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2003 09 09 PC Minutes MINUTES PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING A regular meeting held at the La Quinta City Hall 78-495 Calle Tampico, La Quinta, CA September 9, 2003 7:00 P.M. I. CALL TO ORDER A. This meeting of the Planning Commission was called to order at 7:00 p.m. by Chairman Kirk who asked Commissioner Quill to lead the flag salute. B. Present: Commissioners Paul Quill, Robert Tyler, and Chairman Tom Kirk. It was mOved and seconded by Commissioners Tyler/Quill to excuse Commissioners Abels and Daniels. Unanimously approved. C. Staff present: Community Development Director Jerry Herman, Assistant City Attorney Michael Houston, Assistant City Engineer. Director Steve Speer, Planning Manager Oscar Orci, Principal Planner Stan Sawa, Associate Planners Wallace Nesbit, Greg Trousdell, Martin Maga~a, and Executive Secretary Betty Sawyer. II. PUBLIC COMMENT: None. III. CONFIRMATION OF THE AGENDA: Confirmed IV. CONSENT ITEMS: 1. Chairman Kirk asked if there were any corrections to the Minutes of August 12, 2003. There being no corrections, it was moved and seconded by Commissioners Tyler/Quill to approve the minutes as submitted. Unanimously approved. 2. Department Report: None. V. PUBLIC HEARINGS: A. Continued - Environmental Assessment 2002-462~ Specific Plan 2002- 062~ and Site Development Permit 2002-754; a request of Jefferson Waring, LLC for consideration of: 1) certification of a Mitigated Negative Declaration of environmental impact; and 2) review of development principles and design guidelines for a 50,000 square foot market, 23,000 Planning Commission Minutes September 9, 2003 square foot drug and retail store and 20,970 square feet of retail shops on a 10.7 acre site located at the southwest corner of JeffersOn Street and Fred Waring Drive. 1. Chairman Kirk asked for the staff report. Staff informed the Commission that the applicant had requested a continuance of the project. 2. There being no discussion, it was moved and seconded by Commissioners Tyler/Quill to continue the project to October 14, 2003, as requested. Unanimously approved. B. Tentative Tract Map 29436 - Extension #2; a request of Trans-West Housing for consideration of a one year time extension to file a final map for a subdivision of 1 90 acres into 1 269 single family lots located on the north side of Eisenhower Drive, approximately Y2 mile west of Washington Street 1. Planning Manager Oscar Orci informed the Commission the applicant had requested a continuance to the Planning Commission meeting of September 23, 2003. 2. There being no discussion, it was moved and seconded by Commissioners Tyler/Quill to continue the project to September 23, 2003. Unanimously approved. C. Tentative Tract Map 31 249; a request of Madison/58~ Partners, LLC for consideration of a subdivision of 33 acres into 85 single family lots located on the south side of Avenue 58, approximately ½ mile west of Madison Street. 1. Chairman Kirk opened the public hearing and asked for the staff' report. Associate Planner Wallace Nesbit presented the information contained in the staff report, a copy of which is on file in the Community Development Department. 2. Chairman Kirk asked if there were any questions of staff. Commissioner Tyler asked about the 20 foot easement on the three sides of the projeCt as the letter from the attorney for Coral Mountain does not show the issue as being resolved. Assistant City Engineer Steve Speer stated the easement holder (Coral Mountain) does have access rights and they intend to use it. The G:\WPDOCS\PC Minutes\9-9-03WD.doc 2 Planning Commission Minutes September 9, 2003 easements are primarily for emergency and utility access. Commissioner Tyler asked if the Coral Mountain Specific Plan was still active. Staff stated it was active, but currently in the process of being amended; however, it does not show any access along the northern boundary. 3. Chairman Kirk asked if the City/applicant can enforce the first part of Condition 17. If the easement is recorded, can the City enforce an alternate right-of-way. Assistant City Attorney Michael Houston stated the easement holder, Coral Mountain, must agree to any changes in the easement. The City, or applicant, cannot obtain a change in the easement, or force the easement holder to change an easement, or take an alternate route. If a change in an easement is considered, it must be agreed to by the easement holder, although the easement holder may not overburden the easement. 4. Commissioner Quill asked if this wasn't a legal issue between the two parties. Assistant City Attorney Houston stated that was correct. We could condition the applicant to take certain actions, but cannot force the owner of the easement to take alternative action without their consent. 