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HomeMy WebLinkAboutPC Minutes - 09/07/2011MINUTES REGULAR MEETING DOWNEY CITY PLANNING COMMISSION WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2011 CITY COUNCIL CHAMBER, 11111 BROOKSHIRE AVENUE DOWNEY, CALIFORNIA 6:30 P.M. I. A Regular meeting of the Planning Commission was held September 7, 2011. After the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag, roll was called at 6:30 p.m. II. COMMISSIONERS PRESENT: Louis Morales, District 3 Michael Murray, District 1, Vice-Chairman Hector Lujan, District 5 Robert Kiefer, District 2, Chairman COMMISSIONERS ABSENT: Ernie Garcia, District 4 ALSO PRESENT: Brian Saeki, Community Development Director Yvette Abich Garcia, City Attorney William Davis, City Planner Theresa Donahue, Secretary III. MINUTES: It was moved by Commissioner Morales, seconded by Commission Lujan, and passed by a vote of 4-0-1, with Commissioner Garcia absent, to approve the Minutes of August 17, 2011, as presented. IV. AGENDA CHANGES: No changes were indicated. V. REPORT ON CITY COUNCIL ACTION: Community Development Director Saeki reported the actions of the City Council from their August 23, 2011, meeting included: the adoption of an Urgency Ordinance complying with provisions of Assembly Bill 1 X 27 ( AB1X27), and electing to implement participation by the City of Downey. (The voluntary alternative Redevelopm ent Program pursuant to part 1.9 of Division 24 of the California Health and Safety Code in order to permit the continued existence and operation of the Community Development Commission of the City of Downey.) VI. CONSENT CALENDAR ITEMS: Chairman Kiefer noted there were no Consent Calendar items. VII. PUBLIC HEARING ITEMS: 1. PLN-11-00181 (CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT) Location: 8350 Florence Avenue Owner/Applicant: Jaime Lopez Authorized Agent: Ali Dibaei 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 15301 (Class 1, Existing Facilities). Request: A request for approval of a conditional use permit to allow the Downey Memorial Christian Church property at 8441 Florence venue and zoned C-P (Professional Offices), as a substitute location for three (3) off-street parking spaces required for a proposed dental office use at 8350 Florence Avenue, zoned C-P (Professional Offices), to comply with section 9712 of the Downey Municipal Code. PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES, SEPTEMBER 7, 2011 – PAGE 1 Page 2 Chairman Kiefer opened the public hearing for PLN-11-00181. Ms. Donahue affirmed proof of publication. William Davis, City Planner, presented staff’s report and accompanying PowerPoint. He indicated staff supported the request, since the deficient parking spaces are to be provided at a nearby business which meets the requirements of the Municipal Code within 660 feet from the applicant’s location. Commissioner Murray noted that the walking distance to the church would be further than 660 feet, and suggested that the employees be the ones required to parking there. Mr. Davis answered questions from the Chairman and Commissioners, providing the following information: the applicant, Pedro Rodriguez, plans to utilized the first floor of the building for his dental practice, while the property owner of 8350 Florence Avenue will continue to lease the second story for office space; the actual walking distance may be further than 660 feet, but the driving distance is within that range; the number of spaces needed has been revised from two (2) to three (3) parking spaces, due to the required handicapped parking space, which takes up two spaces. The Church operators of the property at 8441 Florence Avenue agree to the additional parking space and are willing to modify that agreement accordingly. Ali Dibaei, of Elite Builders, applicant, 19626 Ventura Blvd., #21, Tarzana 91356 addressed the Commission. He noted that the dentist, Dr. Rodriguez, has been practicing in Downey for many years, but recently lost his lease. He noted that the dentist’s office hours are mainly on Saturdays. That although the office will be open during the week, the dentist will only be there on Saturday. In addition, he noted the number of employees to include one secretary, and one dental assistant; there are three dental chairs. Mr. Dibaei stated that he did not believe there would be a problem for employees to park over at the church. In addition, he noted that there is one business on the second floor, and this newer location is smaller than where the dentist currently practices. Chairman Kiefer asked for correspondence on this item. City Planner Davis responded that no correspondence had been received. Chairman Kiefer invited persons of the audience to address the Commission on this matter. No one came forward at this time. There being no further comments the public hearing was closed. Commission discussion: Commissioner Murray restated his suggestion that the employees be required to park at the church parking facility. Commissioner Lujan agreed, noting that if he were a patient of Dr. Rodriguez, he personally would not want to park across the street. He supported the modification requiring the employees to park off-site. It was moved by Commissioner Murray, seconded by Commissioner Morales and passed by a 4-0-1 vote, with Commissioner Garcia absent, to adopt Resolution No. 2726, adding a condition requiring the employees to use the off-site parking location at 8441 Florence Avenue. 