2006-09-28 PC MinutesMINUTES OF THE MEETING
OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION
OF THE CITY OF EL SEGUNDO, CALIFORNIA
SEPTEMBER 28, 2006
Chairman Kretzmer called the meeting of the El Segundo Planning CALL TO ORDER
Commission to order at 7:05 p.m. in the Council Chamber of the City of El
Segundo City Hall, 350 Main Street, El Segundo, California.
Chairman Kretzmer led the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.
PRESENT: KRETZMER, FRICK, WAGNER, ROTOLO, FELLHAUER
None.
None.
None.
PLEDGE TO FLAG
ROLL CALL
PUBLIC
COMMUNICATIONS
CONSENT
CALENDAR
CALL ITEMS FROM
CONSENT
CALENDAR
Planning and Building Safety Interim Director, Gary Chicots, advised that the WRITTEN
Planning and Building Safety Department received a letter (of record) dated COMMUNICATIONS
and received September 28, 2006, relating to Environmental Assessment No.
690 and AUP No. 05-5 from El Segundo resident, Joy Daunis.
Chairman Kretzmer opened the public hearing.
Chairman Kretzmer presented Agenda Item No. H-1, Environmental
Assessment No. EA-690, Administrative Use Permit No. 05-5. Applicant:
Kenneth Garmoe. Address: 403 Main Street. Property Owner: Bill Ruane.
Planning Technician Schopp presented staff report.
Planning Technician Schopp stated that Planning and Building Safety does not
recommend approving the extended the hours of operation to 2:00 a.m. due to
the proximity of the business to residential uses at the rear of the property, but
instead recommends extending the hours to 12:00 a.m. on Fridays and
Saturdays subject to the kitchen remaining open to serve food and all other
original conditions of approval. She stated that a letter was received from Ms.
Joy Daunis and copies are available in the lobby and provided to the
Commissioners on the dais. She stated that she received one telephone call
expressing a similar concern on the availability of parking, possible noise,
loitering, and public notification.
Chairman Kretzmer inquired that in relation to Planning Staff's
recommendation of operations to be amended to 7:00 a.m. to 12:00 a.m. on
Friday and Saturday in consideration of the business proximity to the
residential uses, how did staff deal with the Purple Orchid and Tavern on Main,
as they are, in that, not residential uses and are as close or closer there?
PUBLIC HEARINGS,
NEW BUSINESS,
EA NO. 690 and
AUP NO. 05-5
Review business hour
of operation and verify
compliance of
conditions of approval.
El Segundo Planning Commission Minutes
September 28, 2006
Page 1
Planning Technician Schopp stated that the Purple Orchid's alcohol license
was issued prior to the City having a discretionary approval requirement and
Tavern on Main was issued under an Administrative Use Permit and there are
no immediate residential uses surrounding that property.
Chairman Kretzmer inquired as to whether or not they are the only two
businesses open past midnight.
Commissioner Rotolo wondered if the business owner had any comments
regarding the 12:00 a.m. time limit or if that was simply a compromise
proposed by staff.
Planning Manager Christensen clarified that the Agenda Item was listed under
New Business, Public Hearing, and should have been listed under New
Business not as Public Hearing. A public hearing is not required nor was it
noticed as a public hearing item; however, the Commissioners can still receive
comments from the public. In response to Commissioner Rotolo's question,
staff's opinion was that midnight was a reasonable hour for Friday and
Saturday evenings consistent with approvals of other businesses in the
Downtown and in consideration of potential noise impacts to surrounding
residences. Staff did not feel it was appropriate for weeknights and provided a
list of businesses with the hours that have a midnight close time on Friday and
Saturday. Staff stated they are still subject to the noise regulations under the
Municipal Code and the original conditions of approval.
Commissioner Rotolo commented that the letter from the owner dated August
3, 2006, requested the time frame of 6:00 a.m. to 2:00 a.m. and that the Staff's
Report stated 7:00 a.m. He wondered if Staff had an issue with that hour of
the morning?
Planning Manager Christensen replied that staff's recommendation is to keep it
at 7:00 a.m.
Assistant City Attorney Berger stated that as with any item on the Agenda, the
Commission must take public comment pursuant to State Law. He reiterated
what staff pointed out stating that the project was not noticed as a public
hearing nor was it required but certainly public comment should be taken.
