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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes-10-06-10OV D04, REGULAR MEETING DOWNEY CITY PLANNING COMMISSION Yi s ®' WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER, 6, 2010 CITY COUNCIL CHAMBER, 11111 BROOKSHIRE AVENUE DOWNEY, CALIFORNIA 6:30 P.M. A Regular meeting of the Planning Commission was held October 6, 2010. After the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag, roll was called at 6:30 p.m. COMMISSIONERS PRESENT: Michael Murray, District 1 Robert Kiefer, District 2, Vice Chairman Fernando Vasquez, District 5 Terry Lambros, District 4 Louis Morales, District 3, Chairman ALSO PRESENT: Brian Saeki, Community Development Director Charles Vose, Interim City Attorney John Perfitt, Assistant Community Development Director William Davis, City Planner David Blumenthal, Senior Planner Jessica Flores, Associate Planner Kevin Nguyen, Assistant Planner Theresa Donahue, Secretary III. MINUTES: It was moved by Commissioner Murray, seconded by Commissioner Lambros and passed by a 4 -0 -1 vote, with Chairman Morales abstaining, to approve the Minutes of September 15, 2010. IV. AGENDA CHANGES: Community Development Director Saeki stated there were no changes to the agenda. V. REPORT ON CITY COUNCIL ACTION: Mr. Saeki stated that the City Council, at their regular meeting held September 28, 2010, voted unanimously to introduce the Ordinance for the Downtown Specific Plan (1S Reading). VI. CONSENT CALENDAR ITEMS: There were no Consent Calendar items. VII. PUBLIC HEARING ITEMS: PLN -10 -08078 (SPECIAL EVENT) Location: 12145 Woodruff Avenue Owner /Applicant: Iglesia de Cristo, c/o Pastor Otto R. Azurdia Authorized Agent: Enzo Calandra /Architectural Creations Staff: Kevin Nguyen CEQA: As required by the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), this request has been found to be Categorically Exempt from CEQA, per CEQA Guidelines, Section 15304(e) (Class 4, Minor Alterations to Land). Request: Approval of a Special Event permit to allow Iglesia de Cristo Church to conduct a one -day "Harvest Festival' on Saturday, October 23, 2010 from 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., on property zoned C -1 (Neighborhood Commercial). Chairman Morales opened the public hearing for Special Event, PLN -10- 08078. Ms. Donahue affirmed proof of publication. PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES, OCTOBER 6, 2010 — PAGE 1 Page 2 Assistant Planner, Kevin Nguyen, presented staffs report, accompanied by the PowerPoint presentation. He stated that the church holds this event each year as an outreach to the community. Mr. Nguyen explained that additional off -site parking would be available at nearby sites, in addition to the parking provided by the church on -site. Mr. Nguyen stated staffs recommendation is for approval, with a condition of approval, that the dirt pile that is on the site be removed prior to said activities. Commissioner Murray asked if the letters promising the use of those off -site parking areas had been secured and whether the City had received any complaints regarding last year's event. Mr. Nguyen affirmed that the letters had been secured for the off -site lots and staff was not aware of any complaints from last year. Joel Columbo, 1011 Twin Lakes Dr., Wrightwood, architect/builder and applicant representing the church stated this was the church's 4 th consecutive festival and that they have learned from past events what improvements were needed. These conditions have been incorporated into their program and include: additional off -site parking and staff on the grounds to direct traffic. He noted that the staff would also be picking up trash that accumulated through the day. Mr. Columbo agreed to the conditions of approval, in particular, removal of dirt pile. Chairman Morales asked for any correspondence on the request Mr. Nguyen stated no correspondence had been received. Chairman Morales opened the public hearing up to public comment. There were no persons in the audience wishing to address the Commission on this item. Chairman Morales closed the public hearing. Commission comments The Commissioners were in agreement that the request was pretty straight - forward; all concerns appear to have been addressed; the application is similar to last year's event for which no complaints had been received. The Commission wished the applicants a successful event. It was moved by Commissioner Murray, seconded by Commissioner Kiefer and passed by a unanimous vote, to adopt Resolution No. 10 -2666, approving PLN -10- 08078, Special Event for 12145 Woodruff Avenue. Chairman Morales acknowledged former Councilmember, Meredith Perkins, in the audience. 