HomeMy WebLinkAbout011503 PC MinutesMINUTES OF A REGULAR MEETING
OF THE CITY OF TEMECULA
PLANNING COMMISSION
JANUARY 15, 2003
CALL TO ORDER
The City of Temecula Planning Commission convened in a regular meeting at 6:00 P.M.,
on Wednesday, January 15, 2003, in the City Council Chambers of Temecula City Hall,
43200 Business Park Drive, Temecula, California.
ALLEGIANCE
The audience was led in the Flag salute by Chairman Chiniaeff.
ROLLCALL
Present:
Commissioners Guerriero, Mathewson, OIhasso, Telesio,
and Chairman Chiniaeff.
Absent: None.
Also Present:
Deputy City Manager Thornhill,
Director of Planning Ubnoske,
Assistant City Attorney Curley,
Battalion Chief McBride,
Senior Engineer Alegria,
Principal Planner Hazen,
Associate Planner Harris,
Associate Planner Rush,
Associate Planner Thornsley, and
Minute Clerk Hansen.
PUBLIC COMMENTS
No comments.
CONSENT CALENDAR
1 Aqenda
RECOMMENDATION:
1.1 Approve the Agenda of January 15, 2003.
Director's Hearin,cl Case Update
RECOMMENDATION:
2.1 Approve the Director's Hearing Case Update for December 2002.
R:PlanComm/minutes/011503 I
It is noted that this item was pulled for separate consideration.
MOTION: Commissioner Olhasso moved to approve Consent Calendar Item Nos. 1, and
to pull Item No. 2 for separate consideration. The motion was seconded by
Commissioner Guerriero and voice vote reflected unanimous approval.
At this time the Planning Commission considered Consent Calendar Item No. 2.
2 Director's Hearin.q Case Update
RECOMMENDATION:
2.1 Approve the Director's Hearing Case Update for December 2002.
For Chairman Chiniaeff, Principal Planner Hazen relayed that since Director's Hearing
Case No. PA02-0622 was regarding a proposal for a Minor CUP, and was exempt from
the requirements of a Finding of Public Convenience or Necessity (PCN), it was handled
at the Director's Hearing. Director of Planning Ubnoske advised that restaurants did not
require the PCN, as per State Law.
MOTION: Commissioner Olhasso moved to approve Consent Calendar Item No. 2. The
motion was seconded by Chairman Chiniaeff and voice vote reflected unanimous
approval.
COMMISSION BUSINESS
PUBLIC HEARING ITEMS
3 Planninq Application No. PA02-0397 A Development Plan to construct, operate and
establish an 11,642 square foot executive office buildinq located at 27247 Madison
Avenue, north of Sanborn Avenue, Rolfe Preisendanz, Assistant Planner
RECOMMENDATION:
3.1 Adopt the Notice of Exemption for Planning Application No. PA02-0397
(Development Plan); pursuant to Section 15332 of the California Environmental
Quality Act;
3.2 Adopt a resolution entitled:
PC RESOLUTION NO. 2003-001
A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF
THE CITY OF TEMECULA APPROVING PLANNING
APPLICATION NO. PA02-0397, A DEVELOPMENT
PLAN TO CONSTRUCT, OPERATE AND ESTABLISH
AN 11,642 SQUARE FOOT EXECUTIVE OFFICE
BUILDING ON A VACANT .95 ACRE SITE, LOCATED
AT 27247 MADISON AVENUE, NORTH OF SANBORN,
KNOWN AS ASSESSORS PARCEL NO. 910-272-012.
R:PlanComm/minutes/011503 2
Via color renderings overhead, Assistant Planner Preisendanz presented the staff
repod (of record), highlighting the revisions to the plan the applicant had implemented
in response to the Planning Commission recommendations, noting the added
projected structural offset in the center of the building, the enhancements to the
parapet cap and the addition of four light sconces; advised that the applicant did not
incorporate a revision in the canvas awning design although the Planning
Commission had recommended this modification; and noted alternate architectural
enhancements included in this particular proposal.
For Commissioner Guerriero, Assistant Planner Preisendanz confirmed that the
applicant had relayed at the last hearing the CC&Rs restriction which prohibited a tile
roof from being installed in this business center; for Commissioner Telesio, provided
additional information regarding the added projecting architectural treatment on the
front elevation; in response to Chairman Chiniaeff's queries regarding the
implementation of curved windows on the front of the building and not on the side
elevations, relayed the applicant's goal keep the alternate elevations simpler; and
noted that the cap element on the building was a flat plain treatment.
Mr. Kevin Brown, the applicant, provided additional information regarding the rationale
for the windows being arched on the front elevation, noting that these offices would
most likely have higher ceilings; with respect to the straight awnings, noted that the
Bel Villagio project (a project the Planning Commission had recommended that the
applicant visit) had also incorporated straight awnings, advising that on the sides of
the awnings wrought iron spear treatments would most likely be added and the
awnings made larger; for Commissioner Telesio, relayed that there would be four
large wrought iron coach-style lighting fixtures on the front of the building; and with
respect to an alternate rendering depicting eight fixtures, confirmed his preference for
four fixtures, advising that when the building was being constructed it would be a
better time to gauge the mass of the building and implement the additional treatments
needed to create balance.