5. Commissioner Tyler asked if the applicant had the option to reduce the right of way down to 40 feet on Avenue 58, what value was used for the tract map. Staff stated Avenue 58 had been reduced to a Secondary Arterial, thus the condition. Commissioner Tyler questioned Condition #36 that since there were no adjacent developments, this condition should be removed. He asked if Condition #54 included a provision to bring this street up to City's urban standards.. Assistant City Engineer Steve Speer stated sometimes this is not known until they review the improvement plans and know what the longitudinal grade will be. A condition should be added that requires this to be done if it is determined to be such. Commissioner Tyler asked that a condition be added regarding the new CVWD landscaping conditions. Lastly, Condition #85 should be changed to reflect the height of the homes within 150 feet along Avenue 58. 6. Chairman Kirk asked if Avenue 58 was ever considered to be a Primary Arterial. Assistant City Engineer Steve Speer stated yes. All prior General Plans have shown Avenue 58 as a Primary G:\WPDOCS\PC Minutes\9-9-03WD.doc 3 Planning Commission Minutes ' September 9, 2003 Arterial, but the most'recent General Plan has downgraded it to a Secondary Arterial as it is building out at a lower density than anticipated, therefore,-no raised median. 7. Chairman Kirk asked why the access lined up with the development across the street. Staff stated the City did not force it or oppose it. As far as meeting signal warrants, they are met when the leg of the cross street with the most cross traffic meets the warrants; not the combination of the two. They can be offset in one direction, but not the opposite direction. 8. Chairman Kirk asked if the applicant would like to address the Commission. Mr. David Turner, Coachella Valley Engineers, engineer for the project, questioned Condition # 17, as they would like to have it deleted. The easements are for the parcel directly south of this project. Coral Mountain purchased this property and now has access to Avenue 58 and Madison Street without a need for the easement. It is their purpose to use it for emergency/utility uses. They are in discussions with them to vacate the easements. They would like the condition deleted and let the parties work it out. Also Condition #36 regarding building heights should be deleted as there is no tract adjoining them. Condition #54.C & D., they would request they be conditioned to either have a multi- purpose trail, or a sidewalk. Condition #57, they would request it also be deleted. In regard to Condition #65 they would like to request clarification as it apPears all the homes will need to be sprinklered and it should read that any homes greater than 5,000 square feet shall be sprinkerled. Lastly, Condition #85 should be corrected to read, "building heights shall be limited to one story, 22 feet along Avenue 58 adjacent to the tract for a distance into the site of 150 feet." 9. Chairman Kirk asked if there was any other public comment. There being none, Chairman Kirk closed the public hearing and opened the matter for Commission discussion. 10. Chairman Kirk asked staff about the condition regarding the multipurpose trail. Staff stated the General Plan is specific in that it is to be one or the other. With respect to Condition 57, staff has no objection to deleting it. Chairman Kirk asked if staff had any objection to deleting Condition #17. Staff stated there was none. G:\WPDOCS\PC Minutes\9-9-03WD.doc 4 Planning Commission Minutes September 9, 2003 11. Commissioner Quill asked for clarification on the two story height requirement. Staff clarified the condition should be corrected as it applies only to tracts that have adjoining tracts. In this case staff is only concerned with houses next to a street. Commissioner Quill asked if the trail was required. Staff stated it is required by the General Plan. 12. There being no further discussion, It was moved and seconded by Commissioners Quill/Tyler to adopt Planning Commission Resolution 2003-060 recommending certification of a Mitigated Negative Declaration of environmental impact for Environmental Assessment 2003-475, as recommended. ROLL CALL: AYES: Commissioners Quill, Tyler and Chairman Kirk. NOES: None. ABSENT: Commissioners Abels, Daniels. ABSTAIN: None. 13. There being no further discussion, it was moved and seconded by Commissioners Quill/Tyler to adopt. Planning Commission Resolution 2003-060 approving Tentative Tract Map 31249, as recommended/amended: a. Condition #17: Deleted b. Condition #36: Deleted c. Condition #54: Clarifying the condition to note whether or not it is to be a multipurpose trail and/or sidewalk d. Condition #57: Deleted e. Condition #65: Clarifying regarding what shOuld have sprinklers. f. Condition #85: Clarify that two-story houses are restricted along Avenue 58 only. ROLL CALL: AYES: Commissioners Quill, Tyler, and Chairman Kirk. NOES: None. ABSENT: Commissioners Abels and Daniels. ABSTAIN: None. D. Environmental Assessment 2003-478~ Specific Plan 2003-065, Tentative Tract Map 31379, and Site Development Permit 2003-778 - Villa La Quinta; a request of Centex Destination Properties for consideration of certification of a Mitigated Negative Declaration of environmental impact; review of development guidelines and standards for a residential resort G:\WPDOCS\PC Minutes\9-9-O3WD.doc 5 Planning Commission Minutes September 9, 2003 consisting of 280 units on 44.61 acres; a subdiVision map for an 18 development lots and other common lots for streets and retention basins; and review of multiple housing units plans for one and two story buildings ranging in size from 1,300 square feet to 2,090 square feet and a clubhouse building to be located on the west side of Eisenhower Drive at Coachella Drive. 