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HomeMy WebLinkAbout04-16-2013 NAHCITY OF LAKE ELSINORE PLANNING COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES OF APRIL 16, 2013 CALL TO ORDER Chairman Morsch called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Commissioner Blake led the Pledge of Allegiance. R[)I I CAI I Present: Chairman Morsch Vice Chairman O'Neal Commissioner Blake Commissioner Gray Commissioner Jordan Absent: None Also present: Acting Planning Manager MacHott, Public Works Director Seumalo, Planning Consultant Coury, City Attorney Leibold, and Office Specialist Herrington. PUBLIC COMMENTS — NON AGENDIZED ITEMS — 3 MINUTES None. CONSENT CALENDAR ITEM(S) 1. Minutes for the following Planning Commission meeting(s) a. City Council and Planning Commission Joint Study Session — February 12, 2013. Recommendation: It is recommended that the Planning Commission approve the Minutes as submitted. Motion by Commissioner Blake and seconded by Commissioner Jordan, to approve the City Council and Planning Commission Joint Study Session of February 12, 2013; Motion passed 5 -0. b. Planning Commission Minutes of March 5, 2013 City of Lake Elsinore Planning Commission Meeting Minutes of April 16, 2013 Page 2 of 9 Motion by Commissioner Blake and seconded by Commissioner Jordan, to approve the Planning Commission Minutes of March 5, 2013, with revision to remove the sentence on page 3 of 5 "She asked if there are right -of -way easements that are going to be obtained to accomplish this. ", due to a duplication; Motion passed 5 -0. C. Planning Commission Minutes of March 19, 2013 Motion by Commissioner Blake and seconded by Commissioner Jordan, to approve the Planning Commission Minutes of March 19, 2013; Motion passed 5- 0. PUBLIC HEARING ITEM(S) 2. Conditional Use Permit No. 2012 -05 and Minor Design Review — A request by Los Angeles SMSA, L.P. dba Verizon Wireless for approval of three Mono -Faux Boulder Unmanned Wireless Antennae Facilities and improvements located in the 31800 block of Cedarhill Lane at the Canyon Hills Water Tank Site. Recommendation Adopt a resolution approving Conditional Use Permit No. 2012 -05 and a resolution approving a Minor Design Review for the design and construction of three Mono -Faux Boulder Unmanned Wireless Antenna Facilities and associated improvements based on the Findings, Exhibits, and Conditions of Approval. Planning Consultant Coury presented the staff report. Commissioner Blake asked if this is a receiver /transmission system. Planning Consultant Coury stated that it is receive and transmit for text, cell phone usage, etc. Commissioner Blake stated that he loves the idea of the rock on the hill to hide the cell tower. Commissioner Gray stated that he drove by the area to take a look and it does stay with the natural features, and it doesn't attract attention which accomplishes the needs and is a good solution. Commissioner Jordan stated that on page 7 of 17, 8th paragraph, there should not be a period after the word Project. Also, she asked how the facility is maintained. Planning Consultant Coury stated that if a repair needs to be done it is through the facility's cable system which the workers have access to. Commissioner Jordan stated that she thinks it's nice that the facility is hidden behind a rock. Vice Chairman O'Neal stated that it is good to see something other than a pine tree. City of Lake Elsinore Planning Commission Meeting Minutes of April 16, 2013 Page 3 of 9 Chairman Morsch stated that he thinks it's a very creative solution. He asked if there are any security cameras that monitor the facility. Planning Consultant Coury stated no. Chairman Morsch stated that he noticed that there is a chain link fence surrounding the facility and asked if there are signs which state "No Trespassing" on the fence surrounding the facility. Planning Consultant Coury stated that the applicant is adding a sign to the existing leased area. Chairman Morsch stated that he is concerned because of the remoteness of the site and the propensity for stealing copper wire, etc. Planning Consultant Coury stated that he is not aware of any security cameras at the project site and cannot speak for the water tank. Motion by Commissioner Jordan and seconded by Commissioner Gray to approve Resolution No. 2013 -48, a Resolution of the Planning Commission of the City of Lake Elsinore, California, approving Conditional Use Permit No. 2012- 05 for the Metro PCS Telecommunications Facility at the Canyon Hills Water Tank Site with revision the Resolution on page 7 of 17, 8th paragraph, omitting the period after Project; Motion passed 5 -0. Motion by Vice Chairman O'Neal and seconded by Commissioner Gray to approve Resolution No. 2013 -49, a Resolution of the Planning Commission of the City of Lake Elsinore, California, approving a Minor Design Review for the Metro PCS Telecommunications Facility at the Canyon Hills Water Tank Site; Motion passed 5 -0. 