Chairman Kretzmer opened Public comment.
Applicant Kenneth Garmoe introduces business partner, Hilary Condren. 2127
Power Street. Hermosa Beach
Mr. Condren indicated that the reason he is requesting to extend Su Casa
hours of operation is that 1) there is a need; 2) that it will help in the direction
of Main Street with what he thinks people want it to become; and 3) as a
requirement of the Administrative Use Permit process.
Mr. Condren stated that a whole other element of people are excluded from
any sort of night-time, social life and are forced to go to the four or five bars
that are open beyond 10:00 p.m. If a valuable, viable vibe were created where
a high -end restaurant could come in and actually make some money, remain
open beyond 11:00 p.m., get revenues during that period of time, and allowed
the landlords to charge more money for those spaces, all of the real estate
would increase in value and contributing to this town.
PUBLIC COMMENT
El Segundo Planning Commission Minutes
September 28, 2006
Page 2
Lastly, Mr. Condren stated that in El Segundo, every new owner of a business
desiring a liquor license for their business must go before the Planning
Commission to obtain a new Administrative Use Permit which, he believed,
was unlike all surrounding cities.
Commission Rotolo inquired with Mr. Condren about the letters of concern
which addressed car noise as they leave the restaurant, how it affected the
residential area located in the back, and asked him if he had ideas on litigating
those issues.
Mr. Condren stated that he did not believe the argument because none of the
customers park in back of the restaurant. The people that do park there live at
the residences located in the back but he was up for any suggestions.
Commissioner Rotolo inquired as to whether or not the rear door was left
closed, usable, but propped open which would be another concern about noise
getting outside of the restaurant.
Mr. Condren stated that they would shut it, but due to fire codes, must leave it
open.
Chairman Kretzmer inquired as to whether or not there was a patio in the back
area being used.
Mr. Condren responded "no".
Chairman Kretzmer inquired as to Mr. Condren's need to have his restaurant
open until 2:00 a.m.
Mr. Condren stated that they are still dialing -in a lot of their labor and food
costs, have only been open for four months, and have a lot of volume. It would
help them significantly if there were another source of revenue which takes the
subject back to the 6:00 a.m. so they can do breakfast because the restaurant
business is tough and they need to maximize the dollars.
Commissioner Rotolo inquired as to what time the restaurant presently opens
in the morning.
Mr. Condren explained that they presently open at 11:00 a.m. and are awaiting
the finalizing of their hours.
Commissioner Rotolo inquired as how important the additional hour in the
morning actually is on whether or not they will serve breakfast.
Mr. Condren replied that it was not crucial if they start at 7:00 a.m. instead of
6:00 a.m.
Commissioner Fellhauer inquired as to whether there were any plans to
expand at any point in time.
Mr. Condren replied, "sure".
Commissioner Fellhauer inquired with staff if Mr. Condren did expand the
restaurant to a neighboring location, whether it would have to come before the
Commission again.
El Segundo Planning Commission Minutes
September 28, 2006
Page 3
Planning Manager Christensen replied that since he would be modifying the
conditions of approval for this particular space, it would have to come before
the Commission for approval.
Chairman Kretzmer asked if any complaints were received from any one
directed to Mr. Condren or Mr. Garmoe.
Mr. Condren replied he did not receive any complaints.
Commissioner Rotolo inquired as to how busy it got Friday and Saturday nights
leading until 11:00 p.m.
Mr. Condren responded that they are busy but they have to have everyone out
of the restaurant by 11:00 p.m. which means no one can be seated past 9:30
p.m. without getting uncomfortable. He stated they are willing to compromise
and possibly 1:00 a.m. on the weekends and midnight during the week would
be the better time and would help significantly.
Joan Parker — 419'/2 Standard St.
Ms. Parker stated she had no problem with the extended hours of operation to
serve liquor, but did have concerns with the parking and noise issues. She
continued that if patrons of Su Casa decide to park in the area along side
Fantastic, they would be exiting right by her and her neighbor's bedrooms,
since it's one-way, and they already have somewhat of an issue there with
people leaving at 2:30 and 3:00 a.m. adding that any more people coming
would be a major concern.
