Video index
CALL TO ORDER:
The meeting was called to order at 1:38 p.m.
ROLL CALL:
Roll Call: 5 members present, 2 members absent, 0 members excused.
REPORT OF POSTING OF AGENDA:
The agenda was available for public access at the City Hall exterior bulletin board (west side of Council Chamber) and the Planning Services counter by 5:00 p.m. on Friday, May 4, 2007.
NOTE:
Chair Marantz announced a request for a continuance was made for the following items:
Item #4, Case 5.1093 CUP - An appeal by Ken Levin; and
Item #7, Case TTM 34627, Palm Springs View Estates Mobile Home Park
The Planning Commission proceeded to hear Public Comments prior to making a decision on the aforementioned requests.
1. PUBLIC COMMENTS: (Three minute time limit.)
Chair Marantz opened the Public Comments.
-Cal Hackler, Palm Springs, spoke in opposition of Item 7 and requested this poject be heard today.
-Steve Ohren, owner of the Colony Palms Hotel, requested Item 4 be heard today.
-Dick Matthews, Palm Springs, spoke in opposition of Item 7 and requested this item be heard today.
-David Chavarria, Palm Springs, spoke in opposition of Item 6, concerned with increased traffic flow and the high wall.
-Arlene Battishill,Palm Springs, voiced concern for traffic calming measures approved for the Spanish Inn in September 2005; none of which have been installed as of this date.
-Leon Abelon, Palm Springs, spoke in opposition of Item 7, concerned with the deterioration of the infrastructure.
There being no further comments, Public Comments was closed.
Commissioner Hutcheson stated he felt since staff has all the required information to make a recommendation for Item 7, his preference is not to continue this item. The Commission discussed the both requests for continuance and the consensus of the Commission was to hear Items 4 and 7.
CONSENT AGENDA:
Chair Marantz noted her abstention on Item 2B.
Motion to To approve, Items 2A and 2B, as part of the Consent Agenda. Moved by Hutcheson, seconded by Vice Chair Hochanadel.
Vote to To approve, Items 2A and 2B, as part of the Consent Agenda. (Approved)
2A. Case TTM 32263 - An application by Jeffrey Parker on behalf of RSM Arbours, LP, requesting a one-year time extension to subdivide one building into nine office condominiums located at 1301 Montalvo Way, Zone M-1-P, Section 7, APN: 677-461-002 and 003. (Project Planner: Bryan Fernandez, Assistant Planner).
2B. Case 3.3033 MAJ / 3.3034 MAJ - An application by Mario Berardi on behalf of Bera West Enterprises to construct two 5,000 square foot warehouse buildings located at 245 Radio Road and 265 Radio Road, Zone M-1, Section 34, APN: 669-444-002 and 003. (Project Planner: Bryan Fernandez, Assistant Planner)
ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW:
3. Case 5.1052 - PD 313 / TTM 33334 - An application by Michael Mueller for the Palm
Springs Racquet Club Properties, LLC, requesting approval for the Final Development
plans for previously approved PDD 313, a mixed-use development consisting of a new 55-
unit condominium complex, restaurant and a convenience store located at 2743 North
Indian Canyon Drive, Zone PD 313, Section 3. (Project Planner; Edward O. Robertson,
Principal Planner)
Chair Marantz noted her abstention. Commissioner Hutcheson noted his abstention. There is no quorum for this item therefore this case will be rescheduled to a later date.
OTHER BUSINESS:
NOTE: The Planning Commission considered during Public Comments the appellant’s
request for a continuation of this item. The Planning Commission decided to
proceed and hear the appeal.
4. Case 5.1093 CUP - An appeal by Ken Levin of a decision by the Director of Planning
Services for the parking and curb plan approved on April 13, 2007, for the Colony Palms
Hotel located at 572 North Indian Canyon Way.
Craig A. Ewing, Director of Planning Services, provided background information as outlined in the staff report dated May 9, 2007. He stated staff granted the reduction to accommodate the relocation of the parking spaces as a consequence of a court order reducing the five foot separation to 2 1/2 feet.
