PC Min 05/12/1987PLANNING COMMISSION
CITY OF CAMPBELL, CALIFORNIA
7:30 PM MINUTES MAY 12, 1987
The Planning Commission of the City of Campbell convened this day in
regular session at the regular meeting place, the Council Chambers of City
Hall, 70 N. First St., Campbell, California.
ROLL CALL
Present Commissioners: Stanton, Olszewski,
Christ, walker, Perrine= Planning
Director A. A. Kee, Principal Planner
Phil Stafford, Engineering Manager Bill
Helms, City Attorney Bill Selfgmann,
Recording Secretary Linda Dennis.
Absent Kasolas, Dickson.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
N1/S: Christ, Stanton - That the Planning Commission minutes of
the meeting of April 28, 1987 be
approved as submitted. Motion carried
unanimously (5-0-2).
COMMUNICATIONS
Mr. Kee noted that communications received pertained to specific items on
the agenda and would be discussed at that time.
ORAL REQUESTS
Chairman Perrine asked if there was anyone in the audience who wished to
address the Commission on an issue that was not on the agenda. There
being no one, the Chairman proceeded with the aet agenda.
: • :
PUBLIC HEARINGS
UP 87-09 Continued public hearing to consider the
Giancola, M. application of Mr. Mike Giancola for
approval of a Use Permit to allow the
construction of an additional living
unit and detached garage on property
known as 1287 Munro Ave. in an A-1-9
(Single Family Residential - 9,000
sq.ft. minimum lot size) Zoning
District.
Commissioner Christ reported that this application was considered by the
Site and Architectural Review Committee. The Committee is recommending
approval, based on the changes made by the applicant which address
previously expressed concerns.
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Planning Director Kee stated that Staff is recommending that the Planning
Commission adopt a resolution, incorporating findings and conditions as
indicated in the Staff Report, approving this application.
Chairman Perrine opened the public heating and invited anyone in the
audience to speak for or against this item.
Mr. Bob Schneider, property owner, appeared to answer questions.
M/S: Christ, Olszewski - That the public hearing on OP 87-09 be
closed. Motion carried unanimously
(5-0-2).
M/S: Christ, Walker - That the Planning Commission adopt
Resolution No. 2457, incorporating.
findings and conditions of approval as
indicated in the Staff Report dated May
` 12, 1987, approving OP 87-09. Motion
carried with the following roll call
vote:
AYES: Commissioners: Stanton, Olszewaki, Christ, Walker, Perrine
NOES: Commissioners: None
ABSENT: Commissioners: Kasolas, Dickson.
• • •
M!9 87-OS Public hearing to consider the
Voshall, F. application of Frank i Patricia Voshall
for a modification to a planned
development to allow a zero lot line
second-story addition to a single family
home on property known as 609 Lisa Way
in a PD (Planned. Development/Medium
Density Residential) Zoning District.
Commissioner Christ reported that this application was considered by the
Site and Architectural Review Committee. The Committee is recommending
approval.
Planning Director Kee noted communications from Mr. Ken C. Moore and Mr.
John Frenzel (attached hereto). The design was reviewed by the
Architectural Advisor, who was of the opinion that the design of this
proposal was acceptable. As a result of this design review, Staff is also
recommending approval.
Commissioner Olszewski asked if Staff was still of the opinion, as
indicated in Para. 4 of Staff Report, that the proposed addition has the
potential to be detrimental.
Mt. Kee responded that Staff is still of that opinionf however, it was
pointed out at the Site and Architectural Review Committee meeting that
there are other structures in the area with roof pitches similar to the
one proposed. The Architectural Advisor was of the opinion that it could
be designed to not be detrimental to the area.
-3-
Commissioner Walker noted that photos were presented that provide. evidence
that the addition would fit into the neighborhood. The applicant also
stated that he did have the support of three neighbors, .but had not gotten
_ written statements from them.
Chairman Perrino opened the public hearing and invited anyone in the
audience to speak. for or against this item.
