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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2014-12-16 PC Regular Meeting Minutes CITY OF PALM DESERT PALM DESERT PLANNING COMMISSION PRELIMINARY MINUTES TUESDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2014 — 6:00 P.M. COUNCIL CHAMBER 73-510 FRED WARING DRIVE, PALM DESERT, CA 92260 I. CALL TO ORDER Chair Roger Dash called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. II. ROLL CALL Present: Absent: Commissioner John Greenwood Vice Chair Ken Stendell Commissioner Sonia Campbell Commissioner Nancy DeLuna Chair Roger Dash Staff Present: Jill Tremblay, City Attorney Lauri Aylaian, Director of Community Development Tony Bagato, Principal Planner Eric Ceja, Associate Planner Monica O'Reilly, Administrative Secretary Christina Canales, Assistant Engineer III. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Commissioner John Greenwood led the Pledge of Allegiance. IV. SUMMARY OF COUNCIL ACTION Ms. Lauri Aylaian, Director of Community Development, reported that at the meeting of December 11, 2014, a new mayor, a new mayor pro tem, and two City Council members were sworn in. The Council had a final reading on two ordinances: 1) changes to Title 5 and Title 25 (massage establishments) in the Palm Desert Municipal Code; and 2) a change of zone for the undeveloped parcel at Entrada del Paseo that is planned for future public use. i PRELIMINARY MINUTES PALM DESERT PLANNING COMMISSION DECEMBER 16, 2014 V. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS None VI. CONSENT CALENDAR A. MINUTES of the Planning Commission meeting of December 2, 2014. Rec: By Minute Motion, approve as presented. B. REQUEST FOR CONSIDERATION of a lot line adjustment to merge Lots 56 and 57 at 48-300 Mariposa Drive (APNs 655-110-010 and 655-110-011). Case No. PMW 14-375 (Steven & Marianne Liebmann, 7177 Jade Hill Lane, Bozeman, Montana 59715, Applicant). Rec: By Minute Motion, approve a lot line adjustment, Case No. PMW 14- 375. Upon a motion by Commissioner Campbell, second by Commissioner Greenwood, and a 4-0-1 vote of the Planning Commission (AYES: Campbell, Dash, DeLuna, and Greenwood; NOES: None; ABSENT: Stendell), the Consent Calendar was approved as presented. VII. CONSENT ITEMS HELD OVER None VIII. NEW BUSINESS None IX. PUBLIC HEARINGS A. REQUEST FOR CONSIDERATION for approval of a categorical exemption and a precise plan of design to construct an 11 ,000-square-foot fellowship hall, expand the existing parking lot, and make landscape improvements at the Hope Lutheran Church of Palm Desert located at 45-900 Portola Avenue. Case No. PP 13-270 (Hope Lutheran Church of Palm Desert, 45-900 Portola Avenue, Palm Desert, California 92260, Applicant). Mr. Eric Ceja, Associate Planner, stated that the applicant is proposing the construction of a new fellowship hall for the Hope Lutheran Church of Palm Desert. He said that the church has been in operation since 1972, and is located on the corner of Fairway Drive and Portola Drive. He provided a Power Point presentation that included pictures of the site, exhibits, and plans. Mr. Ceja briefly gave a description of the proposed project and improvements. He noted that the 2 G\Planning\Monica OReilly\Planning Commission\2014\Minutes\12-16-14 min.docx PRELIMINARY MINUTES PALM DESERT PLANNING COMMISSION DECEMBER 16, 2014 new changes to the parking lot will include an additional 25 parking stalls. He also noted that the current zoning code has a maximum building height of 35 feet in this district. However, when the worship center was approved in 1999, the Planning Commission approved a maximum height of 37 feet. He stated that applicant proposed maintaining the 37-foot maximum height to match the existing worship center. He mentioned that the Architectural Review Commission (ARC) approved the proposed project, with two recommendations. He stated that for California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) purposes, it was determined that the project is Categorically Exempt (Class 32); there is no environmental impact and no further review is required. Mr. Ceja offered to answer any questions. Commissioner Sonia Campbell referred to the additional 25 parking stalls, and asked if there should be a driveway opening on Lantana Avenue. Mr. Ceja responded that at one time a new driveway on Lantana Avenue was proposed but then it was removed; therefore, there will not be a driveway. Commissioner Campbell asked if there would be any traffic issues with the additional parking. Mr. Ceja replied that there would not be. Chair Dash declared the public hearing open and asked for any public testimony IN FAVOR or OPPOSITION. MR. TIM HOLT, Holt Architects, Rancho Mirage, California 92270, stated that the i new proposed fellowship hall will be a meaningful addition to their campus. They feel that the new addition will complement the existing building. He mentioned that the existing buildings will receive a new exterior finish to match the new fellowship hall so it is all unified. Commissioner Nancy DeLuna complimented the architect for designing a I� building that fits in with the neighborhood, fits in with the church's needs, and for updating the existing buildings. They have done a great job. With no further testimony offered, Chair Dash declared the public hearing closed. Commissioner Greenwood agreed with Commissioner DeLuna's sentiments. He thinks it is a nice project and a nice addition. Commissioner Greenwood moved b Minute Motion to approve a categorical Y Pp 9 exemption and a precise plan of design to construct an 11,000-square-foot fellowship hall, expand the existing parking lot, and make landscape improvements at the Hope jLutheran Church of Palm Desert. Motion was seconded by Commissioner DeLuna and carried by a 4-0-1 vote (AYES: Campbell, Dash, DeLuna, and Greenwood; NOES: None; ABSENT: Stendell). 