HomeMy WebLinkAboutRes 99-106 HDPP 99-2 at 72275 Upper Way West CITY OF PALM DESERT
DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
STAFF REPORT
TO: Honorable Mayor and City Council
II. REQUEST: Approval of a hillside development plan allowing grading and
construction of a 3,200 square foot single family dwelling on a
7.5 acre site in the Hillside Planned Residential zone. Property is
located at 72-275 Upper Way West.
III. APPLICANT: Yolanda Fuentes Mendoza for
Roy W. Carver
40-770 Breeze Pass Road, #D
Palm Desert, CA 92211
IV. CASE NO: HDPP 99-2
V. DATE: November 18, 1999
VI. CONTENTS:
A. Staff Recommendation
B. Discussion
C. Draft Resolution No. 99-106
D. Planning Commission Minutes involving this case
E. Planning Commission Resolution No. 1949
F. Planning Commission Staff Report dated October 5, 1999
G. Related maps and/or exhibits
A. STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Waive further reading and adopt Resolution No. 99-104ipproving HDPP 99-2, subject
to conditions.
B. DISCUSSION:
1 . BACKGROUND:
The proposed single family residence is located on 7.5 acres west of the Palm
Valley storm channel. It will be developed on an 11 ,000 square foot bench
within a ravine. The pad will be created by fill with all renaturalized slopes.
The landscape plans indicate renaturalized desert planting up to the building
foundation. A detailed specification of "100% coverage renaturalization" is
being prepared.
STAFF REPORT
CASE NO. HDPP 99-2
NOVEMBER 18, 1999
2. PROJECT DESCRIPTION:
The single story home will be a highly articulated southwestern design, 13 to
14 feet in height, 3,200 square feet in area and colored two shades of
medium brown.
The access road is routed over relatively gently sloping terrain requiring a
minimum of disturbance. It will be surfaced with decomposed granite.
Under Option 1 of the Hillside Ordinance, building pad disturbance cannot
exceed five percent of the lot area when average slopes are above 36%. For
7.5 acres, the allowed pad is 16,335 square feet. Fully renaturalized areas
and roadways are excluded. The proposed 11 ,000 square foot pad is
consistent with the grading requirement of the ordinance.
This matter was before the Architectural Review Commission on September
14, 1999 and received preliminary approval on a 4-0 vote (Commissioners
Connor and Holden were absent).
3. ANALYSIS:
FINDINGS FOR APPROVAL OF A HILLSIDE DEVELOPMENT PLAN:
a. The proposal is consistent with the adopted Palm Desert General Plan
and West Hills Specific Plan.
b. The proposed site grading, architecture and landscaping complies with
the intent and specific requirements of the Hillside Planned Residential
District to blend with the natural terrain to the greatest possible extent.
c. The proposal will not be detrimental to the public health, safety or
general welfare, or be materially injurious to properties or improvements
in the vicinity.
4. ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW:
The Director of Community Development has determined that the project is a
Class 3 categorical exemption for purposes of CEQA and no further
documentation is necessary.
2
•
STAFF REPORT
CASE NO. HDPP 99-2
NOVEMBER 18, 1999
5. PLANNING COMMISSION HEARING:
Planning Commission considered this matter on October 5 and 1 9, 1 999 and
recommended approval to the City Council on a 4-0-1 vote (Commissioner
Lopez abstained).
6. CONCLUSION:
The proposed hillside home clearly meets the requirements within the
ordinance to blend with the natural terrain to the greatest extent possible.
Prepared by: r
P ilip Drell '0'1
/tm
CITY COUNCIL .CTION:
APPROVED t/ DENIED
OTHER
• 11 - Ia K
.:3$ENT
YRAIN• 7111 A0
RIFIED BY:
^:j nal on File with jf.tyQClerk' s Office
3
MINUTES
PALM DESERT PLANNING COMMISSION
OCTOBER 5, 1999
Mr. Smith said it looked like the citywas goingto end upwith the
property.
