the occupancy
thereof, or the community as a whole. A decision to recommend that the City Council deny this
request may be supported by the following findings:
1) That the proposed change in zoning from R3 2700 to R3 2650 would be classified as
spot zoning. As articulated in court decisions, spot zoning is a term used to describe the
discriminatory zoning of a small parcel that is surrounded by land within a different zone,
and is contrary to orderly development and sound land use planning principles.
2) That in a recent decision, the court of appeals determined that spot zoning can be
justified where a "substantial public need exists" or if it is in the public interest, and the
proposed ZC is not justified because it does not appear to support a substantial public
need or interest in that the housing units to be built would be offered for sale at market
rate and would not accommodate low and very-low income individuals or special needs
groups. The proposed ZC would primarily benefit the property owner by granting the
property owner privileges which are not granted or extended to other landowners in the
vicinity and in the same zoning district.
3) That if the project site were considerably larger (i.e. the properties fronting San Juan
Street between Utt Drive and Green Valley Drive and /or the entire block of properties
were included and fully evaluated and analyzed) in the requested ZC, the issue of spot
zoning would not be a factor in the decision - making process for the project. Such an
analysis has not been provided with the submitted application.
4) That the proposed development does not provide all of the units with driveways to
accommodate additional parking that are typically associated with single family
dwellings, by subdividing the property in a manner which does not create individual lots.
As individual driveways are proposed in only two (2) of the dwelling units within the
development, a lack of adequate guest parking is anticipated for the project (only three
guest spaces are proposed). This issue will become exacerbated if the HOA does not
adequately enforce garage parking.
5) That the lack of adequate on -site parking may impact the streets in the vicinity of the
project site and result in residents and guests parking their vehicles on the rear driveway
where parking is not allowed and blocking access for emergency vehicles.
6) TCC Section 9224g6 allows private ground level open space in condominium
developments to be credited toward the minimum open space requirement, which is 400
square feet per dwelling unit of open space recreation area within a common designated
recreation area. However, the proposed development provides all of the required open
space for the condominium development within private yard areas, and does not provide
any common recreation area. Providing a recreation area with amenities often mitigates
the impacts of higher density development and improves livability.
7) That the six (6) proposed residences are three stories and thirty-five (35) feet in height,
which is significantly taller than, not in scale with, insensitive to, incompatible with, and
greater in bulk than the existing residences directly adjacent to, and within the immediate
vicinity of, the project site, which also creates intrusive visual impacts on adjacent homes in
the neighborhood.
Planning Commission Report
August 12, 2014
1381 -1391 San Juan Street
Page 16
S) That multi -story residential developments can be designed to be more compatible with
adjacent single story residences by considering the pattern and rhythm of the
streetscape and by providing adequate setbacks, significant architectural articulation and
step- downs, dormers, basements, sloping roof planes, and other features that reduce
the bulk of taller buildings, soften the transition between the adjacent properties, and
achieve compatibility with smaller buildings. However, these features are not proposed,
and approving a project of a height and design that is not compatible with adjacent
development could set an undesirable precedent and result in a proliferation of
incompatible in -fill development.
9) That it is often challenging for small homeowners associations to provide for the long
term maintenance of the common areas and to fund significant capital expenses, such
as driveways, perimeter fencing /wall, utilities (water, sewer, etc.), often resulting in the
need for code enforcement involvement and supplemental assessments in HOA dues.
In addition, the six (6) owners may be unable to carry out the responsibilities of the HOA,
including parking enforcement, maintenance, and architectural review.
10) As proposed, Tentative Tract Map 17665 is not consistent with the existing R3 2700
zoning of the property, and may not be approved unless the City Council approves ZC
2014 -001.