Commissioner Hutcheson requested the owner of Colony Palms address any impact which may be caused as a result of a delay to allow the appellant more time. Steven Ohren stated they are working hard at completing the balance of work to open the hotel. He stated the area in question is a small section consisting of only about six parking spaces. He requested this item be heard today since he cancelled a trip to New York to be present.
Further discussion was made pertaining to the buildings under construction and the delay if this item is continued.
Motion to To deny, and uphold the decision of the Director of Planning Services Moved by Hutcheson, seconded by Vice Chair Hochanadel.
Vote to To deny, and uphold the decision of the Director of Planning Services (Approved)
Craig A. Ewing reported this decision may be appealed to the City Council. The appellant, Dr. Levin, will be notified of the decision.
5. Case 5.1050 PD 312 - An application to amend a previously approved Planned
Development District 312 (Smoke Tree Commons) for the deletion of a driveway access
connecting the Smoke Tree Commons to the Coco’s establishment located on the
southwest corner of East Palm Canyon Drive and Farrell Drive/Barona Road.
(Prohect Planner: Edward O. Robertson, Principal Planner)
Edward Robertson, Principal Planner, provided background information as outlined in the staff report dated May 9, 2007. Mr. Robertson stated this amendment would delete a driveway access connecting to the proposed shopping center to the Coco’s establishment on the southeasterly portion of the site.
Vice Chair Hochanadel requested staff address the fire department’s access to the site. Mr. Robertson responded that the fire department has reviewed this request and has no problem with the access to the site.
Motion to To approve, draft resolution. Moved by Vice Chair Hochanadel, seconded by Cohen.
Vote to To approve, draft resolution. (Approved)
PUBLIC HEARINGS:
6. Case 3.3018 MAJ / TPM 35235 - An application by George Acres on behalf of Centers
Dynamic for the construction of a 14,000 square foot box store with adjacent 13,600
square foot in-line retail stores in the existing Palm Springs Market Place Shopping Center
and the subdivision of approximately 6.24 acres into three parcels with parking and
associated landscaping located at the southeast corner of East Vista Chino Road and
North Sunrise Way, Zone P with PD-227, Section 12. APN: 507-301-024.
(Project Planner: Fred Lowndes, Associate Planner)
Fred Lowndes, Associate Planner, provided background information as outlined in the staff report dated May 9, 2007.
Vice Chair Hochanadel requested staff address if the existing retention basin located across the street is adequate to handle the extra usage. Staff responded yes it is equipped to handle the extra usage.
Chair Marantz opened the Public Hearing:
-Ed Dietrich, Palm Springs, requested more time be allowed for noticing of the meeting and voiced concern with the extension of the road, traffic flow and the noise problem.
-Bruck Droughton, Palm Springs, concern with the proposed road for the delivery trucks and increased noise to the nearby homes.
-Allen Sanborn, architect & engineer for the project, provided further details pertaining to the original site plan and the entry access point for large delivery trucks and the loading zone.
-George Arce, owner & developer Phase II, thanked the Commission and staff for their hard work and is looking forward to the development.
There being no further comments, the Public Hearing was closed.
Commissioner Hutcheson requested engineering staff address any traffic calming devices installed on Cerritos and Chia Road. Mr. Fuller responded traffic speed bumps have been installed on Cerritos Road and further stated that both of these streets are collector roads (designed to connect neighboring roads to major roads).
Vice Chair Hochanadel noted this project is an enhancement for this area because this site is used as a dumping ground.
Motion to To recommend approval to the City Council, subject to Conditions of Approval. Moved by Vice Chair Hochanadel, seconded by Ringlein.
Vote to To recommend approval to the City Council, subject to Conditions of Approval. (Approved)
NOTE: The Planning Commission considered a request by The Loftin Firm for a continuation of this item to the meeting of June 13, 2007. The Planning Commission decided to proceed and hear the case.
