PC Min 02/14/1989PLANNING COMMISSION
CITY OF CAMPBELL, CALIFORNIA
7:30 P.M. MINUTES FEBRUARY 14, 1989
The Planning Commission of the City of Campbell convened this day in regular
session in the City Hall Council Chambers, 70 N. First St., Campbell,
California.
ROLL CALL
Present Commissioners: George Kasolas, Jay Perrine,
Ronald Christ, Robert Stanton, James Walker,
DuWayne Dickson, and Chairman Bruce
Olszewski; Planning Director Steve Piasecki,
Principal Planner Phil Stafford, Engineering
Manager Bill Helms, City Attorney Bill
Seligmann, and Recording Secretary Linda
Dennis.
Absent None.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
M/S: Dickson, Walker -
COMMUNICATIONS
That the minutes of the Planning Commission
meeting of January 24, 1989 be approved with
the following correction: Pg. 8, vote on ZC
89-02 should read: Ayes - Kasolas, Christ,
Stanton, Walker, Dickson; Noes - Olszewski.
Motion tarred 6-0-0-1, with Commissioner
Perrine abstaining due to absence from the
meeting.
Communications received pertain to specific agenda items, and will be discussed
under that item.
ORAL REQUESTS
Chairman Olszewski invited anyone to address the Commission on issues not
agendized. There being no one, the Chairman proceeded with the set agenda.
SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS
City Manager
Report on the state of the City.
City Manager Kevin Duggan briefly reviewed the City's major goals for
1988-1989, and answered questions from the Commission regarding Route 85, the
Downtown Redevelopment Program, the Circulation Element, the Ainsely House
relocation, the Los Gatos Creek Trail, 900 E. Hamilton Ave. project, the
Community Center Master Plan, and consideration of the implementation of a
Citizen's Committee to work on Capital Improvement Programs.
-2-
Redevelopment Discussion of the Planning Commission's role
in reviewing Redevelopment Area Projects.
Planning Director Steve Piasecki reviewed the Staff Report of February 14,
1989.
Chairman Olszewski expressed the following concerns: What specific determining
factors are used to define actions of the Agency involving redevelopment plans,
specific plans, and other planning studies? In reference to the
Salmar/Harrison plan, what determined other projects and whether they will come
to the Commission as a "draft" or a formal application. In reference to the
Ainsley House and information being published in the newspaper before the
Commission had knowledge - how information sharing might be facilitated; and,
is the Redevelopment Agency obtaining the services of an Architectural Advisor.
Redevelopment Director Robert Kass explained that the Planning Commission's
role in redevelopment plans are set forth in the State Redevelopment Law and
the Planning Commission is required to make findings in accord with that law.
To date, there have been no amendments to the Redevelopment Plan. In 1983 the
Commission was involved in making findings that determined the Redevelopment
Plan to be in conformance with the General Plan. Regarding specific plans -
the plans are presented to the Commission in a draft form; and when the final
plan is prepared. It is brought to the Commission for approval. Private
development projects would proceed through the process in a normal development
manner. Those projects where there is involvement with the Agency (there have
been none so far) will go before the Agency to set the framework before they
come to the Commission. Regarding an Architectural Advisor, Mr. Kass indicated
that there has been one project on which the Agency asked a former Advisor for
a perspective. Redevelopment Agencies often have their own architect; however,
Campbell does not - so from time to time the Agency may have to bring in
someone to assist it.
City Manager Kevin Duggan discussed the Ainsley House issue, noting that there
has been no attempt at secret negotiations; that the Commission will definitely
be involved in the Planning issues facing the relocation of the house; and,
that negotiations thus far have involved whether or not the relocation is
feasible from a cost standpoint and from engineering standpoints.
Commissioner Perrine asked what the Agency is looking for when items are sent
to the Commission for review and comment.
Mr. Kass indicated that the Agency is looking for information pertaining to
land use and design issues.
