Video index
CALL TO ORDER:
Chair Donenfeld called the meeting to order at 1:30 p.m.
ROLL CALL:
Roll Call: 6 members present, 0 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 4:00 p.m. on Thursday, February 16, 2012.
ACCEPTANCE OF THE AGENDA:
Commissioner Conrad requested Item 1B pulled from the Consent Calendar for separate discussion.
The agenda was accepted, as amended.
PUBLIC COMMENTS:
Chair Donenfeld opened public comments:
-Frank Tysen, commented on the Rite Aid sign program amendment that was approved at the last meeting.
Jim Cross, Best Signs, requested modification of the existing urgent care signage to allow greater visibility from the street.
-John Joyce, spoke in reference to Item 3A, suggested drafting of an ordinance to require the establishment sell biodregradable plastic containers to help clean up the environment.
-Charlie Nadar, spoke in reference to Item 2B, expressed concern with the excessive landscape night lighting.
-Brian Yaklich, spoke in reference to Item 3A, commented on the proposed project having a negative impact on the Tahquitz Creek.
-Carl Enser, representing Einsenhower Health Center, chief administrative officer, addressed Item 2B, requested consideration of sign program amendment to provide more building visibility and explained that the increased lighting was installed to deter loitering in the area.
-Kathy Adams, The Canyons HOA, president, spoke in reference to Item 3A, expressed concern with the existing chaos caused by vagrancy loitering and the AA meetings held in the adjacent building.
There being no further appearances public comments was closed.
1. CONSENT CALENDAR:
1A. Minutes of February 8, 2012.
Motion to To approve, minutes of February 8, 2012. Moved by Tracy Conrad, seconded by J.R. Roberts.
Vote to To approve, minutes of February 8, 2012. (Approved)
1B. Case 3.3531 SFR - An application by James and Lorrie Etchason to construct a roughly 3,398 square foot single family residence on a 19,602 square foot lot at 1451 Bogert Trail, Zone R-1-B, Section 35. (Project Planner: Ken Lyon, Associate Planner)
Commissioner Conrad requested deletion of the wording "off-white" color in Planning Condition #3.
The Commission commented and/or discussed establishing design review guidelines for single-family homes and directed staff to bring back this topic to the Commission as a study session item for further review.
Motion to To approve Case 3.3531 SFR, subject to Conditions of Approval, as amended:
-To delete "off-white" from PLN 3. Moved by J.R. Roberts, seconded by Leslie Munger.
Vote to To approve Case 3.3531 SFR, subject to Conditions of Approval, as amended:
-To delete "off-white" from PLN 3. (Approved)
2. OTHER BUSINESS:
2A. Case SP 06-084 AMEND - An application by Lundin Development Co. for an amendment to a previously approved sign program to allow tenant identification signs on the existing monument signs for the Ralph’s CVS Pharmacy shopping center located at 425 South Sunrise Way, Zone NC (Section 14 Master Plan). (Project Planner: David A. Newell, Associate Planner)
David A. Newell, Associate Planner, provided background information as outlined in the staff report dated February 22, 2012.
Commissioner Munger clarified noted vehicular congestion at the ingress/egress at Sunrise Way and Ramon Road and suggested the way-finding signs are to be placed in the appropriate location not in this hazardous area.
Commissioner Conrad recalled when the original sign program was heard for this shopping center and provided background history on the issues with the signage. Ms. Conrad noted that she could not support the request to add tenant identification signs.
Commissioner Roberts spoke in favor of allowing the tenant identification signs; noting the benefit to the public and building tenants by increasing visibility of the businesses.
Commissioner Klatchko concurred with Commissioner Conrad; he recalled that the original sign program was controversial and expressed difficulty making the findings to deviate from the sign program.
Motion to To deny Case SP 06-084 AMEND. Moved by Tracy Conrad, seconded by Philip Klatchko.
Director Ewing reminded the Commission to take into consideration that their primary involvement is size and placement of the sign; color and font are protected commercial speech
Vote to To deny Case SP 06-084 AMEND. (Approved)
2B. Case SP 10-006 AMEND - An application by Best Signs, Inc. on behalf of Eisenhower Health Center for an amendment to the existing sign program to allow modifications to existing signage for the medical office at the commercial complex located at the southwest corner of Sunrise Way and Tahquitz Canyon Way, Zone RA (Section 14 Master Plan). (Project Planner: David A. Newell, Associate Planner)
David A. Newell, Associate Planner, provided background information as outlined in the staff report dated February 22, 2012.
Vice Chair Hudson spoke in support of the AAC’s recommendations but also supported the applicant’s desire to retain the existing north facing sign.
