HomeMy WebLinkAboutFull PC Agenda - Nov 20PLANNING COMMISSION AGENDA
NOVEMBER 20, 2024
REGULAR MEETING – 6:30 PM
COUNCIL CHAMBERS
11111 BROOKSHIRE AVE., DOWNEY, CA
1. CALL TO ORDER: A REGULAR PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING - 6:30 PM
2. FLAG SALUTE
3. ROLL CALL: Lujan, Saikaly, Morales, Vice Chair Guerra, Chair Uva
4. PLANNING COMMISSIONER ANNOUNCEMENTS; REQUEST FOR FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS;
AND CONFERENCE/MEETING REPORTS:
5. PRESENTATIONS: Study Session – Draft Objective Design Standards (ODS) & Zoning Text
Amendments to implement the City of Downey Housing Element 2021-2029
6. REPORT ON CITY COUNCIL ACTIONS
7. PUBLIC HEARINGS:
A. PLN-24-00060 (SPECIFIC PLAN AMENDMENT & ZONING TEXT AMENDMENT)
Location: Rancho Los Amigos South Campus Specific Plan – Flex Tech/Bio-Medical Sub-district
Request: A request to amend the Rancho Los Amigos South Campus Specific Plan to allow the
continuation of industrial uses within existing buildings located in the Flex Tech/Bio-Medical
(FTBM) sub-district and to add a definition for “Existing FTBM Building” within Downey
Municipal Code section 9130
CEQA: Categorically Exempt - Section 15301 (Class 1–Existing Facilities) and Section 15061(b)(3)
of the CEQA Guidelines.
Staff: Planning Consultant, Laurel Reimer
Recommendation: That the Planning Commission:
A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
RECOMMENDING THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY ADOPT A
ZONING TEXT AMENDMENT (PLN-24-00060), THEREBY AMENDING SECTION
9130 OF ARTICLE IX OF THE DOWNEY MUNICIPAL CODE
A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
RECOMMENDING THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY ADOPT A
SPECIFIC PLAN AMENDMENT (PLN-24-00060), THEREBY AMENDING TABLE 5-1
OF THE RANCHO LOS AMIGOS SOUTH CAMPUS SPECIFIC PLAN WITHIN
EXISTING BUILDINGS LOCATED IN THE FLEX TECH/BIO-MEDICAL SUB-
DISTRICT OF THE RANCHO LOS AMIGOS SOUTH CAMPUS SPECIFIC PLAN
8. PUBLIC COMMENTS: CONSENT CALENDAR/ OTHER BUSINESS/ NON-AGENDA
Persons wishing to address the Planning Commission on any item listed on the Agenda, other than
public hearing items, may do so at this time.
It is requested, but not required, that you state your name, address, and subject matter upon which you
wish to speak. Please limit your comments to no more than four (4) minutes. Pursuant to the Brown Act,
no discussion or action, other than a brief response, referral to the City Planning staff or schedule for a
subsequent agenda, shall be taken by the Planning Commission on any issue brought forth that is not
listed on the Agenda.
PLANNING COMMISSION AGENDA
NOVEMBER 20, 2024
9. CONSENT CALENDAR ITEMS:
10. OTHER BUSINESS:
11. STAFF MEMBER COMMENTS
12. ADJOURNMENT
Supporting documents are available at: www.downeyca.org; City Hall-City Clerk’s Department, 11111
Brookshire Avenue, Monday – Friday, 7:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. Video streaming of the meeting is available on
the City’s website. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), if special assistance is
needed to participate in this meeting, complete the City’s Title II ADA Reasonable Accommodation Form
located on the City’s website and at City Hall - City Clerk’s Department, 11111 Brookshire Avenue, Monday –
Friday, 7:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m., and submit to the City Clerk’s Department or contact (562) 904-7280 or TTY 7-
1-1, 48 business hours prior to the Planning Commission meeting.
The City of Downey prohibits discrimination on the basis of disability in any of its program and services. For
questions, concerns, complaints, or for additional information regarding the ADA, contact the City’s
ADA/Section 504 Coordinator at ADACoordinator@downeyca.org; Phone: (562) 299-6619; or TTY at 7-1-1.
In compliance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act, the City of Downey prohibits discrimination of any person in
any of its program and services. If written language translation of City agendas or minutes, or for oral language
interpretation at a City meeting is needed, contact (562) 299-6619, 48 business hours prior to the meeting.
En cumplimiento con el Título VI de la Ley de Derechos Civiles, la Ciudad de Downey prohíbe la discriminación
de cualquier persona en todos sus programas y servicios. En caso de necesitar una traducción escrita de los
órdenes del día o las actas de las reuniones de la ciudad, o para solicitar un intérprete oral para una reunion
de la ciudad, comuníquese con el (562) 299-6619 en el horario de atención comercial, 48 horas antes de la
reunión.
I, Ria Ioannidis, Planning Secretary, City of Downey, do hereby certify, under penalty of perjury under the laws of the
State of California that the foregoing notice was posted pursuant to Government Code Section 54950 Et. Seq. and City
of Downey Ordinance at the following locations: Downey City Hall, Downey City Library, and Barbara J. Riley Senior
Center.
Dated this 15th day of November, 2024 Ria Ioannidis
Ria Ioannidis
Planning Commission Secretary
NOTICE: SECTION 9806 – APPEALS
Any person aggrieved or affected by any final determinations of the Commission concerning an application for action
of an administrative nature, including a variance or a permit, or any condition or requirement thereon, or upon the
failure of the Commission to make its findings and determinations within thirty (30) days after the closure of the hearing
thereon, no later than fifteen (15) calendar days, (Exception: subdivisions. no later than ten (10) calendar days) after
the date of the decision or of the Commission’s failure to make a determination, may file with the City Planner a written
notice of appeal there from to the Council. Such appeal shall set forth specifically wherein it is claimed the
Commission’s findings were in error, and wherein the decision of the Commission is not supported by the evidence
in the matter, and wherein the public necessity, convenience, and welfare require the Commission’s decision to be
reversed or modified
STAFF REPORT
PLANNING DIVISION
DATE: NOVEMBER 20, 2024
TO: PLANNING COMMISSION
SUBMITTED BY: IRMA HUITRON, DIRECTOR OF COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
REVIEWED BY: ALFONSO HERNANDEZ, PRINCIPAL PLANNER
PREPARED BY: LAUREL REIMER, AICP, PLANNING CONSULTANT
ABRAHAM LUNA, SENIOR PLANNER
SUBJECT: PLN-24-00060 (SPECIFIC PLAN AMENDMENT AND ZONING TEXT
AMENDMENT) – A REQUEST TO AMEND THE RANCHO LOS AMIGOS
SOUTH CAMPUS SPECIFIC PLAN TO ALLOW THE CONTINUATION OF
INDUSTRIAL USES WITHIN EXISTING BUILDINGS LOCATED IN THE
FLEX TECH/BIO-MEDICAL (FTBM) SUB-DISTRICT AND TO ADD A
DEFINITION FOR “EXISTING FTBM BUILDING” WITHIN DOWNEY
MUNICIPAL CODE SECTION 9130
LOCATION: FLEX TECH/BIO-MEDICAL SUB-DISTRICT (7500 AMIGOS AVENUE,
7711 AMIGOS AVENUE, 12620 ERICKSON AVENUE, 12750 ERICKSON
AVENUE, 7300 FLORES STREET, 7373 FLORES STREET, 7475-7485
FLORES STREET, 12707 RIVES AVENUE, 7400 IMPERIAL HIGHWAY,
7500 IMPERIAL HIGHWAY, 7700 IMPERIAL HIGHWAY, 11012
GARFIELD, 7755 GOLONDRINAS STREET, 7717 GOLONDRINAS
STREET)
ZONING: RANCHO LOS AMIGOS SOUTH CAMPUS SPECIFIC PLAN
REPORT SUMMARY
The Specific Plan Amendment (SPA) and Zoning Text Amendment (ZTA) would allow for the
continuation of industrial uses exclusively within existing buildings located in the Flex Tech/Bio-
Medical (FTBM) sub-district of the Rancho Los Amigos South Campus Specific Plan (RLASCSP),
and would add a definition for “Existing FTBM Building” within Downey Municipal Code Section
9130. Currently, the specific plan area identifies industrial uses as not permitted, and renders all
existing industrial uses as legally non-conforming. The legally non-conforming designation
conflicts with existing long term ground leases for industrial tenants in the Flex Tech/Bio-Medical
(FTBM) sub-district, which prompts this request.
