HomeMy WebLinkAbout2024-03-12 ARC Regular Meeting Agenda PacketCity of Palm Desert Page 1
ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW COMMISSION
CITY OF PALM DESERT, CALIFORNIA
AGENDA
(HYBRID MEETING)
City Hall, Development Services Conference Room
73-510 Fred Waring Drive
Palm Desert, CA 92260
Pursuant to Assembly Bill 2449, this meeting may be conducted as a hybrid meeting
allowing public access via teleconference or in person.
•To participate via Zoom, use the following link: https://palmdesert.zoom.us/j/83648797515,
Zoom Webinar ID: 836 4879 7515.
•To participate by telephone call (213) 338-8477 or (669) 219-2599, Zoom Webinar ID: 836
4879 7515. To provide a public comment please press *9 to raise your hand.
•Written public comment may also be submitted to planning@palmdesert.gov. Emails received
by 9:30 a.m. prior to the meeting will be distributed to the Commission. Any correspondence
received during or after the meeting will be distributed to the Commission as soon as
practicable and retained for the official record. Emails will not be read aloud except as an
ADA accommodation.
1.CALL TO ORDER
2.ROLL CALL
3.NON-AGENDA PUBLIC COMMENT: This time has been set aside for the public to address
the Architectural Review Commission on issues that are not on the agenda for up to three
minutes. Because the Brown Act does not allow the Commission to act on items not listed on
the agenda, members may briefly respond or refer the matter to staff for a report and
recommendation at a future meeting.
4.CONSENT CALENDAR: All matters listed on the Consent Calendar are considered routine
and may be approved by one motion. The public may comment on any items on the Consent
Calendar within the three-minute time limit. Individual items may be removed by Commissioners
for a separate discussion.
A.APPROVAL OF MINUTES
RECOMMENDATION: Approve the Architectural Review Commission Regular Meeting
minutes of February 27, 2024.
Tuesday
March 12, 2024 12:30 p.m.
Regular Meeting
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Architectural Review Commission Agenda March 12, 2024
City of Palm Desert Page 2
CONSENT ITEMS HELD OVER: Items removed from the Consent Calendar for separate
discussion will be considered at this time.
5. ACTION CALENDAR
A. FINAL DRAWINGS
1. CASE NO: MISC24-0002
NATURE OF PROJECT/APPROVAL SOUGHT: Consideration for approval of a
façade renovation and architectural improvements for a new jewelry store Hope
Diamonds & Company at 72990 Highway 111.
APPLICANT AND ADDRESS: German Santamaria Design, Palm Desert, CA 92211
LOCATION: 72990 Highway 111
ZONE: Regional Commercial Center (PC-3)
RECOMMENDATION:
The ARC determines that the requirements of the findings have been met based
on the analysis and approves the Design Review with the following condition:
1. All equipment shall be adequately screened, consistent with Palm Desert
Municipal Code Section 25.40.090.
6. NON-ACTION ITEMS
None
7. INFORMATIONAL REPORTS & COMMENTS
A. ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW COMMISSIONERS
B. CITY STAFF
C. ATTENDANCE REPORT
8. ADJOURNMENT: The next Regular Meeting will be held on March 26, 2024, at 12:30 p.m.
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Architectural Review Commission Agenda March 12, 2024
City of Palm Desert Page 3
AFFIDAVIT OF POSTING
I hereby certify under penalty of perjury under the laws of the State of California that the
foregoing agenda for the Architectural Review Commission was posted on the City Hall bulletin
board and City website not less than 72 hours prior to the meeting.
Melinda Gonzalez
Recording Secretary
PUBLIC NOTICES
Agenda Related Materials: Pursuant to Government Code §54957.5(b)(2) the designated
office for inspection of records in connection with this meeting is the Development Services
Department, City Hall, 73-510 Fred Waring Drive, Palm Desert. Staff reports for all agenda
items and documents provided to a majority of the legislative bodies are available for public
inspection at City Hall and on the City’s website at www.palmdesert.gov.
Americans with Disabilities Act: It is the intention of the City of Palm Desert to comply with
the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) in all respects. If, as an attendee or a participant at
this meeting, or in meetings on a regular basis, you will need special assistance beyond what
is normally provided, the city will attempt to accommodate you in every reasonable manner.
Please contact the Office of the City Clerk, (760) 346-0611, at least 48 hours prior to the
meeting to inform us of your needs and to determine if accommodation is feasible.