Mr. Voshall presented letters from adjacent property owners (attached
hereto) in support of his proposal. Mr. Voshall disagreed with a
statement made in Mr. Moore's letter, and noted that property values are
holding in the area.
Mr. Ford, 619 Lisa way, expressed concern about second story additions in
the development limiting sunlight for other units.
Mr. Gene Steiger, owner of 613 Lisa Way, spoke against the proposal,
citing possible loss of sunlight= loss of privacyr increase in square
footage resulting in increased population= lack of parking space within
the development= and destroying the existing beauty of the development.
hr. Voshall felt that each application should be considered on a
case-by-case basis= his addition will not cause any loss of sunlight or
privacy to the adjacent unit= most of problems with parking are caused by
renters in the development, and people not using their garages.
Commissioner Stanton noted that the applicant may wish to continue this
matter, in that there is not a full Commission.
Commissioner Christ noted that the Site Committee looked at the blank wall
and how the addition might affect the adjacent property owner, as well as
possible changes to the roof line. The architectural Advisor was of the
opinion that it could not be modified because it would no longer be
architectural compatible. The way to preserve the architectural
compatibility is with the presented design. Because there are no windows
on the side that will be shadowed, light will. not be impacted for the
adjacent property.. Eowever, a continuance may help answer the neighbors
concerns, and give them the .opportunity to review the plans. Commissioner
Christ continued that he could not support a continuance on the basis that
we may receive further information or that the proposal will adversely
impact the. development.
Commissioner Walker indicated that the Site Committee also discussed the
setting of a precedent= however, compatibility would be addressed under
the PD zoning.
Mr. Xee noted that if the Commission chooses to approve this application,
it .does not automatically approve any future proposals.
Commissioner Christ expressed a concern with fairness, since this would be
setting a precedent. Second story additions would impact owners on the
other side of the street, if and when they are proposed.
-4-
Mr. Voshall requested that a decision be made this evening. He noted that
the two complaints, out of 43 units, were from owners of rental units=
and, the four immediate neighbors-have expressed their support.
M/S: Olszewski, Walker -
That the public hearing on MM 87-05 be
closed. Motion carried unanimously
(5-0-2).
M/S: Olszewski, Stanton -
Discussion
That the Planning Commission adopt the
following findings, and deny MM 87-05.
(1) Zero lot line-homes represent an
intense land use and require a
particular balance of population and
harmony. (2) More intensive
development would send a negative signal
to the neighborhood and upset the
architectural balance.
Commissioner Olszewski stated that a great deal of attention is given to
the design of these types of developments, and that he was of the opinion
that such an addition would detract from that intended design, as well as
impact the intensity of the neighborhood.
Commissioner Stanton spoke in favor of the motion, noting that the
intentional design of the project should not be altered.
Commissioner walker spoke against the motion, noting that the homes are
(deal starter homes and the owners should have the privilege of upgrading
them= the roof lines are already broken up throughout the development=
and, the homeowner is showing pride in the development by making the
choice to upgrade rather than move.
• r.
Commissioner Christ supported the motion, even though he was in agreement
with the architectural design factors. Commissioner Christ noted that he
would like to see the matter continued because `he felt the concerns of the
neighbors could be resolved and he would like to attempt to work the,
problems out= and that he could not vote in favor of the project at this
time even though the applicant is requesting a decision.
Chairman Perrine noted that although he is in agreement with all the
points made during this discussion, he considers the Architectural
Advisors opinion that the design is workable to be a deciding factor,
therefore, he will be voting against the motion. Chairman Perrine noted
that he is still troubled by what could happen on the other side of the
street.
Vote on motion for denial
AYES: Commissioners: Stanton, Olszewaki, Christ
NOES: Commissioners: Walker, Perrine
ASSENT: Commissioners: Kasolas, Dickson.
Mr. 1Cee reviewed the appeal procedure for the applicant.
: s •
-5-
S 87-02 Public hearing to consider the
Shepardsen, 8. application of Mr. Bob Shepardsen for a
site and architectural approval~to allow
the construction of an addition to an
office building on property known as 137
E. Hamilton Ave. in a C-1-S
(Neighborhood Commercial) Zoning
District.