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 7, 2011 – PAGE 2 Page 3 2. PLN-11-00131 REVISION ‘A’ OF PLN-10-08048 (CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT) Location: 10441 Lakewood Boulevard Owner: C & S Realty Applicant: James and Suzette Phillipy Staff: Jessica Flores 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 Land Use Alternations). Request: A Conditional Use Permit request to allow the expansion of a K-5 elementary school/daycare by converting existing office space into three (3) additional classrooms (3,950 sq. ft.) without increasing enrollment, and allowing for the temporary closure of seven parking sta lls from 9:30 am to 2:30 pm, Monday- Friday for use as an outdoor playground on property zoned C-1 (Neighborhood Commercial). Chairman Kiefer opened the public hearing for PLN-11-00131, Revision ‘A’ of PLN-10-08048 (Conditional Use Permit). Ms. Donahue affirmed proof of publication. William Davis, City Planner, presented staff’s report and accompanying PowerPoint. He explained the applicant’s request to expand classroom area by 3,950 square feet, by converting office space into three individual classrooms to be used for Library/reading, art/science and computer labs, while maintaining the maximum enrollment of 180 children. In addition, the applicant has requested the ability to temporarily close seven (7) parking spaces to the public each day from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., in order to provide an outdoor play area. Mr. Davi s stated that staff can support these requests, since the number of children at the site would not be increased. Plus the required (43) minimum parking spaces will not be affected. He noted that the spaces that will be fenced each day are overflow, from the office uses which have been reduced at the site. Further, Mr. Davis pointed out that the play area will not be in use before 9:30, nor after 2:30 in order to facilitate the circulation for drop-offs and pick- ups. Mr. Davis stated that the Engineering Division had reviewed this proposal and had indicated no concerns. Mr. Davis added, 3,900 square feet of the building will still be eligible for office related uses. Suzette Phillipy, applicant, 10065 Pangborn Avenue, along with her son, Stephen addressed the Commission. Mrs. Phillipy assured the Commission that their first concern is always the safety of the children, and stated that the children are never exposed to public parking areas. She noted that they have staff on-site and in the lots during the drop-off/pick-up times. In addition, she explained that no more than 15-20 children will be in the outside play area at any one time, because they will stagger the groups. Stephen Phillipy complimented the Commission on their overall good health. Commissioner Murray complimented the Phillipys on the appearance of the newly remodeled building. Commissioner Morales inquired if the Phillpys anticipated any further modifications? Mrs. Phillipy responded, they did not expect to come before the Commission again, and that this request was initially due to State requirements; plus their desire to enhance the curriculum. Commissioner Murray asked if the applicants had reviewed and agreed to the recommended conditions of approval. Mrs. Phillipy stated their agreement to the conditions of approval. Chairman Kiefer asked for any correspondence that may have been received. PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES, SEPTEMBER 7, 2011 – PAGE 3 Page 4 Mr. Davis noted that no correspondence had been received in regards to this item. Chairman Kiefer invited members of the audience to address the Commission on this item. No one from the audience came forward at this time. There being no further comments, the public hearing was closed. Commission comments: The Commissioners were in agreement that the proposal was not an intensification of the school’s activities and would be a good improvement for the site . They indicated they were satisfied with the conditions that address their concerns in regards to safety of the children. They also noted that the building enhanced the corridor along Lakewood Boulevard. It was moved by Commissioner Murray, seconded by Commissioner Lujan and passed by a vote of 4- 0-1, with Commissioner Garcia absent, to adopt Resolution No. 2727, approving PLN-11-00131, Revision ‘A’ of PLN-10-08048 (Conditional Use Permit). 