The June 14, 2006 agenda was available for public access at the City Hall exterior bulletin board and the Department of Planning Services counter by 5:00 p.m. on June 9, 2006.

Craig A. Ewing requested Items 8 and 2B to be continued to the Planning Commission meeting of June 28, 2006.

2B. Case 3.2829 MAJ - An application by Grant Hovakimyan to construct approximately 7,200 square foot, 3 unit condominium building located at 551 East Vista Chino Road, Zone R2, Section 11, APN 507-022-005.

Approved, as part of the Consent Agenda, to continue to the Planning Commission meeting of June 28, 2006.

PUBLIC HEARINGS:

3. Case 3.2844, 3.2845, 3.2846 and 3.2847 MAJ - An application by Desert View East, LLC, to construct four warehouse buildings of approximately 5,108 square foot each located at 19024 and 19070 Ruppert Street and 19021 and 19069 Newhall Street, Zone M1, Section 15, APN: 666-402-001 - 004.

Principal Planner, Edward Robertson, gave background information as outlined in the staff report dated June 14, 2006.

He indicated the Architectural Advisory Committee requested two revisions which the applicant has made to staff’s satisfaction.

Chair Marantz opened the Public Hearing portion of the meeting.

There being no comments, Chair Marantz, closed the Public Hearing portion of the meeting.

Motion to To adopt, the draft Negative Declaration and approve Case Nos. 3.2844, 3.2845, 3.2846 and 3.2847, subject to Conditions of Approval. Moved by Vice Chair Hochanadel, seconded by Cohen.

Vote to (Approved)

4. Case 6.491 VAR - An application by Century Vintage Homes for Mountain Gate II for a variance to Section 93.02.00.E (Fences, Walls and Landscaping - Height Standards) to add two feet of glass wall to the top of the northern portion of the existing six foot perimeter block wall of the development located at Gateway Drive and Highway 111, Zone PD 279, Section 34.

Director of Planner Services, Craig A. Ewing, gave background information as outlined in the staff report dated June 14, 2006. He indicated the applicant has stated the reasons for the wall are primarily to block the prevailing winds and to provide protection to the rear yard area of the homes.

Further clarification and discussion was made relating to sandblasting, maintenance and replacement of the wall.

Chair Marantz opened the Public Hearing portion of the meeting.

Tom Hill, representing Century Vintage Homes, gave additional information.

There being no further comments, Chair Marantz, closed the Public Hearing.

Commissioner Roath requested clarification on the wall height.

Motion to To approve, subject to Conditions of Approval. Moved by Hutcheson, seconded by Cohen.

Vote to To approve, subject to Conditions of Approval. (Approved)

5. Case 5.1106 CUP - An application by Omnipoint Communications Inc., for a Conditional Use Permit for the installation of a ninety foot tall commercial communications antenna designed as a light pole and an equipment cabinet enclosed with a 7 foot high fence located at 450 South Sunrise Way, Zone O, Section 13.

Principal Planner, Edward Robertson, gave background information as outlined in the staff report dated June 14, 2006.

He indicated the applicant has secured a letter of authorization with the City to allow them to continue with the application.

Commissioner Hochanadel requested clarification on the height of the existing poles.

Chair Marantz opened the Public Hearing portion of the meeting.

Pete Shubin, representing the Omnipoint Communications, gave additional information pertaining to the proposed height of the antenna and the existing light poles.

Craig A. Ewing reported that he had recently visited this site and he felt that this increase in height is consistent with the other towers which are converted into light poles.

Gary Lemeris, Palm Springs, lives directly across from Sunrise Park, voiced his concern about the accessibility to the high voltage boxes enclosed in the equipment shelter; trash in the area and proper compensation for the City.

Commissioner Hochanadel requested clarification on City's compensation for the lease of this site.

Mary Brent Wehrli, Palm Springs, voiced her concern relating to the City receiving proper compensation for leasing property for cell tower antennas.

There being no further comments, the Public Hearing was closed.

Commissioner Shoenberger requested clarification relating to possible future changes at the stadium and the City’s protection. Craig A. Ewing reported that Condition #5 provides protection to the City.

Note: Vice Chair Hochanadel made a motion of denial; The motion was seconded by Ringlein. MOTION FAILED.

