Video index
CALL TO ORDER:
Vice-Chair Weremiuk called the meeting to order at 1:31 pm.
ROLL CALL:
Roll Call: 6 members present, 1 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 6:00 pm on Thursday, March 16, 2017.
ACCEPTANCE OF THE AGENDA:
PUBLIC COMMENTS:
Vice-Chair Weremiuk opened public comments:
The following persons spoke in opposition of Item 2A (Variance for off-site parking lot):
BRAD ZYLSTRA, spoke in opposition of the proposed off-site parking lot for the hotel.
LORRAINE ADAMSKI, spoke in opposition of the proposed off-site parking lot for the hotel and requested denial.
SHERRIE KILMAN, spoke in opposition of the off-site parking lot; noting that the neighborhood is at it's saturation with the Arrive Hotel and Draughtsman restaurant.
DAVID SILVER, requested denial of the parking lot because it provides no benefit to the neighborhood.
JOANNE FREEDMAN, spoke in opposition of parking variance; noting concern with the bus stop in front of the proposed parking lot.
There being no further speakers public comments was closed.
1. CONSENT CALENDAR:
1A. APPROVAL OF MINUTES: MARCH 8, 2017
Commissioner Hirschbein requested Item 1B pulled for separate discussion.
Commissioner Middleton requested Item 1C pulled for separate discussion.
Commissioner Donenfeld requested Item 1B pulled for separate discussion.
Vice-Chair Weremiuk requested Item 1A pulled for separate discussion.
Vice-Chair Weremiuk requested further clarification on the action taken for Item 2A.
Motion to approve Continue the minutes to April 12, 2017. Moved by Vice-Chair Weremiuk, seconded by Commissioner Donenfeld.
Vote to approve Continue the minutes to April 12, 2017. (Approved)
1B. FREEHOLD CAPITAL MANAGEMENT (FCM) LLC, REQUESTING A ONE-YEAR EXTENSION OF TIME FOR PHASE 2 (A PORTION) OF TENTATIVE TRACT MAP 31848, A PREVIOUSLY APPROVED SUBDIVISION FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF 1,150 RESIDENTIAL UNITS AND AMENITY CENTER LOCATED ALONG THE NORTH SIDE OF SAN RAFAEL ROAD, EAST OF NORTH INDIAN CANYON DRIVE, SOUTH OF THE WHITEWATER RIVER AND WEST OF SUNRISE WAY (CASE 5.0982-PD 290 / TTM 31848). (ER)
Motion to approve Approval of a one-year extension of time to the City Council. Moved by Commissioner Lowe, seconded by Commissioner Donenfeld.
Vote to approve Approval of a one-year extension of time to the City Council. (Approved)
1C. TRIO RESTAURANT, FOR AN ART MURAL APPLICATION ON A COMMERCIAL RESTAURANT BUILDING LOCATED AT 707 NORTH PALM CANYON DRIVE. (CASE 17-001 MUR). (GM)
Associate Planner Mlaker provided background information on the approval process for the proposed mural and answered questions from the Commission.
Vice-Chair Weremiuk commented that as a patron of the restaurant she liked the mural instead of a plain wall.
Motion to approve Approval with conditions. Moved by Commissioner Donenfeld, seconded by Commissioner Hudson.
Vote to approve Approval with conditions. (Approved)
1D. SCOTT COON FOR A MAJOR ARCHITECTURAL APPLICATION PROPOSING A SINGLE FAMILY RESIDENTIAL DWELLING UNIT ON A 10,324 SQUARE FOOT HILLSIDE LOT LOCATED AT 2347 SOUTH BISNAGA ROAD, ZONE R-1-B (CASE 3.2991 MAJ). (KL)
Associate Planner Lyon provided details on the sloping of the lot and addressed questions from the Commission.
Motion to approve Approval with conditions. Moved by Commissioner Lowe, seconded by Commissioner Hirschbein.
Vote to approve Approval with conditions. (Approved)
2. PUBLIC HEARINGS:
Commissioner Donenfeld reported that he resides in the Old Las Palmas neighborhood and although this project is not located within 500 ft. of his home for the transperancy and appropriateness he will recuse himself from this matter. He left the Council Chamber at 2:12 pm.