2. PLN -10 -08004 (CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT) Location: 10711 Paramount Boulevard Owner /Applicant: Messiah Evangelical Lutheran Church of Downey Harry Hem Authorized Agent: Amiee Weeks /Coastal Business Group Staff: David Blumenthal CEQA: As required by the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), this request has been found to be Categorically Exempt from CEQA, per CEQA Guidelines, Section 15301 (Class 1, Existing Facilities). Request: Approval of a request for a Conditional Use Permit to allow a wireless facility with 12 antennas (3 sectors, 4 antennas per sector), within a church steeple, on property zoned C -P (Professional Office). Chairman Morales opened the public hearing for PLN -10- 08004. Ms. Donahue affirmed proof of publication. PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES, OCTOBER 6, 2010 — PAGE 2 Page 3 Senior Planner, David Blumenthal, presented staff's report and accompanying PowerPoint, noting that the site under discussion is located on Paramount Boulevard directly across the street from the future Downtown Specific Plan area. He explained that the requested cellular antennas are to be installed within the existing steeple. He noted that the existing height of the steeple is 48' -9 ", and the proposal would increase this height to 54' -9" (an increase of six feet), in order to stealth the antennas fully within the steeple. Mr. Blumenthal expressed one concern of staff is the exposed cable along the roof, which staff has requested to be housed inside the building or along the ground. Amiee Weeks, 16460 Bake Pkwy, Irvine, Ca. 92618 addressed the Commission, affirming that they had reviewed and accepted all conditions of approval. Commissioner Kiefer inquired about the level of noise generated by the ground- mounted equipment. Ms. Weeks responded, the noise generated by the equipment is very slight, a slight buzz and not at all disruptive. Chairman Morales opened up the public hearing to public testimony, inquiring of staff if any correspondence had been received on this matter. Mr. Blumenthal stated that no correspondence had been received on this matter. In addition, no persons were present to address the Commission on this item. Chairman Morales closed the public hearing. Commission comments: Commissioner Lambros stated that she could support the request since the project would not affect the appearance of the cross. Commissioner Kiefer wished to make sure the applicant had accepted the conditions, including the one mentioned by staff involving the cable. Ms. Weeks affirmed. It was moved by Commissioner Murray, seconded by Commissioner Kiefer and passed by a vote of 5 -0, to adopt Resolution No. 10 -2667 approving PLN -10 -08004 (Conditional Use Permit). Chairman Morales stated the action of the Planning Commission will be final unless the matter is appealed to the City Council, with the appropriate fee, within the specified time period as set forth in the City's Ordinance. 3. PLN -10 -08063 (SPECIAL EVENT) Location: 10441 Downey Avenue Owner /Applicant: Roman Catholic Archbishop of Los Angeles Our Lady of Perpetual Help School Authorized Agent: Steven Csombor Staff: William Davis CEQA: As required by the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), this request has been found to be Categorically Exempt from CEQA, per CEQA Guidelines, Section 15304(e) (Class 4, Minor Alterations to Land). Request: Approval of a Special Event permit to allow the operation of an annual carnival for three consecutive days (October 15, 16, and 17, 2010), in conjunction with the Our Lady of Perpetual Help School, on property zoned R -2 (Multi - Family Residential). Commissioner Morales opened the public hearing for PLN -10 -08063 (Special Event). Ms. Donahue affirmed proof of publication. William Davis, City Planner, presented staff's report and accompanying PowerPoint. He stated that no correspondence had been received from neighbors indicating concerns or issues from the past year's event PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES, OCTOBER 6, 2010 — PAGE 3 Page 4 and that the conditions placed on the last year's event are included this year, as well Chairman Morales recalled from the previous public hearing prior to last year's event, that a resident had indicated a concern with glare created by the rides, and inquired if this had been an issue? Mr. Davis responded that staff had not received comments or