PC Min - 11/12/2013CITY OF CAMPBELL PLANNING COMMISSION
MINUTES
7:30 P.M.
The Planning Commission meeting of November 12, 2013, was called to order at 7:30
p.m., in the Council Chambers, 70 North First Street, Campbell, California by Chair
Reynolds and the following proceedings were had, to wit:
NOVEMBER 12, 2013
CITY HALL COUNCIL CHAMBERS
TUESDAY
ROLL CALL
Commissioners Present
Chair:
Vice Chair:
Commissioner:
Commissioner:
Commissioner:
Commissioner:
Philip C. Reynolds, Jr.
Paul Resnikoff
Cynthia L. Dodd
Pam Finch
Michael L. Rich
Bob Roseberry
Commissioners Absent
Staff Present:
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Commissioner:
Comm. Dev. Director:
Planning Manager:
Associate Planner:
Associate Planner:
City Attorney:
Campbell PD Sergeant
Recording Secretary:
Yvonne Kendall
Paul Kermoyan
Aki Honda Snelling
Steve Prosser
Daniel Fama
William Seligmann
Joe Cefalu
Corinne Shinn
Motion: Upon motion by Commissioner Resnikoff, seconded by
Commissioner Roseberry, the Planning Commission minutes of
the meeting of October 8, 2013, were approved. (5-0-1-1;
Commissioner Kendall was absent and Commissioner Finch
abstained)
Campbell Planning Commission Minutes for November 12, 2013 Page 2
COMMUNICATIONS
There were no communications items.
AGENDA MODIFICATIONS OR POSTPONEMENTS
There were no agenda modifications or postponements.
ORAL REQUESTS
There were no oral requests.
PUBLIC HEARINGS
***
Chair Reynolds read Agenda Item No. 1 into the record as follows:
PLN2013-263 Public Hearing to consider the application of Jeffrey P. Patton
Patton, ,l. for a Site and Architectural Review Permit (PLN2013-263) to
allow a 583 square foot addition (449 square feet of living area
and 134 square foot rear covered porch) in an existing single-
family residence on property located at 1079 Erin Way in an R-
1 (Single Family Residential) Zoning District. Staff is
recommending that the project be deemed Categorically exempt
under CEQA. Planning Commission action final unless
appealed in writing to the City Clerk within 10 calendar days.
Project Planner: Steve Prosser, Associate Planner
Mr. Steve Prosser, Associate Planner, presented the staff report as follows:
• Reported that the applicant is seeking approval of a Site and Architectural Review
Permit to allow a minor addition to asingle-family residence at 1079 Erin Way,
located in the newly annexed Cambrian 36 district, between Shamrock and
Curtner.
• Added that this is an addition to the master bedroom located at the rear of the
house as well as a small covered porch. It will use matching colors and materials
and a minor increase in building height, minor architectural changes that include
the roof ridgelines.
• Said that the site is zoned R-1-8, which requires Site and Architectural Review
Permit to ensure conformance with the area design standards; compatibility; and
potential impacts on existing residences.
• Advised that this item was reviewed by the Site and Architectural Review
Committee on October 22, 2013. SARC was supportive and forwarded this
proposal on to the Planning Commission for decision.
• Recommended that the Planning Commission adopt a resolution approving this
Site and Architectural Review Permit subject to the conditions of approval.
Commissioner Resnikoff provided the Site and Architectural Review Committee report
as follows:
Campbell Planning Commission Minutes for November 12, 2013
Page 3
• SARC reviewed this project on October 22, 2013, and was supportive as
presented.
• Added that SARC asked about neighborhood outreach. The applicant attempted to
reach two of three adjacent owners and reached two. The third was vacant.
• Reminded that the typical 300-foot mailing was sent.
Chair Reynolds opened the Public Hearing for Agenda Item No. 1
Chair Reynolds closed the Public Hearing for Agenda Item No. 1.
Motion: Upon motion of Commissioner Resnikoff, seconded by
Commissioner Finch, the Planning Commission adopted
Resolution No. 4120 approving a Site and Architectural Review
Permit (PLN2013-263) to allow a 583 square foot addition (449
square feet of living area and 134 square foot rear covered porch)
in an existing single-family residence on property located at 1079
Erin Way, subject to the conditions of approval, by the following
roll call vote:
AYES: Dodd, Finch, Resnikoff, Reynolds, Rich and
Roseberry
NOES: None
ABSENT: Kendall
ABSTAIN: None
Chair Reynolds advised that this action is final unless appealed in writing to the City
Clerk within 10 calendar days.
***
Chair Reynolds read Agenda Item No. 2 into the record as follows:
2. PLN2013-186 Public Hearing to consider the application of Trevor Zink for a
PLN2013-292 Conditional Use Permit (PLN2013-186) and a Tree Removal
Zink, T. Permit (PLN2013-292) to remove four trees to allow the
conversion of a residence into a commercial use on property
located at 1940 Hamilton Avenue in a P-O (Professional
Office) Zoning District. Staff is recommending that the project
be deemed Categorically exempt under CEQA. Planning
Commission action final unless appealed in writing to the City
Clerk within 10 calendar days. Project Planner: Steve Prosser,
Associate Planner
Mr. Steve Prosser, Associate Planner, presented the staff report as follows:
• Reported that the applicant is seeking approval of a Conditional Use Permit and
Tree Removal Permit for a property located on the south side of E. Hamilton,
between Leigh and Phantom. It is adjacent to a P-F (Public Facilities) use.
• Added that there is a current single-family residence on the site that was built in
1894 in Queen Anne-style architecture. It is within a P-O (Professional Office)
Campbell Planning Commission Minutes for November 12, 2013 Page 4
zoning district and is currently non-conforming as a residence. This Conditional
Use Permit will change the use from single-family to professional office.
• Advised that the applicant is also requesting the removal of four trees to allow the
installation of a commercial parking area to serve the site.
• Stated that the applicant is proposing to operate a law office on this site. An interior
remodel will be done to make it work as such and to meet accessibility standards
with doorways and an ADA-compliant restroom. A wheelchair lift will be installed
on the back porch.