Motion to To approve Case SP 10-006 AMEND, subject to Conditions of Approval, as per the AAC’s recommendations with the following conditions:
-Allow Option A (retain existing main sign on the north elevation);
-Curved wall to be reduced to a height of 3’ 8" and to be located outside the corner cutback;
-Sign on wall to be reduced proportionally;
- Moved by Vice Chair Hudson, seconded by Chair Donenfeld.
Vote to To approve Case SP 10-006 AMEND, subject to Conditions of Approval, as per the AAC’s recommendations with the following conditions:
-Allow Option A (retain existing main sign on the north elevation);
-Curved wall to be reduced to a height of 3’ 8" and to be located outside the corner cutback;
-Sign on wall to be reduced proportionally;
- (Approved)
3. PUBLIC HEARING:
3A. Case 5.1269 CUP - An application by Lend Lease representing 7-Eleven for a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) to operate a 24-hour convenience store use at 611 South Palm Canyon Drive, Zone PD-77, Section 22. (Project Planner: David A. Newell, Associate Planner)
Commissioner Munger clarified that she is a board member of the DENO neighborhood organization; however, she noted that she lives outside radius and has no conflict of interest in the project.
David A. Newell, Associate Planner, provided background as outlined in the staff report dated February 22, 2012.
Commissioner Klatchko noted for the record that electronic correspondence was sent directly to the Commission from the Tahquitz Creek Yaht Club and not routed through a member of staff.
Chair Donenfeld opened the public hearing:
The following persons spoke in favor of the proposed project:
-Jennifer Gunther, representing the applicant, provided an update on the proposed changes to the CUP. Ms. Gunther summarized the voluntary conditions submitted by the applicant to address the concerns relating to signage, lighting and security.
-David Sabin, 7-Eleven representative, commented on 7-Eleven’s value to the community by providing stable, long term leases and contributing to the economic growth of the City.
-Eli Mashiach, landlord representative and leasing manager, spoke about the recent and upcoming vacancies to the shopping center; noting their positive experience with 7-Eleven stores in other cities due to their strict measures in place.
-Molly Thorpe, teacher and mentor for Palm Springs Marathon Runners Progam, provided an overview of 7- Eleven’s willigness to donate and support the team activities and participate in community events.
-Paul Crippan, TRENO, chair, spoke in support of the 7-Eleven store, noting the convenience of a store in the area and will provide opportunities for the Sun Center and generate taxes for the city.
-Jennifer Gunther, applicant rebuttal, addressed monitoring of trash, security cameras, exterior lighting improvements and limitation of alcohol sales.
The following persons spoke in opposition of the proposed project:
-Sheryl Hamlin, expressed concern with enforcement of the security conditions and the increase of the homeless population and trash to the area.
-Bill Post, commented that the Police department does not have the manpower to maintain law and order at this site due to their budget cuts.
-Joan Martin, member of the Tahquitz Creek Yacht Club, expressed concern with the on-going problems of maintaining this area clean due to the adjacent fast food restaurants, homeless encampments and parking issues.
-Robert Stone, Warm Sands Neighborhood Organization, chair, provided an overview of the crime statistics for the neighborhood.
-Bruce Douglas, commented on the high number of fast food restaurants and trash in the area.
-Melanie Mainline, noted the existing stores in the area and the parking and intersection problems.
-Frank Tysen, Historic Tennis Club Neighborhood Association, chair, reported that the board unaminmously voted in opposition of the 7-Eleven store.
There being no further appearances the public hearing was closed.
Commissioner Conrad spoke in opposition of the location for the proposed 7-Eleven store.
Commissioner Roberts commended the project team on their efforts with the proposed project and neighborhood; however, he stated that the majority of adjacent neighborhoods are not in favor of the location.
Motion to To direct staff to prepare a resolution of denial based on the appropriate findings. Moved by Tracy Conrad, seconded by Vice Chair Hudson.
Vote to To direct staff to prepare a resolution of denial based on the appropriate findings. (Approved)
PLANNING COMMISSION COMMENTS:
Commissioner Munger requested that should the PC decision be appealed to the City Council staff add condition requiring a security guard on the premises for a 12-hour period during the evening hours in case problems arise.
Commissioner Munger and Chair Donenfeld requested a police representative be available when projects involving alcohol use come before the Commission.
Commissioner Klatchko requested staff address if any quarterly meetings with the City Council will be held this year. Director Ewing responded that this item will be added to the agenda to allow the Commissioners to address their concerns to the City Council.
PLANNING DIRECTOR’S REPORT:
Director Ewing reported that the appeal period for the 7-Eleven will not begin until the resolution of denial is approved at the next meeting.
ADJOURNMENT:
There being no further comments the planning Commission adjourned at 3:25 p.m. to Wednesday, March 14, 2012 at 1:30 p.m., City Hall, Council Chamber, 3200 East Tahquitz Canyon Way.
