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PC Min 08/22/2000CITY OF CAMPBELL PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES 7:30 P.M. TUESDAY AUGUST 22, 2000 CITY HALL COUNCIL CHAMBERS The Planning Commission meeting of August 22, 2000, was called to order at 7:30 p.m., in the Council Chambers, 70 North First Street, Campbell, California by Chairperson Gibbons, and the following proceedings were had, to wit: ROLL CALL Commissioners Present: Chair: Vice Chair: Commissioner: Commissioner: Commissioner: Commissioner: Commissioner: Elizabeth Gibbons Mel Lindstrom Tom Francois Joseph D. Hemandez Brad Jones Susan A. Keams Dennis Lowe Commissioners Absent: None Staff Present: Community Development Director: Associate Planner: RDA Coordinator: City Attorney: Reporting Secretary: Sharon Fierro Tim J. Haley Geoff Bradley William Seligmann Corinne A. Shinn APPROVAL OF MINUTES Motion: On motion of Commissioner Lowe, seconded by Commissioner Kearns, the Planning Commission minutes of July 25, 2000, were approved. (5-0- 0-2; Chair Gibbons and Commissioner Hernandez abstained as they were absent from the July 25, 2000, meeting.) Planning Commission Minutes of August 22, 2000 Page 2 COMMUNICATIONS. 1. Information from the Cities Association regarding future workshops. 2. Letter from applicant regarding Agenda Item No. 1. AGENDA MODIFICATIONS OR POSTPONEMENTS There were no modifications or postponements. ORAL REQUESTS There were no oral requests. PUBLIC HEARING Chairperson Gibbons read Agenda Item No. 1 into the record. PLN2000-86 PLN2000-108 Kirkorian, J. Public Heating to consider the application of Mr. John Kirkorian, on behalf of Kirkorian Development, for approval of a Site and Architectural Application (PLN2000-86) to allow construction of a 29,300 square foot, two-story office/retail building and retail pad at Kirkwood Plaza Shopping Center and a Tree Removal Permit (PLN2000-108) to remove several trees from the Campbell Avenue parking lot area on property located at 1570-1600 W. Campbell Avenue in a C-1-S (Neighborhood Commercial) Zoning District. A Negative Declaration is proposed for this project. Planning Commission decision final, unless appealed in writing to the City Clerk within 10 days. Mr. Tim J. Haley, Associate Planner, presented the staff report as follows: · Advised that the applicants are seeking a Site and Architectural Approval to allow the construction of a new office/retail building at the Kirkwood Plaza Shopping Center, the establishment of a new retail pad and the removal of several trees from the parking lot. The center has undergone a number of remodels over the years. · The new building, to be located in the area where the former Kirkwood Hardware and Joann's Fabrics businesses once stood, will include ground floor retail and second floor office space. · The architecture will feature elements from the existing shopping center, which will compliment rather than match exactly. · The proposed pad is 14,000 square feet and will house a future retail building. · Advised that the applicant has submitted parking information which indicates that the proposed provided parking will adequately serve the center due to differing demands and shared parking concepts. · Stated that staff is comfortable with the parking percentages and rationale provided. · Recommended that the Commission adopt a resolution approving a Site and Architectural Application and Tree Removal Permit. · Added that any trees removed will be replaced someone on the site. Planning Commission Minutes of August 22, 2000 Page 3 Stated that this proposal is consistent with the C-1 (Neighborhood Commercial) Zoning District. Commissioner Lowe asked what the advantage is in obtaining approval for the pad without a specific building in mind. Mr. Tim J. Haley advised that this establishes a footprint area and that the applicants are in discussion with Walgreen's to place a store there. Commissioner Lowe expressed concern that the pad will limit options. Mr. Tim J. Haley agreed that the pre-approved pad will restrict them. Commissioner Hemandez asked for the rationale for the parking ratio. Mr. Tim J. Haley answered that the concepts of shared parking and differing uses are concepts used in evaluating other shopping centers. Commissioner Hemandez asked if there are any established ratios for shopping centers. Mr. Tim J. Haley replied that there were no established parking ratios for shopping centers. Added that the proposed parking is at the high end of the range of acceptable parking per the Traffic Engineer's evaluation. Some parking is lost with this project. Commissioner Lowe expressed concern about the parking at this center, saying that there might be a problem. Chairperson Gibbons added that there is an increase of 5,000 square feet of space, since 39,000 square feet was demolished and 44,000 square feet of new building area is proposed. Office use will represent 15,000 square feet. Tim J. Haley added that parking demand for office use is less than retail. Chairperson Gibbons asked when this project is to be built. Mr. Tim J. Haley