CONCLUSION:
The proposed ZC 2014 -001, SUB 2013 -01 for TTM 17665, CUP 2013 -01 and DR 2013 -002
would have parking and visual impacts to the neighborhood surrounding the site, is incompatible
with the adjacent residential development, and does not comply with the intent of the City's
open space requirement for the proposed type of development. More importantly, the proposed
ZC is a type of spot zoning that is not extended to other landowners in the vicinity and in the
same zoning district; does not appear to promote the public good or support a substantial public
need or interest in that the housing units to be built would be offered for sale at market rate and
would not accommodate low and very -low income individuals or special needs groups; is a
piecemeal approach lacking of overall zoning or plan for the area; and, that is not justified and
should not be approved. Accordingly, staff recommends that the Planning Commission
recommend that the City Council deny ZC 2014 -001, SUB 2013 -01 for TTM 17665, CUP 2013-
01 and DR 2013 -002.
Scott Reekstin
Principal Planner
Attachments:
A. Location Map
B. Land Use Fact Sheet
C. Submitted Plans
D. Other Agencies Comments
E. Planning Commission Resolution No. 4263
Director of Community Development
r_rir_TS] :iky r:101: r_1
LOCATION MAP
LOCATION MAP
ZC 2014 -001, SUB 2013 -01, CUP 2013 -01, DR 2013 -002
1381 -1391 SAN JUAN STREET
.. .�...r.. "C�.,. UTT OR PWe
CHMLCU U DR.
o- PROJECT SITE
AT s 6w� ell,
J�
300' PJ
500'
THE -
COTTRE:f
�s
r 00119f1
OTI QW-1
I W_104 1IXIMI 9_[09•9:1 =101
LAND USE APPLICATION FACT SHEET
1. LAND USE APPLICATION NUMBER(S): ZC 2014 -001, SUB 2013 -01, CUP 2013 -01, DR 2013 -002
2. LOCATION: NEC SAN JUAN AND UTT DRIVE 3. ADDRESS: 1381 -1391 SAN JUAN STREET
4. APN(S):500- 081- (01 -02)
5. PREVIOUS APPLICATION RELATING TO THIS PROPERTY: TENTATIVE PARCEL MAP 2012 -145
6. SURROUNDING LAND USES:
NORTH: MULTI- FAMILY RESIDENTIAL SOUTH: MULTI - FAMILY RESIDENTIAL
EAST: SINGLE FAMILY RESIDENTIAL WEST: MULTI - FAMILY RESIDENTIAL
7. SURROUNDING ZONING DESIGNATION:
NORTHEAST: R3 -2700 MULTIPLE FAMILY RESIDENTIAL
SOUTHWEST: R3 - MULTIPLE FAMILY RESIDENTIAL
SOUTHEAST: R3-2700 MULTIPLE FAMILY RESIDENTIAL
NORTHWEST: R3- MULTIPLE FAMILY RESIDENTIAL
8. SURROUNDING GENERAL PLAN DESIGNATION:
NORTHEAST: HDR (HIGH DENSITY RESIDENTIAL) SOUTHWEST: HDR
SOUTHEAST: HDR NORTHWEST: HDR
9. SITE LAND USE:
A. EXISTING: VACANT /SINGLE FAMILY RESIDENTIAL
B. PROPOSED: SINGLE FAMILY DETACHED CONDOMINIUMS
C. GENERAL PLAN: HDR D. ZONING: R3 - 2700
PROPOSED GP: HDR PROPOSED ZONING: R3 - 2650
DEVELOPMENT FACTS:
10.
LOT AREA:
16.060 SQUARE FEET.
11.
PARKING:
14 REQUIRED SPACES
15 PROVIDED SPACES
12.
MAXIMUM HEIGHT:
NONE SPECIFIED: 35 FEET PROPOSED
13,
BUILDING SETBACKS:
REQUIRED
PROVIDED
FRONT:
NONE SPECIFIED
12 FEET, 8 INCHES
SIDE:
10 FEET
5 FEET
CORNER SIDE:
10 FEET
10 FEET
REAR:
10 FEET
10 FEET
ATTACHMENT C
SUBMITTED PLANS
• ~�� agee q` s ' _ruesM�P OU '@
S2aN2Om3 %
54 �lwnj 2neN §
11.4 �"| .
