Minutes-PC 2006/01/09~AHEr~, ~q CITY OF ANAHEIM
~ ~ P ~r~ ~ ~ ~
o ~ Planning Commission
~ ~ Minutes
~ ~
~o~ Mondav, Januarv 9, 2006 `
,. .
~ o~
,n ~ Councii Chamber, City Hall
~ g~ 200 South Anaheim Boulevard, Anaheim, California
UNDE~ ~
: CHAIRMAN: GAIL EASTMAN ~
Commissioners Present: KELLY BUFFA, CECILIA FLORES, JOSEPH KARAKI,
ED PEREZ, PANKY ROMERO,' PAT VELASQUEZ
Commissioners Absent: NONE
Staff Present:
Mark Gordon, Assistant City Attorney James Ling, Principal Civil Engineer
Greg Hastings, Planning Services Manager John Ramirez, Associate Planner
Greg McCafferty, Principal Planner Amy Vazquez, Associate Planner
Judy Dadant, SeniorPlanner Jessica Nixon, Planning Aide
Della Herrick, Associate Planner Danielle Masciel, Word Processing Operator
~ Agenda Posting: A complete copy of the Planning Commission Agenda was posted at 10:00 a.m. on
Friday, January 6, 2006, inside the display case located in the foyer of the Council Chambers, and also in
the outside display kiosk.
Published: Anaheim Bulletin Newspaper on Thursday, December 15, 2006
• Call To Order
Preliminary Plan Review 1:00 P.M.
• STAFF UPDATE TO COMMISSION ON VARIOUS CITY DEVELOPMENTS
AND ISSUES (AS REQUESTED BY PLANNING COMMISSION)
• PRELIMINARY PLAN REVIEW FOR ITEMS ON THE JANUARY 9, 2006 AGENDA
• Recess To Afternoon Public Hearing Session
• Reconvene To Public Hearing 2:30 P.M.
Attendance: 102
For record keepinq purposes if you wish to make a statement reqardinq anv item on the aqenda,
please complete a speaker card in advance and submit it to the secretarv.
• Pledge Of Allegiance: Commissioner_Buffa
• Public Comments
• Consent Calendar
• Public Hearing Items
• Adjournment
.' You may leave a message for the Planning Commission using the following
e-mail address blanninacommissionCc~anaheim.net
H:\TOOLS\PCADMIN\PCMINIACT12005MINUTESWC010906.DOC _
JANUARY 9, 2006
PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES
~ Anaheim Planning Commission Agenda - 2:30 P.M.
Public Comments: None
This is an opportunity for members of the public to speak on any item under the jurisdiction of the Anaheim
Planning Commission or public comments on agenda items with the exception of public hearing items.
Consent'Calendar:
The items on the Consent Calendar will be acted on by one roll call vote. There wili be no separate
discussion of these items prior to the time of the voting on`the motion unless members of the Planning
Commission, staff or the public request the item to be discussed and/or removed from the Consent Calendar
for separate action.
Commissioner Flores offered a motion, seconded by Chairman Eastman and MOTION CARRIED, for ;
approval'of Consent Calendar Items 1-A through 1-D as recommended by staff. UNANIMOUSLY
APPROVED _
Renorts and Recommendations
1A.(a) CEQA NEGATIVE DECLARATION (PREVIOUSLY-APPROVED) Approved
~ (b) CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT NO. 2871 Approved retroactive
(Tracking No. CUP2005-05047) eztension of time for 1 year
(to expire on
Agent: Ron Sorenson, HGA Inc., 1410 Rocky Ridge Drive, September 20, 2006)
- Suite 250, Roseville, CA 95661
Location: 2323 West Broadwav: Property is approximately 6.5 Consent Calendar
- acres, having a frontage of 454 feet on the north side of Broadway and Approvai
is located 860 feet east of the centerline of Gilbert Street (Cornelia
Connelly High School) VOTE: 7-0
Request a retroactive time extension to comply with conditions of
approval for a previously-approved gymnasium in conjunction with an P,~~ect Pianner.
existing private educational institution. (kwonq@anaheim.net)
JANUARY 9, 2006
PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES
Min
• _
16. Receiving and approving the Minutes from the Planning Commission Approved
Meeting of November 14, 2005. (Motion)
Continued from the November 28, and December 12, 2005, Planning ' ConsentCalendar Approval
Commission meetings.
VOTE: 7-0
1C. Receiving and approving the Minutes from the Planning Commission Approved ,
Meeting'of November 28, 2005. (Motion)
Continued from the December 12; 2005, Planning Commission meeting. Consent Calendar Approval
VOTE: 7-~
1 D. Receiving and approving the Minutes from the Planning Commission Continued to
Meeting of December 12, 2005. (Motion) January 23,'2006
Consent Calendar Approval
~ VOTE: 7-0
JANUARY 9, 2006
PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES
. Public Hearing Items:
2a. CEQA NEGATIVE DECLARATION FloresBuffa Approved
2b. WAIVER OF CODE REQUIREMENT Flores/Romero Approved
2c. CONDITIONAL USE'PERMIT N0. 2005-05045 Flores ' Granted
2d. DETERMINATION OF PUBLIC CONVENIENCE OR Flores Approved
NECESSITY N0. 2005-00023 `
Owner: ' Interpacific Asset Management, Richard Farms Trust, 5505 Vo'rE: 7-0
Garden Grove Boulevard, # 150, Westminster„CA 92683
Agent: Milestone Management, 21196 Jasmines Way, Lake
Forest, CA 92630
Location: 2011 East La Paima Avenue: Property is approximately 9'
acres, located north and east of the northeast corner of
State College Boulevard and La Palma AVenue.'
Conditional Use Permit No. 2005-05045 - Request to permit a
pharmacy with a drive-through and accessory sales of alcoholic
beverages-for off-premises consumption with waiver of maximum letter
heightfor wall signage.
