PC - Minutes 7-5-94CITY OF ROSEMEAD
8838 VALLEY BOULEVARD
ROSEMEAD, CALIFORNIA
PLANNING COMMISSION
REGULAR MEETING
July 5, 1994
MINUTES
1. CALL TO ORDER - The regular meeting of the Planning Commission
of the City of Rosemead was called to order by Commissioner
Ruiz who acted as Chairman for tonight's meeting with Chairman
Lowrey as Vice Chairman of the evening at 7:00 p.m. in the
Council Chambers of the Rosemead City Hall, 8838 E. Valley
Boulevard, Rosemead.
The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Commissioner Ruiz.
The Invocation was delivered by Commissioner Ortiz.
2. ROLL CALL - Present: Loi, Ruiz, Lowrey, Breen, Ortiz
Absent: None
Ex Officio: Wagner, Price, Lyons, Pickett
3. APPROVAL OF MINUTES - Regular meeting of June 20, 1994
(MO) It was moved by Commissioner Ortiz, seconded by Vice-Chairman
Lowrey, to approve the minutes of the regular meeting of June
20, 1994. Vote resulted:
Yes: Loi, Ruiz, Lowrey, Breen, Ortiz
No: None
Abstain: None
Absent: None
4. EXPLANATION OF HEARING PROCEDURES AND APPEAL RIGHTS - City
Attorney Stanton Price explained the public hearing process and
the right to appeal decisions of the Planning Commission to the
City Council.
5. ADMINISTRATION OF OATH - The secretary administered the oath to
members of the audience wishing to speak.
PUBLIC HEARINGS
6. CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT 94-615 - 8923 Mission Drive - Request
from Long Fu Kao & Jui Chun Liu for the transfer of an existing
ABC license for the off-site sale of alcoholic beverages in
conjunction with a market at Rose Market.
Mr. Lyons presented the staff report with the recommendation to
approve for one (1) year, subject to the conditions of approval
listed in Exhibit "A".
Having no questions from the Commission, the Chairman opened
the public hearing.
Addressing the Commission in favor of the request was the
daughter of the current owner of the business, Sonia Chang.
Ms. Chang stated that her parents are eager to sell the
business due to the mother's illness that had gotten worse.
And since her parents were the ones tending the business, they
are presently unable to handle it. And for any problems, they
were willing to comply and resolve them.
There being no one else wishing to address the Commission, the
public hearing was close.
•
PC Minutes 7-5-94
page 2.
46
(MO) Without discussion, it was moved by Commissioner Breen,seconded
by Commissioner Loi, to approve Conditional Use Permit 94-615.
Vote resulted:
Yes: Loi, Ruiz, Lowrey, Breen, Ortiz
No: None
Abstain: None
Absent: None
OTHER BUSINESS
7. MODIFICATION OF ZONE VARIANCE 92-238 - 8632 E. Valley Boulevard
- Request from Jan Tai Giang to expand the hours of operation
for restaurant use at the BBQ #1 Restaurant.
Mr. Lyons presented the staff memorandum and recommended a one
year approval, subject to the conditions outlined in Exhibit
"An
Commissioner Loi had some concern with the kitchen facility to
support the applicant's request for expanding the hours of
operation as a sit down restaurant and to increase the numbers
of seats for the diners.
Mr. Lyons responded
expansion of busines
the existing kitchen
the need.
It was ascertained
attendance.
that the applicant's request was for
s hours and increase of dining seats with
facility being sufficiently large to meet
that the new owner/applicant was in
Bob Young, 3612 Marybeth Avenue, Rosemead. Mr. Young
addressing the Commission in favor of the project and speaking
on behalf of the applicant stated that the request was for an
increase of occupancy to 24 diners and for expansion of
business hours. But since staff would not support an increase
in occupancy, they are agreeable with how staff felt and they
were not requesting for more than what they already have. The
request is for the expansion of the length of time the
restaurant is open for business. He continued that said
restaurant was actually a sandwich shop and not a full fledge
restaurant. Mr. Young clarified that the place will just be
extending their hours of operation and with no additional
seatings.
In relation to seating capacity, Commissioner Ortiz stated that
the present condition of approval allows for an occupancy load
of 16 diners, but the restaurant presently has 30 seats.
Mr. Young responded that the applicant was not concerned with
the seating capacity but their main issue was to request for
the expansion of business hours.
Commissioner Ortiz stated that currently, the restaurant has
six (6) tables of four seats and two (2) tables of two seats,
and he would like an explanation for this.
Mr. Lyons responded that having more seats than 16 does not
necessarily mean that there will be more than 16 diners but
just a number of combinations of seats, although the number of
table spaces should be reduced.
Commissioner Ortiz felt that seating capacity should be
clarified.
Chairman Ruiz responded that a seating combination or
requirement should be met in order to clarify this matter.