Motion to To recommend approval to City Council, subject to Conditions of Approval. Moved by Hutcheson, seconded by Shoenberger.

Vote to To recommend approval to City Council, subject to Conditions of Approval. (Approved)

6. Case 6.488 VAR - An application by Walter K. Bowman, M.S. Landscape, for a variance to Section 92.05.03.E (Yards) to reduce the required setbacks from 10 feet to 5 feet for the construction of carports within the setback area located at 302 South Calle Encilia, Zone HR, Section 14, APN 508-092-002.

Director of Planning Services, Craig A. Ewing, gave background information as outlined in the staff reported dated June 14, 2006.

Chair Marantz opened the Public Hearing portion of the meeting.

Walter Bowman, representing M.S. Landscape, available for questions and stated he is in agreement with the conditions of approval.

There being no further comments, Chair Marantz, closed the Public Hearing.

Motion to To approve, subject to Conditions of Approval. Moved by Vice Chair Hochanadel, seconded by Cohen.

Vote to To approve, subject to Conditions of Approval. (Approved)

7. Case 5.1070 PD 317 / TTM 30047 - An application by Newport Federal (Eagle Canyon) for a proposed Planned Development District 317, Tentative Tract Map 30047. The Planned Development would allow the construction of 75 single-family homes and 155 town homes on approximately 60.24 acres of a 117 acre parcel.

Commissioner Shoenberger stated he has a business related conflict of interest and would not participate in the discussion and vote. He left the Council Chamber at 2:20 p.m.

Contract Planner, Nicole Criste, provided background and detailed information as outlined in the staff report dated June 14, 2006.

She indicated that the architecture for this is site is consistent with Specific Plan Requirements.

She gave further details using the power point presentation.

Chair Marantz requested clarification on the single and double loaded streets and density transfer.

Commissioner Hutcheson commented this area is very rocky and requested clarification on the existing boulders.

Vice Chair Hochanadel requested clarification on the level of the pads.

Commissioner Cohen requested clarification on the street width and parking.

Commissioner Hochanadel requested clarification on the hydrology drainage flowing to the neighboring golf course.

Chair Marantz opened the Public Hearing portion of the meeting.

James Watson, representing the applicant, requested additional time to speak, gave the background history to this project. He gave detailed information on the boundaries of the 117 acre parcel and the Specific Plan amended in 2003. He used the Power Power presentation additional details.

He indicated one of the most obvious challenges in the land planning effort was the hydrology solution on this site.

He gave an outline on the infrastructure benefits to the City and the Community.

David Tom, (name unclear) spoke about the challenges and balance involved in working with this project; indicated staff has been very supportive and gave further details using the Power Point presentation relating the architecture and landscape.

Howard Baerad, Palm Springs, has lived in Andreas Hills for 20 years, spoke in favor of the project on the basis of the traffic and flood problems in this area.

Dana Stewart, Palm Springs, read a letter submitted from residents on Milo Drive, relating to Hillside development.

Linda Williamson, Palm Springs, lives in the area, spoke in favor of the project and commended the developer for addressing the traffic problems in this area.

Charles Sachs, Palm Springs, requested this project be put on hold because of a potential economic downturn; spoke in opposition of this project.

Jono Hilder, chair of Save our Mountains, stated his concerns relating to this site being another alluvial fan.

Lee Goodsell, Palm Springs, spoke in favor of the proposed project and commented that the developer chose smart and responsible development.

Vic Gainer, Palm Springs, requested consideration for boulder crushing and consistency in the density transfer of projects.

James Watson, applicant rebuttal, commented that they have worked very diligently and requested approval of this project.

There being no further comments, Chair Marantz, closed the Public Hearing portion of the meeting.

A recess was taken at 3:41 p.m.

The meeting resume at 3:56 p.m.

Chair Marantz requested clarification the width of streets and set-backs.

Further clarification and discussion was made relating to the parking bays, catch basins, the trail on conservation land, set-backs for the garages, flood control and drainage.

Craig A. Ewing gave clarification relating to density transfer.

Commissioner Roath commented that this site would benefit from a development such as Smoke Tree Ranch. He liked the architecture but felt the project is too crowded.

Commissioner Hutcheson commented that with a project of this scale there are always trade-offs and overall he felt this would be an excellent project for the City of Palm Springs.