complaints following the event of 2009 Commissioner Lambros recalled that this concern involved the taking down of the equipment, which has been more closely monitored and hours restricted. Applicant's agent, Steve Csombar, along with Steffani McMains, Principal of Our Lady of Perpetual Help School, addressed the Commission. Ms. McMains stated that the school had been founded in 1948 and receives no funds from the state, as such this fundraiser is one of only two fundraisers the school endeavors each year. Ms. McMains acknowledged the impact to the neighbors and thanked the community for patience and participation, ensuring the success of this event. Mr. Csombar addressed the Commission, accepting the conditions of approval and affirmed that their crew of parent volunteers diligently pick up trash on an on -going basis throughout the week -end. Chairman Morales invited members of the audience to address the Commission on this matter. No persons came forward to address the Commission. Chairman Morales closed the public hearing. Commission comments: The Commissioners indicated that they were content with the conditions that had been placed on the event; that there were no complaints from last year's event; that the community enjoys the festivities; and they fully supported the request. It was moved by Commissioner Lambros, seconded by Commissioner Murray and passed by a unanimous vote, to adopt Resolution No. 10 -2668 approving PLN -10 -08063 for the Special Event. Chairman Morales stated the action of the Planning Commission will be final unless the matter is appealed to the City Council, with the appropriate fee, within the specified time period as set forth in the City's Ordinance. 4. CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT 10 -13 Location: 7851 Gardendale Street Owner /Applicant: Roman Catholic Archbishop of Los Angeles Education & Welfare Corporation Saint Matthias Catholic High School Authorized Agent: Amiee Weeks Staff: Jessica Flores CEQA: As required by the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), a Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts has been prepared and is available for review. Request: Approval of a Conditional Use Permit to construct a new freestanding wireless telecommunications facility stealthed as a pine tree (monopine) with a total of 13 antennas (12 panel antennas and one parabolic antenna) and six new ground- mounted equipment cabinets, on property zoned R1 -5,000 (Single Family Residential). Chairman Morales opened the public hearing for Conditional Use Permit No. 10 -13. Ms. Donahue affirmed proof of publication. PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES, OCTOBER 6, 2010 — PAGE 4 Page 5 Associate Planner, Jessica Flores, presented staff's report and accompanying PowerPoint showing the applicant's planned freestanding wireless telecommunications facility (mono -pine) on the school site located at 7851 Gardendale Street. She pointed out that the elevation shows the height for the antenna to be 38 -feet, the mono -pine will actually be seven -feet taller, to create the additional "branches" above the antennas to assist in stealthing the antenna panels. Ms. Flores also reviewed the coverage maps, noting that the antennas will provide increased coverage. Commissioner Kiefer asked to clarify the citing of the pine tree and its enclosure. Ms. Flores affirmed that the enclosure is near the grandstands that appear on the site plan, but stated those had been demolished. Commissioner Kiefer asked if the applicant had provided the number of branches per foot (density), noting the City has been very specific on this condition for past mono - pines. Amiee Weeks, representing T- Mobile, stated she has been involved in two other T- Mobile projects that involved pine trees in the City. She believed the required branch density is either 2.5' or 3.5' and that they would be willing to comply with what they have provided in the past. In addition, she asked for clarification for Condition #7 (a request to provide "live plant" screen for the enclosure). Community Development Director Saeki suggested, if it was acceptable to the Planning Commission, that the City Planning Division work with the applicant to determine an acceptable live material. Commissioner Murray addressed Condition #18, (which requires repair of any broken or uneven curb, gutter, sidewalk, driveway, etc...), asking if this was a standardized condition. Mr. Saeki stated this was a template condition and would only be valid if the condition of the property warranted it. Ms. Weeks responded, noting