HomeMy WebLinkAboutResolution No. 5470RESOLUTION NO. 5470
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
GRANTING THE APPEAL AND APPROVING
CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT #91 -58
FOR THE PROPERTY LOCATED AT THE NORTHWEST CORNER OF
LAKEWOOD /FIRESTONE BOULEVARD INTERSECTION
IN THE C -3 (CENTRAL BUSINESS DISTRICT) ZONE
THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY DOES HEREBY RESOLVE AS
FOLLOWS:
SECTION 1. The City Council of the City of Downey does hereby find,
determine, and declare that:
A. An application was duly filed by Moses Lerner (hereinafter "Applicant ")
for a Conditional Use Permit as provided for under Section 9166 of the
Downey Municipal Code and Section 4 of Ordinance 927 (Lakewood/
Firestone Moratorium) to permit construction of a 10,900 ± square foot,
multiple tenant commercial center at the northwest corner of Lakewood
Boulevard and Firestone Boulevard (hereinafter "Subject Property ");
B. The City Council held a duly- noticed public hearing on July 23, 1991
and, after fully considering all oral and written testimony and facts and
opinions offered at the aforesaid public hearing, adopted Resolution No.
5470 approving Conditional Use Permit 91 -58.
SECTION 2. The City Council further finds and determines that facts exist as
required by Section 9166.12 of the Downey Municipal Code and Section 4 of
Ordinance No. 927 to justify granting of a conditional use permit and finds that:
A. The requested conditional use permit will not adversely affect the
purpose and intent of the zoning ordinance or the City's General Plan or
the public convenience or general welfare of persons residing or working
in the neighborhood.
The City's General Plan designates the subject property as General
Commercial, and the land is zoned for C -3 (Central Business District).
Commercial uses previously occupied this site, and this area is known for
its commercial nature.
B. The requested use will not adversely affect the adjoining land uses and
the growth and development of the area in which it is proposed to be
located.
RESOLUTION NO. 5470
CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT #91 -58
PAGE 2
Adjoining land uses are also commercial in nature, except for properties
along the northerly 100' of the westerly property line, which are
residential. Previous development of this site, however, produced more
traffic and noise than the proposed uses, which will impact the
residences to a lesser extent. The proposed structure will partially shield
the residences from Lakewood Boulevard traffic noise.
C. The size and shape of the site proposed for the use is adequate to allow
full development of the proposed use in a manner not detrimental to the
particular area.
This parcel is more than seven times the minimum parcel size for
development in the C -3 zone, and the structure will cover approximately
25% of the lot —less than the 50% coverage permitted. The proposal
includes the required number of parking spaces and appropriate drive
aisle widths for a development of this size.
D. The traffic generated by the proposed use will not impose an undue
burden upon the streets and highways in the area.
The proposed development will generate approximately 436 vehicle trips
per day —a small increase compared to the 30,000 vehicle trips each day
on this segment of Lakewood Boulevard, and the 45,000 daily trips on
this part of Firestone. Existing development has resulted in congestion
at this intersection, to which this project will contribute. The City has
identified future right -of -way widenings impacting property at all corners
of this intersection to improve traffic flow. Six feet of dedication along
part of the subject property's Lakewood frontage and one foot along
Firestone will be required as this property's share of those
improvements.
E. Enforcement of Ordinance 927 would create practical and unnecessary
hardships on the applicant.
The current moratorium was enacted at a time when the subject
property had recently been cleared — leaving the applicant with no
revenue - producing structure or use on prime commercial property. The
applicant had cleared the land in anticipation of building a center such as
the one proposed, but plans had not yet been finalized by the time the
moratorium was enacted. Section 2A of Ordinance 927 permits a
property owner in the moratorium area to lease existing structures to
RESOLUTION NO. 5470
CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT #91 -58
PAGE 3
uses identified in the ordinance. Because the subject property is vacant,
the applicant may not exercise this option that other property owners in
the moratorium enjoy. The applicant intends to construct facilities for
retail uses similar in character to those described in Section 2A of
Ordinance 927 and to those in the immediate area.
F. The proposed project would be consistent and compatible with
commercial - retail uses in the area, both in terms of the nature of the
proposed use and its location.
The proposed commercial center would include uses substantially similar
in both size and character to those at Stonewood Center across
Lakewood Boulevard, and to other commercial development in this part
of Downey.
G. When considering the whole record of this application, including the
initial study of environmental impact, there is no evidence that this
project will have an adverse effect on wildlife resources or the habitat on
which the wildlife depends. The City Planner shall file a California
Department of Fish and Game Certificate of Fee Exemption, with the
appropriate fee provided by the applicant.