1. Commissioners noted they had all met with the applicant prior to the meeting. 2. Chairman Kirk opened the public hearing and asked for the staff report. Associate Planner Greg Trousdell presented the information contained in the staff report, a copy of which is on file in the Community Development Department. Staff noted the changes to Condition #14 as requested by the applicant. 3. Chairman Kirk asked if there were any questions of staff. Commissioner Tyler asked when, or if, Big Horn Sheep had been seen in this area. Staff noted not to their knowledge. 4. Chairman Kirk asked for clarification, on the parking analysis. Staff stated the recommendation was from staff. 5. Chairman Kirk asked if the applicant would like to address the Commission. Mr. Forrest Haag, representing the applicant, gave a presentation on the project. 6. Chairman Kirk asked if only one .quarter of the project would be in turf. Mr. Haag stated there is a 50 foot desertscape buffer to the toe of the slope, which give a large opportunity to end up with very focused turf areas. It is a total surface calculation. Chairman Kirk asked if the architecture of this project and its links to the La Quinta Hotel are critical in more than one function. Mr.. Haag stated yes, but not critical to the success of the project. 7. Chairman Kirk asked if there was any other public comment. There being none, Chairman Kirk closed the public hearing and opened the matter for Commission discussion. 8. Commissioner Quill stated he is pleased with the project and has no objections. He is glad to see this cove developed with such a development. G:\WPDOCS\PC Minu{es\9-9-O3WD.doc (~ Planning Commission Minutes September 9, 2003 9. Commissioner Tyler stated he concurred with the statements as made, but still questions the need for the number of conditions in regard to the Big Horn Sheep. He believes the conditions should not be required unless the sheep are spotted. Assistant City Attorney Michael Houston stated the conditions are part of the Environmental Assessment as mitigation measures to reduce potential impacts. Commissioner Tyler stated his objection is to requiring all the conditions when there is no evidence the sheep exist in this location. Assistant City Attorney Houston stated they are typical conditions/mitigation measures and require specific findings to support by evidence to remove them. Ms. Nicole Criste, environmental consultant, stated there was evidence of sheep found in 1973 west of this site and two years ago two sheep were found just north of the project. To avoid a prospective take, it is imperative the Assessment remain as written. Commissioner Tyler questioned the 10 foot high light standards. Staff stated no lighting study had been completed. 10. Chairman Kirk noted Page 3.20, Section 3.5.1 of the Specific Plan that allows the applicant to change the architecture of the buildings without any public review process and he would ask that this be changed by deleting the third bullet. All substantial architectural changes should be submitted for Architecture and Landscaping Review Committee and Planning Commission review and approval. 11. There being no further discussion, it was moved and seconded by Commissioners Tyler/Quill to adopt Planning Commission Resolution 2003-062 certifying a Mitigated Negative Declaration of environmental impact for Environmental Assessment 2003-478, as recommended. ROLL CALL: AYES: Commissioners Quill, Tyler, and Chairman Kirk. NOES: None.' ABSENT: Commissioners Abels and Daniels. ABSTAIN: None. 12. There being no further discussion, it was moved and seconded by Commissioners Tyler/Quill to adopt Planning Commission Resolution 2003-063 approving Specific Plan 2003-065, as recommended/amended: G:\WPDOCS\PC Minutes\9-9-O3WD.doc '~ Planning Commission Minutes September 9, 2003 a. Condition #14: The second paragraph as modified by the applicant regarding the right to use the La Quinta Resort Hotel amenities contained in the contract between the La Quinta Resort Hotel and Centex Destination Properties. b. Condition #26: Modified to restrict any commercial towers from the Planning Areas and all satellite dishes shall not exceed 18-inches in size. c. Condition added: The Specific Plan Shall be amended deleting Bullet #3 of Section 3.5.1 of the Specific Plan and adding that all substantial architectural changes shall be reviewed and approved by the Architecture and Landscaping Review Committee and Planning Commission. d. Condition added: The Specific Plan shall be amended to replace the 420 square foot minimum livable area with 1,300 square feet as indicated in the Site Development Permit. ROLL CALL: AYES: Commissioners Quill, Tyler, and Chairman Kirk. NOES: None. ABSENT: Commissioners