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HomeMy WebLinkAbout4. PLN-15-00165 9606 FirestoneSTAFF REPORT PLANNING DIVISION DATE: OCTOBER 21, 2015 TO: PLANNING COMMISSION SUBMITTED BY: ALDO E. SCHINDLER, DIRECTOR OF COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT REVIEWED BY: WILLIAM E. DAVIS, CITY PLANNER PREPARED BY: KEVIN NGUYEN, ASSISTANT PLANNER SUBJECT: PLN-15-00165 (SITE PLAN REVIEW) - A REQUEST TO CONSTRUCT A GARAGE STRUCTURE AT AN EXISTING EQUIPMENT RENTAL (UNITED RENTALS) BUSINESS LOCATION: 9606 FIRESTONE BOULEVARD ZONING: M-1 (LIGHT MANUFACTURING) REPORT SUMMARY PLN-15-00165 is a request to construct a 1,800 sq. ft. (30’ x 60’) garage structure on the site of an equipment rental business (United Rentals). An existing building, which includes office and equipment storage uses, will remain unchanged. After reviewing the materials and information submitted with the Land Use Permit Application, staff recommends that the Planning Commission adopt the following resolution: A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY APPROVING PLN-15-00165 (SITE PLAN REVIEW): A REQUEST TO CONSTRUCT A 1,800 SQUARE FOOT GARAGE STRUCTURE (30’ x 60’), FOR THE STORAGE AND SERVICE OF PORTABLE DIESEL GENERATORS AT THE EXISTING UNITED RENTALS COMPANY, ON PROPERTY LOCATED AT 9606 FIRESTONE BLVD AND ZONED M-1 (LIGHT MANUFACTURING) BACKGROUND On August 6, 2015, the applicant submitted a Land Use Permit Application to obtain the Planning Commission’s approval of a Site Plan Review to construct a 1,800 square foot garage structure for the storage and service of portable diesel generators at an existing United Rentals Company. The site is improved with an equipment rental and service business. It features a 4,760 square foot one-story structure that contains five (5) storage and service bays, a break room, offices, and restrooms. Other site improvements include two above ground dispensers and eight (8) customer parking spaces along the west side of the building. The 59,152 square foot (1.37 acre) irregular-shaped parcel borders Firestone Boulevard and Stewart & Gray Road. It maintains approximately 349 feet of frontage on Firestone Boulevard Agenda Page 1 PLN-15-00165 – 9606 Firestone Blvd October 21, 2015 - Page 2 and Stewart & Gray Road. The subject property is zoned M-1 (Light Manufacturing) with a General Plan Land Use Designation of Commercial Manufacturing (CM). The surrounding properties include various commercial businesses to the north (across from Firestone Blvd) and to the west (across from Stewart & Gray Road) of the subject site, an automobile body repair shop exists on the east side of property, and various industrial businesses exist to the south side. Staff completed its review of the application on October 2, 2015, and deemed it complete. On October 8, 2015, staff mailed notice of the pending public hearing to all property owners within 500 feet of the subject site and the notice was published in the Downey Patriot. DISCUSSION/ANALYSIS Downey Municipal Code Section 9820 requires the Planning Commission’s approval of a Site Plan Review Application for all new permitted structures and site improvements in all commercial and manufacturing zones, including the M-1 (Light Manufacturing) zone. The Applicant’s plans include a 30’ by 60’ wall structure located along the easterly property line and near the Firestone Boulevard frontage. There will be 35 feet separation from their existing service/office building. The proposed 20’ high garage structure will have the following setbacks: 34 feet behind the northerly property line (Firestone Blvd), zero feet from the easterly (side) property line, 156 feet from the southerly (rear) property line, and approximately 220 feet from the westerly property line (near Stewart & Gray Rd). Access to the site is through a driveway on Firestone Boulevard and a driveway on Regentview Avenue. The applicant proposes to provide six (6) additional parking spaces along the easterly side property line. Additional landscaped area bounded by concrete curb will be provided at the end of each row of parking stalls. Architecture The proposed structure will consist of concrete block with a design and color to match the existing building on site. Some of its design elements include building facades clad in contrasting smooth concrete block and aluminum roll up doors for the garage bays. The building will feature a horizontal roof line with extended parapet wall wraps around the entire building to provide screening for the rooftop mechanical equipment. A list of the project’s building elements along with their proposed finishes and colors is provided below. Element Material Color Main Building Concrete block (concrete masonry units) Dunn Ewards – White (DEW380) Roll-up Door Aluminum Dunn Ewards – White (DEW380) Parapet Concrete block (concrete masonry units) Dunn Ewards – Adirondack (DE6339) Trim /Band Concrete block (concrete masonry units) Dunn Ewards – Blueberry Muffin (DE5851) Agenda Page 2 PLN-15-00165 – 9606 Firestone Blvd October 21, 2015 - Page 3 DEVELOPMENT REVIEW COMMITTEE – AUGUST 12, 2015 On August 12, 2015, the Development Review Committee (DRC) discussed and evaluated the aspects of PLN-15-00165 that pertain to Planning, Police, Fire, Public Works, and Building and Safety matters. The Public Works, Fire, and Building and Safety Departments provided their standard conditions of approval and expressed no concern about the proposed project. ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS Staff has reviewed the proposed use for compliance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). Upon completion of this review, staff determined that this request is categorically exempt from CEQA, pursuant to Guideline Section No. 15303 (Class 3, New Construction or Conversion of Small Structures). Categorical Exemptions are projects, which have been determined not to have a significant effect on the environment and have been exempted from the requirements of the CEQA. Class 3, include projects that involve construction or conversion of small structures of no less than 2,500 square feet in floor area. It is staff’s opinion that the proposed construction of a 1,800 sq. ft. garage structure will not have a significant effect on the environment; thereby qualifying for the Class 3 exemption. FINDINGS Pursuant to the requirements of the Municipal Code Section 9820.08 (Site Plan Review), staff recommends that the Planning Commission make the following findings to approve the request: 1. That the site plan is consistent with the goals and polices embodied in the General Plan and other applicable plans and policies adopted by the Council. These goals and policies of the Downey General Plan (Vision 2025) are addressed as follows: Goal 8.1 of the Design Element is to “Promote quality design for new, expanded and remodeled construction” and Policy 8.1.1 seeks to promote architectural design of the highest quality. The applicant proposes to construct a concrete block building with a modern design that will match the existing industrial theme on site. Goal 9.1 of the General Plan is “Attract and retain businesses” and Program 9.1.1.5 seeks to continue the revitalization of commercial and industrial corridors. The proposed site improvements will provide a new and expanded use at the existing industrial business, which is consistent with Program 9.1.1.5. 2. That the proposed development is in accordance with the purposes and objectives of this article and the zone in which the site is located. The subject site is zoned M-1 (Light Manufacturing), which allows the construction of a new structure, subject to the approval of a Site Plan Review application by the Planning Commission. The proposed project complies with all development standards and is consistent with the purpose of the M-1 zone. The Applicant has adhered to the City’s approval process for site plan review, which resulted in the orderly development of the site while maintaining compatibility with the surrounding land uses. Agenda Page 3 PLN-15-00165 – 9606 Firestone Blvd October 21, 2015 - Page 4 3. That the proposed development’s site plan and its design features, including architecture and landscaping, will integrate harmoniously and enhance the character and design of the site, the immediate neighborhood, and the surrounding areas of the City. Staff has attached conditions of approval to PLN-15-00165 (Site Plan Review), to ensure that the proposed project will integrate harmoniously and enhance the character of the surrounding properties and the subject site by providing a new modern concrete building with design, colors, and materials to match existing building on site. 4. That the site plan and location of the buildings, parking areas, signs, landscaping, luminaries, and other site features indicate that proper consideration has been given to both the functional aspects of the site development, such as automobile and pedestrian circulation, and the visual effects of the development from the view of the public streets. The subject property is developed with building, landscaping and parking facilities in place. The proposed construction of the garage structure will provide additional service and storage space at the same location. Also, additional parking spaces will be provided as a result of the increased square footage for the new garage structure. The existing building, pedestrian walkways, driveways and drive aisles will not be modified. As such, patrons and vehicles will be able to navigate the site efficiently and safely. 