Video index
CALL TO ORDER:
Chair Klatchko called the meeting to order at 1:50 pm.
ROLL CALL:
Roll Call: 7 members present, 0 members absent, 0 members excused.
Staff Liaisons:
Flinn Fagg, AICP, Director of Planning Services
Michael Daudt, City Attorney
Terri Hintz, Planning Administrative Coordinator
Savat Khamphou, Assistant Director of Public Works
Ken Lyon, Associate Planner
Glenn Mlaker, AICP, Assistant Planner
David Newell, Associate Planner
Chair Klatchko re-entered at 2:31 pm.
Vice-Chair Roberts opened public comments
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 6:00 pm on Thursday, October 22, 2015.
ACCEPTANCE OF THE AGENDA:
Chair Klatchko moved Item 3A (Unfinished Business) to the front of the agenda.
Chair Klatchko reported an abstention on Item 2B due to a property-related conflict of interest.
The agenda was accepted, as amended.
PUBLIC COMMENTS:
Chair Klatchko opened public comments:
-RON HANSON, spoke in reference to Item 3A, said he is in support of Far West Industries recommendations to modify the existing proposal.
-FRANK TYSEN, spoke in opposition of the Downtown project and suggested the Commission slow down and wait until the new Council comes in to review this project.
-ROBERT BRUGGEMAN, downtown business owner, said there are many people who support the Downtown project.
-MARINA ROSSI, welcomed the hotel competition and spoke in favor of good development in any town; however, questioned if there is a demand for all the office spaces and hotel rooms.
-DAVID ZIPPAL, spoke about the importance in preserving the village-feel of Palm Springs.
There being no further appearances public comments was closed.
1. CONSENT CALENDAR:
1A. APPROVAL OF MINUTES: OCTOBER 14, 2015 STUDY SESSION MINUTES
Motion to approve Moved by Commissioner Donenfeld, seconded by Vice-Chair Roberts.
Vote to approve (Approved)
3. UNFINISHED BUSINESS: (This Item was called out of order.)
3A. DAVID ENDRES / DEBBIE REICHLING FOR A MAJOR ARCHITECTURAL APPLICATION FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF A 4,170-SQUARE FOOT HOUSE ON A HILLSIDE LOT AND AN ADMINISTRATIVE MINOR MODIFICATION REQUESTING AN INCREASE IN BUILDING HEIGHT LOCATED AT 2355 NORTH MILO DRIVE, ZONE R-1-C (CASE 3.2938 MAJ & 7.1456 AMM). (GM)
Associate Planner Mlaker reviewed the changes the Commission requested at their last meeting. He reported that staff has received a letter from the property owner requesting the modified application be withdrawn and the previous rendering be submitted for review.
JAMES CIOFFI, project architect, explained the owner is adament to proceed with the original design and feels lowering the house will affect his views to the east.
Commissioner Roberts clarified the noticing requirements were met and gave the applicant a lot of latitude and does not see any other option but to deny the project.
Deny.
Motion to approve Deny. Moved by Commissioner Weremiuk, seconded by Vice-Chair Roberts.
Vote to approve Deny. (Approved)
2. PUBLIC HEARINGS:
2A. SAGE COURTYARD LP, FOR A VARIANCE REQUEST TO REDUCE THE SIDE YARD SETBACK ON THE STREET SIDE FACING EAST ANDREAS ROAD TO FIVE (5) FEET FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF NEW CARPORTS AT THE SAGE COURTYARD APARTMENT COMPLEX LOCATED AT 2300 EAST TAHQUITZ CANYON WAY, ZONE R-3 (CASE 6.540 VAR). (GM)
Associate Planner Mlaker provided background information as outlined in the staff report.
The Commission asked technical questions pertaining to:
*The landscaping along the sidewalk and how it will buffer the carports.
*Why does the new carport design differ from the existing design.
*Would solar panels be an option for carports?