that they were aware that they would be required to repair any damage they might incur. Chairman Morales opened the public hearing to public comment. There were no persons wishing to address the Commission on this matter. The Commissioners indicated that all concerns have been addressed. It was moved by Commissioner Murray, seconded by Commissioner Lambros and passed by a vote of 5 -0, to adopt Resolution No. 10 -2669 approving Conditional Use Permit No. 10 -13 for a new freestanding wireless telecommunications facility stealthed as a pine tree. Chairman Morales stated the action of the Planning Commission will be final unless the matter is appealed to the City Council, with the appropriate fee, within the specified time period as set forth in the City's Ordinance. 5. PLN -10 -08048 (GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT /ZONE CHANGE /SITE PLAN REVIEW/ CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT /PLANNED SIGN PROGRAM) Location: 10441 Lakewood Boulevard Owner /Applicant: Gereis M. Sidaros /C & S Realty Authorized Agent: James and Suzette Phillipy Around the World Children Center, Inc. Staff: Jessica Flores PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES, OCTOBER 6, 2010 — PAGE 5 Page 6 5. PLN -10 -08048 (GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT /ZONE CHANGE /SITE PLAN REVIEW/ CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT /PLANNED SIGN PROGRAM) — (continued from Page 5) CEQA: As required by the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), a Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts has been prepared and is available for review. Request: General Plan Amendment — to change the land use designation from General Commercial to Neighborhood Commercial; Zone Change — to change the zoning from R1 -5,000 (Single Family Residential) to C -1 (Neighborhood Commercial); Site Plan Review — to review new landscape, irrigation, and exterior building design; and Conditional Use Permit — to allow a new daycare and K -5 private elementary school with a total 180 children within a 13,610 sq. ft. tenant space; and Planned Sign Program — new signs for the building, on property zoned C -1 (Neighborhood Commercial). Chairman Morales opened the public hearing for PLN -10- 08048, for property located at 10441 Lakewood Boulevard. Ms. Donahue affirmed proof of publication. Jessica Flores, Associate Planner, presented staffs report and accompanying PowerPoint explaining that the proposed project required approval of five entitlements: 1) General Plan Amendment to change the land use designation from General Commercial (GC) to Neighborhood Commercial (NC); 2) Zone Change from R -1, 5,000 (Single Family Residential) to C -1 (Neighborhood Commercial); 3) Site Plan Review to review new landscape, irrigation and exterior building design; 4) Conditional Use Permit to allow a new daycare and Kindergarten through 5 th grade private elementary school with a total 180 children within a 13,610 square foot tenant space; and 5) Planned Sign Program. She stated staff's recommendation will be that the Commission recommend approval to City Council for the General Plan Amendment and Zone Change; and approve the Site Plan Review and Conditional Use Permit. In addition, Ms. Flores noted that the applicant has requested that the sign program be continued to December 10, 2010, in order to allow more time for the applicant to prepare a detailed sign program. Associate Planner Flores pointed out corrections to clerical errors in the numbering of findings and conditions for the Site Plan Review and Conditional Use Permit resolution (Resolution No. 10- 2672), and pointed out a revision for the Public Works Department Condition No. 16, which was re- written and split into two Conditions (No. 16 and 17). She distributed a new "corrected" Resolution (run on yellow sheets). She reviewed each of the new conditions with the Commission. Ms. Flores' presentation included a review of past approvals on the site, which established the one -story building with 52 off - street parking spaces in 1974, Zone Exception Case No. 1161. Ms. Flores explained that the General Plan designation to Neighborhood Commercial is appropriate since the NC designation is meant to serve as a neighborhood node where residential is nearby, whereas the General Commercial designation is more appropriate for larger commercial lots and would allow for shopping center, automobile dealership, hotels and other more intense uses. She pointed out the residential areas adjacent to the subject site, to the south, west and