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HomeMy WebLinkAboutPC Minutes - 09/21/2011MINUTES REGULAR MEETING DOWNEY CITY PLANNING COMMISSION WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 21, 2011 CITY COUNCIL CHAMBER, 11111 BROOKSHIRE AVENUE DOWNEY, CALIFORNIA 6:30 P.M. I. A Regular meeting of the Planning Commission was held September 21, 2011. After the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag, roll was called at 6:30 p.m. II. COMMISSIONERS PRESENT: Hector Lujan, District 5 Ernie Garcia, District 4 Louis Morales, District 3 Michael Murray, District 1, Vice-Chairman Robert Kiefer, District 2, Chairman ALSO PRESENT: Brian Saeki, Director of Community Development Yvette M. Abich Garcia, City Attorney David Blumenthal, Senior Planner Kevin Nguyen, Assistant Planner Theresa Donahue, Secretary III. MINUTES: It was moved by Commissioner Murray, seconded by Commissioner Morales and passed by a vote of 4-0-1, with Commissioner Garcia abstaining, to approve the Minutes of September 7, 2011, as presented. 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 there were no Planning-related items addressed at the September 13, 2011 City Council meeting. VI. CONSENT CALENDAR ITEMS: 1. One-year time extension for Site Plan Review No. 09-71, an application for a six-story, 50-unit nd apartment development (View Apartments) at 8214 2 Street, zoned Downtown Downey Specific Plan. It was moved by Commissioner Morales, seconded by Commissioner Murray and passed by a 5-0 vote, to adopt a Minute Action approving the Consent Calendar. VII. PUBLIC HEARING ITEMS: 1. PLN-11-00209 (SPECIAL EVENT) Location: 10924 Paramount Boulevard Owner/Applicant: Carico Investments, LLC Authorized Agent: Sergio Vazquez 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 (Class 4, Minor Alterations to Land). Request: A request to conduct an Oktoberfest celebration on the parking lot of the Downey Brewing Company Restaurant on October 15, 2011, on property zoned DDSP (Downtown Downey Specific Plan), Chairman Kiefer opened the public hearing for PLN-11-00209 (Special Event). PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES, SEPTEMBER 21, 2011 – PAGE 1 Page 2 Ms. Donahue affirmed proof of publication. Senior Planner, Blumenthal presented staff’s report and accompanying PowerPoint to the Planning Commissioners. He stated staff’s recommendation is for approval of the requested event to be held th on October 15 , from 5 p.m. to 12 Midnight. Mr. Blumenthal also pointed out staff’s recommendation (Condition #3) is that the live music be disbanded at 10 p.m., rather than at 11:00 p.m., as the applicant has requested, in order to lessen any negative impact to the surrounding residences. He also reviewed the proposed on-site (12 spaces) and off-site parking (public parking three blocks away. He noted that the applicant would purchase a permit for the use of those spaces through the Public Works Dept. Commissioner Murray stated that he would like to have the applicant encourage their customers to use the public parking spaces, so as not to impact the neighboring businesses. Mr. Blumenthal responded, the applicant has agreed to provide a sign directing patrons to the parking areas. He also affirmed that the outside celebrat ion would be limited to 21-years and older, while the applicant may allow patrons into the restaurant for dining. He also noted that the applicant has had similar events here and there were no known problems reported. The Planning Commissioners addressed the following concerns: 1) Should the driveway off Paramount Boulevard by closed off due to its prox imity to the tent? Mr. Blumenthal responded, the driveway needed to remain accessible for emergency vehicle purposes. 2) Under what type of request might a public parking permit be denied; and would the public parking be restricted to this event alone? Mr. Blumenthal stated that it was not possible for the City to close the public parking areas to other vehicles. The applicant, Sergio Vazquez, 10023 Chatzee Drive, Whittier, Ca. addressed the Commissioners with the following: 1) This is their third such event they are planning to host; 2) It has occurred outside on the patio and under a tent, but this year they are reducing the scope in order to provide some on- site parking for the emergency vehicles. He ex plained that the Department of Alcohol and Beverage Control requires they install an 8-foot high chain link fence to restrict to ticket-holders only. Mr. Vazquez asked the Commissioners to allow the music to be permitted until 11 p.m., noting that they had shut the band down at 10 p.m. and there had been no complaints. He noted that other events have been allowed to have outside entertainment until 10:30 p.m. He stated that they would like to allow an additional hour, because many customers do not arrive until after 9:00; and they would still use the last hour for cleaning up the parking lot area. He described the music that would be playing as traditional German folksongs, and would involve guitars and accordions. Mr. Vazquez stated that it is their desire to be good neighbors and if they were to receive any complaints, they would adjust the volume. Also, if the police were called, the police can still shut the music down at any time. He stated that they