Commissioner Christ reported that this application was considered by the
Site and Architectural Review Committee. The Committee is recommending
approval, subject to redlining of the presented plans. The redlining
indicates the retention of three existing redwood trees. It is the
opinion of the Site Committee that it is more important to retain the
landscaping, than it is to have the additional parking spaces; however,
the Committee is recommending an additional condition to cover potential
problems with parking.
Planning Director Ree reviewed the Staff Report, and noted that Staff is
also recommending approval.
Chairman Perrine opened the public hearing and invited anyone in the
audience to speak for or against this item.
Mr. David Smith, architect, requested the opportunity to look at retaining
the wooden fence on the rear property lines however, he indicated his
client's willingness to work with Staff to address the redlining on the
plans.
Mr. Kee noted that the plans stipulate a masonry fence. The applicant may
wish to obtain approvals for a building permits, and then submit revised
plans requesting the change in fencing materials if he so desires.
Wis.'°Joyce Cunningham, 1491 De Tracey Ct., questioned the height of the
proposed addition.
Mr. Smith explained that the existing building is two story, and the
addition will just extend that second story towards the rear property
line.
M/S: Olszewski, Stanton - That the public hearing on S 87-02 be
closed. Motion carried unanimously
(5-0-2).
M/S: Olszewski, Stanton - That the Planning Commission adopt the
findings presented in the. Staff Report,
dated May 12 ,1987, and approve S 87-02
subject to conditions as indicated in
the Staff Report (an8 attached hereto),
with the addition of Condition t15 which
reads •If, in the future, the Planning
Commission finds that a parking problem
-6-
exists at this site, the applicant or
subsequent property owner shall submit a
revised parking plan providing
additional parking by either the
reduction in on-site landscape or the
provision of additional compact parking
stalls. Motion carried with the
following roll call vote:
AYES: Commissioners: Stanton, Olszewski, Christ, Walker, Perrine
NOES: Commissioners: None
ABSENT: Commissioners: lcasolas, Dickson.
• :
ZC 87-02 Continued public hearing to consider the
Anderson, R. application of Mr. Rurt Anderson for a
zone change from R-M-S (Multiple Pamily
Residential) to PD (Planned Development/
Low-Medium Density Residential)t and,
the approval of plans, elevations, and
development schedule to allow the
construction of 3 townhomes on property.
known as 235 N. Third St.
Commissioner Christ reported that this application was considered by the
Site and Architectural Review Committee. The Committee is recommending
approval as redlined. Redlining indicates a change in the fence height
approaching the street and fence around Onit C, providing for construction
characteristics compatible with a street frontage.
Planning. Director Eee reviewed the Staff Report dated May 12, 1987, noting
that Staff is recommending approval.
..
Commissioner Olszewski asked Engineering Manager Helms about the traffic
circulation from this particular development.
Mr. Helms indicated that Public Works Staff would have preferred to see an
on-site turnaround at this location, and this issue has been discussed at
length. The driveway has been moved to the southerly portion of the
property, satisfying one of the concerns expressed by Staff. Regarding
the other concerns, it is simply a matter of advising the developer what
types of things may occur with this type of street and traffic patterns.
Chairman Perrine opened the public hearing and invited anyone in the
audience to speak for or against this item.
Mr. Kurt Anderson, applicant, reviewed the presented plans. Mr. Anderson
noted that his design team was~of the opinion that to provide on-site
circulation, as requested by Public works, would result in a great loss of
landscaping and be a real detriment to the project. -.
I
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M/S: Stanton, Olszewski - That the public hearing on ZC 87-02 be
closed. Motion carried unanimously
(5-0-2).
M/S; Walker, Olszewski - ..That the Planning Commission recommend
that the City Council accept the
Negative Declaration which has been
prepared for this projects and, that the
Planning Commission adopt Resolution
Nos. 2456 & 2459, incorporating findings
and indicated in the Staff Report of May
12, 1987, recommending that the City
Council approve the requested zone
change from R-M-S to PD and approving
the plans, elevations, and development
schedule subject to conditions indicated
in the Staff Report of May 12, 1987.