Commissioner Cohen voiced his support of the project.

Commissioner Ringlein stated her support of the project; but was only opposed to a gated community. She commended the developer for all their effort with the hydrology and streets.

Commissioner Hochanadel stated his support of the project but prefers garages to include set-backs.

Chair Marantz stated she felt this is a good project and suggested the use of the garage for parking vehicles rather than a storage area.

Motion to To recommend approval to City Council, subject to Conditions of Approval. Moved by Vice Chair Hochanadel, seconded by Cohen.

Vote to To recommend approval to City Council, subject to Conditions of Approval. (Approved)

Commissioner Shoenberger re-entered the Council Chamber at 4:26 p.m.

8. Zoning Ordinance Amendment for Chino Cone and Adjacent Areas - Consideration for an amendment to the Palm Springs Zoning Ordinance and establish new development standards for the Chino Cone and adjacent areas located southwest of Highway 111 and generally bisected by Tramway Road. Adjacent areas also affected by the proposed project include lands north of the Chino Cone along the southwesterly edge of Highway 111.

Craig A. Ewing requested this Item be continued to the meeting of June 28, 2006.

Chair Marantz opened the Public Hearing portion of the meeting.

Dana Stewart, Palm Springs, spoke in reference to the Coachella Valley Water District Management Task Force report indicating a water shortage and the importance of air quality within developments.

There being no further comments, the Public Hearing, is continued until June 28, 2006.

Motion to To continue to Planning Commission meeting of June 28, 2006. Moved by Cohen, seconded by Vice Chair Hochanadel.

Vote to To continue to Planning Commission meeting of June 28, 2006. (Approved)

9. ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW: None.

MISCELLANEOUS:

10. Case SP 06-007 - An application by Censource for review of a sign program for the Tahquitz Plaza Shopping Center located at 101 North Sunrise Way, Zone RA, Section 14, APN 508-070-042.

Principal Planner, Edward Robertson, gave background information as outlined in the staff reported date June 14, 2006.

Commissioner Cohen reported that the Architectural Advisory Committee reported that they are pleased with the changes made to the monument signs.

Motion to To approve, subject to Conditions of Approval. Moved by Roath, seconded by Cohen.

Vote to To approve, subject to Conditions of Approval. (Approved)

11. Case 10.455 - A request for Determination of Use finding that open space/parks be a permitted use in any Professional (P) Zone.

Director of Planning Services, Craig A. Ewing, gave background information as outlined in the staff report dated June 14, 2006.

Motion to To adopt the draft Resolution of Determination. Moved by Hutcheson, seconded by Vice Chair Hochanadel.

Vote to That the Planning Commission adopt the draft Resolution of Determination. (Approved)

12. Appointment of Planning Commissioner to the Project Team for the Gene Autry Trail Gateway Landscape Improvement Project.

Assistant Director of Public Works, Marcus Fuller, gave details relating to the role of the project team.

The Commission appointed Commissioner Cohen to the project team.

13.   COMMISSION WORK PROGRAM:
                                 * General Plan Update
                                  *Work Program Priorities and Subcommittee Assignments

Craig A. Ewing gave an update on the review of draft Community Design Element. He further indicated that the Traffic Analysis for the draft Land Use program should be completed within the next week.

14. CITY COUNCIL ACTIONS:

Craig reported that there will be no City Council Study Session tonight.

15. COMMISSION/STAFF REPORTS AND REQUESTS -

Commissioner Ringlein reiterated her request to Parks & Recreation to follow-up on the maintenance of the park benches and trash receptacles on Palm Canyon Drive, as well as, the trash clean up at the Stadium located at Sunrise Park.

Craig A. Ewing gave an update on Code Enforcement staff and the Administrative Citations program, as well as another pro-active program to be initiated shortly.

Chair Marantz requested clarification relating to a timeline schedule for several of projects under renovation. Craig A. Ewing gave further clarification relating to the status of these projects and additional details relating to historic preservation of older buildings.

Commissioner Cohen voiced his concerns relating to the tenant vacancies at the Desert Fashion Plaza.

Vice Chair Hochanadel reported a safety hazard at a construction site between Ramon Road and El Segundo. He stated that a construction fence is blocking the view of on-coming traffic. Craig A. Ewing reported that this would be reported to the Building Department.

