Video index
CALL TO ORDER:
Chair Donenfeld called meeting to order at 1:34 pm.
ROLL CALL:
Roll Call: 7 members present, 0 members absent, 0 members excused.
*Commissioner Weremuik arrived at 1:37 pm.
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 pm on Thursday, February 7, 2013.
ACCEPTANCE OF THE AGENDA:
Chair Donenfeld reported that a request from staff for a continuance on Item 2A, Case 5.1252 GPA/CUP has been received.
The Commission unanimously accepted the agenda, as presented.
(This item was voted on out of order.)
2. PUBLIC HEARING:
2A. Case 5.1252 GPA / CUP - A request by Garnet Solar Power Generation Station 1, LLC, for a General Plan Amendment to allow renewable energy uses within the "D" (Desert) Land Use designation and a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) to construct and operate a 5.0-megawatt solar energy conversion system consisting of 17,000 photovoltaic panels on approximately 39.7 acres of the 134.3-acre site located at 5400 North Indian Canyon Drive, Section 23, Zone W and W-M-1-P. (Project Planner: David A. Newell, Associate Planner)
Motion to Approve To continue to a definite date of March 13, 2013. Moved by Lyn Calerdine, seconded by Leslie Munger.
Vote to Approve To continue to a definite date of March 13, 2013. (Approved)
PUBLIC COMMENTS:
Chair Donenfeld opened public comments:
-Diane Ross, commented against the hotel classification because of insufficient parking.
-Lyn Futterer, would like to see a conditional use permit imposed on the properties.
-Jim King, commented against a rehabilitation facility in the neighborhood.
-Michael Goldman, commented about the support he's received at the sober living home.
-Emily Hubble, commented about the supportive environment at the sober living facility.
-Kirkham Avent, spoke about the support he received from staying at the transition living home.
-Ken Seeley, applicant, clarified that these facilities are not treatment centers; they are a safe place for clients to in.
-Jonaton Rosenblaum, would like to get clarification on the type of use for this facility.
-Les Wheeler, not opposed to the sober living facilty; however, is concerned that this is the proper use for this site.
-Dave Baron, Slovak Baron & Empey LLP, urged the city to create an ordinance for sober living facilities to accommodate the residents.
-Maureen Flannery, legal representation for the applicant, addressed concerns for the proposed sober living facilites.
There being no further appearances public comments was closed.
1. CONSENT CALENDAR:
Motion to To approve, Items 1A and 1B, as part of the Consent Calendar. Moved by Kathy Weremiuk, seconded by Leslie Munger.
Vote to To approve, Items 1A and 1B, as part of the Consent Calendar. (Approved)
1A. Draft minutes of November 14, 2012 and November 28, 2012.
Approved, as presented.
1B. Case 3.3620 MAA - An application by William Nicholson, to construct approximately 884-square foot three-car garage and house repaint on a hillside lot located at 2211 N. Vista Drive, Zone R-1-B, Section 3. (Project Planner: Glenn Mlaker, AICP, Assistant Planner)
Approved, as presented.
3. OTHER BUSINESS:
3A. Case 5.1290/PD-361 / Block C-1 - A preliminary Planned Development District (PDD) project by Wessman Development within Block C of the Museum Market Plaza Specific Plan area for a hotel of approximately 185 rooms and various accessory and ancillary uses, including building height in excess of sixty (60) feet, located at the northwest corner of West Tahquitz Way and North Palm Canyon Drive. (Project Planner: Edward Robertson, Principal Planner)
-John Wessman, applicant, provided an overview of the revisions made to the elevations and building architecture of the hotel. Mr. Wessman described the redesign to the architecture and incorporation of several articulations on all side elevations such as projecting balconies, vertical fins to break the long walls of the hotel.
Vice Chair Hudson expressed appreciation to the Wessman design team for the revisions made to the proposed hotel. He indicated that this is textbook process on what can be done during a public review process to make a project better. It's a example of what an architectural DNA can do to a project where the massing of this building is not that much different but just using application of materials and techniques enriches the project and in what makes Palm Springs so famous for. He encouraged the applicant to apply this architectural DNA to the rest of the project. He commented the landscape architecture is very important such as the benches, street furnitures and fountains. He encouraged the City to utilize Public Arts funding for specific artwork of this size such as a mural, mosiac artwork or a fountain to tie into this project with the architecture.