Determination of Public Convenience or Necessity No. 2005-00023 -
To permit sales of alcoholic beverages for off-premises consumption
within a proposed pharmacy.
~ Continued from the December 12, 2005, Planning Commission meeting.
Conditional Use Permit Resolution No. PC2006-4
Public Convenience or Necessit Resolution No. PC2006-5 ProjectPlanner.
Y (dherrick uC~.anaheim.net)
' Chairman Eastman opened the public hearing.
Della Herrick, Associate Planner, introduced Item No. 2.
ApplicanYs Statement:
Roger Barboso, Milestone Management, 21196 Jasmines Way, Lake Forest, CA, thanked the Commission for
having the opportunity to resolve concerns that were expressed previously.
Commissioner Flores stated her disappointment for tearing down a restaurant in order to develop fast food
establishments.
CommissionerRomero asked the applicant to identify the changes thaf were made.
Ms. Herrick described the changes to the landscaping and the loading area.
THE PUBLIC HEARING WAS CLOSED.
~
01-09-06
Page 4
JANUARY 9, 2006
JANUARY9, 2006
PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES
~ 3a. CEQA NEGATNE DECLARATION Continued to
3b. WAIVER OF CODE REQUIREMENT January 23, 2006
3c. CONDITIONAL USEPERMIT N0. 2005-05031
Owner: Mark Ghassemi, 301 East Ball Road, Anaheim; CA 92805 Motion: FtoresBuffa
Agent: Patrick Anderson, 16022 Aria Circle, Huntington Beach, CA vOTE: 7-0
92649
Location: 301 East Ball Road: Property is approximately 0.93-acre,
: having a frontage of 150 feet on the north side of BaII Road :
and is located 333 feef easf of the centerline of Technology
Drive (Ollin lnternational, lnc.).
Request to permit and retain an existing outdoor storage area and to
install an overhead crane to load trucks with slab materials in conjunction '
with an existing wholesale building material (stone) distribution business
with waiver of minimum number of parking spaces.
. Continued from the October 31, November 14, and December 12, 2005,
Planning Commission meetings.
Project Planner.~
Conditional Use Permit Resolution Na (ipramirezan.anaheim.net)
~
OPPOSITION: None
DISCUSSION TIME: This item was not discussed.
JANUARY 9, 2006
PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES
4a. CEQA CATEGORICAL EXEMPTION - CLASS 1 AND 15
~ Continued to '
4b. ' TENTATIVE TRACT MAP NO.'16958 ', January 23, 2006
Owner: Anaheim Hotel Partnership, LCP, 777 Convention Way,
Suite 110, Anaheim, CA 92802 _ Motion: Buffa/Perez
Agent: Kelly Carlyle, Psomas, 3187 Red Hill, Suite 250, Costa
Mesa, CA 92626 voTEc 7-0
Location: 777 Convention Wav: Property is approximately 8.5
acres, located at the northwest corner of Hotel Way and
Convention Way (Anaheim Hilton).
Request to establish a 1-lot, airspace hotel subdivisionfor investment
purposes. , ,
Continued from the December 12, 2005; Planning Commission meeting.
Project Planner.•
(cflores an.anaheim.net)
~
OPPOSITION: None
DISCUSSION TIME: This item was not discussed.
JANUARY 9, 2006
PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES
~ 5a. CEQA NEGATIVE DECLARATION (PREVIOUSLY-APPROVED) Buffa/Perez Approved .
5b. CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT NO. 4073 Buffa Approved reinstatement for
(Tracking No. CUP2005-05051) 5 years (to expire on
January 3, 2011), and
' Owner: Limited P. Harlo-Kinder, 9808 Pangborn Avenue, bowney, CA amendment to conditions of
90240 approval pertaining to hours
of operation.
Agent: Sun H Ko, Golden Pain Control, 2054 South'Euclid Street,
Anaheim, CA 92802 vOTE: 7-0
Location: 2054 South EuciidStreet, Unit H: Property is approximately
2.43'acres located at the:northeast corner of Orangewood '
Avenue and Euclid Street (Golden Pain Control).
Request for reinstatement of this permit by the modification or deletion of a
condition`of approval pertaining to a time limitation (approved January 17,
2001 to expire January 3, 2006*) to retain an acupressure (massage) facility .
and to amend** a condition of approval pertaining to hours of operation. _
* Advertised as January 6; "" Advertised as `de~ete':
Project Planner..
Conditional Use Permit Resolution No. PC2006-7 ~nixon@anaheim.net)
Chairman Eastman opened thepublic hearing. ,
• Jessica Nixon,Planning Aide, introduced Item Na 5.
Public Testimony:
Jonah Kim, 2057 S. Lida Lane, Anaheim, CA, expressed his family's concerns of the adjustment in the hours
of operation and the impact that it may have on the property value. There are specific connotations
: associated with massage parlors opened in the evening.
Commissioner Romero asked Mr. Kim if they had experienced problems in the past as a result of this
business.
Mr. Kim stated that his father had only resided there for the past 2 years. He isn't aware of any specific
problems that had occurred. The concern is for this type of business located next to his home.
Commissioner Buffa stated that she was comfortable with approving this request after receiving the Police
DepartmenYs report indicating that the business is operating in compliance with the requirements of the City
codes. •
ApplicanYs Statement:
Sun Hui Ko, Golden Pain Control, deferred any questions to her fiance, Peter Han, 2054 S. Euclid Street, Unit
H, Anaheim, CA, stated that in 1998 they were approved for one year. In 1999 they were approved for _
another year. In 2001 they were approved #or 5 years. They feel that they have been on probation for an
extended period of time.
THE PUBLIC HEARING WAS CLOSED.
~ Chairman Eastman stated that 5 years is a standard time frame permitted for a reinstatement for this type of
business.
01-09-06 ,
Page 8
JANUARY9, 2006
_ PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES
~
OPPOSITION: A person relayed concerns pertaining to the hours of operation.