Chairperson Jonathan asked if anyone wished to speak in FAVOR or
OPPOSITION to the proposal. There was no one and the public hearing was
closed.
Commissioner Campbell said she would move for approval with the addition
of that condition. Chairperson Jonathan clarified that the condition would be
to bring existing structures up to code. Mr. Drell said it could within six
months of the recordation of the map. Commission concurred.
Action:
It was moved by Commissioner Campbell, seconded by Commissioner Beaty,
approving the findings as presented by staff. Motion carried 4-0.
It was moved by Commissioner Campbell, seconded by Commissioner Beaty,
adopting Planning Commission Resolution No. 1944, approving TPM 29246,
subject to conditions as amended. Motion carried 4-0.
B. Case No. HDPP 99-2 - YOLANDA FUENTES MENDOZA FOR ROY W.
CARVER, Applicant
Request for approval of a hillside development plan to allow
grading and construction of a 3,200 square foot single family
dwelling on a 7.5 acre site in the hillside residential zone at 72-
275 Upper Way West.
Mr. Drell explained that the proposal was for a single family home. Exhibits
were on display. It was a very unusual site. It has a relatively flat kind of a
hog back which erodes after crossing a drainage to get to a lower bench which
was about half way down from the top. In most cases, developers tried to
situate themselves at a high point to get a view of the valley. In this case this
was one placed down about half way down on a bench with the primary focus
of the house a view of a rather dramatic rock formation in the canyon. As a
result, with the exception of a few houses right on the edge of Mountain Back
or Sommerset, the development would probably not be visible from anywhere
in the valley. Those units over there, even though they could have a
spectacular view of the mountains, they all had garages facing the mountains.
5
MINUTES
PALM DESERT PLANNING COMMISSION
OCTOBER 5, 1999
In terms of size, it was moderate sized 3,200 square feet and designed with
height, etc., and met all the aspects of the intent and purpose of the zone. To
the greatest extent possible they would do a re-naturalization of all disturbed
slopes. In terms of design, the area was very consistent with the hillside
ordinance and staff was recommending approval. In looking through the file
it was unclear whether staff sent out legal notices to all the adjoining
properties. Unfortunately the secretary who might or might have sent them
out was on vacation. So staff was recommending that the commission open
up the public hearing, take as much testimony as possible, and staff was
renoticing it for two weeks from now. This was going to go to city council
anyway three weeks from now, therefore, they will not be delayed in getting
to City Council, but it would make sure that any one of the four or five
property owners that had interest would get noticed. One of the property
owners was the City of Palm Desert. He showed the location of the city-
owned property. Although staff would be recommending approval, to make
sure that noticing was done properly, he recommended that the public hearing
be left open and the matter be continued two weeks.
Chairperson Jonathan opened the public hearing and asked the applicant to
address the commission. There was no response. Chairperson Jonathan
asked if anyone wished to speak in FAVOR or OPPOSITION to this item.
There was no response. Chairperson Jonathan asked for commission
comments.
Action:
It was moved by Commissioner Beaty, seconded by Commissioner Finerty,
continuing HDPP 99-2 to October 19, 1 999 by minute motion. Motion carried
4-0.
C. Case No. CUP 99-10 - CRYSTAL GOBLET CELLAR, Applicant
Request for approval of a conditional use permit to operate a 662
square foot retail wine and crystal store with a type 20 off-sale
license at 73-200 El Paseo, Suite 3C.
Mr. Alvarez noted that the applicant proposed to operate a 662 square foot
retail store providing retail sales, vintage wines, port, champagnes and a wide
array of crystal stemware. The business would operate from 10:00 a.m. to
7:00 p.m. Monday through Saturday. The business would provide retail sales
6
•
MINUTES
PALM DESERT PLANNING COMMISSION
OCTOBER 19, 1999
VI. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS
None.