!lotion carried with the following roll
call vote:
AYES: Commissioners: Stanton, Olszewski, Christ, Walker, Prrine
NOES: Commissioners: None
ABSENT: Commissioners: Rasolas, Dickson.
:: t
The Commissioner recessed at 9:00 p.m.; the meeting reconvened at 9:15
p.m.
:: •
MISCELLANEOUS
SA 87-15 Continued Signing request - 250 Hacienda
Southbay Dev. Ave. - Hacienda Business Center - CM
(Controlled Manufacturing) Zoning
District.
Commissioner Christ reported that this application was considered by the
Site and Architectural Review Committee. The Committee felt that all the
proposed signing, except one monument sign (A3), was appropriate for a
development of this size; therefore, the Committee is coming to the
Commission with a recommendation for approval of all signing, except the
monument sign referred to as A3.
Planning Director Ree reported that Staff is recommending approval of the
presented signing plan, as redlined.
Commissioner Christ noted that the redlining indicates the provision of
the center's name incorporated on the base of all the monument signs; and,
- a change in the size of one of the monument signs to make it more
consistent with the other signs in the development.
-8-
Mr. Dick Merwin, Southbay Construction Co., requested that the name of the
center be left open, since it has not be decided if 8acienda Business -
Center will be the final name; Southbay is in agreement to put the
center's name on the base of the monument signs; and, the suggestion to
put the address at the base of the signs is also a good suggestion. Mr.
Merwin noted that the goal of the signing program is to show the visiting
public .the tenants ..and .locations., with continuity throughout the site.
Mr. Merwin reviewed the signing program for the Commission.
There was discussion regarding the. proposed sign locations; the number of
signs= the size of the signs; the number of tenants to be listed per
monument signs the potential number of tenants for listing on proposed
monument sign A3; and the possibility of allowing the applicant to revise
the signing program should. the need arise.
M/S: Olszewski, Christ - That the Planning Commission adopt the
attached findings and approve SA 87-15
subject to conditions indicated in the
Staff Report of May 12, 1987, as well as
the following conditions:
(1) The center name to be incorporated
into the base of each monument sign=
and,
(2) The size of monument signs changed
to 6'x 8'; and
(3) Monument sign #A3 to be allowed up _
to and including 4 tenant names.
Motion carried unanimously (5-0-2).
• • •
$A 8.7-20 Appeal of the decision of the Planning
Jaquez, J. Director denying signing request - DJ's
A Cut Above - 880 E. Campbell Ave. - PD
tPlanned Development/Commercial) Zoning
District.
Commissioner Christ reported that this application was considered by the
Site and Architectural Review Committee. The Committee is recommending
that the Planning Commission uphold the Planning Director's decision
denying this sign. It is the opinion of the Site Committee that the
triangular •DJ's• represents a logo, and is appropriate for wall-mountings
however, the 'A Cut Above' should be individual letters on the building,
rather than a canister sign, to match the other signage on the building.
Planning Director Kee reviewed this application, noting that Staff is
recommending denial. Mr. Xee indicated the submittal of a petition
regarding this matter (attached hereto).
-9-
Mr. Jesse Jaquez, applicant, requested that he be allowed to put up his
sign to promote his business, noting that to deny his sign is taking away
his right to individuality. Mr. Jaquez stated that the entire sign 'DJ's
A Cut Above' is his logo -- not •DJ's•. Mr. Jaquez pointed out that the
Commission has the authority to allow the necessary leeway to approve his
sign.
Mrs. Jaquez, owner of DJ•s A Cut Above, stressed that the entire name is
the store's logo.
Commissioner Olszewski noted that it seems apparent that the proposed
signage is not consistent with other signage on the building.
Commissioner Walker stated that it is regretable that the sign has already
be made and does not coincide with the other signage= however, it is not
consistent, and therefore, he felt the Planning Director's decision should
be upheld.