Chair Klatchko opened the public hearing:
-GEORGE MOBAYED, Investment Concepts, responded they chose the corregated metal to be less imposing on the property line and landscape will be desertscape with a significant amount of trees.
-DOUG DOMINIANO, concerned about the property maintenance in this area.
There being no appearances the public hearing was closed.
per staff approval and have the landscape plan come back to them.
Motion to approve Approve, per landscape recommendations and conditions of approval subject to:
1. Landscape plan return to Planning Commission under Consent Calendar. Moved by Vice-Chair Roberts, seconded by Commissioner Lowe.
Vote to approve Approve, per landscape recommendations and conditions of approval subject to:
1. Landscape plan return to Planning Commission under Consent Calendar. (Approved)
2B. MOJAVE BLUE LP, FOR A VARIANCE REQUEST TO REDUCE THE SIDE YARD SETBACK ON THE STREET SIDE FACING EAST ANDREAS ROAD TO FIVE (5) FEET FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF NEW CARPORTS AT THE MOJAVE BLUE APARTMENT COMPLEX LOCATED AT 2720 EAST TAHQUITZ CANYON WAY, ZONE R-3 (CASE 6.541 VAR). (GM)
Vice-Chair Klatchko noted his conflict of interest and left the Council Chamber at 2:22 pm.
Associate Planner Mlaker provided background information as outlined in the staff report.
The Commission asked technical questions pertaining to:
*Maintenance of the property.
*Refurbishing 5 foot wall.
*Same wooden trellis will be used.
Vice-Chair Roberts opened the public hearing and with no appearances coming forward the public hearing was closed.
Motion to approve Approve, subject to conditions; and
1. Restore wall.
2. Landscape screening up to 5 feet.
3. Return to AAC for review of carport design and landscaping.
4. Return to the Planning Commission for landscape review under Consent Calender. Moved by Commissioner Weremiuk, seconded by Commissioner Lowe.
Vote to approve Approve, subject to conditions; and
1. Restore wall.
2. Landscape screening up to 5 feet.
3. Return to AAC for review of carport design and landscaping.
4. Return to the Planning Commission for landscape review under Consent Calender. (Approved)
Chair Klatchko re-entered the Council Chamber at 2:31 pm.
2C. THE PALMS HOA FOR A VARIANCE REQUEST TO REDUCE THE SIDE YARD SETBACK ON THE STREET SIDE FACING THERESA DRIVE FROM THE REQUIRED TWENTY-FIVE (25) FEET TO 4'-6" FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF NEW CARPORTS AT THE PALMS CONDOMINIUM COMPLEX LOCATED AT 3155 EAST RAMON ROAD, ZONE R-3 (CASE 6.544 VAR). (GM)
Associate Planner Mlaker presented the proposed request for a reduction in setbacks as outlined in the staff report.
Chair Klatchko opened the public hearing:
-RONNIE THOMPSON, chair, Carport Committee, was available for questions from the Commission.
-DEAN SHORRS, owner, spoke in support of staff's recommendations and urged approval.
-KEVIN JOHNSON, long-range planning committee, said they have been dreaming of having carports for all of their owners for years.
There being no further appearances the public hearing was closed.
Motion to approve Approve with conditions subject to:
-Return to the AAC for carport design. Moved by Commissioner Weremiuk, seconded by Commissioner Lowe.
Vote to approve Approve with conditions subject to:
-Return to the AAC for carport design. (Approved)
2D. AIC CAPITAL, LLC FOR A TENTATIVE PARCEL MAP (TPM) TO SUBDIVIDE A 0.46-ACRE PARCEL INTO TWO PARCELS AND A VARIANCE APPLICATION FOR APPROVAL OF THE RESULTANT LOTS TO BE SMALLER THAN THE MINIMUM LOT SIZE FOR THE ZONES IN WHICH THEY ARE LOCATED AT 2732 NORTH CARDILLO ROAD; ZONE R-1-C / RGA-6, (CASE TPM 36958 AND 6.545 VAR). (KL)
Associate Planner Lyon provided an overview of the proposed project.