Feb 22, 2012 Planning Commission
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CALL TO ORDER:
Chair Donenfeld called the meeting to order at 1:30 p.m.
ROLL CALL:
Roll Call: 6 members present, 0 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 4:00 p.m. on Thursday, February 16, 2012.
ACCEPTANCE OF THE AGENDA:
Commissioner Conrad requested Item 1B pulled from the Consent Calendar for separate discussion.
The agenda was accepted, as amended.
PUBLIC COMMENTS:
Chair Donenfeld opened public comments:
-Frank Tysen, commented on the Rite Aid sign program amendment that was approved at the last meeting.
Jim Cross, Best Signs, requested modification of the existing urgent care signage to allow greater visibility from the street.
-John Joyce, spoke in reference to Item 3A, suggested drafting of an ordinance to require the establishment sell biodregradable plastic containers to help clean up the environment.
-Charlie Nadar, spoke in reference to Item 2B, expressed concern with the excessive landscape night lighting.
-Brian Yaklich, spoke in reference to Item 3A, commented on the proposed project having a negative impact on the Tahquitz Creek.
-Carl Enser, representing Einsenhower Health Center, chief administrative officer, addressed Item 2B, requested consideration of sign program amendment to provide more building visibility and explained that the increased lighting was installed to deter loitering in the area.
-Kathy Adams, The Canyons HOA, president, spoke in reference to Item 3A, expressed concern with the existing chaos caused by vagrancy loitering and the AA meetings held in the adjacent building.
There being no further appearances public comments was closed.
1. CONSENT CALENDAR:
1A. Minutes of February 8, 2012.
Motion to To approve, minutes of February 8, 2012. Moved by Tracy Conrad, seconded by J.R. Roberts.
Vote to To approve, minutes of February 8, 2012. (Approved)
1B. Case 3.3531 SFR - An application by James and Lorrie Etchason to construct a roughly 3,398 square foot single family residence on a 19,602 square foot lot at 1451 Bogert Trail, Zone R-1-B, Section 35. (Project Planner: Ken Lyon, Associate Planner)
Commissioner Conrad requested deletion of the wording "off-white" color in Planning Condition #3.
The Commission commented and/or discussed establishing design review guidelines for single-family homes and directed staff to bring back this topic to the Commission as a study session item for further review.
Motion to To approve Case 3.3531 SFR, subject to Conditions of Approval, as amended:
-To delete "off-white" from PLN 3. Moved by J.R. Roberts, seconded by Leslie Munger.
Vote to To approve Case 3.3531 SFR, subject to Conditions of Approval, as amended:
-To delete "off-white" from PLN 3. (Approved)
2. OTHER BUSINESS:
2A. Case SP 06-084 AMEND - An application by Lundin Development Co. for an amendment to a previously approved sign program to allow tenant identification signs on the existing monument signs for the Ralph’s CVS Pharmacy shopping center located at 425 South Sunrise Way, Zone NC (Section 14 Master Plan). (Project Planner: David A. Newell, Associate Planner)
David A. Newell, Associate Planner, provided background information as outlined in the staff report dated February 22, 2012.
Commissioner Munger clarified noted vehicular congestion at the ingress/egress at Sunrise Way and Ramon Road and suggested the way-finding signs are to be placed in the appropriate location not in this hazardous area.
Commissioner Conrad recalled when the original sign program was heard for this shopping center and provided background history on the issues with the signage. Ms. Conrad noted that she could not support the request to add tenant identification signs.
Commissioner Roberts spoke in favor of allowing the tenant identification signs; noting the benefit to the public and building tenants by increasing visibility of the businesses.
Commissioner Klatchko concurred with Commissioner Conrad; he recalled that the original sign program was controversial and expressed difficulty making the findings to deviate from the sign program.
Motion to To deny Case SP 06-084 AMEND. Moved by Tracy Conrad, seconded by Philip Klatchko.
Director Ewing reminded the Commission to take into consideration that their primary involvement is size and placement of the sign; color and font are protected commercial speech
Vote to To deny Case SP 06-084 AMEND. (Approved)
2B. Case SP 10-006 AMEND - An application by Best Signs, Inc. on behalf of Eisenhower Health Center for an amendment to the existing sign program to allow modifications to existing signage for the medical office at the commercial complex located at the southwest corner of Sunrise Way and Tahquitz Canyon Way, Zone RA (Section 14 Master Plan). (Project Planner: David A. Newell, Associate Planner)
David A. Newell, Associate Planner, provided background information as outlined in the staff report dated February 22, 2012.
Vice Chair Hudson spoke in support of the AAC’s recommendations but also supported the applicant’s desire to retain the existing north facing sign.