Commissioner Calerdine commended the design team and requested clarification on the colors of the hotel. He suggested keeping the Marilyn statue on the Tahquitz Canyon Way corner.
Commissioner Munger thanked Mr. Wessman for going the extra mile and spoke in favor of the architectural redesign and particularly liked the turquoise and gold/yellow colors of the building.
Commissioner Roberts said that because of its location this site deserved the best architecture and the Wessman team has brought design excellence. It is a very beautiful piece of architecture. He commented that the proposed colors are perfect and fit the architecture beautifully. The designs and finishes are great and especially likes the water fountain. Mr. Roberts encouraged the public art component to be special and unusual and fit the architecture. He suggested that the design team be included as a part of the landscaping group because of the sensitivity they exhibited towards the design of the building.
Commissioner Weremuik spoke in favor of the revisions to the proposed hotel and commented that the landscaping and public art are a very important part of the project. She noted that since the design team did such a great job that she would prefer that they present the colors of the building.
Chair Donenfeld spoke in favor of the architectural revisions to the proposed hotel and noted that it catches the legacy of the mid-century architectural style of our city but is a very progressive looking building, as well. It will attract all ages and demographics to the City.
Commissioner Roberts disclosed that he had communication with the applicant regarding a rendering of the project.
Vice-Chair Hudson disclosed that he had communication with the applicant regarding his comments on the design.
Chair Donenfeld disclosed that he had a brief conversation with the applicant regarding the layout of the new design.
Commissioner Calerdine disclosed that he had a brief exposure to the initial drawings a few weeks ago.
Motion to To accept the redesign of facade and materials for the hotel of the Palm Springs Downtown project with the following recommendations:
-A stronger emphasis be given to the landscape design.
-A more intregrated attitude about the public art component.
-The design team to propose the colors for the building. Moved by Vice Chair Hudson, seconded by Chair Donenfeld.
Vote to To accept the redesign of facade and materials for the hotel of the Palm Springs Downtown project with the following recommendations:
-A stronger emphasis be given to the landscape design.
-A more intregrated attitude about the public art component.
-The design team to propose the colors for the building. (Approved)
3B. Case 5.1282 / 5.1283 - An Appeal of the Planning Directors Determination that the appellant's proposed uses are not a hotel. For two parcels, 1590 East Palm Canyon Drive and 1425 Via Soledad; Zone R-2 (Project Planner Ken Lyon RA, Associate Planner)
Ken Lyon, Associate Planner, provided background information as outlined in the staff report dated February 13, 2013.
Commissioner Munger disclosed that she lives in the Deepwell Neighborhood and has not participated in any discussions regarding this item.
The Planning Commission discussed the current use for the appellant's two properties.
Jim Webb, Deputy Chief and Fire Marshall, provided clarification on fire code regulations.
Commissioner Munger expressed concern with the insufficient parking for the current uses.
Commissioner Weremuik commented that the current use is not configured as an apartment building or a hotel and many of the issues could be addressed with a conditional use permit.
Commissioner Calerdine noted that the zoning for this type of use needs to be updated and would be voting against the motion.
Motion to To deny the appeal and uphold the Planning Director's decision. Moved by J.R. Roberts, seconded by Kathy Weremiuk.
Vote to To deny the appeal and uphold the Planning Director's decision. (Approved)
Staff reported that this decision may be appealed to the City Council within 10 working days at the City Clerk's office.
PLANNING COMMISSION COMMENTS:
The Commission commented on the following:
*A preference for drawings submitted for the Commission's review on 8 1/2 x 11 instead of the 11 x 17 larger size paper.
*An interest in attending a tour of the DWA facility, as previously discussed.
*Commissioner Munger would not be in attendance for the next two meetings.
*A checklist to include applicants color photos for the Commission's review.
*Electronic copy of exhibits available on the City webpage.
*The meeting of Feb. 27, 2013 will be cancelled.
*A study session will be held on March 6, 2013.
*The status of the AAC vacancies.
*An update on the hiring of the new Planning Director.
PLANNING DIRECTOR'S REPORT:
Chair Donenfeld provided an overview of the tasks associated with Community Development Block Grant program and requested a representative from the Commission to cover the two meetings during his absence. The Commission discussed their availability.
ADJOURNMENT:
There being no further comments the Planning Commission adjourned at 3:37 pm to Wednesday, March 6, 2013, City Hall, Council Chamber, 3200 East Tahquitz Canyon Way.