3. Residential Design Review No. 2013 -01 — A request for building designs and related improvements for a Housing Project located within Tract 28214 -3 and 28214 -5 of Murdock Alberhill Ranch Specific Plan (Pinnacle) Recommendation Adopt a resolution approving Residential Design Review No. 2013 -01 based on the Findings, Exhibits, and Conditions of Approval. Planning Consultant Coury presented the staff report. The applicant, Ryan Green of Ryland Homes addressed the Commission. Commissioner Jordan asked Mr. Green how the residential sales are doing. Mr. Green stated that it was rough in the beginning of 2011 and they had to reduce the prices substantially. Although the prices have made it back to where they started two years ago and they are now sold out. Chairman Morsch asked if all 48 lots are pre -sold. Mr. Green stated that they are not pre -sold and indicated that they haven't even been released yet for sale and noted that they didn't close on the property until a few weeks ago. He stated that he hopes to release them at the end of May and invited everyone to the opening. Chairman Morsch asked what the prices ranges are. Mr. Green stated the prices range from the mid to high $200,000. City of Lake Elsinore Planning Commission Meeting Minutes of April 16, 2013 Page 4 of 9 Vice Chairman O'Neal stated that he concurs with staffs recommendation. Commissioner Blake asked how many square feet the smallest home is. Mr. Green stated approximately 2,090 square feet which is $270,000, and the largest home is priced at approximately $299,000 to $305,000. Commissioner Blake asked if they are building models. Mr. Green stated no and indicated that this was part of the ability for them to buy the next lots and use the existing model complex. Commissioner Blake suggested that a wonderful alternative for front yards is artificial turf. Also, he indicated that it is better for the California environment. Mr. Green stated that they are having a community coming up soon and will look into providing artificial turf as an option for front yards. Commissioner Jordan indicated as long as the HOA approves it. Chairman Morsch asked if the residential homes are within earshot of the mining operation. Mr. Green stated yes. Chairman Morsch asked if there are any provisions in the buyer's agreement for constructive notice if the mining operations are ongoing. Mr. Green stated yes, and indicated that as a public builder, they disclose that there are continuing operations and noise that come from the operation. Motion by Vice Chairman O'Neal and seconded by Commissioner Jordan to approve Resolution No. 2013 -40, a Resolution of the Planning Commission of the City of Lake Elsinore, California, approving Residential Design Review No. 2013 -01 within Tract Map No. 28214 -5 and 28214 -5; Motion passed 5 -0. 4. Residential Design Review No. 2013 -02 — A request by Richmond American Homes for approval of building designs for 26 residential units, for a single - family detached housing project located in Rosetta Canyon Recommendation It is recommended that the Planning Commission adopt a resolution approving Residential Design Review No. 2013 -02 based on Findings, Exhibits, and Conditions of Approval. Planning Consultant Coury presented the staff report. The applicant, Sondra Harris of Richmond American Homes, addressed the Commission. Commissioner Jordan asked the applicant if the Commission has approved this product before. Ms. Harris stated yes and indicated that they are currently building the Cypress community in Canyon Hills and stated that the single -story homes are very popular. Commissioner Jordan asked if the architectural elements are comparable to what is currently being proposed. Ms. Harris stated that they did change the elevations, roof pitches, etc. on the current design review. Commissioner Jordan asked why they didn't carry the banding around the garage. City of Lake Elsinore Planning Commission Meeting Minutes of April 16, 2013 Page 5 of 9 Richmond American Homes' architect explained the architectural features. Vice Chairman O'Neal stated that he likes the banding feature as is. He is pleased that staff made sure that the development fits in with the product. Commissioner Blake stated that with two -story homes, the option for a bedroom downstairs is beneficial long term. Commissioner Gray stated that the project is consistent to what has been done in the past and is a success. Chairman Morsch stated that the developer has designed something that is hopefully timeless. He also indicated that there will be a new Fire Station in the area which was approved by the City Council. Motion by Vice Chairman O'Neal and seconded by Commissioner Jordan to approve Resolution No. 2013 -51, a Resolution of the Planning Commission of the City of Lake Elsinore, California, recommending approval of Residential Design Review No. 2013 -02; Motion passed 5 -0. 