Referencing photographs he had taken of the Bel Villagio Project, Chairman Chiniaeff
advised that the addition of a similar pop-out treatment in the center of the front
elevation of this proposed project would aid in breaking up the linear appearance. In
response, Mr. Brown relayed his desire to maintain the linear appearance in order to
implement a plan consistent with a timeless classic design style.
Mr. Patricia Herron, architect representing the applicant, referenced the photographs
of the Bel Villagio project, noting that that was a different type of project since it was
retail whereas this particular project would be utilized for offices; and cautioned the
Planning Commission with respect to recommending that too many light fixtures be
added which could create a negative visual appearance.
For Commissioner Telesio, Ms. Herron specified that there were four light fixtures
proposed; and noted, for Commissioner Mathewson, that she was unaware that one
of the drawings denoted eight light fixtures.
In light of the restrictions on this project due to the existing CC&Rs, which govern the
roofing material, Commissioners Guerriero and Telesio relayed that they could
support the proposal.
R:PlanComm/minutes/011503 3
Although he was not excited regarding the proposed design, Commissioner
Mathewson relayed that he would not deny approval of this project; and noted his
desire to hear the comments of the Planning Commission.
Commissioner Olhasso recommended that a tile inset treatment be added on the front
elevation as well as a pop-out treatment, which had been previously recommended by
Chairman Chiniaeff.
Chairman Chiniaeff advised that the building still had a box-like appearance, opining
that the applicant could have implemented improvements; and recommended that the
parapet be offset with the width of the cornice to break up the massing.
Commissioner Guerriero relayed that he could support the recommendation to add
tile insets.
The applicant provided the rationale for not desiring the implementation of tile inset
treatments.
MOTION: Commissioner Guerriero moved to close the public hearing; and to approve
staff's recommendation. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Telesio and voice
vote reflected approval with the exception of Chairman Chiniaeff who voted n_9o.
4
Planninq Application No. PA02-0387 & PA02-0388 Application to construct, establish
and operate a 30,000 square foot office buildinq and to subdivide the site into two
parcels of 1.41 acres and 4.28 acres respectively located on the east side of County
Center Drive, approximately 740 feet north of Ynez Road (APN 910-110-045),
Matthew Harris, Associate Planner
RECOMMENDATION:
4.1 Requesting a continuance to February 19, 2003
Associate Planner Harris relayed that staff had received a request from the applicant
requesting a withdrawal of the proposal.
It is noted that this Item was withdrawn.
5
Planninq Application No. PA02-0587 to construct, establish and operate two-story
western re.qional corporate offices for KTM Motorcycles totalinq 43,161 square feet
includinq research and development facilities and associated 2.06 acre outdoor test
field located on the west side of Via Industria, between Roick Drive and Rio Nedo,
Matthew Harris, Associate Planner
RECOMMENDATION:
5.1 Adopt a Determination of Consistency exemption for Planning Application No.
PA02-0587 (Development Plan) pursuant to Section 15162 of the California
Environmental Quality Act;
5.2 Adopt a resolution entitled:
R:PlanComm/minutes/O 11503 4
PC RESOLUTION NO. 2003-002
A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF
THE CITY OF TEMECULA APPROVING PLANNING
APPLICATION NO. PA02-0587, A DEVELOPMENT
PLAN TO CONSTRUCT, ESTABLISH AND OPERATE
REGIONAL CORPORATE OFFICES FOR KTM
MOTORCYCLES TOTALING 43,161 SQUARE FEET,
INCLUDING ASSOCIATED RESEARCH AND
DEVELOPMENT FACILITIES AND OUTDOOR
MOTORCYCLE TEST AREA. THE SITE IS GENERALLY
LOCATED ON THE WEST SIDE OF VIA INDUSTRIA
BETWEEN ROICK DRIVE AND RIO NEDO ALSO
KNOWN AS ASSESSORS PARCEL NO. 909-320-001
THRU 004.
Commissioner Guerriero advised that he would be abstaining from this item, and left the
dais at this time.
By way of overhead maps, Associate Planner Harris provided an overview of the project
(of record), highlighting the proposed location, the site layout, the parking provisions, the
two-acre test field, the architectural design which would be similar to the company's
headquarters which was located in Austria, the three vertical elements, the proposed
color application, the drought tolerant landscape plan, and the noise analysis which
revealed that there would be no significant impacts; and advised that the applicant has
agreed to construct an eight-foot berm along the frontage of the project and a seven-foot
concrete wall on top of that (which was not required.)
Mr. Walt Allen, architect representing the applicant, noted the plan to fast-rack the
project, advising that staff was so efficient that it was the applicant who held the project
up; commended the following individuals for their diligent efforts regarding this project:
Deputy City Manager Thornhill, Principal Planner Hazen, Associate Planner Harris,
Landscape Architect Elliot, Senior Engineer Alegria, Assistant Engineer Bostre-Le,
Battalion Chief McBride, Deputy Building Official Harold, and Senior Inspector Smith;
and for informational purposes, relayed that his padner was almost singularly
responsible for the proposed design of this project.