VII. CONSENT CALENDAR
A. Case No. PMW 99-01 - FOXX DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION,
Applicant
Request for approval of a parcel map waiver to merge two lots
more particularly described as APNs 627-020-004, 627-020-005
at 73-061 Fred Waring Drive.
B. Case No. PMW 99-14 - VLADIMIR PRAVDIC - Applicant
Request for approval of a parcel map waiver to merge two lots
to create one large lot to facilitate the expansion and remodel of
an existing residential building APNs 628-160-002 and 003.
Action:
It was moved by Commissioner Campbell, seconded by Commissioner Beaty,
approving the Consent Calendar by minute motion. Motion carried 5-0.
VIII. PUBLIC HEARINGS
Anyone who challenges any hearing matter in court may be limited to raising
only those issues he/she or someone else raised at the public hearing described
herein, or in written correspondence delivered to the Planning Commission at,
or prior to, the public hearing.
A. Case No. HDPP 99-2 - YOLANDA FUENTES MENDOZA FOR ROY W.
CARVER, Applicant (Continued from October 5, 1999)
Request for approval of a hillside development plan to allow
grading and construction of a 3,200 square foot single family
dwelling on a 7.5 acre site in the hillside residential zone at 72-
275 Upper Way West.
2
MINUTES
PALM DESERT PLANNING COMMISSION
OCTOBER 19, 1999
Mr. Drell noted that this project was in complete compliance with all the
specific requirements of the Hillside zone. It's design was such that it
succeeded in blending to the greatest extent possible with the natural terrain
with its color, architectural style and the plan for grading and renaturalization
of all disturbed areas. Therefore, staff was recommending that Planning
Commission recommend approval of this project to the City Council.
Commissioner Lopez informed commission that he would be abstaining since
this was a continued case and he was absent from the last meeting.
Chairperson Jonathan noted that the matter was continued to ensure proper
public notice was given. Chairperson Jonathan opened the public hearing and
asked the applicant to address the commission.
MS. MENDOZA spoke from the audience and said that she thought the
project spoke for itself.
Chairperson Jonathan asked if anyone wished to speak in FAVOR or
OPPOSITION. There was no one and the public hearing was closed.
Action:
It was moved by Commissioner Beaty, seconded by Commissioner Campbell,
approving the findings as presented by staff. Commissioner Finerty
complimented the applicant on their great hillside development sensitivity and
felt they couldn't have done it any better and it was greatly appreciated.
Chairperson Jonathan agreed and called for the vote. Motion carried 4-0-1
(Commissioner Lopez abstained).
It was moved by Commissioner Beaty, seconded by Commissioner Campbell,
adopting Planning Commission Resolution No. 1949, recommending to City
Council approval of HDPP 99-2, subject to conditions. Motion carried 4-0-1
(Commissioner Lopez abstained).
B. Case No. TT 29489 - SEVERIN & CO. LLC, Applicant
Request for approval of a one lot subdivision for 470 senior
residential units previously approved as part of the Portofino
project.
3
PLANNING COMMISSION RESOLUTION NO. 1949
A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY
OF PALM DESERT, CALIFORNIA, RECOMMENDING TO CITY
COUNCIL APPROVAL OF A HILLSIDE DEVELOPMENT PLAN
ALLOWING GRADING AND CONSTRUCTION OF A 3,200
SQUARE FOOT SINGLE FAMILY DWELLING ON A 7.5 ACRE
SITE IN THE HILLSIDE PLANNED RESIDENTIAL ZONE, 72-275
UPPER WAY WEST.
CASE NO. HDPP 99-2
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission of the City of Palm Desert, California, did on
the 5th day of October, 1999, hold a duly noticed public hearing, which was continued to
October 19, 1999, to consider the request of MR. BILL CARVER for approval of a hillside
development plan to allow construction of a 3,200 square foot single family home on a 7.5
acre site within the Hillside Planned Residential zone generally located west of the Palm
Valley Storm Channel, more particularly described as APN 628-130-010 and 628-130-012;
and
WHEREAS, said application has complied with the requirements of the "City of Palm
Desert Procedure for Implementation of the California Environmental Quality Act, Resolution
No. 97-18," in that the Director of Community Development has determined that the project
is a Class 3 categorical exemption; and
WHEREAS, at said public hearing, upon hearing and considering all testimony and
arguments, if any, of all interested persons desiring to be heard, said Planning Commission
did find the following facts and reasons to exist to justify its actions, as described below:
1 . The proposal is consistent with the adopted Palm Desert General Plan and
West Hills Specific Plan.