SECTION 3. The City Council hereby certifies and approves the mitigated
Negative Declaration of Environmental Impact, including the mitigation monitoring
program, attached to this Resolution as Attachments A and B and by this reference
incorporated herein.
SECTION 4. Based upon the findings set forth in Sections 1 through 2 and the
conditions of approval, attached hereto as Exhibit "A ", the City Council hereby grants
a conditional use permit for said property.
ACTION 5. Pursuant to Government Code Section 65907 and Code of Civil
Procedure Section 1094.6, any action or proceeding to attach, review, set aside, void
or annul this decision, or concerning any of the proceedings, acts, or determinations
taken, done or made prior to such decision, or to determine the reasonableness,
legality or validity of any condition attached to this decision shall not be maintained
by any person unless the action or proceeding is commenced within ninety (90) days
of the date of this Resolution and the City Council is served within one hundred
twenty (120) days of the date of this Resolution. The City Clerk shall send a certified
copy of this Resolution to the Appellant at the address of said person set forth in the
record of the proceedings and such mailing shall constitute the notice required by
Code of Civil Procedure 1094.6
RESOLUTION NO. 5470
CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT NO. 91 -58
PAGE 4
PASSED, APPROVED, AND ADOPTED THIS 23RD DAY OF JULY, 19,91.
ATTEST:
} ;r
;. ,. -k Q A /.i:
4udith E. McDoh eT1
,'City Clerk
SECTION 6. The City Clerk shall certify the adoption of this Resolution.
Barbara J. Hayden; s ayor
I HEREBY CERTIFY that the foregoing Resolution was duly and regularly passed and
adopted by the City Council of the City of Downey at a regular meeting thereof held
on the 23rd day of July, 1991 by the following vote:
AYES: 5 Councilmembers: Cormack, Boggs, Paul, Brazelton, Hayden
NOES: 0 Councilmembers: None
ABSENT: 0 Councilmembers: None
ABSTAINED: 0 Councilmembers: None
10:cup9158.res
City Clerk
1. This approval is to allow construction of one single- story, multi- tenant
commercial center of approximately 10,900 square feet on a parcel at the
northwest corner of Lakewood Boulevard and Firestone Boulevard as shown
in the approved revised plot plan dated June 27, 1991 and elevations dated
May 3, 1991. The freestanding sign tower as shown on the plot plan and
elevations does not meet Downey Municipal Code requirements and is not
part of this approval. Additional deviations or exceptions from said plot plan
and elevation shall not be permitted without the approval of the City Planning
Commission.
RESOLUTION NO. 5470
CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT NO. 91 -58
PAGE 5
PLANNING
EXHIBIT "A"
2. Separate zone variance approval must be obtained for construction of this
project with the reduced side yard (40') setback and reduced landscaping
buffer as shown in the approved site plan, before drawings may be submitted
to the Division of Building and Safety.
3. Separate Tentative Parcel Map approval must be obtained to consolidate
existing lots of Tract 8326 and adjacent portions of vacated alleys as well as
to reflect required right of way dedications and offers of dedication required
by the engineering conditions of approval of this application.
4. Design Review Board approval shall be required for project architecture, color
and materials, and landscaping and irrigation. In addition, a sign program as
prescribed by section 9148.14 of the Downey Municipal Code shall be
required to establish signing criteria for all tenants of the center.
5. The applicant shall provide a landscaped planter at least 5' wide, west of the
future right -of -way line fronting Lakewood Boulevard and a landscaped planter
at least 8' wide north of the future right -of -way line along Firestone
Boulevard. These planting areas shall be bermed and planted with turf and
trees. Trees shall be specimen type, to be approved by the Design Review
Board.
6. The commercial center shall be limited to a maximum of three tenant bays, to
encourage uses with a community -wide draw, which complement and are
compatible with the retail tenant mix at Stonewood Center.
7. Future tenants engaged in food sales shall be limited to take -out operations
only. No seating shall be permitted.
RESOLUTION NO. 5470
CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT NO. 91 -58
PAGE 6
8. The Planning Commission shall retain jurisdiction to amend or add conditions
with further public notice or hearing to assure compatibility with the purpose
and intent of the Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance and to protect the public
health, safety, and general welfare.
9. All conditions of Conditional Use Permit 91 -58 shall be complied with before
this Conditional Use Permit becomes valid.