2A. 1875 NORTH PALM CANYON PARTNERS II, LLC (D/B/A TOVA HOTEL AND BEACH CLUB) REQUESTING A VARIANCE TO CONSTRUCT AN OFF-SITE PARKING LOT APPROXIMATELY 1,340-FEET FROM THE PROPERTY IT IS INTENDED TO SERVE, WHERE THE ZONING CODE WOULD ALLOW A MAXIMUM OF 300 FEET LOCATED AT 1425 NORTH PALM CANYON DRIVE, ZONE C-1/R-2. (Case 6.547 VAR) (GM)
Associate Planner Mlaker presented the proposed hotel requesting a variance to construct off-site parking.
Vice-Chair Weremiuk opened the public hearing:
TOM VENTURA, Gensler Architects, provided details on the previous hotel (2-star hotel) and the changes necessary to elevate this property to a 4-star hotel. Mr. Ventura described the exterior elevations, valet parking, traffic circulation, bus stop between entry ways, tandem spaces, landscape areas with 5' perimeter wall, full security (foot traffic) and low-10 ft. ambient lighting.
JIM BLASEN, behalf of the Old Las Palmas Neighborhood Organization, said they are in support of the Tova Hotel; however, are in opposition of the off-site parking. He noted concern with increase in traffic and believes there is a much better use for these lots to drive the economic development.
STEPHEN MOSES, neighborhood resident, commented that the valet drivers will go through the neighborhood and will not follow the route. He supports the Tova Hotel but is opposed to this parking concept.
STEVEN SIMMS, Casa De Oro, concerned about problems with traffic safety in this area and loud music coming from this hotel to accommodate the comforts of the patrons; spoke in opposition of the proposal.
ROBERT STONE, neighbor resident, commented that 3 of the 4 conditions of the Variance are not met. He likes the hotel proposal is beautiful but is in opposition of the parking concept.
CHARLY ASSALY, Prestige Management, CEO, (responded to public testimony) clarified that the traffic route will be followed as shown on the map. He said the current vacant lot attracts homeless people and proposal will benefit all the neighbors, provide jobs and benefit the city.
JANE SWEENY, La Siests Villa, commented about the hotel's website that promotes the two swimming pools and questioned the use if the property for day club use and not the restaurant.
TOM VENTURA, applicant, addressed the driving route that will be implemented. He indicated that the day-use will be for restaurant and spa (one swimming pool only).
There being no further speakers the public hearing was closed.
Comments:
Commissioner Hudson stated that he resides in the Old Las Palmas Neighborhood and is not within the 500 ft. of the property. He also attended the AAC meeting when this project was reviewed. Commissioner Hudson noted concern with the additional business component to the project (public use for the pool and bar) and would like to have this addressed.
Commissioner Hirschbein said he likes the hotel project and would like to see it move forward. He said to allow a lot term use of a parking lot on a commercial main street. He thinks the 200 sq. ft. restaurant is too large and would be more amenable to allow a parking plan on-site to allow parking for staff.
Commissioner Middleton concurs with Commissioners Hudson and Hirschbein. She said cannot support the Variance because there is adequate parking at the hotel for the existing use. She said the developer plans to change the use of the project and does not have adequate space for additional parking. She made a motion to deny the Variance.
Commissioner Lowe said he cannot support the off-site proposal because he thinks the 200 seat restaurant is inappropriate and is intended for large beach parties which will be inappropriate for the neighborhood.
Commissioner Hudson said he supports the Tova hotel project but questioned the large size of the restaurant. He lives in the neighborhood and thinks the valet drivers will take a shortcut through the neighborhood.
Vice-Chair Weremiuk agrees with staff for the denial and there are no special circumstances to allow the proposed parking with staff that there are no special circumstances that would allow parking so far away and is not good urban planning.
Motion to approve Denial. Moved by Commissioner Middleton, seconded by Commissioner Hudson.
Vote to approve Denial. (Approved)
Commissioner Donenfeld re-entered the chamber at 3:05 pm.