Mr. John Zolikoff, representing the applicant, for Commissioner Mathewson, provided
additional information regarding the noise study, confirming that seven motorcycles
would be the maximum being tested at one time, that the noise levels from the
motorcycles varied per the use of varying types of silencers, that all of their motorcycles
had some type of silencer, that with the incorporation of the berm and the wall (which
was not required) the decibels would be further decreased; noted the applicant's desire
to be a good neighbor; confirmed that seven motorcycles were utilized in the study; and
echoed Mr. Allen's comments regarding staff's wonderful work regarding this project.
For Commissioner Mathewson, Principal Planner Hazen relayed that staff was present
when the noise study was conducted, advising that the study did not take into
consideration the added berm and wall. Deputy City Manager Thornhill provided
additional information regarding the noise readings taken up on the ridge (while he was
present) which would not negatively impact any residents; relayed that the project was
R:PlanComm/minutes/011503 5
conditioned to address any noise impacts if it were determined that there were negative
impacts in the future at this use; and noted that there were no noise sensitive uses in the
Industrial Zones.
For Chairman Chiniaeff, the applicant relayed that the height of the colored band at the
top of the building was 33 feet.
Commissioner Olhasso relayed that she was pleased with the architecture, that it was a
benefit to the City to have this company's regional headquarters in Temecula; and
commended staff and the architecture with respect to this project.
Thanking staff for the clarification regarding the noise study, Commissioner Mathewson
relayed that he was pleased with the proposed design and would support the proposal.
Commissioner Telesio welcomed the applicant to the City of Temecula, which was
echoed by Chairman Chiniaeff.
MOTION: Commissioner Mathewson moved to close the public hearing; and to approve
staff's recommendation. The motion was seconded by Commissioner OIhasso and voice
vote reflected approval with the exception of Commissioner Guerriero who abstained.
6
Planninq Application No. PA02-0308 A Proposal to construct and operate two
industrial/warehouse buildinqs totalinq 22,664 square feet (Buildin.q A at 11,204
square feet and Building B at 11,460 square feet) on a 1.97-acre parcel located on
the west side of Bostik Court, approximately 330 feet south of Winchester Road,
Thomas Thornsley, Associate Planner
RECOMMENDATION:
6.1 Adopt a Notice of Exemption for Planning Application No. PA02o0308
(Development Plan) pursuant to Section 15332 of the California Environmental
Quality Act;
6.2 Adopt a resolution entitled:
PC RESOLUTION NO. 2003-003
A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF
THE CITY OF TEMECULA APPROVING PLANNING
APPLICATION NO. PA02-0308, A DEVELOPMENT
PLAN TO CONSTRUCT AND OPERATE TWO
INDUSTRIAL BUILDINGS FOR WAREHOUSE,
MANUFACTURING AND OFFICE USE, TOTALING
22,664 SQUARE FEET (WITH BUILDING "A" AT 11,204
SQUARE FEET AND BUILDING "B" AT 11,460 SQUARE
FEET). THE SITE IS GENERALLY LOCATED ON THE
WEST SIDE OF BOSTIK COURT, APPROXIMATELY 330
FEET SOUTH OF WINCHESTER ROAD KNOWN AS
ASSESSORS PARCEL NO. 909-360-037
R:PlanCom m/minutes/011503 6
Via renderings, Associate Planner Thornsley presented the staff report (per agenda
material), highlighting the location, the access point, the architectural design, the
enhanced articulations, the proposed color application, and the landscape plan
including the proposal to landscape the slope.
Mr. Shane Shaw, representing the applicant, provided a history of his experience with
Associate Planner Associate Planner Thornsley, noting that he had provided
recommendations for the applicant to further enhance the project, commending
Associate Planner Thornsley for his great work regarding this project; and with
respect to the slope at the rear of the property, relayed the concerns regarding the
weekly maintenance of landscaping this area due to the two-to-one sloping, noting
that the applicant was open to suggestions of the Planning Commission regarding this
matter.
Mr. Kelli Jones, representing the Westside Business Center Association, read into the
record a letter dated December 17, 2002, from the Association, outlining the Board's
concerns regarding maintenance of the proposed landscaping on the slope; and for
Chairman Chiniaeff, confirmed that the Association was opposed to this portion of the
landscape plan, noting that this proposal would not be consistent with the existing
development in this area.
Associate Planner Thornsley relayed that he had attempted to call the Association's
representative but that he had been provided the wrong phone number on the
previous referenced letter; advised that when this area was mapped, the Mitigation
Monitoring Program required that these slopes be landscaped per the City's
landscape standards ergo the development of this particular landscaping proposal on
the slope; noted that most slopes in the City were two-to-one slopes; and confirmed
that there was a mix of trees proposed on the slope, for Commissioner Mathewson,
noting that most of the plantings were groundcover plants which would not require
weekly maintenance.
Mr. Don Slater, the applicant, relayed that in this area there was not one other slope
planted as per the City's landscape standards, querying why this one project would
be required to add this landscaping.