7. Case TTM 34627 - An application by The Loftin Firm on behalf of the owners to subdivide
the existing 184 space rental mobile home park, Palm Springs View Estates Mobile Home
Park, for condominium purposes. The site is an approximate 25.9-acre tract and is located
at 6300 Bolero Drive, Zoned R-MHP, Section 29, APN’s: 681-310-018, 681-270-003, and
007. (Project Planner: Fred Lowndes, Associate Planner)
Fred Lowndes, Associate Planner, provided background information as outlined in the staff report dated May 9, 2007. He reported this case was continued from the April 11th meeting to allow the applicant time to furnish an updated Tenant Impact Report (TIR) and have the City Attorney present at this meeting.
Vice Chair Hochanadel requested staff address the state’s jursidiction and the Commission’s role in reviewing this project. Mr. Lowndes responded the Commission’s role is to identify all the criteria has been met. He indicated the fire conditions have been satisfied by the fire department, however, the easement concern has not been addressed.
Chair Marantz opened the Public Hearing.
-Jon Rodrigue, The Loftin Firm representing the applicant, stated the concerns with the flow and pressure of the fire hydrant and access to the rear gate have been resolved. Mr. Rodrigue provided further details relating to location of the easement and the Tenant Impact Report.
-Dick Matthews, Palm Springs, stated a discrepancy with the distance of the fire hydrant and
requested further study of the rental program.
-Bob Slagle, Palm Springs, addressed concerns with the Tenant Impact Report.
-Judy Farrell, Palm Springs, voiced concerns with economic displacement of the tenants.
-Arlene Battishill, Palm Springs, addressed concern for more renters protection especially tenants on fixed-incomes.
-Harold Baumea, Palm Springs, stated a discrepancy with the street names on the map and problems with sewer back-up and the sidewalk widths.
-Eddie Scott, Palm Springs, stated a concern with the sidewalk widths, sewer problems and the economic displacement of the tenants.
-Jon Rodrigue, applicant rebuttal, addressed the conversion process, the opportunity to purchase and inspections conducted by the state on the infrastructure of the mobile home park.
-Jean Stevens, Palm Springs, addressed re-zoning of the mobile home park and a problem with home loans for low income residents.
-Tom Bennett,Palm Springs, voiced concern for more protection of the elders.
There being no further comments, the Public Hearing was closed.
Vice Chair Hochanadel requested clarification on the process of the sewer survey. Mr. Rodrigue responded the sewer survey is currently under process and the cost is $50,000.
Marcus Fuller, Assistant Director of Public Works, summarized staff’s decision to recommend denial, based on the Tenant Impact Report (TIR) submitted last year, it does not identify any impacts, it should include 1/2 of the mobile home park is within a flood zone, emergency access is prevented and the road is not on an easement of record.
Vice Chair Hochanadel requested staff address city liability. Staff responded that currently the mobile home park is under state control and once converted into resident ownership it is under local control.
Commissioner Hutcheson stated he felt Mr. Fuller summarized it well and there are too many unanswered questions. He made a motion to deny the project.
Motion to To recommend denial to the City Council. Moved by Hutcheson, seconded by Ringlein.
Vote to To recommend denial to the City Council. (Approved)
A recess was taken at 3:25 p.m.
The meeting resumed at 3:36 p.m.
8. Case 5.1152 - To consider the Draft 2007 Comprehensive Update of the Palm
Springs General Plan and related Draft Environmental Impact Report. (Project Planner:
Ken Lyon, Associate Planner)
Ken Lyon, Associate Planner, provided details pertaining to the staff report supplement #2 dated May 9, 2007. He noted additional comments were received from the public after the publication date that will be addressed in a subsequent supplement.
Bill Halligan, Environmental Consultant with the Planning Center, introduced himself and stated they are the consulting firm hired by the City to prepare the General Plan Environmental Impact Report.
Jaime Thomas, Project Manager, provided details on the environmental review process.
Chair Marantz re-opened the Public Hearing.