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City of Palm Desert Page 1
ALL ACTIONS ARE DRAFT, PENDING APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES
ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW COMMISSION
CITY OF PALM DESERT, CALIFORNIA
MINUTES
(HYBRID MEETING)
City Hall, Development Services Conference Room
Pursuant to Assembly Bill 2449, this meeting may be conducted as a hybrid meeting
allowing public access via teleconference or in person.
1. CALL TO ORDER
A Regular Meeting of the Architectural Review Commission (ARC) was called to order by
Chair Vuksic on Tuesday, February 27, 2024, at 12:30p.m. in the Development Services
Conference Room, City Hall, located at 73510 Fred Waring Drive, Palm Desert, California.
2. ROLL CALL
Present: Commissioners, Dean Wallace Colvard, Nicholas Latkovic, Michael McAuliffe,
Vice Chair Jim McIntosh, and Chair John Vuksic.
Absent: Commissioners James Edward Blakeley and Francisco Sanchez.
City Staff
Present: Richard Cannone, Development Services Director; Carlos Flores, Principal
Planner; Kenny Taylor, Associate Planner; and Melinda Gonzalez, Recording
Secretary, were present at Roll Call.
3. NON-AGENDA PUBLIC COMMENT
Chair Vuksic opened and closed the non-agenda public comment period. No public
comments were provided.
4. CONSENT CALENDAR
Associated documentation and video on the following item can be viewed on the Architectural
Review Commission Information webpage at, https://www.palmdesert.gov/our-
city/committees-and-commissions/commission-information.
A. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
MOTION BY COMMISSIONER MCAULIFFE, SECOND BY COMMISSIONER
COLVARD, CARRIED 5-0 (COMMISSIONERS BLAKELEY and SANCHEZ ABSENT), to
approve the Architectural Review Commission Regular Meeting minutes of February 13,
2024.
Tuesday
February 27, 2024
12:30 p.m.
Regular Meeting
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Architectural Review Commission Minutes February 27, 2024
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ALL ACTIONS ARE DRAFT, PENDING APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES
CONSENT ITEMS HELD OVER
None
5. ACTION CALENDAR
Associated documentation and video on the following item can be viewed on the Architectural
Review Commission Information webpage at, https://www.palmdesert.gov/our-
city/committees-and-commissions/commission-information.
A. FINAL DRAWINGS
1. CASE NO: SARC23-0011
NATURE OF PROJECT/APPROVAL SOUGHT: Consideration to approve a Sign
Design Review for improvements to an existing façade to the Carl’s Jr’s restaurant
located at 36879 Cook Street.
APPLICANT AND ADDRESS: Anthony Santistevan, Chino, CA 91710
LOCATION: 36879 Cook Street
ZONE: Regional Commercial Center, Scenic Preservation (P.C.-3)
Associate Planner, Kenny Taylor, narrated a PowerPoint presentation on the item and
responded to Commission inquiries. Steve Rosenbloom, Applicant Representative,
was present in-person.
Chair Vuksic opened the public comment period and invited the applicant to speak.
Steve Rosenbloom, Applicant Representative, introduced himself and answered
questions from the Commission. With no other members of the public wishing to
comment, Chair Vuksic closed the public comment period. Discussion on the item
ensued with Commissioners providing comments for the project.
Following discussion, MOTION BY COMMISSIONER MCAULIFFE, SECOND BY
COMMISSIONER COLVARD, CARRIED 5-0 (COMMISSIONERS BLAKELEY and
SANCHEZ ABSENT); to approve Case No. SARC23-0011 as presented with the
following conditions:
1. The lighting on the band shall remain solid and white, as shown on the
approved plans.
2. Any change to the trim band, including, but not limited to, color, design,
thickness, and installation, shall be reviewed by the Architectural Review
Commission.
2. CASE NO: MISC23-0049
NATURE OF PROJECT/APPROVAL SOUGHT: Consideration to approve a Design
Review to modify the approved architecture associated with a Precise Plan to develop
a 120-unit residential detached development within University Park
APPLICANT AND ADDRESS: Toll West Coast, LLC, Irvine, CA 92602
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ALL ACTIONS ARE DRAFT, PENDING APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES
LOCATION: Planning Area 3 of the University Park Master Plan (within the
University Neighborhood Specific Plan)
ZONE: Planned Residential – 18 (PR-18)
Principal Planner, Carlos Flores, narrated a PowerPoint presentation on the item and
responded to Commission inquiries. Bill and David Yrigoyen, Applicant
Representatives, were present in-person.
Chair Vuksic opened the public comment period and invited the applicant to speak.