Based on the analysis contained in this report, staff is recommending the Planning Commission
adopt the following titled resolution:
1. A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF
DOWNEY RECOMMENDING THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
DOWNEY ADOPT A ZONING TEXT AMENDMENT (PLN-24-00060),
PC AGENDA PAGE 1
Specific Plan Amendment and Zoning Text Amendment - PLN-24-00060
November 20, 2024 - Page 2
THEREBY AMENDING SECTION 9130 OF ARTICLE IX OF THE DOWNEY
MUNICIPAL CODE
2. A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF
DOWNEY RECOMMENDING THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
DOWNEY ADOPT A SPECIFIC PLAN AMENDMENT (PLN-24-00060),
THEREBY AMENDING TABLE 5-1 OF THE RANCHO LOS AMIGOS SOUTH
CAMPUS SPECIFIC PLAN WITHIN EXISTING BUILDINGS LOCATED IN
THE FLEX TECH/BIO-MEDICAL SUB-DISTRICT OF THE RANCHO LOS
AMIGOS SOUTH CAMPUS SPECIFIC PLAN
BACKGROUND
Adopted on October 12, 2021, the Rancho Los Amigos South Campus Specific Plan (RLASCSP)
was prepared to promote future development of the southern portion of the Rancho Los Amigos
Campus, which has sat mostly vacant since the consolidation of the Rancho Los Amigos National
Rehabilitation Center in the 1980s. The RLASCSP is unique in that it was a City initiated Specific
Plan located completely on land that is owned by the County of Los Angeles. The RLASCSP
envisions a composition of uses that complement the medical facilities in the North Campus, while
allowing for the expansion of Los Angeles County regional facilities. The RLASCSP also lays out
how to best develop transit-supportive uses around the proposed Metro West Santa Ana Branch
Gardendale Transit Station, to be located along the southern border of the planning area. Figure
A depicts the RLASCSP boundaries:
Figure A - Rancho Los Amigos South Campus Specific Plan Boundaries
The Rancho Los Amigos South Campus Specific Plan area encompasses approximately 172
acres and is divided into four sub-districts: Flex Tech Bio-Medical, Regional Public Facilities,
PC AGENDA PAGE 2
Specific Plan Amendment and Zoning Text Amendment - PLN-24-00060
November 20, 2024 - Page 3
Transit-Oriented Development, and Community-Service Uses. Figure B depicts the boundaries
for each sub-district within the specific plan area:
Figure B - Specific Plan Sub Districts
The Rancho Los Amigos South Campus Specific Plan Flex Tech/Bio-Medical sub-district is
generally located south of Imperial Highway, west of Rives Avenue, north of Flores Street and
east of Vulcan Street. The intent of the Flex Tech/Bio-Medical Sub-District is to promote job-
creating uses in fields related to surrounding industries. The sub-district is intended to
complement the Rancho Los Amigos Rehabilitation Center to the north with office/medical office
uses that can provide supportive services to one of the largest medical facilities in the region. The
sub-district encourages grouping a range of light industrial, office, and research uses together to
create an innovation hub within Downey.
The Flex Tech/Bio-Medical sub district subject site is surrounded by the uses summarized below:
Table 1 – Surrounding Uses
Direction Use Zone
West Manufacturing and Industrial City of South Gate
Single and Multi-Family Residential City of South Gate
North Rancho Los Amigos National
Rehabilitation Center R-1-5,000
East Single Family Residential R-1-5,000
South
Vacant Land RLASCSP – Regional Public
Facilities Sub District
Vacant Land RLASCSP – Transit Oriented
Development Sub District
PC AGENDA PAGE 3
Specific Plan Amendment and Zoning Text Amendment - PLN-24-00060
November 20, 2024 - Page 4
Prior to the adoption of the Rancho Los Amigos South Campus Specific Plan, land uses within
the project area were governed by the Rancho Los Amigos Specific Plan (SP-85-1) and the
Rancho Los Amigos Business Center Specific Plan (SP-88-1), which envisioned light industrial
and business park uses for the project area. While the land within the specific plan areas would
remain under Los Angeles County ownership, the specific plans assumed land would be leased
to private developers. In 1990, Los Angeles County entered into a 99-year ground lease with FDC
Partners Rancho, LP, who constructed four business park buildings located at 12620 Erickson
Avenue, 7711 Amigos Avenue, 7700 Imperial Highway, and 12707 Rives Avenue, and the
warehouse buildings located at 7500 Amigos Avenue, 7373 Flores Street, and 7475-7485 Flores
Street. FDC Partners Rancho, LP later constructed a fourth warehouse building at 7300 Flores
Street in 1999. Since their construction, the buildings owned by FDC Partners Rancho, LP have
been operating with various warehouse, distribution, office, and light industrial uses.
On May 8, 2024, the applicant, FDC Partners Rancho, LP, filed a Specific Plan Amendment
application. Subsequently, the applicant was issued an incomplete letter and worked with staff to
finalize the specific plan language. After submitting all required documents on November 6, 2024,
the application was deemed complete. On November 7, 2024, notice of the pending public
hearing, before the Planning Commission, was published in the Downey Patriot and mailed to all
tenants and property owners within 500 feet of the subject property.
DISCUSSION
The applicant, FDC Partners Rancho, LP, has made significant investments in the Flex Tech/Bio-
Medical sub-district of the Rancho Los Amigos South Campus Specific Plan since entering into a
long-term lease with Los Angeles County in 1990, which expires on March 27, 2089. The
applicant’s business park and warehouse buildings support a diverse mix of uses, some of which
are not permitted in the Rancho Los Amigos South Campus Specific Plan. The adoption of the
Specific Plan in 2021 rendered much of the industrial business park and warehouse uses as non-
conforming. As with all con-conforming uses, they were subject to the provisions of DMC Section
9410, Non-conforming Uses, Buildings, and Structure. Per DMC 9410, Nonconforming uses are
not permitted to expand the use, increase the size of the tenant space, or relocate to another
tenant space. As with all nonconforming uses, they are permitted to continue operations, provided
they are not discontinued for 180 days or more.
