PC Min - 06/12/2018CITY OF CAMPBELL PLANNING COMMISSION
MINUTES
7:30 P.M.
JUNE 12, 2018
CITY HALL COUNCIL CHAMBERS
TUESDAY
The Planning Commission meeting of June 12, 2018, was called to order at 7:30 p.m.,
in the Council Chambers, 70 North first Street, Campbell, California by Chair Rich and
the following proceedings were had, to wit:
ROLL CALL
Commissioners Present:
Chair:
Vice Chair:
Commissioner:
Commissioner:
Commissioner:
Commissioner:
Commissioners Absent: Commissioner:
Staff Present:
Community Development
Director:
Senior Planner:
Associate Planner:
City Attorney:
Recording Secretary:
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Michael L. Rich
JoElle Hernandez
Stuart Ching
Mike Krey
Maggie Ostrowski
Andrew Rivlin
Cynthia L. Dodd
Paul Kermoyan
Daniel Fama
Stephen Rose
William Seligmann
Corinne Shinn
Motion: Upon motion by Commissioner Krey, seconded by Commissioner
Rivlin, the Planning Commission minutes of the meeting of May 22,
2018, were approved as submitted. (5-0-1-2; Commissioner Dodd
was absent and Chair Rich and Vice Chair Hernandez abstained)
Campbell Planning Commission Minutes for June 12, 2018 Page 2
COMMUNICATIONS
1. Email pertaining to Agenda Item No. 1.
AGENDA MODIFICATIONS OR POSTPONEMENTS
None
ORAL REQUESTS
None
PUBLIC HEARINGS
***
Chair Rich read Agenda Item No. 1 into the record as follows:
1. PLN2018-61 Public Hearing to consider the application of Mike Ma for a Site
(S&A) and Architectural Review Permit (PLN2018-61) to allow the
PLN2018-62 construction of a new single-family residence and a Tree Removal
(TRP) Permit (PLN2018-62) to allow the removal of a protected tree (Oak)
on property located at 1572 Theresa Avenue. Staff is
recommending that this project be found Categorically Exempt
under CEQA. Planning Commission action final unless appealed
in writing to the City Clerk within 10 calendar days. Project
Planner: Stephen Rose, Associate Planner
Mr. Stephen Rose, Associate Planner, presented the staff report
Commissioner Rivlin provided the Site and Architectural Review Committee report as
follows:
• SARC was generally supportive
• Stated that SARC talked about the protected tree.
• Added that SARC was concerned about the glass garage door in regards to the
opacity of the glass being kind of "modern" in appearance.
Chair Rich asked if there were questions for staff. There were none.
Chair Rich asked how the adjacency of the tree to be retained in relation to the tree
proposed for removal ranks against their need to place a part of their structure at that
location.
Planner Stephen Rose replied that it helps to have more findings to support the
requested removal.
Chair Rich opened the Public Hearing for Agenda Item No. 1.
Campbell Planning Commission Minutes for June 12, 2018 Page 3
Mike Ma, Applicant and Project Architect:
• Thanked Planner Stephen Rose for his presentation of this project.
• Advised that he was available for any questions from the Commission as is the
property owner.
Jo-Ann Fairbanks, Resident on Hacienda Ave:
• Sought clarification and assurances that the tree to remain will be protected.
• Pointed out that improvements along Parr may be required in the future. What will
be done to make sure the remaining tree remains protected in the future?
Planner Stephen Rose:
• Replied that there is a requirement for tree protection fencing during construction.
• Added that tree protection is usually a part of the building plan review.
• Said that the Commission could choose to add a specific condition of approval.
Jo-Ann Fairbanks:
• Reiterated that there will be a requirement for street improvement installation along
Parr sometime in the future.
• Added it is important to make sure that there are requirements in place for the
protection of that tree.
Commissioner Hernandez asked if the public improvements would be installed by the
City.
Commissioner Rivlin replied that it would be done by the applicant (property owner).