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-11-00207 (SPECIAL EVENT) Location: 10921-33 Paramount Boulevard Owner/Applicant: Carmen Rivera Authorized Agent: Carmen Rivera Staff: Jessica Flores 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 of Land). Request: A requested Special Event for a wedding ceremony and reception on September 10, 2011 from 3 pm – 12 am, on the front lawn and first floor of the building (Rives Mansion), zoned Downtown Downey Specific Plan. Chairman Kiefer opened the public hearing for PLN-11-209 (Special Event). Ms. Donahue affirmed proof of publication. William Davis, City Planner, presented staff’s report and accompanying PowerPoint exhibits. He noted that the property had been included in the City’s Downtown Plan, within the Paramount Boulevard - Professional District. He noted staff was able to support the event subject to the conditions as provided. Chairman Kiefer noted that there had been a previous approval at the location last year whereby valet parking was utilized. He wondered if any complaints had been generated from that event. Mr. Davis noted that Code Enforcement has indicated concerns regarding activities at this site. He noted that there have been several events held at the mansion in recent months that have generated complaints from neighbors, thus involving the Code Enforcement team. The Commissioners noted the apparent lack of on-site parking for events, discussed the applicant’s proposal to utilize valet parking for up to 30 on-site parking spaces and addressed how additional parking would be found; noting that any additional parking utilized for the event would be found in public parking, east of the subject site (across Paramount Boulevard). Carmen Rivera, applicant, along with her representatives: Eva Davila, Fairytale Weddings and Linda Carvala (sp?), addressed the Commission, and provided the following: there is room for 30 parking spaces on-site, which might be adequate because m any of the guests are staying at the Embassy PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES, SEPTEMBER 7, 2011 – PAGE 4 Page 5 Suites and will be shuttled over; Ms. Rivera has ow ned the property for five-plus years; they have recently filed a separate application to address special events on the property on an on-going basis. She noted that she has had approximately 5-6 events at the location. Sometimes they just have residential-type events and the neighbors have problems bec ause they are not used to activities there. She stated that she continues to get complaints from neighbors regarding parking impacts, even though some of the problem is caused by other residents’ parties. Ms. Rivera noted that no more than 100 people would be attending the wedding event, and shar ed that the site cannot hold more than 150 people. City Attorney Garcia asked to clarify if it is true that the applicant must bring all special events to the Planning Commission on an individual basis for consideration, until such time as the Conditional Use Permit is evaluated and approved? Community Development Director Saeki responded that this is correct. Mrs. Garcia also noted that the review of the recently filed Conditional Use Permit, which will come before the Commission at a later date, would look at the events at the facility and its impacts on the neighborhood on a more permanent basis, but this is not under review tonight. William Davis, City Planner, noted that until such time as a conditional use permit is approved, no more than four (4) events are permitted per year, per Section 9420.20 of the Downey Municipal Code. Carmen Rivera asked if as a commercial property, they are subjected to this restriction. She noted that she needs to build revenue to pay the architect and attorney. Mr. Saeki responded that they would be able to address this under another application, but not for the Special Event under review. The Commissioners inquired under what conditions would alcohol be served or sold? Ms. Eva Davila responded, noting that she is a certified wedding planner and she will be coordinating the event. She noted that basically they will rent the property out to the wedding party, who will provide the alcohol and licensed bartenders and catering company. She stated that this is the first special event being processed this year. Linda Carvala provided the following: she did not think it was appropriate that a Special Event application be required for this event, pointing to Assistance League events that are held all the time with more than 100 people attending, and no permits are required. She noted that the restaurant across the street (Downey Brewing Company) generated a lot of noise and activity. She explained that tax considerations is another factor that may affect the property. She noted that Federally- acknowledged landmarks often times are used for events. She cautioned the City that they are re- assessing the property, that this property should require different criteria. Ms. Carvala stated that she supports the event. Ms. Carvala stated that she has talked to neighbors in the area and they have no problem with the activities at the Rives Mansion. She suggested t he City use CDBG funds to help beautify the property and to include as a cultural resource for the City; recommending a committee be formed to use the property to its greatest and best use. Chairman Kiefer asked staff for any correspondence that had been received. Mr. Davis noted that copies of correspondence was being distributed from Odemaris Valdivia, 7931 Third Street and Eduardo Schonborn, expressing concerns regarding the proposed event. The Commissioners reviewed the correspondence. City Attorney, Yvette Garcia noted, let the record show that copies of the correspondence was provided to the applicant. PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES, SEPTEMBER 7, 2011 – PAGE 5 Page 6 Chairman Kiefer invited members of the audience to address the Commission. The following persons spoke in opposition: 1) Jeff Phillips, 7955 Third Street (directly behind, just west of the subject site) informed the Commission that there have