• Said that while this is not currently a designated Historic Resource Inventory
property, staff worked with the applicant to maintain the architectural character of
this residence, which is an example of a desirable architectural style for the City of
Campbell. The only exterior changes will occur at the back of the building.
• Explained that the four trees to be removed are in the area that will serve as
parking. Two trees must be removed regardless to create the necessary drive aisle
access. Of those two, one (a pine) is not qualified as a protected tree. The second
is an oak. Those trees selected for removal also minimize impacts on a more
desirable tree species (redwood grove) on site. Required parking will be exceeded.
• Reported that SARC reviewed this proposal at its meeting on October 22, 2013 and
recommended that it be brought forward to the Planning Commission.
• Recommended approval of this Conditional Use Permit and Tree Removal Permit
subject to the conditions of approval.
Chair Reynolds asked staff if there is the potential to add this structure to the Historic
Resource Inventory in the future.
Planner Steve Prosser said that over the next few years, the Historic Preservation
Board will be reaching out to owners of prospective additions to the HRI. HPB will
soon begin their third round and this property will be included in that effort.
Commissioner Resnikoff provided the Site and Architectural Review Committee report
as follows:
• SARC reviewed this proposal on October 22, 2013, and recommended approval of
the project without modifications.
Chair Reynolds opened the Public Hearing for Agenda Item No. 2.
Chair Reynolds closed the Public Hearing for Agenda Item No. 2.
Motion: Upon motion of Commissioner Finch, seconded by Commissioner
Dodd, the Planning Commission took the following actions:
• Adopted Resolution No. 4121 approving a Conditional Use
Permit (PLN2013-186) to allow the conversion of a residence
into a commercial use; and
• Adopted Resolution No. 4122 approving a Tree Removal
Permit (PLN2013-292) to remove four trees on property
located at 1940 Hamilton Avenue;
by the following roll call vote:
Campbell Planning Commission Minutes for November 12, 2013 Page 5
AYES: Dodd, Finch, Resnikoff, Reynolds, Rich and
Roseberry
NOES: None
ABSENT: Kendall
ABSTAIN: None
Chair Reynolds advised that this action is final unless appealed in writing to the City
Clerk within 10 calendar days.
~~*
Chair Reynolds read Agenda Item No. 3 into the record as follows:
3. PLN2013-179 Public Hearing to consider the application of EMQ-Families First
EMQ-Families fora Modification (PLN2013-179) to a previously-approved
First Conditional Use Permit to allow the establishment of a youth
crisis stabilization unit on property located at 251 Llewellyn
Avenue in a P-F (Public Facilities) Zoning District. Staff is
recommending that the project be deemed Categorically exempt
under CEQA. Planning Commission action final unless
appealed in writing to the City Clerk within 10 calendar days.
Project Planner: Daniel Fama, Associate Planner
Mr. Daniel Fama, Associate Planner, presented the staff report as follows:
• Reported that the applicant is seeking approval of a Modification to a previously-
approved Conditional Use permit for 251 Llewellyn Avenue.
• Described the project site as consisting of 5.5 acres and housing EMQ Families
First. The zoning is P-F (Public Facilities) and the General Plan land use
designation is Institutional.
• Explained that there is site access both off Llewellyn and Latimer. There is a
Planned Development to the north, single-family residences to the east and
townhomes to the southwest.
• Added that on-site uses include administrative offices, a foster care program, an
outpatient program, and a mobile crisis unit. The residential component was
relocated to the Los Gatos EMQ campus.
• Advised that what is being proposed here is a youth crisis stabilization unit that will
operate under a County contract. This unit will serve youth in severe mental
distress. This is often youth with a suicide risk. Their stay in this unit is less than
24 hours long per State law. This unit will serve up to seven children at any given
time. Based on youth currently being served by the EPS (Emergency Psychiatric
Services) unit at VMC (Valley Medical Center), the average number of youth
requiring services ranges between three and four per day. While this is a 24-hour
operation, most intakes occur between the hours of 3 p.m. and 8 p.m.
• Added that staffing includes three to four member teams, consisting of nurses,
psychiatrists and family specialists.
• Advised that the Community Development Director can determine if a use is
consistent with past activities and can therefore be considered with a Modification
to an existing Conditional Use Permit. The space proposed to serve this added
Campbell Planning Commission Minutes for November 12, 2013 Page 6
service is an existing classroom building that was built in the 1980's. There will be
minimal site layout changes. The building will be re-oriented to the rear parking lot
and a new entrance created adjacent to a new loading area. Changes will include
new doors and windows. No new outdoor lighting fixtures are proposed.
• Stated that the Campbell Police Department has reviewed the proposed security
program. The program includes search upon arrival and assessment of potential
drug and alcohol use. There will be 24-hour security present and routine check-ins
with the Campbell Police Department.
~ Explained that noise impacts can be considered for approval or denial of a
proposed use. If there are complaints in the future, this use could be brought back
before the Planning Commission for further consideration. Police cars and
ambulances would arrive without sirens or flashing lights.
• Recommended that the Planning Commission adopt a Resolution approving this
Modification to apreviously-approved Conditional Use Permit subject to the draft
conditions of approval.
Commissioner Resnikoff:
• Asked how many people may be drawn to the site with this added use in addition to
the maximum of seven children. What about families?
• Asked about staffing.
• Asked how many security guards there would be and if they would be inside or
outside of the facility.
Planner Daniel Fama:
• Responded that families can visit.
• Advised that there would be on-site security guards 24-hours per day. They would
work three 8-hour shifts and mostly remain within the building but with periodic
walks around the site.
Commissioner Resnikoff:
• Asked about the previous long-term resident care and when it left this location.
How long was it there? How many residents did it serve?
• Asked about the public outreach efforts and the proposal for twice yearly
community meetings as proposed.
• Asked about the general feeling of the neighbors at the meeting held recently.
Planner Daniel Fama:
• Suggested that the applicant address the historic use of the previous services.
• Advised that there was initial concern by nearby residents but those concerns
seemed to have been well addressed based on the responses the applicant
provided.