2. The proposed site grading, architecture and landscaping complies with the
intent and specific requirements of the Hillside Planned Residential District to
blend with the natural terrain to the greatest possible extent.
3. The proposal will not be detrimental to the public health, safety, or general
welfare, or be materially injurious to properties for improvements in the
vicinity.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Planning Commission of the City of Palm
Desert, California, as follows:
1 . That the above recitations are true and correct and constitute the findings of
the Commission in this case.
PLANNING COMMISSION RESOLUTION NO. 1949
2. That the Planning Commission does hereby recommend to City Council
approval of Hillside Development Plan No. 99-2, subject to the conditions
attached hereto.
PASSED, APPROVED and ADOPTED at a regular meeting of the Palm Desert Planning
Commission, held on this 19th day of October, 1999, by the following vote, to wit:
AYES: BEATY, CAMPBELL, FINERTY, JONATHAN
NOES: NONE
ABSENT: NONE
ABSTAIN: LOPEZ
SABBY JONATHAN, Chairperson
ATTEST:
PHILIP DRELL, Secretary
Palm Desert Planning Commission
2
PLANNING COMMISSION RESOLUTION NO. 1949
CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL
CASE NO. HDPP 99-2
Department of Community Development:
1 . The development of the property described herein shall conform to approved exhibits
on file in the Department of Community Development and shall be subject to the
restrictions and limitations set forth herein which are in addition to all the
requirements, limitations and restrictions of all municipal ordinances and state and
federal statutes now in force, or which hereafter may be in force.
2. Applicant shall receive approval from the Riverside County Health Department for an
on-site septic disposal system prior to issuance of building permits.
3. All disturbed areas in excess of the designated 11 ,000 square foot building pad shall
be renaturalized with rock and plant material to blend with the surrounding
undisturbed slopes as determined by the Architectural Review Commission and
Director of Community Development.
4. All utilities serving the site should be installed underground.
5. That all project landscaping be designed to blend with the natural hillside. Plan to be
approved by the Architectural Review Commission.
Department of Public Works:
1 . Any storm drain/retention area construction shall be contingent upon a drainage study
prepared by the registered civil engineer that is reviewed and approved by the
Department of Public Works.
2. In accordance with Palm Desert Municipal Code Chapter 27, complete grading plans
and specifications shall be submitted to the Director of Public Works for checking and
approval prior to the issuance of any permits.
3. Proposed pad elevations are subject to review and modification in accordance with
Chapter 27 of the Palm Desert Municipal Code. Site grading design shall include
consideration of existing topography.
3
PLANNING COMMISSION RESOLUTION NO. 1949
4. In accordance with Palm Desert Municipal Code Section 25.15, all manufactured
slopes shall be planted or otherwise protected from the effects of storm water runoff
and erosion within thirty days after completion.
Riverside County Fire Department:
1 . Access will not have an up or down grade of more than 15%.
2. Access will not be less than 20 feet wide.
3. Access will be free of sharp confined turns, 45 feet outside radius.
4. An approved turnaround shall be provided at all building sites.
4
RESOLUTION NO. 99-106
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PALM
DESERT, CALIFORNIA, APPROVING A HILLSIDE DEVELOPMENT
PLAN ALLOWING GRADING AND CONSTRUCTION OF A 3,200
SQUARE FOOT SINGLE FAMILY DWELLING ON A 7.5 ACRE
SITE IN THE HILLSIDE PLANNED RESIDENTIAL ZONE, 72-275
UPPER WAY WEST.