For Chairman Chiniaeff, Ms. Jones confirmed that currently the Business Association
maintains the slopes in this area.
In response to Commissioner Mathewson, Associate Planner Thornsley provided
additional information regarding the existing landscaping at the developed sites in this
area.
Mr. Brian Murphy, 38332 Corte Algera, property owner in this area, relayed that he,
too, was opposed to the higher landscape standards being imposed on this project,
advising that the Planning Commission's determination regarding this issue would
impact the project he was in the midst of planning in this area.
For clarification, Director of Planning Ubnoske relayed that this tract map was subject
to being conditioned to landscape per the City's landscape standards (via the
Development Code); advised that if the applicant had concerns regarding
maintenance that the applicant should pursue installation of drought tolerant plants,
R:PlanComm/minutes/011503 7
noting that staff could work with the applicant to investigate planting a different
species of plant if that was the direction of the Planning Commission, Deputy Director
of Public Works Parks provided additional information regarding it being typical that
landscaping would be enhanced when development occurred.
Mr. Shaw relayed that the applicant would be agreeable to being conditioned to work
with staff regarding alternatives for the landscape plan subject to the approval of staff.
MOTION: Commissioner Guerriero moved to continue this item in order that staff could
work with the applicant regarding alternatives with respect to the landscape plan.
(Ultimately this motion died for lack of a second.)
Commissioner Mathewson advised that would not support reducing the number of
plantings solely because alternate projects had not been conditioned as such.
Commissioner Telesio relayed that he would support moving forward with the proposal,
and that the applicant work with staff regarding implementing drought tolerant plantings
as long as the minimum Code requirements were met.
Director of Planning Ubnoske relayed that Condition No. 9 (regarding landscaping) could
be amended to reference the Planning Commission direction.
.MOTION: Commissioner Guerriero moved to close the public hearing; and to approve
staff's recommendation, subject to the following:
Modify-
That Condition No. 9 be revised to state that a landscape plan shall be
submitted and approved per the satisfaction of the Director of Planning and in
conformance with the Design Guidelines.
The motion was seconded by Commissioner Telesio and voice vote reflected unanimous
approval.
7
Planninq Application No. PA02-0272, PA02-0271, PA02-0273, and PA02-0274 A
General Plan Amendment to amend the General Plan land use desi.qnation from
Neighborhood Commercial to Community Commercial, A Specific Plan Amendment
for the Marqarita Villaqe Specific Plan to amend the land use desiqnation of Planninq
Area 19 from Neiqhborhood Commercial to Community Commercial and to amend
the text within the Specific Plan, A Development Plan for the desiqn, construction
and operation of a 48,427 square foot .qrocery store, a 16,640 square foot druf:l store,
a 11,230 square foot shop building, a 10,000 square foot shop buildin~h and a 8,780
square foot shop buildinq, A Conditional Use Permit to operate a drive throuqh at a
16,640 square foot drug store, and to permit the sale of alcohol at a 48,427 square
foot grocery store and a 16,640 square foot druR store located on the south side of
Rancho California Road and east of Meadows Parkway, Rick Rush, Associate
Planner
RECOMMENDATION:
7.1 Adopt a resolution entitled:
R:PlanComm/minutes/011503 8
PC RESOLUTION NO. 2003-
A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF
THE CITY OF TEMECULA RECOMMENDING THE CITY
COUNCIL DENY PLANNING APPLICATION NO. PA02-
0272, A GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT TO AMEND
THE GENERAL PLAN LAND USE DESIGNATION FROM
NEIGHBORHOOD COMMERCIAL TO COMMUNITY
COMMERCIAL, GENERALLY LOCATED SOUTH OF
RANCHO CALIFORNIA ROAD AND EAST OF
MEADOWS PARKWAY AND KNOWN AS ASSESSORS
PARCEL NO. 954-030-001.
7.2 Adopt a resolution entitled:
PC RESOLUTION NO. 2003-
A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF
THE CITY OF TEMECULA RECOMMENDING THE CITY
COUNCIL DENY PLANNING APPLICATION NO. PA02-
0271, A SPECIFIC PLAN AMENDMENT FOR THE
MARGARITA VILLAGE SPECIFIC PLAN TO AMEND
THE LAND USE DESIGNATION OF PLANNING AREA
19 FROM NEIGHBORHOOD COMMERCIAL TO
COMMUNITY COMMERCIAL AND AMENDING THE
TEXT WITHIN THE SPECIFIC PLAN, FOR PROPERTY
GENERALLY LOCATED SOUTH OF RANCHO
CALIFORNIA ROAD AND EAST OF MEADOWS
PARKWAY AND KNOWN AS ASSESSORS PARCEL
NO. 954-030-001.
7.3 Adopt a resolution entitled:
PC RESOLUTION NO. 2003-
A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF
THE CITY OF TEMECULA RECOMMENDING THE CITY
COUNCIL DENY PLANNING APPLICATION NO. PA02-
0273, A DEVELOPMENT PLAN FOR THE DESIGN,
CONSTRUCTION AND OPERATION OF A 48,427
SQUARE FOOT GROCERY STORE, A 16,640 SQUARE
FOOT DRUG STORE, A 11,230 SQUARE FOOT SHOP
BUILDING, A 10,000 SQUARE FOOT SHOP BUILDING
AND A 8,780 SQUARE FOOT SHOP BUILDING,
GENERALLY LOCATED SOUTH OF RANCHO
CALIFORNIA ROAD AND EAST OF MEADOWS
PARKWAY AND KNOWN AS ASSESSORS PARCEL
NO. 954-030-001.