2B. 1875 NORTH PALM CANYON PARTNERS II, LLC, DBA - TOVA HOTEL AND BEACH CLUB FOR A CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT FOR A FULL SERVICE SPA; AND A 200-SEAT RESTAURANT/LOBBY BAR; AND A MAJOR ARCHITECTURAL APPLICATION FOR EXTERIOR BUILDING RENOVATIONS AND CONSTRUCTION OF A 15,000-SQUARE FOOT RESTAURANT BUILDING TO AN EXISTING HOTEL (FORMERLY THE GARDEN VISTA HOTEL) LOCATED AT 1875 NORTH PALM CANYON DRIVE (CASE 5.1382 CUP / 3.0157 MAA). (GM)
The Commission deliberated if this project should be heard given that the off-site parking was denied and the plans for the hotel need to be modified.
Motion to approve Continue to a date uncertain. Moved by Vice-Chair Weremiuk, seconded by Commissioner Donenfeld.
Vote to approve Continue to a date uncertain. (Approved)
A recess was taken at 3:12 pm.
The meeting resumed at 3:25 pm.
3C. DAKOTA PS, LLC REQUESTING AN AMENDMENT TO AN APPROVED PLANNED DEVELOPMENT DISTRICT TO ELIMINATE ONE UNIT AND INSTALL A TRAILHEAD AT THE SOUTH END OF THE 6.37-ACRE DEVELOPMENT KNOWN AS "DAKOTA" LOCATED AT 1501 SOUTH BELARDO ROAD, ZONE PD-365, SECTION 22 (CASE 5.1310 PD-365 AMEND). (DN)
Staff reported the applicant requested this Item be continued to the April 26, 2017 meeting.
Motion to approve Continue to a date certain of April 26, 2017. Moved by Commissioner Donenfeld, seconded by Commissioner Lowe.
Vote to approve Continue to a date certain of April 26, 2017. (Approved)
Item 4A, was taken out of order
4A. JMN SERVICES FOR A MAJOR ARCHITECTURAL APPLICATION TO CONSTRUCT AN OFFICE, WAREHOUSE, AND RETAIL GARDEN CENTER ON A 1.37-ACRE PARCEL LOCATED AT 710 RESEARCH DRIVE (CASE 3.3999 MAJ). (KL)
Associate Planner Lyon provided an overview on the proposed office, warehouse and retail garden center as outlined in the staff report.
Comments:
Commissioner Donenfeld said it's a refined, beautiful project particularly for this type of use.
Commissioners Middleton and Hudson spoke in favor of the proposed project.
Commissioner Lowe said he attend the AAC meeting when this project was reviewed and saw the details. He thinks it's an incredibly creative project and made a motion for approval.
Motion to approve Approval subject to conditions. Moved by Commissioner Lowe, seconded by Commissioner Hudson.
Vote to approve Approval subject to conditions. (Approved)
4. NEW BUSINESS:
3. UNFINISHED BUSINESS:
3A. FAR WEST INDUSTRIES, INC. FOR A REVISED FINAL PLANNED DEVELOPMENT DISTRICT APPLICATION FOR "ICON" (FORMERLY "ALVARADO AT THE ART COLONY", A PROPOSED GATED DEVELOPMENT OF 46, TWO-STORY DETACHED CONDOMINIUM DWELLING UNITS ON A 5.23-ACRE SITE LOCATED AT THE SOUTHWEST CORNER OF NORTH PALM CANYON DRIVE AND ALVARADO ROAD (CASE 5.1340 / PDD 370) / 3.3742 MAJ). (KL)
Motion to approve Continue to a date certain of April 12, 2017. Moved by Commissioner Donenfeld, seconded by Commissioner Lowe.
Vote to approve Continue to a date certain of April 12, 2017. (Approved)
3D. PALM SPRINGS PROMENADE, LLC FOR AN AMENDMENT TO THE APPROVED LANDSCAPE AND HARDSCAPE PLANS FOR DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS WITHIN THE DOWNTOWN PALM SPRINGS SPECIFIC PLAN LOCATED GENERALLY AT THE NORTHWEST CORNER OF PALM CANYON DRIVE AND TAHQUITZ CANYON WAY, ZONE CBD (CASE NOS. 5.1290 PD-361, 3.3605 MAJ, 3.3606 MAJ, 3.3607 MAJ, 3.3785 MAJ, 3.3908 MAJ AND 3.3948 MAJ). (DN)
Planning Director Fagg reported that a study session was held this morning to review this project and no formal action was taken.
Associate Planner Newell provided details on the proposed modifications to the landscape and hardscape plans as outlined in the staff report.