Abels and Daniels. ABSTAIN: None. 13. There being no further discussion, it was moved and seconded by Commissioners Tyler/Quill to adopt Planning Commission Resolution 2003-064 approving Tentative Tract Map 31 379, as recommended. ROLL CALL: AYES: Commissioners Quill, Tyler, and Chairman Kirk. NOES: None. ABSENT: Commissioners Abels and Daniels. ABSTAIN: None. 14. There being no further discussion, it was moved and seconded by Commissioners Tyler/Quill to adopt Planning Commission Resolution 2003-065 approving Site Development Permit 2003- 778, as recommended. ROLL CALL: AYES: Commissioners Quill, Tyler, and Chairman Kirk. NOES: None. ABSENT: Commissioners Abels and Daniels. ABSTAIN: None. E. Environmental Assessment 2003-481 and Specific Plan 2003-066; a request of Thomas Enterprises for consideration of: 1) certification of a Mitigated Negative Declaration of environmental impact; '2) review of G:\WPDOCS\PC Minutes\9-9-O3WD.doc 8 Planning Commission Minutes September 9, 2003 development principals and guidelines for a 175,200 square foot commercial complex on 17.4 acres; and 3) deletion of Specific Plan 99- 036 and an Amendment to Specific Plan 98-033 eliminating ten gross acres and adding them to Specific Plan 2003-066. 1. Chairman Kirk opened the public hearing and asked for the staff report. Principal Planner Stan Sawa presented the information contained in the staff report, a copy of which is on file in the Community Development Department. Staff asked that the Fire Department conditions submitted replace those in the conditions. 2. Chairman Kirk asked if there were any questions of staff. Commissioner Tyler asked if three of the pads along the front have drive-thrus. Staff stated that is correct. Commissioner Tyler noted It has been a discussion among the Commissioners to not allow the drive,thrus. Staff noted the individual elevations will be brought back to the Commission for their review. Commissioner Tyler asked the height of the light standards. Staff noted they are 24 feet. Commissioner Tyler asked about Condition 46.B. as to whether or not the access went all the way through the parking lot. Assistant City Engineer Steve Speer described the access on the east property line, 150 north of Highway 111 where there is an existing connection. This is to allow better circulation between this and the future project to the east. Commissioner Tyler asked why this applicant was being required to pay the full cost of the signal at Adams Street and Corporate Center Drive. Assistant City Engineer Steve Speer explained this applicant is essentially creating the increased traffic. The driveway access on the east side of Adams Street aligns with the one across the street. It is 400 feet from Highway 111 and does not comply with the General Plan and signal warrants. Therefore, a signal is needed at Corporate Center Drive to allow a break in traffic and accommodate the turning movements at this location. The options are to install the signal at the northerly access or remove the driveway access closer to Highway 111. In regard to the cul-de- sac in front of World Gym, it is proposed to be an emergency access only. Commissioner Tyler asked that condition #56 refer to Caltrans approval as well. G:\WPDOCS\PC Minutes\9-9-03WD.doc ~) Planning Commission Minutes September 9, 2003 3. Commissioner Quill asked if there were any site plans for the future post office. Staff stated no. Commissioner Quill noted the traffic problems on Adams Street with the High School traffic in the mornings and afternoons. 4. Chairman Kirk asked about the potential of closing the access on Adams Street closest to Highway 1 1 1. Assistant City Engineer Steve Speer stated they considered closing it and moving it further north, but determined that if there was a signal at Corporate Center Drive with a median, it would eliminate a lot of the problems. A suggestion would be to install a median and control the turning movements to be right in and Out only, but the General Plan does not allow this. Another suggestion would be to condition the project to install turning movement barriers within a five year period.. He would prefer to see the signal installed first before making that determination. 5. There being no further questions of staff, Chairman Kirk asked if the applicant would like to address the Commission. Mr. Mike Peroni, The Keith Companies, representing the applicant, gave a presentation on the project. He noted the accesses existed with the prior approvals and the prior Specific Plan did require a prorata share of the signal costs. Mr. Rob Parker, RGA, landscape architect for the project, clarified on the plant pallet along Highway 1 1 1' that it would conform to the Highway 1 1 1 Design Guidelines. Mr. William Sharen, architect for the project, gave a presentation on the projects architecture. He noted the treatment to the back of the building area. 6. Chairman Kirk asked if there were any questions of the applicant. Commissioner Tyler asked if anything prevented making the cul- de-sac a through access. Mr. Sharen stated they have no objection and would prefer to have it