HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes-11-3-10
MINUTES
REGULAR MEETING
DOWNEY CITY PLANNING COMMISSION
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 2010
CITY COUNCIL CHAMBER, 11111 BROOKSHIRE AVENUE
DOWNEY, CALIFORNIA
6:30 P.M.
I.A Regular meeting of the Planning Commission was held November 3, 2010. After the Pledge of
Allegiance to the Flag, Chairman Morales called roll at 6:30 p.m.
COMMISSIONERS PRESENT:
II.Terry Lambros, District 4
Robert Kiefer, District 2, Vice Chairman
Louis Morales, District 3, Chairman
COMMISSIONERS ABSENT:
Michael Murray, District 1
Fernando Vasquez, District 5
ALSO PRESENT:
Brian Saeki, Community Development Director
Charles Vose, Interim City Attorney
John Perfitt, Assistant Community Development Director
William Davis, City Planner
Jessica Flores, Associate Planner
Kevin Nguyen, Assistant Planner
TheresaDonahue,Secretary
MINUTES:
III.It was moved by Commissioner Lambros, seconded by Commissioner Kiefer and
passed by a vote of 3-0-2, with Commissioners Lambros, Kiefer, Morales voting “Aye”, no one voting
“No”, and Commissioners Murray and Vasquez absent, to approve the Minutes of October 20, 2010.
AGENDA CHANGES:
IV.CommunityDevelopment Director Saeki stated there were no changes to the
agenda.
REPORT ON CITY COUNCIL ACTION:
V.Mr. Saeki did not provide a report on City Council actions.
CONSENTCALENDARITEMS:
VI.
PLN-10-08058:
1. a request to expand the approved fitness center to include another tenant space
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on property located at 8036 3 Street, zoned Downtown Specific Plan.
It was moved by Chairman Morales, seconded by Commissioner Lambros and passed by a vote of
3-0-2, to adopt a Minute Action approving PLN-10-08058.
PUBLICHEARINGITEMS:
VII.
CONDITIONAL USE PERMITNo. 08-116
1.
Location:7676 Firestone Boulevard
Owner/Applicant:Wonder Bowl Properties. LLC
AuthorizedAgent:Roy Hasson/Re-Planet Recycling
Staff:KevinNguyen
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 Conditional Use Permit request to establish a mobile recycling centerin the
parking lot of Albertson’s supermarket, on property zoned C-2 (General
Commercial.)
PLANNINGCOMMISSIONMINUTES, NOVEMBER 3, 2010 – PAGE 1
Page 2
Chairman Morales opened the public hearing for Conditional Use Permit No. 08-116. Ms. Donahue
affirmed proof of publication.
Kevin, Nguyen, Assistant Planner, presented staff’s report and accompanying PowerPoint. He noted
staff’s recommendation was for approval, as per the attached Resolution No. 10-2680, with one change:
the applicant wishes to operate the facility 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., seven days a week, and that requires a
modification to Condition #1, to operate Monday through Sunday. Responding to a question from
Commissioner Kiefer, Mr. Nguyen stated that a kiosk currently is in operation, by the same company
(Tomra) at a different location (northwest corner of Paramount and Florence Avenue) but without a
conditional use permit, and operated by a different owner.
Brian Jackson, representing Tomra Pacific Inc., addressed the Commission. Mr. Jackson said that he
had reviewed and agreed to the recommended conditions of approval.
Chairman Morales invited members of the audience to address the Commission on this matter. No one
came forward at this time.
Commission discussion:
The Commissioners were in agreement with staff’s recommendation, noting that the request was within
the State’s guidelines; the recycle facility building would be painted to match the existing store’s building;
the location was suitable, and the conditions of approval are appropriate.
It was moved by Commissioner Kiefer, seconded by Commissioner Lambros and passed by a 3-0-2
vote, to approve Conditional Use Permit No. 08-116, modifying Condition No. 1, to read Monday
throughSunday.