Kelly Escobel - 408 Richmond St. Unit 8
Ms. Escobel stated that she did not see the difference among Su Casa, Chef
Hannes, and Second City Bistro which she felt were are all upper -scale and
welcomed restaurants; nor did she see why they feel the need to stay open
until 2:00 a.m. when Second City and Chef Hannes does not and did not see
the difference among the three restaurants. With regards to the "uniqueness of
the use permits" here in El Segundo, that's what keeps this town unique, small,
keeps the right element of people in or out. There's nothing wrong with the
way the Planning Commission applies use permits because that's what makes
El Segundo the small Mayberry town, and that's the way most of the residents
want to keep it.
Chairman Kretzmer inquired of Ms. Escobel as to whether she had any
particular issues.
Kelly Escobel - 408 Richmond St. Unit 8
Ms. Escobel replied they were all involved with the car alarm issue which
belonged to one of their neighbors that lived in their building, and Mr. Garmoe
was extremely helpful — they ended up having it towed by the Police
Department. She has heard car alarms, people singing, trash dumping, and all
cars driving down the alley.
James Perfetti 408 Richmond St. Unit 9
Mr. Perfetti stated that he likes what the restaurant has done, but that they just
do not want it open until 2:00 a.m. since it is located so very close to residential
bringing lots of noise. He believed the noise element would be worse if they
kept it open longer and that Su Casa is more of a family -oriented restaurant,
El Segundo Planning Commission Minutes
September 28, 2006
Page 4
but if they go to 2:00 a.m. hour, they would have a lot more of the heavier
drinking customer.
Chairman Kretzmer inquired with Mr. Perfetti as to whether or not he is getting
people coming out of the restaurant down the alley who are making a lot of
noise.
Mr. James Perfetti 408 Richmond St. Unit 9
Mr. Perfetti responded that the people that park in the back of the restaurant
can be heard quite easily and are of concern; also, he obtained signatures from
everyone in their complex on this matter.
Ms. Valerie Toney 400 Richmond St. Unit 3
She stated that the issue about the bottles is a huge one, that it is very, very
noisy, and the dumpster is not always closed.
Ms. Mona Isman 415 Concord St.
Ms. Isman stated she enjoys Su Casa and El Segundo residents have to make
a decision as to whether or not they only want the restaurant open for lunch.
She has returned to her residence late on several nights and just wanted a
place to sit and have a good meal. El Segundo is not just a town of families
with four -month olds, but also with young, single adults.
Su Casa is a great addition, as is Farm Stand, and she would like more of
those type of restaurants. She could understand not wanting to abut to a busy
street, but her challenge is Main Street was here first, in a sense, and as long
all the businesses are considerate of who's situated behind them, it doesn't
mean the City policy should be changed, nor should the town be shut down at
night. She believes the City looks at all things including to be considerate of all
residents, but should they stop the flourishing businesses. Maybe if Su Casa
built a business until 10, 11, 12:00 a.m., maybe Chef Hannes' would stay open
as well. It is a positive for the City of El Segundo and there should always be
concern and consideration by the applicant of the surrounding residents, and
not to stop the potential of creating a place to eat after 9:00 p.m.
El Segundo resident Tim McMannus - 420 1/2 Richmond St.
Mr. McMannus questioned whether the City needed another bar on Main Street
adding that 2:00 a.m. is too late, there is not enough parking on Main Street,
and parking would end up being a problem on the alley since you cannot park
thirty cars on Main Street.
Commissioner Frick inquiring with Planning Manager Christensen as to
whether there was anyone currently looking to build a residence above their
business on Main Street.
Planning Manager Christensen replied that Staff has not had any recent
inquires about adding residential.
Commissioner Frick directing her comment to Mr. Condren, stated she would
hope they go back and take those concerns just heard into consideration.
Commissioner Rotolo explained that the major reason the Downtown Specific
Plan was created was for Main Street to flourish. He enjoyed the late night
options, but there are some neighbors that would be impacted. Certainly Mr.
El Segundo Planning Commission Minutes
September 28, 2006
Page 5
Condren agreeing to compromise to a 1:00 a.m., review on six months, and the
sign restrictions on late at night trash dumping to be put in the parking lot would
help.