would employ three (3) security personnel to cover the event, one for each entrance. He informed the Commission that although they can allow up to 300 people, they are only selling 200 tickets, thereby a llowing for the potential guests to come with ticket holders. Chairman Kiefer asked if any correspondence had been received on this matter. Senior Planner Blumenthal stated there was none, either in favor or opposition. Chairman Kiefer invited members of the audience to address the Commission on this item. No persons came forward at this time. Chairman Kiefer closed the public hearing. PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES, SEPTEMBER 21, 2011 – PAGE 2 Page 3 Planning Commission discussion: The Planning Commissioners stated their support for the proposed local event. Commissioner Murray stated his support, noting that the only discussion will probably be about what time to stop the band. He explained that his first inclination would be to have the band stop playing at 10 p.m., so as to be considerate of those residents living nearby. Commissioner Garcia stated that he could support the applicant’s request to extend the music to 11 p.m., noting that there were no complaints from last year’s Oktoberfest; the event will be on Saturday night; and the applicant is asking to give them this opportunity to prove they can be a good neighbor. Chairman Kiefer stated his agreement with Commissioner Murray, noted that he is supportive of the celebration. He also wished to be considerate of the neighboring residents, recommending the band stop at 10 p.m. and cleaning up to end at 11 p.m. Commissioner Morales stated that he supported allowing a day of cultural celebration. He noted that while he is sensitive to the residents living the area, he could support a later time because the event will be maintained within the tent area and because of the nature of the type of music. He stated it is his preference to look at each Special Event individually, and under these particular circumstances, and at this location because the applicant has shown his commitment to completing each of the City’s requirements in the past, he is leaning toward allowing an addition ½ -hour to an hour of music. He supports the concept of the annual Oktoberfest event and would like to assist the applicant in growing its success. Commissioner Lujan stated he is a traditionalist person and as a teacher can support folklore music and can support allowing the addition half hour for the music, as a compromise. Chairman Kiefer responded, his concern is in regards to the customers walking through the streets to get to the public parking areas at 11:00 p.m. He also pointed out that allowing an event to 11 p.m. could set a precedent for other businesses in the area, therefore he preferred 10 p.m., which created less of an impact to the neighborhood. Commissioner Murray agreed, noting his concern is for the residential and the music resonating behind the property to the residences. Commissioner Morales stated that he thought it would not be a problem to allow the event until 10:30 p.m., based on how the applicant has performed at the la st two events, and would like to see how this one works out. It was moved by Commissioner Morales, seconded by Commissioner Garcia and passed by a vote of 3-2, with Commissioner Lujan, Garcia and Morales voting “Aye”, and Commissioner Murray and Chairman Kiefer voting “No” to adopt Resolution No. 11-2729, revising Condition No. 3, to allow the music to continue until 10:30 p.m. Chairman Kiefer congratulated the applicant for his approval and wished him much success. In addition, Chairman Kiefer 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. PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES, SEPTEMBER 21, 2011 – PAGE 3 Page 4 2. PLN-11-00197 (SPECIAL EVENT) Location: 10441 Downey Avenue Owner: Roman Catholic Archbishop of L.A. Applicant: Ms. Steffani McMains/Our Lady of Perpetual Help School 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 (Class 4, Minor Alterations to Land). Request: A request to permit the operation of a three-day outdoor carnival on October 14, 15, 16, 2011, in conjunction with the Our Lady of Perpetual Help School, on property zoned R-3 (Multi-Family Residential). Chairman Kiefer opened the public hearing for PLN-11-00197 (Special Event). Ms. Donahue affirmed proof of publication. Kevin Nguyen, Assistant Planner, presented staff’s report and accompanying PowerPoint, noting that the proposed carnival is an annual event supported by the Planning Division with the conditions as recommended, including: security provided by prof essionals (Downey Police, in this instance) is mandatory, parking is being provided at the school and church sites (south of the school). Chairman Kiefer inquired if the parking agreements as provided last year would also be in effect. Mr. Nguyen stated that the available parking would be similar as to last year. th Commissioner Morales noted that the parking from the church at Downey Avenue and 7 Street had been utilized last year, and probably would be used again. Steve Csombor, 12422 Woodridge, Whittier, 90605, applicant’s representative and carnival chairman, addressed the Commission. He confirmed that 30 parking spaces would be provided on-site; in