7.4 Adopt a resolution entitled:
R:PlanComm/minutes/011503 9
PC RESOLUTION NO. 2003-
A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF
THE CITY OF TEMECULA RECOMMENDING THE CITY
COUNCIL DENY PLANNING APPLICATION NO. PA02-
0274, A CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT TO OPERATE A
DRIVE THROUGH AT A 16,640 SQUARE FOOT DRUG
STORE, AND TO PERMIT THE SALE OF ALCOHOL AT
A 48,427 SQUARE FOOT GROCERY STORE AND A
16,640 SQUARE FOOT DRUG STORE, GENERALLY
LOCATED SOUTH OF RANCHO CALIFORNIA ROAD
AND EAST OF MEADOWS PARKWAY AND KNOWN AS
ASSESSORS PARCEL NO. 954-030-001.
Commissioner Guerriero advised that he would be abstaining from this Item and left the
dais at this time.
Staff presented the project plan
Associate Planner Rush relayed that this matter had been continued from December 4,
2002 for the following reasons: 1) legal concerns, which were raised by the applicant at
the last meeting, and 2) recommended site design modifications.
Noting the research conducted, Assistant City Attorney Curley relayed that the Zoning
and the General Plan Land Use Designation (Neighborhood Commercial) that staff has
been relying on was correct; provided additional information regarding ex parte
communications with respect to this project, noting that a staff member had called and
queried the Commissioners as to whether they had provided specific direction to staff to
bring back a form of approval for this particular proposal; clarified that during this
questioning there were no deliberations, or efforts to form a consensus or to direct the
Planning Commission. For the record, Commissioners Olhasso, Mathewson, and
Chiniaeff confirmed Assistant City Attorney Curley's statements regarding staff
questioning the Commissioners with respect to direction that had been provided by the
Planning Commission at the December 4, 2002 meeting, Commissioner Telesio noting
that he did not receive a telephone call.
Providing an overview of the proposal, Associate Planner Rush relayed the following:
That per the Planning Commission's direction, the applicant and staff met on
December 26th to discuss staff's concerns regarding the site plan;
That the following concerns were addressed: 1) the east driveway entrance
was moved further west, 2) the throat area was increased, 3) the drive-
through for the drug store was relocated, 4) the building at the rear of the site
was removed and the square footage added to an alternate building, 5) the
trash enclosure and loading area issues were addressed regarding Shop C,
and 6) the loading dock was relocated.
That the following concerns were not addressed to staff's satisfaction: 1 ) the
proposal still identified two additional access points which negatively impact
internal circulation (staff recommending that there be one access point off of
R:PlanComm/minutes/011503 10
each of the two streets, 2) adequate pedestrian linkages have not been
created internally, and the buildings have not been clustered.
That based on additional research, this site was approximately 8.49 acres (without
the slope or the equestrian easement) which was closer to a Neighborhood
Commercial designation than a Community Commercial designation;
Referencing the table on page 4 of the staff report, indicated that there were no
existing large-scale grocery stores in the City of Temecula on a parcel this small;
and for Commissioner Mathewson, confirmed that the figures denoting the acreage
of each site were net figures, i.e., calculated without slopes;
Chairman Chiniaeff relayed that all of the grocery stores denoted on the table
were either within a mixed use project or a strip center, advising that the
proposed project would primarily be a market; and relayed that with respect to
the lack of pedestrian orientation with the proposed project, that not one of the
grocery stores on the table were designed so that an individual could park and
walk to all the buildings in the center, as staff had recommended being
implemented into this project plan;
Principal Planner Hazen clarified that staff's intent with the table was to indicate
that when the applicant had stated that the proposed site was too large to be
zoned as Neighborhood Commercial, that in the City of Temecula existing
large-scale grocery stores were sited on larger commercial sites, as well as to
demonstrate that these alternate sites were buffered by streets or non-single-
family residential uses.
The applicant provided an overview of the proposal
Regarding this particular project, Mr. John Clement, the applicant, relayed the following:
· That revisions were incorporated into the project at the request of staff;
That all of the residents residing adjacent to the slope were notified (via a hand-
delivered letter delivered approximately ten days ago) of the new site plan; that the
applicant offered to meet and discuss the plan, that the applicant received one
phone call and one letter in response, and that last night (January 14th) the applicant
met with Mr. Harris and his family to discuss the site plan.