Planning Manager Christensen stated they could condition it just as was done
the last time stating to come back in six months and build that into the
approval. Presently, there already is a condition in the existing entitlement
regarding excessive noise, and the City has a noise ordinance in the municipal
code that is applicable.
Commissioner Rotolo stated if the restaurant were to stay open later, it would
be in their best interest to take it upon themselves to try to litigate the noises.
Theoretically, they wouldn't require any additional verbiage to require that to
avoid revocation.
Commissioner Wagner explained that with the AUP process, the City has
opportunity to revoke it.
Planning Manager Christensen stated that the Commission could certainly add
a specific condition to address the trashing of bottles at night. She clarified
there is no approval or entitlement for any entertainment, or outdoor amplified
sound or a bar which would require a Conditional Use Permit which is a
separate entitlement.
Commissioner Fellhauer inquired if this means no live bands are allowed there.
Planning Manager Christensen responded, "No", and they would have to apply
for a Conditional Use Permit and go before the Commission for consideration.
Commissioner Fellhauer inquired as to whether it was possible to have the
back door an emergency exit door only, unlocked, and not to be used for
regular business.
Chairman Kretzmer stated if it were possible to close it as a point of ingress
and egress at 11:00 p.m. or midnight, while remaining available as an
emergency exit to satisfy Fire and Police.
Planning Manager Christensen explained that it was feasible and if there was
an issue with it, the condition could be drafted to make it subject to building and
fire codes, but that the main issue is exiting not entry.
Chairman Kretzmer commented that a sociology book could be written on all
the changes that have occurred within three or four blocks on Main Street - -
Mulberry is rapidly changing. It is an enormous commercial and business town
interest, as well as home to ten of the top 100 fortune companies and has
become a much younger town bursting at the seams, schools, athletic fields,
new kinds of families that are coming into the area. When you look at the
hours of operation they are talking about, Main Street probably provides lots of
parking after 9:00 p.m.
He has heard the concerns and the anticipated fears, but must look at the
evidence and what kinds of problems did they encounter. What they
encountered was a car alarm and one other complaint. No complaints of
rowdiness, fights, or an unruly bar crowd. He hasn't heard anything that tells
El Segundo Planning Commission Minutes
September 28, 2006
Page 6
him that this particular establishment has actually resulted in any of the
problems that were feared. They have had our test period and it has been
served well.
Su Casa it is great restaurant, the owners are very good, responsible citizens,
and believed the owners will work very hard with the employees to minimize
the noises when closing down. He continued by stating that he takes the
concerns of the residences seriously and urged the audience to come to them
if there's an issue, but didn't think there will be any.
Appropriate hours of operation would be a midnight Sunday thru Thursday and
Friday night to 1:00 a.m. with a six-month limit on it to come back to the
Planning Commission just to make sure they are continuing to address the
issues; a restriction that the back door closes at 11:00 p.m. for exit purposes;
the kitchen stays open for the hours of operation of the business; and a written
set of guidelines for their employees on handling the trash, etc. be composed.
Vice Chairman Frick stated that reviewing the establishment in a year would be
a better time -frame which would include the summer cycle because she did not
want to keep bringing the applicants back.
Commissioner Rotolo addressed the applicant, Mr. Condren, that it is the best
interest to accommodate their customers and neighbors.
Commissioner Fellhauer stated they would hope the applicant would address
those concerns brought up tonight.
Chairman Kretzmer questioned if they put it as a condition, are there any
Health Department requirements that would not allow you to keep the trash in
the restaurant.
Mr. Condren, explained that the trash could not be left in the restaurant, but it
could be left outside deck and be taken it to the bin in the morning.
Mr. Garmoe explained that the AUP already has a condition about noise and
they would continue to do a better job of making sure the trash does not get
taken out too late at night.
Chairmen Kretzmer stated he would trust that both Mr. Condren and Mr.
Garmoe do exactly what they have represented to do.
There being no further input, Chairman Kretzmer closed the hearing.
Chairman Kretzmer stated that the form of the motion would be Sunday
through Thursday 7:00 a.m. to midnight, Friday and Saturday to 1:00 a.m.