addition, there is parking provided in the lot immediately adjacent/south of the school, and in the parking lot of the th church; however, he noted that the church at 7 and Downey Avenue was not providing parking for this event. Commissioner Morales responded, that perhaps he was thinking of their 100-year anniversary celebration. Commissioner Murray asked and affirmed clean-up plans and the location of the music stage, which was positioned centrally in the lot. Chairman Kiefer asked staff for correspondence. Assistant Planner, Kevin Nguyen stated that no correspondence had been received on this matter. Chairman Kiefer invited members of the public to address the Commission. No persons came forward at this time. Commission discussion: Commissioner Lujan stated that he has attended the carn ivals over the years, and noted they are very family-oriented; very calm. He not ed that he has enjoyed the events. Commissioner Garcia shared that his children have attended Our Lady of Perpetual Help school, and he has always been supportive of this event. He agreed; it is always peaceful. PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES, SEPTEMBER 21, 2011 – PAGE 4 Page 5 Commissioner Murray agreed, noting that he is not aware of any problems fr om last year’s event. Commissioner Morales noted that the conditions in place today are the result of past years’ events and discussions held following those events; adding that the imposition of these conditions has led to more smoothly run events, happier neighbors and less complaints. Chairman Kiefer agreed that this was a s pecial event that many residents enjoyed. It was moved by Commissioner Murray, seconded by Commissioner Lujan and passed by a 5-0 vote, to adopt Resolution No. 11-2730, approving PLN-11-00197 as recommended. Chairman Kiefer 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-11-00180 (SITE PLAN REVIEW) Location: 9520 Stewart & Gray Road Owner/Applicant: Hager Regentview Partner Authorized Agent: Phil Stutzel/Cummins Cal Pacific, LLC 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 15303 (Class 3, New Construction or Conversion of Small Structures). Request: A request to construct a 900 square foot (20’ x 45’), freestanding shade structure (unenclosed) in order to conduct the exterior repair and maintenance of buses and trucks on property, zoned M-2 (General Manufacturing). Chairman Kiefer opened the public hearing for PLN-11-00180, Site Plan Review. Ms. Donahue affirmed proof of publication. Kevin Nguyen, Assistant Planner, presented staff’s report and accompanying PowerPoint. He stated staff supported the applicant’s request to permit an unenclosed shade structure on the property, but wanted to make clear that the second part of the applicant’s request, to permit a dynamometer is not apart of this review. He noted that additional studies are required before staff can present that request to the Commission. Mr. Nguyen provided recommended changes to staff’s recommended conditions of approval, as follows: Condition No. 1, “ except that the installation and use of the dynamometer is not included in this add, approval.” Condition No. 3, “part of this application. If proposed, the applicant shall return to the strike Planning Commission at a later date to include this request..”, and which add a new condition (No. 9), reads, “The Owner/Applicant agrees, as a condition of approval of this resolution, to indemnify, defend and hold harmless, at Applicant's expense, City and City's agents, officers and employees from and against any claim, action or proceeding commenced within the time period provided in Government Code Section 66499.37 to attack, review, set aside, void or annul the approval of this resolution, to challenge the determination made by City under the California Environmental Quality Act or to challenge the reasonableness, legality or validity of any condition attached hereto. City shall promptly notify Applicant of any such claim, action or proceeding to which City receives notice, and City will cooperate fully with Applicant in the defense thereof. Applicant shall reimburse the City for any court costs and attorney's fees that the City may be required to pay as a result of any such claim, action or proceeding. City may, in its sole discretion, participate in the defense of any such claim, action or proceeding, but such participation shall not relieve Applicant of the obligations of this condition. City Attorney, Yvette Abich Garcia, stated that this new condition was added at her recommendation, and is viewed as fairly standard language, to reduce the City’s exposure to potential liabilities. PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES, SEPTEMBER 21, 2011 – PAGE 5 Page 6 Mr. Nguyen stated that the applicant had reviewed the changes that are being requested. Phil Stutzel, 9520 Stewart & Gray Road, addressed the Commission, stating that he had reviewed and accepted the changes as suggested. He informed t he Commission that they have greatly improved the property to the cost of 2 million dollars; in addition, t hey are creating jobs. Mr. Stutzel explained that the shade structure is for diagnostic testing and steam cleaning, while any repairs will be completed within the building. He noted they had signed a hold-harmless and