10. Within two days of approval of this Resolution, the applicant shall provide to
the Planning Division a check for 525 made out to the Los Angeles County
Clerk, to cover filing of the California Department of Fish and Game Certificate
of Fee Exemption as required by Assembly Bill 3158. This condition is
designed to address the statutory requirements to reduce challenge period
under CEQA. Failure to satisfy this condition in the prescribed time shall not
be construed as non - compliance with the other conditions of this approval.
ENGINEERING
11. Ten feet (10') shall be dedicated for right -of -way purposes along the alley
north of Lot 9, Tract 8326, and said dedication shall be reconstructed to the
standards of the City Engineering Division.
12. A corner cutoff with a seventeen foot (17') property line radius shall be
dedicated at the Firestone /Lakewood intersection to provide minimum eight
foot (8') wide parkway sidewalk. Sidewalk return minimum eight feet (8')
wide shall be constructed at Lakewood /Firestone to the standards of the
Department of Public Works and the City Engineering Division. This
construction shall be completed concurrently with project development.
13. Parcel Map must show an irrevocable Offer of Dedication (future street) six
feet along Lakewood Boulevard (Lot 20 only, Tract 8326) and one foot along
Firestone Boulevard with a twenty -seven foot (27') property line radius at the
corner intersection to connect the six foot and one foot offers. The property
owner must maintain this area with landscaping, although such plantings may
not count toward the project's total landscaping requirement.
14. Cement concrete driveway approaches shall be constructed per Caltrans
standards and specifications.
15. The existing curb depression shall be replaced with curb and gutter to the
standards of the City Engineering Division.
RESOLUTION NO. 5470
CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT NO. 91 -58
PAGE 7
16. Damaged concrete improvements shall be removed and replaced and
handicapped ramp shall be installed along Lakewood and Firestone Boulevards.
Said improvements shall be permanently maintained to the standards of the
Department of Public Works and the City Engineering Division.
17. The Subject Property is shown in the most recent Flood Insurance Study Work
Map (May 1991) issued by the Federal Emergency Management Agency
(FEMA) to be subject to effects of 100 -year floodwaters. New construction
shall comply with FEMA regulations for floodproofing.
18. An engineered grading plan and drainage plan for the site shall be submitted
by the developers for approval by the Engineering Division and Building and
Safety Division, and the lot shall drain to storm drain catch basins in
Lakewood and Firestone Boulevards and have not less than a 1% grade, and
whenever the grade differential exceeds one foot, a retaining wall shall be
required.
19. The standards of improvement, construction materials, and methods of
construction shall be accomplished in conformance with the standard plans
and specifications as outlined by the City of Downey.
20. All necessary drainage structures shall be approved by the Engineering
Division.
FIRE
21. Two (2) fire hydrants shall be installed at locations specified by, and to the
standards of the City Engineering Division, Fire Department, and Water
Division.
22. Provide hydrants of the single 2 inch and single 4 inch separately gated
outlet type at locations specified by the Engineering Division and Departments
of Water and Fire.
23. Water mains shall be designed to the standards of the Engineering Division
and Departments of Water and Fire.
24. Automatic Fire Sprinklers required throughout to comply with NFPA 13 and
Downey Fire Department specifications. Plans must be submitted and
approved prior to issuance of building permits.
25. Drive aisle along Lakewood frontage is a designated fire lane, and no curb
parking will be permitted in this area. The area adjacent to the drive aisle curb
in front of the northernmost tenant bay must be striped as a fire lane. Parking
restriction must be posted at all curb areas adjacent to drive aisle.
RESOLUTION NO. 5470
CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT NO. 91 -58
PAGE 8
26. Fire alarm system to include: water flow, valve tamper, trouble detection,
smoke detectors (local annunciation only). Plans must be submitted and
approved prior to issuance of building permits.
27. Fire extinguishers shall be installed to meet the size and locations required by
the Downey Municipal Code.
28. Provide Knox Box access for all units.
29. Building numbers must be ten inches (10 ") high minimum.
BUILDING
30. Separate sewer shall be constructed to the building to the standards of the
City Engineering and Building and Safety Divisions.
31. All electrical and telephone utilities shall be installed underground to the
standards of the Engineering Division and Building and Safety Division.
32. Obtain all necessary plan approvals and permits.
Project Number:
Location:
Project Title /Description:
® NEGATIVE DECLARATION
ATTACHMENT A
CITY OF DOWNEY
PLANNING DIVISION
11111 Brookshire Ave.
Downey, CA 90241
Conditional Use Permit 91 -58
N/W Corner Lakewood Blvd /Firestone Blvd
A conditional use permit to exempt a property from
provisions of ordinance 927 (Lakewood /Firestone
Moratorium) to construct a 10,900 square foot, three -
tenant commercial center in the C -3 zone.