Discussion was made relating to the pre-application process which was addressed at the Joint Meeting with the City Council.

Commissioner Ringlein suggested to the Commission that the Commissioner responsible for attending the Architectural Advisory Committee meeting report the comments for project on the agenda.

16. ADJOURNMENT: There being no further comments, the meeting was adjourned at 5:05 p.m.

Jun 14, 2006 Planning Commission

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16. ADJOURNMENT: There being no further comments, the meeting was adjouorned at 5:05 p.m.

Roll call: 7 Present, 0 Absent, 0 Excused

REPORT OF POSTING OF AGENDA:

The June 14, 2006 agenda was available for public access at the City Hall exterior bulletin board and the Department of Planning Services counter by 5:00 p.m. on June 9, 2006.

Craig A. Ewing requested Items 8 and 2B to be continued to the Planning Commission meeting of June 28, 2006.

1. PUBLIC COMMENTS: (Three minute time limit.)

Chair Marantz opened the Public Comments portion of the meeting.

There being no comments, the Public Comments was closed.

CONSENT AGENDA:

Motion to To approve, Items 2A and 2B as part of the Consent Agenda. Moved by Roath, seconded by Vice Chair Hochanadel.

Vote to To approve, Items 2A and 2B as part of the Consent Agenda. (Approved)

2A. Approval of Minutes: May 24, 2006

Approved, as part of the Consent Agenda.

2B. Case 3.2829 MAJ - An application by Grant Hovakimyan to construct approximately 7,200 square foot, 3 unit condominium building located at 551 East Vista Chino Road, Zone R2, Section 11, APN 507-022-005.

Approved, as part of the Consent Agenda, to continue to the Planning Commission meeting of June 28, 2006.

PUBLIC HEARINGS:

3. Case 3.2844, 3.2845, 3.2846 and 3.2847 MAJ - An application by Desert View East, LLC, to construct four warehouse buildings of approximately 5,108 square foot each located at 19024 and 19070 Ruppert Street and 19021 and 19069 Newhall Street, Zone M1, Section 15, APN: 666-402-001 - 004.

Principal Planner, Edward Robertson, gave background information as outlined in the staff report dated June 14, 2006.

He indicated the Architectural Advisory Committee requested two revisions which the applicant has made to staff’s satisfaction.

Chair Marantz opened the Public Hearing portion of the meeting.

There being no comments, Chair Marantz, closed the Public Hearing portion of the meeting.

Motion to To adopt, the draft Negative Declaration and approve Case Nos. 3.2844, 3.2845, 3.2846 and 3.2847, subject to Conditions of Approval. Moved by Vice Chair Hochanadel, seconded by Cohen.

Vote to (Approved)

4. Case 6.491 VAR - An application by Century Vintage Homes for Mountain Gate II for a variance to Section 93.02.00.E (Fences, Walls and Landscaping - Height Standards) to add two feet of glass wall to the top of the northern portion of the existing six foot perimeter block wall of the development located at Gateway Drive and Highway 111, Zone PD 279, Section 34.

Further clarification and discussion was made relating to sandblasting, maintenance and replacement of the wall.

Chair Marantz opened the Public Hearing portion of the meeting.

Tom Hill, representing Century Vintage Homes, gave additional information.

There being no further comments, Chair Marantz, closed the Public Hearing.

Commissioner Roath requested clarification on the wall height.

Motion to To approve, subject to Conditions of Approval. Moved by Hutcheson, seconded by Cohen.

Vote to To approve, subject to Conditions of Approval. (Approved)

5. Case 5.1106 CUP - An application by Omnipoint Communications Inc., for a Conditional Use Permit for the installation of a ninety foot tall commercial communications antenna designed as a light pole and an equipment cabinet enclosed with a 7 foot high fence located at 450 South Sunrise Way, Zone O, Section 13.

Principal Planner, Edward Robertson, gave background information as outlined in the staff report dated June 14, 2006.

He indicated the applicant has secured a letter of authorization with the City to allow them to continue with the application.

Commissioner Hochanadel requested clarification on the height of the existing poles.

Chair Marantz opened the Public Hearing portion of the meeting.