0 0
PC Minutes 6-20-94
page 3.
lost a lot of money, he pays the fee all over again, pay me
all over again to re-draw the plan. In fact, the one you
see right there is almost the fifth version of what you
know we come up with. I know that it will make the look of
the project better take the two units away but again that
will jack up the cost of the property and then we defeat
the purpose of providing affordable housing. We need your
understanding, this is our three lot when they bought it
they thought they can build some condominium or apartment
but again that lot is not good either besides this is a
good compromise we build single family house in our three
lot and I think somehow the City should appreciate what
they have done. And probably the City did, that's why we
got the approval last time. But now, we have problems, we
have you know difficulties we need your help. That's why
we're here again and you have the floor plans with you, you
probably know that, the building we're building that they
are customed built houses, with the gates, sliding gates,
private gates in the front it will be one of the you know
still the very nice project in the City. And as far as the
zero lot line approach, it's all over now. That's the only
way to work right now. As far as the easement and the, you
know, and the other the driveway, you know make the
driveway wide enough for the Fire Department we have no
problem. We agreed to work with the City. As far as the
four units in the back that the driveway looks kind a ugly
we can re-arrange a little bit to put some landscaping in
that is still acceptable we can work. However, to take
away the 18 and 19, Mrs. Lau just told me earlier that it's
too big for her to take. And even though it's not my
project, I'm just working here, I feel sorry if that's the
case, you know, this project the cost will go up,
definitely. I'm here to answer, ready to answer whatever
question you may have.
LOWREY: Okey, maybe in a little bit Mr. Cheng. Thank you very
much.
ORTIZ: Mr. Chairman.
LOWREY: Commissioner Ortiz.
ORTIZ: Yes, you indicated affordable housing. What is affordable
housing? Where do they gonna go in if you have 19 or if
you reduce it now what is the cost of these homes?
CHENG: Okey, good question. Right now, the government is making.
ORTIZ: My question is what is affordable, how much are these gonna
go for?
CHENG: I'm going to tell you that. In fact I haven't had a chance
to talk to them yet, but everything is tied to what kind of
financing you can get. Anything below $200,000 or in that
neighborhood the Federal government have all kind of
program to make a loan, make the interest rate very
attractive and we are targeting about $220,000. If we lose
2 units then it wouldn't be possible. The guy just have a
bigger yard, that's all but we lose those 2 units. It
makes it harder for the buyer to then we're talking about
$250,000, I don't know, in fact $250,000 or $260,000. And
then, you know what, we will be competing with some of the
older homes that were foreclosed by the bank. We can't
sell, because the older homes will have bigger yards. The
only competitive act we have is a new home, it's new, it's
fresh, it's clean, it's beautiful. But if the price is
about the same or beyond the reach, they won't buy it.
It's not easy I tell you, you know, I have so many clients
PC Minutes 6-20-94
page 4.
we just scrap the project I just, you know, some even go
out and have to develop in Las Vegas, Arizona, Texas, they
lost their interest in southern California.
LOWREY: Any more questions Mr. Ortiz?
ORTIZ: No, that's it, thank you.
LOWREY: Anybody else while Mr. Cheng's on his feet, Commissioner
Ruiz any questions?
RUIZ: Oh, yeah, I just want to make some comments.
LOWREY: Do you want to do that when we close the public hearing or
now?
RUIZ: One of the things that really concern me was the 30 foot
wide fire lane. Looking at the plan and staff reports, I
see that there's very little access there and in the event
that there was cars parked there, that would narrow the
entry main street.
CHENG: No cars are supposed to, you know, permitted to park.
RUIZ: Certainly, certainly they're not supposed to but that
doesn't mean that they won't.
LYONS: If I may, Chairman, I just want to add a little bit since
you brought that up. When we work with the Fire
Department, we look at the worst case scenario and that 34
feet is their requirement designed for people who will
break the law or break the code requirements and park their
cars there on either side. But the fire department says if
they have cars on either side of the 34 foot driveway they
can still get by that's okey. That's why they want 34 it's
almost as if it's a public street, and the public can go
ahead and park there.
LOWREY: Are there any questions from Mr. Cheng? Thank you, Mr.
Cheng.
CHENG: Oh, I also want to point out that in the City of Los
Angeles there are roads that are even narrower than this
and they allow parking on both sides. Thank you.
LOWREY: Anybody else wish to speak in favor of this project?
Anybody wish to speak in opposition to this project?
RAUTH: My name is John Rauth, R-a-u-t-h. I live at 4528 Bartlett
which is next to the so called nursery and I'm within a 300
feet of a proposed development. I was here 4 years ago,
and spoken in opposition to this project and at that time
it was recorded that I had mixed emotions about the project
and that it will eliminate the bad area but replaced it
with too much density. I don't have any mix emotions
about this one at all, I am in total opposition to this
this time. This time, we are getting 19 units in there as
you could see and this is just absolute density, as far as
I'm concerned. This is density and it's unprecedented plot
plan setting these properties on the zero lot line concept
is unprecented, unprecedented kind of thing. I can't see
where you can have all kinds of legal problems with this
kind of thing within the neighbor yes you mean the neighbor
has to work on somebody else's property gets injured there
could be legal problems here. I know we're going to wash
our hands of it 'cause it's not our we're not going to
worry about that. You know this gentleman was here 4 years
ago and did the same kind of pleading that he is doing here
• •
PC Minutes 6-20-94
page 7.
about, this is the single family homes with zoning that has
the large setbacks in front or the rear that has the floor
area ratio requirements. There's a small percentage of
property that are either dark brown as you'll see it, that
are generally found along the busier streets; that portion
of Mission down toward to Rosemead Boulevard, Rosemead
Boulevard some portions of Hellman and this piece currently
is within that zone. So this piece makes up, makes up a
very small percentage of the zoning of the City. And I
think it'd be wrong if we continually throw it in with the
property that makes up the lion share of the City and that
is the R-1, as you can see it, and the R-2. I think,
that's why there's a little bit of surprise here and this
isn't your stereo typical subdivision because it's not
zoned for a stereo typical subdivision, it's zoned for
multi family.
LOWREY: Thank you, Mr. Lyons. Thank you, Mr. Nunez.