The City of Downey has conducted an Initial Study of Environmental Impacts for the above -
referenced project in accordance with guidelines for the implementation of the California
environmental Quality Act. Based on this Initial Study, Negative Declaration status is
granted for this project because it is found that
❑ there is no substantial evidence that the project may have a significant effect
on the environment.
® revisions have been incorporated into the project to avoid significant effects
on the environment which could otherwise occur. These are specified as
mitigation measures in the Initial Study.
I. BACKGROUND
1. Name of Proponent Moses Lerner
2. Address and Phone Number of Proponent 9879 Santa Monica Blvd
213/553 -0316 Beverly Hills, CA 90212
3. Date Checklist was Submitted June 6. 1991
4. Name of Proposal, if applicable
CITY OF DOWNEY
INITIAL STUDY OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS
5. Application Number(s) CUP 91 -58: TPM 23003
6. Description A reauest to develop a 3- tenant, 10,900V commercial center: and a
reauest to consolidate 8 lots into a sinale parcel of approximately one acre.
7. Location NW corner Lakewood /Firestone
II. ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS
b. Disruptions, displacements, compaction or overcovering of the soil? X
1 Yom£ Maybe No
1. Earth. Will the proposal result in:
a. Unstable earth conditions or in changes in geologic substructures? _ X
c. Change in topography or ground surface relief features? X
d. The destruction, covering or modification of any unique geologic or physi-
cal feature? X
e. Any increase in wind or water erosion of soils, either on or off the site? X
f. Changes in deposition or erosion of beach sands, or changes in siltation,
deposition or erosion which may modify the channel of a river, stream, or
bed of the ocean or any bay, inlet or lake?
g. Exposure of people or property to geologic hazards such as earthquakes,
landslides, mudslides, ground failure, or similar hazards? _ X
2. Air. Will the proposal result in:
a. Substantial air emissions or deterioration of ambient air quality? X
b. The creation of objectionable odors? _ X
c. Alteration of air movement, moisture, or temperature, or any change in
climate, either locally or regionally? X
Environmental Checklist - 1
3. Water. Will the proposal result in:
a. Changes in currents, or the course of direction of water movements, in
either marine or fresh waters?
b. Changes in absorption rates, drainage patterns, or the rate and amount of
surface runoff? X
c. Alterations to the course or flow of flood waters? _ — X
d. Change in the amount of surface water in any water body?
e. Discharge into surface waters, or in any alteration of surface water quality,
including but not limited to temperature, dissolved oxygen or turbidity? X
f. Alterations of the direction or rate of flow of ground waters? X
g.
Change in the quantity of ground waters, either through direct additions or
withdrawals, or through interception of aquifer by cuts or excavations? X
h. Substantial reduction in the amount of water otherwise available for public
water supplies? _ X
i. Exposure of people or property to water- related hazards such as flooding or
tidal waves? X
4. Plant Life. Will the proposal result in:
a. Change in the diversity of species, or number of any species of plants (in-
cluding trees, shrubs, grass, crops, and aquatic plants)?
b. Reduction in the numbers of any unique, rare or endangered species of
plants? X
c. Introduction of new species of plants into an area, or in a barrier to the nor-
mal replenishment of existing species?
d. Reduction in acreage of any agricultural crop?
* Will the loss of existing vegetation be adequately compensated for by
conventional project landscaping? Yes
5. Animal Life. Will the proposal.result in:
a. Change in the diversity of species, or numbers of any species of animals
(birds, land animals including reptiles, fish and shellfish, benthic organisms
or insects)?
Environmental Checklist - 2
Maybe No
X*
X
X
X
b. Reduction of the numbers of any unique, rare or endangered species of ani-
mals? X
1 Yes Maybe No
c. Introduction of new species of animals into an area or result in a barrier to
the migration or movement of animals? _ X
d. Deterioration to existing fish or wildlife habitats? X
6. Noise. Will the proposal result in:
a. Increase in existing noise levels? X
b. Exposure of people to severe noise levels?
7. Light and Glare. Will the proposal produce new light or glare?
8. Land Use. Will the proposal result in:
a. Substantial alteration of the present or planned land use of an area?
b. Will the project have a substantial impact on surrounding land uses?