5. That the proposed development will improve the community appearance by preventing extremes of dissimilarity or monotony in new construction or in alterations of facilities. The proposed structure illustrates an architectural design that differs from other uses in the vicinity, but incorporates building materials (concrete block and aluminum) found on the existing building on the subject site. Staff has incorporated conditions of approval for PLN-15-00165 (Site Plan Review), to ensure that the proposed garage structure will blend harmoniously with architectural design of the surrounding buildings. 6. That the site plan and design considerations shall tend to upgrade property in the immediate neighborhood and surrounding areas with an accompanying betterment of conditions affecting the public health, safety, comfort, and welfare. The proposed structure’s design and color will integrate harmoniously with neighboring properties to the east since these properties are currently developed with industrial buildings (automobile body repair shop and automobile collision center). The project will improve the business further and increase its revenues significantly. The proposed project is a new structure that complies with the current Building Code and Fire Code regulations for structural integrity and fire safety. 7. That the proposed development’s site plan and its design features will include graffiti-resistant features and materials in accordance with the requirements of Section 4960 of Chapter 10 of Article IV of this Code. A condition of approval (Condition No. 4) stipulates the use of graffiti-resistant materials in accordance to Downey Municipal Code, Article IV, Section 4960, has been added. Agenda Page 4 PLN-15-00165 – 9606 Firestone Blvd October 21, 2015 - Page 5 CORRESPONDENCE As of the date that this report was printed, staff has not received any correspondence regarding this matter. CONCLUSION Based on the information contained in this report, staff supports the proposed project, subject to the conditions of approval associated with this application. Furthermore, staff believes that all findings required to approve a site plan review application for the proposed project can be made in a positive manner. As such, staff recommends that the Planning Commission adopt a resolution approving PLN-15-00165 (Site Plan Review), subject to the conditions of approval, as stated in the Planning Commission Resolution. EXHIBITS A. Vicinity Map & Site Photograph B. Aerial Photograph & Zoning Map C. Site Plan D. Building Elevation E. Draft Resolution Agenda Page 5 PLN-15-00165 – 9606 Firestone Blvd October 21, 2015 - Page 6 Exhibit ‘A’ PROJECT LOCATION SITE PHOTOGRAPH Agenda Page 6 PLN-15-00165 – 9606 Firestone Blvd October 21, 2015 - Page 7 Exhibit ‘B’ AERIAL PHOTOGRAPH ZONING MAP SUBJECT PROPERTY Re g e n t v i e w A v e Agenda Page 7 CITY OF DOWNEY PLANNING DIVISION NORTH EXHIBIT ‘C’ PROJECT No. PROJECT LOCATION SITE PLAN PLN-15-00165 (SITE PLAN REVIEW) 9606 FIRESTONE BLVD Paramount Blvd De P a l m a S t New Parking Proposed 1,800 sq. ft. Garage Structure Agenda Page 8 CITY OF DOWNEY PLANNING DIVISION NORTH EXHIBIT ‘D’ PROJECT No. PROJECT LOCATION BUILDING ELEVATIONS PLN-15-00165 (SITE PLAN REVIEW) 9606 FIRESTONE BLVD North Elevation (facing Firestone Blvd) West Elevation (facing Stewart & Gray Rd) Agenda Page 9 RESOLUTION NO. 15-____ A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY APPROVING PLN-15-00165 (SITE PLAN REVIEW): A REQUEST TO CONSTRUCT A 1,800 SQUARE FOOT GARAGE STRUCTURE (30’ x 60’), FOR THE STORAGE AND SERVICE OF PORTABLE DIESEL GENERATORS AT THE EXISTING UNITED RENTALS COMPANY, ON PROPERTY LOCATED AT 9606 FIRESTONE BLVD AND ZONED M-1 (LIGHT MANUFACTURING) THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY DOES RESOLVE AS FOLLOWS: SECTION 1. The Planning Commission of the City of Downey does hereby find, determine and declare that: A. An application was filed by Brandon Fiege, requesting approval of a Site Plan Review (PLN-15-00165), to construct an 1,800 sq. ft. garage structure, on property at 9606 Firestone Boulevard, Downey, California (hereinafter "Subject Site"), zoned M-1 (Light Manufacturing); A. On October 8, 2015, notice of the pending public hearing was sent to all Downey property owners within 500 feet of the subject site and the notice was published in the Downey Patriot. B. The Planning Commission held a duly noticed public hearing on October 21, 2015 and after fully considering all oral and written testimony, facts, and opinions offered at the aforesaid public hearing, hereby adopted this Resolution No. 15- ____, approving PLN-15-00165 (Site Plan Review), subject to the conditions of approval. SECTION 2. The