REQUEST
With several decades left on their lease with Los Angeles County, FDC Partners Rancho, LP
requests a Specific Plan Amendment and Zoning Text Amendment to ensure continued
operations of existing businesses and to enable existing buildings to be leased out to similar uses
in the future. Los Angeles County, as landowner, has authorized the applicant to pursue the
following requests (Exhibit D):
Specific Plan Amendment:
A second paragraph would be added to 5.4.2 Flex Tech/Bio-Medical (FTBM) Sub-District on page
5-5 stating:
It is recognized that much of the property within the FTBM Sub-District is subject to long-
term ground leases with the County of Los Angles as lessor. Such property has been
developed with, among other things, four large industrial buildings and a four building
business park. These lawful uses and structures that were established before the adoption
of this Specific Plan and within the FTBM Sub-District shall be allowed to continue and
operate through the end of the ground lease, which terminates on March 27, 2089. Such
uses and structures may be maintained and repaired through regular maintenance
PC AGENDA PAGE 4
Specific Plan Amendment and Zoning Text Amendment - PLN-24-00060
November 20, 2024 - Page 5
activities, including all necessary exterior, underground utility, and interior maintenance,
repairs, and replacements. Any future remodels and/or tenant improvements shall be
reviewed in accordance with the City's routine plan check submittal process. In the event
of partial or complete destruction of any pre-existing structures, such structures may be
repaired and restored to their previous configuration.
Table 5-1 Allowable Land Uses would be amended to add notes, as identified in red below, on
page 5-14 stating:
Add “Permitted within Existing FTBM Buildings” to the notes column for Parcel delivery
terminals, Warehouse (Commercial), and Wholesale brokers, jobbers, dealers,
distributors.
Table 5-1
Allowable Land Uses
Allowed land uses. The land uses and activities permitted by this Specific Plan, and the land
use permit required to establish
each use.
Prohibited land uses. Any table cell indicated an “N“ symbol indicates that the listed land use
is prohibited in that specific
subdistrict. Any use not listed is thereby prohibited.
Applicable sections. Where the “Notes” column in the table includes a Section number ("See
standards in Section"), the
regulations in the referenced section apply to the use; however, provisions in other Sections of
this Specific Plan or applicable section of the RLASCSP may also apply.
“P” = Permitted Use “A” = Ancillary Use (Permitted) “C” = Conditionally Permitted “N” = Not Permitted
Land Use or Activity Sub-Districts
FTBM RPF TOD CS
WHOLESALE, STORAGE AND DISTRIBUTION USES
Parcel delivery terminals N N N N Permitted within an “Existing
FTBM Building” as defined
in the Downey Municipal
Code
Refrigeration plant N N N N
Self-storage, min-storage,
mini-warehouse,
and recreational
vehicle storage
N N N N
Storage yards (Commercial) N N N N
Warehouse (Commercial) N N N N Permitted within an “Existing
FTBM Building” as defined
in the Downey Municipal
Code
Wholesale brokers, jobbers,
dealers, distributors
N N N N Permitted within an “Existing
FTBM Building” as defined
in the Downey Municipal
Code
Zoning Text Amendment:
The RLASCSP does not include definitions and instead refers to Downey Municipal Code Article
IX – Land Use, Chapter 1 – General Provisions and Definitions for clarification and definitions of
land uses and activities. Therefore, staff concluded a Zoning Text Amendment would be required
to add a definition for “Existing FTBM Building” to Downey Municipal Code Section 9130, which
would be defined as:
PC AGENDA PAGE 5
Specific Plan Amendment and Zoning Text Amendment - PLN-24-00060
November 20, 2024 - Page 6
Existing FTBM Building: An existing building in the Rancho Los Amigos South Campus
Specific Plan (RLASCSP) within the Flex Tech/Bio Medical (FTBM) sub district that was
established prior to the adoption of the RLASCSP and has operated with either a Parcel
delivery terminal, Warehouse, Logistics facility, Distribution center, Dispatch facility,
Drayage facility, or Wholesale brokers, jobbers, dealers, distributors, or any other use
established prior to the adoption of the RLASCSP.
The changes summarized above would permit such industrial uses solely in the buildings located
in the Flex Tech/Bio-Medical sub-district where such industrial uses currently operate or have
operated in the past. The applicant owns and operates the business park buildings located at
12620 Erickson Avenue, 7711 Amigos Avenue, 7700 Imperial Highway, and 12707 Rives Avenue,
and the warehouse buildings located at 7500 Amigos Avenue, 7373 Flores Street, 7475-7485
Flores Street, and 7300 Flores Street. The remainder of the buildings in the FTBM are owned and
operated by Los Angeles County and have not operated with industrial uses prior to the adoption
of the RLASCSP. Therefore, the buildings owned and operated by Los Angeles County are not
eligible for parcel delivery terminal, warehouse, or wholesale brokers, jobbers, dealers,
distributors uses.
ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS
Staff has reviewed the proposed Specific Plan Amendment for compliance with the California
Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). Upon completion of this review, staff has determined that this
request is categorically exempt under State CEQA Guidelines Section 15301, Existing Facilities,
which consists of the operation, repair, maintenance, permitting, leasing, licensing, or minor
alteration of existing facilities, involving negligible or no expansion of existing or former use. The
Project is also exempt under CEQA Guidelines Section 15061(b)(3), the “common sense”
exemption, where it can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility that the project will have
a significant effect on the environment. The Project consists of an amendment to the Rancho Los
Amigos South Campus Specific Plan to add existing uses to the permitted land uses table. The
Project does not involve construction of any kind. The existing uses were previously analyzed in
the Environmental Impact Reports for Specific Plan (SP) 88-1 (Rancho Business Center), Specific
Plan (SP) 85-1 (Rancho Los Amigos), Downey Vision 2025 Comprehensive General Plan Update,
and the Rancho Los Amigos South Campus Specific Plan. Therefore, the Project is also exempt
pursuant to Public Resources Code Section 21166 and CEQA Guidelines Section 15162, as the
Project consists entirely of land that has already been subject to an Environmental Impact Report,
and no extenuating circumstances exist that require subsequent environmental review.
PUBLIC NOTICE
Tribal Notices: On June 24, 2024, staff requested a Senate Bill 18 contact list from the Native
American Heritage Commission and received the contact list on July 2, 2024. Tribal notification
letters were sent on July 10, 2024, and the required 90-day consultation period ended on October
8, 2024. No requests for consultation were received.
Public Notices: On November 7, 2024, notice of the pending public hearing was published in the
Downey Patriot and mailed to all tenants and property owners within 500 feet of the project area.
Public Comments: As of the date that this report was printed, staff has not received any
correspondence regarding this application.
CONCLUSION
PC AGENDA PAGE 6
Specific Plan Amendment and Zoning Text Amendment - PLN-24-00060
November 20, 2024 - Page 7
Based on the analysis contained within this report, staff is concluding that all findings required for
approval can be made in a positive manner. As such, staff is recommending that the Planning
Commission adopt Resolution No. 24-4040 and No. 24-4041, recommending approval by the City
Council of a Zoning Text Amendment to Section 9130 of Article IX of the Downey Municipal Code
to add a definition of “Existing FTBM Building” and Specific Plan Amendment to amend Table 5-
1 of the Rancho Los Amigos South Campus Specific Plan with respect to the existing building
located in the Flex Tech/Bio-Medical Sub-District and (PLN-24-00060).