Planner Stephen Rose said that whatever contractor is used to put in those public
improvements will come from an approved list and work would be overseen by the
Public Works Department.
Chair Rich said the Commission can further discuss additional assurances for the
protection of that remaining oak tree.
Planner Stephen Rose suggested it be a single condition that captures both points.
Chair Rich closed the Public Hearing for Agenda Item No. 1.
Commissioner Ching:
• Stated that the design looks great.
• Said he supports the proposal for extra care for the oak tree both during
construction and when future public improvements go in.
Commissioner Krey:
• Said that the proposed use of frosted windows for the garage was something he
had never seen before.
• Concluded that this looks like a very nice project.
Campbell Planning Commission Minutes for June 12, 2018 Page 4
Director Paul Kermoyan:
• Assured the Commission that the issue of tree protection is overseen by the City's
robust Tree Protection Ordinance.
• Suggested an added condition to the resolution stating, "During any work on the
site protective tree fencing shall be placed around the tree to the satisfaction of the
Community Development Director."
Chair Rich said he agrees with that recommendation.
Other Commissioners also indicated their support of that proposed language.
Motion: Upon motion of Commissioner Hernandez, seconded by
Commissioner Rivlin, the Planning Commission adopted
Resolution No. 4441 approving a Site and Architectural Review
Permit (PLN2018-61) to allow the construction of a new single-family
residence and a Tree Removal Permit (PLN2018-62) to allow the
removal of a protected tree (Oak) on property located at 1572 Theresa
Avenue, with an added Condition of Approval that states that before
any construction work on site tree protection fencing shall be
installed to the satisfaction of the Community Development Director,
by the following roll call vote:
AYES: Ching, Hernandez, Krey, Ostrowski, Rich and Rivlin
NOES: None
ABSENT: Dodd
ABSTAIN: None
Chair Rich advised that this action is final unless appealed in writing to the City Clerk
within 10 calendar days.
***
Chair Rich read Agenda Item No. 2 into the record as follows:
2. PLN2017-123 Public Hearing to consider the application of David Elliott for a
Conditional Use Permit with Site and Architectural Review
(PLN2017-123) to allow the conversion of an existing motor
vehicle repair and maintenance facility to a convenience market
with late night activities and beer and wine sales for off-site
consumption; and the addition of a hydrogen fueling facility
within an existing gasoline station on property located at 337 E.
Hamilton Avenue. Staff is recommending that this 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,
Planner.
Mr. Daniel Fama, Senior Planner, presented the staff report.
Campbell Planning Commission Minutes for June 12, 2018 Page 5
Commissioner Rivlin provided the Site and Architectural Review Committee report as
follows:
• Reported that SARC had a few comments.
• Said that he appreciated the elevation as it was reviewed by SARC. The color
scheme is not to stand out but rather to blend in.
• Advised that Commissioner Dodd (who participated in this SARC meeting) asked
for additional information on hydrogen vehicles. That additional information was
provided in the staff report.
• Said that SARC requested some of the new front elevation windows be adjusted to
match existing. That has been accommodated.
Commissioner Hernandez said that the revised elevation of the convenience store is
much better than the one seen at SARC.
Commissioner Krey asked if there are safeguards when converting a former car
maintenance building into a convenience store.
Planner Daniel Fama advised that a report was prepared to see if there is any
contamination of the property, which was provided by the applicant. There is nothing
of significance.
Commissioner Rivlin asked if the hydrogen fueling was replacing the previous propane
fueling.
Planner Daniel Fama advised that the propane would be relocated on site in its on
enclosure.
Commissioner Ching pointed out that per the site plan the transformer is located close
to the hydrogen enclosure. Is there any risk in that?
Planner Daniel Fama:
• Said he would defer that question to the applicant however he advised that a site
plan for a service station is subject to extensive State regulation.
• Advised that the other hydrogen fueling station previously approved on Winchester
Boulevard was required to have a HazMat evaluation of the entire site. That was
the case because hydrogen fueling was so new to this area at that time. County
Fire now has more experience with hydrogen.