open. Planning Manager Oscar Orci stated it was staff's understanding the emergency only access was proposed by the applicant. Assistant City Engineer Steve Spear stated the World Gym does not have adequate parking and it was the intent to utilize parking from the adjoining uses on the subject property. His concern is that this is a service area and it could be a safety problem. G:\WPDOCS\PC Minutes\9-9-O3WO.doc l0 Planning Commission Minutes September 9, 2003 7. Chairman Kirk asked for clarification on'the landscaping plan in the parking islands. Mr. Sharen clarified it was only for the building elevation presentation boards and they do not show all the trees proposed. Chairman Kirk asked if the Specific Plan was approved, would everything else that does not require a conditional use permit be approved by staff? Staff stated each building will have to have a site development permit approved by the Planning Commission. 8. Commissioner Tyler asked about the drive-thru plans. Mr. Sharen stated there are three proposed. They are place holders only at this time as they do not have tenants. One is proposed to be a bank, maybe a food service, and possibility a coffee drive-thru. Each will have a berm and landscaping to hide the drive-thru. 9. Chairman Kirk asked if there was any other public comment. Mr. Neil Kleine, owner of the proposed nearby buildings, stated his issue is whether or not he would be included in the prorata cost for the traffic signal. In addition, regarding the shortage of parking for World Gym, he would prefer there be access to share the parking. Assistant City Engineer Steve Speer stated he could be included in the prorate share for any project that has not received its entitlements. 1 0. There being no other questions of the applicant and no other public comment, Chairman Kirk closed the public participation portion of the hearing and opened it to Commission discussion. 11. Commissioner Tyler stated his concern is the drive-thrus. He believes there should be some room for the applicant to work with staff in regard to the access points. 1 2. Commissioner Quill stated his concern with the intersection across from the Jiffy Lube as he believed it should be a right turn only. He asked if the applicant had an objection to the prorate share of the signal. Mr. Mel Kunel, owner of the project, stated they would absorb the cost of the entire signal. 13. Chairman Kirk noted the rear elevation has some room for improvement that can be addressed during the site development process. He would suggest four areas be addressed. 1) the traffic signal: Assistant City Engineer Steve Speer stated it could be G :\WPOOCS\PC Minutes{9-9-O3WD.doc Planning Commission Minutes September 9, 2003 conditioned to be resolved in five years if there is a problem. If the signal solves the problem, no further improvements would be required. Mr. Nicole Criste, consultant planner, .stated the Mitigated Monitoring Report requires it be solved before a grading permit can be issued. If it requires an additional study, the City Engineer can require it. The turning movements must be restricted unless it can be proven otherwise to the satisfaction of the City Engineer. 14. Chairman Kirk asked if there was any discussion regarding issue two, the cul-de-sac by World Gym. Commissioners discussed the advantages/disadvantages of opening the cul-de-sac. Assistant City Engineer Steve Speer stated there is a parking problem and to alleviate it the City has allowed parking on Corporate Center Drive. 15. Chairman Kirk noted the last issue is the drive-thrus. He asked if the Specific Plan could be conditioned to not allow them until such time as the Planning Commission has considered the proposed changes to the Zoning Code in regard to drive-thrus. Assistant City Attorney Michael Houston stated that under the Specific Plan, the drive-thru and gas stations could be required to file a conditional use permit application. 16. Commissioner Quill stated it didn't sound fair to allow this applicant to have drive-thrus when they were approved for other applicants. They do appear to be screening it appropriately. He would be open to the conditional use permit process. 17. There being no further discussion, it was moved and seconded by Commissioners Tyler/Quill to adopt Planning Commission Resolution 2003-066 certifying a Mitigated Negative Declaration for Environmental Assessment 2003-481, as recommended. ROLL CALL: AYES: Commissioners Quill, Tyler, and Chairman Kirk. NOES: None. ABSENT: Commissioners Abels and Daniels. ABSTAIN: None. 18. It was moved and seconded by Commissioners Tyler/Quill to adopt Planning Commission Resolution 2003-067, approving Specific Plan 2003-065, as recommended by staff and amended. G:\WPDOCS\PC Minutes\9-9-O3WD.doc 1_ 2 Planning Commission Minutes September 9, 2003 a. Condition added: All drive-thrus and gas stations shall require a conditional use permit application. b. Condition added: Prior to issuance of the first street improvement permit, the applicant shall post a bond, or money, to pay for the reconfiguration of the intersection of the driveway between Highway 111 