-Marvin Roos, MSA Consulting, requested a policy to restrict the height of landscaping and addressed the street connection on Racquet Club and Tramway Road indicating it would be disruptive to the neighborhood and recommended deletion.
-Fred Bell, Building Industry Associations,stated they have received numerous concerns that have not been addressed and a final set of comments will be submitted.
-John Wessman, Palm Springs, spoke in opposition of the connection between Tramway Road and Racquet Club.
-Arlene Blattishill, Palm Springs, voiced concern with the General Plan stating it appears to be more retrospective than proactive and requested an exhibit displaying approved developments, which have not been built to get an idea of the potential traffic problems.
There being no further comments, the Public Hearing was closed.
Commissioner Ringlein suggested when planned developments are used to allow an increase in density there should be a proportionate public benefit. The visual computer presentation should be a required part of the planned development application process.
The Commission and staff discussed the extension of Chia Road, the Circulation Element and the importance of preserving the multiple ways to circulate within the City. Commissioner Hutcheson noted his preference not to include the Chia Road extension in the General Plan. Chair Marantz noted her concern with closing-off streets and future development. Commissioner Ringlein commented that she did not have a problem with the Chia Road extension.
Commissioner Hutcheson requested staff address the mixed-use designation, the prohibition of planned development districts in the Downtown Urban Design Guidelines, to approach Caltrans for possible funding of scenic corridors, encourage the use golf carts and/or electric vehicles, strengthen goals to encourage more green and renewable energy and to preserve affordable housing in regard to mobile home parks.
The Commission discussed traffic concerns at the intersection of Alejo and Indian Canyon.
The item has been continued to the meeting of May 16, 2007.
9. COMMISSION WORK PROGRAM: *Work Program Priorities and Subcommittee Assignments
10. CITY COUNCIL ACTIONS: Update.
11. COMMISSION/STAFF REPORTS AND REQUESTS:
The Commission discussed the process of formatting the final copy of the draft General Plan.
12. ADJOURNMENT:
There being no further comments, the meeting adjourned at 4:55 p.m.
May 09, 2007 Planning Commission
Full agenda
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CALL TO ORDER:
The meeting was called to order at 1:38 p.m.
ROLL CALL:
Roll Call: 5 members present, 2 members absent, 0 members excused.
REPORT OF POSTING OF AGENDA:
The agenda was available for public access at the City Hall exterior bulletin board (west side of Council Chamber) and the Planning Services counter by 5:00 p.m. on Friday, May 4, 2007.
NOTE:
Chair Marantz announced a request for a continuance was made for the following items:
Item #4, Case 5.1093 CUP - An appeal by Ken Levin; and
Item #7, Case TTM 34627, Palm Springs View Estates Mobile Home Park
The Planning Commission proceeded to hear Public Comments prior to making a decision on the aforementioned requests.
1. PUBLIC COMMENTS: (Three minute time limit.)
Chair Marantz opened the Public Comments.
-Cal Hackler, Palm Springs, spoke in opposition of Item 7 and requested this poject be heard today.
-Steve Ohren, owner of the Colony Palms Hotel, requested Item 4 be heard today.
-Dick Matthews, Palm Springs, spoke in opposition of Item 7 and requested this item be heard today.
-David Chavarria, Palm Springs, spoke in opposition of Item 6, concerned with increased traffic flow and the high wall.
-Arlene Battishill,Palm Springs, voiced concern for traffic calming measures approved for the Spanish Inn in September 2005; none of which have been installed as of this date.
-Leon Abelon, Palm Springs, spoke in opposition of Item 7, concerned with the deterioration of the infrastructure.
There being no further comments, Public Comments was closed.
Commissioner Hutcheson stated he felt since staff has all the required information to make a recommendation for Item 7, his preference is not to continue this item. The Commission discussed the both requests for continuance and the consensus of the Commission was to hear Items 4 and 7.
CONSENT AGENDA:
Chair Marantz noted her abstention on Item 2B.
Motion to To approve, Items 2A and 2B, as part of the Consent Agenda. Moved by Hutcheson, seconded by Vice Chair Hochanadel.