Commissioner Ching asked about the note indicating the relocation of the self-serve
air and water station.
Planner Daniel Fama said he would defer that question to the applicant.
Chair Rich asked if the nearby senior facility is aware of the proposed hours.
Planner Daniel Fama said that the property owner was notified and no feedback was
received.
Campbell Planning Commission Minutes for June 12, 2018 Page 6
Chair Rich asked if the alternate color scheme reflects Chevron's corporate colors.
Planner Daniel Fama replied the alternate color is the blue.
Chair Rich asked about site circulation.
Planner Daniel Fama said that schematic shows an entrance from both Hamilton and
Central.
Chair Rich asked if there is enough space on site to accommodate the circulation.
Planner Daniel Fama:
• Replied that is a discussion point for the Commission.
• Pointed out that demand for hydrogen vehicles is less than electric vehicles at this
point.
Chair Rich asked about sufficient space to allow the large trucks required for the
delivery of fuel to the site.
Commissioner Hernandez suggested that the applicant could address this. She
advised that it was discussed at SARC.
Planner Daniel Fama said that because of an addition in 2012, a substantial amount of
dedication would have been required should this project have increased the building
any further than it has with this application. As such, the existing sidewalk like will
remain as it is.
Chair Rich opened the Public Hearing for Agenda Item No. 2.
David Elliott, Project Architect and Applicant:
• Introduced the project team: Mike Caseri, Station Owner; Kristy Kendall,
Consultant; and Dr. Shan Stephens, founder of Hydrogen Company.
• Stated his appreciation for working with Planner Daniel Fama.
• Said that the staff report shows this project has been worked through.
• Added they are okay with the conditions.
• Advised that the drainage has been worked out with Public Works.
• Reminded that this is the second time this convenience market aspect has been
through review. This new application is simple. The building is where it will
remain.
• Stated that in adding hydrogen, they are becoming a part of the new age for
automobiles.
Commissioner Ching asked about the relocation of the self-serve air and water station.
David Elliott said that in the new propane area, there is a place to pull in and park. It
will be similar to where it is now.
Campbell Planning Commission Minutes for June 12, 2018 Page 7
Commissioner Krey asked how the job of filling a car with hydrogen fuel is executed.
Is there any extra danger?
Dr. Shane Stephens:
• Assured that there is no difference in danger when compared to fueling gasoline.
• Advised that the hydrogen is dispensed via a locked pump since it is distributing air
rather than fluid.
• Said that the fueling process for hydrogen into a car takes about three to four
minutes.
• Stated that it is safer than gas in that hydrogen gas goes up into the air while a
gasoline spill lands on the ground.
• Reported that there is leak detection in a hydrogen fuel that automatically turns off
the pump in event of a leak.
• Added that this will be a very industrial strength installation. The restrictions are
very strict.
Chair Rich asked how many cars per month are anticipated for the hydrogen fuel
based on their other locations.
Dr. Shane Stephens:
• Said that 25 cars would be a "normal" day; 40 cars would be a "busy" day; and 60
cars per day would be the maximum anticipated. Their capacity for hydrogen car
fueling at this location would be 100 cars.
• Added that this is far less than that that goes to gas pumps.
• Concluded that this is aloes-volume station.
Commissioner Rivlin questioned the location of the hydrogen fueling station and
impact on the space measurements.
David Elliott advised that the orientation of the islands' canopy is slightly askew.
Kristy Kendall added that the angle is to allow more room to get in and come out. The
distance between hydrogen fueling to the gasoline fueling is 30 feet where 25 feet is
required.
Commissioner Rivlin asked if the hydrogen fuel storage on site is sufficient if they
should operate at maximum capacity.
David Elliott said that at maximum capacity they would need to refill their fueling
station more often. As often as every two days.
Chair Rich closed the Public Hearing for Agenda Item No. 2.
Commissioner Ching:
• Stated that this is a great idea. It is nice to see hydrogen fuel coming to Campbell.
