HomeMy WebLinkAbout2. PLN-18-00086 8329-8337 FirestoneSTAFF REPORT
PLANNING DIVISION
DATE: AUGUST 1, 2018
TO: PLANNING COMMISSION
SUBMITTED BY: ALDO E. SCHINDLER, DIRECTOR OF COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
REVIEWED BY: DAVID BLUMENTHAL, CITY PLANNER
PREPARED BY: MONICA ESPARZA, SENIOR PLANNER
SUBJECT: PLN-18-00086 (PLANNED SIGN PROGRAM) – A REQUEST TO
APPROVE THE SIZE, LOCATION, AND APPEARANCE OF THE SIGNS
FOR A MULTI-TENANT COMMERCIAL BUILDING
LOCATION: 8329-8337 FIRESTONE BOULEVARD
ZONING: DDSP (DOWNTOWN DOWNEY SPECIFIC PLAN)
REPORT SUMMARY
The proposed Planned Sign Program (PLN-18-00086) is a request to establish sign standards
for a multi-tenant commercial building regarding the number, location, and appearance of the new
walls signs. Based on the analysis contained within this report, staff is recommending the
Planning Commission adopt the following titled resolution:
A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF
DOWNEY APPROVING PLANNED SIGN PROGRAM (PLN-18-00086),
REGULATING THE SIZE, LOCATION, AND APPEARANCE OF THE SIGNS
FOR A MULTI-TENANT COMMERCIAL BUILDING, LOCATED AT 8329-8337
FIRESTONE BOULEVARD, AND ZONED DOWNTOWN DOWNEY SPECIFIC
PLAN
BACKGROUND
The 15,099 square feet commercial property is located on the north side of Firestone Boulevard,
between Dolan Avenue and Downey Avenue. The site is zoned DDSP (Downtown Downey
Specific Plan) with a General Plan Land Use Designation of Mixed Use. The property is currently
improved with a commercial building that contains six (6) tenant spaces and 20 parking spaces.
The primary entrances to the businesses are along Firestone Boulevard. Also, the secondary
entrances/exits are at the rear of the businesses facing the parking lot. The building façade has
recently been remodeled and therefore, it has no wall signs, except for the temporary banners.
The surrounding businesses include a commercial center to the south (across Firestone
Boulevard), a bridal store to the east of the subject building, Tacos Don Chente restaurant to the
west, and the Verizon office building borders the north side of the site.
PC Agenda Page 1
Planned Sign Program (PLN-18-00086)
August 1, 2018 - Page 2
On May 11, 2018, Juan Diaz, a representative for property owner, submitted an application (PLN-
18-00086) requesting approval of a Planned Sign Program regarding the size, location, and
appearance of the signs for the commercial building. Staff completed its review of the application
on July 11, 2018, and deemed it complete. On July 19, 2018, staff mailed a 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 9610.04 states that a Planned Sign Program shall be required for
any site having three (3) or more nonresidential tenants and shall be approved by the Planning
Commission before any sign permit is issued. The subject building and its tenant signs have
been in existence longer than the current Sign Code standards. However, the recent façade
improvement of the existing building, including the removal of the existing fabric awnings and
wall signs, triggers the requirement for the Planned Sign Program. It is important to know that
new pole signs and monument signs are not permitted in the Downtown Downey Specific Plan,
particularly on Firestone Boulevard Gateway District. As such, the Applicant’s Planned Sign
Program consists of wall signs only.
View of property from Firestone Boulevard
The applicant is proposing non-illuminated channel letter wall signs for all six tenants. Wall signs
will be mounted above the entrance/exit and windows of each tenant space. Wall signs will be
permitted a maximum of 1.5 square feet of sign for each lineal foot of the width of the tenant space.
In addition, the maximum sign’s width is sixty-six (66) percent of the width of the tenant space
frontage. However, the total square footage for all signs, including projecting and window signs,
shall not exceed one and three quarters (1.75) square feet of area for each lineal foot of the tenant
frontage.
As the table below illustrates, each tenant space allows a wall-mounted sign on the store front.
The end spaces will have signs that measure up to 13’-3” in width. The remaining interior spaces
will have signs that measure up to 10’-9” in width. It should be noted, that all of the signs meet the
requirements set forth in the Downtown Downey Specific Plan sign standards, thus the applicant is
not requesting any deviations.
Overall, staff is satisfied with the appearance of the proposed wall signs. The table on the following
page summarizes the proposed sign area per tenant sign:
PC Agenda Page 2
Planned Sign Program (PLN-18-00086)
August 1, 2018 - Page 3
Maximum sign area for all wall signs (per tenant): 1.5 sq ft per lineal foot of tenant frontage
Maximum allowable Existing sign area Proposed sign area
Tenant 8329 19’-11” x 1.5’ = 29.87 sq. ft. None 2’-3” x 13’-2” = 29.63 sq. ft.
Tenant 8331 16’-4” x 1.5’ = 24.5 sq. ft. None 2’-3” x 10’-9” = 24.19 sq. ft.
Tenant 8333 16’-4” x 1.5’ = 24.5 sq. ft. None 2’-3” x 10’-9” = 24.19 sq. ft.