Vote to To approve, Items 2A and 2B, as part of the Consent Agenda. (Approved)
2A. Case TTM 32263 - An application by Jeffrey Parker on behalf of RSM Arbours, LP, requesting a one-year time extension to subdivide one building into nine office condominiums located at 1301 Montalvo Way, Zone M-1-P, Section 7, APN: 677-461-002 and 003. (Project Planner: Bryan Fernandez, Assistant Planner).
2B. Case 3.3033 MAJ / 3.3034 MAJ - An application by Mario Berardi on behalf of Bera West Enterprises to construct two 5,000 square foot warehouse buildings located at 245 Radio Road and 265 Radio Road, Zone M-1, Section 34, APN: 669-444-002 and 003. (Project Planner: Bryan Fernandez, Assistant Planner)
ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW:
3. Case 5.1052 - PD 313 / TTM 33334 - An application by Michael Mueller for the Palm
Springs Racquet Club Properties, LLC, requesting approval for the Final Development
plans for previously approved PDD 313, a mixed-use development consisting of a new 55-
unit condominium complex, restaurant and a convenience store located at 2743 North
Indian Canyon Drive, Zone PD 313, Section 3. (Project Planner; Edward O. Robertson,
Principal Planner)
Chair Marantz noted her abstention. Commissioner Hutcheson noted his abstention. There is no quorum for this item therefore this case will be rescheduled to a later date.
OTHER BUSINESS:
NOTE: The Planning Commission considered during Public Comments the appellant’s
request for a continuation of this item. The Planning Commission decided to
proceed and hear the appeal.
4. Case 5.1093 CUP - An appeal by Ken Levin of a decision by the Director of Planning
Services for the parking and curb plan approved on April 13, 2007, for the Colony Palms
Hotel located at 572 North Indian Canyon Way.
Craig A. Ewing, Director of Planning Services, provided background information as outlined in the staff report dated May 9, 2007. He stated staff granted the reduction to accommodate the relocation of the parking spaces as a consequence of a court order reducing the five foot separation to 2 1/2 feet.
Commissioner Hutcheson requested the owner of Colony Palms address any impact which may be caused as a result of a delay to allow the appellant more time. Steven Ohren stated they are working hard at completing the balance of work to open the hotel. He stated the area in question is a small section consisting of only about six parking spaces. He requested this item be heard today since he cancelled a trip to New York to be present.
Further discussion was made pertaining to the buildings under construction and the delay if this item is continued.
Motion to To deny, and uphold the decision of the Director of Planning Services Moved by Hutcheson, seconded by Vice Chair Hochanadel.
Vote to To deny, and uphold the decision of the Director of Planning Services (Approved)
Craig A. Ewing reported this decision may be appealed to the City Council. The appellant, Dr. Levin, will be notified of the decision.
5. Case 5.1050 PD 312 - An application to amend a previously approved Planned
Development District 312 (Smoke Tree Commons) for the deletion of a driveway access
connecting the Smoke Tree Commons to the Coco’s establishment located on the
southwest corner of East Palm Canyon Drive and Farrell Drive/Barona Road.
(Prohect Planner: Edward O. Robertson, Principal Planner)
Edward Robertson, Principal Planner, provided background information as outlined in the staff report dated May 9, 2007. Mr. Robertson stated this amendment would delete a driveway access connecting to the proposed shopping center to the Coco’s establishment on the southeasterly portion of the site.
Vice Chair Hochanadel requested staff address the fire department’s access to the site. Mr. Robertson responded that the fire department has reviewed this request and has no problem with the access to the site.
Motion to To approve, draft resolution. Moved by Vice Chair Hochanadel, seconded by Cohen.
Vote to To approve, draft resolution. (Approved)
PUBLIC HEARINGS:
6. Case 3.3018 MAJ / TPM 35235 - An application by George Acres on behalf of Centers
Dynamic for the construction of a 14,000 square foot box store with adjacent 13,600
square foot in-line retail stores in the existing Palm Springs Market Place Shopping Center
and the subdivision of approximately 6.24 acres into three parcels with parking and
associated landscaping located at the southeast corner of East Vista Chino Road and
North Sunrise Way, Zone P with PD-227, Section 12. APN: 507-301-024.