Mark Gordon, Assistant City Attorney, presented the 22-day appeal rights ending at 5:00 p.m. on Tuesday,
January 31, 2006.
DISCUSSION TIME: 99 minutes (5:21-5:40) ,
This item was trailed and heard following ltem No. 6, in order fo ensure that the applicanf was present.
Following acfion of this item, ltem No. 7 was heard.
~
JANUARY 9, 2006
PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES
~ 6a. CEQA CATEGORICAL EXEMPTION =' CLASS 1 Flores/Eastman Concurred with staff
6b. ' CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT NO. 2670 Flores Approved request to
(Tracking Na CUP2005-05048) amend conditions of
approval, relating to
' hours of operation.
Owner: Beatrice Quintero, EI PatioRestaurant, 1750 West La
Patma Avenue, Anaheim, CA 92805
VOTE: 7-0
Agentc David M. Swerdlin, Swerdlin & Associates, 31125 Via
Cristal, San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675 ~
Location: 1750 West La Palma Avenue: Property is approximately
1.12 acresJocated at the southeast corner ofla Pafma
Avenue and Mohican Avenue (ElPatio Restaurant).
Request to amend a condition of approval pertaining to hours of operation
for a previously-approved semi-encfosed restaurant with the sale of
alcoholic beverages for on-premises consumption.
''Advertised as `on-premises consumption and a public dance halP:
Conditional Use PermitResolution No. PC2006-6" ProjecrPianner.•
_ (avazquez@anaheim.net) '
Chairman Eastman opened the pu6lic hearing.
~ Amy Vazquez, Associate Planner, introduced Item No. 6
ApplicanYs Statement:
David Swerdlin, Swerdlin & Associates, 31125 Via Cristal, San Juan Capistrano, CA, stated he was present to
address any questions or concerns by Commission.
Ms. Vazquez informed the Commission there is a valid dinner dance permit until January 16, 2006. They
have 30 days to renew the permit. The permit does allow them to have a 4,to 9 piece band and the applicant`
has indicated that no cover charge would be taken at the door.
Commissioner Perez clarified this as a yearly issued permit.
Beatrice Quintero, 1261 N. Woodglen Drive, Anaheim, CA, manager of EI Patio Restaurant, stated her
concurrence with staff s recommendations.
Chairman Eastman addressed the previous concerns with the trash pick up.
Mr. Swerdlin stated they are moving to vacate the alley. He stated they have to go through a process called a
"Quit Claim" then they can come back to the City with plans to expand the parking lot and adhere to any`
additional conditions that may be added.
THE PUBLIC HEARING WAS CLOSED.
Commissioner Romero asked why is it necessary to set the operating hours to remain open until 2 a:m.
~ Mr. Swerdlin stated the desire was to maintain similar operating hours to that of the competition.
, , 01-09-06
Page 10
' JANUARY 9,'2006
PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES
Chairman Eastman stated she recalled granting the previously approved Conditional Use Permit to have their
~ hours be more competitive. She complimented the applicant for operating a responsible business.
Commissioner Buffa offered simitar compliments to the applicant for the improvement to their operation.
OPPOSITION: None - '
Mark Gordon, Assistant City Attorney, presented the 22-day appeal rights ending at 5:00 p.m. on Tuesday,
January 31, 2006.
DISCUSSION TIME: 5 minutes{5:15-5:20) '
Following fhis item, Item No. 5 was heard.
~
~
01-09-06 :
Page 11
JANUARY 9, 2006
PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES
~ 7a: CEQA NEGATIVE DECLARATION -: Buffa/Perez Approved
7b. WAIVER OF CODE REQUIREMENT Buffa/Romero Approved
7c. CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT NO. 2005-05042, Buffa 'Granted
Owner: Turner Anaheim LLC, 1500 Quail Street, Suite 150, ModiTied Condition No. 2
Newport Beach, CA 92660
Agent: Word of Faith, 13451 Pinenut Path, Corona, CA 92880 vOTE: 6-0
Commissioner Karaki
` abstained
Location: 1251 North Manassero Street. Suites 403 and 404:
' Property is approximately 8.1" acres located at the
' northwest corner of La Palma Avenue and Manassero
Street.
Request #o establish a church in an existing industriaUoffice complex with
waiver of minimum number of parking spaces.
Project Planner.• ,
Conditional Use Permit Resolution No. PC2006-8 ~dnerrick@anaheim.net)
Chairman Eastman opened the public hearing.
Della Herrick, Associate Planner, introduced Item No. 7.
ApplicanYs Statement:
~ Morris Delaney, 1848 Providence Way, Corona, CA, stated he is the assistant Pastor of the church and that
he concurs with the findings of the staff report.
Commissioner Buffa clarified for the benefit of the applicant that this approval does not permit the operation of
a school as an accessory use to the church. She stated that it is a separate permit.
Commissioner Romero asked why there was signage posted at the site prior to approvaL
Mr. Delaney admitted that they were a bit anxious for the City's approvaL
Commissioner Perez asked what the specific hours of operation would be.
Greg McCafferty, Principal Planner, encouraged the applicant to ask for the hours that they anticipate needing
for future use at this time, rather than wait until later.
Mr. Delaney stated that they would like to have extended hours on Mondays from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m.
Commissioner Buffa suggested changing Condition No. 2 to read as follows
(a) Church Services Sunday 10:00 a.m. and 11;30 a.m.
(b) Bible Study Week nights 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
JANUARY 9, 2006
JANUARY 9, 2006
PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES
~ 8a. CEQA NEGATIVE DECLARATION ' Buffa/Romero , Approved '
8b. RECLASSIFICATION N0. 2005-00172 Buffa Granted
8c. CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT NO. 2005-05052 Buffa Granted ,
8d. TENTATIVE'TRACT MAP NO. 16974 ' Buffa/Romero Approved
Owner: Manasseh Bareh, 1934 Newport Boulevard, Costa Mesa,
, CA 92627 ` TTM
Added a condition of approval
Location: 648 South Maqnolia Avenue: Property is approximately pertainingto aprovision to'be
* included in the project CC&Rs
0.41-acre having a frontage of75 feef on the east side of Which requires homeowners to`
Magnolia Avenue and is located 335 feet south of the use the garage for parkin~ and '-
centerline of Westhaven Drive. not for storage.