Bill Hezmalhalch and David Yrigoyen, Applicant Representatives, introduced
themselves, provided additional information for the project, and answered questions
from the Commission. With no other members of the public wishing to comment, Chair
Vuksic closed the public comment period. Discussion on the item ensued with
Commissioners providing comments for the project.
Following discussion, MOTION BY CHAIR VUKSIC, SECOND BY VICE CHAIR
MCINTOSH, CARRIED 5-0 (COMMISSIONERS BLAKELEY and SANCHEZ
ABSENT); to continue Case No. MISC23-0049 with the following comments:
1. Front elevations should be further enhanced, specifically by thickening the
walls so windows are recessed less than 12 inches.
2. Homes which have exposed sides should be enhanced with architectural
elements and/or layering.
3. Revisit Spanish plan side elevations where there is zero overhang for
alternative design.
4. The two-story plan elevations, window should be centered to gable.
3. CASE NO: PP23-0008
NATURE OF PROJECT/APPROVAL SOUGHT: Consideration to approve a Design
Review related to a Precise Plan (PP) to construct a duplex development; near the
northwest corner of Alessandro Drive and San Jacinto (Assessor’s Parcel Number
627-182-010).
APPLICANT AND ADDRESS: Nader Iskander, Whittier, CA 90603
LOCATION: Near the Northwest corner of Alessandro Drive and San Jacinto
(Assessor’s Parcel Number 627-182-010).
ZONE: Residential - 2 (R-2)
Principal Planner, Carlos Flores, narrated a PowerPoint presentation on the item and
responded to Commission inquiries. Nader Iskander, Applicant, was present via Zoom.
Chair Vuksic opened the public comment period and invited the applicant to speak.
Nader Iskander, Applicant, introduced himself, provided additional details for the
project, and answered questions from the Commission. With no other members of the
public wishing to comment, Chair Vuksic closed the public comment period.
Discussion on the item ensued with Commissioners providing comments for the
project.
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Architectural Review Commission Minutes February 27, 2024
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ALL ACTIONS ARE DRAFT, PENDING APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES
Following discussion, MOTION BY COMMISSIONER LATKOVIC, SECOND BY
COMMISSIONER COLVARD, CARRIED 4-0 (COMMISSIONERS BLAKELEY,
MCINTOSH, and SANCHEZ ABSENT); to continue Case No. PP23-0008 with the
following comments:
1. Garage doors should reflect the contemporary building design.
2. Presentation improvements should be added to the south elevation, including
moving the vent to a different location and increasing the front entrance height.
3. Add enhancement to the south elevation by thickening walls at least 18 inches.
6. NON-ACTION ITEMS
None
7. INFORMATIONAL REPORTS & COMMENTS
A. ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW COMMISSIONERS
Commissioner Colvard provided an update on the Cultural Arts Committee (CAC)
reporting the CAC approved a proposed 160ft mural by Robert “Trinity” Rivard, that is a
nod to City field workers and shared a picture of the proposed mural located at 74705
42nd Avenue.
B. CITY STAFF
Director Cannone provided the following updates:
The Objective Design Standards is scheduled to go before the City Council at their next
meeting on March 14, 2024.
Staff is working on separate objective design standards that will apply to the downtown
designations. Additionally, staff will be reviewing downtown zones to consider
consolidation of the various overlays, address non-conformities, view sheds, view
corridors, heights, and related items to update.
Staff are working with the City attorney to update the City’s municipal code for chapters
which address Subdivisions and Grading.
A brief discussion amongst the Commission and staff was held regarding solar on projects
and the possibility of potentially requiring applicants to show proposed placement of solar
on their projects to allow for the ARC to review its impact on design.
It was mentioned that the news featured a report called “Walk and Roll” on the City of
Palm Desert’s continued efforts to create pathways for bicyclists and pedestrians.
Principal Planner Flores noted the City’s efforts are in collaboration with CVAG’s larger
goal to provide bicycle and pedestrian connections valley wide.
C. ATTENDANCE REPORT
The attendance report was provided with the agenda materials. The Commission took
no action on this matter.
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Architectural Review Commission Minutes February 27, 2024
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ALL ACTIONS ARE DRAFT, PENDING APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES
8. ADJOURNMENT
The Architectural Review Commission adjourned at 2:21 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Melinda Gonzalez, Executive Administrative Assistant
Recording Secretary
ATTEST:
Carlos Flores, Principal Planner
Secretary
APPROVED BY ARC: __/__/2024
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CITY OF PALM DESERT
DEVELOPMENT SERVICES DEPARTMENT
ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW COMMISSION MEMORANDUM
To: Honorable Chair and Members of the Commission
From: Kenny Taylor, Associate Planner
Date: March 12, 2024
Case No: MISC24-0002
Subject: Consideration for approval of a façade renovation and architectural
improvements for a new jewelry store Hope Diamonds & Company at 72990
Highway 111.