Exhibits
A. Draft Resolution No. 24-4040
B. Draft Resolution No. 24-4041
C. Applicant Request Letter
D. Los Angeles County Authorization
E. Rancho Business Center Identification Map
PC AGENDA PAGE 7
RESOLUTION NO. 24-4040
A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF
DOWNEY RECOMMENDING APPROVAL BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF DOWNEY OF A SPECIFIC PLAN AMENDMENT (PLN-24-00060) TO
AMEND TABLE 5-1 OF THE RANCHO LOS AMIGOS SOUTH CAMPUS
SPECIFIC PLAN WITH RESPECT TO EXISTING BUILDINGS LOCATED IN THE
FLEX TECH/BIO-MEDICAL SUB-DISTRICT
THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY DOES HEREBY RESOLVE AS
FOLLOWS:
SECTION 1. The Planning Commission of the City of Downey does hereby find,
determine, and declare as follows:
A.On May 8, 2024, Eric Knirk with Fremont Associates, representing FDC Partners
Rancho, LP (hereinafter “applicant”), submitted a request for a Specific Plan
Amendment to allow existing industrial and warehouse uses to be permitted by
right in the Rancho Los Amigos South Campus Specific Plan Flex Tech/Bio-
Medical sub-district (“Project”).
B.On June 12, 2024, the applicant was issued a letter deeming the application
incomplete.
C.On July 10, 2024, Tribal notification letters were sent to the Senate Bill 18 contact
list from the Native American Heritage Commission, and the required 90-day
consultation period ended on October 8, 2024. No requests for consultation were
received.
D.On November 6, 2024, the application was deemed complete after all required
documents were submitted and reviewed.
E.On November 7, 2024, a notice of the public hearing was sent to all tenants and
property owners within 500’ of the subject site and the notice was published in the
Downey Patriot.
F.The Planning Commission held a duly noticed public hearing on November 20,
2024, to consider the proposed Specific Plan Amendment, and after fully
considering all oral and written testimony, facts, and opinions offered at the
aforesaid public hearing adopted this Resolution.
SECTION 2. The Planning Commission has determined that the proposed Project was
reviewed for compliance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), and is
categorically exempt under State CEQA Guidelines Section 15301, Existing Facilities, which
consists of the operation, repair, maintenance, permitting, leasing, licensing, or minor alteration
of existing facilities, involving negligible or no expansion of existing or former use. The Project is
also exempt under Section 15061(b)(3), the “common sense” exemption, where it can be seen
with certainty that there is no possibility that the Project will have a significant effect on the
environment. The Project consists of an amendment to the Rancho Los Amigos South Campus
Specific Plan to add existing uses to the permitted land uses table. The Project does not involve
construction of any kind. The existing uses were previously analyzed in the Environmental Impact
Exhibit - A
PC AGENDA PAGE 8
Resolution No. 24-4040
Downey Planning Commission
Reports for Specific Plan (SP) 88-1 (Rancho Business Center), Specific Plan (SP) 85-1 (Rancho
Los Amigos), Downey Vision 2025 Comprehensive General Plan Update, and the Rancho Los
Amigos South Campus Specific Plan. Therefore, the Project is also exempt pursuant to Public
Resources Code Section 21166 and CEQA Guidelines Section 15162, as the Project consists
entirely of land that has already been subject to an Environmental Impact Report, and no
extenuating circumstances exist that require subsequent environmental review.
SECTION 3. Having considered all of the oral and written evidence presented to it at said
public hearing regarding the Specific Plan Amendment, and in accordance with Downey Municipal
Code Section 9836.10, the Planning Commission further finds, determines and declares that:
A. The proposed location of the development and proposed location of the development
and proposed conditions under which it will be operated or maintained are consistent
with the goals and policies embodied in the General Plan and other applicable plans
and policies adopted by the Council. The project conforms with all applicable
objectives, policies, and programs specified in the City’s General Plan. Specifically,
the project allows for existing industrial uses to remain within structures that were
designed and constructed within the last 34 years to support industrial related uses.
The Specific Plan Amendment complies with the following goals, policies and
prog rams:
Goal 1.1 – Provide sufficient land areas for uses that serve the needs of residents,
visitors, and businesses.
Policy 1.1.1 – Maintain a balance of land uses.
Program 1.1.1.4 – Discourage non-industrial uses into areas designated for
industrial uses.
Policy 1.1.3 – Provide an appropriate amount of land area for business and
employment.
Program 1.1.3.1 – Encourage land uses that generate jobs.
Goal 9.1 – Attract and retain businesses.
Policy 9.1.1 – Develop programs to attract and retain businesses.
Program 9.1.1.2. – Provide incentives for business retention and expansion.
Goal 9.2 – Promote Downey as an employment center.
Policy 9.2.1 – Promote job-generating land uses
Program 9.2.1.3 – Promote employment that increases the daytime population of
the city creating customer demand for other businesses
Policy 9.2.2. – Promote employment that increases in various economic sectors to
shield against business cycles.
Program 9.2.2.1. – Promote a diversified employment base with jobs in sectors in
addition to retail sales.
The Specific Plan Amendment allows for existing Downey businesses in the Flex
Tech/Bio-Medical Sub-District to remain as legal uses, rather than nonconforming
uses, through the duration of the ground lease. These existing uses are compatible
with the existing buildings, provide employment opportunities in Downey, and are
currently in market demand. The Specific Plan Amendment retains existing
businesses without impacting the ability to redevelop sites within the Flex Tech/Bio-
Medical Sub District should market conditions warrant redevelopment.
Exhibit - A
PC AGENDA PAGE 9
Resolution No. 24-4040
Downey Planning Commission
B. The proposed development is in accordance with the purposes and objectives of
Article IX of the Downey Municipal Code (Land Use) and the zone in which the site is
located. The Specific Plan Amendment complies with the Downey General Plan goals
and policies, as listed above. The Specific Plan Amendment enables existing
businesses and buildings to remain without impacting future uses contemplated for
the Flex Tech/Bio-Medical Sub District. The uses allowed under this amendment will
be uses previous conducted at the existing buildings located in the Flex Tech/Bio-
Medical sub-district. The warehouse buildings and business park are supported by the
existing utility infrastructure, not resulting in the need to upgrade such infrastructure
due to an intensity of land uses.
C. The development will not be detrimental to the public health, safety, or welfare of
persons residing or working in or adjacent to such a development, nor detrimental to
properties or improvements in the vicinity or the general welfare of the City. The
Specific Plan Amendment allows for existing uses to remain operating within existing
buildings. These existing uses will continue to conform with the performance and
operating standards of the Downey Municipal Code and the Rancho Los Amigos South
Campus Specific Plan.
D. The Specific Plan and resulting development will be consistent with the provisions of
Article 8 of Chapter 3 of the California Government Code, commencing with Section
65450 as may be subsequently amended by the State. Article 8 of Chapter 3 of the
California Government Code sets forth specific requirements and standards for the
content and adoption of Specific Plans, including that the Specific Plan is consistent
with the City’s General Plan. The Specific Plan Amendment is consistent with the City’s
General Plan, as no amendments are required to the Downey General Plan to
incorporate the proposed Specific Plan Amendment.
SECTION 4. Based upon the findings set forth in Sections 1 through 3 of this Resolution,
the Planning Commission of the City of Downey hereby recommends approval by the City Council
of a Specific Plan Amendment to the Rancho Los Amigos South Campus Specific Plan, as
outlined in the draft ordinance attached hereto as Attachment A.
Exhibit - A
PC AGENDA PAGE 10
Resolution No. 24-4040
Downey Planning Commission
SECTION 5. The Secretary shall certify the adoption of this Resolution.
PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED this 20th day of November 2024.