NUNEZ: Well, I'm not through yet. I believe that there's been a
concern with the Council the homes would it have any play
area with the children and in this case would there be
enough play area in this development?
LOWREY: Mr. Lyons.
LYONS: If I may, there was a concern that there wasn't enough
floor space or open space so the requirement was to reduce
the bulk of those buildings down a bit which the floor area
ratio does. I should also add though that every unit
that's created will have to pay a large fee that's called a
Park's Department fee requiring that they pay and I think
it's $800.00 towards the Park's Department to allow them to
create and maintain parks throughout the City. They also
have to pay a school fee of around $2,000, $3,000 which
goes towards the school district to help pay for any impact
on the school district. The school district has received a
letter, all the service providers, the park's dept., the
school depts. have received letters and have commented. So
I'd like it be known that if there's a discussion of impact
on schools, impact on open space, that these projects are
required to mitigate this impact through fees for parks and
schools.
NUNEZ: But again, children that are small enough had to go to the
park, you know, and play around home. As I understood it,
that this was a concern of the Council and if this area,
will this area have enough of a play area for the children?
LYONS: you know, with the zero lot line requirement, instead of
having too small 5 foot setbacks on either side, you have
one big 10 foot setback that comes around to the rear,
we're also requiring the removal of those 2 units (#19 &
#18), that they provide for more yard space. We truly
think that there will be a yard area there. In addition,
as we all know, some of these young families with kids have
a hard time being able to afford a brand new house, and I
think, some of them would gladly accept a smaller backyard
if they can at least get into the homeownership market. So
I think, what you've got is a little bit of a compromise
here. If we require large yards for the children to play
in, you may prevent some of these young families from even
purchasing the house to begin with. But again, those
concerns are really slanted towards the R-1 and R-2
properties. This being in a more of a multi family zone,
we expect these units not to provide as much open space.
•
PC Minutes 6-20-94
page 5.
right now that he couldn't, he couldn't even put 13 units
in there. He was allowed to put 13 units in there a very
nice development and he let the ball drop. Mr. Ortiz, I
think, that you were on the Commission at that time. I
think you should all be aware of what happened there and at
that time you were concerned about 50% lot coverage. And
we are now in a P-D development thing, and they don't see
it worry about that kind of thing anymore. I talked to
the gentleman (referring to Mr. Lyons) here about this
"FAR" thing it's not even involved in this program. I
don't understand what kind of rules that we're playing this
thing to nowadays. I don't understand that. There doesn't
seem to be any standard in this thing, I guess when you get
a P-D, zoning, you can say that do anything that you, that
he pleases. You know we're, we're the ones that live in
the R-1 area and we're gonna have to live with this thing
after this thing's built, we're gonna live with this
thing. And this thing is not even in harmony with any of
the rest of the that area around here. If if I look up and
down mission, Mission seems to be a place where City of
Rosemead wants to experiment with all kinds of different
zone, zoning requirements. I can not believe the kind of
difference out there and City of Rosemead seems to want to
experiment with on that street. I think, I think, we have
four years ago you gave us gentleman a very nice option to
put 13 houses on there and it will work out very well he
completely, he completely backed out on that on that deal.
Completely backed out, on that deal. This thing is, this
existing thing is there is no harmony with the rest of the
area around there. I have I have I'm the only one that
always that speaks of opposition with this kind of thing
and I don't know why but because it irritates me, I'd like
to see things in some kind of consistency. I have here
gathered about 22 signatures for people that are in
opposition to this project. And if I may, I would like to
present this recognizance of this petitions to you at least
there are 22 signatures from people that got the letter
were sent out in opposition to that. I don't they're just
in opposition mainly to the density of this particular
development. And I think that serious consideration ought
to be given. The last time we was here it was mentioned
that what we're doing was a compromise. And I think the
Planning commission gave him a very good compromise. Now
he's coming back, now he's coming back and wants a
different deal. I think we're getting the bad end of this
thing. The existing home owners are getting the bad end of
this thing. I'm sure that I can understand this gentleman
was even pleading and pleading. Last 4 years ago he
pleaded and we allow him to do this kind of thing. Now
he's pleading again. Gentlemen, I would recommend that you
that you reject this project.
LOWREY: Thank you Mr. Rauth. Anybody also wants to speak in
opposition to this project? Anybody wish to speak in
opposition?
NUNEZ: Juan Nunez, N-u-n-e-z, 2702 Del Mar. Yes, I would like to
ask the same thing that this gentleman was speaking that in
1990 he was given a, an approval for 13 homes now he has
come back and added another 6 more. I believe and Gary
here ah I think, it's about 4 years that the down
zones of the property was it, Gary? (Meaning Mr. Chicots).
CHICOTS: About 3 - 4 years.
NUNEZ: The down zones of properties came out and to upkeep the low
density in the area and this doesn't seem like it'll make
any low density, if I understand it right. Another thing
that I find as for the floor area ratios on this properties
• •
PC Minutes 6-20-94
page 6.
does that conform
that are supposed
a P-D may have
But what are the,
apply for a P
requirement.
to the floor area ratio of the properties
to, I know that he's working on a P-D and
a lot of leeways compared to an R-1 zone.
what are the consequences of, can anybody
-D? I know it had to have certain
LYONS: If I may answer a couple of your questions. About 2 1/2
years ago, we established the floor area ratio for the R-1
and R-2 properties, that was 45% of the lot area not
including the garage. If you have a calculator and
calculate what a typical lot would be times 45%, the
typical lot is 5,000 - 6,000 sq. feet half of that is 2,500
or 2,000 sq. feet. But as I stated, this project is not
R-1, nor R-2; it has historically been zoned R-3 and to
require the floor area ratio on this project is not really
appropriate unless we consider this property at a lower
density zoning which currently it's not.