and Corporate Center Drive should the Public Works Department determine that traffic problems have occurred within the first five years after a certificate of occupancy has been issued to the first building. The bond shall cover the cost of constructing the traffic restricters. At the end of the five years, should no substantial concerns be realized, the bond/money shall be released to the applicant. c. All conditions of the Fire Department shall be added. d. Condition #64: Reference to Caltrans approval shall be added. ROLL CALL: AYES: Commissioners Quill, Tyler, and Chairman Kirk. NOES: None. ABSENT: Commissioners Abels and Daniels. ABSTAIN: None. Chairman Kirk recessed the meeting at 9:14 p.m. and reconvened at 9:24 p.m. F. Site Development Permit 2003-783; a request of Michael Shovlin for consideration of development plans for a 5,150 square foot restaurant building located on the north side of Highway 111, east of Simon Drive, within the One Eleven La Quinta Shopping Center. 1. Chairman Kirk opened the public hearing and asked for the staff report. Principal Planner Stan Sawa presented the information contained in the staff report, a copy of which is on file in the Community Development Department. 2. Chairman Kirk asked if there were any questions of staff. Commissioner Quill asked if this was really a brewery. Staff stated it was his understanding it would be. 3. Commissioner Tyler asked about additional light standards for this area. Staff noted where they existing and potential areas for additional lights. Commissioner Tyler asked for clarification on Condition #53. Staff explained it was a request of the Architecture and Landscaping Review Committee (ALRC) to have G:\WPOOCS\PC Minutes\9-9-O3WD.doc ]3 Planning Commission Minutes September 9, 2003 the length of the parking lot islands shortened. Commissioner Tyler asked why the ALRC was asking for a "Bomacron" material in regard to the stamped concrete. Staff noted this was a suggestion of the ALRC and not a condition. Commissioner Tyler asked if the grain silo was to be painted any particular color. Staff noted this was a question of the applicant. 4. Chairman Kirk noted the ALRC requested there be no stamped concrete, which could be interpreted that they could use just concrete. 5. There being no further questions of staff, Chairman Kirk asked if the applicant would like to address the COmmission. Mr. Dave Smalley, representing Mr. Shovlin, stated they have no issues with the conditions as recommended. 6. Commissioner Tyler asked if the grain silo would be painted. Mr. Smolley presented a picture and stated it is typical that the silo be allowed to weather to look like a silo. 7. There being no further questions of the applicant, and no other public comment, the public participation portion of the hearing was closed and open for Commission discussion. 8. Commissioner Tyler stated he did not think the silo was appropriate. 9. There being no further discussion, it was moved and seconded by Commissioners Quill/Tyler to adopt Planning Commission Resolution 2003-068, approving Site Development Permit 2003- 783, as recommended by staff and amended: a. Conditions added: enhanced paving be used. ROLL CALL: AYES: Commissioners Quill and Chairman Kirk. NOES: Commissioner Tyler. ABSENT: Commissioners Abels and Daniels. ABSTAIN: None G. Sign Application 2003-718; a request of Evergreen Development Company, Inc. for consideration of a planned sign program for a 14,560 square foot Walgreens Pharmacy store located at the northeast corner of Washington Street and Avenue 48. G :\WPDOCS\PC Minutes\9-9-03WD.doc 14 Planning Commission Minutes September 9, 2003 1. Chairman Kirk opened the public hearing and asked for the staff report. Associate Planner Martin Maga~a presented the information contained in the staff report, a copy of which is on file in the Community Development Department. 2. Chairman Kirk asked if there were any questions of staff. Commissioner Tyler stated he agrees with staff's recommendation except the monument sign be moved. 3. Chairman Kirk asked if the Zoning Code allowed a monument sign for every use in the center. Staff stated one per street frontage was allowed and noted the location of the Walgreens monument sign. Staff noted Walgreens is its own parcel. 4. There being no further questions of staff, Chairman Kirk asked if the applicant would like to address the Commission. Mr. Reuben Garbett representing the applicant, stated the location of the sign is for the most visibility and they agree with staff's recommendation. 5. Commissioner Quill asked why there is a need for the "Drive-thru Pharmacy" sign? Mr. Garbett stated only to note there is one there. 6. Ms. Emily Hemphill, attorney for the applicant, stated they have agreed to reduce the size of the signs to meet the City's Code requirements. She went on to give a history of the project. 