Commissioner Rotolo motioned to modify the hours of operation and MOTION
preventative noise measures for Environmental Assessment No. 690 and
Administrative Use Permit No. 05-5 consistent with what the Planning
Commission has directed, seconded by Commissioner Fellhauer. The
modifications is as follows: Sunday through Thursday, 7:00 a.m. to midnight,
and Friday and Saturday, 7:00 a.m. to 1:00 a.m.; require the rear door to read
"emergency exit only" after 11:00 p.m.; that the business owners create a set
of standards for their employees in minimizing the noise in the late evening and
El Segundo Planning Commission Minutes
September 28, 2006
Page 7
closing hours, and further, that the case be reviewed in one year. The set of
standards for their employees purposed by the Applicant, and found
acceptable by the Director, shall be given to Planning and Building Director,
Gary Chicots, for review within ten days. Motion carried 5-0.
Chairman Kretzmer thanked everyone for their participation.
Chairman Kretzmer presented Agenda Item No. H-2, Environmental
Assessment No. EA-711, and Subdivision No. 06-4, Vesting Tentative Map No.
64217. Applicant: CAM Construction. Address 443 Richmond Street/210 W.
Pine Street. Applicant: CAM Construction Inc. Property Owner: CAM
Construction Inc.
Planning Technician Schopp presented staff report.
The project is a request to merge two existing lots into one lot to construct a 4-
unit condominium and meets all zoning requirements. It is consistent with the
General Plan, Goal 3 of the City's Housing Element, categorical exempt
pursuant to California Environmental Quality Act, Class 3, as a multi -family
residential development, and none of the findings for denial exists. One
condition received from Public Works requires the applicant to relocate the
parkway along Pine so that the parkway is closest to the curb with the sidewalk
being interior, and recommends approval subject to the conditions of approval
contained draft resolution No. 2609. Inquiries from residents were received
expressing concern over density and the lack of parking in the area; however,
the project complies with all development standards including parking.
Commissioner Fellhauer questioned as to whether there was any reason that
there was not a CC&R included for requiring that the garages not be used
solely for storage and that they leave enough space available for parking.
Planning Technician Schopp responded most certainly and that if it was absent
in the packet, then they can certainly add it to the CC & Rs.
Chairman Kretzmer explained that they had that similar condition in any
number of projects, if it's not in there, then they should have it.
Planning Technician Schopp explained that on page 57, Condition number 58
states "the applicant must record the Covenants, Conditions and Restrictions
(CC&Rs) specifying that no storage is permitted within the required parking
spaces consistent with the El Segundo Municipal Code".
Commissioner Rotolo - The existing city tree on Richmond Street, it appears on
the plans that it remains, is that correct.
Planning Technician Schopp replied that yes, in fact, it is a condition of
approval Parks and Recreation has requested that the tree remain in place.
Applicant Representative Vargo explained that they are demolishing three
small bungalows that basically have two parking spaces on site and are not
taking away street parking for the new complex, one additional unit will be
being added, as well as ten parking spaces to accommodate the four units.
The project does meet all the development standards; the way it is designed it
creates some interesting and exciting street presence from both Pine and
Richmond Streets and she asks that the project be approved.
PUBLIC HEARINGS,
NEW BUSINESS,
EA NO. 711 AND
SUB 06-4; VTM 64217
A request to merge
two lots into one for
the purpose of
constructing a four -
unit condo.
El Segundo Planning Commission Minutes
September 28, 2006
Page 8
Commissioner Rotolo questioned if there were two existing parking spaces on -
site.
Applicant Representative Vargo stated there is a garage currently off the alley.
Gary Schmunk. 415 Concord Street
Mr. Schmunk stated his concern was density and parking. The parking where
he resides on Concord is terrible and he does not see the possibility of any
relief. Four units where there were two small single studio -sizes plus a home
in the front which means a lot more people. He would ask that for any future
projects, like this, that a study on the parking requirement per unit be done on
how many vehicles the average family has because the number has changed
tremendously. The density has gone crazy, and the parking overflow on the
300 block of Concord is so tremendous it runs all the way into the 400 block.
In a one -bedroom apartment, there's two or three people, two cars, two stalls
per unit plus two visitors parking and that is not sufficient. The code needs to
be revisited to make the parking issues more sufficient.
Bonnie Lietke. 501 and 503 Richmond Street
Ms. Lietke inquired whether or not the City could come up with a residential
two-hour parking limit permit parking to gain control of the parking problems?