:¥
|§§ §AI §
, .
. ,
2q
.� a w=. a !
\51§1 �|
,• R
co
fit§ | '
4 089N VO ugsnj ;S uenr ueS 66£6 PUB 48£4 I I N
1 I
u ! • __
A►IWV� 3aJN1 9 is
5 �*
d
m, cc
0
.J
cc
LL
I� O V
F. F
N
u d'
y 1i C
F
I ,
e aF, 0
1 D a
I ;
. 1
... phi
S
J t
LL
3 WO 7
7 �
W
9
Eh8dl
6 _
I
6 - I
I
I
1
099Z6 V3 `w ;sny • ;s uenr ues M6 pue L9£6 I M
P- S33N3aIS3
k- IIWVxl 3'IJNI� g
8
!� a
VIII g
4 Pig F 7
W
0 W
a
II II f
� � W
__-
Ea
El
LL
I 3 �
I a6
a! Illmll
ei
•SC l�Ll
0�
I�0
I1
089Z6 tl3'ugsn1 6S uenr ueS 6686 PUe 68£6 1 �
1100 1 A"11W` =j 3'IJNI 9
z :..;; !, S3�N3QIS3)J
s zg S
I�lili� Ii al
ga m
9 kal o
' e �
a
J
'z
II II
LU
I II
HIM M� I
Ir 99
cB
Icy C �i
❑
0
SC
ai
II
�'IIIU�ffE'pQ'' _
F w
ILILJ
K /
II II I
II I I
I II II i
z " 089Z6 VO'upsnl •;S uenr ueS 66£6 Pue 68£6 �Q
s
All
;l °I.
I�1111� I! al
C
i
W
JW
cc
c
H�I7I W
�W X
W
13
-® _ ® J
¢A LL
ap
ss
I
I
CA
® SA
F0 II
III
n< it
II
1
II
I.
HH
I,
FM
a009Z6 V3 lui ;snl • ;S uenp ueS 66£6 PUB 68£6 €�
Al Wv� 3JN1 9 a aQ
�z a 88 O89Z6 VO `ui;sny o ;S uenr ueS M6 Pue M8
u 'I ' klddd A'1 W` =l MON1
le
Y �
e
X
c.
J 11 / H O 1 1 a
p
j6
4
5
6
W
6
Q
V
N
O
Z
5
e
p h
i9
o,
Z"
NxI
^
e
p h
i9
LO
CD
T
O
U
Z
LLJ
f
3� O
O
0 W
O
5 d a
, U �
2H2i
FJ y
NO d i£
U FLL0
si
2
w
� e@
jilt, i
II III � qq
Ille i f
I I III 6;1 II
me
I1III I
I I 9y
I II III °' Ilpe��
IIII i
I
i-
i�
I
I
1
i ?9
NIP�I@ 5�
a��EE
rnnr Nds
meatIS i '""" '•• - --
I� ilill
II ill
L,III,I�
pp�
8�
fill
J�
1�
'r —
!E
I�
I
m
m
n!
8
g@gi
B�
e
@
I.s
ii�iB
iEEg
H11
Ili
E� @i�
II III � qq
Ille i f
I I III 6;1 II
me
I1III I
I I 9y
I II III °' Ilpe��
IIII i
I
i-
i�
I
I
1
i ?9
NIP�I@ 5�
a��EE
rnnr Nds
meatIS i '""" '•• - --
I� ilill
II ill
L,III,I�
pp�
8�
fill
J�
1�
'r —
!E
I�
I
m
m
n!
8
g@gi
B�
e
4
m
0
z
Wm
W � �
o c.
M ,p`
i
'i
m
LU
' Z
� ❑!T J
W
!r �
k __1
k;
p iv
f
w.-
ATTACHMENT D
OTHER AGENCIES COMMENTS
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
DISTRICT 12
3347 MICHELSON DRIVE, SUITE 100
IRVINE, CA 92612 -8894
PHONE (949) 724 -2086
FAX (949) 724 -2592
TTY 711
www.doLca.gov
June 24, 2014
Mr. Scott Reekstin
Principal Planner
City of Tustin
300 Centennial Way
Tustin, CA. 92780
Dear Mr. Reekstin:
RECEIVED
JUN 27 2014
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPT
�T7
Serious drought.