Chairman Morales stated the action of the Planning Commission will be final unless the matter is
appealed to the City Council, with the appropriate fee, within the specified time period as set forth in
the City’s Ordinance.
PLN-10-08032 (CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT)
2.
Location: 12302 Bellflower Boulevard
Owner/Applicant: Public Storage Properties VI, Inc.
Authorized Agent: Roger Spencer on behalf of Cortel for Clearwire
Staff: Jessica Flores
CEQA:As required by the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), a Negative
Declaration of Environmental Impact has been prepared for this application
and is available for review.
Request: A Conditional Use Permit request to construct a new 35-foot tall, freestanding
wireless communication facility disguised as a mono-pine consisting of six (6)
panel antennas, six (6) microwave antennas and related ground-mounted
equipment cabinet, on property zoned M-2 (General Manufacturing).
Chairman Morales opened the public hearing for PLN-10-08032. Ms. Donahue affirmed proof of
publication.
Jessica Flores, Associate Planner, presented staff’s report and accompanying PowerPoint. She
responded to a question from Chairman Morales, confirming that the request is for a 35-foot high cellular
site, although the Resolution stated 38-foot. She also noted that staff is requiring that the applicant
provide a block wall enclosure for the ground-mounted equipment and painted to match the existing
building.
Commissioner Kiefer inquired if the antenna would be visible.
Ms. Flores noted that it would be visible from the park.
PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES, NOVEMBER 3, 2010 – PAGE 2
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Roger Spencer, applicant representing Clearwire, stated that the request is actually to allow the
antenna to be 38-feet high, with the pine tree branches an additional five feet higher, to stealth the unit.
Ms. Flores stated that the plans show the antenna at 35-feet, however, the code would permit it to be
approved at 38-feet, with a five-foot branch extension for stealthing, totaling a height of 43-feet.
Chairman Morales clarified that the added height would be permitted by Code.
Chairman Morales then invited members of the audience to address the Commission on this matter.
There were no persons wishing to address the Commission.
Chairman Morales closed the public hearing.
Commission discussion:
The Commissioners indicated there were no apparent problems associated with the request. They
noted that the location works well, near the park, and is well stealthed.
It was moved by Commissioner Lambros, seconded by Commissioner Kiefer and approved by all
Commissioners present, to adopt Resolution No. 10-2681, approving PLN-10-08032, modifying Condition
No. 1, increasing the maximum height from 35-feet to 38-feet for the antenna, with an additional five feet
to the top of the tree, to 43-feet.
Chairman Morales stated the action of the Planning Commission will be final unless the matter is
appealed to the City Council, with the appropriate fee, within the specified time period as set forth in
the City’s Ordinance.
PLN-10-08082 (CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT)
3.
Location: 7300-7306 Firestone Boulevard
Owner/Applicant: Manuel Lopez/TNT Wellness
Authorized Agent: Same
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 Conditional Use Permit request to operate a Zumba Fitness dance studio, on
property zoned C-2 (General Commercial).
Chairman Morales opened the public hearing for PLN-10-08082. Ms. Donahue affirmed proof of
publication.
William Davis, City Planner, presented staff’s report and accompanying PowerPoint. He explained to the
Commission that staff is unable to support the applicant’s requested dance studio because of the required
number of parking spaces that the use would generate; stating that the use is just too intense for the
location. He noted that “assembly-type” use would require approximately 75 parking spaces. He also
informed the Commissioners that there is a church operating on the property without the benefit of a
conditional use permit and staff would not support the church operating here due to the parking, as well.
He added that staff would investigate this business’ approvals (or lack thereof) separately. He also
pointed out that staff had recommended denial for another requested use at this location, that for a
.
banquet hall Mr. Davis explained that staff’s recommendation for denial is not only due to the parking, but
also because of noise concerns. Mr. Davis directed the Commission to the zoning exhibit which showed
residential properties directly south of the subject site.
Responding to Commissioner Kiefer’s inquiry, Mr. Davis stated that the studio currently is operating out of
the Baptist Church adjacent to City Hall.
PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES, NOVEMBER 3, 2010 – PAGE 3
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Manual Lopez, 12307 Horley Avenue, Downey, speaking as representative of TNT Wellness, addressed
the Commission. He had no questions regarding staff’s recommendation.
Chairman Morales asked the applicant if he had any suggestions as to how he might minimize the affect
of the proposed dance studio on the surrounding businesses and residential properties.
Mr. Lopez acquiesced that the noise would be difficult to control since the volume of the music was
intentional and part of the party atmosphere that the studio employs.
There being no other persons wishing to address the Commission, Chairman Morales closed the public
hearing.
Commission discussion:
The Commission noted the following: the type of business Mr. Lopez operates would be welcome in
Downey, if appropriately located; there does not appear to be a means to minimize the impact to the
center, nor to the immediate surrounding residential properties; the parking requirement is a development
standard that clearly would not allow for this activity.
It was moved by Commissioner Lambros, seconded by Commissioner Kiefer and passed by a 3-0-2 vote,
to adopt Resolution No. 10-2682, denying PLN-10-08082(Conditional Use Permit) .
Chairman Morales stated the action of the Planning Commission will be final unless the matter is appealed
to the City Council, with the appropriate fee, within the specified time period as set forth in the City’s
Ordinance.
PLN-10-08102 (CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT)
4.
Location: 9248 Hall Road
Owner/Applicant: Craig Banks Abraham/Banks Electron Beam Welding
Authorized Agent: Same
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 a Conditional Use Permit to permit an electron beam welding
operation within the existing facility, on property zoned M-2 (General
Manufacturing).
Chairman Morales opened the public hearing for PLN-10-08102 (Conditional Use Permit). Ms. Donahue
affirmed proof of publication.
William Davis, City Planner, presented staff’s report and accompanying PowerPoint, which included a
brief description of the welding process. Mr. Davis explained how the applicant’s electron beam welding
occurs entirely within the machines’ vacuum chambers. He stated that staff supported the requested use
at this location.
Craig Abraham, applicant, 12006 Regentview, Unit C, Downey, addressed the Commission, providing a
detailed explanation of the welding operation, to include: 1) his hours of operation can run as late as 2
a.m.; 2) the operation registers about 60 dbl outside the door of his bay; 3) he keeps his door closed to
eliminate dust during the process, ensuring the level of sound to remain at or below 60 dbl, with the
exception of about every 2 hours the compressor turns on; 4) his units are easterly-facing, toward the
industrial businesses. Mr. Abraham stated that he has operated this (or similar) equipment for 24 years.
Mr. Abraham informed the Commission that he had read and agreed to all recommended conditions of
approval. Responding to questions from the Commission, Mr. Abraham added that he has purchased
another machine which is being stored on pallets, since there isn’t enough room to operate both
machines at this location.
PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES, NOVEMBER 3, 2010 – PAGE 4
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Chairman Morales invited members of the audience to address the Commission.
Mark Hereford, Director of Operations for Rexford Industrial, the owners of the facility, wished to bring to
mind the issue of zoning restrictions, due to residential properties adjacent to their westerly property line
(within 200 feet of residential). He explained there is a full-height, 4-hour demising wall down the middle
of the building. He asked for flexibility in order to permit businesses that are less intrusive, such as this
one tonight, to be on either side of the building, without requiring the public hearing and Conditional Use
Permit. He commented that they are subjected to the impacts from the industrial uses from the east. He
also noted that he’d previously addressed this matter with Community Development Director Saeki.
Mr. Saeki suggested the Commission refer this matter to staff; that the issue before them tonight is in
regards to the welding business. He would recommend Mr. Hereford set up a time to meet with staff.
The Commission agreed.
There being no further persons wishing to address the Commission, the public hearing was closed.