Planning Commission further finds, determines and declares the environmental impact of the proposed development has been reviewed and has been found to be in compliance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and is categorically exempt from CEQA, pursuant to Guideline Section No. 15303 (Class 3), New Construction or Conversion of Small Structures. SECTION 3. Having considered all of the oral and written evidence presented to it at said public hearings, the Planning Commission further finds, determines and declares that: A. That the site plan is consistent with the goals and polices embodied in the General Plan and other applicable plans and policies adopted by the Council. These goals and policies of the Downey General Plan (Vision 2025) are addressed as follows: Goal 8.1 of the Design Element is to “Promote quality design for new, expanded and remodeled construction” and Policy 8.1.1 seeks to promote architectural design of the highest quality. The applicant proposes to construct a concrete block building with a modern design that will match the existing industrial theme on site. Goal 9.1 of the General Plan is “Attract and retain businesses” and Program 9.1.1.5 seeks to continue the revitalization of commercial and industrial corridors. The proposed site improvements will provide a new and expanded use at the existing industrial business, which is consistent with Program 9.1.1.5. Agenda Page 10 Resolution No. 15-____ Downey Planning Commission PLN-15-00165 – 9606 Firestone Blvd October 21, 2015 - Page 2 B. That the proposed development is in accordance with the purposes and objectives of this article and the zone in which the site is located. The subject site is zoned M-1 (Light Manufacturing), which allows the construction of a new structure, subject to the approval of a Site Plan Review application by the Planning Commission. The proposed project complies with all development standards and is consistent with the purpose of the M-1 zone. The Applicant has adhered to the City’s approval process for site plan review, which resulted in the orderly development of the site while maintaining compatibility with the surrounding land uses. C. That the proposed development’s site plan and its design features, including architecture and landscaping, will integrate harmoniously and enhance the character and design of the site, the immediate neighborhood, and the surrounding areas of the City. Staff has attached conditions of approval to PLN- 15-00165 (Site Plan Review), to ensure that the proposed project will integrate harmoniously and enhance the character of the surrounding properties and the subject site by providing a new modern concrete building with design, colors, and materials to match existing building on site. D. That the site plan and location of the buildings, parking areas, signs, landscaping, luminaries, and other site features indicate that proper consideration has been given to both the functional aspects of the site development, such as automobile and pedestrian circulation, and the visual effects of the development from the view of the public streets. The subject property is developed with building, landscaping and parking facilities in place. The proposed construction of the garage structure will provide additional service and storage space at the same location. Also, additional parking spaces will be provided as a result of the increased square footage for the new garage structure. The existing building, pedestrian walkways, driveways and drive aisles will not be modified. As such, patrons and vehicles will be able to navigate the site efficiently and safely. E. That the proposed development will improve the community appearance by preventing extremes of dissimilarity or monotony in new construction or in alterations of facilities. The proposed structure illustrates an architectural design that differs from other uses in the vicinity, but incorporates building materials (concrete block and aluminum) found on the existing building on the subject site. Staff has incorporated conditions of approval for PLN-15-00165 (Site Plan Review), to ensure that the proposed garage structure will blend harmoniously with architectural design of the surrounding buildings. F. That the site plan and design considerations shall tend to upgrade property in the immediate neighborhood and surrounding areas with an accompanying betterment of conditions affecting the public health, safety, comfort, and welfare. The proposed structure’s design and color will integrate harmoniously with neighboring properties to the east since these properties are currently developed with industrial buildings (automobile body repair shop and automobile collision center). The project will improve the business