submitted the plans in order to have them plan checked while awaiting Planning Commissi on approval; and those plans are now approved. Chairman Kiefer asked staff to present any correspondence. Mr. Nguyen stated that no correspondence had been received on this matter. Chairman Kiefer invited those in the audience to address the Commission at this time, either in favor or opposition. No persons came forward to address the Commission on this matter. Chairman Kiefer closed the public hearing. Commission discussion: Commissioner Morales stated this was a straight-forward request; there are no items he needs to address further. Chairman Kiefer noted that he was in agreement; everything appears to be in order and he would like to move forward. Commissioners Lujan and Murray affirmed their agreement. It was moved by Commissioner Murray, seconded by Commissioner Lujan and passed by a unanimous vote, to adopt Resolution No. 11-2731, modifying Conditions 1 & 3, and adding a new Condition #9, as stated. Commissioner Murray thanked the applicant for investing his business dollars in the City of Downey. Chairman Kiefer 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. Commissioner Murray acknowledged Councilman Vazquez in the audience. 4. PLN-11-00191 (CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT) Location: 251 Stonewood Street Owner/Applicant: Macerich Stonewood LLC Authorized Agent: Ryan McDonald 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 15303 (Class 3, New Construction or Conversion of Small Structures). Request: A request to construct a 24-hour drive-thru ATM, within the parking lot of the Stonewood Center, zoned SP 89-1 (Stonewood Specific Plan). Chairman Kiefer opened the public hearing for PLN-11-00191, Conditional Use Permit. Ms. Donahue affirmed proof of publication. PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES, SEPTEMBER 21, 2011 – PAGE 6 Page 7 Senior Planner, David Blumenthal, presented staff’s r eport and accompanying PowerPoint, showing that the ATM would require the loss of 16 parking spaces, but noted the mall has an overage of spaces and the loss will not be a problem. He stated staff was able to make the findings in a positive way; that the signage is being addressed and staff is satisfied with the lighting provided. Responding to questions from the Commission, Mr. Blumenthal stated that t he driveways accessing Acapulco Restaurant will not be impeded. Commissioner Lujan asked to confirm the location of the atm that will be used for the structure. Mr. Blumenthal affirmed, noting that the PowerPoint may be misleading, but the location of the atm as noted on the site plan is correct. Ryan McDonald, applicant, 2040 Cecilia Circle, Corona, 92881 addressed the Commission, noting that he had reviewed and accepted staff’s recommended conditions of approval. He stated that he had no concerns to address. Charlie Hallums, Senior Property Manager for Stonewood Shopping Center, 7 Santa Rida, Irvine, 92606 also addressed the Commission, noting that he had no issues or concerns. Chairman Kiefer asked, if approved, what w ould be the anticipated time frame to build. Mr. McDonald responded, once the plans are approved, it takes about two weeks to construct. He affirmed the structure was open 24-hours. Commissioner Murray noted the location was well-lit and in the open. Chairman Kiefer asked staff for any correspondence received. Senior Planner Blumenthal responded, one letter was received from a resident in the neighborhood, and had been included in the staff report. He noted the letter was in support. Chairman Kiefer invited members of the audience to address the Commission. There were no persons in the audience wishing to address the Commission at this time. There being no further comments, Chairman Kiefer closed the public hearing. Commission comments: Commissioner Morales noted that his initial concern when reviewing the site plan was regarding the queuing of the vehicles, but those concerns have been alleviated; he sees there is ample room. He stated he saw no negative impacts, other than the loss of spaces which will be felt during the holidays. Commissioner Lujan agreed, the project looked good, agreeing that the lost spaces would be noticed during Christmas time; but he stated that he believed the project was a good one. Commissioner Garcia stated he was in support; liked that the lighting was good thereby creating a safer environment. Commissioner Murray stated his support, noting that a drive-up location is better than one where a customer needs to get out of his/her car. Chairman Kiefer stated his position, that all concerns have been addressed and the project could only be positive for the residents in the area. It was moved by Commissioner Murray, seconded by Commissioner Garcia and passed by a 5-0 vote of the Commission, to adopt Resolution No. 11-2732, approving PLN-11-00191, Site Plan Review. PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES, SEPTEMBER 21, 2011 – PAGE 7 Page 8 Chairman Kiefer 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-11-00220 (SPECIAL EVENT) Location: 251 Stonewood Street Owner/Applicant: Macerich Stonewood LLC Authorized Agent: Maxson Smith/Atomic Eats 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 15304 (Class 4, Minor Alterations