Commission discussion:
Commissioner Lambros said the requested welding business is appropriate for the location; and thanked
the applicant for his technical description of the operation. Commissioner Kiefer agreed, noting that the
staff report and Mr. Abraham’s reports were very informative; he said he can support the proposed use
and noted the unit is eastward-facing, not facing residential. Chairman Morales added, the use would
be permitted by right in the M-2 zone; it is only because of the proximity to residential that the conditional
use permit is required. He stated he also was in support.
It was moved by Commissioner Kiefer, seconded by Commissioner Lambros and passed by all
Commissioners present (3-0-2), to adopt Resolution No. 10-2683, approving PLN-10-08102 (Conditional
Use Permit), as submitted.
Chairman Morales stated the action of the Planning Commission will be final unless the matter is appealed
to the City Council, with the appropriate fee, within the specified time period as set forth in the City’s
Ordinance.
PLN-10-08116 (CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT/SITE PLAN REVIEW)
5.
Location: 7255 Firestone Boulevard
Owner/Applicant: Ubaldo Polo/Downey Auto Wholesale, LLC
Authorized Agent: Same
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 Conditional Use Permit to establish a used car dealership, auto repair, auto
body repair; and
ASite Plan Review request for approval of the proposed exterior colors, for
property zoned C-M (Commercial-Manufacturing).
Chairman Morales opened the public hearing for PLN-10-08116. Ms. Donahue affirmed proof of
publication.
William Davis, City Planner, presented staff’s report and accompanying PowerPoint. He indicated staff
supports the applicant’s request to establish a used car dealership, auto repair and auto body repair. Mr.
Davis explained the request to allow used car sales will be in conjunction with Napa Auto Dealership, and
is a change from the last business which operated here, Greenwood Pontiac, in that used cars will be
sold. He stated the Code requires a Conditional Use Permit for used car dealerships. Mr. Davis explained
that the site meets the City’s Code for used car lots. He stated that one concern had arisen when the
PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES, NOVEMBER 3, 2010 – PAGE 5
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applicant installed his sign, “Downey Auto Wholesale” which had raised a red flag to staff. Mr. Davis
stated that wholesale sales is not permitted and would not be supported. He said that he’d expressed this
concern to the applicant, Mr. Polo, who has reassured that this term is understood in the business as a
sales technique, and the only time they actually would be sell “wholesale” would be for those vehicles they
need to move off the lot after 60 or more days. Mr. Davis also noted that Condition #9 has been modified
to address the City’s concern, to clarify that live auction and bidding for the vehicles will not be permitted
on the premises. He read the following revised Condition No. 9: ”The approval of PLN-10-08102
(Conditional Use Permit) does not authorize live auctions or bidding for the sale of goods and
merchandise to commercial, industrial, institutional, other business users, wholesalers, subordinate
services, or to any other than a standard customer of the subject use.”
Chairman Morales asked why a business would use the term “wholesale” in the name, if they are not, in
fact, selling wholesale.
Mr. Davis shared what Mr. Polo had said to him, that using the term wholesale entices the public to come
on the lot expecting discounted prices and that Mr. Polo has stated that their prices will be below typical
retail prices.
Mr. Davis stated that the other portion of the applicant’s request is the Site Plan Review application. He
provided slides that depicted new colors already on the building, along with the signs already in-place. He
stated that the building’s colors will be white and blue in the shades recognizable as NAPA Auto Sales.
and reviewed the colors and materials with the Commission. Mr. Davis noted that the sign plan will not
come back to the Planning Commission but staff will review it per the City’s sign standards. Mr. Davis
directed Ms. Donahue to distribute copies of the Site Plan Review Resolution No. 10-2685 since it had
been excluded from their packets.
Chairman Morales asked if the applicant had seen the Site Plan Review Resolution and its conditions of
approval. Mr. Davis responded that he’d gone over them with the applicant yesterday.
Dan Vitala. 31 Sage, Irvine, partner of Mr. Polo, said he had reviewed the conditions of approval for both
Resolutions, and he accepted the conditions of approval, including the modifications to Condition No. 9.