NUNEZ: Excuse me, I believe that that's what zoning this down
zoned R-3 down zoned density purpose. And if you go
through that then we all have to change the whole thing and
throw the thing the out of, out of the book.
LYONS: If I may, chairman, I want to keep this as specific as
possible, the F. A. R. was amended for R-1, R-2. The code
specifically requires a floor area ratio in the R-1, R-2
properties but not in R-3, not in commercial zones, not in
industrial zones.
LOWREY: Thank you Mr. Lyons, any other questions?
NUNEZ: Another question, why was this property not down zoned?
PRICE: I don't think it's appropriate to go into that, but the
point is we don't have the information in front of us at
this point and I don't think it's appropriate what we go
into it.
NUNEZ: Well, I wanna ask questions and I would like for you to get
the information for our next meeting that we have here or
when we come before the Council. Because I don't see
PRICE: It doesn't really matter, because we can't go, there's no
application to change this zoning to a lower density,
that's not before the Commission at this point, we only
have an application to change it to P-D. So it doesn't
really matter what other arguments can you make before us.
NUNEZ: A variance doesn't come into play on this?
PRICE: No.
NUNEZ: Okey. Also, what, isn't there a set footage, front footage
for properties from the street?
LYONS: Frontage, not footage. Frontage, yeah, there's a required
frontage of 50 feet on a public street. Now, remember
again, that this is not a standard subdivision. And if I
could, Chairman, I just want to show a couple of things
here, and that maybe will show why this property is not one
of the many R-1 and R-2 properties in the City. I brought
this map out here so you can see well. This is the entire
City of Rosemead, the yellow and the brown here, which
makes up the lion share of the City is the R-1 and R-2
properties. These properties are what we've been talking
PC Minutes 6-20-94
page 8.
NUNEZ: Okey, is t
not opening
people that
side of my
that person
one he owns?
ze Commission
a gate or
a this is my
house here an,
got injured
a, when a zero zoned lot, are you
a door for a lawsuit against the
property and I have to work on my
3 I'm gonna go or there will be or
on that property opposite of the
LOWREY: Sir, I'll have for that the Director or the City Attorney.
PRICE: The City would not be responsible for....a any lawsuits we
have between one neighbor and another. All the city is
requiring is an access to maintain his or her own property
but if there is any problem between the neighbors that's
the fault, that's the responsibility of the neighbor's and
not the City.
NUNEZ: No, but then the Commission here or the City's creating the
problem, because you know they can get out create a problem
before it starts, this watch are the developing in that
form, then you're opening a door....
PRICE: No, we have other lots of experience with condominiums.
Many, many types of property have easements of this sort
and they have not caused the City any problem or any City
any problems as far as I'm aware of.
NUNEZ: No, I wasn't thinking of the City, I was thinking of the
owner, the owner of the property. I wasn't really thinking
of the City.
LOWREY: Mr. Nunez, first of all, their C.C. & R.'s are going with
this project if it's approved. It'll go with this.
NUNEZ: Those C.C. & R.'s sometimes a buyer doesn't know about the
C.C. & R.'s, this is the type of a home, I am going to buy
the home and I make X amount of dollars payment and that's
all I know until the buyer
PRICE: Before the buyer buys, the buyer will have to sign the C.C.
& R.'s.
NUNEZ: I know, but when you're signed there, the ground develops
that's when you start finding out, why did I signed? I
mean, the ordinary person doesn't, you and I may know now,
when I bought my house I knew nothing about C.C. & R.
PRICE: I understand, people don't read what they sign. I know
this is true but this is also the case in condominiums and
other key plan developments, I mean, people do get along•in
this situation since we've got some condo projects all over
southern California, people do get along in signing C.C. &
R.'s sooner or later and you have to read them and you do
get along. So it's not the problem.
NUNEZ: And maybe it's when before signing it they try to sell it
and get out of it.
LOWREY: Thank you Mr. Nunez. Anybody else wish to speak in
opposition to this project? This time, we'll give Mr.
Cheng the
LEUNG: Good evening, Mr. Chairman, members of the Planning
Commission, my name is Dolly Leung, I reside at 9554 Ralph
Street in Rosemead. I'm speaking as a concerned resident
and also a property owner on mission Drive. We have
projects that was affected by the down zoning of property
in 1989. But I also take this opportunity to thank the
staff and this Commission to approve our project in 1993
n
u
PC Minutes 6-23-94
page 9.