Chair Klatchko opened the public hearing:
-MARVIN ROOS, MSA Consulting, provided background history of the property and requested approval.
There being no further appearances the public hearing was closed.
Commissioner Calerdine requested clarification with regard to the curb and gutter.
Motion to approve Approve Case TPM 36958 and 6.545 VAR, subject to Conditions. Moved by Commissioner Middleton, seconded by Commissioner Donenfeld.
Vote to approve Approve Case TPM 36958 and 6.545 VAR, subject to Conditions. (Approved)
A recess was taken at 2:46 pm.
The meeting resumed at 2:52 pm.
2E. APPLICATION BY THE CITY OF PALM SPRINGS TO UPDATE AND AMEND THE MUSEUM MARKET PLAZA SPECIFIC PLAN TO REFLECT PREVIOUS APPROVALS AND MODIFICATIONS, INCLUDING CHANGES TO PERMITTED USES FOR CERTAIN BLOCKS WITHIN THE DEVELOPMENT, CHANGES TO THE MAXIMUM PERMITTED HEIGHT FOR CERTAIN BLOCKS WITHIN THE DEVELOPMENT, REDUCTIONS IN THE OVERALL DEVELOPABLE SQUARE FOOTAGE AND PERMITTED NUMBER OF UNITS, AND OTHER VARIOUS ADMINISTRATIVE CHANGES AND CORRECTIONS (CASE NO. 5.1204 SP A-1). (FF)
Planning Director Fagg provided background information as outlined in the staff report and introduced the City's consultant to describe the traffic study and environmental documents.
Nicole Criste, Terra Nova Planning, provided an overview on the EIR addendum and traffic study update.
Director Fagg summarized the changes to the Museum Market Plaza Specific Plan as outlined in the staff report. Mr. Fagg described the changes relative to the setbacks, massing and the parking structure.
The Commission commented and/or requested clarification on:
-Mark the future buildings as "potential future development" and identify the blocks to differentiate each one.
-This project came before the Commission because it conformed to the General Plan.
-Reduction in sidewalk width.
-Concern that the parking structure does not include the museum and event traffic.
-Concern that stepbacks allow more height.
-More time is needed to review the changes.
-Additional parking requirement.
-The possibility of preserving the view of Andreas to add a second view corridor.
-Alternative to setback requirements.
-Update on Town & Country property.
-Provision for transfer of building square footage.
-Mitigation measures will be applied in future projects.
-Permitted uses.
Chair Katchko opened the public hearing:
-DAVID ZIPPAL, read into the record a statement by Doug Hudson regarding his thoughts on the Downtown project.
-MICHAEL JOHNSTON, questioned the residential units that will be provided, hotel drop-off and access to parking.
PAULA AUBURN, said it seems to high with narrow corridors and urged the Commission to take a step back and move forward in an intelligent manner.
TRAE DANIEL, suggested a study on El Paseo and The River be done relative free parking; concern wth the flow of traffic and urged a long-range vision for downtown Palm Springs.
JOY BROWN-MEREDITH, is not opposed to the project; however, questioned how the average citizen is supposed to understand the project when the Commission is confused.
FRANK TYSEN, requested the changes be broken down section by section and urged this process be delayed until the new council is in place.
AFTAD DADA, representing PS Resorts, spoke in support of the luxury hotel in downtown Palm Springs.
ROBERT BRUGGEMAN, urged approval of this project and is urgently needed downtown.
EMILY HEMPHILL, legal consul for Wessman Development, addressed public testimony with respect to the overall develoment of this project.
There being no further appearances the public comment was closed.
Commissioner Middleton commented that there is a tremendous amount of information to reveiw; however, keep in mind the project that is descreasing the amount of density, less than what was orginally proprosed. Has some concerns regarding sidewalks adn street traffic flow. is impressed with the downtown event space and this project has been improved and needs to move forward through the completion of the project.