There being no further persons coming forward to address the Commission, Chairman Morales closed the
public hearing.
Commission discussion:
Commissioner Lambros stated that she was in support of the car dealership at this site and was happy to
see the property in use again. She wished the applicant good luck. Commissioner Kiefer agreed,
although he said he was not a fan of used car dealerships along Firestone Boulevard, and believed the
City’s residents did not want to see them either; however, he viewed this to be a good location.
Commissioner Kiefer cautioned the applicant to keep the signs within what Code permits, and he would be
able to support.
Chairman Morales said his only concern is allowing the term “wholesale” in the sign, when wholesale is
not permitted. Commissioner Kiefer agreed. He thought the sign would be misleading to passers-by.
Chairman Morales also raised the issue of losing tax dollars due to “point of sale” sales and suggested the
word be removed.
Community Development Director Saeki responded, stating the Commission’s concerns are duly noted;
and the Commissioners may re-address when the signs come before them.
It was moved by Commissioner Lambros, seconded by Commissioner Kiefer and passed by all
Commissioners present (3-0-2) to adopt Resolution Nos. 10-2684 (Conditional Use Permit), modifying
Condition #9 as discussed and No. 10-2685 (and Site Plan Review), approving PLN-10-08116.
Chairman Morales stated the action of the Planning Commission will be final unless the matter is appealed
PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES, NOVEMBER 3, 2010 – PAGE 6
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to the City Council, with the appropriate fee, within the specified time period as set forth in the City’s
Ordinance.
PLN-10-08125 (SITE PLAN REVIEW)
6.
Location: 8236-8274 Firestone Boulevard
Owner/Applicant: Amusement Industry, Inc./Westland Industries
Authorized Agent: Geovanny Mendoza
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 15302 (Class 2, Replacement or Reconstruction).
Request: A Site Plan Review request for approval of the architectural design, exterior
building materials, colors, and landscaping for a restaurant/retail development,
on property zoned C-3/DP (Central Business District/Downtown Overlay).
Chairman Morales opened the public hearing for PLN-10-08125, for property located at 8236-8274
Firestone Boulevard (“The Gateway Project”). Ms. Donahue affirmed proof of publication. Chairman
Morales commented that he was happy to see the public notice had been placed in the local newspaper,
“The Downey Patriot”.
William Davis, City Planner, presented staff’s report and accompanying PowerPoint. He explained that
this project is a request by Yanki Greenspan and Geovanny Mendoza (Westland Industries) and has
been in the works for many months and has come to fruition due to the combined efforts of the
architectural design firm, Studio One Eleven, and efforts from staff which has included Economic
Development Department’s John Perfitt and Planning Division’s Mark Sellheim.
Mr. Davis stated that this design was submitted while the property was zoned C-3/DP, and since that
date the zoning has been changed to DDSP (Downtown Downey Specific Plan). Mr. Davis provided a
detailed description of the proposed development to be known as “The Gateway” project”. His
presentation included an overview and specifics of the project involving a parking area adjacent to the
south on Nance Street, making the project possible. He noted those details are included in the
Development Agreement between the City and developer which the Commission approved on April 7,
2010.
Mr. Davis explained the architectural firm’s efforts to develop a warm and inviting patio area by utilizing
warm building colors: orange, brown, off-white and beige, plant materials and contemporary architectural
features throughout have been enthusiastically accepted by staff. He pointed out to the Commission that
the patio’s entrance off Firestone Boulevard lines up with the corridor for the Porto’s Bakery across the
street, providing an enjoyable visual. Mr. Davis reviewed the plant materials schedule on page 9 of
staff’s report. He stated that although the signs have been conceptually addressed, a formal sign
program is yet to be submitted, and noted that a variety of types of signs would be utilized and may
include: hanging signs, protruding signs, wall-mounted signs. He then introduced the applicant, Yanki
Greenspan.