been numerous events at the mansion since May, 2011; that the property has become a “party” hall;. Mr. Phillips stated that allowing this facility as a party hall has negative impacts on the quality of life of the neighborhood. that the properties along Third Street have to put up increased traffic, noise which includes loud talking, laughing and arguing late into the night; amplified sound from p.a. systems, just outside this bedroom window; loitering, littering, and noted that he has found his driveway blocked by v ehicles, as well. He said the parties have live bands, djs, and jumpers; and noted that his bedroom window is adjacent to the side property. Mr. Phillips stated that based on the quality of life issues, he respectfully requests these activities be denied. Responding to some questions, Mr. Phillips stated that the parties have numbered about 20-30, including baby showers, quinceaneras, kids’ parties with constant noise from music, jumpers, and weddings. The hours range from daytime to evening/late hours. He noted that Downey Police Department would have a record on the number of ca lls to address the noise at the property. Mr. Phillips explained the difference of having a family party in the neighborhood, as he has done, as compared to these business ventures for profit that are impacting the neighborhood. He stated that he is disappointed that the owner of the property shows little concern over how the neighborhood is being impacted. Mr. Phillips stated that the parking impacts ½ block to the entire block, on both sides, really squeezing in the cars. There is only chain link fence between the two properties; perhaps block wall would be better to mitigate sounds. 2) Joe Eggert, 10911 Paramount Boulevard, owner of 10939-10913-1/2 Paramount Boulevard, provided more information about the property includi ng: he and his tenants are directly impacted by all the outside activities, citing one that had to be shut down by the police dept at 11 p.m., and another time when people were coming and going at 3 a.m. with the place all lit up. He noted that commercials have been filmed there with fully profe ssional light/camera crews. In addition, there have been fashion shows, quinceaneras. He said that he would be opposed to any events that impact the neighborhood. Commissioner Murray asked Mr. Eggert if he’d be opposed to daytime events occurring at the site. Mr. Eggert stated that, due to past performance, he was doubtful of the applicant’s sincerity in fulfilling any conditions that are placed on said events by the City. Carmen Rivera and Eva Davila and Ms. Carvala came back to the podium to re-dress the Commission. Ms. Davila stated, as a certified event planner/business owner she does not take her position lightly. She noted that she has been on board since May, and disputes what is being said about events at the property; that there have been only two events, a w edding shower and a baby shower. She noted that she had applied for an event which the City denied. She stated that the owner has fulfilled all the requirements of the City. She said there have been four events requested, including this one, two personal. Ms. Rivera stated that she has felt harassed by Mr. Eggert who is a neighbor and doesn’t like the commercial activities, and who was employed by the City. She said she has not had any events shut down by the Police Dept. During the family w edding event the police showed up and asked if the guests had paid money to attend. She noted there is a conflict between those events permitted in residential properties, as compared to the Commercial-type activities. She stated that their guests only use the parking on the street next to their property. And if it is residential, she is allowed to have these type events. PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES, SEPTEMBER 7, 2011 – PAGE 6 Page 7 City Attorney Garcia asked the City Planner to explain how residential properties are allowed to have family events at the property. W illiam Davis affirmed this to be true. Commissioner Murray asked staff for information regarding police calls. Mr. Davis responded that he was aware that Downey Police Dept. and Code Enforcement had been to the property numerous times, including an office conference in City Hall, to address the activities on the site and the City’s direction that the applicant must process a conditional use permit in order to be approved for those activities that they desire. Ms. Carvala wished to comment in regards to how the property was being assessed; claiming that the City is limited on what they can impose in regards to certain assessments and fees. She compared the residents’ need to accept the problems related to this property to those residents that put up with noise and activities near the Palm Restaurant, noting that residents need to understand that revenue is important to the City. She also pointed out the noise and traffic associated with the two businesses operating across Paramount Boulevard. She stated t hat Mr. Eggert’s testimony is tainted because he formerly worked as a Code Enforcement officer. Commissioner Morales clarified that the Commi ssioners do not assess any property; they act on land use issues. Chairman Kiefer closed the public hearing. Planning Commission discussion: Commissioner Morales stated