east. Ms. Flores stated that neighborhood nodes are appropriate for smaller scale businesses that are located close to intersections and residential neighborhoods. Ms. Flores pointed out that the property is currently zoned R -1 5,000 and was developed under a Zone Exception approval (ZEC 1161). This zoning permits residential development. She said that the R -1 5,000 zone is not conducive to the commercial development that exists. Staffs recommendation is to change to C -1 (Neighborhood Commercial), which conforms to the proposed General Plan designation of Neighborhood Commercial. PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES, OCTOBER 6, 2010 — PAGE 6 Page 7 In regards to the Site Plan Review and Conditional Use Permit applications, Ms. Flores described the applicants' planned changes to the building, which involves converting the building from a retail furniture store (Good Nite Sleep Center) into a daycare and private elementary school facility for a maximum of 180 children within a 13,610 square foot unit. She noted that the plans maintain the existing footprint; the changes involve interior tenant improvements to create the different activity /class rooms and utility rooms, facade improvements and landscaping /irrigation upgrades to the site and a proposed 967 square foot fenced, outdoor play area. She stated that the applicant would be able to meet all the applicable development standards, to include exceeding overall landscaping requirements on the site by 3.7% and parking in excess by 2 spaces; noting the one area they will be deficient in is landscaping for the parking lot. Ms. Flores informed the Planning Commissioners that the applicants, Mr. and Mrs. Phillipy, currently own and operate two "Around the World Children's Center, Inc." facilities in the Downtown area, which they plan to combine at this current location, thereby freeing up those two locations to new business opportunities. Commissioner Murray asked Ms. Flores to clarify the drop -off area, the entrances and exits. He noted a concern in regards to the high rate of speed of traffic on Lakewood Boulevard. Commissioner Kiefer also asked staff to clarify the on -site circulation planned for the customers. And Commissioner Vasquez asked if sufficient cueing was available to ensure the safety of vehicles slowing up and entering by the Lakewood entrance. Ms. Flores responded by addressing the proposed circulation plan anticipated for the site. She noted that vehicles would be able to enter and exit either from Lakewood Boulevard or Cherokee Drive; the play area will be set apart by fencing; the parking provided exceeds the City's minimum parking requirement for this use. Commissioner Morales pointed out that the 26 -foot driveway width was adequate room for the back -up, and wide enough to accommodate two -way traffic. Community Development Director Saeki added that the cueing capacity for vehicles entering the site off Cherokee, allows for several cars. (Ms. Flores stated that there was stacking room for eight cars.) Mr. Saeki informed the Commission that during staff's review of the project, staff had considered the issues involving the safety of the children at the drop -off and pick -up location and were satisfied with the plan as presented. He pointed to the applicants' successful track record running two similarly- operated businesses in the City and stated they have earned his confidence in providing for the children's safety. Mr. Saeki informed the Commission that the main reason the applicants wish to relocate, is to consolidate their two schools into one and to own the land. He added that staff is looking forward to these two sites being available for future development in the downtown. Associate Planner Flores stated that City Engineering staff visited the existing school sites and recorded the traffic activity during the peak periods (6 -8 a.m. and 2 -4 p.m.). They determined that the amount of traffic would not be problematic. Richer Laporte, 8201 4 th Street, Ste J, Downey, Ca. 90241 addressed the Commission and introduced the business owners, Mr. James and Mrs. Suzette Phillipy. Mrs. Phillipy addressed the concerns about the drop off area, and explained that they work with the parents to keep the children away from the cars. She stated that they have not needed staff to help at their current locations; however, they intend to offer "drop -off' care, where the parents will not need to leave their cars. Their staff will bring the children into the building. (Commissioner Lambros clarified the ages of the program is 18 months through 5 