0
which I'm happy to announce that the construction is
already on the way, thank you. I'm speaking before you
today is that, we have read about and heard about the
staff's concerns whether the intent for the P-D and the
single lot line development and the municipal code for
subdivision had been met. And we like this Planning
Commission to take in consideration of all these neighbors
that has petitioned to work before you that has been
developed as R-1 standard on the north side, on the west
side and south side and few blocks on the east side and
since this developers, engineer and architect came before
the City Council in 1990 four years ago to ask what they
want and they got it. With a lot size of 4,500 sq. foot
according to the minutes or staff report of three Planning
Commission, Mr. Ortiz, Mrs. Clark, I believe, Commissioner
Breen, everybody brought up the F.A.R. ratio of 50%. Of
the 4,500 sq. foot lot, I believe, the dwelling units is
2,250. Right now, the lot size went down to 2,590 and the
dwelling unit is 2,075. So the F.A.R. ratio went up to 80%
just because they are three, I think, there are still
requirement to be met. Just because they want to be
changed to P-D zone are there loop holes in the P-D zones
that this Planning Commission should be brought up before
the City Council or you want this before the we studied
around the all R-1 property to suffer whatever those
parking, no off-site parking there. Across the street,
directly across the street from this project on the
southside of Mission is a church, I believe, this whole
fronting develop something like that. And one of the
neighbors said there was always parking in that church
facility so I do not know how the Planning Commission and
the Planning Director how they agreed those parking
problem. I do not live there, but if the developers citing
the economical reason for this request, I like this
Planning commission to take into consideration of all those
homes that this Commission had down zoned in 1989 from
Willard Avenue, to Delta and Rubio Wash. Those family who
has two unit, three unit, eight units and plenty units has
become legal non conforming. They can not sell as R-3
because they were down zoned from R-3 into R-1 and they can
not be financed and they can not even have problem to have
insurance because if it is burned down they can not
replace. And these are just one block away from this
project. So this take into consideration of these owners
that are before you and also all the parking problems that
may arise out of these eight, nineteen homes waiting to
what is already established there.
LOWREY: Thank you, Ms. Leong. Anybody else wish to speak in
opposition to this project?
(Ms. Carol Chen was sworn in by the secretary.)
CHEN: I am Carol Chen, I am a thirty year resident of Rosemead.
PRICE: Give your address, please.
CHEN: I am going to give you that. I reside at 4549 N. Muscatel
and I also owned property on 4602 N. Muscatel on the corner
of Muscatel and Bartlett. I am very concerned about the
way this proposal is going. Because I live on a private
drive and I know that the parking is very, very limited on
that drive. And I would fear that an overflow of parking
for the proposed construction will overflow onto Mission
Drive because, I think, the gentleman must be aware this
will not always be just one family dwelling say maybe
purchases of one family dwelling but you'll end up with
PC Minutes 6-20-94
page 10.
five or six cars there. They're going to be parking on
Mission Drive or maybe around on Muscatel because that's
the experience we have had. Even on the private driveway
we have, there is parking on there which the parking
commission has said is hazardous and the residents
themselves are allowing that parking to take place. And
there are some residents who keep on parking but there
doesn't seem to be very much follow through on it and so I
would be concerned about the parking that might occur on
Mission being that that is an area of heavy traffic these
days. And I hope that you will reconsider and ask them or
plead with them to reduce the number of homes that would be
adequate parking. I am concerned about that. I realize
that perhaps some improvement needs to be made but I think
that the long time residents here should have some
consideration too or consideration should be shown because
we have lived here this long because we enjoy living in
Rosemead and we would hope that the property would improve
and that the value of our existing properties would not be
diminished. Thank you very much.
LOWREY: Thank you Ms. Chen for coming forward to the Commission.
Anybody else wish to speak in opposition? Sir?
RIVERA: My name is Jesus R. Rivera, I came in late and I raised my
hand when the lady was being sworn in, if you want to
accept that, but that my property is 8402 Mission Drive.
This property I've had with the intention of having it
rented and I've had it over ten years now. And I've got
enough room there where I can make two more. Well, I have
around 2,500 sq. feet and I figure I could go two stories
and then the rules are changed. I had R-3 I was changed to
R-1. Now I can not increase my rental yet I have all
street parking. I have 3 units right now without street
parking, two garages, three garages, and the rules are
changed for me so I am penalize now. I can not increase my
rental capacity. Now people down the street if you have
money or able to pursuade the Council here to accept these
changes, then, they can do it. But I can not and I can not
afford to hire a lawyer and come down to fight for me. So
I don't think that was fair that the rules are changed and
I am right on Mission Drive so why couldn't it have been
left R-3 on Mission Drive? Now the units, the units that
we're talking about down here had already exceeded. He's
got thirteen units, now he wants nineteen. Yet, I can't
have over three, I think, that's unfair.
LOWREY: Mr. Lyons, can he come in for a variance?
LYONS: I'll have to look exactly where his lot is, and if it was
down zoned. You can get a variance to set back
requirements etcera but not the density, not the zoning, so
he's left with R-1 standards on his property and his
property was down zoned quite a bit.
RIVERA: I'm on Delta and Mission Drive, right on the corner facing
the Christian Home. Yet, you know, I can not build
anything.
LYONS: If I may again Mr. Chairman, his option would be to apply
to change his zone back to whatever originally was. That's
his option although you'd have to get other property owners
within the area to go along with him.
LOWREY: Mr. Rivera, why don't you come in one day? Please come in
one day and talk to staff you don't have any experience or
anything. Staff will be most happy to help you in anyway
where they can talk to you and advise you.
• •
PC Minutes 6-20-94
page 11.
LYONS: Sir, if you want to come in tomorrow morning, I'd be glad
to talk to you.
RUIZ: Mr. Chairman.
LOWREY: Commissioner Ruiz.
RUIZ: I'd just like to make a statement, your name is Rivera?
RIVERA: Rivera.
RUIZ: Thank you, I sort of like to take exception to the fact
that the statement to the effect that you made that "people
who have more money than anyone else has preference so
cheap" so I just want to make that statement I don't think
that's true.
LYONS: If I may Chairman, if you want to give me a call, it's
Peter Lyons, tomorrow morning I'd be glad to talk with you
about your options on the property. I have to be honest in
that my impression is you don't have very many options on
your property. You've been down zoned recently by the City
in that area and it would be very difficult to go back and
up zone it again.