Chairman Perrine concurred with comments made thus far, and thanked the
applicant for providing his statement in writing (attached hereto.
M/S: Christ, Walker - That the Planning Commission uphold the
decision of the Planning Director and
deny SA 87-20, based on the finding that
the proposed cabinet sign is a different
style and design from other approved
signs at this location, in that the
other signs consist of individual
letters mounted on the building wall.
Motion carried with the following roll
call vote:
AYES: Commissioners: Stanton, Olszewski, Christ, Walker, Perrine
:~iOES: Commissioners: None
ABSENT: Commissioners: Kasolas, Dickson.
City Attorney Seligmann explained the appeal procedure to the applicant.
Commissioner Olszewski commented that sign companies are aware of the
City's sign ordinance, and perhaps the applicant may want to look into
this matter. Commissioner Olszewski asked~if the City has a..program to
notify sign companies segarding the ordinance.
Mr. Kee noted that sign company representatives were involved in writing
the ordinancef a public hearing for the ordinance was held= and most of
the businesses who deal with Staff are aware of the ordinance. Normally,
out-of-town companies call the office before designing a sign.
_ Chairman Perrine asked if there was a way to reduce or waive the fees if
i the applicant comes back with s different sign request.
hr. Ree indicated that another fee would be required.
. • •
-10-
Request Request of Messrs. Kanwaljit i Surinder
Mann that a veterinarian clinic be a
permitted use in an M-1-S Zoning
District.
Planning Director Kee reported that a request has been received from !!~e
applicant's representative to withdraw this request.
M/S: Christ, Stanton - That the request for a determination
that a veterinarian clinic is a
permitted use in an M-1-S Zoning
District be removed from the agenda at
the request of the applicant. Motion
carried unanimously t5-0-2).
: • •
Staff Report ~ informational report regarding Phase II
of the consultant's report - Downtown
Study Revialization Feasibility
l~nalysis.
Planning Director Kee reported that the City Manager will make a
presentation on this report at the Planning Commission meeting of May 26,
1987. ~,ny comments may be directed to him. at that time.
It was the consensus of the Commission that this matter be agendized for
the meeting of May 26, 1987.
The issues of signing and 'gateway', or identification, for downtown were
suggested as possible discussion topics under this subject.
~ : r
Staff Report Informational Report regarding condition
of property - 900 E. Hamilton 1-ve.
Commissioner Christ requested that the Commission be kept up to date on
any further developments on this site.
Commissioner Stanton thanked Staff for their most efficient response to
the Commission's concerns regarding this property.
It was the consensus of the Commission that this report be noted and.
filed.
:: :
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_. Staff Report Study Sessions.
It was the consensus of the Commission that Staff telephone the
Commissioners to determine a date for a study session. Suggested dates are
the first, third, and fifth Tuesday of June. .
. • :
ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business, the
meeting was adjourned at 10:45 p.:a.
APPROVED: Jay Perrino
Chairman
ATTEST: Arthur A. !(ee
Secretary
RECORDED:. Linda A. Dennis
Recording Secretary
~r~- /Zn a
KEA'NETH G. MOORE
•.TTORNET -T l~.W
20395 PACIFIGA DRIVE
SUITE 103
CUPEBTINO, CALIFORNIA Bb014
1401 256-996
May 8, 1987
City of Campbell
Planning Commission
George C. Kasolas, Chairperson
Jeanne Fairbanks
J. DuWayne Dixon
Ronald W. Crist
Jay Perrine '
Bruce J. Olszewski
Robert T. Stanton
Arthur A. Kee, Secretary
70 North First Street
Campbell, CA 95008
Re: Subject: Opposition to Application of Frank and Patricia Yoshell
to Allow Second-Story Addition to Single-Family Residence
Planning Department No.: rut 87-OS
Our Clients: Don and Youvha Kathary
- Hearing Date: May 12, 1987, 7:30 p.m.