Vice-Chair Weremiuk opened the public hearing:
MICHAEL JOHNSTON, suggested the chairs for the public, canopy structure with lighting and misters. He suggested in long concrete walking spaces could include tall planters, tree planters in restaurants (natural shade) and in-ground planter to separate public and restaurant, wall on the Hyatt hopes to add a green wall that ends the paseo.
There being no further speakers the public hearing was closed.
Planning Director Fagg summarized the comments from the City Council subcommittee meeting held on March 8, 2017.
Commissioner Hudson thinks there are further improvements that can be made.
Vice-Chair Weremiuk stated the following items were discussed were:
-The crossing between Block C and Block B.
-Water features.
-Public benches and walkways
-Change plants in planter area
-Bollards
Commissioner Hirschbein:
-Parking bays or parallel parking be dedicated to bike racks;
-Include a second water feature in appropriate location;
-Additional information on concrete pavers and bollards;
-Provide a complete inventory on the hardspace furniture (lounge seating, benches etc.)
-Would like to see the shade structures gazebo structure with wood instead of the sail cloth struture
-Provide additional public seating areas.
Commissioner Lowe noted concern with the how much real public space there will be until the plans are submitted for the restaurants. He thinks minimum standards should be set for public and open-space.
Commissioner Middleton noted concern about the intrusion of the outdoor restaurant onto the public space (sidewalk of Block C along Palm Canyon) and on the northwest corner (Block C). She find the
crosswalks on Museum Way very problematic. She would like to understand how this will interact with Block B.
Commissioner Donenfeld commented about the difficulty in making decisions when the public/open space has not been determined. He prefers the study session format to review this project.
Commissioner Hudson reitereated the importance to have an inventory of the hardscape furniture and its location.
Furniture: inventory of every piece of furniture, trash receptacles, benches and a placement, lack benches along Belardo Road; needs to see a lot more.
Paseo behind Block A. individual movable chairs - the quantity and areas.
planters proposed and placement.
planters and placement, materials.
Commissioner Middleton would prefer to see this project come back to a study session with revised plans.
The Commission concurred the following items to included in the plans:
-Shade trees on Museum Way are needed.
-Study of trees used for canopy in several of the eating areas
-Drinking fountains and public restrooms.,
-Appropriate crosswalks.
-Exact amount of public and open space.
Commissioner Hudson said he is not satisfied with the amount of shade and quality of landscaping for this project. He agreed drinking fountains are needed, kiosks for information etc. He would like to see this project succeed but is not not convinced that that people with be drawn to these paseos.
1. Provide drinking fountains on each block.
2. Placement of bike racks.
3. Benches and seating on Belardo.
4. Provide more seating on Block A and B.
5. Provide a 2nd water feature
6. Tentative placement of bollards for pedestrian use.
7. More shade is needed throughout the project - Plaza on the southeast area and looking for design to provide guidance.
8. Clear delineation of the public spaces;
9. Use of the outdoor space and disclose future tenants;
10. Visualization of the lighting
11. Illustrations of plantings.
12. Opportunities for more public amenities in the paseo -
TOM DOZCI, TKD Associates, landscape architect, explained that all these details had been previously submitted and had received approval. He said since so much time has passed it would be a good idea to bring it back and addressed questions from the Commission.
Staff and the Commission discussed visiting the downtown to give them the opportunity to visit what is in progress and see what is in place.
Motion to approve Continue to a date uncertain. Moved by Vice-Chair Weremiuk, seconded by Commissioner Lowe.
Vote to approve Continue to a date uncertain. (Approved)
PLANNING COMMISSION REPORTS, REQUESTS AND COMMENTS:
Vice-Chair Weremiuk requested an update on the Vacation Rental Ordinance reviewed by the City Council.
Commissioner Middleton left for the remainder of the meeting at 4:59 pm.
PLANNING DIRECTOR'S REPORT:
Planning Director Fagg informed the Commission about the new attendance list for the Architectural Advisory Committee will be forthcoming.
ADJOURNMENT:
The Planning Commission adjourned at 5:00 pm to 1:30 pm, Wednesday, April 12, 2017, City Hall, Council Chamber, 3200 East Tahquitz Canyon Way.