further and increase its revenues significantly. The proposed project is a new structure that complies with the current Building Code and Fire Code regulations for structural integrity and fire safety. Agenda Page 11 Resolution No. 15-____ Downey Planning Commission PLN-15-00165 – 9606 Firestone Blvd October 21, 2015 - Page 3 G. That the proposed development’s site plan and its design features will include graffiti-resistant features and materials in accordance with the requirements of Section 4960 of Chapter 10 of Article IV of this Code. A condition of approval (Condition No. 4) stipulates the use of graffiti-resistant materials in accordance to Downey Municipal Code, Article IV, Section 4960, has been added. SECTION 4. Based upon the findings set forth in Sections 1 through 3 of this Resolution, the Planning Commission of the City of Downey hereby approves PLN-15-00165, subject to the Conditions of Approval attached hereto as Exhibit A – Conditions, which are necessary to preserve the health, safety and general welfare of the community and enable the Planning Commission to make the findings set forth in the previous sections. The conditions are fair and reasonable for the accomplishment of these purposes. SECTION 5. The Secretary shall certify the adoption of this Resolution. PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED this 21st day of October 2015. Hector Lujan, Chairman City Planning Commission I HEREBY CERTIFY that the foregoing is a true copy of a Resolution adopted by the Planning Commission of the City of Downey at a regular meeting thereof held on the 21st day of October 2015, by the following vote, to wit: AYES: COMMISSIONERS: NOES: COMMISSIONERS: ABSENT: COMMISSIONERS: ABSTAIN: COMMISSIONERS: __________________________ Mary Cavanagh, Secretary City Planning Commission Agenda Page 12 Resolution No. 15-____ Downey Planning Commission PLN-15-00165 – 9606 Firestone Blvd October 21, 2015 - Page 4 CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL PLN-15-00165 (SITE PLAN REVIEW) PLANNING 1) The approval of PLN-15-00165 (Site Plan Review) permits the construction of a 1,800 sq. ft. garage structure, for the storage and service of portable diesel generators at an existing equipment rental company, on property at 9606 Firestone Blvd. Any deviations or exceptions from said site plan, other than those authorized by this resolution or those that do not impact other conditions, shall not be permitted without the approval by the Downey Planning Commission. 2) The owner/applicant shall adhere to the approved building colors and materials for the new structure as listed on the submitted elevations dated October 2, 2015. 3) All new parking stalls and landscaped area shall comply with the requirements set forth in the Downey Municipal Code. 4) The applicant shall incorporate anti-graffiti elements into the building design, such as non-porous coatings on exterior wall surfaces, plant materials, and anti-graffiti film on windows, subject to the approval of the City Planner. 5) The owner/applicant agrees, as a condition of approval of this resolution, to indemnify, defend and hold harmless, at Applicant's expense, City and City's agents, officers and employees from and against any claim, action or proceeding commenced within the time period provided in Government Code Section 66499.37 to attack, review, set aside, void or annul the approval of this resolution, to challenge the determination made by City under the California Environmental Quality Act or to challenge the reasonableness, legality or validity of any condition attached hereto. City shall promptly notify Applicant of any such claim, action or proceeding to which City receives notice, and City will cooperate fully with Applicant in the defense thereof. Applicant shall reimburse the City for any court costs and attorney's fees that the City may be required to pay as a result of any such claim, action or proceeding. City may, in its sole discretion, participate in the defense of any such claim, action or proceeding, but such participation shall not relieve Applicant of the obligations of this condition. 6) The City Planner is authorized to make minor modifications to the approved preliminary plans or any of the conditions if such modifications shall achieve substantially the same results as would strict compliance with said plans and conditions. 7) Approval of this PLN-15-00165 (Site Plan Review) shall not be construed to mean any waiver of applicable and appropriate zoning regulations, or any Federal, State, County, and City laws and regulations. Unless otherwise expressly specified, all other requirements of the City of Downey Municipal Code shall apply. 