Feb 13, 2013 Planning Commission
Full agenda
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CALL TO ORDER:
Chair Donenfeld called meeting to order at 1:34 pm.
ROLL CALL:
Roll Call: 7 members present, 0 members absent, 0 members excused.
*Commissioner Weremuik arrived at 1:37 pm.
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 pm on Thursday, February 7, 2013.
ACCEPTANCE OF THE AGENDA:
Chair Donenfeld reported that a request from staff for a continuance on Item 2A, Case 5.1252 GPA/CUP has been received.
The Commission unanimously accepted the agenda, as presented.
(This item was voted on out of order.)
2. PUBLIC HEARING:
2A. Case 5.1252 GPA / CUP - A request by Garnet Solar Power Generation Station 1, LLC, for a General Plan Amendment to allow renewable energy uses within the "D" (Desert) Land Use designation and a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) to construct and operate a 5.0-megawatt solar energy conversion system consisting of 17,000 photovoltaic panels on approximately 39.7 acres of the 134.3-acre site located at 5400 North Indian Canyon Drive, Section 23, Zone W and W-M-1-P. (Project Planner: David A. Newell, Associate Planner)
Motion to Approve To continue to a definite date of March 13, 2013. Moved by Lyn Calerdine, seconded by Leslie Munger.
Vote to Approve To continue to a definite date of March 13, 2013. (Approved)
PUBLIC COMMENTS:
Chair Donenfeld opened public comments:
-Diane Ross, commented against the hotel classification because of insufficient parking.
-Lyn Futterer, would like to see a conditional use permit imposed on the properties.
-Jim King, commented against a rehabilitation facility in the neighborhood.
-Michael Goldman, commented about the support he's received at the sober living home.
-Emily Hubble, commented about the supportive environment at the sober living facility.
-Kirkham Avent, spoke about the support he received from staying at the transition living home.
-Ken Seeley, applicant, clarified that these facilities are not treatment centers; they are a safe place for clients to in.
-Jonaton Rosenblaum, would like to get clarification on the type of use for this facility.
-Les Wheeler, not opposed to the sober living facilty; however, is concerned that this is the proper use for this site.
-Dave Baron, Slovak Baron & Empey LLP, urged the city to create an ordinance for sober living facilities to accommodate the residents.
-Maureen Flannery, legal representation for the applicant, addressed concerns for the proposed sober living facilites.
There being no further appearances public comments was closed.
1. CONSENT CALENDAR:
Motion to To approve, Items 1A and 1B, as part of the Consent Calendar. Moved by Kathy Weremiuk, seconded by Leslie Munger.
Vote to To approve, Items 1A and 1B, as part of the Consent Calendar. (Approved)
1A. Draft minutes of November 14, 2012 and November 28, 2012.
Approved, as presented.
1B. Case 3.3620 MAA - An application by William Nicholson, to construct approximately 884-square foot three-car garage and house repaint on a hillside lot located at 2211 N. Vista Drive, Zone R-1-B, Section 3. (Project Planner: Glenn Mlaker, AICP, Assistant Planner)
Approved, as presented.
3. OTHER BUSINESS:
3A. Case 5.1290/PD-361 / Block C-1 - A preliminary Planned Development District (PDD) project by Wessman Development within Block C of the Museum Market Plaza Specific Plan area for a hotel of approximately 185 rooms and various accessory and ancillary uses, including building height in excess of sixty (60) feet, located at the northwest corner of West Tahquitz Way and North Palm Canyon Drive. (Project Planner: Edward Robertson, Principal Planner)
-John Wessman, applicant, provided an overview of the revisions made to the elevations and building architecture of the hotel. Mr. Wessman described the redesign to the architecture and incorporation of several articulations on all side elevations such as projecting balconies, vertical fins to break the long walls of the hotel.
Vice Chair Hudson expressed appreciation to the Wessman design team for the revisions made to the proposed hotel. He indicated that this is textbook process on what can be done during a public review process to make a project better. It's a example of what an architectural DNA can do to a project where the massing of this building is not that much different but just using application of materials and techniques enriches the project and in what makes Palm Springs so famous for. He encouraged the applicant to apply this architectural DNA to the rest of the project. He commented the landscape architecture is very important such as the benches, street furnitures and fountains. He encouraged the City to utilize Public Arts funding for specific artwork of this size such as a mural, mosiac artwork or a fountain to tie into this project with the architecture.