Help save water!
File: IGR/CEQA
SCH #: None
Log #: 3904
I -5, SR -22
Thank you for the opportunity to review and comment on Tentative Tract Map 17665. The
proposed condominium subdivision consisting of (1) numbered lot and (1) lettered lot for the
development of six single family detached condominium units on a 16,060 square foot site.
The Department of Transportation (Department) is a commenting agency on this
project and has no comment at this time. However, in the event of any activity in the
Department's right of way, an encroachment permit will be required.
Please continue to keep us informed of this project and any future developments that
could potentially impact State transportation facilities. If you have any questions or need
to contact us, please do not hesitate to call Aileen Kennedy at (949) 724 -2239.
Sincerely,
MAUREEN EL HARAKE
Branch Chief, Regional - Community- Transit Planning
District 12
c: Saied Hashemi, Traffic Operations North
"Provide a safe, sustainable, integrated and efficient transportation system
to enhance CaVorma's economy and livability "
SOI,t I II'RN CALH ORNIA
EDISON
��� tutsov t� nt; nary tt. c ... nru„ ,.
City of Tustin
300 Centennial Way
Tustin, CA 92780
Attention: Planning Division
Subject: Tract Map No. 17665
RECEIVED
JUN 3 0 2014
COMMUNITY OEVELOPMSNT DEPT
June 25, 2014
Please be advised that the division of the property shown on Tract Map No.
17665 will not unreasonably interfere with the free and complete exercise of any
easements and /or facilities held by Southern California Edison Company within
the boundaries of said map.
This letter should not be construed as a subordination of the Company's rights,
title and interest in and to said easement(s), nor should this letter be construed
as a waiver of any of the provisions contained in said easement(s) or a waiver of
costs for relocation of any affected facilities.
In the event that the development requires relocation of facilities, on the subject
property, which facilities exist by right of easement or otherwise, the
owner /developer will be requested to bear the cost of such relocation and provide
Edison with suitable replacement rights. Such costs and replacement rights are
required prior to the performance of the relocation.
If you have any questions, or need additional information in connection with the
subject subdivision, please contact me at (626) 302 -4473.
Steven D. Lowry ' l
Title and Real Estate Services
Corporate Real Estate Department
2151 Walnut Grove Ave. 2nd Flour
Tide and Real Estate Services
Rosemead, CA 91 770
Reekstin, Scott
From: Smith, Wendy <WSmith @OCSD.COM>
Sent: Thursday, June 26, 2014 2:09 PM
To: Hutter, Edmelynne; Reekstin, Scott
Cc: Smith, Wendy; PermitCounter
Subject: 1381 - 1391 San Juan Street; Tentative Tract Map No. 17665 Review
Hi Edmelynne,
Per our conversation earlier today, I've completed a preliminary review of the subject tract map. I anticipate having
comments regarding the following topics:
• Physical connection to the OCSD sewer on San Juan
• Abandonment and /or capping of existing sewer lateral
• OCSD fees required for the project
• Possible requirement to have the property owner draw up a contract /agreement (not sure of the correct
terminology to use yet) for the shared sewer lateral. I need to perform more research on this point
I will be on vacation starting tomorrow and returning on Monday July 7`h. ]will complete my review at that time.
Thank you for understanding.
Wendy Smith, P.E.
Orange County Sanitation District I Planning Division
Engineer
714.593.7880 ph
wsmith(mocsd.com
for you.