Commissioner Rich asked if police escort of youth to this location would always be
provided by Campbell PD.
Planner Daniel Fama advised that the youth coming to this location would come from
the entire County.
Campbell Planning Commission Minutes for November 12, 2013 Page 7
Commissioner Rich asked if alternate sites had been considered.
Planner Daniel Fama said he was not sure and would defer that question to the
applicant.
Commissioner Rich asked what is driving the need for this new unit. What is causing
the current overflow?
Planner Daniel Fama said that it is being created to serve as a new model of a
preferred way to serve children in crisis. They are currently served within the mental
health ward at VMC mostly with adults. This unit will be more nurturing and humane
for these younger patients.
Commissioner Rich asked if provision of this type of service at VMC was explored.
Planner Daniel Fama said he did not know.
Commissioner Rich asked if neighborhood concerns have been addressed.
Planner Daniel Fama said it appeared so at that meeting.
Commissioner Rich asked what happens after the initial up to 24-hour stay.
Planner Daniel Fama deferred this question to the applicant but added that extending
the stay of any child beyond 24 hours would jeopardize their State license.
Commissioner Dodd asked how many neighbors attended the community meeting.
Planner Daniel Fama said it appeared there were between 12 and 15 neighbors there.
Commissioner Dodd asked how they were notified.
Planner Daniel Fama said that he provided EMQ with a mailing list of property owners
within a 500-foot radius of their location.
Commissioner Resnikoff provided the Site and Architectural Review Committee report
as follows:
• SARC reviewed this proposal on October 22, 2013, and suggested the applicant
considered painting to help soften the appearance of the wall.
Chair Reynolds opened the Public Hearing for Agenda Item No. 3.
Peter Young, nearby resident:
• Advised that he had not received notification of the neighborhood meeting.
• Added that he spoke with City staff today and was pretty well satisfied with what he
was told.
Campbell Planning Commission Minutes for November 12, 2013 Page 8
• Stated that he was concerned about a few issues. One is the possibility of people
arriving late. Another is the possibility of not using the Latimer entrance as
opposed to the Llewellyn, which is further away from housing.
• Asked what are the plans for later evening drop offs.
Tim Grabar, resident on Latimer:
• Expressed his concern with the adequacy of a 500-foot notification list.
• Questioned why the whole neighborhood was not notified as this use could impact
the whole neighborhood.
• Suggested that the vote (decision) be postponed so he could gather his neighbors
together for input on this proposal.
• Added that he would have loved more information and would have attended the
neighborhood meeting had he known about it.
Commissioner Resnikoff asked Mr. Grabar for his specific concerns.
Tim Grabar:
• Stated that his concern is primarily safety. He pointed out that the agenda is more
descriptive of what is proposed that what was provided earlier.
• Added that he is concerned about the potential of breakouts of these youth into
their neighborhood. He is also concerned about the possibility of violence
occurring.
• Asked if the on-site security would be armed.
• Recounted that there had been a number of escapes from younger kids from EMQ
in the past. He heard this from residents living on Kings and Queens Courts, which
are located across the street from EMQ.
Commissioner Resnikoff said that the Commission would ask the applicant for more
information about its security plan.
Chair Reynolds asked Mr. Grabar if he is here as an individual or representing his
neighborhood group.
Tim Grabar said he is representing both himself and his neighborhood. He added that
if a decision were to be postponed, he could have a full house at the next meeting. He
said that the neighborhood needs to be informed.
Commissioner Resnikoff asked staff to explain to Mr. Grabar the noticing
requirements.
Planner Daniel Fama:
• Explained that public outreach by an applicant is encouraged but is not a Code
requirement. It is voluntary.
• Added that staff prepared the mailing list used by EMQ to invite nearby residents to
its community meeting.
• Advised that the normal noticing distance is 300-foot for Planning Commission
public hearing items but he created a list closest to 500 feet in this matter.
Campbell Planning Commission Minutes for November 12, 2013 Page 9
• Added that the applicant relied on the list provided and sent invitational postcards
using those labels.
Commissioner Resnikoff asked how the distance is measured.
Planner Daniel Fama said that staff uses a computer program that is based off the
outer boundaries of the subject parcel.
Commissioner Rich pointed out a lack of fairness that some people who did not get
noticed could be impacted by this proposed use.
Planner Daniel Fama reminded that meeting agenda information is included on the
City's website and advertised in the Campbell Express.
Laura Champion, Executive Director, EMQ Families First:
• Offered to answer the questions raised thus far.
• Said that the previous residential facility component was on site there for 40 years
and there were 10 beds.
• Added that between 2001 and 2004, an additional unit was on site serving as a
children's shelter with 10 beds. By 2004, those children were served by a
community-based approach.
• Admitted that alternate sites could have been considered including one in Los
Gatos and two in San Jose. One is on Gish Road and the other on Tully.
However, neither is appropriate and not easily accessible for families. The Los
Gatos campus is not easily accessible either.
• Added that they needed to locate in a site that is in close proximity to VMC and that
is centralized within the County.
• Explained that in using the VMC trends to project use, they will likely see up to
three youth per day and typically arriving between 3 p.m. and 8 p.m. There is not
usually a lot of late night access for children.
• Assured that there would be no use of police sirens. It is anon-emergency
approach.
• Added that they will have agreements in place with any jurisdictions delivering
youth to this location to assure that sirens not be used to approach their building.
• Said that in regard to the neighborhood meeting, they had sent out notification
mailers and found that the evening meeting held went well.
• Added that there will be ongoing community meetings held twice each year to
address any concerns and will include Campbell PD. Concerns raised will be
addressed quickly.
• Said that in regard to security, what is proposed here is a different unit than was
previously here. It is a secure building. Patients will arrive under Police or EMS
escort. These young patients would not be able to leave the secure building. That
is for their safety as well as the safety of the community.
• Said that there will be a security guard on site 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
There will be skilled therapeutic staff that has provided skilled care over a long
period of time.
Campbell Planning Commission Minutes for November 12, 2013 Page 10
• Advised that no one is armed on the premises. Police protocol is for them to lock
weapons in their car when accessing this facility.