Carrie Uva, Chair,
City Planning Commission
I HEREBY CERTIFY that the foregoing is a true copy of a Resolution adopted by the Planning
Commission of the City of Downey at a regular meeting thereof, held on the 20th day of
November 2024, by the following vote, to wit:
AYES: COMMISSIONERS:
NOES: COMMISSIONERS:
ABSENT: COMMISSIONERS:
ABSTAIN: COMMISSIONERS:
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
_______________________
John M. Funk
City Attorney
CERTIFICATE OF ATTESTATION AND ORIGINALITY
I, Ria Ioannidis, Recording Secretary, do hereby attest to and certify that the foregoing
Resolution is the original resolution adopted by the Planning Commission of the City of Downey
at a regular meeting held on November 20, 2024.
Ria Ioannidis
Recording Secretary
Exhibit - A
PC AGENDA PAGE 11
Resolution No. 24-4040
Downey Planning Commission
ATTACHMENT A
ORDINANCE NO. _____
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
APPROVING A SPECIFIC PLAN AMENDMENT (PLN-24-00060) TO AMEND
TABLE 5-1 OF THE RANCHO LOS AMIGOS SOUTH CAMPUS SPECIFIC
PLAN WITH RESPECT TO EXISTING BUILDINGS LOCATED IN THE FLEX
TECH/BIO-MEDICAL SUB-DISTRICT
WHEREAS, the City of Downey is a Municipal Corporation and Charter City, duly
organized under the constitution and laws of the State of California; and
WHEREAS, On May 8, 2024, Eric Knirk with Fremont Associates, representing FDC
Partners Rancho, LP (hereinafter “applicant”), submitted a request for a Specific Plan Amendment
to allow existing industrial and warehouse uses to be permitted by right in the Rancho Los Amigos
South Campus Specific Plan Flex Tech/Bio-Medical sub-district (“Project”); and
WHEREAS, On June 12, 2024, the applicant was issued a letter deeming the application
incomplete; and
WHEREAS, On July 10, 2024, Tribal notification letters were sent to the Senate Bill 18
contact list from the Native American Heritage Commission, and the required 90-day consultation
period ended on October 8, 2024. No requests for consultation were received; and
WHEREAS, On November 6, 2024, the application was deemed complete after all
required documents were submitted and reviewed; and
WHEREAS, On November 7, 2024, a notice of the public hearing was sent to all tenants
and property owners within 500’ of the subject site and the notice was published in the Downey
Patriot; and
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission held a duly noticed public hearing on November
20, 2024, to consider the proposed Specific Plan Amendment, and after fully considering all oral
and written testimony, facts, and opinions offered at the aforesaid public hearing, adopted this
Resolution; and
WHEREAS, on ______________, 2024, a notice of public hearing by the City Council was
published in Downey Patriot as a 1/8th page ad in accordance with the requirements of the
Downey Municipal Code; and
WHEREAS, the City Council held a duly noticed public hearing on ______________,
2024, to consider this Ordinance approving the proposed Specific Plan Amendment, where all
interested persons were given an opportunity to be heard.
Exhibit - A
PC AGENDA PAGE 12
Resolution No. 24-4040
Downey Planning Commission
NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY DOES
HEREBY ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS:
SECTION 1. The recitals above are each incorporated by reference and adopted as
findings by the City Council.
SECTION 2. The City Council finds and determines that the Project was reviewed for
compliance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), and is categorically exempt
under State CEQA Guidelines Section 15301, Existing Facilities, which consists of the operation,
repair, maintenance, permitting, leasing, licensing, or minor alteration of existing facilities,
involving negligible or no expansion of existing or former use. The Project is also exempt under
CEQA Guidelines Section 15061(b)(3), the “common sense” exemption, where it can be seen
with certainty that there is no possibility that the project will have a significant effect on the
environment. The Project consists of an amendment to the Rancho Los Amigos South Campus
Specific Plan to add existing uses to the permitted land uses table. The Project does not involve
construction of any kind. The existing uses were previously analyzed in the Environmental Impact
Reports for Specific Plan (SP) 88-1 (Rancho Business Center), Specific Plan (SP) 85-1 (Rancho
Los Amigos), Downey Vision 2025 Comprehensive General Plan Update, and the Rancho Los
Amigos South Campus Specific Plan. Therefore, the Project is also exempt pursuant to Public
Resources Code Section 21166 and CEQA Guidelines Section 15162, as the Project consists
entirely of land that has already been subject to an Environmental Impact Report, and no
extenuating circumstances exist that require subsequent environmental review.
SECTION 3. The City Council further finds and determines that:
A.The proposed location of the development and proposed conditions under which it will
be operated or maintained is consistent with the goals and polices embodied in the
General Plan and other applicable plans and policies adopted by the Council. The
project is in conformance with all applicable objectives, policies, and programs specific
in the City’s General Plan. Specifically, the project allows for existing uses to remain
within existing buildings that were designed and constructed to support the existing
uses. The Specific Plan Amendment complies with the following goals, policies and
programs:
Goal 1.1 – Provide sufficient land areas for uses that serve the needs of residents,
visitors, and businesses.
Policy 1.1.1 – Maintain a balance of land uses.
Program 1.1.1.4 – Discourage non-industrial uses into areas designated for
industrial uses.
Policy 1.1.3 – Provide an appropriate amount of land area for business and
employment.
Program 1.1.3.1 – Encourage land uses that generate jobs.
Goal 9.1 – Attract and retain businesses.
Policy 9.1.1 – Develop programs to attract and retain businesses.
Program 9.1.1.2. – Provide incentives for business retention and expansion.
Goal 9.2 – Promote Downey as an employment center.
Policy 9.2.1 – Promote job-generating land uses
Program 9.2.1.3 – Promote employment that increases the daytime population of
Exhibit - A
PC AGENDA PAGE 13
Resolution No. 24-4040
Downey Planning Commission
the city creating customer demand for other businesses
Policy 9.2.2. – Promote employment that increases in various economic sectors to
shield against business cycles.
Program 9.2.2.1. – Promote a diversified employment base with jobs in sectors in
addition to retail sales.
The Specific Plan Amendment allows for existing Downey businesses in the Flex
Tech/Bio-Medical Sub-District to remain as legal uses, rather than nonconforming
uses, through the duration of the ground lease. These existing uses are compatible
with the existing buildings, provide employment opportunities in Downey, and are
currently in market demand. The Specific Plan Amendment retains existing
businesses without impacting the ability to redevelop sites within the Flex Tech/Bio-
Medical Sub District should market conditions warrant redevelopment.
B. The proposed development is in accordance with the purposes and objectives of
Article IX of the Downey Municipal Code (Land Use) and the zone in which the site is
located. The Specific Plan Amendment complies with the Downey General Plan goals
and policies, as listed above. The Specific Plan Amendment enables existing
businesses and buildings to remain without impacting future uses contemplated for
the Flex Tech/Bio-Medical Sub District. The uses allowed under this amendment will
be uses previous conducted at the existing buildings located in the Flex Tech/Bio-
Medical sub-district. The warehouse buildings and business park are supported by the
existing utility infrastructure, not resulting in the need to upgrade such infrastructure
due to an intensity of land uses.
C. The development will not be detrimental to the public health, safety, or welfare of
persons residing or working in or adjacent to such a development, nor detrimental to
properties or improvements in the vicinity or the general welfare of the City. The
Specific Plan Amendment allows for existing uses to remain operating within existing
buildings. These existing uses will continue to conform with the performance and
operating standards of the Downey Municipal Code and the Rancho Los Amigos South
Campus Specific Plan.