4 You 7 ■
s d:hil:4ki 11i:4
RESOLUTION NO. 4263
RESOLUTION NO. 4263
A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE
CITY OF TUSTIN, RECOMMENDING THAT THE CITY
COUNCIL DENY ZONE CHANGE 2014 -001, SUBDIVISION
2013 -01 FOR TENTATIVE TRACT MAP 17665, CONDITIONAL
USE PERMIT 2013 -01, AND DESIGN REVIEW 2013 -002, A
REQUEST TO CHANGE THE ZONING FROM MULTIPLE
FAMILY RESIDENTIAL (R3) 2700 TO R3 2650 AND TO
DEVELOP SIX (6) DETACHED RESIDENTIAL CONDOMINIUM
UNITS AT 1381 -1391 SAN JUAN STREET.
The Planning Commission does hereby resolve as follows:
I. The Planning Commission finds and determines as follows:
A. That a proper application has been submitted by Alfonso Maciel, for the
development of six (6) detached residential condominium units on an
approximately 1/3 acre site at 1381 -1391 San Juan Street.
B. That the development application includes the following requests:
1. Zone Change 2014 -001 to change the zoning from R3 2700 to R3 2650
to reduce the minimum lot area per family unit from 2,700 square feet to
2,650 square feet to allow the development of six (6) residential
condominium units.
2. Subdivision 2013 -01 for Tentative Tract Map 17665 to subdivide an
approximately 1/3 acre site consisting of one (1) numbered lot and one
(1) lettered lot for the development of six (6) single family detached
condominium units.
3. Conditional Use Permit 2013 -01 for the development of condominium
units in the R3 Zoning District, pursuant to the criteria of the Planned
Development (PD) District.
4. Design Review 2013 -002 for the design and site layout of six (6) single
family detached condominium units and related improvements.
C. That the site is zoned Multiple Family Residential (R3) 2700 and has a
High Density Residential General Plan land use designation. 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.
D. That Tustin City Code Section 9295 specifies any amendment to the
zoning of a property may be initiated and adopted as other ordinances are
amended or adopted.
Exhibit A
Resolution No. 4263
Page 2
E. That Tustin City Code Section 9323b2 requires a tentative tract map be
prepared for subdivisions creating five (5) or more condominiums as
defined in Section 4125 of the California Civil Code.
F. That Tustin City Code Section 9226b5 requires the approval of a conditional
use permit for the development of condominium units in the R3 Zoning
District, when developed pursuant to the criteria of the Planned
Development (PD) District.
G. That Tustin City Code Section 9272 requires applicants to obtain Design
Review approval prior to the issuance of building permits for all new
structures.
H. That a public hearing was duly called, noticed, and held for Zone Change
2014 -001, Subdivision 2013 -01 for Tentative Tract Map 17665,
Conditional Use Permit 2013 -01, and Design Review 2013 -02 on August
12, 2014, by the Planning Commission.
That the proposed change in zoning from R3 2700 to R3 2650 would be
classified as spot zoning. As articulated in court decisions, spot zoning is
a term used to describe the discriminatory zoning of a small parcel that is
surrounded by land within a different zone and is contrary to orderly
development and sound land use planning principles.
J. That the court of appeal determined in Foothill Communities Coalition v.
County of Orange that spot zoning can be justified where a "substantial
public need exists" or if it is in the public interest. The proposed zone
change is not justified because it does not appear to support a substantial
public need or interest in that the housing units to be built would be
offered for sale at market rate and would not accommodate low and very -
low income individuals or special needs groups. The proposed zone
change would primarily benefit the property owner by granting the
property owner privileges which are not granted or extended to other
landowners in the vicinity and in the same zoning district. In addition, the
proposed Zone Change is a piecemeal approach lacking of overall zoning
or a plan for the area.
K. That if the project site were considerably larger (i.e. the properties fronting
San Juan Street between Utt Drive and Green Valley Drive and /or the
entire block of properties were included and fully evaluated and analyzed)
in the requested ZC, the issue of spot zoning would not be a factor in the
decision - making process for the project. Such an analysis has not been
provided with the submitted application.