* Is the project consistent with the General Plan Land Use designation and
zoning requirements? Yes
9. Natural Resources. Will the proposal result in increase in the rate of use of
any natural resources?
10. Risk of Upset. Will the proposal involve:
a. A risk of an explosion or the release of hazardous substances (including, but
not limited to oil, pesticides, chemicals or radiation) in the event of an acci-
dent or upset conditions?
b. Possible interference with an emergency response plan or an emergency
evacuation plan?
11. Population. Will the proposal alter the location, distribution, density, or
growth rate of the human population of an area?
* Estimated population displaced: 0
* Population Anticipated: 0
12. Housing. Will the proposal affect existing housing, or create a demand for
additional housing?
* Housing units lost: .0
* Housing units proposed: 0
b. Effects on existing parking facilities, or demand for new parking?
c. Substantial impact upon existing transportation systems?
Environmental Checklist - 3
X
X
* *
*
13. Transportation /Circulation. Will the proposal result in:
a. Generation of substantial additional vehicular movement? * X*
X
X
X
*
d. Alterations to present patterns of circulation or movement of people and /or
goods? _ _ X
e. Alterations to waterborne, rail, or air traffic? _ — X
f. Increase in traffic hazards to motor vehicles, bicyclists, or pedestrians? _ X
* Anticipated traffic generation: 436 vehicle trip ends daily.
14. Public Services. Will the proposal have an effect upon, or result in a need for
new or altered governmental services in any of the following areas:
a. Fire Protection?
b. Police Protection? — X
c. Schools? X
d. Parks or other recreational facilities? X
e. Maintenance of public facilities, including roads? _ X
f. Other governmental services? _ X
15. Energy. Will the proposal result in a substantial increase in the use of an
energy source or require the development of new sources of energy? _ X
16. Utilities. Will the proposal result in a need for new systems, or substantial
alterations to existing utilities? X
17. Human Health. Will the proposal result in:
a. Creation of any health hazard or potential health hazard (excluding mental
health)?
20. Cultural Resources.
a. Will the proposal result in the alteration of or the destruction of a prehistor-
ic or historic archaeological site?
Environmental Checklist - 4
I Yes Maybe No
X
19. Recreation. Will the proposal result in an impact upon the quantity of existing
recreational opportunities? _ _ X
b. Will the proposal result in adverse physical or aesthetic effects to a prehis-
toric or historic building, structure, or object? X
X --
b. Exposure of people to potential health hazards? _ X
18. Aesthetics. Will the proposal result in the obstruction of any scenic vista or
view open to the public, or will the proposal result in the creation of an aes-
thetically offensive site open to public view? _ X
X
c. Does the proposal have the potential to cause a physical change which
would affect unique ethnic cultural values? _ X
1. Does the project have the potential to degrade the quality of the environment,
substantially reduce the habitat of a fish or wildlife species, cause a fish or
wildlife population to drop below self - sustaining levels, threaten to eliminate a
plant or animal community, reduce the number or restrict the range of a rare
or endangered plant or animal or eliminate important examples of the major
periods of California history or prehistory?
d. Will the proposal restrict existing religious or sacred uses within the poten-
tial impact area? _ X
III. MANDATORY FINDINGS OF SIGNIFICANCE
2. Does the project have the potential to achieve short-term, to the disadvantage
of long -term, environmental goals? (A short-term impact on the environment
is one which occurs in a relatively brief, definitive period of time while long-
term impacts will endure into the future.)
3. Does the project have impacts which are individually limited, but cumulatively
considerable? (A project may impact two or more separate resources where
the impact on each resource is relatively small, but where the effect of the total
of those impacts on the environment is significant.)
4. Does the project have environmental effect which will cause substantial adverse
effects on human beings, either directly or indirectly? _ X
IV. DISCUSSION OF ENVIRONMENTAL EVALUATION See attached sheets.
Environmental Checklist - 5
1 Yes Maybe No
X
X
V. DETERMINATION
On the basis of this Initial Study:
I find that the proposed project COULD NOT have a significant effect on the environment, and a
NEGATIVE DECLARATION will be prepared.
X I find that although the proposed project could have a significant effect on the environment, there will
not be a significant effect in this case because the mitigation measures described on an attached sheet
have been added to the project. A NEGATIVE DECLARATION WILL BE PREPARED.
I find the proposed project MAY have a significant effect on the environment and an ENVIRONMEN -.._.
TAL IMPACT REPORT IS REQUIRED.