Commissioner Donenfeld concurred with the Commission that more is needed.
Commissioner Roberts said what is before them are changes that have been approved and will make a motion to continue to allow staff to address their questions.
Commissioner Weremiuk requested going on a line-by-line on the changes that have been make.
Commissioner Calerdine commented that this is the appropriate density for this site and this is not the time to make major changes to the plan.
Commissioner Donenfeld noted that many businesses are out-dated and room must be made for the future. He stands frim that this project must go forward and does not think this kind of project can be done economically with little density.
Motion to approve Continue to a date certain of November 12, 2015. Moved by Vice-Chair Roberts, seconded by Commissioner Weremiuk.
Vote to approve Continue to a date certain of November 12, 2015. (Approved)
A recess was taken at 4:38 pm.
The meeting reconvened at 4:50 pm.
2F. PALM SPRINGS PROMENADE, LLC FOR A MAJOR ARCHITECTURAL APPLICATION TO CONSTRUCT A 6-STORY, 112,862-SQ. FT. RESORT HOTEL CONSISTING OF 142-ROOMS, MEETING SPACE, RESTAURANTS, SPA AND FITNESS CENTER ON BLOCK "B-1" OF THE DOWNTOWN PALM SPRINGS PROJECT LOCATED AT THE NORTHEAST CORNER OF BELARDO ROAD AND MAIN STREET, ZONE CBD (CASE 3.3908 MAJ). (DN)
Chair Klatchko announced that he has been advised by the City Attorney that an action could not be taken until action has been taken on the Specific Plan Amendment.
Associate Planner Newell presented the proposed hotel on Block B-1 of the Downtown Development project.
The Commission commented and/or asked technical questions in reference to:
-Is the drop-off space on Main Street adequate?
-The AAC's concerns (more context, open up to more pedestrian acitivity on Market Street, reduce setback or reduce height on Market Street)for those who were opposed.
Chair Klatchko opened the public hearing:
-CHRIS PARDO, project designer, described the project using a PowerPoint presentation and mass model. He provided further details on the hotel parking, shade study, site section elevations, eye-level height study form the park, cross and eye-sections of the entire development, pedestrian paseo, overall view of public spaces and material textures.
FRANK TYSEN, said an economic study should be done and questioned if more hotel rooms are needed.
MICHAEL JOHNSTON, spoke in support of the high quality hotel; courtyard is very appropriate but suggested more more balcony space to attract more clientle.
There being no further appearances the public hearing was closed.
Vice-Chair Roberts suggested breaking up some of the tall massing in the center of the development towards the north side. He said he struggles approving another hotel and does not see the residential units that would keep it vibrant.
Commissioner Calerdine questioned why only a certain amount of rooms have balconies. The applicant responded that it is driven by the hotel operator.
Commissioner Middleton said she understands why a major name brand hotel would want to have this access facing the park; however, one of the most crictial part is how it looks from the park. The first floor looks pretty dull in comparison to the rest of the bulding; make it a more attractive fasade - and the windows on the north and south side of the buidling.
Chair Klatchko expressed concern with the flow of traffic (from the hotel going in and out) and how the ground floor will encourage pedestrian acitivity go west towards the park.
Motion to approve Continue to a date certain of November 9, 2015. Moved by Commissioner Weremiuk, seconded by Commissioner Lowe.
Vote to approve Continue to a date certain of November 9, 2015. (Approved)
PLANNING COMMISSION REPORTS, REQUESTS AND COMMENTS:
None.
PLANNING DIRECTOR'S REPORT:
None.
ADJOURNMENT:
There being no further comments the Planning Commission at 5:42 pm adjourned to 9:00 am, Thursday, November 12, 2015, City Hall, Council Chamber, 3200 East Tahquitz Canyon Way.
Oct 28, 2015 Planning Commission
Full agenda
Share this video
Video Index
Full agenda
Share
CALL TO ORDER:
Chair Klatchko called the meeting to order at 1:50 pm.