Mar 22, 2017 Planning Commission
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CALL TO ORDER:
Vice-Chair Weremiuk called the meeting to order at 1:31 pm.
ROLL CALL:
Roll Call: 6 members present, 1 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 6:00 pm on Thursday, March 16, 2017.
ACCEPTANCE OF THE AGENDA:
PUBLIC COMMENTS:
Vice-Chair Weremiuk opened public comments:
The following persons spoke in opposition of Item 2A (Variance for off-site parking lot):
BRAD ZYLSTRA, spoke in opposition of the proposed off-site parking lot for the hotel.
LORRAINE ADAMSKI, spoke in opposition of the proposed off-site parking lot for the hotel and requested denial.
SHERRIE KILMAN, spoke in opposition of the off-site parking lot; noting that the neighborhood is at it's saturation with the Arrive Hotel and Draughtsman restaurant.
DAVID SILVER, requested denial of the parking lot because it provides no benefit to the neighborhood.
JOANNE FREEDMAN, spoke in opposition of parking variance; noting concern with the bus stop in front of the proposed parking lot.
There being no further speakers public comments was closed.
1. CONSENT CALENDAR:
1A. APPROVAL OF MINUTES: MARCH 8, 2017
Commissioner Hirschbein requested Item 1B pulled for separate discussion.
Commissioner Middleton requested Item 1C pulled for separate discussion.
Commissioner Donenfeld requested Item 1B pulled for separate discussion.
Vice-Chair Weremiuk requested Item 1A pulled for separate discussion.
Vice-Chair Weremiuk requested further clarification on the action taken for Item 2A.
Motion to approve Continue the minutes to April 12, 2017. Moved by Vice-Chair Weremiuk, seconded by Commissioner Donenfeld.
Vote to approve Continue the minutes to April 12, 2017. (Approved)
1B. FREEHOLD CAPITAL MANAGEMENT (FCM) LLC, REQUESTING A ONE-YEAR EXTENSION OF TIME FOR PHASE 2 (A PORTION) OF TENTATIVE TRACT MAP 31848, A PREVIOUSLY APPROVED SUBDIVISION FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF 1,150 RESIDENTIAL UNITS AND AMENITY CENTER LOCATED ALONG THE NORTH SIDE OF SAN RAFAEL ROAD, EAST OF NORTH INDIAN CANYON DRIVE, SOUTH OF THE WHITEWATER RIVER AND WEST OF SUNRISE WAY (CASE 5.0982-PD 290 / TTM 31848). (ER)
Motion to approve Approval of a one-year extension of time to the City Council. Moved by Commissioner Lowe, seconded by Commissioner Donenfeld.
Vote to approve Approval of a one-year extension of time to the City Council. (Approved)
1C. TRIO RESTAURANT, FOR AN ART MURAL APPLICATION ON A COMMERCIAL RESTAURANT BUILDING LOCATED AT 707 NORTH PALM CANYON DRIVE. (CASE 17-001 MUR). (GM)
Associate Planner Mlaker provided background information on the approval process for the proposed mural and answered questions from the Commission.
Vice-Chair Weremiuk commented that as a patron of the restaurant she liked the mural instead of a plain wall.
Motion to approve Approval with conditions. Moved by Commissioner Donenfeld, seconded by Commissioner Hudson.
Vote to approve Approval with conditions. (Approved)
1D. SCOTT COON FOR A MAJOR ARCHITECTURAL APPLICATION PROPOSING A SINGLE FAMILY RESIDENTIAL DWELLING UNIT ON A 10,324 SQUARE FOOT HILLSIDE LOT LOCATED AT 2347 SOUTH BISNAGA ROAD, ZONE R-1-B (CASE 3.2991 MAJ). (KL)
Associate Planner Lyon provided details on the sloping of the lot and addressed questions from the Commission.
Motion to approve Approval with conditions. Moved by Commissioner Lowe, seconded by Commissioner Hirschbein.
Vote to approve Approval with conditions. (Approved)
2. PUBLIC HEARINGS:
Commissioner Donenfeld reported that he resides in the Old Las Palmas neighborhood and although this project is not located within 500 ft. of his home for the transperancy and appropriateness he will recuse himself from this matter. He left the Council Chamber at 2:12 pm.