• Described the type of child served. She said that a majority of them (97 percent)
are in danger of harm to themselves. They are hopeless and suicidal. However,
they are not actively acting out. The intent is to determine what their needs are to
allow them to go home safely.
• Reiterated that they have not been violent out in the community and have not
committed any crimes. They are just fragile emotionally and need a safe place and
a proactive link to ongoing services.
• Said that this population is currently being served at VMC, an environment
predominately serving adults. That is not a place for children to receive
compassionate care.
Commissioner Rich:
• Asked for further input on EMQ's consideration of alternate sites including Gish,
Tully and Los Gatos.
• Asked if access is the main the reason their Campbell site was selected for this
unit?
• Asked if having it here means that more traffic would be coming to this location
than previously?
• Asked for specifics as to why the other locations were not selected.
Laura Champion:
• Reminded that they would generally see three or fewer children per day.
• Explained that the Gish location is a business building and was never utilized to
provide residential services. It is located within an industrial area.
• Added that the Tully location is rented. It is not within their purview to purchase it.
It houses business offices. This location is next to the freeway and is not optimal
for care and access.
• Reiterated that they need a centralized location.
• Reminded that the Campbell location has provided 40 years of residential services.
• Said that the Los Gatos location is very far removed for a centralized use that
serves children from throughout the County. It is located up on Loma Alta and
some families would need up to three bus transfer to get there.
• Stated that there is no alternative to expand into this unit within VMC and she will
ask Dr. Pena to elaborate.
Commissioner Dodd:
• Asked Ms. Champion if there would be a different area for the families in addition to
the lock down unit.
• Expressed concern about the need for monitoring of the parking lots.
Laura Champion:
• Assured that there is a separate area for families to congregate and work with staff.
• Added that all work is done inside.
• Stated that they don't anticipate families congregating in the parking lot. There is
urgency in getting their child back home.
Campbell Planning Commission Minutes for November 12, 2013 Page 11
Commissioner Dodd pointed out that perhaps extended family would arrive and need
to be managed as well.
Laura Champion said she would add that to her security plan to monitor and
encourage people to come into the building.
Commissioner Dodd asked about the alternate entrance issue raised.
Laura Champion said she would defer that question to their Facilities Operations
Director who is present this evening.
Commissioner Resnikoff:
• Said that Commissioner Dodd has raised a good point about non-patients and a
mandate that they congregate in a waiting area rather than outside in the parking
area.
• Reminded that this Commission has been told that per what is currently happening
at VMC, the drop off of youth patients occurs mainly between 3 p.m. and 8 p.m. Is
that the latest?
Laura Champion said that is the current trend of utilization at VMC. She cautioned that
they (EMQ) are open 24/7.
Commissioner Resnikoff asked about normal processing time.
Laura Champion said the plan is that a child not go to VMC but rather come directly to
us (EMQ) instead.
Commissioner Resnikoff asked about expected release hours.
Laura Champion said they prefer daytime hours for release. However, they also don't
want a child to stay any longer than necessary. It takes between two and three hours
for assessment. Afterwards, a team follows the child back to their home.
Commissioner Resnikoff asked Ms. Champion for a profile of those typically on this
campus.
Laura Champion:
• Explained that this site serves as EMQ's corporate offices. EMQ provides services
within 30 counties in California including foster and adoptive services; outpatient
clinic; traditional therapy (individual, group and family). The site also houses
clinical leadership offices. The mobile crisis team is based here but they work out
in the community.
Commissioner Resnikoff asked the mix of adults and children.
Campbell Planning Commission Minutes for November 12, 2013 Page 12
Laura Champion said that the proposed secure building will be nearly impossible for a
child to flee. She added that these children are met by a highly trained and skilled
staff.
Commissioner Roseberry:
• Said that Ms. Champion has answered a lot of his questions.
• Added that there is an on-going operation here and he asks how that operation is
changing.
• Asked what number of beds before? What was the average length of stay?
Laura Champion:
• Explained that there were 10 beds and the stays were longer term and on average
10 months.
• Added that prior to relocating the residential component, children would stay up to
four or five years. They would live, sleep and be cared there and attend school off
site. The average length of stay now is 10 months.
• Advised that the change they are now proposing is a secured building to offer very
brief evaluations and the opportunity to work with families immediately to transition
that child back home. This is not a place to live. The model they operate under is
to get a child back home. Most (about 75 percent) can be stabilized at home right
away.
Commissioner Roseberry:
• Clarified that before the average stay was 10 month.
• Asked if now there would no longer be lengthier stays.
• Asked about the staff versus patient ratio.
Laura Champion:
• Said that she believes there is a staff of 160 on site. They see about 40 to 50
children on site.
• Added that a majority of their services are offered out in the community.
Commissioner Roseberry asked the number of children served on site each day.
Laura Champion clarified that it is about 40 to 50. Not all are there at once. It is
throughout the day.
Commissioner Roseberry asked about the capacity of this building and others.
Laura Champion said that they will usually have about three patients in the secure unit.
The other buildings are out-patient use.
Commissioner Roseberry asked why so few.
Laura Champion said that it is the nature of the care provided. These youth need
stabilization as they are suicidal.
Campbell Planning Commission Minutes for November 12, 2013 Page 13
Commissioner Rich pointed out that this site once served residential care uses and
families came to visit. That residential care is now occurring at their Los Gatos
location instead. Do families manage to visit there?
Laura Champion replied yes.
Commissioner Dodd said that with those beds moved to the Los Gatos location, will
there now be an increase or a decrease in the number of children seen on site here in
Campbell.
Laura Champion said there would be a negligible increase.
Chair Reynolds asked what happens beyond the hours of 3 to 8 p.m. How are child
arrivals dealt with outside of those hours.
Laura Champion said that they typically dispatch their mobile crisis team, which has
been in operation for 15 years. That service continues. If the child can go home, they
will go directly with the mobile team. If not able to go home, they would come onto this
unit for stabilization and assessment. If not, hospital placement. She reminded that
there is no psychiatric hospital in Santa Clara County specifically for children.