ROLL CALL:
Roll Call: 7 members present, 0 members absent, 0 members excused.
Staff Liaisons:
Flinn Fagg, AICP, Director of Planning Services
Michael Daudt, City Attorney
Terri Hintz, Planning Administrative Coordinator
Savat Khamphou, Assistant Director of Public Works
Ken Lyon, Associate Planner
Glenn Mlaker, AICP, Assistant Planner
David Newell, Associate Planner
Chair Klatchko re-entered at 2:31 pm.
Vice-Chair Roberts opened public comments
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 6:00 pm on Thursday, October 22, 2015.
ACCEPTANCE OF THE AGENDA:
Chair Klatchko moved Item 3A (Unfinished Business) to the front of the agenda.
Chair Klatchko reported an abstention on Item 2B due to a property-related conflict of interest.
The agenda was accepted, as amended.
PUBLIC COMMENTS:
Chair Klatchko opened public comments:
-RON HANSON, spoke in reference to Item 3A, said he is in support of Far West Industries recommendations to modify the existing proposal.
-FRANK TYSEN, spoke in opposition of the Downtown project and suggested the Commission slow down and wait until the new Council comes in to review this project.
-ROBERT BRUGGEMAN, downtown business owner, said there are many people who support the Downtown project.
-MARINA ROSSI, welcomed the hotel competition and spoke in favor of good development in any town; however, questioned if there is a demand for all the office spaces and hotel rooms.
-DAVID ZIPPAL, spoke about the importance in preserving the village-feel of Palm Springs.
There being no further appearances public comments was closed.
1. CONSENT CALENDAR:
1A. APPROVAL OF MINUTES: OCTOBER 14, 2015 STUDY SESSION MINUTES
Motion to approve Moved by Commissioner Donenfeld, seconded by Vice-Chair Roberts.
Vote to approve (Approved)
3. UNFINISHED BUSINESS: (This Item was called out of order.)
3A. DAVID ENDRES / DEBBIE REICHLING FOR A MAJOR ARCHITECTURAL APPLICATION FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF A 4,170-SQUARE FOOT HOUSE ON A HILLSIDE LOT AND AN ADMINISTRATIVE MINOR MODIFICATION REQUESTING AN INCREASE IN BUILDING HEIGHT LOCATED AT 2355 NORTH MILO DRIVE, ZONE R-1-C (CASE 3.2938 MAJ & 7.1456 AMM). (GM)
Associate Planner Mlaker reviewed the changes the Commission requested at their last meeting. He reported that staff has received a letter from the property owner requesting the modified application be withdrawn and the previous rendering be submitted for review.
JAMES CIOFFI, project architect, explained the owner is adament to proceed with the original design and feels lowering the house will affect his views to the east.
Commissioner Roberts clarified the noticing requirements were met and gave the applicant a lot of latitude and does not see any other option but to deny the project.
Deny.
Motion to approve Deny. Moved by Commissioner Weremiuk, seconded by Vice-Chair Roberts.
Vote to approve Deny. (Approved)
2. PUBLIC HEARINGS:
2A. SAGE COURTYARD LP, FOR A VARIANCE REQUEST TO REDUCE THE SIDE YARD SETBACK ON THE STREET SIDE FACING EAST ANDREAS ROAD TO FIVE (5) FEET FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF NEW CARPORTS AT THE SAGE COURTYARD APARTMENT COMPLEX LOCATED AT 2300 EAST TAHQUITZ CANYON WAY, ZONE R-3 (CASE 6.540 VAR). (GM)
Associate Planner Mlaker provided background information as outlined in the staff report.
The Commission asked technical questions pertaining to:
*The landscaping along the sidewalk and how it will buffer the carports.
*Why does the new carport design differ from the existing design.
*Would solar panels be an option for carports?
Chair Klatchko opened the public hearing:
-GEORGE MOBAYED, Investment Concepts, responded they chose the corregated metal to be less imposing on the property line and landscape will be desertscape with a significant amount of trees.