Pete Shubin, representing the Omnipoint Communications, gave additional information pertaining to the proposed height of the antenna and the existing light poles.

Craig A. Ewing reported that he had recently visited this site and he felt that this increase in height is consistent with the other towers which are converted into light poles.

Commissioner Hochanadel requested clarification on City's compensation for the lease of this site.

Mary Brent Wehrli, Palm Springs, voiced her concern relating to the City receiving proper compensation for leasing property for cell tower antennas.

There being no further comments, the Public Hearing was closed.

Note: Vice Chair Hochanadel made a motion of denial; The motion was seconded by Ringlein. MOTION FAILED.

Motion to To recommend approval to City Council, subject to Conditions of Approval. Moved by Hutcheson, seconded by Shoenberger.

Vote to To recommend approval to City Council, subject to Conditions of Approval. (Approved)

6. Case 6.488 VAR - An application by Walter K. Bowman, M.S. Landscape, for a variance to Section 92.05.03.E (Yards) to reduce the required setbacks from 10 feet to 5 feet for the construction of carports within the setback area located at 302 South Calle Encilia, Zone HR, Section 14, APN 508-092-002.

Director of Planning Services, Craig A. Ewing, gave background information as outlined in the staff reported dated June 14, 2006.

Chair Marantz opened the Public Hearing portion of the meeting.

Walter Bowman, representing M.S. Landscape, available for questions and stated he is in agreement with the conditions of approval.

There being no further comments, Chair Marantz, closed the Public Hearing.

Motion to To approve, subject to Conditions of Approval. Moved by Vice Chair Hochanadel, seconded by Cohen.

Vote to To approve, subject to Conditions of Approval. (Approved)

7. Case 5.1070 PD 317 / TTM 30047 - An application by Newport Federal (Eagle Canyon) for a proposed Planned Development District 317, Tentative Tract Map 30047. The Planned Development would allow the construction of 75 single-family homes and 155 town homes on approximately 60.24 acres of a 117 acre parcel.

Commissioner Shoenberger stated he has a business related conflict of interest and would not participate in the discussion and vote. He left the Council Chamber at 2:20 p.m.

Contract Planner, Nicole Criste, provided background and detailed information as outlined in the staff report dated June 14, 2006.

She indicated that the architecture for this is site is consistent with Specific Plan Requirements.

She gave further details using the power point presentation.

Chair Marantz requested clarification on the single and double loaded streets and density transfer.

Commissioner Hutcheson commented this area is very rocky and requested clarification on the existing boulders.

Vice Chair Hochanadel requested clarification on the level of the pads.

Commissioner Cohen requested clarification on the street width and parking.

Commissioner Hochanadel requested clarification on the hydrology drainage flowing to the neighboring golf course.

Chair Marantz opened the Public Hearing portion of the meeting.

He indicated one of the most obvious challenges in the land planning effort was the hydrology solution on this site.

He gave an outline on the infrastructure benefits to the City and the Community.

Howard Baerad, Palm Springs, has lived in Andreas Hills for 20 years, spoke in favor of the project on the basis of the traffic and flood problems in this area.

Dana Stewart, Palm Springs, read a letter submitted from residents on Milo Drive, relating to Hillside development.

Linda Williamson, Palm Springs, lives in the area, spoke in favor of the project and commended the developer for addressing the traffic problems in this area.

Charles Sachs, Palm Springs, requested this project be put on hold because of a potential economic downturn; spoke in opposition of this project.

Jono Hilder, chair of Save our Mountains, stated his concerns relating to this site being another alluvial fan.

Lee Goodsell, Palm Springs, spoke in favor of the proposed project and commented that the developer chose smart and responsible development.

Vic Gainer, Palm Springs, requested consideration for boulder crushing and consistency in the density transfer of projects.

James Watson, applicant rebuttal, commented that they have worked very diligently and requested approval of this project.

There being no further comments, Chair Marantz, closed the Public Hearing portion of the meeting.

A recess was taken at 3:41 p.m.

The meeting resume at 3:56 p.m.

Chair Marantz requested clarification the width of streets and set-backs.

Further clarification and discussion was made relating to the parking bays, catch basins, the trail on conservation land, set-backs for the garages, flood control and drainage.