Executive Summary
The proposal is a request by German Santamaria Design (Applicant) to improve an existing
vacant building (formerly Fast Auto Loans) located at 72990 Highway 111. The Applicant is
seeking approval for exterior modifications in conjunction with a tenant improvement for an
interior remodel. The Architectural Review Commission (ARC) will consider the architectural
design of the proposed project for final consideration. There are no proposed modifications
to the existing landscaping as part of this project. Signage in the plan packet is for reference
only. The applicant will submit signage plans for staff to review later.
Project Summary
A. Property Description:
The project site is an existing building located on the north side of Highway 111, south of
Westfield Shopping Mall formerly known as the “Fast Auto Loans”. The building was originally
constructed in 1975, went through multiple tenants, and was last operating as the “Fast Auto
Loans”, but is currently vacant. The current proposal is to update the façade of the building
that has remained similar architecturally since original construction. Hope Diamonds &
Company is a retail jewelry store currently located in Westfield Shopping Mall. The applicant
has purchased the property as of 2021, transitioning from a mall tenant to a brick-and-mortar
establishment. The proposed location will improve business operations with direct visibility of
auto traffic from Highway 111/Monterey intersections, front-row parking, and additional floor
space to repair jewelry items within the establishment.
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MISC24-0002 – Hope Diamonds & Company
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March 12, 2024
B. Zoning, General Plan and Adjacent Uses
Table 1 – Adjacent Land Use and Designations
Existing Uses General Plan Zoning
Project Site Vacant Commercial
Building
Regional Retail Regional Commercial
Center (PC-3)
North The Shops at Palm
Desert (Regional Mall)
Regional Retail Regional Commercial
Center (P.C.-3)
South Existing Multitenant
Commercial
Town Center
Neighborhood Center
Regional Commercial
Center (P.C.-3)
East Existing Multitenant
Commercial
Regional Retail Regional Commercial
Center (P.C.-3)
West Existing Chase Bank Regional Retail Regional Commercial
Center (P.C.-3)
C. Site Plan
The Site Plan (Figure 1 below) shows the existing building and proposed floor plan of 1,937
square feet. The proposed modification will result in minimal changes to the site plan and
building footprint. The proposed building modification meets the minimum setback
requirements and development standards of the Palm Desert Municipal Code (PDMC) for the
Planned Commercial (P.C.-3) zoning district.
Figure 1 – Proposed Site Plan (Sheet 1)
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MISC24-0002 – Hope Diamonds & Company
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March 12, 2024
Vehicular access to the project is from the existing driveway off of Monterey Avenue. Per
PDMC section 25.46.040(A) a total of 6 parking spaces are required for this project. The
project has fifteen (15) designated existing off-street parking spaces, two of which are ADA
accessible, which exceeds the minimum required parking spaces.
Architecture
The Applicant is requesting approval of a design review for a façade modification to an
existing vacant building to propose a “contemporary modern” Architectural design. The
building has visibility from Monterey Avenue and Highway 111.
All existing façades including window, wall, door, and roof tile overhangs will be removed.
The building elevations will be modified to incorporate the contemporary modern design
theme with design features to include new store front windows, recessed walls, building pop-
outs, varied roof lines, and decorative ceramic wall tile. The building will utilize a new
aluminum 6-inch metal vent painted classic gold projecting portal above the storefront entry
doors and roofline parapet on all proposed elevations.
Figure 2 – Proposed Rendering – View of West
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MISC24-0002 – Hope Diamonds & Company
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March 12, 2024
All modifications are limited to the exterior, with minimum structural alterations to the floor
plan proposed. All elevations provide 360-degree architectural enhancements visible from
Highway 111 and Monterey Avenue and coordinate well with the surrounding buildings and
regional mall.
Development Standards
The project is subject to the development standards set forth by the Palm Desert Municipal
Code (PDMC) for the Planned Commercial (P.C.-3) zoning district and the Desert Crossings
Sign Program. The project does propose minimal building expansion of additional floor space
approximately 159 square feet to the site plan. The expansion will not create a non-
conforming lot since the building setback requirements can be adequately met. In addition,
the minor expansion does not require additional off-site parking. As proposed, the project will
comply with parking and all development standards established in the City’s Zoning
Ordinance.