Dear Members of the Commission:
Please be advised that this office represents Don and Youvha
Kathary who are the owners of a single-family residence located at
605 Lisa Way, Campbell. My clients are in opposition to the application
of Frank and Patricia Yoshell for modification to a planned development
to allow a zero lot line second-story addition to their home located at
509 Lisa Way, Campbell.
My client's concerns and objections to the Yoshell's application
to construct a second-story addition are essentially as follows:
1. The subdivision on Lisa Way, of which both the Yoshell and my
client's dwellings are a part, was originally designed as part
of a single-story planned unit development within a medium
density residential zoning district. All of the residences
within the subdivision presently only consist of a single
story.
2. The .subdivision is already classified as a medium density
project, and dwelling units located within the subdivision
are presently crowded close together with minimal or no lot
line set back.
City of Campbell
Planning Commission
May 8, 1987.
Page -2-
3. The construction of a second story addition to anyone of
the subdivision units would be aestheticaly undesirable
in relation to the rest of the subdivision and neighbor-
hood.
4. Most importantly the erection of a second story would
effectively constitute a nuisance to surrounding neigh-
bors by depriving those neighbors of access to a sub-
stantial amount of light and air considering the close
proximity of-the subdivision dwellings to each other.
5. My clients are further justifiably concerned that the
potential disruption and nuisance brought about by the
proposed construction in a planned unit development
will operate to depreciate property values within the
subdivision.
Thank you for your consideration of my client's position in this
matter.
Very truly yours,
KENNETH C. MOORS
KCM/bas
cc: Don & Youvha Kathary
Sue Harlan, Esq.
,..~~k.. Y~ . ~ .
MAY 11, 1987
629 LISA WAY
CAMPBELL, CA 95008
CITY OF CAMPBELL
70 NORTH FIRST STREET
CAMPBELL, CA 95008
DEAR MR. KEE:
THIS IS IN REGARD TO FILE# MM 87-05, 609 LISA WAY. I WILL BE
UNABLE TO ATTEND THE PLANNING COMMISSION'S MEETING TOMORROW,~BUT
WOULD LIKE TO VOICE•MY OPINION ON THE BUILDING OF A SECOND STORY
TO 609 LISA WAY.
AS THE OWNER OF 629 LISA WAY, I FEEL THAT A VARIANCE TO THE HOUSING
OF THE TRACT WILL DECREASE PROPERTY VALUES. THE STANDARDIZATION
OF THE UNITS LEAD TO THE HARMONY AND EYE APPEAL OF THE NEIGHBORHOOD.
MANY OF THE UNITS OF THIS TRACT ARE RENTALS AND EVEN THOUGH MANY ARE
WELL KEPT, THERE ARE. SOME PROBLEMS FROM TIME TO TIME.. OWNERS
AS MYSELF ARE TRYING TO MAINTAIN THE NEIGHBORHOOD TO MAKE OUR
j ENVIRONMENT PLEASING FOR. ALL. I FEEL THAT THE ADDITION OF A SECOND
FLOOR TO ONE OF THESE UNITS WILL BE AN EYE-SORE AND DETRACT FROM.
-- THE APPEARANCE AS WELL AS VALUES OF THESE HOMES.
THANK YOU VERY MUCH FOR YOUR CONSIDERATION ON THIS MATTER.
SINC~EREL~
~~ //
HN D. FRENZEL
29 LISA WAY
CAMPBELL, CA 95008.
984-6321
u
MAY 1219E7
CITY Ur (.:r1i•~rvtLL
P_L'ANNINO. OEPJ-RTMENZ
RECOMMENDED FINDINGS: S 87-02
SITE ADDRESS: 137 E. HAMILTON AVE
APPLICANT:. SHEPARDSEN, B.
P. C. MTG.: 5-12-67
1. The proposed project is an appropriate scale in relationship to the
adjacent developed uses.
2. The project is well designed and architecturally blends into. the.
neighborhood.
3. The building design is considered acceptable .and interesting by the
architectural Advisor.
4. The project is designed to minimize infringement on neighboring
properties.