*Advertised as 85 feef of frontage on Magnolia Avenue.
VOTE: 7-0
Reclassification No. 2005-00172 - Request to reclassify the property
from the T(Transition) zone to the RM-3 (Residential, Multiple-Family)
zone or less intense zone.
Conditional Use Permit Na 2005-05052 = Request to construct a 7-unit
semi-attached residentiai condominium complex.
. Tentative Tract Map No. 16974 -To establish a 1-1ot, 7-unit semi-
attached single-family residential condominium subdivision.
' Reclassification Resolution No. PC2006-9 Project Planner.•
~ Conditional Use Permit Resolution No. PC2006-10 ~ramirez@ananeim.ner) "
Chairman Eastman opened the public hearing. '
John Ramirez, Associate Planner, introduced Item No. 8.
ApplicanYs Statement:
George Benum, 1150 E. Orangethorpe Avenue, Suite 109, Placentia, CA, architect of record, stated that they
concur with the staff report.
THE PUBLIC HEARING WAS CLOSED. _
Commissioner Romero stated this location appeared to be ideal for a gated community. He asked the
applicant why that type of use was not considered at this location.
Mr. Benum stated his understanding from the Traffic Engineering Department was if a gate was installed it
would increase the distance between the property line and the gate to allow for 3 cars queing and there isn't
enough room.
Commissioner Velasquez asked why the square footage for the 3 and 4 bedroom homes were the same.
Mr. Benum stated they have observed many homes using this type of space as a home office rather than a
~ bedroom: In addition it allows compliance with code for the standard parking requirements.
Commissioner Velasquez inquired where the guests would be permitted to park.
01-09-06
Page 14
JANUARY 9, 2006
PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES
• Mr. Benum stated the provisions for the parking exceeds the minimum requirements for the Code.
Chairman' Eastman asked what size was the loft in'these units.
Mr. Benum confirmed that it was about 7 feet by 11 feet. It was too small #o enable even a closet to be
installed in this space. '
CommissionerBuffa asked that a condition of approval be added that discloses to the buyers that they are
required to park inside their garages per the Municipal Code, and they are not permitted to use the surface
parking.
Mr. Benum suggested this condition be added to the CC&R's.
Commissioner Buffa stated her desire to add a condition to the CC&R's for it to contain a stipulation that
homeowners are required to park inside their garages:'
OPPOSITION: None
Mark Gordon, Assistant City Attorney, presented the 10-day appeal rights for the Tentative Tract Map ending
at 5:00 p.m. on Thursday, January 19, 2006; and presented the 22-day appeal rights for the balance of the
items ending at 5:00 p.m. on Tuesday, January 31, 2006.
• DISCUSSION TIME: 17 minutes (5:48-6:05)
dANUARY 9, 2006
~ PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES - :
. 9a. CEQA NEGATIVE bECLARATION ' Perez/Eastman Denied
9b. GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT NO. 2005-00439 ' Flores Denied
9c.' RECLASSIFICATIONNO.2005-00168 Flores Denied '
9d. WAIVER OF CODE REQUIREMENT FloresNelasquez Denied
9e. CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT N0. 2005-05046 Flores Denied -
9f. TENTATIVE TRACT MAP NO. 16932 Flores/Velasquez Denied
` Owner: Property Reserve Inc., Attn: Mark`Gibbons, 5 7riad Center,
Suite 650, Salt Lake City, Utah 84180
VOTE ON CEQA: 6-Q
Agent: Jackie Rodarte, The Olson Company, 3020 Old Ranch Commissioner velasquez
'` Parkway, Suite 400, Seal Beach, CA 90740 abstained
Location: 1731 Medical Center Drive: Property is approximately 2.5 voTE or1 GrA, RCL,
acres, having a frontage of 462 feef on the north side of wArvER, CUP A1VD TTM: 7-0 ,
Medical Center Drive and is located 587 feet west of the
centerline of Euclid Street. '
General Plan Amendment Na 2005-00439 - Request to redesignate
` the property from the Public Institutional land use designation to the Low-
Medium Density Residential land use designation.
Reclassification No. 2005-00168 - Request to reclassify the property
from the GG Commercial (Genera( Commercial) zone to the RM-3
(Residential, Multiple-Family) zone or less intense zone.
• Conditional Use Permit No. 2005-05046 - Request to permit a 32-unit,
single-family attached residential condominium project with waivers of (a) ,
permitted encroachments mto required street setback and (b) minimum
distance of monument sign from public right-of-way.
Tentative Tract MapNo. 16932 - Request to permit a 1-lot, 32-unit
airspace attached residential condominium subdivision.
General Plan Amendment Resolution No. PC2006-1
Reclassification Resolution No. PC2006-2
Conditional Use Permit Resolution No. PC2006-3 ProlecrP~anner.•
(dherrick@anaheim. net)
Chairman Eastman opened the public hearing.
Della Herrick, Associate Planner, introduced Item No. 9.
ApplicanYs Statement:
Jacqueline Rodarte, 3020 Old Ranch Parkway, Suite 400, Seal Beach, CA, represented the Olson Company.
She provided the Planning Commission with an even more comprehensive presentation of this project. She
stated that the Olson Company is the leading infill housing developer in working with the cities and
redevelopment agencies in creating housing solutions. She gave examples of "Village Walk" in Claremont,
"C+ty Walk" in Brea, and "The Promenade" in Huntington Beach. This is a 2:5 acre parcel that the Olson
Company is in escrow to purchase from the Church of Latter Day Saints. Our neighborhood surroundings to
the north are Emerald Court, who is leasing from the Church of LatterDay Saints; to the west is Anaheim
• Shores Estates, a mobile home park; to the east a Toyota Dealership antl to the south some medical offices.