Dr. Nancy Pena, Director of Santa Clara County Mental Health Department:
• Stated that she has served 13 years in her current position and prior to that was the
Children's Director. She has been with the County Health Department since 1985.
• Added that she has a long experience working together with EMQ. Many children
have been served through their programs.
• Described the 5150 process during which a patient is detained by either a law
enforcement or mental health professional within a secure facility. That patient is
considered to be a danger to self or others and needs to be evaluated medically.
This is an involuntary evaluation that must be done immediately by a psychiatrist.
• Added that if a crime has been committed, they are not coming to this EMQ facility.
Any patient with a medical concern, on meds, intoxicated or has visible injuries is
taken instead to an emergency room. No medical treatment is offered at this
particular EMQ location. It is solely to provide psychiatric treatment.
• Reported that her first job with the County she evaluated every child taken into the
psych unit at VMC.
• Added that the hospital (VMC) is legally obligated to serve them if they are brought
there directly. She said that patients that need to go to juvenile hall would not be
brought to EMQ.
• Stated that per Census information, there are between 30 and 50 psychiatric
emergencies every day. Most are calm and in a waiting mode. During the time
they are in the VMC psych unit, their parents have no access or ability to speak
with their child. That is an unacceptable situation that has been in place for many
years. There is no space at VMC to create a facility solely to serve child psychiatric
patients at VMC.
• Said that in California, a Crisis Stabilization Unit offers the best practices method of
service to these young patients. It includes community-based care and non-
institutionalized care.
Campbell Planning Commission Minutes for November 12, 2013 Page 14
• Said the reason to go with EMQ for the provision of this sort of stabilization unit is
for a continuum of service. They are the only current provider and over the last 15
years have offered their mobile services.
• Said that if a child is brought to this Crisis Stabilization Unit, they must be medically
seen quickly and a decision made. Perhaps it will involve talking through the
situation or it may require medication. If the child is not safe, he or she is
transported to hospital.
• Reiterated that it is anticipated that the load will be up to three patients per day at
most. There are 10 children a day in hospital somewhere in the County.
Commission Rich asked if space is the sole reason this unit is not being established at
VMC.
Dr. Nancy Pena said it is space requirements and licensing restrictions among other
reasons.
Peter Young, nearby neighbor:
• Reminded that his chief concern is that the entrance to this unit comes from
Latimer rather than Llewellyn. Since it is further from residential uses, it would be
ideal for receiving people at night.
Planner Daniel Fama:
• Confirmed that there are currently two access points to this EMQ campus. The
main one is from Llewellyn and a secondary one is from Latimer.
• Said that the drop offs would be via the Latimer driveway.
• Added that the edge of the driveway currently lacks required landscaping and a
condition of approval is imposed that requires updated landscaping be placed
there.
John Hickey, Attorney for EMQ and VMC:
• Suggested that the Police Department representative address the site security
plans.
• Admitted that they had been concerned about the potential of this entitlement
process getting dragged out.
• Stated that there is on-going concern about the environment at VMC when it comes
to serving kids' emergency psychiatric needs.
• Agreed that bringing this service into a residential area may seem scary for its
neighbors but it is good for the community.
Dennis Johnson, former client of EMQ:
• Recounted that when he was 14 years old, he was in a group home and separated
from his friends and family. After an unsuccessful suicide attempt, he was sent to
EPS (Emergency Psychiatric Services), which was like putting a kid into a real
cuckoos' nest. He was put into a room with no door that was just across the hall
from a room where adults were being restrained. He spent four terrifying hours
there before he was moved over to EMQ.
Campbell Planning Commission Minutes for November 12, 2013 Page 15
• Added that he found EMQ to be a nurturing environment while the VMC program
strikes fear in kids. It's the last place you want to go.
• Stated that the concept of a CSU (Crisis Stabilization Unit) is a better alternative for
a child.
• Reminded that EMQ has been serving kids in this area for 100 years and they
know what they are doing. They are well trained.
• Added that a 24-hour stay is better served within a nurturing environment. That's
what EMQ does in a nutshell. They get kids back with their families as quickly as
possible.
Commissioner Rich thanked Mr. Johnson for his comments, which were most helpful.
He asked at which location Mr. Johnson was served.
Dennis Johnson said he was at the Campbell EMQ.
Commissioner Rich asked Mr. Johnson if he is familiar with the other EMQ locations
Dennis Johnson said he has visited the offices on Gish but has never been to the Los
Gatos location. He received therapy at Campbell for four years.
Sergeant Joe Cefalu, Campbell Police Department:
• Stated that a lot of the questions about security appear to have been answered.
• Added that the Campbell PD is a part of the 5150 process.
Commissioner Roseberry:
• Pointed out that EMQ has been at this location for a long time.
• Asked Sergeant Cefalu to discuss Campbell PD's experience with this Campbell
EMQ location.
Sergeant Joe Cefalu:
• Explained that he has been with CPD for 17 years and has a lot of experience with
EMQ.
• Added that when it was an unlocked facility, there were a number of problems
because of that fact. They couldn't restrain kids.
• Stated that what is proposed with this new stabilization unit is different from that.
• Advised that when Campbell PD gets a call about a crisis in a home, they must
make a determination as to whether that child needs psychiatric service. If so, the
child is handcuffed and taken to EPS at VMC where they stay handcuffed.
• Said that this new unit will change that. Upon arrival at the EMQ location, police
will leave all weapons locked in the car. While the child is still in handcuffs while in
the car, those handcuffs are immediately removed once the child is within the
locked facility and turned over to staff.
• Reported that when he first looked at this application, there was no security plan in
place and he advised that such a plan was necessary. When told that, EMQ was
cooperative and came up with the security plan that includes a security guard on
site, cameras, a locked facility, as well as signage.
Campbell Planning Commission Minutes for November 12, 2013 Page 16
• Stated that two-thirds of the Campbell PD officers have obtained CIT (Crisis
Intervention Training).
Commissioner Roseberry asked about statistics on number for calls for service. Will
they be different with this new unit than had been generated with the previous
operations?