Commissioner Calerdine commended the design team and requested clarification on the colors of the hotel. He suggested keeping the Marilyn statue on the Tahquitz Canyon Way corner.
Commissioner Munger thanked Mr. Wessman for going the extra mile and spoke in favor of the architectural redesign and particularly liked the turquoise and gold/yellow colors of the building.
Commissioner Roberts said that because of its location this site deserved the best architecture and the Wessman team has brought design excellence. It is a very beautiful piece of architecture. He commented that the proposed colors are perfect and fit the architecture beautifully. The designs and finishes are great and especially likes the water fountain. Mr. Roberts encouraged the public art component to be special and unusual and fit the architecture. He suggested that the design team be included as a part of the landscaping group because of the sensitivity they exhibited towards the design of the building.
Commissioner Weremuik spoke in favor of the revisions to the proposed hotel and commented that the landscaping and public art are a very important part of the project. She noted that since the design team did such a great job that she would prefer that they present the colors of the building.
Chair Donenfeld spoke in favor of the architectural revisions to the proposed hotel and noted that it catches the legacy of the mid-century architectural style of our city but is a very progressive looking building, as well. It will attract all ages and demographics to the City.
Commissioner Roberts disclosed that he had communication with the applicant regarding a rendering of the project.
Vice-Chair Hudson disclosed that he had communication with the applicant regarding his comments on the design.
Chair Donenfeld disclosed that he had a brief conversation with the applicant regarding the layout of the new design.
Commissioner Calerdine disclosed that he had a brief exposure to the initial drawings a few weeks ago.
Motion to To accept the redesign of facade and materials for the hotel of the Palm Springs Downtown project with the following recommendations:
-A stronger emphasis be given to the landscape design.
-A more intregrated attitude about the public art component.
-The design team to propose the colors for the building. Moved by Vice Chair Hudson, seconded by Chair Donenfeld.
Vote to To accept the redesign of facade and materials for the hotel of the Palm Springs Downtown project with the following recommendations:
-A stronger emphasis be given to the landscape design.
-A more intregrated attitude about the public art component.
-The design team to propose the colors for the building. (Approved)
3B. Case 5.1282 / 5.1283 - An Appeal of the Planning Directors Determination that the appellant's proposed uses are not a hotel. For two parcels, 1590 East Palm Canyon Drive and 1425 Via Soledad; Zone R-2 (Project Planner Ken Lyon RA, Associate Planner)
Ken Lyon, Associate Planner, provided background information as outlined in the staff report dated February 13, 2013.
Commissioner Munger disclosed that she lives in the Deepwell Neighborhood and has not participated in any discussions regarding this item.
The Planning Commission discussed the current use for the appellant's two properties.
Jim Webb, Deputy Chief and Fire Marshall, provided clarification on fire code regulations.
Commissioner Munger expressed concern with the insufficient parking for the current uses.
Commissioner Weremuik commented that the current use is not configured as an apartment building or a hotel and many of the issues could be addressed with a conditional use permit.
Commissioner Calerdine noted that the zoning for this type of use needs to be updated and would be voting against the motion.
Motion to To deny the appeal and uphold the Planning Director's decision. Moved by J.R. Roberts, seconded by Kathy Weremiuk.
Vote to To deny the appeal and uphold the Planning Director's decision. (Approved)
Staff reported that this decision may be appealed to the City Council within 10 working days at the City Clerk's office.
PLANNING COMMISSION COMMENTS:
The Commission commented on the following:
*A preference for drawings submitted for the Commission's review on 8 1/2 x 11 instead of the 11 x 17 larger size paper.
*An interest in attending a tour of the DWA facility, as previously discussed.
*Commissioner Munger would not be in attendance for the next two meetings.
*A checklist to include applicants color photos for the Commission's review.
*Electronic copy of exhibits available on the City webpage.
*The meeting of Feb. 27, 2013 will be cancelled.
*A study session will be held on March 6, 2013.
*The status of the AAC vacancies.
*An update on the hiring of the new Planning Director.
PLANNING DIRECTOR'S REPORT:
Chair Donenfeld provided an overview of the tasks associated with Community Development Block Grant program and requested a representative from the Commission to cover the two meetings during his absence. The Commission discussed their availability.
ADJOURNMENT:
There being no further comments the Planning Commission adjourned at 3:37 pm to Wednesday, March 6, 2013, City Hall, Council Chamber, 3200 East Tahquitz Canyon Way.
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