01-09-06
: , Page 16
JANUARY 9, 2006
PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES
In the site plan there are 32 homes being proposed; 19 are 2 bedrooms, 2%2 baths, 13 are 3 bedrooms, 3
• baths. Both plans are 1570 square feet. The parking requirement is being met in this development
community.` In addition, this site is maintained under an access agreement and the ingress and egress is
shared with fhe assisted living facility to the north. There is also a conditional use permif that contained a
condition that we maintain the parking adjacent to the egress and ingress area. ' Each home is equipped with :`
a 2-car garage and 18 additiona{ guest spaces throughout the community. We exceed the open space '
requirements. There are provisions for parking signage throughout the community and we disclose to our
home buyers the parking limitation. We will enter into a licensed agreement with the facility to the north,
Emerald Court, so both facilities would have towing rights for unauthorizedvehicles. There is a plan to retain
the existing trees, provide additional trees and added some enhanced paving to areas that were noted from
conversations. There was a line-of-sight study that showed the compatibility between the assisted Jiving
facility and what is being proposed. She elaborated on the provision that would be made for the existing
residences during the construction phase.' She stated that the proposal is for craftsman like elevations. In
conclusion; she stated that the Olson Company has met with the community on several different occasions
- and is committed fo proyiding the very best product they can.
Commissioner Buffa asked about the License Agreement that would provide towing rights to both the Home
Owners`Association and the Emerald Court residents. .She asked if this would be a recorded agreement and
would it be irrevocable. `
Ms. Rodarte wasn't certain if that agreement would be recorded: She did respond that the License
` : Agreement does expire and at that time the agreemenf could be removed. `
Commissioner Buffa asked what prevents the homeowners association from removing it the second year that
they are in operation.
Ms. Rodarte confirmed that the Olson Company does stay involved with their development projects for a
. 10 year period with the homeowners associations. `
Commissioner Buffa asked the applicant what she felt about this proposed project blending in the area and
with the mixed use area across the street.
: Ms. Rodarte stated that the fronting along Medical Center Drive gives the impression of friendly pedestrian
access.
Commissioner Velasquez followed up with additional questions regarding the license that Emerald Court
would be involved with. How would a guest of the Olson project and a guest of Emerald Court differentiate
the parking? In addition she asked what the motivation was for building 2 and 3 bedroom homes with the
same square footage.
Ms. Rodarte reiterated that the signage proposed would clearly indicate which parking areas they are
associated with. She explained that these homes were designed with the intent that it would be for first time
buyers. The 2 bedrooms were designed to give them maximum square footage of living space. The 3
bedrooms were designed to provide more bedroom space.
Chairman Eastman asked if the Olson Company would be allowed any type of tax credit from making this
project an affordable housing project and what is the anticipated price range for this project.
Ms. Rodarte stated that there would not be any type of tax benefit attained from this project and the price
range is below the Orange County median for homes at this time. The current value is in themid $500's
range.
Commissioner Buffa asked about the floor plans. What provisions are being made to prevent the 2 bedroom
home with a den becoming a third bedroom?
• _ ;
Ms. Rodarte responded that it did not have a full bathroom or a closet, and that the homeowners association
would be responsible to overseeing any changes.
01-09-06
Page 17
JANUARY 9, 2006
PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES
~ Greg McCafferty, Frincipal Planner, stated that if the homeowner made interior changes without pulling
permits it would be a code violation that would be difficult to monitor.' .
Mark Gordon, Assistant City Attorney; addressed the License Agreement and sfated that it is an agreement
that is not an interest in iand. It is a personal license in the form of a contract. It does not run with the land
- and would not bind assigners or transferees or subsequent purchasers. It is terminable at wilL It is not a
recordable document.
Commissioner Buffa stated that her concern is if the Olson Company stays involved for 10 years, in year 11,
when the Olson Company is no longer involved, could the HOA potentially say this is not working to our
benefit and the benefit of ourmembers, the licensing agreement could therrbe terminated:
` Mr. Gordon concurred fhat they could do that.
Commissioner Romero asked if this is an agreemenf of both parties or can just one interested party terminate
it at will.'
Mr. Gordon restated tfiat the person giving the license can take it away.
Chairman Eastman stated there is a Conditional Use Permit for the Emerald Court facility which requires them
to have right-of-way access.
Mr. Gordon stated 4ypically under those situations a recorded covenant would be required that would define
the parking and access use. It would bind successors. It depends on the nature of the use. It isn't an
agreement that could be removed at will and if it was tied to a Conditional Use Permit then it would require to
be maintained.
• Chairman Eastman asked if this type of an agreement was incorporated into the Emerald Court Conditional
use Permit conditions.
Mr. Gordon had not reviewed it and could not confirm its status.
Commissioner Flores asked if the use stays as is then the parking agreement remains intact. However, if the
use changes then could the agreement change?
Mr. Gordon stated that the approval runs with the land and until a termination is approved it would not change :
or be removed.
James Ling, Principal Civil Engineer, stated there is a recorded parcel map for the project and a recorded
ingress easement on that parcel map.
Public Testimony:
Mary Jo Hesketh, 832 N. Redondo Drive; Anaheim, CA, stated her concern is when Emerald Court is filled
she would like the adjacent property to be developed in the same way in order to provide facilities for our
aging population. The street is a very narrow and there isn't enough parking.
Diane Sargent, 2733 W. Savoy Place, Anaheim, CA, representing West Anaheim Neighborhood Development
Council (WAND), stated her familiarity with the Olson Company projects. She is concerned with the Olson
Company's lack of commitment to their agreements. She concurs with the need for outdoor activity facilities
for the senior citizens at this location.