-DOUG DOMINIANO, concerned about the property maintenance in this area.
There being no appearances the public hearing was closed.
per staff approval and have the landscape plan come back to them.
Motion to approve Approve, per landscape recommendations and conditions of approval subject to:
1. Landscape plan return to Planning Commission under Consent Calendar. Moved by Vice-Chair Roberts, seconded by Commissioner Lowe.
Vote to approve Approve, per landscape recommendations and conditions of approval subject to:
1. Landscape plan return to Planning Commission under Consent Calendar. (Approved)
2B. MOJAVE BLUE LP, FOR A VARIANCE REQUEST TO REDUCE THE SIDE YARD SETBACK ON THE STREET SIDE FACING EAST ANDREAS ROAD TO FIVE (5) FEET FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF NEW CARPORTS AT THE MOJAVE BLUE APARTMENT COMPLEX LOCATED AT 2720 EAST TAHQUITZ CANYON WAY, ZONE R-3 (CASE 6.541 VAR). (GM)
Vice-Chair Klatchko noted his conflict of interest and left the Council Chamber at 2:22 pm.
Associate Planner Mlaker provided background information as outlined in the staff report.
The Commission asked technical questions pertaining to:
*Maintenance of the property.
*Refurbishing 5 foot wall.
*Same wooden trellis will be used.
Vice-Chair Roberts opened the public hearing and with no appearances coming forward the public hearing was closed.
Motion to approve Approve, subject to conditions; and
1. Restore wall.
2. Landscape screening up to 5 feet.
3. Return to AAC for review of carport design and landscaping.
4. Return to the Planning Commission for landscape review under Consent Calender. Moved by Commissioner Weremiuk, seconded by Commissioner Lowe.
Vote to approve Approve, subject to conditions; and
1. Restore wall.
2. Landscape screening up to 5 feet.
3. Return to AAC for review of carport design and landscaping.
4. Return to the Planning Commission for landscape review under Consent Calender. (Approved)
Chair Klatchko re-entered the Council Chamber at 2:31 pm.
2C. THE PALMS HOA FOR A VARIANCE REQUEST TO REDUCE THE SIDE YARD SETBACK ON THE STREET SIDE FACING THERESA DRIVE FROM THE REQUIRED TWENTY-FIVE (25) FEET TO 4'-6" FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF NEW CARPORTS AT THE PALMS CONDOMINIUM COMPLEX LOCATED AT 3155 EAST RAMON ROAD, ZONE R-3 (CASE 6.544 VAR). (GM)
Associate Planner Mlaker presented the proposed request for a reduction in setbacks as outlined in the staff report.
Chair Klatchko opened the public hearing:
-RONNIE THOMPSON, chair, Carport Committee, was available for questions from the Commission.
-DEAN SHORRS, owner, spoke in support of staff's recommendations and urged approval.
-KEVIN JOHNSON, long-range planning committee, said they have been dreaming of having carports for all of their owners for years.
There being no further appearances the public hearing was closed.
Motion to approve Approve with conditions subject to:
-Return to the AAC for carport design. Moved by Commissioner Weremiuk, seconded by Commissioner Lowe.
Vote to approve Approve with conditions subject to:
-Return to the AAC for carport design. (Approved)
2D. AIC CAPITAL, LLC FOR A TENTATIVE PARCEL MAP (TPM) TO SUBDIVIDE A 0.46-ACRE PARCEL INTO TWO PARCELS AND A VARIANCE APPLICATION FOR APPROVAL OF THE RESULTANT LOTS TO BE SMALLER THAN THE MINIMUM LOT SIZE FOR THE ZONES IN WHICH THEY ARE LOCATED AT 2732 NORTH CARDILLO ROAD; ZONE R-1-C / RGA-6, (CASE TPM 36958 AND 6.545 VAR). (KL)
Associate Planner Lyon provided an overview of the proposed project.