Commissioner Dickson expressed concern with the process of discussion going on
with the community prior to coming to the Commission such as what has been
happening with residents regarding the SaLnar/Harrison plan. This action is
normally a Planning Commission/Department responsibility, and it is now being
done by Redevelopment Staff duplicating the process. Commissioner Dickson
continued that because Planning is not now doing the neighborhood hearings, the __
Commission is not getting the basic input of the community - this is
detrimental to the decision-making process. He also expressed concern with any
implications that hearings on the Ainsley House were kept secret, because there
is strength in open discussion.
-3-
Mr. Kass suggested that the Commission be sent the information on the community
meetings and that the Commissioners may wish to attend those meetings for
direct information. In the normal planning process, there is often a large
amount of public input prior to the issue being before the Commission.
Mr. Duggan added that the Salmar/Harrison plan had lengthy Staff discussion,
and the Council and Commission were exposed to the draft document prior to any
solicitation of public input. The proposed plan has not reached the public
hearing stage yet. Mr. Duggan continued that the Planning and Redevelopment
Staff work as a project team together; and, now with additional staff, it will
be possible to gather more information than previously. There has been no
attempt to have the Commission less involved - and it would certainly be
compatible to have the Commission involved in the initial stages.
Commissioner Kasolas recalled that when the acquisition of the high school was
under consideration, the matter was discussed with everyone and every
Commission prior to being put on the ballot. Now it appears that there is
little input, especially on Redevelopment-assisted projects. Commissioner
Kasolas noted that he would assume that any discussion of a traffic signal on
Campbell Ave. will be done under a public forum.
Mr. Duggan indicated that there cannot be private deals made, that everything
must be done with a public forum; however, there is a great deal of staff work
that goes on to bring a presentation to the public forum. Regarding the
Ainsley House, Mr. Duggan noted that over the next 4-5 months there will be
ample time for public input.
Commissioner Dickson commented that as this process continues, there will be
many questions - different plans coming before the Commission in different
ways - and confusion in the community. The City must be very careful with the
process making sure that people understand there are no deviant actions. More
redevelopment information is needed.
Mr. Piasecki noted that he would like to use the newly created "Report From The
Planning Director" to keep the Commission up to date.
M/S: Kasolas, Dickson - That this issue be continued to the Planning
Commission meeting of February 28, 1989, for
the purpose of comments or recommendations
that may be appropriate. Motion carried
unanimously (7-0-0).
CONSENT CALENDAR
.JC SY X
Planning Consultant Request of David Powers & Associates to be
considered for placement on the City of
Campbell's Planning Consultant List.
M/S: Perrine, Stanton - That the Planning Commission approve the
applicant's request to be considered as a
consultant for the preparation of
environmental documents. Motion carried
unanimously (7-0-0).
!~t 'X 7C
-4-
PUBLIC HEARINGS
M 88-20 Continued public hearing to consider the
Bonnett, R. application of Mr. Robert Bonnett for
approval of a modification to a previously
approved Planned Development Permit to allow
a revised parking plan on property known as
145 Dillon Avenue in a PD (Planned
Development/Industrial) Zoning District.
Planning Director Steve Piasecki reported that the applicant is requesting a
continuance to the meeting of February 28, 1989, in order that he might address
the Commission before a final vote. Mr. Piasecki noted that the rear buildings
are not located on foundations and it may not be possible for the applicant to
meet the conditions indicated. Staff has asked the applicant's attorney, Mr.
Eller, if he would be willing to explore opportunities for redesigning the site
or whether the cost for redesigning would be too prohibitive. Staff offers no
objections to a continuance.
Commissioner Christ suggested that the findings and conditions in the Staff
Report be changed to read as follows: Finding X13: The 7 on-site parking
spaces are considered inadequate, except as an interim use Finding ~~5: The
proposed interim development or uses clearly will result in a more desirable
environment and use of land than would be possible under any other zoning
classification. Condition 4I20: The development's interim existence shall be
allowed to exist in accordance with the proposed plans and specifications, as
red-lined and conditioned, only until February 1, 1991.
Chairman Olszewski opened the public hearing.
There being no one wishing to speak on this item at this time, the following
motion was made.
M/S: Perrine, Christ - That the public hearing on M 88-20 be
continued to the Planning Commission meeting
of February 28, 1989. Motion carried 6-1-0,
with Commission Stanton voting "no".