RIVERA: You know, this is what, but my intent was I'knew that I had
this area when I bought this property and I wanted to put
two more units on it without destroying the house that I
had there. You know, other, I've had calls where they
wanted to buy my property to tear everything down and
build, I don't know, how many it's going to be a big units
like nineteen, twenty, twenty rentals on a two story
building. But I wouldn't sell 'cause I didn't want them I
wanted the property for myself, but I wanted to improve it
the way I wanted it.
LOWREY: Thank you very much. Anybody else who wish to speak in
opposition?
NUNEZ: Mr. Chairman. Nunez, 2702 Del Mar. I would just like to
ask what is the load on the sewer gonna affect with this
kind type of a and the water and all that a.
LYONS: If I may Chairman. That's a very good question, Juan.
With all subdivisions of this type, it's a very long
process we go through, you submit plans, we go back and
forth between the applicant and the staff here, once we
come up with a somewhat of a plan that, you know, either
the developer wants to process or we would consider, we
then send out service provider letters to all the service
providers from the Sherifff's department, the school
deparment, the water department, the electrical department,
the sewage district, every utility agency that would have
anything to do with this property. And we allow those
utilities, those providers of service to this property to
comment. We allow them 21 days to comment. We send them
plans, drawings, square footages, we allow them 21 days to
comment to either say they can not provide service to this
property or that they can. There's about 19 service
providers for this project. All 19 service providers had
said they can support this project through either water,
sewer, electrical, schools, parks, sheriff's dept., etc.
LOWREY: Fire hydrants, fire flows.
LYONS: 19 separate agencies get involve.
PC Minutes 6-20-94
page 12.
NUNEZ: I supposed that as you mention about the parks department
getting so much and so forth, the schools, I would believe
that some of these plans should take into consideration
putting some money into the sewer system also. Because
you're gonna have the same problem as they had in Monterey
Park. Montery Park last year, you know, when they start
building the Monterey Park, and I still work for Monterey
Park and I used to see some of those people who used to
come into there and check from the county. Check the flow
on the sewers, and they say it's getting high, it's getting
high, they'll check on the metal there, they would take
reading there. If I would talk to them, they say, just
last year, I believe it was, I think it was when they put a
big line through Garvey and you probably know about it.
Which Willdan doesn't work for Monterey Park so you
probably know about it. They put about, must have been,
16" lines that they put into there, and so who pays for
that? The rest of the City pays for that, see, we all will
be paying for that.
LYONS: If I may, Chairman. Juan, I think you're sort of mixing
apples with oranges. If I may, the developer pays for any
type of impact on to the system. Same goes with the sewer
line. So any impact the developer will have to pay. But
generally, the system is designed so that the developers
will have to pay for any type of impacts on to the
utilities.
NUNEZ: I'm not trying to stop people from developing their
properties but what I'm trying to say is that they should
develop to a lower density where there was mainly the thing
then they came out about 3 years ago and also the thing
that sometimes they do mention they take readings, north
readings sometimes they sometimes may under-estimate and
look at the state, the state had about 33 or 300 billion
dollars or somebody came up with that, but that's another
story.
LOWREY: Thank you, Juan.
NUNEZ: Thank you.
LOWREY: Anybody else? If not, not seeing any, the opponent has a
chance to rebuttal.
CHENG: Yeah, our lot is multi family zoning and if we decide to
build apartments we probably get a lot more units. I'm not
saying that we won't do that, because that's not what my
client want to do. The thing is we want to do something
real nice and that will, you know, that can sell. If we
build' some units probably some units will not have open
space and with no yard, or not enough yard and the children
who lives in those apartment well we have to grant them to
the family with children, anyway, because it's the law.
And these children will have no absolutely no space, no
place to go, this way, we still have ten feet on the side,
ten feet actually a sizable lot. A lot of house I've seen
in out of town the frontage the width of the lot is only 25
feet, I think Peter know, Gary will agree with me. They
are cities in these Los Angeles County that their frontage
is only 25 feet. If we put too much restriction on the
property, actually everybody will suffer, everybody will
pay for it. When I was listening to the people who opposed
the project, actually, there are two ways, two directions
right there. One group is, we are long time resident here
we have the right. I agree with that lady 100%. But you
look at the other group, the other gentleman say why I
PC Minutes 6-20-94
page 13.
bought the property I want to develop it it's R-3 I can
build apartment, even Dolly came up again and say there are
people who suffer from that because they down zoned them.
I agree also. But the thing is, right next door to our lot
is a big apartment. Right now, there're about 5, 6 units
on the lot even though they are not huge apartment, but
they are attached unit. You can even actually call this
apartment on the lot right now. It is R-3, so we are doing
the best we can. I don't want to say okey I turn around
and propose some apartment we're not gonna do that. We
want to work with the City, we want to work with the
neighbor, we want them to understand we want to do a good
job. But time has changed. Time has changed. And we need
your understanding. We could have changed the name of the
applicant, instead of Bill Lau, may be Lawrence whose
apartment and then apply. But the thing is, we don't want
to go through this kind of mickey mouse thing we want to be
honest with you. We can not afford to build it, we can not
afford to build it. We don't want to change to another guy
maybe have somebody else come up here and say well I don't
know nothing about 13 unit, now we're proposing 19. We, we
can not build 13, because you will not can survive. And we
pay the money all over and we draw the plan all over. And
we need your help and understanding. And I hope the
neighbor will understand we are not here to try to irritate
them, in fact, they should be home watching football,
watching TV. But the thing is, we are here because we need
we want to develop the lot just as much as they'd want to
see it done. Take a look of what's out there. The lot is
a mess. If you go to the end of the lot, there's no lawn,
no paving whatsoever the car's driving all over when it
turn around, you know. It's all dirt. And every time it
turns me that turns the dust is all over, is that what
Rosemead is supposed to be? I doubt it. But what, you get
to give some incentive to the developer, otherwise, why
should they develop? Those houses, those standard houses
this lady live in were developed by some developers thirty,
forty years ago. At that time, they went through the same
problem because the farmer at that time say well what
happened to my horses? It's too crowded. Time is changing
and I hope everybody understands. We are here to ask for
your understanding. Thank you.