That while the applicant disagreed with Assistant City Attorney Curley's findings
regarding the Zoning and the Land Use designation, it was the applicant's desire to
move forward with the project, relaying hopes that an agreement could be reached;
· That the site was 9.77 acres per a survey that was conducted;
That it was the applicant's opinion that a single entrance to the site would not be
appropriate, and that the two proposed entrances on each of the two streets have
been reviewed and processed through the Public Works Department;
R:PlanComm/minutes/011503 11
For Commissioner Mathewson, clarified that staff had recommended that the market
be relocated, and that the previous location which aligned the market away from the
homes was the applicant's preference;
· That of the 15 new comments staff provided regarding the project, the applicant was
able to satisfy 12 of those comments;
Mr. Brian Wolf, architect representing the applicant, relayed the following information
regarding the project:
That with respect to the pedestrian linkages, there was an 8-foot wide connection
with a lavender hedge, olive trees, and benches which created a pedestrian
orientation, additionally noting the seating area buffered to the landscaped slope,
and the 30-foot-by-100-foot hardscaped opportunity for seating with landscaping;
· That the corner tower treatment has been enhanced;
· That with respect to the relocation of the drive-through at staff's request, noted his
preference to the previous plan;
· That with respect to the driveway issues, singular access (on each street) would be
problematic;
· That with respect to the reorientation of the loading area, that he supported this
revision;
· That the entry statement had been improved; and
· That part of the landscaping setback was an equestrian trail, which would be an
added community amenity, advising that this area would serve as an effective buffer.
Providing additional clarification, Mr. Clement noted the following:
That the hours of operation for the proposed Vons and Sav-On uses would be from
6:00 A.M. to 12:00 A.M., noting Von's written agreement to restrict trucking deliveries
to the hours of 7:00 A.M. to 9:00 P.M., advising, for Commissioner Mathewson, that
Sav-On has verbally agreed to match Vons restrictions;
· That the applicant had requested the Zone change (to Community Commercial) at
the direction of staff; and
That this proposal was actually a Neighborhood Commercial project with consistent
uses, under the total allowable building area, well in excess of the required distance
to residential, well under the height restrictions, and that the sole consideration for an
exception was the allotment of the size of the market, proposed to be 48,000 square
feet.
For Commissioner Mathewson, Mr. Wolf confirmed that the pavement would be
enhanced in the pedestrian area, noting alternate treatments proposed in this area, i.e.,
a fountain, seating amenities, light posts, and tree grates.
R:PlanCemm/minutes/011503 12
In response to Commissioner Mathewson, Mr. Clement relayed that the mechanical roof
equipment would be integral to the building and fully enclosed architecturally, Mr. Wolf
clarifying that the applicant was willing to treat this screening architecturally to match the
cornice of the building, advising that on the smaller buildings the equipment would be
screened behind the parapets; and noted that if there was concern, a roof screen could
be incorporated on the smaller buildings.
With respect to the enclosed loading dock, for Commissioner Mathewson, Mr. Clement
relayed that the noise study was conducted without consideration of the full enclosure;
for Chairman Chiniaeff, relayed that the dock would be fully enclosed with a roof and
sides, advising that the door mechanism would be similar to a garage door, which rolled
up onto the roof.
For Commissioner Mathewson, Principal Planner Hazen relayed that it was his
understanding that the block wall on the property line would serve as the mitigation for
the noise impacts for the truck loading area.
Referencing the Initial Study Document, Mr. Larry Markham, representing the applicant,
noted that on page 14, in Section 11 a., c., the study indicated that the source of the
noise impacts was from vehicles traveling on Rancho California Road and Meadows
Parkway, advising that the enclosure would mitigate this particular impact; for
Commissioner Mathewson, noted that Item No. 10 on page 14 (of the Initial Study)
required the truck engines to be turned off during delivery operations. Chairman
Chiniaeff advised that an updated noise study would be important for the applicant to
provide, one in which the enclosure was taken into consideration.
For Chairman Chiniaeff, Mr. Clement advised that the drive-through has always been
pad of the Sav-On proposal, but that he could question the Save-On representatives as
to whether inclusion of the drive-through was a deal-breaker issue for this use.
The public was invited to comment
The following individuals spoke in opposition to the project, as proposed:
Mr. Tony Harris
Ms. Pamela Stangl
Ms. Devin Darmento
Mr. Paul Jacobs
Ms. Christine Crawford
Mr. Mike Crawford
Mr. Don McLaughlin
41629 Code Higuera
31945 Camino Higuera
41665 Code Higuera
32370 Corte Zamora
32057 Code La Puerta
32057 Code La Pueda
32205 Code Chatado
The above-mentioned individuals spoke in opposition to the proposal, due to the
following concerns:
o The noise, light, and traffic impacts;
o Safety issues proximate to the middle school and the Association's playing fields
along Meadows Parkway due to the increased traffic;
o Alcohol being sold so near to the school and the residential development,
recommending that the Planning Commission deny approval based on the two
additional alcohol licenses this proposal included;
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Questioned the need for another strip center;
Environmental concerns, i.e., rainwater run-off, the hillside, trash overflow, and the
handling of the trash at the market without a trash compactor;
o Encroachment intowine country;
o Truck delivery impacts;
o Truck access;
o The applicant's poor community relations;
o A gas station being a permitted use at the site;
The parcel size in relationship to the proposal;
o The internal truck route which traversed over the area in front of the market which did
not appear feasible, noting the likelihood of the trucks to exit onto Rancho California
Road, relaying that this path would traverse over the primary walking area;
o The noise impacts related to pressure-washing the parking lot which was typically
done in the middle of the night;
Mr. Jacobs noted that he did not receive the notice the applicant had stated was
hand delivered;
o Requested that the Planning Commission uphold the General Plan designation and
solely allow Neighborhood Commercial uses on this site which limited the maximum
size of a building to 33,000 square feet;
That the argument which stated that one 50,000-square-foot building would generate
the same traffic as two 25,000-square-foot buildings should be supported via a traffic
study;
o Urged the Planning Commission to not consider relevant preconceived notions of
what might have been envisioned at this intersection more than a decade ago;
o Suggested rezoning the area to Tourist Commercial as a gateway to Wine Country;
o Relayed no opposition to the development of smaller stores, i.e., a Trader Joe's;
o Questioned which Homeowner Associations had expressed support of the proposal,
as was stated by the applicant; and
o The proposed market was too close to the neighboring residences.