• Advised that he has no issues regarding the use of the blue corporate color as
requested by the applicant. He is fine with the blue.
Campbell Planning Commission Minutes for June 12, 2018 Page 8
• Stated that use of blue may make it easier to recognize it's a fueling station.
Commissioner Krey said that the biggest problem might be if several hydrogen cars
were to come at the same time to fuel with hydrogen and thus cause a backup out
onto Hamilton Avenue. He pointed out there is another business further down
Hamilton where queuing for a carwash is ending up out on Hamilton.
Commissioner Hernandez:
• Said that SARC discussed site circulation a fair amount.
• Added that it didn't sound like it was going to be a problem.
Commissioner Ostrowski said that if this site is busy that's a good problem to have.
Planner Daniel Fama referenced Condition 7 that would deal with issues of queuing.
Commissioner Rivlin:
• Said that as to the issue of the revised color, he had really liked the rendering he
saw at SARC.
• Added that if the rest of the Commissioners feel the blue is acceptable he can live
with that as well.
Chair Rich said he was okay with the blue proposed.
Commissioner Ostrowski agreed.
Chair Rich said he likes the project over all. It is bringing something "cutting edge" into
Campbell. He thanked the applicant for that and asked for a motion.
Motion: Upon motion of Commissioner Hernandez, seconded by
Commissioner Ostrowski, the Planning Commission adopted
Resolution No. 4442 approving a Conditional Use Permit with Site
and Architectural Review (PLN2017-123) to allow the conversion of
an existing motor vehicle repair and maintenance facility to a
convenience market with late night activities and beer and wine
sales for off-site consumption; and the addition of a hydrogen
fueling facility within an existing gasoline station on property
located at 337 E. Hamilton Avenue, with the revised color scheme
requested by the applicant, by the following roll call vote:
AYES: Ching, Hernandez, Krey, Ostrowski, Rich and Rivlin
NOES: None
ABSENT: Dodd
ABSTAIN: None
Chair Rich advised that this action is final unless appealed in writing to the City Clerk
within 10 calendar days.
***
Campbell Planning Commission Minutes for June 12, 2018 Page 9
REPORT OF THE COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR
Director Paul Kermoyan made the following additional comments on his written report:
• Said that at the next meeting a Use Permit for Starbright School will be discussed.
• Advised that the school is currently operating outside of its conditions.
• Explained that this action is a result of a Code Enforcement process that started
with a soft warning notice that advised the school that they are operating outside of
the confines of their Conditional Use Permit and asking them to come in to discuss
their options.
• Said that the business instead has provided a lot of misinformation to the parents
of their students.
• Stated that staff has tried to contain it.
• Reported that staff was trying to let them know that they could not rent out their
theatre facility to outside uses especially when alcohol service is added.
• Admitted that bringing this revisit of the Use Permit comes as a "revocation"
hearing although there is no intention to revoke but rather to provide parents and
the operator to get the facts straight about what is allowed under their Use Permit.
• Said that this situation is a little unusual but will get accurate information on the
record.
Chair Rich said it will be just "hearing people out."
Commissioner Hernandez said it might make sense to shuffle the agenda.
Director Paul Kermoyan said staff would try to arrange the order based on anticipated
time required per item.
Commissioner Ching asked what is the output or options on the next step.
Directory Paul Kermoyan said that the output is clarity. The operator is saying one
thing and staff is saying another.
Commissioner Hernandez said that everything will be on the record and everyone can
be on the same page. Staff can explain process.
Director Paul Kermoyan said process will be set up in the staff report.
Campbell Planning Commission Minutes for June 12, 2018 Page 10
ADJOURNMENT
The Planning Commission meeting adjourned at 8:28 p.m. to the next Regular
Planning Commission Me ~ f June 26, 2018.
l j,
SUBMITTED BY:
rinne Shinn, Recording Secretary
APPROVED BY: ~~ L~~%~~~ ~`~"'~
Michael Rich, Chair
.~
1
ATTEST: ~
Paul Ke moyan, Secretary