She had also petitioned for a speed bump, but was told that because Pine is
such a busy street and the City needs police and fire access, and they cannot
put a speed bump on it. Putting this complex there is just going to cause more
parking problems.
Connie Thrasher, 512 Richmond Street
Ms. Thrasher stated that there will be an impact to the living conditions such as
the privacy and parking issues. Two parking spots along with two shared
visitors stalls is not going to be adequate, and I don't understand the benefit to
the City or the residents by packing a 4-units on a 7000 sq. ft. lot. They'll be
coming out of the alley on Pine St., unless they go the other route, and coming
out would be a safety hazard with a real business intersection at Pine and
Richmond Streets. What do they want the town to look like? Safety is the
bigger concern.
Janet Groves 219 W. Pine St.
Ms. Groves stated she lives in a small house facing Pine St., and the new
complex would be very, very intrusive on her privacy. They will be looking
directly into my living room, and the parking requirements for the new complex
are not enough - - Four -month old babies will grow -up and they will drive which
means one -more car on the street. The parking problem on this street is
severe and she suggested that somebody really look at this problem. They are
affected by Farmer's Market, all the fairs, the business, etc. There are no other
huge unit complexes as the one being proposed on Pine Street. This is going
to cause a huge parking problem, more so than they have now.
Sammy Kriestorac
I love the city, but if this goes up, I might have to move.
Kris Beck. 418 Concord St.
My neighbors told me about this meeting, but I didn't get a letter regarding this
meeting. I don't know how they are supposed to know about this but I ditto the
El Segundo Planning Commission Minutes
September 28, 2006
Page 9
parking problem. Another thing that wasn't brought up, was the street cleaning
and the parking problems that arise just from that is something else. The
parking issue really needs to be addressed and don't see how this is going to
help our street situation.
Mr. Contreras, 508 Richmond Street
I have the same problems with the cars. They've got the problems with the
schools, businesses, etc., think you should consider the potential added
parking problems.
Mona Isman, 415 Concord St.
Ms. Isman stated that parking situation is an awful problem and that El
Segundo must have a neighborhood vision with limits areas to be apartment
and condo dwellings, and homes. This particular complex blocks out a major,
beautiful area of El Segundo. There are magnificent homes in the particular
area where this complex will be constructed and will be blocked, and now
you've reduced the value of their homes.
Dennis Beck. 418 Concord Street
Mr. Beck questioned whether or not the people in the neighborhood were
suppose to get a mailer for tonight's Planning Commission Meeting.
Planninq Manaqer Christensen
Ms. Christensen explained that Notices were provided as per State Law
requirements which includes publishing in the El Segundo Herald newspaper.
Also property owners within 300' of the property are notified based on the
latest available information from the County Assessors Office on the property
owner of record is. The notice is also posted at City Hall.
Dennis Beck, 418 Concord Street
Mr. Beck explained that he was a property owner of 17 years and within a 300-
foot radius as were most of the people here tonight, but none of them received
a letter and wondered how staff checks that process. He believed there would
have only been standing -room only at tonight's meeting had residents been
noticed and closed by commenting how he loved this town and hoped it would
not be like Manhattan Beach.
Applicant's Representative Vargo explained that nothing is completely a done -
deal that's why the Planning Commission is here and when a project is
designed to meet development standards, certain items have to be taken into
consideration under state law. More bedrooms does not necessarily mean
more people because it could be used as a den, office, guestroom, and they
have the requirements in the CC&R's that the garages cannot be used for
storage but must be used for two motor vehicles as required by code. The
property is zoned R-3, a transition to the R-1 neighborhood, there are a certain
inherent rights that go with an R-3 property; however, there is still a front yard,
and the units front doors will face Richmond and Pine Sts., so it will have that
inviting look. The condominiums are typically bought by young couples starting
out, it doesn't block anyone's sunlight because of the setbacks and it sits on a
corner, and would like the Planning Commission to approve the project.
Janet Groves 219 W. Pine St.
Ms. Groves understood and realized the development standards comply but
still felt it was insensible.
El Segundo Planning Commission Minutes
September 28, 2006
Page 10
Chairman Kretzmer closed the public hearing.