Tenant 8335 16’-4” x 1.5’ = 24.5 sq. ft. None 2’-3” x 10’-9” = 24.19 sq. ft.
Tenant 8329 ½ 16’-4” x 1.5’ = 24.5 sq. ft. None 2’-3” x 10’-9” = 24.19 sq. ft.
Tenant 8337 19’-11” x 1.5’ = 29.87 sq. ft. None 2’-3” x 11’-9” = 29.38 sq. ft.
DEVELOPMENT REVIEW COMMITTEE
The proposed project did not require a review from the Development Review Committee (DRC).
However, staff presented the proposed project to the Fire and Building & Safety Departments
for their recommendations and staff received no comments from either Department.
ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS
Staff has reviewed the proposed use in compliance with the California Environmental Quality Act
(CEQA) Guidelines and determined that it is categorically exempt from CEQA, pursuant to
Guideline Section No. 15311 (Class 11, Accessory Structures). Categorical Exemptions are
projects which have been exempted from the requirements of the CEQA because they do not have
a significant effect on the environment.
FINDINGS
Pursuant to the requirements of the Municipal Code Section 9610.06 (Planned Sign Program), the
Planning Commission must make the following findings to approve the request:
1.The proposed sign is permitted within the zone and it complies with all applicable
provisions of this chapter, the General Plan, and any other applicable standards.
The subject commercial property is located within the Downtown Downey Specific Plan
zone, which permits wall signs, projecting signs, marquee signs, and awning signs. The
proposed Planned Sign Program regulates the appearance of signs and limits the
number of wall signs for each tenant space. The total allowable wall sign area for each
tenant will not exceed 1.5 square feet for each lineal foot of the width of the tenant space.
All proposed wall sign square footage will be under the maximum allowable sign area by
code. As such, the proposed Planned Sign Program will comply with all the applicable
provisions of Section 3.7 (Signage Standards and Guidelines) of the Code.
2.The sign is in proper proportion to the structure or site on which it is located.
The proposed non-illuminated, channel letter wall signs will be well spaced and in proper
proportion to the building façades of the tenant space. All letter signs are restricted to the
niches within wood panel element above the entrance to the business and all signs will be
consistent at 2’-3” tall. It is staff’s opinion that the design of the new wall signs will
compliment the architecture of the newly remodeled store front.
PC Agenda Page 3
Planned Sign Program (PLN-18-00086)
August 1, 2018 - Page 4
3.The sign materials, color, texture, size, shape, height, and placement are
compatible with the design of the structure(s), property, and neighborhood of
which it is a part.
The proposed wall signs include ½ inch thick non-illuminated channel letters that will be
mounted on a 2mm contour backer. Staff believes that the size and height have been found
to be compatible with the existing building and architecturally enhance the property. The
planned sign program will allow flexibility in regards to the font and color of each channel
letter sign. The neighborhood is commercially developed, and both the height and location
of the wall signs will not negatively impact the surrounding businesses.
4.The sign’s illumination is at the lowest reasonable level as determined by the City
Planner, which ensures adequate identification and readability, and is directed
solely at the sign or is internal to it.
All wall signs are non-illuminated, but have been designed to ensure that there is adequate
readability of the signs.
5.The sign is not detrimental to the public interest, health, safety, or welfare.
The proposed non-illuminated wall signs will be mounted at a sufficient height and location
and will not block pedestrian/vehicle access. The individual letters will affix safely to the
existing wood façade. Therefore, they will not create a detrimental impact to the public
interest, health, safety, and/or welfare.
6.The sign complies with Section 9624, Lighting and Design Standards.
All proposed signs on the building are non-illuminated. The signs will not conflict with
Downey Municipal Code Section 9624.
CORRESPONDENCE
As of the date that this report was printed, staff has not received any correspondence regarding
this matter.
CONCLUSION
Based on the analysis contained within this report, the proposed Planned Sign Program will create
aesthetically pleasing identification for the building. The proposed signs will not create a significant
adverse impact to the surrounding area. Furthermore, all six (6) findings required to approve a
Planned Sign Program can be made in a positive manner. As such, staff recommends that the
Planning Commission approve the Planned Sign Program (PLN-18-00086), subject to the
conditions of approval.
EXHIBITS
A.Vicinity Map & Aerial Photograph
B.Draft Resolution
C.Planned Sign Program
PC Agenda Page 4
Planned Sign Program (PLN-18-00086)
August 1, 2018 - Page 5
Exhibit ‘A’
Vicinity Map
Aerial Photograph
PC Agenda Page 5
RESOLUTION NO. 18-____
A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
APPROVING PLANNED SIGN PROGRAM (PLN-18-00086), REGULATING THE
SIZE, LOCATION, AND APPEARANCE OF THE SIGNS FOR A MULTI -TENANT
COMMERCIAL BUILDING, LOCATED AT 8329-8337 FIRESTONE BOULEVARD,
AND ZONED DOWNTOWN DOWNEY SPECIFIC PLAN
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.On May 11, 2018, an application was filed by Juan Diaz, (authorized agent for
the property owner), requesting approval of a Planned Sign Program, for the
size, location, and appearance of the signs for the existing multi-tenant
commercial building; and,
B.On July 11, 2018, after a careful review of the submitted information, staff deemed
the application complete; and,
C.On July 19, 2018, notice of the pending public hearing was sent to all property
owners within 500’ of the subject site and the notice was published in the
Downey Patriot; and,
D.The Planning Commission held a duly noticed public hearing on August 1, 2018,
and after fully considering all oral and written testimony, facts, and opinions
offered at the aforesaid public hearing, adopted this resolution.