Sergeant Joe Cefalu:
• Said that demand varied. There are ebbs and flows but likely averaged two or
three calls a month.
• Reminded that the operations at that time were under a different model than this
proposed locked facility.
• Said that while they don't foresee a big problem, if there is a crisis that staff cannot
handle, PD will respond.
• Reported that typically there are one or two calls a week to CPD of a child in crisis.
However, they are not usually brought to a facility.
• Reminded that children from as far away as Gilroy or Morgan Hill will come here
instead of being taken to EPS and VMC.
• Stated that if Campbell PD notices an excessive increase in call volumes, it will
address that with EMQ.
• Said that they don't foresee contraband being brought into this facility unless the
child is brought in by anon-police officer. Police search everyone several times.
Commissioner Rich asked Sergeant Cefalu if this proposed security plan is adequate
when compared to those of other facilities.
Sergeant Joe Cefalu said that this plan is on par with the others. All doors are locked
and there is good site lighting. They have swell-trained staff and on-site security
guard. This is a good security plan.
Commissioner Rich asked if it is normal to have a locked facility in a highly residential
area.
Sergeant Joe Cefalu said that EPS is at VMC. VMC is surrounded by commercial
buildings. He said he has no dealings with such facilities within residential areas.
There is a female jail located in Santa Cruz within a residential area.
Commissioner Rich asked Sergeant Joe Cefalu if Campbell PD is understaffed. Are
there concerns?
Sergeant Joe Cefalu said that staffing is okay. Campbell PD is hiring three officers
that will be on the street within one year for a total of 42 officers. He reiterated that this
could be reassessed if a large volume of calls are generated by this new unit at EMQ.
Commissioner Resnikoff asked if the incidents derived from EMQ in the past 40 years
were mostly the result of kids walking away. Did they create problems in the
neighborhood?
Campbell Planning Commission Minutes for November 12, 2013 Page 17
Sergeant Joe Cefalu said that the majority were simply kids walking away.
Occasionally there were disturbances or fights in the facility. He said he doesn't recall
problems between a child from EMQ and a citizen in the surrounding neighborhood.
He concluded that a majority (or about 85 percent) were runaways.
Commissioner Resnikoff pointed out that as a closed facility the problem of walking out
will not come up. He asked about the role of the security guard and what specialized
training they might have. Will they be charged with keeping people in or keeping
people out of the facility?
Sergeant Joe Cefalu said the on-site security guards are primarily there to support
facility staff. He said he would recommend CIT (Crisis Intervention Training) training,
which is a 40-hour class that is extremely helpful.
Commissioner Resnikoff asked what percentage of these young patients would be
brought in by law enforcement.
Sergeant Joe Cefalu said he would have to defer that question to EMQ as he does not
know the breakdown on who brings in children to the center.
Commissioner Resnikoff asked Sergeant Joe Cefalu if Campbell PD is supportive of
this application and of staff's recommendations.
Sergeant Joe Cefalu replied yes
Commissioner Roseberry said that these children are more at risk than the children
served on this site previously.
Sergeant Joe Cefalu said he must defer that question to EMQ staff.
Chair Reynolds said that with the 10-foot high wall that is required by State regulations,
is there potential that we could someday see an entire gated campus here?
Sergeant Joe Cefalu said he didn't know. He asked if Chair Reynolds is wondering if
this could someday become a jail facility.
Chair Reynolds:
• Said that perhaps in the name of mental health.
• Asked about the under 24 hour maximum stay allowed.
• Asked staff if the Commission is approving more than the applicant is asking for
today?
Director Paul Kermoyan said that what is presented this evening is what is being
approved. It would have to be reanalyzed if any changes are proposed in the future.
Commissioner Resnikoff added that if it is brought back before the Planning
Commission in the future that additional review would re-open all of the existing
conditions of approval for consideration and modification as necessary.
Campbell Planning Commission Minutes for November 12, 2013 Page 18
Director Paul Kermoyan agreed that if an intensification of this use were desired in the
future, it would be brought back to the Planning Commission and the CUP would be
open again for consideration in all respects.
Planner Daniel Fama referenced condition 5-A, that identifies this use as a crisis
stabilization unit for children. This is awell-stated and defined activity. Nothing else is
allowed under this CUP.
Commissioner Resnikoff said nothing beyond what is under consideration today.
Director Paul Kermoyan added that the applicant had originally thought that this use
was a continuation of their decades of treatment on this property. Planning staff felt it
was different enough to be re-considered by the Planning Commission. He stressed
that any future changes would have to come back to the PC for consideration.
Laura Champion said that they will be serving the same children but from within a
secure setting. They had closed their residential beds since 1994 but at one time they
had 154 residential beds. They closed all but 20 and now provide most services out in
the community. She stated that it is not their intention to lock children up but rather to
return them to the community.
Peter Young, nearby neighbor, said that it seems there are conflicting statements
about site lighting.
Planner Daniel Fama said that the existing lighting is sufficient. Per condition 8, any
new lighting must be consistent with Lighting Ordinance standards to avoid spillage of
lighting over onto adjacent properties.
Chair Reynolds closed the Public Hearing for Agenda Item No. 3.
Commissioner Finch:
• Thanked Dennis Johnson for his testimony. He provided very brave and moving
comments. There can be no better source of information about this very necessary
service for young people.
• Added that Dr. Pena has pointed out that none of the young people being brought
to this unit at EMQ will have criminal behavior or medical issues. Those go to
juvenile hall or hospitals.
• Stated that having children served within an adult psych facility is appalling.
• Said that Campbell PD supports this application and that speaks miles for her.
• Concluded that she is fully in favor of this application.
Commissioner Dodd:
• Said that she knows of EMQ over the years. They are a longstanding organization
providing very necessary services to youth in a timely manner.
• Added that it will be a bonus to have this service located so close by.
• Said that her experience with EMQ was the times residents had run away who
were students in her school.
Campbell Planning Commission Minutes for November 12, 2013 Page 19
• Concluded that EMQ achieves more positive outcomes than anything else.