5. The project is of a high quality design and will be aesthetically
pleasing.
6. Substantial landscaping has been provided which adds to the aesthetics
of the project.
~y.
z ~•
RECOMMENDED FINDINGS: SA 87-20 ITEM N0. 6
SITE ADDRESS: 880 E. C1\MPBELL AVE REVISED
APPLICANT: JAQUEZ, J.
P. C. MTG: 5-12-87 '
1. The proposed cabinet sign is a different style and design from other
approved signs at this location in that the other signs consist of
individual letters mounted on the building wall.
~ ~P
- ~ PG hT~ s/ iy~~,
- Ladies and gentlemen of the Campbell Planning Commission and fellow
citizens and businessmen, my name is Jesse Jaquez owner and operator of
DJ'S A CUT ABOVE a new family hair care salon in Campbell and I am here
to appeal the Planning Directors decision to prohibit a wall-mounted sign
to be put up on 880 Campbell ave. 4102. Along with a copy of my appeal I
am suppling each of you with copies of the declaration of independence, a
copy of the first amendment to the constitution, a copy of the .case of
McCulloch vs. Piaryland, and copies of the sign and specifications.
As a reference to this case I would. like to quote from a rather old
and-distinguished document....the Declaration of Independence.
"We hold these truths to be self-evident that all men are created equal;
that they are endowed by their creator with certain inalienable rights;
that among these are life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness; that
to secure these rights, governments are instituted among men, deriving
their just powers from the consent of the governed; that whenever any
form of government becomes destructive to these ends, it is the right of
the the people to alter or abolish it and to institute a new government
laying its foundation on such principles and organizing its powers in such
form as to them shall seem most likely to to effect their safety and
happiness , rr
The second reference I'll make, which is considerably shorter is just
as, if not more, important is a quote from the. first amendment of the.
United States Constitution.
"Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion
or prohibiting the free exercise there of or abridging the freedom of
speech or the press; or the right of the people to peaceably assemble
and to petition the government for a redress of grievances."
It is my opinion, supported by the loose constructional interpretations
:of Lhe constitution and it's amendments, that by attempting to censor the
type of sign in front of a business you are violating the first amendment
right of freedom of speech. In addition I shall attempt to point out that
you are in fact neglecting the rights of those who, in good faith, elected
you to office.
The freedom of speech is guaranteed to us by the above mentioned
constitution. Speech, by definition, is self expression and comes
in many different and varied ways. It can be oral much like a
presentation, It can be written by a journalist, reported be a
newsperson, signed by those who can't speak and even expressed on
a sign used to advertise one's own business.
It is the right of the business owner to determine what type of sign
best advertises his business and only his landlord should dictate if
the sign can be•put up or not. .
- It is your duty as Planning Commission to regulate signs that may be
construed as lewd, vulgar or perverse, those that might be to large
for the property they are on, or for any reason might be unsafe and
-- hazardous to the public.
The sign in question is neither vulgar or perverse, it is a profess-
ionally done sign which poses no hazard to the public and it is well within
the size limitations allowed for said property.
If it is the boards reasoning that because the first amendment dons not
specifically mention signs as one of the items protected under the freedom
of speech, I will refer to the case of !laryland vs. 1'fcCulloch which appeared
be-fore the Supreme Court and Chief Justice Afarshall in 1819. In this landmark
decision federal law was found to be supreme to state and local laws, and
set forth a doctrine of "implied powers". One must to a degree read between
the lines, this is known as "loose construction" and has since the 1800's
protected the citizens of the United States from themselves and from over-
zealous politicians.
This country was founded on the doctrine of individualism, a founding
doctrine that you are without foresight destroying at it's most basic level.
By attempting to regulate the type of sign that A CUT ABOVE can display to
promote the business, you are in effect taking away the owners inalienable
right of individualism understood under the freedom of speech amendment of
the United States Constitution.
Thank you for you patience end understanding and I look forward to a
favorable resolution of this matter.
Sincerely,
9 ~~~
Jesse Jaquez
DJ`s A Cut Above