LOWREY: Thank you, Mr. Cheng. With that, we'll close the public
hearing. Discussion by the Commission.
BREEN: Mr. Chairman.
LOWRY: Commissioner Breen.
BREEN: The major attraction to the zone change back to P-D where
it was of 1990 P-D 93-198 which was retro in 1990. We're
fortunate enough not to be burdened with the slings and
arrows of Monterey Park and the City of Los Angeles. We
have our own density limits and density problems, we do
believe, this would be a good P-D zone, however, 19 units
is just too much, this is a 76 bedrooms, you know, one and
a half acre is going to overload everything. I would like
to make a motion to deny Tract 51727. Thank you.
ORTIZ: Mr. Chairman.
LOWREY Commissioner Ortiz.
ORTIZ: I know there's a motion, but I have a lot of concerns. And
in the likely, it might be in my operation regards to this
project, I feel they're not consistent with the general
planning in that area. We have only two problems there
with the recess dwellings with the driveway and the house
•
PC Minutes 6-20-94
page 14.
•
appropriate and also this is way overbuilt on regards to
the zero zoning on Landis and just north of the freeway
there it's completely different, it does not even compared
to it all, not even an iota, with the mitigation,
litigation designed to the zoning, zero zone, in fact in
regards to the liability of acres, even though with regards
to the easement. And an easement, the property owner, he
would build some type of a patio, some type of an entrance
to which to build up their property and usage in
utilization to and also their impact any type of emergency
vehicle to go in there. There's so many things on it that
certainly there should be some covenants there that if
somebody approves it, I am not starting to say, you know,
it's just way overbuilding, it's just way too much. It's
just part of my concern. The acres and acreage in there,
we indicated that the easement is not suitable and the
parking corporate parking pad don't even meet the standard
part of that and then also the cement area, it's dense
there, impact of any type of vehicle on one side they'll be
dead and five dwelling unit in itself it only has
basically free access to the fire hydrant dwelling it would
be a two frontage to the house, they'll not be able to go
out at all. It's a, it reduces, you know, I don't know
where you got the zero zoning concept but I feel it's not
appropriate and with this particular area we have already
built consistence on our general plan regards to two other
project there on Mission not even a block away it don't
even meet one iota and also with regards to the one at
Landis, it don't meet this concept at all. Zero zone I
don't see anything else regards to the traffic study,
there's no traffic study for the increase of 76 bedrooms in
this here, that's 76 parking spots, we don't have, we have
only 36 something like that. We simply have 3 parking
spots, yes parking for 19 homes in the whole facility
there. I can't, I can't see where, where are the 3 parking
spots. I couldn't find this. It's not enough at all and
basically these people do not use their garage when they're
used to, they use the outside, they park on the street,
they park outside the garage, they use it for their private
storage. We need to have a cement pad there with a recess
on driveway, and also a house to recess a standard 20 ft.
away from that private road. Even if it's a private road
where people do park on their properties and also 5 foot
sideyard on both of their side. There's nothing there to
say it's well legal, legal on floor area ratio. There's a
lot more to this and basically, you know, this certain
project we have developed don't meet the general plan of
single family in regards to the recess the studies in
regards to the lawn in front, the play yard for the kids,
there's nothing there in regards to it. These are all 4
bedroom houses, we're lucky now a lot of parking, lot of
people dense and 10 years or 18 years, when people buy it,
there'll be a lot of vehicles in 18 years from now. It'll
be a mess, any type of impact would be incredible. I do
not, I do not like it all, but what I like to do at this
time is to put a covenance on it if we're going to it and
the permission if, Mr. Chairman, if this thing gets
approved somewhere, I certainly will ask a recap a sheet of
problems on Landiss where they built patios to be
restricted to 4 ft. only to have 6 ft. variance free and
clear, free and clear to the adjacent wall and I'd like to
make that as a motion to the covenant as a condition. A
covenant to not to have an awning on patio on their prior
property not to exceed 4 ft. on the wall.
LYONS: If I may, Chairman.
ORTIZ: Because I see so many problems on that, I went to Landis,
to this property, and this won't get me one bit at all to
that concept at all.
PC Minutes 6-20-94
page 15.
LYONS: If I may, condition #21 in the C.C.& R.'s states this
already. So any modification to the floor plan will have
to come back to you.
ORTIZ: The reason that I say that is I see other obstacles in the
building of the Landis that they do have a recess driveways
for the parks on their property and also 19 blockwalls
instead of secure structures where there's no access in any
one in the area. They need to make arrangement to get on
to the property, if there's emergency that property's
sealed.
LYONS: I don't know if I really follow you.
ORTIZ: Regarding to a saying that on a good quiet area there, side
yard there, okey, they're building structured fence no
access to their property at all. So they're building there
and want to get in there and do some work on their property
they're unable to at times, because there is structure,
permits structure.