advised that the applicants want to build as soon as is possible. Added that consideration of the architectural approval for the pad would come before the Commission in the next six months. Chairperson Gibbons clarified that there are no signs proposed at this time. Commissioner Lowe stated that the retail pad will compound the parking demand. Planning Commission Minutes of August 22, 2000 Page 4 Chairperson Gibbons stated that the building on this pad is a single story building. Mr. Tim J. Haley clarified that the pad is for retail use and a single story building. Commissioner Lowe suggested adding a caveat to the approval to limit the pad to one story. Chairperson Gibbons brought up the parking statistics for the site, saying that once the project is completed, there will be a 235 space deficit in parking. Commissioner Lowe asked how many parking spaces will be compact versus standard sized. Mr. Tim J. Haley advised that he did not have that information but that perpendicular parking is proposed for the lot. Commissioner Lowe asked if the City's Traffic Engineer has reviewed the parking for the site. Mr. Tim J. Haley advised that the Traffic Engineer has reviewed the parking and found the rationale for the parking to be legitimate. Deficit ratios of 10 to 30 percent are acceptable and this project is at the high level at 27%. Chairperson Gibbons asked if signs could be posted that designate parking for specific uses. Mr. Tim J. Haley suggested that the applicant could address this idea. Commissioner Mel Lindstrom presented the Site and Architectural Review Committee report as follows: · SARC was supportive of this project. Chairperson Gibbons opened the Public Hearing for Agenda Item No. 1. Mr. Kent Kirkorian, Applicant, 1630 W. Campbell Avenue: · Provided a history of his family's ownership of the Kirkwood Plaza, stating that this is a third generation business. · Said that they are proud to be in Campbell and proud of their center. · Advised that they did not previously own the Hardware site but recently purchased it, for a lot of money, to prevent the proposed tenant, Smart & Final, from competing with the existing Nob Hill Foods. · Added that his company offices are located at the center and they have no trouble parking. · Said that they have a letter of intent from Walgreens to place a store at this center. · Stated that he does not see parking as an issue for the expanded center. Planning Commission Minutes of August 22, 2000 Page 5 Mr. Roger Hagman, Architect, 1560 Laurel, San Carlos: · Stated that he is the project architect and is available for any questions. · Said that they have designed a building that fits into the center, utilizing elements already there. · Added that any removed trees will be replaced. Jin Sun, 107 John Kirk Court, Campbell: · Expressed concerns about the potential noise impacts on adjacent residential uses. · Advised that there are on-going problems with the trash compactor already in use by Nob Hill. Commissioner Keams asked Mr. Jin Sun if he has a business in the area. Mr. Jin Sun replied that he lives about 20 feet from the shopping center. Commissioner Lowe asked what times the trash compactor is utilized. Mr. Jin Sun answered that the compactor is used all day but not at night. Mr. Kent Kirkorian: · Advised that the Hardware store had a compactor. · Added that the building is 50 feet from the property line and that the proposed Walgreens is even further from John Kirk Court. · Said that there is a high masonry wall separating the apartments from the center but that it does not extend to John Kirk Court because the Fire Department wanted access at that location. Chairperson Gibbons advised that there is a loading dock depicted on the plans. Chairperson Gibbons closed the Public Heating for Agenda Item No. 1. Commissioner Lowe asked for clarification on the parking provided with this project. Mr. Tim J. Haley advised that there are 166 spaces over three legal parcels, including an L- shaped parcel that surrounds the comer Shell station parcel and an adjacent rectangular parcel. Commissioner Jones asked if each parcel could be sold individually. Mr. Tim J. Haley replied that each parcel can be sold but that easements exist. The Kirkorians own all but the rectangular parcel for which they now have a long term lease. Commissioner Lowe asked what the overall deficit is for these two parcels. Planning Commission Minutes of August 22, 2000 Page 6 Mr. Tim J. Haley answered there is a 59 space deficit over these two parcels totaling 26%. Commissioner Lowe sought clarification that the parking information is from the applicant and not from staff. Ms. Sharon Fierro replied that the applicant provided the information but that staff has reviewed the data and concurs with the evaluation of the parking provisions. Commissioner Lindstrom added that the Commission should consider all the parking available for the center and not just these parcels. Commissioner Lowe advised that people like to be able to park close to their destination. Commissioner Jones stated that at the present, the center is short 130 