5. Uniform Sign Program No. 2013 -01 — A request for approval of a Uniform Sign Program for the Lake Elsinore Town Center (32231 — 32295 Mission Trail Road). Review and approval is pursuant to the applicable chapters of the Lake Elsinore Municipal Code Recommendation As the Sign Program is currently proposed, staff recommends denial of Uniform Sign Program No. 2013 -01. In the alternative, if based upon the information presented at the public hearing on this matter, the Planning Commission believes that all relevant issues have been satisfactorily addressed; staff recommends that the Planning Commission adopt a resolution approving Uniform Sign Program No. 2013 -01 based on the Findings and Exhibits, and subject to Conditions of Approval. Planning Consultant Coury presented the staff report. Joe Calabrese, Architect, discussed the signs related to the architecture. Joe Silva, the applicant of Inland Signs, requested replacement of two pylon signs along Mission Trail Road, a monument sign at the northwest corner of Mission Trail Road and Malaga Road and various wall signs throughout the existing shopping center. There was discussion regarding the size of letters on the signs that the applicant was requesting approval of and if it complied with the City's Ordinance and sign City of Lake Elsinore Planning Commission Meeting Minutes of April 16, 2013 Page 6 of 9 criteria. There was reference to the Lake Elsinore Outlet Center and why various sizes of signs were permitted at that location. Chairman Morsch suggested asking the City Attorney about the Municipal Code specifications. City Attorney Leibold stated that it would require a variance or an amendment to the Code's Sign Program regulations. She also clarified that the Outlet Center is not subject to the Municipal Code provisions that the applicant is subject to because it is a Specific Plan which carries its own sign regulations. She indicated that Staff provided an alternative recommendation with conditions requiring modifications to conform to the Municipal Code and stated that the Commission can also make a recommendation to City Council to initiate an Amendment to the Sign Program and to the Municipal Code provisions regulating signs. Steve Manos, Lake Elsinore City Council, suggested making a recommendation to the City Council to modify the Ordinance for approval or non - approval. Commissioner Jordan asked if the applicant can file a variance. Acting Planning Manager MacHott stated the applicant can file a variance. However, he doesn't believe Staff can recommend approval of the variance and noted that the variance provisions in the Municipal Code specifically refer to unique circumstances concerning the property and in this case there is nothing unique about the property to have different signage. Commissioner Jordan asked the applicant when they need this to be approved. Vice Chairman O'Neal stated that this project was scheduled to come before the Commission in June. He spoke to the Mayor who indicated that the applicant requested to move forward due to a time constraint. June Wilson, Property Manager at the Lake Elsinore Town Center indicated that they are extremely excited to do this project and hoping that the Commission had a chance to see all of the improvements that have been made. She stated that there is a time issue and it was her requested a meeting with the Mayor that prompted them to get onto the Agenda sooner. She stated that the completion is to be done in eight weeks and the tenants are already requesting to have their signs put back up and now the Commission is saying that it will take more time and is requesting their help. Ms. Wilson asked about an appeal. Acting Planning Manager MacHott stated that an appeal has to be filed within 15 days. Chairman Morsch stated that a suggestion on the table is to amend the Municipal Code to allow some variation with a Sign Ordinance. However, he indicated that he doesn't feel comfortable with this because the Sign Ordinance would impact all businesses in the City. Mr. Calabrese asked if it is possible to approve the Sign Program and if there is a problem with the height, to come back before the Commission on a case by case basis for individual tenants. City of Lake Elsinore Planning Commission Meeting Minutes of April 16, 2013 Page 7 of 9 Chairman Morsch stated that according to Chapter 17.196 of the Municipal Code building frontage may not be combined to permit a larger sign on any one building. Acting Planning Manager MacHott stated technically yes. However, in the spirit of the section, such as the Uniform Sign Program, it may be possible for the City to be more flexible but referred this to the City Attorney. Commissioner Blake complimented Mr. Calbrese on the project and indicated that they did a fantastic job on the Lake Elsinore Town Center. He stated that as long as the sizes of the signs are uniform, it will look gorgeous from the street and if they stay with staffs recommendation, they will have a stealth project. Commissioner Gray stated that it is a great project. Commissioner Jordan stated that she is excited about what they are doing at the Lake Elsinore Town Center and