Chair Klatchko opened the public hearing:
-MARVIN ROOS, MSA Consulting, provided background history of the property and requested approval.
There being no further appearances the public hearing was closed.
Commissioner Calerdine requested clarification with regard to the curb and gutter.
Motion to approve Approve Case TPM 36958 and 6.545 VAR, subject to Conditions. Moved by Commissioner Middleton, seconded by Commissioner Donenfeld.
Vote to approve Approve Case TPM 36958 and 6.545 VAR, subject to Conditions. (Approved)
A recess was taken at 2:46 pm.
The meeting resumed at 2:52 pm.
2E. APPLICATION BY THE CITY OF PALM SPRINGS TO UPDATE AND AMEND THE MUSEUM MARKET PLAZA SPECIFIC PLAN TO REFLECT PREVIOUS APPROVALS AND MODIFICATIONS, INCLUDING CHANGES TO PERMITTED USES FOR CERTAIN BLOCKS WITHIN THE DEVELOPMENT, CHANGES TO THE MAXIMUM PERMITTED HEIGHT FOR CERTAIN BLOCKS WITHIN THE DEVELOPMENT, REDUCTIONS IN THE OVERALL DEVELOPABLE SQUARE FOOTAGE AND PERMITTED NUMBER OF UNITS, AND OTHER VARIOUS ADMINISTRATIVE CHANGES AND CORRECTIONS (CASE NO. 5.1204 SP A-1). (FF)
Planning Director Fagg provided background information as outlined in the staff report and introduced the City's consultant to describe the traffic study and environmental documents.
Nicole Criste, Terra Nova Planning, provided an overview on the EIR addendum and traffic study update.
Director Fagg summarized the changes to the Museum Market Plaza Specific Plan as outlined in the staff report. Mr. Fagg described the changes relative to the setbacks, massing and the parking structure.
The Commission commented and/or requested clarification on:
-Mark the future buildings as "potential future development" and identify the blocks to differentiate each one.
-This project came before the Commission because it conformed to the General Plan.
-Reduction in sidewalk width.
-Concern that the parking structure does not include the museum and event traffic.
-Concern that stepbacks allow more height.
-More time is needed to review the changes.
-Additional parking requirement.
-The possibility of preserving the view of Andreas to add a second view corridor.
-Alternative to setback requirements.
-Update on Town & Country property.
-Provision for transfer of building square footage.
-Mitigation measures will be applied in future projects.
-Permitted uses.
Chair Katchko opened the public hearing:
-DAVID ZIPPAL, read into the record a statement by Doug Hudson regarding his thoughts on the Downtown project.
-MICHAEL JOHNSTON, questioned the residential units that will be provided, hotel drop-off and access to parking.
PAULA AUBURN, said it seems to high with narrow corridors and urged the Commission to take a step back and move forward in an intelligent manner.
TRAE DANIEL, suggested a study on El Paseo and The River be done relative free parking; concern wth the flow of traffic and urged a long-range vision for downtown Palm Springs.
JOY BROWN-MEREDITH, is not opposed to the project; however, questioned how the average citizen is supposed to understand the project when the Commission is confused.
FRANK TYSEN, requested the changes be broken down section by section and urged this process be delayed until the new council is in place.
AFTAD DADA, representing PS Resorts, spoke in support of the luxury hotel in downtown Palm Springs.
ROBERT BRUGGEMAN, urged approval of this project and is urgently needed downtown.
EMILY HEMPHILL, legal consul for Wessman Development, addressed public testimony with respect to the overall develoment of this project.
There being no further appearances the public comment was closed.
Commissioner Middleton commented that there is a tremendous amount of information to reveiw; however, keep in mind the project that is descreasing the amount of density, less than what was orginally proprosed. Has some concerns regarding sidewalks adn street traffic flow. is impressed with the downtown event space and this project has been improved and needs to move forward through the completion of the project.
Commissioner Donenfeld concurred with the Commission that more is needed.