Chairman Kretzmer thanked everyone for their comments and told everyone of
a recent single-family unit that was taken out and repeated his sentiment that
just because you can do it, doesn't mean you should. The vesting tentative
map is granted unless they find that it does not comply with the requirements,
and the particular project is an R-3 Zone and appears to meet the law and
statutes.
Vice -Chair Frick explained that she would love to deny this map, but as it was
stated, that would be difficult since everything is in order. Addressing the
quality of living should be addressed for those people with whom their privacy
would be affected.
Chairman Kretzmer explained that as long as he has been on the Commission,
he has railed about the traffic on Richmond, Pine, Virginia, especially, because
it runs by the school; unfortunately, that was, in affect, an issue for another
time and place. It was not within the scope of tonight's project, but he wanted
everyone here to know their comments were certainly heard. He further
explained that one of the things about findings for denial of a subdivision is that
the design or proposed improvements are likely to cause substantial
environmental damage or substantially and unavoidably injure fish or wildlife or
their habitat which closes the door a little bit for us. He had not been able to
find that the site is not physically suitable for this type of development — that is
more of a technical requirement. The site is not physically suitable for the
proposed density of the development. This project fits in within the R-3
standards.
Planning Manager Christensen explained that it is a technical requirement, it
really addresses topography and the physical ability to construct and as the
site is a fairly level, standard, rectangular lot. It complies with the General Plan
and the density with a net of one new unit.
Chairman Kretzmer explained that he would encourage all of the audience to
go to the City Council because these are serious and unnerving issues for all;
however, within the scope of what they are asking tonight and within the
responsibility of this Commission is charged, he could not make a finding that
would justify a denial of the subdivision based on the criteria that they must
consider.
Commissioner Rotolo explained that the zoning codes all allow for this use and
the density of this area; unfortunately, where the residents live, is adjacent to
R-3, and R-2, and it does fit into the requirements of the code. Given that, he
did not see any reason to deny it.
Chairman Kretzmer inquired with Ms. Vargo as to whether she would consent
to a provision in the resolution that the property owner and her, as the
representative, will meet with the adjacent property owners and consult with
them with regard to the design of the property.
Applicant Representative Vargo replied she, in fact, would meet with them
upon request.
El Segundo Planning Commission Minutes
September 28, 2006
Page 11
Assistant City Attorney Berger explained that they could add a condition, page
58, condition 62, which would read, "Consultant agrees to meet and confer
upon request with adjacent property owners with regards to relative privacy
issues".
Commissioner Fellhauer moved, seconded by Vice Chairman Frick to approve
Environmental Assessment No. EA-711 and Subdivision No. 06-4, Vesting MOTION
Tentative Map No. 64217, Resolution 2609, adding condition number 62
reading "Consultant agrees to meet and confer upon request with adjacent
property owners with regards to relative privacy issues". Motion carried 5-0
None.
CONTINUED
BUSINESS
Planning and Building Safety Interim Director Chicots stated the next
scheduled Planning Commission Meeting will be adjourned. REPORT FROM
DIRECTOR
Commissioner Rotolo stated he would like a copy of the R-1 ordinance that
was adopted. PLANNING
COMMISSIONERS'
Chairman Kretzmer stated that he watched the City Council meeting held on COMMENTS
October 3, 2006, with regards to what they considered at the last Planning
Commission meeting held August 24, 2006, and he had serious concerns
about what was presented to City Council versus what they actually did on the
Planning Commission meeting. He is requesting a copy of the Staff Report
that went to before the City Council and for all future staff reports that are
prepared by Planning Staff. He believed he has an obligation as Chairman of
the Commission, to ensure the proper tone and that all of their comments are
conveyed to Council and taken seriously by City Council.
Planning Manager Christensen explained that she will make sure that the City
Clerk puts the Planning Commissioners on their distribution lists.
None.
None.
PUBLIC
COMMUNICATIONS
OTHER BUSINESS
The meeting adjourned at 9:34 p.m. ,� ADJOURNMENT
PASSED AND APPROVED ON THIS 8th DAY OF FEBI�UARY/LJ007.
Gary Chicots, Secre�do of
The Planning Comr4itsion
and Interim Director of
Planning and Building Safety Department
Michael Kretzmer,/Chairman of
The Planning Commissioner
City of El Segundb,_California
El Segundo Planning Commission Minutes
September 28, 2006
Page 12