indicated that she and her family go there often. She suggested going with the recommendation of staff and work with City Council regarding the Ordinance due to the time constraint. Vice Chairman O'Neal stated that he believes the applicant's request is reasonable and is disappointed that they are boxed into the limits of the Municipal Code. He stated that what is being proposed is reasonable. Chairman Morsch suggested a recommendation to the City Council for a variation of signs. However, he understands that the City is confined to the rules due to the City's set standard. Ms. Wilson asked if it's possible to lump all of the signs together or to separate the signs by building. Acting Planning Manager MacHott stated that he re -read the language which refers to signage per building and since she has multiple tenants per building, the City can be flexible. If the entire building meets the one to one standard then the City can look at building by building and it doesn't have to be a separate permit for each individual sign. Commissioner Jordan stated that she would like to approve the project if it will help the applicant. Acting Planning Manager MacHott read staff's alternative recommendation to the Commission and noted that proposed Condition #7 states "Letter heights shall not exceed 24 -inch for in -line, pad and minor tenants and 48 -inch for major tenants. Therefore, indicated that if the Commission would like to allow the 36 -inch letters, staff would need to amend that Condition. There was discussion regarding Condition No. 7 between the applicant and the Commissioners. Planning Consultant Coury suggested striking out Condition No. 7 and approve the Uniform Sign Program and to have Mr. Silva put the 24 inch, along with 36 48 and 60 inch letter height. City of Lake Elsinore Planning Commission Meeting Minutes of April 16, 2013 Page 8 of 9 Motion by Vice Chairman O'Neal and seconded by Commissioner Jordan to approve Resolution No. 2013 -52, a Resolution of the Planning Commission of the City of Lake Elsinore, California, approving Uniform Sign Program No. 2013- 01; and delete Condition No. 7; Motion passed 5 -0. BUSINESS ITEM(S) None. STAFF COMMENTS None. PLANNING COMMISSIONER'S COMMENTS Commissioner Blake stated that due to an accident involving a school bus and a vehicle on Summerhill in Tuscany Hills, the road was blocked for many hours. He indicated that there is no secondary ingress /egress in the neighborhood and should have been completed. He stated that the Commission should be mindful so that the situation doesn't happen again. Also, he stated that it was a great celebration for the 125th Anniversary for the City. Vice Chairman O'Neal stated that he was incredibly moved by the tragedy in Boston and wishes the best for victims involved. Chairman Morsch asked Public Works Director Seumalo, regarding the issue of Summerhill, if they keep the fire gate at Bella Vista unlocked in case there is a fire. Public Works Director Seumalo stated that it is locked and indicated that until fire personnel get to that location, there is only one way up and down. Chairman Morsch asked the City Attorney for an update regarding the ownership of the lot across from the Cultural Center and what the City can and can't do with the lot. City Attorney Leibold stated that the Redevelopment Agency acquired a total of five parcels for purposes of building a business incubator project. The project did not go forward and the Agency went through a dissolution process and she explained the process. The Cultural Center is owned by the Agency and it is a Governmental purpose property, which has been maintained by the City for years. She explained that the property across from the Cultural Center may be promoted as a public purpose integral to the Downtown Master Plan and is still subject to the parameters of the Downtown Master Plan. Chairman Morsch stated that a number of businesses are closing on Main Street and noted how critical it is to have ease of parking for these businesses. He indicated that parking behind the shops on Main Street is not secure. However, the City has a large property across from the Cultural Center which could be used for parking as well as other events for the City, such as car shows, Farmers City of Lake Elsinore Planning Commission Meeting Minutes of April 16, 2013 Page 9 of 9 Market, etc. and would vitalize the Downtown area. He also expressed his sympathy over the loss of lives in Boston and his thoughts and prayers go out to the victims. CITY ATTORNEY'S COMMENTS None. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business to come before the Planning Commission, Chairman Morsch adjourned the meeting at 7:47 p.m. The Lake Elsinore Planning Commission will adjourn to a regular meeting to be held on Tuesday, May 7, 2013 at 6 :00 p.m. to be held at the Senior Activities Center located at 420 E. Lakeshore Drive, Lake Elsinore, CA 92530. i k Morsch, Chairman City of Lake Elsinore Attest: Richard ` °J. MacHott Acting Planning Manager