3 GAPlanning\Monica OReilly\Planning Commission\2014\Minutes\12-16-14 min.dou PRELIMINARY MINUTES PALM DESERT PLANNING COMMISSION DECEMBER 16, 2014 Commissioner Greenwood moved, by Minute Motion, to waive further reading and adopt Resolution No. 2640, approving Precise Plan 13-270, subject to conditions. Motion was seconded by Commissioner DeLuna and carried by a 4-0-1 vote (AYES: Campbell, Dash, DeLuna, and Greenwood; NOES: None; ABSENT: Stendell). B. REQUEST FOR CONSIDERATION of Tentative Tract Map 36816 and Precise Plan/Conditional Use Permit 14-288 for a four-unit condominium project totaling 7,666 square feet with common parking lot and landscape improvements located at 73-793 Shadow Mountain Drive. Case No. TTM 36816 and PP/CUP 14-288 (Absolute Partners One, LLC, 45-800 Mohawk Circle, Indian Wells, California 92210, Applicant). Mr. Ceja stated that the applicant has submitted a tentative tract map, a precise plan, and a conditional use permit application to subdivide a 13,500-square-foot lot into four condominium units and one common lot. The proposed project is located on the south side of Shadow Mountain Drive between Portola Avenue and San Luis Rey Avenue. The property was previously an apartment complex; however, it was demolished earlier this year. He reported that the site is currently vacant except for some existing palm trees that were preserved and will be integrated into the new project. He displayed photos of the site, building exhibits, and plans of the proposed project. He pointed out an existing wood fence along the rear property line, and noted that it will be replaced with a six-foot tall block wall. He also pointed out an incomplete sidewalk in front of the proposed project, which will be completed as part of the project. Mr. Ceja provided a description of the proposed condominiums' design and improvements. He stated that the project is within the multi-family residential zone, and is compatible with other uses in the area. He noted that the applicant is providing eight parking stalls. The current code requires 10 parking stalls for four condominiums. He reported that if the condominiums were apartments only eight parking stalls would be required. He stated that staff is satisfied with the eight parking stalls being provided. Mr. Ceja mentioned that staff is revisiting the parking code to make apartments and condominiums consistent with one another. He stated that there is no environmental impact since the site was previously developed. He offered to answer any questions. Chair Dash commented that he visited the site, and had a concern with the size of the site. However, as long as the project meets all the code requirements, he is fine with it. He asked how the condominiums are separated, and where the entrances are located for the four units. Mr. Ceja responded that each unit has its own separate entrance. The two middle units will have front door entrances that face the parking lot, and the outside units have side entry doors, with additional yard space. Chair Dash inquired if the palm trees will be relocated. -� 4 GAPlanning\Monica OReilly\Planning Commission\2014\Minutes\12-16-14 min.docx PRELIMINARY MINUTES PALM DESERT PLANNING COMMISSION DECEMBER 16, 2014 Mr. Ceja replied that some palm trees will remain in place; however, he deferred the question to the applicant. Commissioner DeLuna asked if the condominiums are for purchase and not for rent. Mr. Ceja replied that is correct. Commissioner DeLuna asked where guests would park. Do they park on Shadow Mountain Drive? Mr. Ceja said that on-street parking is available so guests could use the private parking or park on Shadow Mountain Drive. Commission DeLuna inquired how the parking stalls are broken down. Mr. Ceja pointed to one of the photographs to show the location of the parking stalls. Commissioner DeLuna commented that Shadow Mountain Drive is a busy street, and she is concerned if every unit had one guest at the same time. She asked if staff is convinced that there would be no congestion and enough parking available on the street. Mr. Ceja replied that he is relatively convinced. He mentioned that parking in the area of the proposed project is not much of an issue because directly across is the former Mod Hotel, which has a lot of on-street parking. There is additional street parking to the west on Shadow Mountain Drive. He noted that the hotel does not take most of the on-street parking. Commissioner DeLuna clarified that guests from the condominiums would park in the hotel parking lot. Mr. Ceja replied no. He explained that the hotels do not use the on-street parking, which opens parking spaces for the condominiums. Commissioner Greenwood commented that he sees two designated Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) parking spaces. He asked if each condominium has two assigned spaces. Mr. Ceja deferred the question to the applicant. Chair Dash declared the public hearing open and asked for any public testimony IN FAVOR or OPPOSITION. 