Commissioner Rich:
• Thanked Dennis Johnson for his testimony.
• Said that his major concerns are the nearby neighbors who did not get notice of this
proposal.
• Stated that since there is potential for far reaching impacts, it is of concern that
some neighbors are not aware of this project.
• Said that he is not convinced that other EMQ facilities could not be just as
appropriate as their Campbell location for this unit. It's just as easy to get to Los
Gatos as to Campbell.
• Added that there are security concerns with this location being within a densely
residential neighborhood. That is not the norm and that concerns him.
• Concluded that based on what he has heard, he is not in favor of this application.
Commissioner Resnikoff:
• Said that it is a tough call.
• Agreed that this is a good service providing an important need.
• Added that safety in the area is also an important issue.
• Pointed out that it will not be the same situation between what is proposed as a
closed unit from the previous unsecured facility.
• Reminded that Campbell PD is supporting this without hesitation.
• Agreed that the testimony from Dennis Johnson was very compelling.
• Said that the proposed CUP has a security plan, noise is addressed, community
meetings will take place twice a year and noticed within 300 feet and perhaps
extend that noticing further outward.
• Suggested using NextDoor to keep people informed.
• Said that the noticing that went out was in excess of 300 feet and there is no Code
requirement for any such mailing at all. They exceeded noticing requirements.
• Suggested an added condition to mandate that family remain inside the building
within a family waiting room.
• Referenced Condition 4 that provides provisions for revocation should problems
arise.
• Said that the need outweighs the concerns raised and he will support this
application.
Commissioner Roseberry:
• Said that everything has been said.
• Pointed out that this is not a new facility. EMQ has operated here for a long time.
• Said the difference is that it will now be operated as a secured facility. However, it
is not a jail. No crimes have been committed by the youth served here.
• Stated that it is not as spooky as it might sound.
• Concluded that this is a well thought out proposal with a lot of input by a lot of
people. EMQ has offered a lot of accommodations to make this fit.
Chair Reynolds:
• Stated he would suggest adding a couple of conditions.
Campbell Planning Commission Minutes for November 12, 2013 Page 20
• Said that one recommendation is to require an inside waiting room for use by
family. Another is the CIT training, as suggested by Sergeant Joe Cefalu, for the
EMQ security guards who act as the first responders to problems on site.
• Said that neighbor concerns have been addressed.
• Said that he does agree with concerns about noticing as impacts could reach
further than 300 to 500 feet away.
• Suggested that this use could actually lead to the need for disclosure requirements
upon sale of real estate in the immediate area and impact nearby property values.
Potential buyers may misjudge what is occurring here.
• Stated that noticing deficiencies need to be addressed by staff and Council as
neither 300 nor even 500 foot noticing is sufficient.
• Thanked the speakers who spoke this evening.
• Added that Dennis Johnson was particularly compelling.
• Commented that his "therapy" was rendered by his father with the use of a leather
belt.
• Agreed that mental health issues are a reality today that society must deal with.
• Reminded that EMQ would not be handling criminals but rather kids who need
services. He can support that as a parent and grandparent. Kids have a tough
time today. It is a violent society. There is an obligation to do want we can.
• Opined that mental health issues should be borne by the State. However, it is
pushed to the Counties and now to local level jurisdictions. This needs to be taken
care of in Sacramento rather than locally.
• Said that he would support this application with the two added conditions and with a
request that the City seriously address its noticing to neighbors.
• Pointed out that this item would come back for further review if problems result.
• Suggested that better outreach be provided for the six-month reviews.
Commissioner Resnikoff said he is not sure that the CIT training is open to civilians.
He expressed support for 500 foot mailings and for using NextDoor to help provide
community updates on pending hearings.
Chair Reynolds asked if the CIT training could be mandated.
City Attorney William Seligmann said he was not sure. He said it would be important
to be specific as to what type of certification might be required and if it is even
available. Such training can be required if it is available.
Commissioner Resnikoff said he would support requiring CIT training if it is available to
civilians.
Commissioner Dodd said that they might provide appropriate training of another sort
instead if the CIT training is not available to non police personnel.
Chair Reynolds suggested putting that in the conditions and moving forward.
Director Paul Kermoyan suggested placing the requirement for a waiting room for
families in the floor plan per Condition 1. The outside monitoring plan can be
Campbell Planning Commission Minutes for November 12, 2013 Page 21
incorporated into Condition 5-E. The CIT (or comparable) training could be
incorporated into Condition 5-E as well.
Commissioner Resnikoff added upping notification to 500 feet per Condition 5-H.
Motion: Upon motion of Commissioner Roseberry, seconded by
Commissioner Resnikoff, the Planning Commission adopted
Resolution No. 4123 approving a Modification (PLN2013-179) to a
previously-approved Conditional Use Permit to allow the
establishment of a youth crisis stabilization unit on property
located at 251 Llewellyn Avenue, subject to the conditions of
approval as amended:
• Requiring outside monitoring by security personnel;
• Requiring on-site security personnel to receive specified
training that is comparable to the Crisis Intervention Training
received by Campbell PD;
• Amending Condition 5-H to increase noticing to 500 feet of the
twice yearly neighborhood meetings;
by the following roll call vote:
AYES: Dodd, Finch, Resnikoff, Reynolds and Roseberry
NOES: Rich
ABSENT: Kendall
ABSTAIN: None
Chair Reynolds advised that this action is final unless appealed in writing to the City
Clerk within 10 calendar days.
***
Chair Reynolds read Agenda Item No. 4 into the record as follows:
4. PLN2013-203 Public Hearing to consider the application of Farideh Zamani for a
Zamani, F. Conditional Use Permit (PLN2013-203) to allow additions to an
Historic Resource designated property located within the Alice
Avenue Historic District to allow a 1,658 square foot one-story rear
addition and a 460 square foot attached porte-cochere to an
existing 1,186 square foot one-story residence and a new
detached tandem two-car garage with an attached secondary
living unit on property located at 99 Alice Avenue in an R-1-6 (H)
(Single Family Residential/Historic Overlay) Zoning District. Staff
is recommending that the project be deemed Categorically exempt
under CEQA. Planning Commission action final unless appealed
in writing to the City Clerk within 10 calendar days. Project
Planner: Steve Prosser, Associate Planner
Mr. Steve Prosser, Associate Planner, presented the staff report as follows:
• Reported that the applicant is seeking approval of a Conditional Use Permit to allow
an addition to an existing single-family residence located on the north side of Alice
Campbell Planning Commission Minutes for November 12, 2013 Page 22
Avenue between Third and Winchester. The site contains asingle-story structure
and detached garage.