to Land). Request: A request to conduct a gourmet food truck rally within the parking lot of Stonewood Center from 11:00 a.m. until 7:00 p.m. on the following days: October 15 & 16, 2011; October 29 & 30, 2011; and November 12 & 13, 2011, on property zoned SP 89-1 (Stonewood Specific Plan). Chairman Kiefer opened the public hearing for PLN-11-00220, Special Event. Ms. Donahue affirmed proof of publication. Senior Planner, David Blumenthal presented staff’s report and accompanying PowerPoint. He indicated staff’s support for the three week-end event. He noted that staff encouraged the applicant to choose dates that would not impact the parking, such as around Thanksgiving and Christmas. In addition, he stated, that if successful, any future such rallies woul d be addressed under a different application request; most likely a temporary use permit application. He responded to Commission comments and concerns, noting the following: 1) The Special Event permit allows for up to four (4) events per year; 2) There are no sales tax associated with food sales; 3) Applying for a Business License is a requirement of the Municipal Code. Maxson Smith, applicant, 1600 Marguerite, Corona Del Mar, along with Charlie Hallums, 7 Santa Rida, Ivine, addressed the Planning Commissioners and provided the following: 1) During their discussions, they have decided to reduce the number of days of the events to one per weekend, thereby modifying the dates to Saturdays, only: October 16, October 29, and November 12, 2011; 2) They will not be providing seating and tables, because that is not how these events operate successfully. Mr. Hallums informed the Commission that the center wanted to try something new and interesting for their customers. Chairman Kiefer asked if Mr. Hallums had received any feedback from the other food tenants in the mall? Mr. Hallums replied that he had not, nor did he expect a negative response from anybody. He explained that this is a different crowd than those that frequent the existing restaurants. Commissioner Kiefer inquired as to the number of trucks involved. Mr. Smith responded that there would be no more than 15 gourmet food trucks participating. Also, in response to other questions raised, Mr. Smith said they would be advertising in local papers; they are not planning any music to be involved at this first event, however they’d like to have the option for music at future events; people normally do not stay more than 15-20 minutes; they do manage their trash with constant vigilance and picking up; the foods vary in style from as simple as grilled cheese to Asian foods and everything in between. City Attorney asked to clarify the dates of the events. PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES, SEPTEMBER 21, 2011 – PAGE 8 Page 9 Mr. Smith stated the new dates to be October 16, October 29 and November 12. Commissioner Murray stated that Condition No. 1 should be modified thus. Commissioner Lujan corrected the dates to be October 15, (a Saturday), October 29 and November 12. Chairman Kiefer asked if any correspondence had been received on this matter. Mr. Blumenthal responded, one letter had been included in the Commissioners packets. This is the same neighbor who’d commented on the earlier request, however, in this case, he has written a letter in opposition. Chairman Kiefer invited comments from the audience. No persons addressed the Commission at this time. Commission discussion: Chairman Kiefer stated that he saw this as a uni que opportunity; his original concern was that the managers of center might have some concerns, but seeing that he is here showing support, then he agrees it is worth a try. Commissioner Lujan said he would like to see how the event works out, noting that he has heard of them, but never experienced one. Commissioner Garcia said he looked forward to seeing the variety of foods. Commissioner Murray noted that his first thought was that the event did not make sense, taking away from the existing restaurants; but, after doing his homework he found out that these events can bring in 1,000 to 1500 people, which can benefit the shopping mall. He said it is important that the City of Downey try new ideas. Commissioner Morales shared that he was learning more about how these events run, and he was looking forward to find out how it would be received by our City. It was moved by Commissioner Garcia, seconded by Commissioner Lujan and passed by a vote of 5-0, to adopt Resolution No. 11-2733, approving PLN-11-00220, Special Event, modifying Condition No. 1, to eliminate the Sunday dates, by including October 15, October 29 and November 12, only. Chairman Kiefer 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. 