8) The owner/applicant shall comply with all conditions of Site Plan Review (PLN-15- 00165), before this site plan review permit becomes valid. 9) All signs shall comply with the requirements set forth in the Downey Municipal Code. 10) The Applicant shall incorporate a copy of this Conditions of Approval for PLN-15-00165, into the approved set of building plans. Agenda Page 13 Resolution No. 15-____ Downey Planning Commission PLN-15-00165 – 9606 Firestone Blvd October 21, 2015 - Page 5 FIRE 11) The owner/applicant shall provide emergency lighting, exit signs, and 2A-10BC fire extinguishers to the satisfaction of the Fire Department. 12) All construction shall comply with the requirements of the 2013 California Fire Code, as amended by the City of Downey. BUILDING 13) All construction shall comply with the 2013 California Building Code and Title 24 of the California Energy Code. 14) Prior to the commencement of construction for the new structure, the applicant shall obtain all required permits. Additionally, the applicant shall obtain all necessary inspections and permit final prior to beginning operation of the site. PUBLIC WORKS/ENGINEERING 15) The owner/applicant shall obtain all necessary plan approvals and permits and shall provide that the standards of improvements, construction materials, and methods of construction shall be in conformance with the Standard Plans and Specification for Public Works Construction and as modified by the City of Downey’s Standard Plans and Specifications. 16) All areas within the scope of work of this project shall comply with the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) requirements of the Federal Clean Water Act; the General Construction Activities Stormwater Permit (GCASP) of the State, the Stormwater Quality Management Plan (SQMP) of the Los Angeles County Department of Public Works, and Ordinance 1142 of the Downey Municipal Code. 17) If applicable, the applicant shall install all new utilities associated with this project underground. Agenda Page 14 Resolution No. 15-____ Downey Planning Commission PLN-15-00165 – 9606 Firestone Blvd October 21, 2015 - Page 6 Attachment A Storm Water Pollution Control Requirements for Construction Activities Minimum Water Quality Protection Requirements for All Development Construction Projects/Certification Statement The following is intended as an attachment for construction and grading plans and represent the minimum standards of good housekeeping which must be implemented on all construction sites regardless of size. ☐ Eroded sediments and other pollutants must be retained on site and may not be transported from the site via sheetflow, swales, area drains, natural drainage courses or wind. ☐ Stockpiles of earth and other construction related materials must be protected from being transported from the site by the forces of wind or water. ☐ Fuels, oils, solvents and other toxic materials must be stored in accordance with their listing and are not to contaminate the soil and surface waters. All approved storage containers are to be protected from the weather. Spills must be cleaned up immediately and disposed of in a proper manner. Spills may not be washed into the drainage system. ☐ Non-storm water runoff from equipment and vehicle washing and any other activity shall be contained at the project site. ☐ Excess or waste concrete may not be washed into the public way or any other drainage system. Provisions shall be made to retain concrete wastes on site until they can be disposed of as solid waste. ☐ Trash and construction related solid wastes must be deposited into a covered receptacle to prevent contamination of rainwater and dispersal by wind. ☐ Sediments and other materials may not be tracked from the site by vehicle traffic. The construction entrance roadways must be stabilized so as to inhibit sediments from being deposited into the public way. Accidental depositions must be swept up immediately and may not be washed down by rain or other means. ☐ Any slopes with disturbed soils or denuded of vegetation must be stabilized so as to inhibit erosion by wind and water. ☐ Other _____________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________ As the project owner or authorized agent of the owner, I have read and understand the requirements listed above, necessary to control storm water pollution from sediments, erosion, and construction materials, and I certify that I will comply with these requirements. Project Name: _________________________________________________________ Project Address: _______________________________________________________ Print Name ______________________________________ (Owner or authorized agent of the owner) Signature _____________________________________ Date __________________ (Owner or authorized agent of the owner) Agenda Page 15