D. The Specific Plan and resulting development will be consistent with the provisions of
Article 8 of Chapter 3 of the California Government Code, commencing with Section
65450 as may be subsequently amended by the State. Article 8 of Chapter 3 of the
California Government Code sets forth specific requirements and standards for the
content and adoption of Specific Plans, including that the Specific Plan is consistent
with the City’s General Plan. The Specific Plan Amendment is consistent with the City’s
General Plan, as no amendments are required to the Downey General Plan to
incorporate the proposed Specific Plan Amendment.
SECTION 4. Section 5.4.2 of the Rancho Los Amigos South Campus Specific Plan, Flex
Tech/Bio Medical (FTBM) Sub-District, is hereby amended to include the text below appearing in
italic font:
The intent of the Flex Tech/Bio-Medical Sub-District is to promote job-creating uses in
fields related to surrounding industries. The sub-district seeks to complement the Rancho
Los Amigos Rehabilitation Center to the north, with office/medical office uses that can
provide supportive services to one of the largest medical facilities in the region. The Flex
Tech/Bio-Medical Sub-District would integrate existing uses and plan for the long-term
potential redevelopment of the large industrial facilities currently in use. This Sub-District
Exhibit - A
PC AGENDA PAGE 14
Resolution No. 24-4040
Downey Planning Commission
encourages grouping a range of light industrial, office, and research uses together to
create an innovation hub within Downey.
It is recognized that much of the property within the FTBM Sub-District is subject to long-
term ground leases with the County of Los Angeles as lessor. Such property has been
developed with, among, other things, four large industrial buildings and a four building
business park. These lawful uses and structures that were established before the adoption
of this Specific plan and within the FTBM Sub-District shall be allowed to continue and
operate through the end of the ground lease, which terminates on March 27, 2089. Such
uses and structures may be maintained and repaired through regular maintenance
activities, including all necessary exterior, underground utility, and interior maintenance,
repairs, and replacements. Any future remodels and/or tenant improvements shall be
reviewed in accordance with the City’s routine plan check submittal process. In the event
of partial or complete destruction of any pre-existing structures, such structures may be
repaired and restored to their previous configuration.
SECTION 5. Portions of Table 5-1 of the Rancho Los Amigos South Campus Specific
Plan (Allowable Uses) is hereby amended to include the text below appearing in italic font:
Table 5-1
Allowable Land Uses
Allowed land uses. The land uses and activities permitted by this Specific Plan, and
the land use permit required to establish each use.
Prohibited land uses. Any table cell indicated an “N“ symbol indicates that the listed
land use is prohibited in that specific subdistrict. Any use not listed is thereby prohibited.
Applicable sections. Where the “Notes” column in the table includes a Section number
("See standards in Section"), the regulations in the referenced section apply to the use;
however, provisions in other Sections of this Specific Plan or applicable section of the
RLASCSP may also apply.
“P” = Permitted Use “A” = Ancillary Use (Permitted) “C” = Conditionally
Permitted “N” = Not Permitted
Land Use or Activity Sub-Districts
FTBM RPF TOD CS
WHOLESALE, STORAGE AND DISTRIBUTION USES
Parcel delivery terminals N N N N Permitted within an
“Existing FTBM Building”
as defined in the Downey
Municipal Code
Refrigeration plant N N N N
Self-storage, min-storage,
mini-warehouse,
and recreational
vehicle storage
N N N N
Storage yards
(Commercial)
N N N N
Warehouse (Commercial) N N N N Permitted within an
“Existing FTBM Building”
as defined in the Downey
Municipal Code
Exhibit - A
PC AGENDA PAGE 15
Resolution No. 24-4040
Downey Planning Commission
Wholesale brokers,
jobbers,
dealers, distributors
N N N N Permitted within an
“Existing FTBM Building”
as defined in the Downey
Municipal Code
SECTION 6. If any section, subsection, paragraph, sentence, clause or phrase of this
Ordinance is declared by a court of competent jurisdiction to be unconstitutional or otherwise
invalid, such decision shall not affect the validity of the remaining portion of this Ordinance. The
City Council declares that it would have adopted this Ordinance, and each section, subsection,
sentence, clause, phrase of portion thereof, irrespective of the fact that any one or more sections,
subsections, phrases, or portions be declared invalid or unconstitutional.
SECTION 7. The City Council hereby directs staff to prepare, execute, and file with the
Los Angeles County Clerk a notice of exemption within five (5) working days of the adoption of
this Ordinance.
Exhibit - A
PC AGENDA PAGE 16
Resolution No. 24-4040
Downey Planning Commission
SECTION 8. The City Clerk shall certify to the adoption of this Ordinance and cause the
same to be published in the manner prescribed by law.
APPROVED AND ADOPTED this ___ day of January, 2025
__________________
MARIO TRUJILLO, Mayor
ATTEST:
_____________________
MARIA ALICIA DUARTE, CMC
City Clerk
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
JOHN M. FUNK
City Attorney
I HEREBY CERTIFY that the foregoing Ordinance No. _________ was presented at a
public hearing at a regular meeting of the City Council held on the ___ day of _______________,
2025, and adopted at a regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Downey held on the ___
day of _______________, 2025, by the following vote, to wit:
AYES: Council Members:
NOES: Council Member:
ABSENT: Council Member:
ABSTAIN: Council Member:
I FURTHER CERTIFY that a Summary of the foregoing Ordinance No. _________, was
published in the Downey Patriot, a newspaper of general circulation in the City of Downey, the
___ day of _______________, 2025 (after adoption, including the vote thereon). It was also
posted in the regular posting places in the City of Downey on the same dates.
_____________________
MARIA ALICIA DUARTE, CMC
City Clerk
Exhibit - A
PC AGENDA PAGE 17
RESOLUTION NO. 24 - 4041
A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF
DOWNEY RECOMMENDING APP ROVAL BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF DOWNEY OF A ZONING TEXT AMENDMENT (PLN-24-00060) TO
SECTION 9130 OF ARTICLE IX OF THE DOWNEY MUNICIPAL CODE TO ADD
A DEFINITION OF “EXISTING FTBM BUILDING”
THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY DOES HEREBY RESOLVE AS
FOLLOWS:
SECTION 1. The Planning Commission of the City of Downey does hereby find, determine
and declare as follows:
A.On May 8, 2024, Eric Knirk with Fremont Associates, representing FDC Partners
Rancho, LP (hereinafter “applicant”), submitted a request for a Zoning Text
Amendment to define an “Existing Flex Tech/Bio Medical Building” within the Flex
Tech/Bio Medical (FTBM) sub-district which would be defined as a building that
was established prior to the adoption of the RLASCSP and has operated with
either a Parcel delivery terminal, Warehouse, Logistics facility, Distribution center,
Dispatch facility, Drayage facility, or Wholesale brokers, jobbers, dealers,
distributors, or any other use established prior to the adoption of the (“Project”).
B.On June 12, 2024, the applicant was issued a letter deeming the application
incomplete.
C.On July 10, 2024, Tribal notification letters were sent to the Senate Bill 18 contact
list from the Native American Heritage Commission, and the required 90-day
consultation period ended on October 8, 2024. No requests for consultation were
received.
D.On November 6, 2024, the application was deemed complete after all required
documents were submitted and reviewed.
E.On November 7, 2024, a notice of the public hearing was sent to all tenants and
property owners within 500’ of the subject site and the notice was published in the
Downey Patriot.