spaces. With this addition, the center will now be 235 parking spaces short. Asked if the project can afford to lose an additional 100 spaces. Chairperson Gibbons mentioned another shared use project (housing a Walgreens, Kinko's, medical offices and a Charles Schwab office) located at Winchester and Hamilton Avenues. Asked how that project's parking is working at that location. Mr. Tim J. Haley advised that staff has not been hearing of any problems. Commissioner Francois: · Stated that he has patronized this center for the last 38 years and has never experienced a parking problem. · Said that Avery's hours are from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. while Nob Hill's peek hours are in the late afternoons through early evening. · Said that this is a beautiful project which he supports heartily. · Added that during the holidays, parking will be a problem but that occurs everywhere during that time of year. Commissioner Keams concurred with Commissioner Francois, stating that shared parking works well. Stated her support for this project. Commissioner Lindstrom stated that he supports approval of this project. Commissioner Jones advised that he will not support this project as the parking deficit is too large. Commissioner Hemandez: · Stated that he likes the project, finding it a nice addition to Campbell. Planning Commission Minutes of August 22, 2000 Page 7 · Added that the new businesses will bring more traffic volume to the area with fewer parking spaces available. · Suggested working with the applicant to increase parking. · Stated that he will not support approval this evening. Commissioner Lowe: · Stated that he likes mixed-use projects. · Suggested tabling this item to the next meeting to allow the Traffic Engineer to attend. · Stated that he will not support this application. Chairperson Gibbons: · Stated that she is supportive of the Kirkorians and their site, saying that the center is well maintained and they are well respected. · Said that the center is a wonderful asset and is important to our community. · Advised that the information provided on traffic is problematic. Ms. Sharon Fierro: · Stated that the City's Traffic Engineer has reviewed the traffic information and supports it. Commissioner Hemandez asked if the Traffic Engineer look at the proposed uses. Ms. Sharon Fierro stated that he did consider the proposed uses. Motion: Upon motion of Commissioner Kearns, seconded by Commissioner Francois, the Planning Commission adopted Resolution No. 3290 approving a Site and Architectural Application (PLN2000-86) to allow construction of a 29,300 square foot, two-story office/retail building and retail pad at Kirkwood Plaza Shopping Center and a Tree Removal Permit (PLN2000-108) to remove 17 trees from the Campbell Avenue parking lot area, on property located at 1570-1600 W. Campbell Avenue, by the following roll call vote: AYES: Francois, Kearns, Lindstrom, Gibbons NOES: Hernandez, Jones, Lowe ABSENT: None ABSTAIN: None Chairperson Gibbons advised that this decision is final in 10 days unless appealed in writing to the City Clerk. Chairperson Gibbons read Agenda Item No. 2 into the record. Planning Commission Minutes of August 22, 2000 Page 8 PLN2000-88/ PLN2000-109 Bragg, D. Public Hearing to consider the application of Mr. Don Bragg, on behalf of Prometheus Real Estate Group, for approval of a Planned Development Permit (PLN2000-88) to allow the construction of a 170,000 square foot office building (5 stories), a 210 room hotel (8 stories) and two related parking structures and a Tree Removal Permit (PLN2000-109) to remove approximately 50 trees on property located at 649 Creekside Way in a P-D (Planned Development/Commercial and Public/Semi Public) Zoning District. A Mitigated Negative Declaration has been prepared for this project. Tentative City Council Meeting Date: September 19, 2000. Ms. Sharon Fierro, Community Development Director, presented the staff report as follows: · Stated that the applicants and staff request a continuance to the September 12, 2000, Commission meeting as the final details are not complete. Commissioner Lowe asked that a better map be provided in the future. Ms. Sharon Fierro promised to provide a more detailed map with the report. Chairperson Gibbons opened the Public Heating for Agenda Item No. 2. Motion: Upon motion of Commissioner Lowe, seconded by Commissioner Lindstrom, the Planning Commission continued consideration of a Planned Development Permit (PLN2000-88) to allow the construction of a 170,000 square foot office building (5 stories), a 210 room hotel (8 stories) and two related parking structures and a Tree Removal Permit (PLN2000-109) to remove approximately 50 trees on property located at 649 Creekside Way, to the Planning Commission meeting of September 12, 2000, by the following roll call vote: AYES: Francois, Gibbons, Hernandez, Jones, Kearns, Lindstrom, Lowe NOES: None ABSENT: None ABSTAIN: None Chairperson Gibbons read Agenda Item No. 3 into the record. Planning Commission Minutes of August 22, 2000 Page 9 PLN2000-106 Redevelopment Agency