(Project Planner: Fred Lowndes, Associate Planner)
Fred Lowndes, Associate Planner, provided background information as outlined in the staff report dated May 9, 2007.
Vice Chair Hochanadel requested staff address if the existing retention basin located across the street is adequate to handle the extra usage. Staff responded yes it is equipped to handle the extra usage.
Chair Marantz opened the Public Hearing:
-Ed Dietrich, Palm Springs, requested more time be allowed for noticing of the meeting and voiced concern with the extension of the road, traffic flow and the noise problem.
-Bruck Droughton, Palm Springs, concern with the proposed road for the delivery trucks and increased noise to the nearby homes.
-Allen Sanborn, architect & engineer for the project, provided further details pertaining to the original site plan and the entry access point for large delivery trucks and the loading zone.
-George Arce, owner & developer Phase II, thanked the Commission and staff for their hard work and is looking forward to the development.
There being no further comments, the Public Hearing was closed.
Commissioner Hutcheson requested engineering staff address any traffic calming devices installed on Cerritos and Chia Road. Mr. Fuller responded traffic speed bumps have been installed on Cerritos Road and further stated that both of these streets are collector roads (designed to connect neighboring roads to major roads).
Vice Chair Hochanadel noted this project is an enhancement for this area because this site is used as a dumping ground.
Motion to To recommend approval to the City Council, subject to Conditions of Approval. Moved by Vice Chair Hochanadel, seconded by Ringlein.
Vote to To recommend approval to the City Council, subject to Conditions of Approval. (Approved)
NOTE: The Planning Commission considered a request by The Loftin Firm for a continuation of this item to the meeting of June 13, 2007. The Planning Commission decided to proceed and hear the case.
7. Case TTM 34627 - An application by The Loftin Firm on behalf of the owners to subdivide
the existing 184 space rental mobile home park, Palm Springs View Estates Mobile Home
Park, for condominium purposes. The site is an approximate 25.9-acre tract and is located
at 6300 Bolero Drive, Zoned R-MHP, Section 29, APN’s: 681-310-018, 681-270-003, and
007. (Project Planner: Fred Lowndes, Associate Planner)
Fred Lowndes, Associate Planner, provided background information as outlined in the staff report dated May 9, 2007. He reported this case was continued from the April 11th meeting to allow the applicant time to furnish an updated Tenant Impact Report (TIR) and have the City Attorney present at this meeting.
Vice Chair Hochanadel requested staff address the state’s jursidiction and the Commission’s role in reviewing this project. Mr. Lowndes responded the Commission’s role is to identify all the criteria has been met. He indicated the fire conditions have been satisfied by the fire department, however, the easement concern has not been addressed.
Chair Marantz opened the Public Hearing.
-Jon Rodrigue, The Loftin Firm representing the applicant, stated the concerns with the flow and pressure of the fire hydrant and access to the rear gate have been resolved. Mr. Rodrigue provided further details relating to location of the easement and the Tenant Impact Report.
-Dick Matthews, Palm Springs, stated a discrepancy with the distance of the fire hydrant and
requested further study of the rental program.
-Bob Slagle, Palm Springs, addressed concerns with the Tenant Impact Report.
-Judy Farrell, Palm Springs, voiced concerns with economic displacement of the tenants.
-Arlene Battishill, Palm Springs, addressed concern for more renters protection especially tenants on fixed-incomes.
-Harold Baumea, Palm Springs, stated a discrepancy with the street names on the map and problems with sewer back-up and the sidewalk widths.
-Eddie Scott, Palm Springs, stated a concern with the sidewalk widths, sewer problems and the economic displacement of the tenants.
-Jon Rodrigue, applicant rebuttal, addressed the conversion process, the opportunity to purchase and inspections conducted by the state on the infrastructure of the mobile home park.