Yanki Greenspan, 6665 Long Beach Boulevard, Long Beach, addressed the Commission, noting that he
has some issues and clarifications: 1) Under Background, (on page 3 staff’s report), he noted that the
square footages may change a little; 2) Condition No. 14, he stated that they hoped to secure these
agreements, but wouldn’t want the project to hinge on it. He said they would give it their best faith effort.
3) Mr. Greenspan also questioned Condition No. 31, (which restricts parking along Firestone Boulevard.)
Community Development Director Saeki responded, noting that the City would be satisfied with the
applicant’s “best faith effort” to meet Conditions No. 14, and provided the revised language. He also
wondered if “La Reina Avenue” needed to be included, or whether it should be removed.
John Perfitt, Assistant Community Development Director agreed that both Conditions No. 14 and 25 are
basically the same request and would accept the applicant’s “best faith effort” to secure the agreements.
PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES, NOVEMBER 3, 2010 – PAGE 7
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Mr. Davis responded to Mr. Saeki’s questioning “La Reina Avenue” within Condition No. 14, and noted that
access to the subject site is available from La Reina Avenue, as well as Nance Street.
Mr. Greenspan clarified that the property owners already share the parking area between Nance and
Firestone, so some type of agreement should already be in-place and re-stated that they would give it their
best faith effort. He stated that these requirements are directed toward driveway access onto the parcel.
Commissioner Lambros asked if the question was in regards to parking sufficiency.
Mr. Perfitt added that the best case scenario is that an R.A. (reciprocal access agreement) be provided.
Responding to Commissioner Lambros, he reminded the Commissioners that their approval
of the Development Agreement was an affirmation that the 100 parking spaces were fully provided, utilizing
Nance Street. He noted that the parking had been calculated based on highest possible use (restaurants).
Discussion followed. Mr. Greenspan stated that Condition No. 25 brings up another set of issues: ADA
compliance. He noted that he cannot guarantee full ADA compliance for the length of the parking area, all
the way to La Reina. Mr. Saeki responded, restating that the City will accept the applicant’s “best faith
effort”.
Addressing Condition No. 31, Mr. Perfitt explained that this Condition should be removed, since it
addresses parking in the public right-of-way. He said this would be a decision of the City’s and not
something the applicant would need to address. He noted that Mr. Davis would explain one important
condition the City would like to add.
Mr. Davis asked that the Commission include a condition of approval, which would read, “The Applicant is
required to provide an opening in the street median on Downey Avenue to allow vehicles to turn left
(west) from Downey Avenue to Nance Avenue.” He noted that the applicant has been informed of this
additional condition of approval.
Referring the Commissioners to the renderings, Mr. Greenspan asked if they preferred, “The Gateway”, or
“Downey Gateway”. The Commissioners indicated they might prefer “The Gateway”, but did not really
favor one over the other.
Mr. Saeki stated they would have another opportunity to look at signs when the Sign Program was brought
before them.
Commissioner Kiefer inquired about the term expressed in Condition #18 “on-street service loading”. Mr.
Saeki explained that this would be a painted curb area where loading/unloading could occur, along Downey
Avenue.
Commissioner Kiefer asked if there will be one or two lanes going each way. Mr. Saeki explained that
there are two lanes each way, but if there is loading/unloading occurring along the curb, the street would be
narrowed to one lane.
Chairman Morales invited members of the audience to address the Commission.
Wishing to address the Commission on this matter:
James Kriss, 16992 Bolero Lane, Huntington Beach, Ca., speaking on behalf of Burt Weinberger, property
owner of Neil’s Stationers, 8152 Firestone Boulevard (west of La Reina Avenue), addressed the
Commission. He stated that the project is beautiful and he is supportive. He wished to address Mr.
Weinberger’s concerns in regards to parking and how this development would affect his property:
1. Would the reciprocal agreement extend as far as the west end of Nance, to Myrtle, noting that those
customers will no doubt spill over unto the westerly properties’ parking spaces? (Staff responded that
it would not.)