ZONING ORDINANCE SUMMARY
Alterations to retail and commercial facades are subject to the review and approval of a
design review by the Architectural Review Commission pursuant to PDMC Section 25.68.020
(A)(1) and (A)(2). Findings for the ARC decisions of design review applications are listed
under PDMC Section 25.68.040 – Findings of the ARC. Findings in support of the project are
listed below.
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MISC24-0002 – Hope Diamonds & Company
Page 5 of 6
March 12, 2024
To approve a design review application, the ARC shall find the following:
A. That the proposed development conforms to any legally adopted development
standards.
The proposed improvements conform with the standards for the PC-3 zoning district,
including setbacks, floor area ratio, parking, and density. All development standards
are met.
B. That the design and location of the proposed development and its relationship to
neighboring existing or proposed developments and traffic is such that it will not impair
the desirability of investment or occupation in the neighborhood; and that it will not
unreasonably interfere with the use and enjoyment of neighboring existing or proposed
developments and that it will not create traffic hazards or congestion.
The proposed project will improve the building façade to an existing vacant building
within the PC-3 zoning, in an area adjacent to existing retail, restaurant, service
commercial, and hotel uses. The design of the project includes materials and elements
which are compatible with existing architecture in the vicinity. The design of the project
does not impair the desirability of investment or occupation in the area. The project is
not anticipated to generate additional traffic or create traffic hazards or congestion.
C. That the design and location of the proposed development is in keeping with the
character of the surrounding neighborhood and is not detrimental to the harmonious,
orderly, and attractive development contemplated by this title and the General Plan of
the City.
The design of the project includes architectural enhancements to an existing vacant
building which are compatible and harmonious with the surrounding buildings and
regional mall. The purposed project modifications will remain consistent with the
development standards for the Planned Commercial (P.C.-3) zoning district and City
General Plan.
D. That the design and location of the proposed development would provide a desirable
environment for its occupants, as well as for its neighbors, and that it is aesthetically
of good composition, materials, textures, and colors.
The purposed project will utilize and enhance an existing vacant building located at
the intersection of Monterey Avenue and Highway 111. The proposed design utilizes
durable finishes and features, which is compatible with the adjacent building in terms
of materials, textures, and colors.
E. That the proposed use conforms to all the requirements of the zone in which it is
located and all other applicable requirements.
The proposed development conforms with all development standards of the underlying
PC-3 zoning district and all other applicable requirements.
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MISC24-0002 – Hope Diamonds & Company
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March 12, 2024
F. That the overall development of the land shall be designed to ensure the protection of
the public health, safety, and general welfare.
The site plan has been reviewed to confirm the design provides for protection of the
public’s health, safety, and general welfare. The site is adequately serviced by utilities.
The project provides sufficient setbacks from adjacent properties and complies with
applicable standards of the PC-3 zoning district.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends the ARC determines that the requirements of the findings have been met
based on the analysis and approves the Design Review with the following condition:
1) All equipment shall be adequately screened, consistent with Palm Desert
Municipal Code Section 25.40.090.
Attachment:
1) Project Exhibits
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CITY OF PALM DESERTATTENDANCE REPORTAdvisory Body: Architectural Review CommissionPrepared By:Year2023 2023MonthDate 9-Jan 24-Jan 13-Feb 27-Feb 14-Mar 28-Mar 11-Apr 25-Apr 9-May 23-May 13-Jun 27-Jun 11-Jul 25-Jul 8-Aug 22-Aug 12-Sep 26-Sep 10-Oct 24-Oct 14-Nov28-Nov 12-Dec 28-DecBlakeley, James EdwardEEEEPPP - P-EPP - P -50Colvard, Dean WallacePPPPP PP- P - P-PPP - P-PEE - P -20Latkovic, NicholasPPPPP PP- P - E-PPP - P-PPP - E -20McAuliffe, MichaelPPPPP PP- P - P-PPP - P-PPP - P -00McIntosh, JamesEPPPP PP- P - P-PEA- P-PPP - P-31Sanchez, FranciscoPPPE P PP- P - P-PPP - P-PPP - P -10Vuksic, JohnPPPPP PP- P - P-PPP - P-PEP - P -10Palm Desert Municipal Code 2.34.010:PPresentAAbsentEExcused- No meetingM. Gonzalez2023Twice Monthly: Six unexcused absences from regular meetings in any twelve-month period shall constitute an automatic resignation of members holding office on boards that meet twice monthly.Total Unexcused AbsencesJan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep20232024 2024202320232023Total AbsencesOct Nov Dec20232023 2023 2023Page 24 of 24