F.The Planning Commission held a duly noticed public hearing on November 20,
2024, to consider this proposed Zoning Text Amendment, and after fully
considering all oral and written testimony, facts, and opinions offered at the
aforesaid public hearing, adopted this Resolution.
SECTION 2. The Planning Commission has determined that the proposed Project was
reviewed for compliance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and is categorically
exempt under State CEQA Guidelines Section 15301, Existing Facilities, which consists of the
operation, repair, maintenance, permitting, leasing, licensing, or minor alteration of existing
facilities, involving negligible or no expansion of existing or former use. The Project is also exempt
under CEQA Guidelines Section 15061(b)(3), the “common sense” exemption, where it can be
seen with certainty that there is no possibility that the Project will have a significant effect on the
environment. The Project consists of a text amendment to the Rancho Los Amigos South Campus
Exhibit - B
PC AGENDA PAGE 18
Resolution No. 24-4041
Downey Planning Commission
Specific Plan to add existing uses to the permitted land uses table. The Project does not involve
construction of any kind. The existing uses were previously analyzed in the Environmental Impact
Reports for Specific Plan (SP) 88-1 (Rancho Business Center), Specific Plan (SP) 85-1 (Rancho
Los Amigos), Downey Vision 2025 Comprehensive General Plan Update, and the Rancho Los
Amigos South Campus Specific Plan. Therefore, the Project is also exempt pursuant to Public
Resources Code Section 21166 and CEQA Guidelines Section 15162, as the Project consists
entirely of land that has already been subject to an Environmental Impact Report, and no
extenuating circumstances exist that require subsequent environmental review.
SECTION 3. Having considered all of the oral and written evidence presented to it at said
public hearing regarding the Zoning Text Amendment, and in accordance with Downey Municipal
Code Section 9832.06, the Planning Commission further finds, determines, and declares that:
A. The requested amendment is necessary and desirable for the development of the
community and is in the interests or furtherance of the public health, safety, and general
welfare. The proposed Zoning Text Amendment simply adds a definition for “Existing
FTBM Building” to Downey Municipal Code Section 9130. The definition will describe
certain buildings in the Rancho Los Amigos South Campus Specific Plan Flex Tech/Bio-
Medical sub-district that were established before the adoption of such specific plan in
2021.
B. The proposed amendment is in general conformance with the General Plan. The proposed
Zoning Text Amendment is required to add a definition to the Downey Municipal Code in
order to allow existing uses to continue to utilize existing buildings within the Flex
Tech/Bio-Medical Sub-District of the Rancho Los Amigos South Campus Specific Plan.
The amendment to the Zoning Code is consistent with the following goals and policies of
the General Plan:
Goal 1.1 – Provide sufficient land areas for uses that serve the needs of residents, visitors,
and businesses.
Policy 1.1.1 – Maintain a balance of land uses.
Program 1.1.1.4 – Discourage non-industrial uses into areas designated for
industrial uses.
Policy 1.1.3 – Provide an appropriate amount of land area for business and employment.
Program 1.1.3.1 – Encourage land uses that generate jobs.
Goal 9.1 – Attract and retain businesses.
Policy 9.1.1 – Develop programs to attract and retain businesses.
Program 9.1.1.2. – Provide incentives for business retention and expansion.
Goal 9.2 – Promote Downey as an employment center.
Policy 9.2.1 – Promote job-generating land uses
Program 9.2.1.3 – Promote employment that increases the daytime population of
the city creating customer demand for other businesses\
Policy 9.2.2. – Promote employment that increases in various economic sectors to shield
against business cycles.
Program 9.2.2.1. – Promote a diversified employment base with jobs in sectors in
addition to retail sales.
SECTION 4. Based upon the findings set forth in Sections 1 through 3 of this Resolution,
the Planning Commission of the City of Downey hereby recommends approval by the City Council
Exhibit - B
PC AGENDA PAGE 19
Resolution No. 24-4041
Downey Planning Commission
of a Zoning Text Amendment to Section 9130 of Article IX of the Downey Municipal Code, as
outlined in the draft ordinance attached hereto as Attachment A.
SECTION 5. The Secretary shall certify the adoption of this Resolution.
PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED this 20th day of November 2024.
Carrie Uva, Chair,
City Planning Commission
I HEREBY CERTIFY that the foregoing is a true copy of a Resolution adopted by the Planning
Commission of the City of Downey at a regular meeting thereof, held on the 20th day of
November 2024, by the following vote, to wit:
AYES: COMMISSIONERS:
NOES: COMMISSIONERS:
ABSENT: COMMISSIONERS:
ABSTAIN: COMMISSIONERS:
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
_______________________
John M. Funk
City Attorney
CERTIFICATE OF ATTESTATION AND ORIGINALITY
I, Ria Ioannidis, Recording Secretary, do hereby attest to and certify that the foregoing
Resolution is the original resolution adopted by the Planning Commission of the City of Downey
at a regular meeting held on November 20, 2024.
Ria Ioannidis
Recording Secretary
Exhibit - B
PC AGENDA PAGE 20
Resolution No. 24-4041
Downey Planning Commission
ATTACHMENT A
ORDINANCE NO. _____
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
APPROVING A ZONING TEXT AMENDMENT (PLN-24-00060) TO SECTION
9130 OF ARTICLE IX OF THE DOWNEY MUNICIPAL CODE TO ADD
DEFINITION OF “EXISTING FTBM BUILDING”
WHEREAS, the City of Downey is a Municipal Corporation and Charter City, duly
organized under the constitution and laws of the State of California; and
WHEREAS, On May 8, 2024, Eric Knirk with Fremont Associates, representing FDC
Partners Rancho, LP (hereinafter “applicant”), submitted a request for a Zoning Text Amendment
to define an “Existing Flex Tech/Bio Medical Building” within the Flex Tech/Bio Medical (FTBM)
sub-district which would be defined as a building that was established prior to the adoption of the
RLASCSP and has operated with either a Parcel delivery terminal, Warehouse, Logistics facility,
Distribution center, Dispatch facility, Drayage facility, or Wholesale brokers, jobbers, dealers,
distributors, or any other use established prior to the adoption of the (“Project”).
WHEREAS, On June 12, 2024, the applicant was issued a letter deeming the application
incomplete; and
WHEREAS, On July 10, 2024, Tribal notification letters were sent to the Senate Bill 18
contact list from the Native American Heritage Commission and the required 90-day consultation
period ended on October 8, 2024. No requests for consultation were received; and
WHEREAS, On November 6, 2024, the application was deemed complete after all
required documents were submitted and reviewed; and
WHEREAS, On November 7, 2024, a notice of the public hearing was sent to all tenants
and property owners within 500’ of the subject site and the notice was published in the Downey
Patriot.
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission held a duly noticed public hearing on November
20, 2024, where after fully considering all oral and written testimony, facts, and opinions offered
at the aforesaid public hearing, voted to recommend approval by the City Council of a Zoning Text
Amendment to Section 9130 of Article IX of the Downey Municipal Code to add the definition of
“Existing FTBM Building”; and .
WHEREAS, on ______________, 2025, a notice of public hearing by the City Council was
sent to all tenant and property owners within 500’ of the subject site and the notice was published
in Downey Patriot in accordance with the requirements of the Downey Municipal Code; and
WHEREAS, the City Council held a duly noticed public hearing on ______________,
2025, to consider this Ordinance approving the proposed Zoning Text Amendment, where all
interested persons were given an opportunity to be heard.