Elena Cuevas, 11101 Emerson Way, Stanton, CA, Assistant Sales and Marketing Director of Emerald Couct,
~ stated her concerns with the emotional aspect that is being affected. She provided many signatures in
opposition of the rezoning of the Emerald Courf property. By rezoning the land`it would interfere with the
01-09-06
page 18
JANUARY 9, 2006
PLANNiNG COMMISSION MINUTES
activities that take p~ace by the senior citizens. The outdoor activities take place on the lawn area that is `
~ owned bythe Church and maintained by Emerald Court.
Juli Sanchez, 201 E. Rosecrest, La Habra, CA, representing Emeratd Court, stated her concern for how the
zoning change will affect the health issues of the neighbors at Emerald Court. She feels the Emerald Court
residents deserve to have some pea,ce, not to be sandwiched in between the 91 Freeway, the Toyota
Dealership and town homes as this would change their comfort and security. : '
James Karsch, 1:731 W. Medical Center Drive, Anaheim, CA, ~xecutive Director of Emerald Court. He _
informed the Planning Commission of the operatior-al information about Emerald Court. He further stated that
there are several different types of service vehicles arriving on a daily basis. He mentioned vendor; delivery
and emergency vehicles. He pointed out a section on the exhibit that is identified as existing trash enclosure
to remain. :This is the location of our permitted diesel powered emergency generator. The emergency :
generator is tested weekly for one hour. Other operations of the generator wil{ be done during routine
maintenance of the equipment or when there is a power outage. On the south side of the plan which fronts
on Medical Center Drive there is a note to relocate the existing backflow prevention'valve: This is the main
source of water flow for the'community. Any interruption of our water supply, even with sufficient notice is
potentially devastating to our operation. The minute the water goes'off the phones start ringing: Available
parking for our customers and associates will be a major problem. We are considered good neighbors now.
Once we have cars towed as'a result of this agreement that will jeopardize our standings. There is a major
concern in the ability to exit Emerald Courts' driveways without possibility of injury. Kisco SeniorLiving, the
owner of Emerald Court retains the services of a company named Stack Fole and Associates to determine
resident's satisfaction with Emerald Court. Residents stated, through these surveys, the following: Emerald
Court is a very comfortable community complex; beautiful and clean; parking is available; it is'a spacious well
maintained appearance; it is like my home now; it is secured; Emerald Court is a most desirable place to
reside and spend my senior years.
Commissioner Buffa asked how many trucks need to back out of the driveway on a daily or weekly basis?
~
Mr. Karsch stated that the trucks back into the driveway for pick up and delivery purposes.
Commissioner Flores asked if the residents were picked up by bus.
Mr. Karsch confirmed Commissioner Flores' inquiry.
Commissioner Romero asked if there were any laws in place that protect a verbal agreement between land
owners when they share portions of their properties.
Mr. Gordon stated there are no prescriptive rights that they would acquire because people are aware that fhey
are using the property for the intended purpose so they are not adversely gaining any rights or interest in the '
property by using it in a manner that is inconsistent with the interest that the adjoining landowner has. It is
either a license agreement or a lease akin to that.
Commissioner Karaki clarified the property is zoned commercial. He asked Mr. Karsch what he felt would be
a desirable development at this location.
Mr. Karsch stated a desirabfe development would be for Kisco Senior Living to build bungalows for Seniors.
Then they would have a true continuum for progressive living for their current residents.
Commissioner Perez asked if there was ever a point in time when Mr. Karsch or Kisco Senior Living entered
into an agreement with the land owners of the neighboring site requesting that this type of development be
made. Did Emerald Court engage a dialog for building this type of plan for our senior community?
Darleen Yee, 1731 W. Medical Center Drive, Anaheim, CA, Marketing Director of Emerald Court. She
~. informed the Commission of the good will that the Emerald Court facility has established with their community.
She highlighted some of#he most significant senior citizen events that are sponsored by Emerald Court on an
annual basis. They are designed to coincide with the City of Anaheim's senior programs. Emerald Court is
' 01-09-06
_ Page 19
JANUARY 9, 2006
' PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES
recognized by the City of Anaheim at their annual awards ceremony. The four major events are the Mother's
• Day high tea, a classic car show, crafts bazaar, and the Anaheim Senior Olympics. The largest event is the
November Health Fair and Flu Clinic. In addition it is a Polling place for the City of Anaheim elections. At the
very least should this project go through as if i§ proposed it will make Emerald CourYs continued sponsorship
and hosting of these dramatically significant functions difficult, at best. She also stated her concern to the
proposed curb appeal of the new development and#he cohesiveness that it will have with Emerald Court.
Mary G. Rainbolt, 2928 N. Maple Tree Drive, Orange, CA, Assistant Executive Director at Emerald Court,
stated the opposition of Mr. Wilfred Hanson as he could not attend the meeting. He has two major objections
of this proposaL First is the dust in the air: His wife is suffering ofJung disease and is on oxygen 24 hours
per day. The dust that would develop would cause them to have to consider moving along with other
residents in the`same health situations. Second is the zone change request. Over the course of the next ten
years there will be an increase in demand for Senior Citizen housing. She submitted a petition containing
' apProximately 250 signatures. '
William Wewer, 1731 W. MedicaC Center Drive, Apt 372, Anaheim, CA, a retired educator. He expressed his
concern with the increased traffic that will occur as a result of this development. He is also concerned with
the change'in the environment and activity level in which he resides. This facility not only allows a certain
type of living standard for the residents but also for the visiting Anaheim Community. He request that the
' residents of Emerald Court can maintain a peaceful, restful environment for the duration of their lives.
Velda Brunet Wilson, 1731 W. Medical Center Drive, Apt 178, Anaheim, CA, distributed a picture of the
facilities to the Commission.` She has resided there for approximately 5 years. She selected Emerald Court
to be able to be close to her friends, family, church and familiar surroundings Emerald Court has'provided afl
of that plus a friendly home environment in a beautiful setting and location where she feels safe and secure.