6. PLN-11-00101 (SITE PLAN REVIEW) Location: 7862 Firestone Boulevard Owner/Applicant: Tomas Santos Authorized Agent: Robert Passarelli 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 15303 (Class 3, New Construction or Conversion of Small Structures). Request: A request to construct a 2,700 square foot, one-story addition to an existing 3,800 square foot medical office building, on property zoned C-2 (General Commercial) Chairman Kiefer opened the public hearing for PLN-11-00101, Site Plan Review. Ms. Donahue affirmed proof of publication. PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES, SEPTEMBER 21, 2011 – PAGE 9 Page 10 Senior Planner, David Blumenthal, presented staff’s report and accompanying PowerPoint, reviewing the elevations and landscaping plan for the proposed 2,700 square foot addition to the existing 3,800 square foot medical office building. He stated that the parking requirements for the building are calculated for medical office use, and will total 33 spaces. He handed out a materials board to the Commissioners to review as he presented, noting that graffiti-resistant materials will be utilized, as required by Code. In addition, he reviewed the proposed landscape plan. Mr. Blumenthal noted that all seven findings can be made in a positive manner; therefore staff can support the requested addition. He responded to a question by Commissioner Murray, noting the location of the proposed trash enclosure, while the medical waste disposal will be located within the building. Robert Passarelli, applicant’s representative, architect and contractor, 13104 Philadelphia Street, Ste 207, Whittier, Ca. addressed the Commission. He stated that the proposed addition will greatly improve the subject site and in doing so, he will be adding jobs and increase revenues for the City; a benefit to the community. He stated that he had reviewed the conditions of approval and accepted them as proposed. Chairman Kiefer asked staff for any correspondence that may have been received. Senior Planner Blumenthal stated that no correspondence had been received on this item. Chairman Kiefer invited members of the audience to address the Commission. No one came forward to address the Commission. Chairman Kiefer closed the public hearing. Commission discussion: Chairman Kiefer stated that he liked the proposal; that the auto shop next door to this site has been well- maintained, the architecture is well-done; and this project will be a great improvement to this area of Firestone Boulevard. Commissioner Lujan agreed; stated that he was glad to see the business flourishing, and was supportive of the creation of additional jobs, hoping Downey residents would be hired. Commissioner Morales noted this project will be a major improvement to this area, and he looked forward to its positive affect on this and surrounding properties, especially this corridor between here and La Reina Avenue. Chairman Kiefer added that he was happy that the property would provide sufficient parking. Commissioner Murray stated his support; liked the design of the building, blending well with the adjacent building. Commissioner Garcia agreed. He was happy that more jobs were being created, as well. Commissioner Morales added that this is a unique situation where a nonconforming building will be greatly improved, while maintaining its nonconformity It was moved by Commissioner Kiefer, seconded by Commissioner Murray and passed by a unanimous vote, to adopt Resolution No. 11-2734, approving PLN-11-00101, as presented. Chairman Kiefer 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. PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES, SEPTEMBER 21, 2011 – PAGE 10 Page 11 VIII. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS : 1. Commissioner Murray stated that the Asphalt Plant had begun production, noting that the tax dollars from the sales would be a great boon to the City. He also mentioned that he would be participating with the Sister Cities trip to Ensenada. 2. Chairman Kiefer inquired about the former Galla tin Medical property on Paramount Boulevard, th th between 5 and 7 . Community Development Director Saeki responded, the Commission should be reviewing plans early next year for a proposed 20,000 square foot (minimum) state of the art medical building; adding that the existing buildings will be demolished prior to the approval of plans. Mr. Saeki stated that the property owner, Whittier Presbyterian Hospital had graciously given approval for the City’s Police and Fire Departments to perform some departm ent performance testing on site. IX. OTHER BUSINESS: No other business was discussed. X. ITEMS F OR FUTURE AGENDA: Mr. Saeki shared with the Planning Commissioners that City Planner, William Davis’ father had fallen seriously ill, and asked that they keep him in their thoughts. Chairman Kiefer noted that they certainly would. Commissioner Murray drew out a student of Cal State Fullerton from the audience. She noted that she was taking an Urban Planning class. Commissioner Murray also acknowledged Jerry Andrews, in the audience. XI. ADJOURNMENT: There being no further business to come before the Planning Commission, the Commission adjourned at 8:08 p.m., to October 5, 2011 at 6:30 p.m. at Downey City Hall, 11111 Brookshire Avenue, Downey, Ca., APPROVED AND ADOPTED this 5th day of October, 2011. Robert Kiefer Robert Kiefer, 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 5th day of October, 2011, by the following vote: AYES: COMMISSIONERS: Lujan, Garcia, Morales, Kiefer ABSENT: COMMISSIONER: Murray ABSTAIN: COMMISSIONERS: None NOES: COMMISSIONERS: None Theresa Donahue Theresa Donahue, Secretary CITY PLANNING COMMISSION H:\Community Development\Planning Comm ission\Minutes\2011\Sept 21, 2011-Minutes.doc PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES, SEPTEMBER 21, 2011 – PAGE 11