that there wasn’t much time for the applicant to perform the necessary conditions, with the event only three days off. Commissioner Murray agreed that he wished there was more time to work out the problems and determine appropriate conditions to address and verify the neighbors’ complaints/concerns. The Commissioners pointed out that they want to see the property be developed to its greatest potential, while maintaining safeguards to protect the residents. In addition, with limited time, the applicant will be in a situation if not approved. Commissioner Morales noted that he would like to see the property used to its highest potential, but of course this home was not designed for public assembly. City Attorney Yvette Garcia suggested, if it was the desire of the Commission to allow the event, but want to make sure safeguards are in place to preserve the residential character along Third Street, that the Commission recess for a few minutes to allow staff to provide additional language to address those concerns. The Commissioners asked that staff review those areas of sensitivity: parking, noise, hours of activities, hours that alcohol is served, who polices t he applicant’s adherence to the conditions. The Commissioners discussed the following: 1) there is a discrepancy in the number events that the neighbors are complaining about as compared to what the applicant is stating; 2) the noise level that would be permitted at this location as compared to the restaurants across the street, noting that the noise and activity levels are constantly monitored at these locations as well. Community Development Director Saeki noted that the conditions have been designed to limit the impact to the neighboring properties, and added that they could review them; he said he was aware of there being more than four events thus far; that the code enforcement division is our policing mechanism, based on drive-bys and/or complaints from neighbors. He noted that as a property within the Downtown Downey Specific Plan, homes are permitted to have home-like activities, but not for profit. He noted that for these types of activities to occur lawfully, the Conditional Use Permit must be approved. In the meantime, any events w ould be looked at on a case-by-case basis. PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES, SEPTEMBER 7, 2011 – PAGE 7 Page 8 Chairman Kiefer noted that he is not in favor of downtown activities spilling into residential neighborhoods; noting that he felt it the duty of the Planning Commission to preserve those areas for the residents. Mr. Saeki noted that if it is the Commission’s desire to have the event occur, but want to provide stronger direction to the applicant, the Commission can recess and staff can take a few minutes to beef up the conditions; but, if the Commission would prefer restricting further activities on this site until the Conditional Use Permit application is brought before them, he is prepared to provide findings to support a denial. He asked the Commission what direction they would like to proceed. Commissioner Murray responded, he said he had mixed feelings on it; said he was inclined to see if the conditions could be designed to protect the neighbors. Commissioner Morales stated that he wanted to take the time to see if they could enhance the conditions and make them a little more specific with what they have heard tonight and to be sure they are attainable, and this would provide a gauge to see if the applicant is able to adhere to them and thereby giving them some direction on the upcoming request. Commissioner Lujan agreed that the conditions should be examined and enhanced. The Commissioners provided some direction to the staff and the City Attorney prior to them recessing to the back conference room, leaving the Commissioners at the dais. City Attorney, Yvette Abich Garcia, along with Co mmunity Development Director Brian Saeki and City Planner, William Davis recessed to the back of the Chambers at 8:20 p.m. The meeting was called back to order at 8:55 p.m. Ms. Garcia reviewed each condition as revised, as follows: Condition #1 : The event shall end at 10 p.m., rather than 12:00 p.m.; Condition #1b , also revise to 10 p.m.; Conditions 2 & 3 – no changes; Condition #4 would read: “Applicant shall be responsible for the removal of litter, trash, and debris to clean up and remove all trash on the public streets and neighboring properties no later than 11 pm the day of the event. The removal of trash receptacles, portable restrooms and garbage shall be completed between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. on Sunday, September 11, 2011. Condition #5: no change a new Condition #6, to read: “ The applicant shall be responsible for providing parking for all attendees on-site. If this cannot be achieved, the applicant s hall provide to the City Planner an alternative parking plan by no later than September 9, 2011. Such plan shall provide among other things, (1) the number of parking spaces that cannot be accommodated on-site; and (2) the location where additional vehicles will park. If public parking will be utilized, the appropriate permit must be obtained and fees paid through the Downey Public Works Department by no later than September 9, 2011. Condition #7: Combine with the original Condition #6; Conditions 