There are many residents that share her sentiments. She doesn't feel this project is complimentary or
compatible with the existing area. She expressed her concerns with the parking that will increase and the
allotted parking on the street. She doesn't feel that this parcel is adequately taking care ofthe needs of the
• families that will reside here. Another grave concern is with the children living in the condos with.little or no
play area outdoors. Children often visit family at Emerald Court but with children there on a permanent basis
would not be a safe environment to raise them in. We have emergency vehicles and large trucks frequenting
our facility on a daily basis, dropping off or picking up which contributes to the traffic already.
Leo Shapiro, 1731 W. Medical Center Drive, Anaheim, CA, stated he is 101 years old, and January 4th is the
10th Anniversary as a resident of Emerald Court. The traific increase is a major concern for him. He has
retained his drivers' license and will maintain it for another 2 years. However, with this proposal the traffic will
increase significantly. He is opposed to replacing the existing landscape and foliage with town homes and
devetopment.
Gordon Walker, 1731 W. Medical Center Drive, Apt 348, Anaheim, CA, stated he has been a resident of West
Anaheim for 49 years and a resident of Emerald Court for the past 5 years. He stated that the Olson
Company is not an easy company to work with. They have been known to tell the public one thing and then
present something different to the Planning Commissions. Their philosophy is to build it, sell it and then move
on, not worrying about what they leave behind. A second concern is about parking that has been discussed
in great length~s. The proposed project should be something that is compatible with Senior Living. If the
zoning is kept the same there is room fo~ Senior Bungalows, for couples that no longer want to maintain a
large residence and can downsize. There is a great demand for this now. He gave examples of how the
properties could be utilized better to fit in with the Emerald Court facility.
Mitchell Brown, Executive Vice President of Development, Kisco Senior Living, 5790 Fleet Street, Suite 300,
Carlsbad, CA, stated Emerald Court was built in the mid 1980's. At that time the ~entire 7 acres Was master
planned by Transamerica Senior Living to include 178 units of congregate living without assistance and a
skilled nursing facility. The plan was to phase the property which caused the creation of 3 parcel maps. The
4%z acres under Emerald Cou~t is still under the ground ~ease with the Church of Latter Day Saints. There is
• still 30 - 32 years left on the lease. The 2'/2 acre parcel between the existing Emerald Court and Medical ,
Center Drive was laid out for a nursing home facility. The entire project was planned as a unified campus with ,
kitchen, service access, entry driveway and parking all intended to be shared with a like use. The City
01-09-06
Page 20
JANUARY 9, 2006
PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES
acknowledged this campus approach by recording reciprocal access easements which was recorded and also
~: at the end of the project required a reciprocal parking agreement. We have been maintaining and utilizing the
driveways,'parking and landscaping on this front parcel for 17 years. The development of this front parcel
with a non related use will potentially have a significantly adverse impact on' Emerald Court. We'have
programs that encourage the independence of individuals for as long as they are ableto. This project sets up
incompatibility issues that will adversely affect this area for years to come. We disagree wifh the findings of
the negative declaration that there is no substantial evidence that this project will have an adverse impact to
the area, because the built environment just as much as the natural environment is included in CEQA. The
five major concerns are parking designation and enforcement, maintenance of parking and driveways,
operational impacts of Emerald Court on the homeowners and the safety impacts of this project on Emerald
Court residents and the: aesthetic impairment'of Emerald Court. The parking and towing would be an endless
tai( chase. Dealing with a Homeowner's Association with 32 residents is more cumbersome that dealing with
an independent Commercial property owner. The License Agreement isn't something we are comfortable
with at all. The safety impacts are significant because at the west side ofthe driveway the emergency
medical vehicles arrive and depart. Having cars backing in and out of a fairly heavly traveled street is not a
good tlesign from a safety stand poinf. Moving into the Emerald Court facility is a difficult decision for our
families and the curb appeal is a vital element of our ability to do business. This project and product with its
design and location hinders greatly our ability to create an attractive entry sequence into Emerald Court. We
are notbpposed to responsible development ofthis property: 0ur desire is to see a senior related use on this
property. We have spoken with the Church to try to come to a business arrangement to re-lease or acquire
the frontparceL We found out from theBroker that the land was being sold. Thisprojecf is contingent on
entitlements going through. We don't want to violate thaf contract and we don't want to be sued. However if
this project does'not move forward, we would entertain entering into a long-term' ground lease for the entire
7 acres so that you can build your bungalows or more compatible use. We would view that project as a non
economicproject to protectEmerald Court. Our goal is to protect the long-term viability of Emeratd Court.
Esther Wallace, 604 Scott l:ane, Anaheim, CA, President of West Anaheim Neighborhood Development
•' Council (WAND), stated they spoke with the Olson Company and were told that there aren't any variances on
this parceL Which we found out there were. They said they had a written parking agreement with Emerald
Court, which Emerald Court was not aware of. They also said there was plenty of parking in back of Emerald
Court but when we checked out the Conditional Use Permit, when the addition was made to this property in
1993 we found out there was a deficiency of approximately 100 parking spaces. So that is why they need the
space along the sides of this piece of property for the additional parking. That agreement probably needs to
stay with that property because the property is going to stay there: Senior citizens in our area have said they `
want condominiums to move into when they finally sell the homes they raised their children in. There are _
none for "Seniors Only" in West Anaheim. They want to own their own place without a landlord. Over 250 '
apartments for low income seniors have been built in thepast 3 years in West Anaheim. 7hese properties do
not pay any real estate taxes because it is low cost housing. There have been no nursing homes or
convalescent hospitals built to handle the growing need for seniors in Anaheim. According to the Anaheim
Senior Commission there is a need for quality nursing homes. People in West Anaheim want to remain in the
area they are familiar with and stay close to family and friends. The down side to this project is that a
developer can always out bid other uses because of the high prices of what homes are sold. These proposed
prices for these homes are not for first-time home buyers.