SC ~.
MISCELLANEOUS
M 89-01 The request of Mr. Fred Sahadi for approval
Sahadi, F. of an architectural change to modify the
porte cochere design for the Pruneyard Inn
located on property known as 1995 S. Bascom
Avenue in a C-2-S (General Commercial) Zoning
District.
Planning Director Steve Piasecki reviewed the Staff Report of February 14,
1989, noting that the presented plans indicate a metal raised structure with a --
horizontal banded element. Staff is not comfortable with the stucco wall
treatment and the Architectural Advisor concurs with Staff's recommendation
that other options be explored.
-5-
Commissioner Stanton reported that this item was considered by the Site &
Architectural Review Committee. The Committee is recommending approval as
redlined with the revised plans returning to the Planning Director for review.
Discussion ensued regarding the design; roof materials; the size of the
structure; the purpose of the porte cochere relative to drawing attention to
the entrance of the inn; and, the appearance of the rooftop from hotel windows.
Mr. Fred Sahadi, applicant, reviewed the plans and indicated that the
originally presented cover was not well developed and provided a much too busy
of an effect which added to the confusion of the design. The current plans
present a simplified porte cochere.
Commissioner Christ noted his concern that the rooftop on the porte cochere
could become a collection point for trash and dirt.
M/S: Stanton, Perrine - That the Planning Commission approve M 89-01
in concept and as redlined, with the details
of the roofing materials to come back to the
Planning Director and Architectural Advisor
for approval.. Motion carried unanimously
(7-0-0).
)C X 71
PUBLIC HEARINGS
UP 89-02 Public hearing to consider the application
George Tsagaris of George Tsagaris for approval of a Use
Permit to allow an on-sale beer & wine
license on property known as 2180 S. Bascom
Ave. in a C-2-S (General Commercial) Zoning
District.
Principal Planner Phil Stafford reviewed the Staff Report of February 14, 1989,
noting that Staff is recommending approval.
Chairman Olszewski opened the public hearing.
There was no one wishing to speak on this item.
M/S: Stanton, Perrine - That the public hearing on UP 89-02 be
closed. Motion carried unanimously (7-0-0).
M/S: Christ, Perrine - That the Planning Commission adopt Resolution
No. 2582, including findings and conditions
as indicated in the Staff Report of February
14, 1989, aprpoving UP 89-02. Motion carried
with the following roll call vote:
AYES: Commissioners: Kasalas, Perrine, Christ, Stanton, Walker,
Dickson, Olszewski
_ NOES: Commissioners: None
ABSENT: Commissioners: None.
* ~
-6-
MISCELLANEOUS
SA 89-04 Sign application of Mr. D. Guthridge for
Guthridge, D. approval of signage for an existing office
development located on property known as 307
Orchard City Drive in a PD (Planned
Development) Zoning District.
Principal Planner Phil Stafford reported that the applicant has requested a
continuance on this item in order to present revised plans.
M/S: Christ, Perrine - That SA 89-04 be continued to the Planning
Commission meeting of March 14, 1989, at the
applicant's request. Motion carried
unanimously (7-0-0).
,. ~• ~
Staff Report Review criteria regarding liquor licenses.
Principal Planner Phil Stafford reviewed the Staff Report of February 14,-1989.
Commissioner Kasolas noted that it was clear that some of the criteria used by
the Police Department for liquor licenses are planning issues; and, he hoped
that these criteria were being looked at strictly from a standpoint of
enforcement costs - not religious exclusion or land use issues. Additionally,
specific findings should be set forth from the Police Department if they are.
recommending denial. He asked if the City can deny an application if the State
has granted a liquor license.
Mr. Seligmann noted that someone is not supposed to be able to obtain a liquor
license until approval from the local jurisdiction.
Commissioner Christ noted that he was pleased with the criteria used and that
it appeared to be strictly from an enforcement standpoint.
Commissioner Dickson stated that he could not recall more than one instance
wherein the Police Department came back with a recommendation for denial; and,
he wasn't sure how the Police Department could really give the Commission the
kind of recommendation it is looking for. Additionally, the presence of the
Alcoholic Beverage Control has greatly diminished, and the community must be
careful in thinking that the ABC will take care of the situation. Commissioner
Dickson concluded that the use permit process is not working for these
situations, and that the issue should be discussed in a study session.