2A. 1875 NORTH PALM CANYON PARTNERS II, LLC (D/B/A TOVA HOTEL AND BEACH CLUB) REQUESTING A VARIANCE TO CONSTRUCT AN OFF-SITE PARKING LOT APPROXIMATELY 1,340-FEET FROM THE PROPERTY IT IS INTENDED TO SERVE, WHERE THE ZONING CODE WOULD ALLOW A MAXIMUM OF 300 FEET LOCATED AT 1425 NORTH PALM CANYON DRIVE, ZONE C-1/R-2. (Case 6.547 VAR) (GM)
Associate Planner Mlaker presented the proposed hotel requesting a variance to construct off-site parking.
Vice-Chair Weremiuk opened the public hearing:
TOM VENTURA, Gensler Architects, provided details on the previous hotel (2-star hotel) and the changes necessary to elevate this property to a 4-star hotel. Mr. Ventura described the exterior elevations, valet parking, traffic circulation, bus stop between entry ways, tandem spaces, landscape areas with 5' perimeter wall, full security (foot traffic) and low-10 ft. ambient lighting.
JIM BLASEN, behalf of the Old Las Palmas Neighborhood Organization, said they are in support of the Tova Hotel; however, are in opposition of the off-site parking. He noted concern with increase in traffic and believes there is a much better use for these lots to drive the economic development.
STEPHEN MOSES, neighborhood resident, commented that the valet drivers will go through the neighborhood and will not follow the route. He supports the Tova Hotel but is opposed to this parking concept.
STEVEN SIMMS, Casa De Oro, concerned about problems with traffic safety in this area and loud music coming from this hotel to accommodate the comforts of the patrons; spoke in opposition of the proposal.
ROBERT STONE, neighbor resident, commented that 3 of the 4 conditions of the Variance are not met. He likes the hotel proposal is beautiful but is in opposition of the parking concept.
CHARLY ASSALY, Prestige Management, CEO, (responded to public testimony) clarified that the traffic route will be followed as shown on the map. He said the current vacant lot attracts homeless people and proposal will benefit all the neighbors, provide jobs and benefit the city.
JANE SWEENY, La Siests Villa, commented about the hotel's website that promotes the two swimming pools and questioned the use if the property for day club use and not the restaurant.
TOM VENTURA, applicant, addressed the driving route that will be implemented. He indicated that the day-use will be for restaurant and spa (one swimming pool only).
There being no further speakers the public hearing was closed.
Comments:
Commissioner Hudson stated that he resides in the Old Las Palmas Neighborhood and is not within the 500 ft. of the property. He also attended the AAC meeting when this project was reviewed. Commissioner Hudson noted concern with the additional business component to the project (public use for the pool and bar) and would like to have this addressed.
Commissioner Hirschbein said he likes the hotel project and would like to see it move forward. He said to allow a lot term use of a parking lot on a commercial main street. He thinks the 200 sq. ft. restaurant is too large and would be more amenable to allow a parking plan on-site to allow parking for staff.
Commissioner Middleton concurs with Commissioners Hudson and Hirschbein. She said cannot support the Variance because there is adequate parking at the hotel for the existing use. She said the developer plans to change the use of the project and does not have adequate space for additional parking. She made a motion to deny the Variance.
Commissioner Lowe said he cannot support the off-site proposal because he thinks the 200 seat restaurant is inappropriate and is intended for large beach parties which will be inappropriate for the neighborhood.
Commissioner Hudson said he supports the Tova hotel project but questioned the large size of the restaurant. He lives in the neighborhood and thinks the valet drivers will take a shortcut through the neighborhood.
Vice-Chair Weremiuk agrees with staff for the denial and there are no special circumstances to allow the proposed parking with staff that there are no special circumstances that would allow parking so far away and is not good urban planning.
Motion to approve Denial. Moved by Commissioner Middleton, seconded by Commissioner Hudson.
Vote to approve Denial. (Approved)
Commissioner Donenfeld re-entered the chamber at 3:05 pm.