J .,Ut A. , tgg
Date Signature
VI. OTHER AGENCIES AND /OR PERSONS CONSULTED:
Weston Pringle & Associates Traffic Study, Dated June 3, 1991
Richard Redmayne, City Engineer
Robert Brace, Civil Engineer
Joanne Itagaki, Acting Traffic Engineer
Environmental Checklist - 6
IV. DISCUSSION OF ENVIRONMENTAL EVALUATION
The following sections discuss the yes, maybe, and no responses given in the Initial Study Checklist for
Conditional Use Permit 91 -58 and Tentative Parcel Map 23003. The responses were prepared assuming
consolidation of eight lots into a single parcel of approximately 1 acre and development of the property with
a 10,900 square foot multiple- tenant commercial center in the C -3 (Central Business District) zone.
1. Earth
a. The proposed center would not create unstable geologic conditions or impact any geologic substruc-
tures. The land was previously graded to ready it for the structures that most recently stood there.
b. Soils may be disrupted or displaced only during new construction on the property. Some minor
grading and recompaction of soil may be necessary to accommodate new development. Because such
disruption would occur only for a limited period of time, impacts would not be significant.
c. Because the site is flat, development would not result in changes to the property's physical features.
d. The property has no unique geologic or physical features.
e. The property is currently undeveloped, and the entire parcel is open to wind and water erosion.
Developing the parcel as proposed would cover much of the land with impervious surfaces, which
would reduce such erosion. Future erosion would be minimal, as any portions of the site not covered
with structures or impervious surfaces would be required to be landscaped.
f. The property is within a developed community a significant distance from the ocean and has been
previously improved. Further development would not be capable of eroding or silting natural water
courses.
g. Commercial development may cause more people to visit these parcels, exposing them to any geologic
hazards of the properties. No unusual hazards are known, however. Also, new construction would
be built to current earthquake safety standards. No additional geologic hazards would occur as a
result of this development.
2. Air
a. The new commercial development is not expected to produce significant additional air pollutants. The
total number of vehicle trips generated at this center is 436 trips daily. Because the parcel is only one
-- acre, impacts to air quality are not expected to be significant. Traffic and resulting pollutants are not
expected to be significant.
b. /c. Development allowed under C -3 zoning typically does not include activities or materials that produce
objectionable odors. Nor would it be of the scope or magnitude to affect the climate or regional or
local air temperatures.
3. Water
a. No marine or fresh waters are located on this property or on neighboring sites.
b. This development would increase coverage of this land by impervious surfaces, decreasing absorption
rates and increasing surface runoff. The properties have previously been developed with commercial
uses, however, and absorption, drainage and runoff under the proposed development would not
change significantly from that figure. On -site drainage would be developed to the standards of the
Engineering and Building and Safety Divisions to avoid adverse impact on surrounding properties.
Irrigation systems for landscaped areas would be approved by the Design Review Board.
c. The proposed development would not be of the magnitude to alter the course or flow rate of flood
waters. Further, no bodies of water exist on these or neighboring properties.
Initial Study Discussion - 1
d. /e. Because of the location and small area of this site, and because of the drainage improvements
required by the Engineering Division, runoff will not impact surface water quality, nor will the
proposed consolidation and development cause it to change. Further there will be no be direct dis-
charge into surface waters.
f. The proposed uses do not differ with others in the C -3 zone or with others in the immediate area. The
type and scale of this development would not cause the direction or flow rate of ground waters to
change.
g. /h. Downey's municipal water system supplied the needs of the property's previous development and
would provide the water for future improvements. Commercial development would place greater
demand on existing groundwater supplies and delivery systems than the existing vacant land does.
Because the total area is small, however, these impacts would be less than significant. Given the
small size of the study area, water available for public use would not be greatly reduced. Any new
construction would be built to current Fire Department standards.
i. The site is located away from natural and constructed water bodies and water courses. The most
recent (May 1991) Flood Insurance Study Work Map prepared by the Federal Emergency Management
Agency (FEMA) shows this property to be in Zone AE, and subject to more than 2 feet of flooding in
the event of a 100 -year flood. The project will be required to meet FEMA regulations, as detailed in
the attached mitigation monitoring program, to floodproof the structure and so that employees and
customers are not exposed to flooding. The project will not expose people to tidal wave hazard.
4. Plant Life
a. With an increase in impervious surfaces, the area available for plant life would decrease. However,
no landscaping currently exists on the property. Therefore all landscaping will introduce new plant
species to the site. The Design Review Board reviews the landscaping plans and plant palettes for
new commercial developments for appropriateness.
b. No unique or endangered plant species exist on the site.
c. New plant species may be introduced to the site, but they will not differ from species used in Downey
for conventional landscaping projects.
d. There are no agricultural uses on these or neighboring properties.