L. That the establishment, maintenance, and operation of the proposed use
will, under the circumstances of this case, be detrimental to the health,
safety, morals, comfort, or general welfare of the persons residing or working
Exhibit A
Resolution No. 4263
Page 3
in the neighborhood of such proposed use, and 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. That the proposed development does not provide all of the units with
driveways to accommodate additional parking that are typically
associated with single family dwellings, by subdividing the property in
a manner which does not create individual lots. As individual
driveways are proposed in only two (2) of the dwelling units within the
development, a lack of adequate guest parking is anticipated for the
project (only three guest spaces are proposed). This issue will
become exacerbated if the HOA does not adequately enforce garage
parking.
2. The lack of adequate on -site parking may impact the streets in the
vicinity of the project site and result in residents and guests parking
their vehicles on the rear driveway where parking is not allowed and
blocking access for emergency vehicles.
3. Tustin City Code Section 9224g6 allows private ground level open
space in condominium developments to be credited toward the
minimum open space requirement, which is 400 square feet of open
space recreation area within a common designated recreation area.
However, the proposed development provides all of the required
open space for the condominium development within private yard
areas, and does not provide any common recreation area. Providing
a recreation area with amenities often mitigates the impacts of higher
density development and improves livability.
M. That pursuant to Tustin City Code Section 9272, the location, size,
architectural features and general appearance of the proposed
development will impair the orderly and harmonious development of the
area, the present or future development therein, the occupancy thereof, or
the community as a whole, in that the six (6) proposed residences are three
stories and thirty -five (35) feet in height, which is significantly taller than, not
in scale with, insensitive to, incompatible with, and greater in bulk than the
existing residences directly adjacent to, and within the immediate vicinity of,
the project site, which also creates intrusive visual impacts on adjacent
homes in the neighborhood.
N. That multi -story residential developments can be designed to be more
compatible with adjacent single story residences by considering the
pattern and rhythm of the streetscape and by providing adequate
setbacks, significant architectural articulation and step- downs, dormers,
basements, sloping roof planes, and other features that reduce the bulk of
taller buildings, soften the transition between the adjacent properties, and
achieve compatibility with smaller buildings. However, these features are
not proposed, and approving a project of a height and design that is not
Exhibit A
Resolution No. 4263
Page 4
compatible with adjacent development could set an undesirable precedent
and result in a proliferation of incompatible in -fill development.
O. That it is often challenging for small homeowners associations to provide
for the long term maintenance of the common areas and to fund significant
capital expenses, such as driveways, perimeter fencing /wall, utilities
(water, sewer, etc.), often resulting in the need for code enforcement
involvement and supplemental assessments in HOA dues. In addition, the
six (6) owners may be unable to carry out the responsibilities of the HOA,
including parking enforcement, maintenance, and architectural review.
P. As proposed, Tentative Tract Map 17665 is not consistent with the existing
R3 2700 zoning of the property, and may not be approved unless the City
Council approves Zone Change 2014 -001.
Q. That this project is exempt pursuant to Section 15270 (Projects which are
disapproved) of the California Environmental Quality Act.
II. The Planning Commission hereby recommends that the City Council deny Zone
Change 2014 -001, Subdivision 2013 -01 for Tentative Tract Map 17665,
Conditional Use Permit 2013 -01 and Design Review 2013 -002, a request to
change the zoning and develop six (6) detached residential condominium units on
an approximately 1/3 acre site at 1381 -1391 San Juan Street.
PASSED AND ADOPTED by the Planning Commission of the City of Tustin, at a
regular meeting on the 12th day of August, 2014.
JEFF R. THOMPSON
Chairperson
ELIZABETH A. BINSACK
Planning Commission Secretary
Exhibit A
Resolution No. 4263
Page 5
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. 4263 was
duly passed and adopted at a regular meeting of the Tustin Planning Commission, held
on the 12th day of August, 2014, by the following vote:
PLANNING COMMISSIONER AYES:
PLANNING COMMISSIONER NOES:
PLANNING COMMISSIONER ABSTAINED:
PLANNING COMMISSIONER ABSENT:
ELIZABETH A. BINSACK
Planning Commission Secretary