7. There being no further questions of the applicant, Chairman Kirk asked if there was any other public comment. Mr. Frank Christopher, 48-485 Vista Calico, stated his concern for the monument sign and suggested some trees be planted to mitigate the signage until the other commercial buildings are built. Chairman Kirk asked if he was suggesting a change to the type of signage. Mr. Christopher stated Walgreens has represented to the CounCil and others, that this building fits in with the high-end homes and modified their project to mitigate the concerns. A different sign would be more in fitting with that statement. 8. Commissioner Tyler noted Mr. Christopher's house is so far frOm the store that he would not even see the signs and asked if he G :\WPOOCS~PC Minutes\9-9.O3WD.<loc 15 Planning Commission Minutes September 9, 2003 representing himself or the members of the HOA. Mr. Christopher stated he is speaking for himself as well as "the community" at large. He would suggest the sign material be upgraded. 9. Mr. Rob Dawson, 79-770 Rancho La Quinta Drive, spoke on behalf of the HOA concerns. They agree with staff's recommendations, but do not agree with the wording in the Resolution stating it is in harmony with surrounding developments. He agrees with changing the orientation of the monument sign and landscaping on top of the berm. 10. Ms. Emily Hemphill stated there is a plan to plant four major trees along Avenue 48 as well as palm trees at the entrance that will buffer the sign on the south side. In regard to the sign materials, this is a national company that has a registered trademark and not something the company would consider. The orientation is important as it is not visible to the homes. 11. There being no other public comment, the public participation portion of the hearing was closed and open for Commission discussion. 12. Commissioner Quill asked if the property was zoned Commercial and is consistent with the land uses. Staff stated that is correct. Commissioner Quill stated he is very pleased with the design of this building and the efforts the applicant has gone to are exemplary in regard to the signage. 13. Commissioner Tyler stated generally a monument sign is next to a driveway. His concern is that once a person locates a business, the sign is no longer needed. He would agree with moving the sign and reducing it to four feet in height. 14. Chairman Kirk agreed with moving the monument sign closer to the access point. He recommended moving the signs along Washington Street further north. 15. There being no further discussion, it was moved and seconded by Commissioners Tyler/Quill to adopt Planning Commission Resolution 2003-069, approving Sign Application 2003-718, as recommended ~3y staff and amended: G:\WPDOCS\PC Minutes\9-9-O3WO.doc 1(~ Planning Commission Minutes September 9, 2003 a. Conditions added. The monument sign shall be moved closer to the access along Washington Street and limited to four feet in height, subject to the Public Works Department approval. b. Condition added: The word "Pharmacy" shall remain on the drive-thru signage c. Condition added: The maximum height of the wall sign on the west and south elevations shall be 15-feet. ROLL CALL: AYES: Commissioners Tyler, and Chairman Kirk. NOES: Commissioner Quill. ABSENT: Commissioners Abels and Daniels. ABSTAIN: None H. Conditional Use Permit 2003-079 and Site Development Permit 2003- 784; a request of Toll Brothers for consideration of develoPment plans for 50 two-story condominium units on a 5.0 acre site located on Lot 186 of Tract 30357, within Mountain View Country Club. 1. Chairman Kirk opened the public hearing and asked for the staff report. Associate Planner Martin Maga~a presented the information contained in the staff report, a copy of which is on file in the Community Development Department. 2. Chairman Kirk asked if there were any questions of staff. Commissioner Quill asked if the units would be sprinklered. Staff stated if they meet the criteria, yes. 3. Commissioner Tyler asked about the width of the roadway. Staff stated it would be 28 feet. Commissioner Tyler asked that Condition #40 be amended to remove the words, "if any''. 4. There being no further questions of staff, Chairman Kirk asked if the applicant would like to address the Commission. Mr. Blackshere stated the units would be sPrinklered. 5. There being no further questions of the applicant, and no other public comment, the public participation portion of the hearing was closed and open for Commission discussion. G :\WPDOCS\PC Minutes\9-9-O3WD.doc 1'7 Planning Commission Minutes September 9, 2003 6. There being no further discussion, it was moved and seconded by Commissioners Tyler/Quill to adopt Planning Commission Resolution 2003-070, approving Conditional Use Permit 2003-079 and Site Development Permit 2003-784, as recommended by staff and amended: a. Condition #40: "if any" shall.be deleted. ROLL CALL: AYES: Commissioners Quill, Tyler, and Chairman Kirk. NOES: None. ABSENT: Commissioners Abels and Daniels. ABSTAIN: None I. Site Development Permit 2003-780 and Site Development Permit 2003- 781; a request of Kleine Building and Development for consideration of development plans for two office buildings on 1.13 acres located at the southwest corner of Corporate Centre Drive and Commerce Way. 1. Chairman Kirk opened the public hearing and asked for the staff report. Associate Planner Martin Maga~a presented the information contained in the staff report, a copy of which is on file in the Community Development Department. 