th grade.) Mrs. Phillipy said their heaviest drop off time is 7:45 -8:30 a.m. and exiting the site from 2:30 — 3:50 p.m. Commissioner Kiefer stated that he is very concerned about the drop off area, mostly for the 3 d 4 th and 5th graders. He asked Mrs. Phillipy to detail the plan for drop- off /pick -ups. PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES, OCTOBER 6, 2010 — PAGE 7 Page 8 Mrs. Phillipy explained that the plan is to have a staff member help the parent bring the child into the building, sign them in and then bring them into the indoor playground. From there the children will be re- directed to their corresponding classrooms. Commissioner Kiefer explained that his concern is for the children's safety in the parking lot. And he thought the lot was tight for 180 children being dropped off and picked up. Mrs. Phillipy explained that their school differs from a public school setting that might release all the kids at once. At the Around the World Children's Center, Inc., each child is picked up individually. Commissioner Lambros asked Mrs. Phillipy to confirm that no child would be released on his own. Mrs. Phillipy stated that she could not foresee a child be released on his own without parental control. She also noted that they have two different schedules, one for the core group, and the other for the extended care program. Because there are two separate schedules, this helps spread out the parents' drop offs /pick -ups. She added that they had never had an incident. She also responded to a question from Commissioner Morales regarding the number of children per classroom, stating there were either 20 -to -1 or 15 -to -1, depending on which the license permits. Commission comments: Commissioner Vasquez stated that he thought this was a great site for the proposed use; and he noted that the applicants have a proven track record with their existing businesses. He said that Commissioner Kiefer's concern is valid, but since the owner /staff will be present during those times he did not foresee the drop -off area being a problem. Commissioner Vasquez also stated that 26 -feet is the standard width for an alley and is adequate to serve the property. Commissioner Murray said he thought there were two issues: First, that this is a retail corridor, and do we want to lose that; second, he said he believes the Phillipy's are very qualified to run the facility at this site. But, if this application is approved, he would require a condition that requires either the parents to walk the child into the building, or the staff takes the child and walks them into the building. No child is allowed to walk from the vehicle to the building unattended. Commissioner Lambros asked if the applicant hadn't already stated that this was their intent. The Commissioners noted that it was not listed as a condition of approval. Commissioner Lambros stated that she is satisfied with the answer and method of operating and is prepared to approve the project. Commissioner Kiefer noted that there are a few issues. He is in favor of the rezoning, but, he has some real concerns about the conditional use permit, where the use is located, how Cherokee Drive will be affected by the additional traffic, and how Lakewood Boulevard will be affected. He commented that although the Phillipys have run two successful businesses, a consolidation of the two daycare /schools, with potentially 180 children, gives him concern. He stated that he isn't sure he'll be able to support it. Chairman Morales stated that the General Plan and zoning are appropriate and consistent with the commercial corridor. He also liked that there would be more opportunity in the downtown with the schools moving out, especially in light of the recently approval Downtown Specific Plan. In terms of the Conditional Use Permit, Chairman Morales stated that he agreed with Commissioner Murray regarding looking at the best uses for that corridor. He pointed to Resolution No. 10 -2672, stating that the Negative Declaration is not referenced. Ms. Flores responded, noting that the Negative Declaration is included with the General Plan Amendment resolution. She stated that the Negative Declaration does include all five entitlements. She then reviewed all the recommended actions, noting that they were listed on the yellow insert. PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES, OCTOBER 6, 2010 — PAGE 8 Page 9 Chairman Morales re- addressed the suggested condition to guide drop -offs. He inquired if the City Attorney wished to address. Interim City Attorney Vose suggested they finalize