5. Animal Life
a. /b. This action would not affect the presence or numbers of any animal species, fish, or game on the
property. Further, no unique or endangered species are known to inhabit it.
c. No new species of animals, including fish and game, would be introduced as a result of this action.
The properties are part of a built, urban environment and are not part of an animal migration route.
d. No fish or wildlife habitats exist on these or neighboring properties.
6. Noise
a. Because development will generate vehicle trips to this now - vacant site, noise levels may increase
slightly. The number of vehicle trips produced, however, would be less than those generated by the
previous service station and car wash use. Because new development would be similar in character
to that which previously existed on this site, noise impacts would be less than significant. This site
is located at the intersection of Firestone and Lakewood Boulevards, which carry significant traffic.
Commercial development of the site would not likely produce more noise than surrounding uses.
b. Commercial development proposed by this application does not typically produce or expose people to
severe noise levels.
Initial Study Discussion - 2
7. Licht and Glare
New structures will produce some light and may have reflective surfaces, but such light would be similar
to that produced by other commercial developments within Downey and would not negatively affect the
commercial uses across Lakewood or Firestone.
S. Land Use
a. Although this proposal will cause currently vacant land to be developed, the project is consistent with
the site's zoning and general plan designation and will not alter the planned land use. Before being
cleared, the property was used as a service station for many years. Further, the property is in an area
extensively developed with retail commercial uses.
b. The project will not substantially impact surrounding uses, which are commercial to the east, south,
and southwest; office to the north; and residential to the northwest; parking area will abut the
residentially zoned properties.
9. Natural Resources
New commercial development will require water and electricity, but the quantities used by the project,
compared with the service station and car wash that existed there previously, should not be significant.
The City has planned for commercial uses to exist on this site for many years.
10. Risk of Upset
a. The development is not expected to foster a risk of upset because, of the generally non - hazardous
nature of the proposed use. Use of hazardous materials that may be employed by commercial
businesses is governed by the Hazardous Materials chapter (1990) of Downey's General Plan and by
Fire Department regulations.
b. The proposed land use would not result in an increase in the need for emergency services. The
proposed retail uses would likely pose Tess of a potential need for emergency services than the service
station that previously occupied this parcel. The nature and scope of the land use would not interfere
with emergency response or evacuation plans.
11. Population
Under the Downey Municipal Code, residential uses are not permitted in commercial zones. Therefore,
this action will not affect the location, distribution, density, or growth rate of Downey's population.
12. Housing
No residential units exist on the site, and residences are not permitted under the existing zoning. This
action will neither increase or reduce the area envisioned for housing development by Downey's general
plan. The development would create jobs that may increase housing demand in the City, but such an
increase would not be significant from a project of this size.
13. Transoortation /Circulation
a. Small commercial centers such as the one proposed generate approximately 40 trips per 1000 square
feet. The proposed project would produce approximately 436 vehicle trips per day. These trips will
be added to an intersection that is already congested (i.e., it is operating above capacity). Trips
generated by this project, existing development in the area, and expected growth in this part of
Downey will combine to make .the congestion at this intersection worse. Both Lakewood Boulevard
and Firestone Boulevard will be included on the regional network of streets and highways included in
the forthcoming Congestion Management Plan authorized by Proposition 111. The City will be
required to maintain monitored levels of service at this intersection and establish measures to off -set
the impacts of development projects affecting it.
The City of Downey has determined and established as a policy the future right -of -way widths
required on each leg of this intersection to improve traffic flow, including curb -to -curb roadway and
8' -wide parkways. This determination was based on data and improvement options detailed in a City -
commissioned traffic analysis, which recommended improvements to properties at all four corners of
Initial Study Discussion - 3
the intersection. This analysis estimated that, with no improvements the peak -hour volume -to-
capacity ratio of this intersection —its ICU (Intersection Capacity Utilization) value —would be 1.34.
This corresponds to Level of Service F. This represents effect of traffic from the proposed project,
existing development, and expected growth in the immediate area. Improvements suggested by this
study and identified as most practicable by the City (Alternative 3) would reduce the ICU value to
.95 —Level of Service E.