2. Chairman Kirk asked if there were any questions of staff. Commissioner Tyler asked why the ALRC wanted the cobblestones removed. Staff explained and discussion followed regarding colors. 3. There being no further questions of staff, Chairman Kirk asked if the applicant would like to address the Commission. Mr. Nell Kleine, the applicant, stated he was available to answer any questions. He would prefer the cobblestone and the colors as proposed. 4. There being no questions of the applicant, and no other public comment, the public participation portion of the hearing was closed and open for Commission discussion. 5. Chairman Kirk stated he was concerned with the design of the project and as such he could not support it. G:\WPDOCS\PC Minutes\9-9-O3WD.doc ];~ Planning Commission Minutes September 9, 2003 6. Commissioner Quill stated he had no objection to its location or the type of use proposed. Discussion followed regarding potential architectural changes. 7. There being no further discussion, it was moved and seconded by Commissioners Tyler/Quill to adopt Planning Commission Resolution 2003-071, approving Site Development Permit 2003- 780 as recommended by staff and amended: 8. a. Conditions added: Staff shall work with applicant to add architectural accents such as stone veneer on the columns. b. Condition added: The applicant shall have flexibility in regard to the color ROLL CALL: AYES: Commissioners Quill, Tyler, and Chairman Kirk. NOES: None. ABSENT: Commissioners Abels and Daniels. ABSTAIN: None 9. It was moved and seconded by Commissioners Tyler/Quill to adopt Planning Commission Resolution 2003-072 approving Site Development Permit 2003-781, as recommended by staff and amended: a. Conditions added: Staff shall work with applicant to add architectural accents such as stone veneer on the columns. b. Condition added: The applicant shall have flexibility in regard to the color. J. Conditional Use Permit 2003-080; a request of WalMart for consideration of a request to allow 55 metal containers for temporary storage of holiday merchandise from September 15, 2003 to January 15, 2004, on the north and west sides of the existing 135,693 square foot store, located at 78-950 Highway 111. 1. Chairman Kirk opened the public hearing and asked for the staff report. Associate Planner Martin Maga~a presented the information contained in the staff report, a copy of which is on file in the Community Development Department. G:\WPDOCS\PC Minutes\9-9-O3WD.doc Planning Commission Minutes September 9, 2003 2. There being no questions of staff, Chairman Kirk asked if the applicant would like to address the Commission. Mr. Mickey Anderson, representing WalMart, stated the need for the containers. 3. There being no further questions of the applicant, and no other public comment, the public participation portion of the hearing was closed and open for Commission discussion. 4. It was moved and seconded by Commissioners Tyler/Quill to adopt Planning Commission Resolution 2003-073, approving Conditional Use Permit 2003-080, as recommended by staff and amended: a. Conditions //2. The applicant shall be allowed 55 containers. ROLL CALL: AYES: Commissioners Quill, Tyler, and Chairman Kirk. NOES: None. ABSENT: Commissioners Abels and Daniels. ABSTAIN: None VII. BUSINESS ITEMS: A. Project Area No. 2 Plan Amendment; a request of the City for consideration of a preliminary plan for Project Area No. 2 Redevelopment Area Plan Amendment 1. Chairman Kirk asked for the staff report. Community Development Director Jerry Herman presented the information contained in the staff report, a copy of which is on file in the Community Development Department. 2. Chairman Kirk asked if there were any questions of staff. Commissioner Tyler asked if there was any merit in changing the boundaries. Staff noted a boundary change is a much more difficult process and therefore not proposed at this time. 3. There being no further discussion, it was moved and seconded by Commissioners Tyler/Quill to adopt Planning Commission Resolution 2003-074, recommending approval of the Preliminary plan for Project Area No 2 Redevelopment Area Plan Amendment. G :\WPDOCS\PC Minu{es\9-9~O3WD.doc 20 Planning Commission Minutes September 9, 2003 ROLL CALL: AYES: Commissioners Quill, Tyler, and Chairman Kirk. NOES: None. ABSENT: Commissioner Abels and Daniels. ABSTAIN: None IX. CORRESPONDENCE AND WRITTEN MATERIAL: None. X. COMMISSIONER ITEMS: 1. There was no report of the City Council meeting of August 19, 2003. XI. ADJOURNMENT: There being no further business, it was moved and seconded by Commissioners Tyler/Quill to adjourn this regular meeting of the Planning Commission to a regular meeting of the Planning Commission to be held on September 23, 2003, at 7:00 p.m. This meeting of the Planning Commission was adjourned at 11:14 p.m. Respectfully submitted, ~iutive~ - '~~Secreta ry City of La Quinta, California G:\WPDOCS\PC Minutes\9-9-O3WD.doc 2 ]