Commissioner Roberts said what is before them are changes that have been approved and will make a motion to continue to allow staff to address their questions.
Commissioner Weremiuk requested going on a line-by-line on the changes that have been make.
Commissioner Calerdine commented that this is the appropriate density for this site and this is not the time to make major changes to the plan.
Commissioner Donenfeld noted that many businesses are out-dated and room must be made for the future. He stands frim that this project must go forward and does not think this kind of project can be done economically with little density.
Motion to approve Continue to a date certain of November 12, 2015. Moved by Vice-Chair Roberts, seconded by Commissioner Weremiuk.
Vote to approve Continue to a date certain of November 12, 2015. (Approved)
A recess was taken at 4:38 pm.
The meeting reconvened at 4:50 pm.
2F. PALM SPRINGS PROMENADE, LLC FOR A MAJOR ARCHITECTURAL APPLICATION TO CONSTRUCT A 6-STORY, 112,862-SQ. FT. RESORT HOTEL CONSISTING OF 142-ROOMS, MEETING SPACE, RESTAURANTS, SPA AND FITNESS CENTER ON BLOCK "B-1" OF THE DOWNTOWN PALM SPRINGS PROJECT LOCATED AT THE NORTHEAST CORNER OF BELARDO ROAD AND MAIN STREET, ZONE CBD (CASE 3.3908 MAJ). (DN)
Chair Klatchko announced that he has been advised by the City Attorney that an action could not be taken until action has been taken on the Specific Plan Amendment.
Associate Planner Newell presented the proposed hotel on Block B-1 of the Downtown Development project.
The Commission commented and/or asked technical questions in reference to:
-Is the drop-off space on Main Street adequate?
-The AAC's concerns (more context, open up to more pedestrian acitivity on Market Street, reduce setback or reduce height on Market Street)for those who were opposed.
Chair Klatchko opened the public hearing:
-CHRIS PARDO, project designer, described the project using a PowerPoint presentation and mass model. He provided further details on the hotel parking, shade study, site section elevations, eye-level height study form the park, cross and eye-sections of the entire development, pedestrian paseo, overall view of public spaces and material textures.
FRANK TYSEN, said an economic study should be done and questioned if more hotel rooms are needed.
MICHAEL JOHNSTON, spoke in support of the high quality hotel; courtyard is very appropriate but suggested more more balcony space to attract more clientle.
There being no further appearances the public hearing was closed.
Vice-Chair Roberts suggested breaking up some of the tall massing in the center of the development towards the north side. He said he struggles approving another hotel and does not see the residential units that would keep it vibrant.
Commissioner Calerdine questioned why only a certain amount of rooms have balconies. The applicant responded that it is driven by the hotel operator.
Commissioner Middleton said she understands why a major name brand hotel would want to have this access facing the park; however, one of the most crictial part is how it looks from the park. The first floor looks pretty dull in comparison to the rest of the bulding; make it a more attractive fasade - and the windows on the north and south side of the buidling.
Chair Klatchko expressed concern with the flow of traffic (from the hotel going in and out) and how the ground floor will encourage pedestrian acitivity go west towards the park.
Motion to approve Continue to a date certain of November 9, 2015. Moved by Commissioner Weremiuk, seconded by Commissioner Lowe.
Vote to approve Continue to a date certain of November 9, 2015. (Approved)
PLANNING COMMISSION REPORTS, REQUESTS AND COMMENTS:
None.
PLANNING DIRECTOR'S REPORT:
None.
ADJOURNMENT:
There being no further comments the Planning Commission at 5:42 pm adjourned to 9:00 am, Thursday, November 12, 2015, City Hall, Council Chamber, 3200 East Tahquitz Canyon Way.
Link
Start video at
Social
Embed
<iframe title="Swagit Video Player" width="640" height="360" src="https://palmspringsca.new.swagit.com/videos/15058/embed" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>
Disable autoplay on embedded content?
Download
Download
Download Selected Item