Exhibit - B
PC AGENDA PAGE 21
Resolution No. 24-4041
Downey Planning Commission
NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY DOES
HEREBY ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS:
SECTION 1. The recitals above are each incorporated by reference and adopted as
findings by the City Council.
SECTION 2. The City Council finds and determines that the Project was reviewed for
compliance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), and is categorically exempt
under State CEQA Guidelines Section 15301, Existing Facilities, which consists of the operation,
repair, maintenance, permitting, leasing, licensing, or minor alteration of existing facilities,
involving negligible or no expansion of existing or former use. The Project is also exempt under
CEQA Guidelines Section 15061(b)(3), the “common sense” exemption, where it can be seen
with certainty that there is no possibility that the project will have a significant effect on the
environment. The Project consists of a text amendment to the Rancho Los Amigos South Campus
Specific Plan to add existing uses to the permitted land uses table. The Project does not involve
construction of any kind. The existing uses were previously analyzed in the Environmental Impact
Reports for Specific Plan (SP) 88-1 (Rancho Business Center), Specific Plan (SP) 85-1 (Rancho
Los Amigos), Downey Vision 2025 Comprehensive General Plan Update, and the Rancho Los
Amigos South Campus Specific Plan. Therefore, the Project is also exempt pursuant to Public
Resources Code Section 21166 and CEQA Guidelines Section 15162, as the Project consists
entirely of land that has already been subject to an Environmental Impact Report, and no
extenuating circumstances exist that require subsequent environmental review.
SECTION 3. The City Council further finds and determines that:
A. The requested amendment is necessary and desirable for the development of the
community and is in the interests or furtherance of the public health, safety, and
general welfare. The Flex Tech/Bio-Medical sub-district has supported a diverse mix
of uses since 1990, when Los Angeles County leased the land for the business park
and warehouse buildings to a private developer. Some of these existing uses are not
permitted in the Rancho Los Amigos South Campus Specific Plan, therefore, the
adoption of the Specific Plan in 2021 rendered much of the existing industrial business
park and warehouse uses as non-conforming. The County’s lease with the private
developer terminates on March 27, 2089. The amendment allows the private
developer to continue to operate, improve, and invest in their buildings for the duration
of the lease, therefore ensuring the appropriate maintenance of the area. The
proposed Zoning Text Amendment adds a definition for “Existing FTBM Building” to
Downey Municipal Code Section 9130. Adding the definition enables existing uses to
remain and utilize existing buildings.
B. The proposed amendment is in general conformance with the General Plan. The
proposed Zoning Text Amendment is required to add a definition to the Downey
Municipal Code in order to allow existing uses to continue to utilize existing buildings
within the Flex Tech/Bio-Medical Sub-District of the Rancho Los Amigos South
Campus Specific Plan. The amendment to the Zoning Code is consistent with the
following goals and policies of the General Plan:
Goal 1.1 – Provide sufficient land areas for uses that serve the needs of residents,
visitors, and businesses.
Policy 1.1.1 – Maintain a balance of land uses.
Program 1.1.1.4 – Discourage non-industrial uses into areas designated for
Exhibit - B
PC AGENDA PAGE 22
Resolution No. 24-4041
Downey Planning Commission
industrial uses.
Policy 1.1.3 – Provide an appropriate amount of land area for business and
employment.
Program 1.1.3.1 – Encourage land uses that generate jobs.
Goal 9.1 – Attract and retain businesses.
Policy 9.1.1 – Develop programs to attract and retain businesses.
Program 9.1.1.2. – Provide incentives for business retention and expansion.
Goal 9.2 – Promote Downey as an employment center.
Policy 9.2.1 – Promote job-generating land uses
Program 9.2.1.3 – Promote employment that increases the daytime population of
the city creating customer demand for other businesses\
Policy 9.2.2. – Promote employment that increases in various economic sectors to
shield against business cycles.
Program 9.2.2.1. – Promote a diversified employment base with jobs in sectors in
addition to retail sales.
SECTION 4. Section 9130 of the Downey Municipal Code is hereby amended to add the
following additional definition:
“Existing FTBM Building: An existing building in the Rancho Los Amigos South Campus
Specific Plan (RLASCSP) within the Flex Tech/Bio Medical (FTBM) sub district that was
established prior to the adoption of the RLASCSP and has operated with either a Parcel
delivery terminal, Warehouse, Logistics facility, Distribution center, Dispatch facility,
Drayage facility, or Wholesale brokers, jobbers, dealers, distributors, or any other use
established prior to the adoption of the RLASCSP.”
SECTION 5. If any section, subsection, paragraph, sentence, clause or phrase of this
Ordinance is declared by a court of competent jurisdiction to be unconstitutional or otherwise
invalid, such decision shall not affect the validity of the remaining portion of this Ordinance. The
City Council declares that it would have adopted this Ordinance, and each section, subsection,
sentence, clause, phrase of portion thereof, irrespective of the fact that any one or more sections,
subsections, phrases, or portions be declared invalid or unconstitutional.
SECTION 6. The City Council hereby directs staff to prepare, execute, and file with the
Los Angeles County Clerk a notice of exemption within five (5) working days of the adoption of
this Ordinance.
Exhibit - B
PC AGENDA PAGE 23
Resolution No. 24-4041
Downey Planning Commission
SECTION 7. The City Clerk shall certify to the adoption of this Ordinance and cause the
same to be published in the manner prescribed by law.
APPROVED AND ADOPTED this ___ day of January, 2025
__________________
MARIO TRUJILLO, Mayor
ATTEST:
_____________________
MARIA ALICIA DUARTE, CMC
City Clerk
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
JOHN M. FUNK
City Attorney
I HEREBY CERTIFY that the foregoing Ordinance No. _________ was presented at a
public hearing at a regular meeting of the City Council held on the ___ day of _______________,
2025, and adopted at a regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Downey held on the ___
day of _______________, 2025, by the following vote, to wit:
AYES: Council Members:
NOES: Council Member:
ABSENT: Council Member:
ABSTAIN: Council Member:
I FURTHER CERTIFY that a Summary of the foregoing Ordinance No. _________, was
published in the Downey Patriot, a newspaper of general circulation in the City of Downey, the
___ day of _______________, 2025 (after adoption, including the vote thereon). It was also
posted in the regular posting places in the City of Downey on the same dates.
_____________________
MARIA ALICIA DUARTE, CMC
City Clerk
Exhibit - B
PC AGENDA PAGE 24
Exhibit - C
PC AGENDA PAGE 25
Exhibit - C
PC AGENDA PAGE 26
Exhibit - D
PC AGENDA PAGE 27
Exhibit - D
PC AGENDA PAGE 28
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PC AGENDA PAGE 31
Exhibit - E
PC AGENDA PAGE 32
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P
A
G
E
3
3
E
x
h
i
b
i
t
-
E
P
C
A
G
E
N
D
A
P
A
G
E
3
4
E
x
h
i
b
i
t
-
E
P
C
A
G
E
N
D
A
P
A
G
E
3
5
E
x
h
i
b
i
t
-
E
P
C
A
G
E
N
D
A
P
A
G
E
3
6
E
x
h
i
b
i
t
-
E
P
C
A
G
E
N
D
A
P
A
G
E
3
7
E
x
h
i
b
i
t
-
E
P
C
A
G
E
N
D
A
P
A
G
E
3
8
E
x
h
i
b
i
t
-
E
P
C
A
G
E
N
D
A
P
A
G
E
3
9