CASE NO. HDPP 99-2
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Palm Desert, California, did on the 18th
day of November, 1999, hold a duly noticed public hearing to consider the request of MR.
BILL CARVER for approval of a hillside development plan to allow construction of a 3,200
square foot single family home on a 7.5 acre site within the Hillside Planned Residential
zone generally located west of the Palm Valley Storm Channel, more particularly described
as APN 628-130-010 and 628-130-012; and
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission on October 19, 1999 recommended approval
by adoption of its Resolution No. 1949; and
WHEREAS, said application has complied with the requirements of the "City of Palm
Desert Procedure for Implementation of the California Environmental Quality Act, Resolution
No. 97-18," in that the Director of Community Development has determined that the project
is a Class 3 categorical exemption; and
WHEREAS, at said public hearing, upon hearing and considering all testimony and
arguments, if any, of all interested persons desiring to be heard, said City Council did find
the following facts and reasons to exist to justify its actions, as described below:
1 . The proposal is consistent with the adopted Palm Desert General Plan and
West Hills Specific Plan.
2. The proposed site grading, architecture and landscaping complies with the
intent and specific requirements of the Hillside Planned Residential District to
blend with the natural terrain to the greatest possible extent.
3. The proposal will not be detrimental to the public health, safety, or general
welfare, or be materially injurious to properties for improvements in the
vicinity.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Palm Desert,
California, as follows:
1 . That the above recitations are true and correct and constitute the findings of
the Council in this case.
RESOLUTION NO. 99-106
2. That the City Council hereby approves Hillside Development Plan No. 99-2,
subject to the conditions attached hereto.
PASSED, APPROVED and ADOPTED at a regular meeting of the Palm Desert City
Council, held on this 18th day of November , 1999, by the following vote, to wit:
AYES: Benson, Ferguson, Kelly, Spiegel, Crites
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
BUFORD A. CRITES, Mayor
ATTEST:
SHEILA R. GILLIGAN, City Clerk
City of Palm Desert, California
2
•
RESOLUTION NO. 99-106
CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL
CASE NO. HDPP 99-2
Department of Community Development:
1 . The development of the property described herein shall conform to approved exhibits
on file in the Department of Community Development and shall be subject to the
restrictions and limitations set forth herein which are in addition to all the
requirements, limitations and restrictions of all municipal ordinances and state and
federal statutes now in force, or which hereafter may be in force.
2. Applicant shall receive approval from the Riverside County Health Department for an
on-site septic disposal system prior to issuance of building permits.
3. All disturbed areas in excess of the designated 11 ,000 square foot building pad shall
be renaturalized with rock and plant material to blend with the surrounding
undisturbed slopes as determined by the Architectural Review Commission and
Director of Community Development.
4. All utilities serving the site should be installed underground.
5. That all project landscaping be designed to blend with the natural hillside. Plan to be
approved by the Architectural Review Commission.
Department of Public Works:
1 . Any storm drain/retention area construction shall be contingent upon a drainage study
prepared by the registered civil engineer that is reviewed and approved by the
Department of Public Works.
2. In accordance with Palm Desert Municipal Code Chapter 27, complete grading plans
and specifications shall be submitted to the Director of Public Works for checking and
approval prior to the issuance of any permits.
3. Proposed pad elevations are subject to review and modification in accordance with
Chapter 27 of the Palm Desert Municipal Code. Site grading design shall include
consideration of existing topography.
3
RESOLUTION NO. 99-106
4. In accordance with Palm Desert Municipal Code Section 25.15, all manufactured
slopes shall be planted or otherwise protected from the effects of storm water runoff
and erosion within thirty days after completion.
Riverside County Fire Department:
1 . Access will not have an up or down grade of more than 15%.
2. Access will not be less than 20 feet wide.
3. Access will be free of sharp confined turns, 45 feet outside radius.
4. An approved turnaround shall be provided at all building sites.
4