2B. 1875 NORTH PALM CANYON PARTNERS II, LLC, DBA - TOVA HOTEL AND BEACH CLUB FOR A CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT FOR A FULL SERVICE SPA; AND A 200-SEAT RESTAURANT/LOBBY BAR; AND A MAJOR ARCHITECTURAL APPLICATION FOR EXTERIOR BUILDING RENOVATIONS AND CONSTRUCTION OF A 15,000-SQUARE FOOT RESTAURANT BUILDING TO AN EXISTING HOTEL (FORMERLY THE GARDEN VISTA HOTEL) LOCATED AT 1875 NORTH PALM CANYON DRIVE (CASE 5.1382 CUP / 3.0157 MAA). (GM)
The Commission deliberated if this project should be heard given that the off-site parking was denied and the plans for the hotel need to be modified.
Motion to approve Continue to a date uncertain. Moved by Vice-Chair Weremiuk, seconded by Commissioner Donenfeld.
Vote to approve Continue to a date uncertain. (Approved)
A recess was taken at 3:12 pm.
The meeting resumed at 3:25 pm.
3C. DAKOTA PS, LLC REQUESTING AN AMENDMENT TO AN APPROVED PLANNED DEVELOPMENT DISTRICT TO ELIMINATE ONE UNIT AND INSTALL A TRAILHEAD AT THE SOUTH END OF THE 6.37-ACRE DEVELOPMENT KNOWN AS "DAKOTA" LOCATED AT 1501 SOUTH BELARDO ROAD, ZONE PD-365, SECTION 22 (CASE 5.1310 PD-365 AMEND). (DN)
Staff reported the applicant requested this Item be continued to the April 26, 2017 meeting.
Motion to approve Continue to a date certain of April 26, 2017. Moved by Commissioner Donenfeld, seconded by Commissioner Lowe.
Vote to approve Continue to a date certain of April 26, 2017. (Approved)
Item 4A, was taken out of order
4A. JMN SERVICES FOR A MAJOR ARCHITECTURAL APPLICATION TO CONSTRUCT AN OFFICE, WAREHOUSE, AND RETAIL GARDEN CENTER ON A 1.37-ACRE PARCEL LOCATED AT 710 RESEARCH DRIVE (CASE 3.3999 MAJ). (KL)
Associate Planner Lyon provided an overview on the proposed office, warehouse and retail garden center as outlined in the staff report.
Comments:
Commissioner Donenfeld said it's a refined, beautiful project particularly for this type of use.
Commissioners Middleton and Hudson spoke in favor of the proposed project.
Commissioner Lowe said he attend the AAC meeting when this project was reviewed and saw the details. He thinks it's an incredibly creative project and made a motion for approval.
Motion to approve Approval subject to conditions. Moved by Commissioner Lowe, seconded by Commissioner Hudson.
Vote to approve Approval subject to conditions. (Approved)
4. NEW BUSINESS:
3. UNFINISHED BUSINESS:
3A. FAR WEST INDUSTRIES, INC. FOR A REVISED FINAL PLANNED DEVELOPMENT DISTRICT APPLICATION FOR "ICON" (FORMERLY "ALVARADO AT THE ART COLONY", A PROPOSED GATED DEVELOPMENT OF 46, TWO-STORY DETACHED CONDOMINIUM DWELLING UNITS ON A 5.23-ACRE SITE LOCATED AT THE SOUTHWEST CORNER OF NORTH PALM CANYON DRIVE AND ALVARADO ROAD (CASE 5.1340 / PDD 370) / 3.3742 MAJ). (KL)
Motion to approve Continue to a date certain of April 12, 2017. Moved by Commissioner Donenfeld, seconded by Commissioner Lowe.
Vote to approve Continue to a date certain of April 12, 2017. (Approved)
3D. PALM SPRINGS PROMENADE, LLC FOR AN AMENDMENT TO THE APPROVED LANDSCAPE AND HARDSCAPE PLANS FOR DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS WITHIN THE DOWNTOWN PALM SPRINGS SPECIFIC PLAN LOCATED GENERALLY AT THE NORTHWEST CORNER OF PALM CANYON DRIVE AND TAHQUITZ CANYON WAY, ZONE CBD (CASE NOS. 5.1290 PD-361, 3.3605 MAJ, 3.3606 MAJ, 3.3607 MAJ, 3.3785 MAJ, 3.3908 MAJ AND 3.3948 MAJ). (DN)
Planning Director Fagg reported that a study session was held this morning to review this project and no formal action was taken.