Craig A. Ewing gave clarification relating to density transfer.

Commissioner Roath commented that this site would benefit from a development such as Smoke Tree Ranch. He liked the architecture but felt the project is too crowded.

Commissioner Hutcheson commented that with a project of this scale there are always trade-offs and overall he felt this would be an excellent project for the City of Palm Springs.

Commissioner Cohen voiced his support of the project.

Commissioner Ringlein stated her support of the project; but was only opposed to a gated community. She commended the developer for all their effort with the hydrology and streets.

Commissioner Hochanadel stated his support of the project but prefers garages to include set-backs.

Chair Marantz stated she felt this is a good project and suggested the use of the garage for parking vehicles rather than a storage area.

Motion to To recommend approval to City Council, subject to Conditions of Approval. Moved by Vice Chair Hochanadel, seconded by Cohen.

Vote to To recommend approval to City Council, subject to Conditions of Approval. (Approved)

Commissioner Shoenberger re-entered the Council Chamber at 4:26 p.m.

8. Zoning Ordinance Amendment for Chino Cone and Adjacent Areas - Consideration for an amendment to the Palm Springs Zoning Ordinance and establish new development standards for the Chino Cone and adjacent areas located southwest of Highway 111 and generally bisected by Tramway Road. Adjacent areas also affected by the proposed project include lands north of the Chino Cone along the southwesterly edge of Highway 111.

Craig A. Ewing requested this Item be continued to the meeting of June 28, 2006.

Chair Marantz opened the Public Hearing portion of the meeting.

Dana Stewart, Palm Springs, spoke in reference to the Coachella Valley Water District Management Task Force report indicating a water shortage and the importance of air quality within developments.

There being no further comments, the Public Hearing, is continued until June 28, 2006.

Motion to To continue to Planning Commission meeting of June 28, 2006. Moved by Cohen, seconded by Vice Chair Hochanadel.

Vote to To continue to Planning Commission meeting of June 28, 2006. (Approved)

9. ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW: None.

MISCELLANEOUS:

10. Case SP 06-007 - An application by Censource for review of a sign program for the Tahquitz Plaza Shopping Center located at 101 North Sunrise Way, Zone RA, Section 14, APN 508-070-042.

Principal Planner, Edward Robertson, gave background information as outlined in the staff reported date June 14, 2006.

Commissioner Cohen reported that the Architectural Advisory Committee reported that they are pleased with the changes made to the monument signs.

Motion to To approve, subject to Conditions of Approval. Moved by Roath, seconded by Cohen.

Vote to To approve, subject to Conditions of Approval. (Approved)

11. Case 10.455 - A request for Determination of Use finding that open space/parks be a permitted use in any Professional (P) Zone.

Director of Planning Services, Craig A. Ewing, gave background information as outlined in the staff report dated June 14, 2006.

Motion to To adopt the draft Resolution of Determination. Moved by Hutcheson, seconded by Vice Chair Hochanadel.

Vote to That the Planning Commission adopt the draft Resolution of Determination. (Approved)

12. Appointment of Planning Commissioner to the Project Team for the Gene Autry Trail Gateway Landscape Improvement Project.

Assistant Director of Public Works, Marcus Fuller, gave details relating to the role of the project team.

The Commission appointed Commissioner Cohen to the project team.

13.   COMMISSION WORK PROGRAM:
                                 * General Plan Update
                                  *Work Program Priorities and Subcommittee Assignments

Craig A. Ewing gave an update on the review of draft Community Design Element. He further indicated that the Traffic Analysis for the draft Land Use program should be completed within the next week.

14. CITY COUNCIL ACTIONS:

Craig reported that there will be no City Council Study Session tonight.

15. COMMISSION/STAFF REPORTS AND REQUESTS -

Craig A. Ewing gave an update on Code Enforcement staff and the Administrative Citations program, as well as another pro-active program to be initiated shortly.

Commissioner Cohen voiced his concerns relating to the tenant vacancies at the Desert Fashion Plaza.

Discussion was made relating to the pre-application process which was addressed at the Joint Meeting with the City Council.

Commissioner Ringlein suggested to the Commission that the Commissioner responsible for attending the Architectural Advisory Committee meeting report the comments for project on the agenda.

Jun 14, 2006 Planning Commission

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