Public Hearing to consider the application of the Redevelopment Agency, on behalf of Mr. Xavier Sanchez, for approval of a Conditional Use Permit (PLN2000-106) to allow the use of two parcels for a temporary parking lot in Downtown Campbell on properties located at 345 E. Campbell Avenue and 39 IN. Central Avenue in a C-3-S (Central Business District) Zoning District. This project is Categorically Exempt. Planning Commission decision final, unless appealed in writing to the City Clerk within 10 days. Mr. Geoff Bradley, Redevelopment Coordinator, presented the staff report as follows: · Advised that the property is seeking a Use Permit to allow public parking on a vacant parcel in the Downtown. · Stated that 26 spaces will be provided on a gravel surface with appropriate signage and fencing. · Said that this temporary lot would be in use for approximately 18 to 24 months, until the completion of the Downtown Parking Structure, which will provide permanent parking. Commissioner Francois commended Mr. GeoffBradley and the property owner, Xavier Sanchez, for his generosity in making his property available for this parking use. Added that this parking will really help the Downtown. Chairperson Gibbons suggested two six-month renewal periods at the discretion of the Community Development Director. Mr. Geoff Bradley said that if the Commission was willing, staff was happy to have that flexibility. Commissioner Jones sought clarification that this application is to "add parking here." Commissioner Lowe clarified that the lot would include gravel. Mr. Geoff Bradley replied that gravel base with chip seal on top would be installed to allow water to percolate without the lot becoming muddy. Commissioner Lowe exclaimed that this is an excellent idea. Commissioner Francois provided the Site and Architectural Review Committee report as follows: · Stated that SARC supported this request. Chairperson Gibbons opened the Public Heating for Agenda Item No. 3. Planning Commission Minutes of August 22, 2000 Page 10 Mr. Xavier Sanchez, 1862 Shulman Avenue, San Jose: · Advised that he is a retired San Jose Fire Captain who has owned this property for a long time and has spent the last 20 years in Downtown Campbell. · Said that he is enjoying the reawakening of the Downtown with people strolling and enjoying the outdoor cafes, things that cannot be done in a mall. · Added that in the spirit of cooperation, he is allowing the use of his property. Chairperson Gibbons closed the Public Heating for Agenda Item No. 3. Motion: Upon motion of Commissioner Francois, seconded by Commissioner Kearns, the Planning Commission adopted Resolution No. 3291 approving a Conditional Use Permit (PLN2000-106) to allow the use of two parcels for a temporary parking lot in Downtown Campbell on properties located at 345 E. Campbell Avenue and 39 N. Central Avenue, by the following roll call vote: AYES: Francois, Gibbons, Hernandez, Jones, Kearns, Lindstrom, Lowe NOES: None ABSENT: None ABSTAIN: None Chairperson Gibbons advised that this decision is final in 10 days, unless appealed in writing to the City Clerk. REPORT OF THE COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR The written report of Ms. Sharon Fierro, Community Development Director, was accepted as presented, with the added comments: · Advised that the next Commission agenda (September 12, 2000) will include nine items and the meeting following that (September 26, 2000) will be devoted to review of the General Plan. · Provided an overview of the process for the General Plan Update and the schedule for the pending review by the Boards, Commissions and Council. · ~. The General Plan Update has been underway for the last 10 years. · :. The City received a letter from the State Attorney General's office stating that the City's General Plan is out of date. · :. The Task Force was appointed by Council and has had many meetings. · :. Existing policies will be incorporated into the General Plan and broad goals identified. · :. Advised that the General Plan is a policy document and does not itself implement anything. Planning Commission Minutes of August 22, 2000 Page 11 Added that State Law requires a General Plan which is a City's "Constitution." General Plan must include seven specific elements. The Said that a Council Study Session will be held on September 5, 2000, at which the Planning Commissioners will be invited to attend. The various City Boards and Commissions will review the draft from September 14th through October 4th. The Planning Commission Public Hearing will take place on October l0th and Council will consider the adoption of the revised General Plan on November 6th. Chairperson Gibbons extended admiration and appreciation to the Director and staff for their work with the General Plan Task Force. ADJOURNMENT The Planning Commission meeting adjourned at 8:57 p.m. to the Planning Commission meeting of September 12, 2000, in the Council Chambers, City Hall, 70 North First Street, Campbell, California. SUBMITTED BY: APPROVED BY: ATTEST: Corinne A. Shinn, Recording Secretary Sharon Fierro, Secretary