Motion to To approve Case SP 10-006 AMEND, subject to Conditions of Approval, as per the AAC’s recommendations with the following conditions:
-Allow Option A (retain existing main sign on the north elevation);
-Curved wall to be reduced to a height of 3’ 8" and to be located outside the corner cutback;
-Sign on wall to be reduced proportionally;
- Moved by Vice Chair Hudson, seconded by Chair Donenfeld.
Vote to To approve Case SP 10-006 AMEND, subject to Conditions of Approval, as per the AAC’s recommendations with the following conditions:
-Allow Option A (retain existing main sign on the north elevation);
-Curved wall to be reduced to a height of 3’ 8" and to be located outside the corner cutback;
-Sign on wall to be reduced proportionally;
- (Approved)
3. PUBLIC HEARING:
3A. Case 5.1269 CUP - An application by Lend Lease representing 7-Eleven for a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) to operate a 24-hour convenience store use at 611 South Palm Canyon Drive, Zone PD-77, Section 22. (Project Planner: David A. Newell, Associate Planner)
Commissioner Munger clarified that she is a board member of the DENO neighborhood organization; however, she noted that she lives outside radius and has no conflict of interest in the project.
David A. Newell, Associate Planner, provided background as outlined in the staff report dated February 22, 2012.
Commissioner Klatchko noted for the record that electronic correspondence was sent directly to the Commission from the Tahquitz Creek Yaht Club and not routed through a member of staff.
Chair Donenfeld opened the public hearing:
The following persons spoke in favor of the proposed project:
-Jennifer Gunther, representing the applicant, provided an update on the proposed changes to the CUP. Ms. Gunther summarized the voluntary conditions submitted by the applicant to address the concerns relating to signage, lighting and security.
-David Sabin, 7-Eleven representative, commented on 7-Eleven’s value to the community by providing stable, long term leases and contributing to the economic growth of the City.
-Eli Mashiach, landlord representative and leasing manager, spoke about the recent and upcoming vacancies to the shopping center; noting their positive experience with 7-Eleven stores in other cities due to their strict measures in place.
-Molly Thorpe, teacher and mentor for Palm Springs Marathon Runners Progam, provided an overview of 7- Eleven’s willigness to donate and support the team activities and participate in community events.
-Paul Crippan, TRENO, chair, spoke in support of the 7-Eleven store, noting the convenience of a store in the area and will provide opportunities for the Sun Center and generate taxes for the city.
-Jennifer Gunther, applicant rebuttal, addressed monitoring of trash, security cameras, exterior lighting improvements and limitation of alcohol sales.
The following persons spoke in opposition of the proposed project:
-Sheryl Hamlin, expressed concern with enforcement of the security conditions and the increase of the homeless population and trash to the area.
-Bill Post, commented that the Police department does not have the manpower to maintain law and order at this site due to their budget cuts.
-Joan Martin, member of the Tahquitz Creek Yacht Club, expressed concern with the on-going problems of maintaining this area clean due to the adjacent fast food restaurants, homeless encampments and parking issues.
-Robert Stone, Warm Sands Neighborhood Organization, chair, provided an overview of the crime statistics for the neighborhood.
-Bruce Douglas, commented on the high number of fast food restaurants and trash in the area.
-Melanie Mainline, noted the existing stores in the area and the parking and intersection problems.
-Frank Tysen, Historic Tennis Club Neighborhood Association, chair, reported that the board unaminmously voted in opposition of the 7-Eleven store.
There being no further appearances the public hearing was closed.
Commissioner Conrad spoke in opposition of the location for the proposed 7-Eleven store.
Commissioner Roberts commended the project team on their efforts with the proposed project and neighborhood; however, he stated that the majority of adjacent neighborhoods are not in favor of the location.
Motion to To direct staff to prepare a resolution of denial based on the appropriate findings. Moved by Tracy Conrad, seconded by Vice Chair Hudson.
Vote to To direct staff to prepare a resolution of denial based on the appropriate findings. (Approved)
PLANNING COMMISSION COMMENTS:
Commissioner Munger requested that should the PC decision be appealed to the City Council staff add condition requiring a security guard on the premises for a 12-hour period during the evening hours in case problems arise.
Commissioner Munger and Chair Donenfeld requested a police representative be available when projects involving alcohol use come before the Commission.
Commissioner Klatchko requested staff address if any quarterly meetings with the City Council will be held this year. Director Ewing responded that this item will be added to the agenda to allow the Commissioners to address their concerns to the City Council.
PLANNING DIRECTOR’S REPORT:
Director Ewing reported that the appeal period for the 7-Eleven will not begin until the resolution of denial is approved at the next meeting.
ADJOURNMENT:
There being no further comments the planning Commission adjourned at 3:25 p.m. to Wednesday, March 14, 2012 at 1:30 p.m., City Hall, Council Chamber, 3200 East Tahquitz Canyon Way.
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