-Jean Stevens, Palm Springs, addressed re-zoning of the mobile home park and a problem with home loans for low income residents.
-Tom Bennett,Palm Springs, voiced concern for more protection of the elders.
There being no further comments, the Public Hearing was closed.
Vice Chair Hochanadel requested clarification on the process of the sewer survey. Mr. Rodrigue responded the sewer survey is currently under process and the cost is $50,000.
Marcus Fuller, Assistant Director of Public Works, summarized staff’s decision to recommend denial, based on the Tenant Impact Report (TIR) submitted last year, it does not identify any impacts, it should include 1/2 of the mobile home park is within a flood zone, emergency access is prevented and the road is not on an easement of record.
Vice Chair Hochanadel requested staff address city liability. Staff responded that currently the mobile home park is under state control and once converted into resident ownership it is under local control.
Commissioner Hutcheson stated he felt Mr. Fuller summarized it well and there are too many unanswered questions. He made a motion to deny the project.
Motion to To recommend denial to the City Council. Moved by Hutcheson, seconded by Ringlein.
Vote to To recommend denial to the City Council. (Approved)
A recess was taken at 3:25 p.m.
The meeting resumed at 3:36 p.m.
8. Case 5.1152 - To consider the Draft 2007 Comprehensive Update of the Palm
Springs General Plan and related Draft Environmental Impact Report. (Project Planner:
Ken Lyon, Associate Planner)
Ken Lyon, Associate Planner, provided details pertaining to the staff report supplement #2 dated May 9, 2007. He noted additional comments were received from the public after the publication date that will be addressed in a subsequent supplement.
Bill Halligan, Environmental Consultant with the Planning Center, introduced himself and stated they are the consulting firm hired by the City to prepare the General Plan Environmental Impact Report.
Jaime Thomas, Project Manager, provided details on the environmental review process.
Chair Marantz re-opened the Public Hearing.
-Marvin Roos, MSA Consulting, requested a policy to restrict the height of landscaping and addressed the street connection on Racquet Club and Tramway Road indicating it would be disruptive to the neighborhood and recommended deletion.
-Fred Bell, Building Industry Associations,stated they have received numerous concerns that have not been addressed and a final set of comments will be submitted.
-John Wessman, Palm Springs, spoke in opposition of the connection between Tramway Road and Racquet Club.
-Arlene Blattishill, Palm Springs, voiced concern with the General Plan stating it appears to be more retrospective than proactive and requested an exhibit displaying approved developments, which have not been built to get an idea of the potential traffic problems.
There being no further comments, the Public Hearing was closed.
Commissioner Ringlein suggested when planned developments are used to allow an increase in density there should be a proportionate public benefit. The visual computer presentation should be a required part of the planned development application process.
The Commission and staff discussed the extension of Chia Road, the Circulation Element and the importance of preserving the multiple ways to circulate within the City. Commissioner Hutcheson noted his preference not to include the Chia Road extension in the General Plan. Chair Marantz noted her concern with closing-off streets and future development. Commissioner Ringlein commented that she did not have a problem with the Chia Road extension.
Commissioner Hutcheson requested staff address the mixed-use designation, the prohibition of planned development districts in the Downtown Urban Design Guidelines, to approach Caltrans for possible funding of scenic corridors, encourage the use golf carts and/or electric vehicles, strengthen goals to encourage more green and renewable energy and to preserve affordable housing in regard to mobile home parks.
The Commission discussed traffic concerns at the intersection of Alejo and Indian Canyon.
The item has been continued to the meeting of May 16, 2007.
9. COMMISSION WORK PROGRAM: *Work Program Priorities and Subcommittee Assignments
10. CITY COUNCIL ACTIONS: Update.
11. COMMISSION/STAFF REPORTS AND REQUESTS:
The Commission discussed the process of formatting the final copy of the draft General Plan.
12. ADJOURNMENT:
There being no further comments, the meeting adjourned at 4:55 p.m.
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