• Described the site zoning as R-1-6-(H), which is single family residential with an
historic overlay. This zoning requires approval of a Conditional Use Permit to allow
the alteration or addition to an Historic Resource Inventory property, a Landmark or
a property located within an Historic District.
• Said that this applicant is proposing a 1,600 square foot addition to the existing
home, atwo-vehicle carport, and a secondary dwelling unit with attached garage.
Second dwelling units are allowed on lots over 10,000 square feet as long as the
site meets the parking standard.
• Said that the home's architecture is California Bungalow and was constructed in
1924. In 1984, the home was included on the City's Historic Resource Inventory.
In 1987 the City Council identified Alice Avenue as the City's only Residential
Historic District, which makes this proposal subject to a higher level of review.
• Added that this home has been vacant for about 20 years.
• Reported that the Historic Preservation Board (HPB) reviewed this proposal at a
meeting held on August 28, 2013. At the time the proposal was for an addition to
the rear of the home and an attached one-car garage. However, that would reduce
the side setback to the property line to five feet where 12 feet are required.
• Said that this project must be consistent with the Historic Residential Design
Guidelines.
• Reported that HPB had difficulty making a recommendation for approval based on
those design guidelines and continued this project to its meeting of September 25,
2013. At that time, the applicant had a revised design with a reduced ridge height
and had converted the proposed one-car garage into atwo-car covered carport.
However, the five-foot setback remained. That is 7-feet less than the required 12
foot setback. Therefore, HPB still could not support this and adopted a resolution
to recommend that the Planning Commission deny it. While HPB offered the
applicant an opportunity to return for a third time, the applicant asked to move on
directly to SARC review.
• Stated that the applicant met with SARC on October 22, 2013, with revised plans.
However, SARC had similar comments to HPB. The applicant then provided SARC
with a revised site plan that addressed (increased) the deficient setback and also
removed one column from the carport and SARC was favorable with those
revisions as was HPB Chair Tim Walter, who also participated in that SARC
meeting. SARC sent in on to the Planning Commission with no further changes
except for a condition regarding landscaping, which has been incorporated into the
conditions of approval.
• Recommended that the Planning Commission adopt a resolution approving a
Conditional Use Permit to allow this project subject to the proposed conditions of
approval.
Commissioner Resnikoff provided the Site and Architectural Review Committee report
as follows:
• SARC reviewed this proposal on October 22, 2013, and HBP Chair Todd Walter
attended and participated. SARC was advised that HPB had three concerns
remaining.
Campbell Planning Commission Minutes for November 12, 2013 Page 23
• Stated that the architect revised the plans to expand the side setback by two-feet,
six-inches (2'6"). The project will also utilize atwo-vehicle porte-cochere (carport)
design that better serves the architecture than the originally proposed one-car
attached garage.
• Listed the three issues that were settled included:
o The original incompatible attached parking garage. Now a carport.
o Increased roof height roof design was determined not to detract from the
existing surroundings.
o The 7 foot, 6 inch setback, while still deficient by five feet, will have a
minimal impact.
• Added that staff recommended adding a condition of approval requiring
landscaping along the side yard with a reduced setback to help reduce impacts.
• Said that HPB Chair Todd Walter confirmed that these revisions met HPB's
recommendations.
• Concluded that SARC was prepared to forward this item on to the Planning
Commission for decision.
Chair Reynolds opened the Public Hearing for Agenda Item No. 4.
Roaten Hinson, Project Architect:
• Said that since his client is an interior designer, compromising on her desired
design plan was very difficult for her.
• Added that the discussion with SARC helped her to understand that the
recommendations being offered could help her to get this project approved.
• Acknowledged the remaining deficient setback issue that is five feet less than
required. As a result they moved the master bedroom wing by a few feet.
• Stated that Planner Steve Prosser's presentation of this proposal was excellent.
They have reviewed the conditions of approval and his client agrees with them and
wants to move forward.
Chair Reynolds closed the Public Hearing for Agenda Item No. 4.
Commissioner Finch:
• Thanked HPB Chair Todd Walter and the HBP Committee for the work they do with
all of these historic sites in our City.
• Added that she loves to see sites protected and preserved rather than torn down.
• Thanked the applicant for her compromises.
Motion: Upon motion of Commissioner Resnikoff, seconded by
Commissioner Rich, the Planning Commission adopted
Resolution No. 4124 approving a Conditional Use Permit
(PLN2013-203) to allow additions to an Historic Resource
designated property located within the Alice Avenue Historic
District to allow a 1,658 square foot one-story rear addition and a
460 square foot attached porte-cochere to an existing 1,186
square foot one-story residence and a new detached tandem two-
Campbell Planning Commission Minutes for November 12, 2013
Page 24
car garage with an attached secondary living unit on property
located at 99 Alice Avenue, by the following roll call vote:
AYES: Dodd, Finch, Resnikoff, Reynolds, Rich and
Roseberry
NOES: None
ABSENT: Kendall
ABSTAIN: None
Chair Reynolds advised that this action is final unless appealed in writing to the City
Clerk within 10 calendar days.
,~*~
REPORT OF THE COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR
Director Paul Kermoyan had no additions to his written report.
ADJOURNMENT
The Planning Commission meeting adjourned at 10:03 p.m. to the next Regular
Planning Commission Meeting of November 26, 2013.
SUBMITTED BY:
Corinne Shinn, Recording Secretary
APPROVED BY:
Phili C. R yno s, Jr., Chair
~ t~
ATTEST: .- "
Pau Ke yan, Secretary