5 GAPlanning\Monica OReilly\Planning Commission\2014\Minutes\12-16-14 min.dou PRELIMINARY MINUTES PALM DESERT PLANNING COMMISSION DECEMBER 16, 2014 MR. MARTIN BRUNNER, o2 Architecture, Palm Springs, California 92262, stated that they plan to have four carports with assigned parking spaces, and two ADA designated spaces. One ADA parking space is under a carport, and the second space is in guest parking to provide equivalent amenities for ADA. He mentioned that the palm trees will be relocated within the project site. He offered to answer any questions. Commissioner Campbell commented that she likes the architecture. With no further testimony offered, Chair Dash declared the public hearing closed. Commissioner Campbell commented that she likes the project and architecture. There are other condominiums on Shadow Mountain Drive and Larrea Lane that have worked out nicely. She also does not think there will be a problem with parking due to the size of the condominiums. She moved for approval. Commissioner Campbell moved, by Minute Motion, to approve Tentative Tract Map 36816 and Precise Plan/Conditional Use Permit 14-288 for a four-unit condominium project totaling 7,666 square feet with common parking lot and landscape improvements located at 73-793 Shadow Mountain Drive. Motion was seconded by Commissioner DeLuna and carried by a 4-0-1 vote (AYES: Campbell, Dash, DeLuna, and Greenwood-, NOES: None; ABSENT- Stendell). Commissioner Campbell moved, by Minute Motion, to waive further reading and adopt Resolution No. 2641, approving Tentative Tract Map 36816 and Precise Plan/Conditional Use Permit 14-288, subject to conditions. Motion was seconded by Commissioner Greenwood and carried by a 4-0-1 vote (AYES: Campbell, Dash, DeLuna, and Greenwood-, NOES: None-, ABSENT: Stendell). Commissioner Greenwood congratulated the applicant and thanked him for bringing in a beautiful project. X. MISCELLANEOUS None XI. COMMITTEE MEETING UPDATES A. ART IN PUBLIC PLACES None B. PARKS & RECREATION None 6 GAPlanning\Monica OReilly\Planning Commission\2014\Minutes\12-16-14 min.dou PRELIMINARY MINUTES PALM DESERT PLANNING COMMISSION DECEMBER 16, 2014 C. GENERAL PLAN UPDATE Commissioner Greenwood reported that they had a fantastic public workshop on December 4. He mentioned that the consultant provided exciting exhibits, and they received very good feedback. He stated that the General Plan Update Technical Working Group will meet again on Friday, December 19. XII. COMMENTS Ms. Aylaian mentioned that the new art sculpture exhibit on El Paseo for 2015/2016 has been installed. There is an opening for the exhibition scheduled on Monday, January 5 at The Gardens at 6:00 p.m. Please call Ms. Debbie Thompson to RSVP. Commissioner DeLuna asked if there is an existing wood fence, regardless of the condition, is the owner allowed to keep the wood fence. Or is the City of Palm Desert in the process of upgrading fences so ultimately there will be block walls? Ms. Aylaian responded that staff will be going to the Architectural Review Commission, Planning Commission, and the City Council with some recommendations on how to modify the existing ordinances. She stated that the current recommendation is a wood fence would be allowed to remain provided that it is maintained in good condition. For a new fence, it will be required to be built out of block or iron. Commissioner DeLuna referred to the condominium project. She said that the applicant is removing the wood fence and replacing it with a block wall. She asked if it would be appropriate for the Planning Commission to ask for a condition to be added on a project like the condominiums to have a block wall installed instead of a wood fence. Ms. Aylaian replied that it could be added as a condition, provided that the Planning Commission could state the findings as to why the proposed project necessitated that there be a block wall. Chair Dash mentioned that he read an article in the newspaper regarding a path connecting the Coachella Valley cities. He asked Ms. Aylaian if she had any comments on the project. Ms. Aylaian responded if it is constructed, it will be one of the largest projects installed in the Coachella Valley that is roughly a $100 million project. She stated that $80 million in grants have been received, and it will be a multi-year project; construction on any phase would not begin until 2018. She also stated that the proposed project continues to be studied from an environmental impact standpoint by the Coachella Valley Association of Governments, who is the lead agency on the project. 7 GAPlanning\Monica OReilly\Planning Commission\2014\Minutes\12-16-14 min.docx PRELIMINARY MINUTES PALM DESERT PLANNING COMMISSION DECEMBER 16, 2014 XIII. ADJOURNMENT Upon a motion by Commissioner Greenwood, second by Commissioner Campbell, and a 4-0-1 vote of the Planning Commission (AYES: Campbell, Dash, DeLuna, and Greenwood; NOES: None; ABSENT: Stendell), Chair Dash adjourned the meeting at 6:41 p.m. ROG DASH, CHAIR ATTEST: LAURI AYLAIAN, SECRETARY PALM DESERT PLANNING COMMISSION MONICA O'REILLY, RECOR ING SECRETARY 8 GAPlanning\Monica OReilly\Planning Commission\2014\Minutes\12-16-14 min.docx