Associate Planner Newell provided details on the proposed modifications to the landscape and hardscape plans as outlined in the staff report.
Vice-Chair Weremiuk opened the public hearing:
MICHAEL JOHNSTON, suggested the chairs for the public, canopy structure with lighting and misters. He suggested in long concrete walking spaces could include tall planters, tree planters in restaurants (natural shade) and in-ground planter to separate public and restaurant, wall on the Hyatt hopes to add a green wall that ends the paseo.
There being no further speakers the public hearing was closed.
Planning Director Fagg summarized the comments from the City Council subcommittee meeting held on March 8, 2017.
Commissioner Hudson thinks there are further improvements that can be made.
Vice-Chair Weremiuk stated the following items were discussed were:
-The crossing between Block C and Block B.
-Water features.
-Public benches and walkways
-Change plants in planter area
-Bollards
Commissioner Hirschbein:
-Parking bays or parallel parking be dedicated to bike racks;
-Include a second water feature in appropriate location;
-Additional information on concrete pavers and bollards;
-Provide a complete inventory on the hardspace furniture (lounge seating, benches etc.)
-Would like to see the shade structures gazebo structure with wood instead of the sail cloth struture
-Provide additional public seating areas.
Commissioner Lowe noted concern with the how much real public space there will be until the plans are submitted for the restaurants. He thinks minimum standards should be set for public and open-space.
Commissioner Middleton noted concern about the intrusion of the outdoor restaurant onto the public space (sidewalk of Block C along Palm Canyon) and on the northwest corner (Block C). She find the
crosswalks on Museum Way very problematic. She would like to understand how this will interact with Block B.
Commissioner Donenfeld commented about the difficulty in making decisions when the public/open space has not been determined. He prefers the study session format to review this project.
Commissioner Hudson reitereated the importance to have an inventory of the hardscape furniture and its location.
Furniture: inventory of every piece of furniture, trash receptacles, benches and a placement, lack benches along Belardo Road; needs to see a lot more.
Paseo behind Block A. individual movable chairs - the quantity and areas.
planters proposed and placement.
planters and placement, materials.
Commissioner Middleton would prefer to see this project come back to a study session with revised plans.
The Commission concurred the following items to included in the plans:
-Shade trees on Museum Way are needed.
-Study of trees used for canopy in several of the eating areas
-Drinking fountains and public restrooms.,
-Appropriate crosswalks.
-Exact amount of public and open space.
Commissioner Hudson said he is not satisfied with the amount of shade and quality of landscaping for this project. He agreed drinking fountains are needed, kiosks for information etc. He would like to see this project succeed but is not not convinced that that people with be drawn to these paseos.
1. Provide drinking fountains on each block.
2. Placement of bike racks.
3. Benches and seating on Belardo.
4. Provide more seating on Block A and B.
5. Provide a 2nd water feature
6. Tentative placement of bollards for pedestrian use.
7. More shade is needed throughout the project - Plaza on the southeast area and looking for design to provide guidance.
8. Clear delineation of the public spaces;
9. Use of the outdoor space and disclose future tenants;
10. Visualization of the lighting
11. Illustrations of plantings.
12. Opportunities for more public amenities in the paseo -
TOM DOZCI, TKD Associates, landscape architect, explained that all these details had been previously submitted and had received approval. He said since so much time has passed it would be a good idea to bring it back and addressed questions from the Commission.
Staff and the Commission discussed visiting the downtown to give them the opportunity to visit what is in progress and see what is in place.
Motion to approve Continue to a date uncertain. Moved by Vice-Chair Weremiuk, seconded by Commissioner Lowe.
Vote to approve Continue to a date uncertain. (Approved)
PLANNING COMMISSION REPORTS, REQUESTS AND COMMENTS:
Vice-Chair Weremiuk requested an update on the Vacation Rental Ordinance reviewed by the City Council.
Commissioner Middleton left for the remainder of the meeting at 4:59 pm.
PLANNING DIRECTOR'S REPORT:
Planning Director Fagg informed the Commission about the new attendance list for the Architectural Advisory Committee will be forthcoming.
ADJOURNMENT:
The Planning Commission adjourned at 5:00 pm to 1:30 pm, Wednesday, April 12, 2017, City Hall, Council Chamber, 3200 East Tahquitz Canyon Way.
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