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
comply with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and is categorically exempt from
CEQA, pursuant to Guideline Section No. 15311 (Class 11, Accessory 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.The proposed sign is permitted within the zone and it complies with all applicable
provisions of this chapter, the General Plan, and any other applicable standards.
The subject commercial property is located within the Downtown Downey
Specific Plan zone, which permits wall signs, projecting signs, marquee signs,
and awning signs. The proposed Planned Sign Program regulates the
appearance of signs and limits the number of wall signs for each tenant space.
The total allowable wall sign area for each tenant will not exceed 1.5 square feet
for each lineal foot of the width of the tenant space. All proposed wall sign
square footage will be under the maximum allowable sign area by code. As
such, the proposed Planned Sign Program will comply with all the applicable
provisions of Section 3.7 (Signage Standards and Guidelines) of the Code.
PC Agenda Page 6
Resolution No. 18-____
Downey Planning Commission
PLN-18-00086 (Planned Sign Program)
August 1, 2018 - Page 2
B.The sign is in proper proportion to the structure or site on which it is located.
The proposed non-illuminated, channel letter wall signs will be well spaced and in
proper proportion to the building façades of the tenant space. All letter signs are
restricted to the niches within wood panel element above the entrance to the
business and all signs will be consistent at 2’-3” tall. It is staff’s opinion that the
design of the new wall signs will compliment the architecture of the newly
remodeled store front.
C.The sign materials, color, texture, size, shape, height, and placement are
compatible with the design of the structure(s), property, and neighborhood of
which it is a part. The proposed wall signs include ½ inch thick non-illuminated
channel letters that will be mounted on a 2mm contour backer. Staff believes that
the size and height have been found to be compatible with the existing building
and architecturally enhance the property. The planned sign program will allow
flexibility in regards to the font and color of each channel letter sign. The
neighborhood is commercially developed, and both the height and location of the
wall signs will not negatively impact the surrounding businesses.
D.The sign’s illumination is at the lowest reasonable level as determined by the City
Planner, which ensures adequate identification and readability, and is directed
solely at the sign or is internal to it. All wall signs are non-illuminated, but have
been designed to ensure that there is adequate readability of the signs.
E.The sign is not detrimental to the public interest, health, safety, or welfare. The
proposed non-illuminated wall signs will be mounted at a sufficient height and
location and will not block pedestrian/vehicle access. The individual letters will
affix safely to the existing wood façade. Therefore, they will not create a
detrimental impact to the public interest, health, safety, and/or welfare.
F.The sign complies with Section 9624, Lighting and Design Standards. All
proposed signs on the building are non-illuminated. The signs will not conflict
with Downey Municipal Code Section 9624.
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 the Planned Sign
Program (PLN-18-00086), subject to conditions of approval attached hereto, 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.
PC Agenda Page 7
Resolution No. 18-____
Downey Planning Commission
PLN-18-00086 (Planned Sign Program)
August 1, 2018 - Page 3
PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED this 1st day of August 2018
Patrick Owens, 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 1st day of August
2018 by the following vote, to wit:
AYES: COMMISSIONERS:
NOES: COMMISSIONERS:
ABSENT: COMMISSIONERS:
ABSTAIN: COMMISSIONERS:
Mary Cavanagh, Secretary
City Planning Commission
PC Agenda Page 8
Resolution No. 18-____
Downey Planning Commission
PLN-18-00086 (Planned Sign Program)
August 1, 2018 - Page 4
PLN-18-00086 (PLANNED SIGN PROGRAM)
CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL
1)The approval of PLN-18-00086 (Planned Sign Program) approves the size, location,
appearance, and number of wall signs for multi-tenant commercial building, located at
8329-8337 Firestone Boulevard.
2)Wall signs shall only be mounted on the south façade (facing Firestone Boulevard) of the
subject building.
3)All wall signs shall be non-illuminated.
4)Logo box for each tenant space shall not exceed 25% of the total wall sign area.
5)An affidavit of Acceptance of Conditions, as provided by the City of Downey, shall be
sign, notarized, and returned to the Planning Division within thirty (30) days of approval.
This approval will be considered invalid until this condition has been fulfilled.
6)Approval of this Planned Sign Program 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.
7)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.
8)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.
9)Prior to the issuance of any building permit for a sign, said sign shall comply with this
Planned Sign Program, with exception of window signs and non-permit signs, which
shall comply with the requirements of the Downey Municipal Code.
10)Prior to the commencement of installation of new wall signs, the applicant shall obtain all
required Building permits, necessary inspections and permit final at the site.
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