For Commissioner Mathewson, Mr. Jacobs relayed that he did not reside on the ridge,
and, for Chairman Chiniaeff, that he would not be opposed to the development of
residential units on the property.
The applicant provided rebuttal
In response to the expressed comments, Mr. Clement relayed the following information:
· That a traffic study was conducted which reflected that the proposed project would
be a form of traffic mitigation due to drawing customers from the local community;
· That the data indicated that the total proposed square footage was under what was
permitted in Neighborhood Commercial;
· That the demographics of this area would not support the development of a Trader
Joe's use or a Henry's; and
For Commissioner Telesio, relayed that a Trader Joe's use would have the same
locating dock configuration as proposed in this project, and that the additional square
footage would be extended in smaller uses (1500 to 2500 square foot uses) which
R:PlanComm/minutes/011503 14
the traffic study revealed would have a higher total traffic count than a larger use, as
was proposed with this project.
Mr. Wolf relayed the following information:
For Commissioner Olhasso, that the applicant would be willing to restrict the hours of
trash truck pickup and on-site maintenance to be consistent with the truck delivery
times;
· That the project's lighting would be in compliance with City Ordinances;
· That the proposal would not generate more traffic than a Neighborhood Commercial
project; and
· For Commissioner Olhasso, advised that the exit proximate to Building E would be
restricted to right-only exits (per the installation a median).
Referencing the Initial Study, Commissioner Mathewson relayed that the analysis did
conclude that this project, as proposed, would generate less traffic than a Neighborhood
Commercial proposal. Deputy Director of Public Works Parks confirmed that the
formulas utilized for Neighborhood Commercial for traffic generated were higher per
square foot than for Community Commercial, confirming, for Chairman Chiniaeff, that a
50,000-square-foot market would generate less traffic than two 25,000-square-foot
markets.
In response to Chairman Chiniaeff, Mr. Larry Markham noted that a letter dated October
22nd from the Rancho Vista Estates HOA expressed support for the project; advised that
the applicant had utilized the City provided list of HOAs as well as its names, addresses
and phone numbers; and noted that he had attended Mr. Harris's HOA meeting and the
Temeku Hills HOA meeting for informational purposes.
The Planninq Commission relayed closinq comments
For informational purposes, Commissioner Olhasso relayed that in response to her
previous request for demographic information, that data was provided to her at this
hearing which included income and dwelling units existing, as well as future forecasts for
the two-mile radius of this center; advised that there was an economic need for this
center; that the small scale of the center (in comparison to centers such as the Ralph's'
Center at Butterfield Stage Road/Highway 79 South) would be more user-friendly,
noting her preference for this size of a center from a planning perspective; that although
she was not pleased with the big box drug store use on the corner, that if this satisfied
staff's requirements to create a main street orientation with Buildings C and D that she
could accept the proposal; that she was pleased with Building E and the proposed
walkway; that the Specific Plan anticipated residential development in this area when
this area was designated Neighborhood Commercial and that these services were now
needed in this area; relayed that prior to developing a Trader Joe's use, the traffic counts
would have to be much higher (per a requirement of Trader Joe's); and opined that
Tourist Commercial Zoning would not be appropriate at this site.
Referencing the public comments, Commissioner Telesio relayed that those with
concerns regarding the proposal were those that resided proximate to the project site;
R:PlanComm/minutes/011503 15
clarified that the sole differential between this proposal and a Neighborhood Commercial
project was the square footage of the grocery store, and not the total square footage of
the project; reiterated that the testimony from staff was that smaller buildings (totaling
the same square footage) would generate additional traffic; relayed that in the eady
planning stage the County had determined that there would be a need for this type of
center at this padicular location, advising that that need now exists; noted that with a few
minor revisions he could support the project, advising that to remove the drive-through
component from the proposed Save-On use would address a few of the concerns; and
relayed that the proposed truck route on site should be revised.