Commissioner Walker indicated that perhaps additional attention needs to be
given to these requests in areas where there is minimal retail and adjacent
residential - perhaps an overlay zone to protect the residential areas.
It was the consensus of the Commission that this report be noted & filed.
~~ ~ ~
-7-
Staff Report Application submittal requirements and review
procedures; Site & Architectural Review
Board's meeting schedule.
Planning Director Steve Piasecki reviewed the Staff Report of February 14,
1989.
Commissioner Dickson expressed concern about increasing costs to the developer
and to buyers; he felt that most of the presented plans are easily understood;
that the issue should be discussed at a study session; and, that the trend was
in the wrong direction.
Chairman Olszewski concurred with Commissioner Dickson relative to development
costs; however, he felt that the Commission needs appropriate information.
Chairman Olszewski felt that there are problems understanding relationships of
new projects with their surroundings; and, that it is important to note the
burden of additional costs to the Council. If the matter does go to Council,
he asked that the issue of "property line to property line" drawings be
specifically requested, as well as elevations which show elevator towers and
roof screening.
Commissioner Kasolas expressed concern with the costs involved, noting that the
issue will become one where costs are cut; and although he agreed that better
information helps to make a better decision, he felt that the system of relying
on Staff and the Architectural Advisor has worked well.
Commissioner Christ asked what other cities require. Regarding the provision
of reduced plans for the agenda packets, Commissioner Christ felt that it was
the individual Commissioner's responsibility to arrive early to review plans in
the chambers or at the office. He concurred with the additional illustration,
but did not see a need to include plans in the packets unless the project is
extensive. Additionally, if renderings are provided, they should be accurate
and to scale.
Commissioner Walker concurred with Commissioner Christ, noting that
relationship drawings may just be necessary in cases where the proposal is not
harmonious with the surroundings.
Chairman Olszewski felt that copies of plans should be included with the
packets because that gives the Commission extra time to look at the projects.
The costs involved could be offset by the avoidance of negative impacts.
Commissioner Perrine indicated that he did not need to see every plan in a
reduced format - perhaps only the major proposals.
Mr. Piasecki noted that requiring reduced drawings would not be that expensive
to the developer and that he would encourage this requirement.
M/S: Perrine, Christ That the Planning Commission, by minute
action, recommend to the City Council that
the application submittal requirements be
expanded to include the following:
-8-
AYES: Commissioners:
NOES: Commissioners:
ABSENT: Commissioners:
All development proposals (except site
approvals for one home) shall provide the
following exhibits:
1. Architectural illustrations/renderings
providing the following:
A. Eye-level, oblique-angle view of
the building/site.
B. Illustrate immediately adjacent
structures.
C. Accurately depict relative
scale/height of proposed building
compared to surrounding buildings.
2. Expand the architectural elevations (2
dimensional drawings) to include
side-to-side and front-to-rear property
lines giving site cross-sections.
3. Incorporate roof equipment screening and
elevator towers into exhibits.
4. Provide reductions of plan sets in
11"x17" format for distribution to~City
Council, Planning Commission, and Site &
Architectural Review Committee with the
Staff Report.
5. Staff to develop wording showing
leniency on the .Commission's part,
indicating preference for accuracy and
detail.
Motion carried with the following roll call
vote:
Perrine, Christ, Walker, Olszewski
Kasolas, Stanton, Dickson
None.
~c
SUBCOMMITTEE REPORTS
There were no Subcommittee Reports.
REPORT OF THE PLANNING DIRECTOR
The Commission scheduled a Study Session for Thursday, February 23, 1989, at
6:00 p.m. The Commission was asked to prioritize the list of topics and
transmit that information to Staff.
ADJOURNMENT
ATTEST: Steve Piasecki
Secretary
RECORDED: Linda Dennis
Recording Secretary
There being no further business, the meeting
was adjourned at 10:25 p.m.
APPROVED: Bruce Olszewski
Chairman