2. How many parking spaces currently exist? (Staff responded, 33, and with Nance Street addition, a
PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES, NOVEMBER 3, 2010 – PAGE 8
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total of 133 spaces).
3. Will Mr. Weinberger be able to purchase parking spaces from the public parking lot, if a new tenant
requires additional parking? Chairman Morales explained that the spaces within the Nance Street
parking are considered public parking. Community Development Director Saeki explained that there
are several layers to consider. Each project is looked at individually to meet their parking needs.
The difference here is that there is a Development Agreement in place which involves the parking
from Nance in order for the parking to go forward. He stated that if Mr. Weinberger wished to
develop another project similar to this, the City would certainly look at the portion of Nance behind
his property, in conjunction with a development proposal. Mr. Kriss said he liked the project, and
hoped the City would extend the same consideration to another developer, should they come across
the need.
There were no others wishing to address the Commission.
There being no further comments from the public, Chairman Morales closed the public hearing.
Commission comments:
Commissioner Lambros expressed her enthusiasm for the project. She noted that Mr. Greenspan’s
concerns have been addressed and stated that she is in favor of approving the project. Commissioner
Kiefer stated that he also supports the project; that the design elements fit perfectly for the area and will
be a vast improvement there. He cautioned that the City continues to be cognizant of adequate parking,
but he stated this is a great project. Chairman Morales asked a question to staff in regards to the
adjacent properties and the likelihood that they will get on board to support the easement, and improve
their properties.
Mr. Saeki stated that as this project gets under way, more participation is anticipated, adding that a new
business is just about to open along this strip, a wine bar, next to the Billiards business. And he
expected more positive changes to follow. Mr. Perfitt noted there are two additional property owners
along the eastern portion of this block, one being in a family trust. He provided some background on the
property owners and their positions in regards to the proposed project and parking plans. He also
responded to Mr. Kriss’ earlier question and noted that any business can buy into the parking
assessment.
It was moved by Commissioner Lambros, seconded by Commissioner Kiefer and passed by the three
Commissioners present (Lambros, Kiefer and Morales), to adopt Resolution No. 10-2686, approving
PLN-10-08125, as modified.
Chairman Morales stated the action of the Planning Commission will be final unless the matter is appealed
to the City Council, with the appropriate fee, within the specified time period as set forth in the City’s
Ordinance.
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS
VIII.:
Staff: 1) Community Development Director Saeki noted that the Dine in Downey, “Taste of Downey”
event would take place on November 18, 2010 at 5:30 p.m. in front of City Hall. 2) Mr. Saeki informed the
Commissioners that staff was working on the report that had been requested, detailing the locations of all
existing cell sites.
Commissioners: Commissioner Lambros noted congratulations were in order for Commissioner Vasquez,
as he had won the Council seat for District 4. Each of the Commissioners shared her sentiment.
OTHER BUSINESS:
IX. No other business was addressed.
ITEMS FOR FUTURE AGENDA:
X. No future agenda items were discussed.
ADJOURNMENT:
XI. There being no further business to come before the Planning Commission, the
Commission adjourned at 8:25 p.m., to November 17, 2010 at 6:30 p.m. at Downey City Hall, 11111
Brookshire Avenue, Downey, Ca.,
PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES, NOVEMBER 3, 2010 – PAGE 9
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APPROVED AND ADOPTED this 17th day of November, 2010.
Louis Morales
Louis Morales, Chairman
CITY PLANNING COMMISSION
I HEREBY CERTIFY that the foregoing Minutes were duly approved at a Regular meeting of the
Planning Commission held on the 17th day of November, 2010, by the following vote:
AYES: COMMISSIONERS: Lambros, Kiefer, Morales
ABSENT: COMMISSIONER: None
ABSTAIN: COMMISSIONERS: Murray, Vasquez
Theresa Donahue
Theresa Donahue, Secretary
CITY PLANNING COMMISSION
PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES, NOVEMBER 3, 2010 – PAGE 10