Commissioner Mathewson advised that the concerns expressed by the residents
regarding this project (i.e., traffic, lighting, truck deliveries, pressure-washing, etc.,)
would be impacts experienced whether this site was developed as Community
Commercial or Neighborhood Commercial, reiterating that the fundamental differential
was the size of the proposed market and that the resulting difference would be the
massing, noting that in his opinion this impact was not significant as long as the roof
mounted equipment was screened; reiterated that this project, as proposed, would
generate less traffic than a Neighborhood Commercial site; noted that while there were
issues that needed to be addressed, he would not oppose the proposed change in the
Zoning and the Land Use designation; relayed his concern regarding the noise impacts
from the truck deliveries, noting that it was important to him that the updated noise study
be provided; concurred with the recommendation to remove the drive-through; and
opined that the site plan needed to be revised with respect to the Save-On location, the
loading dock, and the internal circulation; and urged the applicant to work diligently to
address these issues with staff and to make additional efforts to outreach into the
community.
Providing a historical overview of the this particular property, Chairman Chiniaeff noted
that the original plan for this site was to have a market and gas station developed in
order to serve this residential area; relayed that the proposed project would generate
lesser impacts than a Neighborhood Commercial project; concurred that the on-site
circulation needed to be addressed, offering the following recommendation: that the
circulation route for trucks entering the site should be pass Meadows Parkway, turning in
right at the easterly driveway, coming straight in, backing into the loading dock on the
alternate side of the building and then exiting on Meadows Parkway; relayed that he was
not opposed to the larger-sized market; recommended that there be a condition added,
restricting all drive-through and gas station uses; advised that he was not opposed to the
proposed driveways; and in response to the applicant, noted that the Planning
Commission was not recommending a revision with respect to the relocation of the
buildings on site due to a consensus not being met.
In response to Commissioner Mathewson and Chairman Chiniaeff, the applicant's
representatives relayed that the loading dock could be located fudher back on the
building, confirming that this area would be screened, as previously described; and for
Commissioner Telesio, noted that typically the drug store uses desired to have the
building front orientation to the street.
Commissioner Olhasso relayed that she was not strongly in support of a drug store use
on this site, concurring with the recommendation to remove the proposed drive-through
element; and advised that she was not pleased with the front entry of the drug store use
facing the street.
R:PlanComm/minutes/011503 16
Since the Planning Commission discussions were leaning towards continuing this
matter, Assistant City Attorney Curley apprised the Commission that staff would revise
Recommendation Nos. 7.1-7.4 to reflect recommendations of approval as well as
including the Planning Commission's recommended revisions (including the associated
resolutions), and that staff would bring back the revised recommendations to the
Planning Commission. In response, the applicant relayed agreement.
Providing specific direction, Commissioner Mathewson relayed hopes that both staff and
the applicant would work arduously to address the issues of concern, reiterating his
desire for the applicant to bring back a revised noise study addressing the impacts with
inclusion of the enclosed loading area. Commissioners Olhasso and Mathewson
clarifying to the applicant that the Planning Commission did not desire to have this
project brought back until the recommended revisions had been implemented.
MOTION: Commissioner Mathewson moved to continue this item to the February 19,
2003 Planning Commission meeting. The motion was seconded by Commissioner
Olhasso. (Ultimately this motion passed; see below.)
Additional discussion ensued between staff and the applicant regarding the scheduling
of meeting times to discuss the project, Assistant City Attorney Cudey advising that staff
would be available to meet with the applicant, Director of Planning Ubnoske noting the
importance of the applicant's entire development team being present at the meetings,
relaying the past difficulties when the applicant's architect had not been present.
At this time voice vote was taken reflecting approval of the motion with the exception of
Commissioner Guerriero who abstained.
COMMISSIONER'S REPORTS
For Commissioner OIhasso, Director of Planning Ubnoske confirmed that staff
would be providing additional information regarding Code Enforcement.
Relaying kudos, Commissioner Telesio recognized Assistant Planner
Preisendanz, noting that he was the 2002 Employee of the Year.
Commissioner Mathewson requested that staff direct applicants to provide
consistency with respect to the information provided, i.e., drawings, and
renderings, and that the material presented represent the applicant's intended
proposal.
In response, Director of Planning Ubnoske noted that the City currently had this
policy in place, advising that staff could either note the discrepancies in the staff
repod, or it could be relayed to the applicant that the item would be continued
until the data provided was consistent.
PLANNING DIRECTOR'S REPORT
In response to Director of Planning Ubnoske' queries, it was relayed that
Commissioner Guerriero and Chairman Chiniaeff would be able to attend the
national conference held from March 29th through April 2nd.
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Director of Planning Ubnoske noted that the Code Enforcement repods wou~d be
becoming more detailed in the near future.
Updating the Planning Commission regarding recruitment efforts, Director of
Planning Ubnoske relayed that the Planning Department would be recruiting
once again for the position of Associate Planner.
ADJOURNMENT
At 9:20 P.M. Chairman Chiniaeff formally adjourned this meeting to the next regular
adjourned meetin,q to be held on Wednesday, January 29, 2002 at 6:00 P.M., in the
City Council Chambers, 43200 Business Park Drive, Temecula.
~hiniaeff, -- [.J~
Chairman
Debbie Ubnoske,
Director of Planning
R:PlanComrn/minutes/011503 18