the language before approving. Community Development Director Saeki suggested language for the new condition, The applicant shall ensure that all children are accompanied by an adult while outside the building ". Following further discussion, the language for Condition No. 6 was modified to read, "The drop off area shall comply with the requirements set forth in the Downey Municipal Code, and the applicant shall provide supervision during drop -off and pick -up of children during school hours." Chairman Morales asked the applicants if they accepted the modified condition. Mrs. Phillipy stated they did. It was moved by Commissioner Murray, seconded by Commissioner Vasquez and passed by a vote of 4 -0 -1, with Commissioner Kiefer voting "No ", to adopt Resolution Nos. 10 -2670 and 10 -2671, recommending to City Council approval of General Plan Amendment and Zone Change, as well as adoption of the Negative Declaration, to City Council; to adopt Resolution No. 10 -2672, approving Site Plan Review and Conditional Use Permit for the project; and adopting a Minute Action continuing the Planned Sign Program to December 1, 2010. Chairman Morales thanked staff and complimented Ms. Flores for a job well -done VIII. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS: Commissioners: 1. Commissioner Kiefer, pointing out the numerous cellular antenna applications that had recently come before the Commission, asked if a map of all the approved cell sites in the City could be prepared, with an explanation of whether they were original or co- locations, which providers operate from it and for what purpose the antennas were installed, ie, improve reception, expand reception, etc. 2. Commissioner Murray thanked Community Development Director, Brian Saeki, for his assistance in having the site on Florence Avenue cleaned up. Mr. Saeki in turn thanked his staff, including Mr. Davis, for their part in reaching the property owner and successfully petitioning the clean -up. Commissioner Murray asked Mr. Saeki to mention the Dine in Downey program planned for next month. Mr. Saeki informed the Commissioners that the City was to join with the Chamber of Commerce on November 13 for this year's Dine in Downey, which will be entitled, "Taste of Downey ", and noted that various service clubs would also be assisting in this year's preparations and the day's events. Commissioner Murray stated he'd seen the report provided by the Green Task Force. He stated that the report provided good information and encouraged its review. Commissioner Murray also commented on the City's nomination for Most Friendly City and placement on the final list. IX. OTHER BUSINESS: Staff: 1. Assistant Community Development Director, John Perfitt, informed the Commission of a couple of upcoming projects: 1) For the Commission's next meeting, October 20th, staff planned on bringing two large projects; the first involving the reuse of the Verizon building on 2n Street and Downey Avenue; and 2) the Gateway project (southwest corner of Downey Avenue and Firestone Blvd.) Responding to the Commission's inquiries, Mr. Perfitt stated that the City has not received a concrete project for the Lakewood Boulevard /Gallatin Road intersection. He also noted that the City has been working with the property owners of the World of Decor site (11111 Florence Avenue.) 2. Community Development Director Saeki affirmed that the City of Downey has placed as a finalist (one of five) for the Most Friendly City. Mr. Saeki credited staff, along with the Commission and Chamber of Commerce, for their contributions to achieve this recognition. X. ITEMS FOR FUTURE AGENDA: No additional future agenda items were discussed. PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES, OCTOBER 6, 2010 — PAGE 9 Page 10 XI. ADJOURNMENT: There being no further business to come before the Planning Commission, the Commission adjourned at 8:00 p.m., to October 20, 2010 at 6:30 p.m. at Downey City Hall, 11111 Brookshire Avenue, Downey, Ca., APPROVED AND ADOPTED this 20th day of October, 2010. Louis Morales Louis Morales, Chairman CITY PLANNING COMMISSION I HEREBY CERTIFY that the foregoing Minutes were duly approved at a Regular meeting of the Planning Commission held on the 20th day of October, 2010, by the following vote: AYES: COMMISSIONERS: Murray, Kiefer, Vasquez, Lambros, Morales ABSENT: COMMISSIONERS: None Theresa Donahue Theresa Donahue, Secretary CITY PLANNING COMMISSION HAPLANNING \PC Min utes - 2010 \Oct 6, 2010 - Minutes.doc PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES, OCTOBER 6, 2010 — PAGE 10