8 – 10 remain as they are; Condition #11: Add, “Bartenders serving alcohol at the event shall be licensed and bonded.” Conditions 12 & 13, remain the same. Insert new Conditions: 14 & 15, as follows: Condition #14. The applicant shall be responsible for notifying attendees that parking on Third Street west of the event site is prohibited. Condition #15 . No noise shall exceed five (5) dba above the ambient noise level, as measured at the property line, per the Downey Municipal Code. Renumber 14 to 16 .; and renumber 15 to 17. Upon further discussion, the Commissioners believed 10 p.m. would be early to end the reception and PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES, SEPTEMBER 7, 2011 – PAGE 8 Page 9 revised Condition #1 and 1b to 11 p.m. It was moved by Commissioner Kiefer, seconded by Commissioner Morales and agreed upon by all Commissioners, to re-open the public hearing. Chairman Kiefer invited the applicant forward to ensure her acceptance of the revised conditions. Wishing to address the Commission, on behalf of the applicant: 1. Linda Carvala, wished to address the language for new Condition #6. Asking for clarification, if she would not be able to parking on Third Street if she was attending this event. Ms. Garcia clarified that the applicant would need to be issued a permit, from the Public Works Department, for the public parking for said event. However, if guests do park along Third Street they would not be ticketed. The idea is for the guests to park either on-site, or utilize public parking and not impact Third Street. Community Development Director Saeki asked Ms. Carvala, as a point of clarification, was the applicant’s plan to utilize Third Street for their event parking. Ms. Carvala warned the City to be cautious, noting that they are not able to limit certain right-of-ways (citing City of Anaheim/Disneyland matter) City Planner, William Davis, added: every use in the City is required to provide on-site parking, from Single Family Residence to a convention center. This condition is designed to address the parking requirements for this event. Mrs. Eva Davila responded, noting that they did not plan on using Third Street, and they had sufficient parking on-site, and with the shuttling of guests from Embassy Suites. Mr. Saeki responded, then that this condition is moot. Chairman Kiefer closed the public hearing. Mr. Saeki stated, for the record, that he believed Ms. Rivera has accepted the conditions of approval. The applicant noted that after 11 p.m., they will have a crew of 4-5 people for clean-up. It was moved by Commissioner Murray, seconded by Commissioner Lujan and passed by a vote of 4- 0-1, with Commissioner Garcia absent, to adopt Resolution No. 11-2728, with the modifications as discussed, and each item was re-reviewed. 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 thanked all the participants for speaking this evening. Commissioner Morales asked staff to get the revised Resolution of approval to the applicant as soon as possible. Community Development Director Saeki noted it would be ready tomorrow. VIII. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS : Commissioner Lujan asked staff to check into a matter he’d been informed of involving a homeless person at the Wilderness Park (Florence Avenue/605 freeway) Chairman Kiefer inquired into a story he’d read that a café/bar in the downtown was to become a hookah lounge. Mr. Saeki responded that staff had informed the operator that the proper permits must be secured, at the very least this would involve m odifying his business license and reviewing the required parking. PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES, SEPTEMBER 7, 2011 – PAGE 9 Page 10 IX. OTHER BUSINESS: Community Development Director Saeki mentioned t hat the windows at the Downey Studio building had been replaced with plywood and painted, and extended hi s appreciation to Tom Messmer. He also announced that the tickets for Downey’s Second Annual Taste of Downey were on sale. A $20 ticket will entitle the ticketholder to 12 tastes from a selection of 30 Downey restaurants. He also noted that there will be an Art Walk section for attendees to enjoy. Commissioner Lujan asked if there opportunities for service groups (ie. AYSO) to volunteer their assistance. Mr. Saeki responded, the City would like all service groups to get the word out. X. ITEMS F OR FUTURE AGENDA: No Future Agenda items were addressed. XI. ADJOURNMENT: There being no further business to come before the Planning Commission, the Commission adjourned at 9:25 p.m., to September 21, 2011 at 6:30 p.m. at Downey City Hall, 11111 Brookshire Avenue, Downey, Ca., in honor of Phil Blis s, member of Downey Sister Cities, former Chamber President and former Marine, who passed away on August 31, 2011. APPROVED AND ADOPTED this 7th day of September, 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 7th day of September, 2011, by the following vote: AYES: COMMISSIONERS: Lujan, Morales, Murray, Kiefer ABSENT: COMMISSIONER: None ABSTAIN: COMMISSIONERS: Garcia NOES: COMMISSIONERS: None Theresa Donahue Theresa Donahue, Secretary CITY PLANNING COMMISSION H:\Community Development\Planning Commiss ion\Minutes\2011\Sept 7, 2011 - Minutes.doc PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES, SEPTEMBER 7, 2011 – PAGE 10