Applicant's RebuttaL•
Ms. Rodarte confirmed that the Olson Company is in escrow to purchase this property from the Church of
Latter Day Saints and not to enter into some sort of ground lease agreement. We will be providing a
secondary access along Medical Center Drive during the construction of our project. This is to ensure no
disruptions will occur during the construction. The noise from the various trucks and emergency vehicles on, a
daily basis will be disclosed to home buyers. We will have them sign a disclosure where they are fully aware
of the type of surroundings and noise they will be adhering to. There will be erosion control measures with
the frequent use of water trucks. Our Homeowners Association will enforcethe proper use of the garages.
The parking that we are providing to our Community to meet code is within our own community boundaries.
• We could revisit the access agreement to incorporate the parking and easements together. To address
concerns regarding the den conversion, #he Olson Company provides a deed restriction to the home buyer to ,
avoid the possibility of a den being converted to a bedroom. She further pointed`out that the recreational
01-09-06
, Page 21
JANUARY 9, 2006
PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES
amenity consists of a trellis, benches and trees. We could reconsider incorporating a tot lot instead. With
~ regards to the parking concerns for visitors who park in unauthorized locations, the solution is a monitoring
element for both parties to be responsible to enforce the parking.
Commissioner Romero asked how the monitoring of parking would be the responsibility of both parties. In
' addition,' he asked how they would enforce people'from parking on the street.
Ms. Rodarte clarified that it would be enforced by both the Home Owners Association and Emerald Court.
We could revisit the idea of installing a plaquered system. She also stated that the parking arrangements are
set to meet the City code,
THE PUBLIC HEARING WAS CLOSED.
Commissioner Buffa acknowledged the City's need for affordable housing. She stated that $540,000 is not
affordable by anyone's definition, however it is less expensive than the median housing price. She stated that
she is hard pressed to ever deny,a housingproject. However in this case there is. significant amount of
evidence on the record that presented in testimony today by #he resitlents and property owner, letter received
today, her own visit to the property and meeting with the applicant, it is evident that this pro}ect is not an
appropriate use for this site. The setback along Medical Center Drive is very concerning. Orientating front
doors along this street when there isn't anything across the street isn't really helping create a mixed use '
district there. There are concerns about the proximity. of residences,`only outdoor living space on their front
patio and front entry being close'to a relatively busy street. The truck traffic in a residential area and the noise ' :
of a generator being tested once a week, for an hour, is very noisy and it won't be bufferetl enough for the
residents. The single biggest concern is that it is all a 3-story building massing with no relief at the ends of
the building even with an effort to soften the very box-like nature of these structures. If it was stackedflats or
a combination of condos and stacked flats so that it could aggregate a taller building mass even more than 3-
story on the westem sitle of the property and the back of the building being adjacent to the more heavily
• ' utilized truck road and step down as you get towards the eastern entry: She doesn't see this as a compatible
use for the area.
Chairman Eastman concurred with Commissioner Buffa sentiments and findings. Additionally, the
recommendation to change the Generaf Plan designation isn't supporting the best proposed use of the land. "
Commissioner Romero stated for the record that he met with the developers of this project and the Emerald
Court residents. He also concurred with Commissioner Buffa.
Commissioner Velasquez stated her opposition for this project.
Commissioner Perez complimented the Emerald Court residents for their efforts today. He also stated his
opposition for this project.
Commissioner Flores also concurred with Commissioner Buffa. She encouraged the developer to consider
building something suited for senior living.
Commissioner Karaki stated that he was originally supportive of the project. However the testimony received
at today's hearing pointed out the need for senior housing. Therefore he reconsidered his original decision
and will deny the proposed project.
Ms. Rodarte requested a continuance in order to revisit the concems expressed at today's hearing.
JANUARY 9; 2006
` PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES
~
OPPOSITION: 13 people spoke in opposition, and a letter was received in opposition to subject request:
A petition was submitted with 229 signatures in opposition.
Mark Gordon, Assistant City Attorney, presented the 10-day appeal rights for the Tentative Tract Map ending
at 5:00 p.m. on Thursday, January 19, 2006; and presented the 22-day appeal rights for'the balance of the
items ending at 5:00 p.m. on Tuesday, January 31,2006.
DISCUSSION TIME: 2 hours and 10 minutes (2:45-4:55)
A 1 D-minute break was taken (4:5~5:05)
•
~ _
' JANUARY 9, 2006
PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES
~ 10a. CEQA MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION
10b. VARIANCE NO. 2005-04655
10c. TENTATIVE PARCEL MAP N0. 2005-157
Owner; Gary Ca{kins Trust, 6263 East Treil Drive, Anaheim, CA
_ 92807
, Agent: Steve Ellis, 4742 Yorba Lane, Yorba Linda, CA 92886
Location: ' 8263 East Trail Drive: Property is approximately 3.2 acres
having a fror-tage of 47 feet at the terminus of Trail Drive
and is located 145 feet west of the centerline of Whitestone
Drive.
Variance No. 2005-04655 - Request waivers of (a) maximum structural
Continued to
January 23, 2006
Motion: Romero/Eastman
VOTEs 7-0
height, (b) maximum retaining wall height and (c) lot frontage on a public
or, private street to construct a single-family residence.
Tentative Parcet Map No. 2005-157 - To establish a 2-lot, 2-unit
detached single-family residential subdivision.
Projecf Planner.~
VariBnCe ResOlution N0. (avazquez@anaheim.net)
~
OPPOSITION: None
DISCUSSION TIME: This item was not discussed. ~
MEETING ADJOURNED AT 6:20 P.M.
TO MONDAY, JANUARY 23, 2006 AT 11:00 A.M.
FOR PRELIMINARY PLAN REVIEW.
Respectfully submitted:
~ G~~~
~ ~
Danielle Masciel
Word Processing Operator
Received and approved by the Planning Commission on t~G ~o , 2006.