It is the City's intent to equalize, to the maximum extent possible, the right -of -way impacts to each
corner. The City's Engineering Division has developed a modified version of Alternative 3 in the traffic
study as the standard for future right -of -way at this intersection. This standard will result in an
ultimate right of way of the following widths, with no median:
Existing Right -of -Way Future Right -of -Way
Lakewood Blvd., North Leg: 102' 114'
Lakewood Blvd., South Leg: 102' 114'
Firestone Blvd., East Leg: 115' 116'
Firestone Blvd. West Leg: 100' 102'
This future right -of -way, distributed among the four corner properties, will require a dedication of six
feet of the subject property along Lakewood Boulevard. Because the parcel's Lakewood frontage
curves, however, the expansion will not occur along the entire frontage but along the southern portion.
In addition, one additional foot will be required along Firestone. The applicant shall execute a Future
and Private Roadway agreement with the City of Downey, to reserve this area for future right -of -way
expansion, and shall landscape and maintain the property until such time as it is improved. This area
may not be used as required parking or landscaping area for the project, nor for permanent structures.
The improvements identified for this intersection will mitigate the impacts of the subject proposal,
existing development, and ambient growth.
b. On -site parking would be provided for new construction in accordance with the Downey Municipal
Code. Therefore, this action would not create demand for new off-site parking, nor would it affect
existing parking facilities.
c. The site is located at the intersection of two state highways served by regional bus service. Existing
transportation systems will not be significantly affected.
d. The location of a commercial development of approximately one acre at the intersection of two major
streets will not impede movement of vehicles, people, or goods along Lakewood, Firestone, or other
nearby streets. Required right -of -way expansion on this and the other three corner properties at this
intersection will improve mobility.
e. No waterborne, rail, or air traffic uses this property.
f. Since this action may slightly increase traffic in the area, it could increase traffic hazards to motor
vehicles, bicycles, or pedestrians. Although the property is served by sidewalks along both Lakewood
and Firestone, sidewalk width is reduced at the intersection to 6' —two feet less than the City's 8'
standard for such arterials. It is likely that commercial development of this parcel will attract shoppers
from Stonewood Center across the street, increasing pedestrian traffic to this site. The constriction
of the sidewalk to a substandard width may pose an additional pedestrian hazard. Pedestrians who
might have to step into the roadway to pass around each other would step into one of the busiest
intersections in Downey. To mitigate this potential hazard, the applicant shall be required to dedicate
land to allow a full -width sidewalk to be constructed around the corner.
14. Public Services
a. /b. The proposed development will require police and fire protection. This service need, however,
should not be significantly greater than that which has existed in the past for this property. In
addition, any new structures would be built to current fire safety standards.
Initial Study Discussion - 4
c. /d. As no new dwelling units will be built on this site, this action will not likely impact existing school
facilities. Similarly, it will not significantly increase the need for parks or other recreational facilities.
e. /f. The proposed development is a commercial center in an area long planned for such use. Therefore,
this action would not significantly impact government services and maintenance of public facilities
such as roads. Required dedications to accommodate increased traffic at this intersection is
discussed in the traffic section of this initial study.
15. Enerlav
New development will use some additional electricity, natural gas, and water. The effect on existing
supplies, given the small size of the site, would not be significant. No new energy sources would be
required.
16. Utilities
Because this proposal is no larger than one acre, this action will not negatively affect existing communica-
tion, water, sewer, storm drain, natural gas, and solid waste disposal systems.
17. Human Health
a. /b. This development will not create unique or unusual health hazards or potential health risks. The
typically non - hazardous nature of commercial land use would not expose people to additional
hazards.
18. Aesthetics
This property is not within a scenic vista or view corridor. Further, architecture and landscaping of new
commercial development would require Design Review Board approval.
19. Recreation
Employees of new development may use park and recreation facilities. Such impact would be small,
however, because the total number of employees would not be large and no more than a few of these
are likely to use any recreational facility at the same time. Further, the property is not in a recreational
area or planned for such an area.
20. Cultural Resources
a /b /c /d. There are no known prehistoric or historic sites on this parcel. This development would not harm
any ethnic groups or cultural values. Further, no religious or sacred uses exist on or adjacent to this
property. Therefore, no impacts are anticipated.
III. MANDATORY FINDINGS OF SIGNIFICANCE
1. The land use proposed does not have the potential to degrade the quality of the environment or impact
wildlife populations or their habitats.
2. No long -term environmental goals would be compromised by the proposed planning action.
3. The proposed land use is not anticipated to produce limited individual impacts which, taken together,
would be considerable.
4. The proposed planning action would not have environmental effects that would cause substantial
adverse effects or pose health hazards to human beings.
Initial Study Discussion - 5
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