LYONS: Well, if the easements are like any easements, they have
specific characteristics and conditions, that is, that
house should be available, you know, access to that portion
of the house should be available to the owner whenever he
or she wants to and access can not be prohibited. It's no
different than any other access easement in that the
property owner who has the easement has to adhere to it.
PRICE: They can't block it, they can't legally block the easement,
if you grant somebody an easement, you cannot block their
access.
ORTIZ: Well, I don't know the conditions in C.C.& R.'s in
particular private, well I see what can happen and what
will happen here and I really don't a, there's a lot of
problems here, I think that if the property does needs to
be developed, I think, they should go back and take a look
at it and make assessment with regards to the frontage and
get some play yard in there, in regards to the facets of
the houses, and get some parking. Because basically, the
families now they have 3 to 4 cars the minimum, and there
are some dwellings that have 6 cars to make special pass to
park out street and this doesn't allow for 2 cars extra
cars to be parking across it. So basically, in 16 years,
when those kids are going to school to college, I mean,
it's going to be a tremendous impact on that mission. And
also the consistencies, there's no consistency in regards
to the general plan that we had 2 other projects similar
just right adjacent down the street, just east of it and
they had the recess parking with special door roll ups,
swing up, so this way you can have a 20 ft. setback from
the property line. I'd like to see something like that be
developed, but this I really cannot vote for. There's so
many problems I feel that I see the whole scenery very nice
and all that, but aesthetically on one side, it's just
plain wall there's not architectural facade to say that
it's a beautiful home. You know, it's supposed to be a
private home but the facade inside is just one straight
wall there's nothing on it. I think there's one with
the in it one but that's in the garage area
for and that could be converted
into bedroom real easy, and I don't like that at all
either. So with that, I second the motion of Mr. Breen in
regards to deny over this but I certainly would like.
LOWREY: Is that second the maker, or the motion. Is that Tentative
Tract Map 51727 and the Zone Change going to deny?
PC Minutes 6-20-94
page 16.
C
BREEN: Not the Zone Change, just the Tentative Tract Map 51727,
motion to deny.
PRICE: I think it would be preferable to cover both things, as the
two are really, really together. They should be dealt
together and not separate.
CHENG: I understand that, but I do have a request.
LOWREY: You can bring that up later. We can't discuss now, the
public hearing is already closed.
PRICE: Before we go further, we made a motion to deny parts of it.
BREEN: Definitely, we made the motion to deny vote Tentative Tract
Map 51727 and Zone Change 93-198.
LOWREY: And is that second too?
ORTIZ: Yes, also Mr. Chairman, I certainly have some concern for
this and I'd also like this verbatim.
LYONS: We'll do our best, Chairman.
LOWREY: Before we vote,
Rather than turn
and come back, a
perhaps address
than cancel the
back again just
that.
I'd like to bring one thing up here.
this down, I'd like to see him continue it
nd eliminate that unit #18 and #19 and then
the driveway and the yard issues rather
whole thing out and then have them come
continue it the Commission will consider
PRICE: Well, that's a perfectly valid request if you want to
continue it though.
RUIZ: Mr. Chairman.
LOWREY: Commissioner Ruiz.
RUIZ: I have the same concerns that my co-commissioners have
about the project. And of course, there's a lot of
concerns from the audience citizens, but looking at the
project, I think, it's a good project but it needs to be
modified a little bit. I think, that Mr. Cheng mentioned
that he cannot live with 13 units, but he never mentioned
17 units and I think that what we're requesting here is a
little modification on the plan, possibly eliminating the
18 and 19 accepted that. And going with 17, I would start
a, would like to see this project go ahead but as Mr.
Chairman Lowrey mentioned I'd like to see it continue give
her one opportunity to come back with a different plan or
maybe some suggestions I don't want to see it turn down
that so many properties are developed afterall, it should
be good for the community.
LOWREY: There's just too much, it's just too tight a space in
there. Maybe 17 houses, I bet you 3 or 4 of those houses
are gonna have boats, trailers, or some campers, or
something inside the parking there. They're just too
tight.
LOI: I support staff's recommendation to eliminate 2 units since
2 units are eliminated, there will be more space for
parking and playing. These lots of disputes, concerns
about parking easements, Mr. Lyons just explained that with
easements there have been no complaints so far received.
Is that correct?
LYONS: That's correct.
PC Minutes 6-20-94
page 18.
BREEN: Yes, Mr. Chairman. As respects, I just did not want to be
inferred that we have automatically have 17 units on that
property, but these properties definitely overdo by this
proposed program tonight. It will be nice to see space
between the building. It will be nice to all of us. I
have no objection to withdrawing my motion if a continuance
can be granted to allow something other than what we have
here tonight. All we have tonight definitely same reasons
that Commissioner Ortiz stated.
LOWREY: Are you withdrawing your motion now, Mr. Breen?
BREEN: On that basis, I will withdraw my motion.
LOWREY: A request for continuance. Anybody else has any objection
for continuance of this item? Both for Tentative Map and
the Zone Change. When can we do that, Mr. Lyons?
LYONS: If I may, Mr. Chairman, I'd prefer second meeting in July.
Our first meeting is July 5th, and the next one is, would
be Monday, July 18th. That's a good point, we could even
make it even later although, I think, that's sufficient
time. July 18th would be fine.
LOWREY: All right, if commission has no objection, we'll continue
this to July 18th.
ORTIZ: Mr. Chairman.
LOWREY: Commissioner Ortiz.
ORTIZ: I'd like to further convey to the applicant in regards to
to what I'm looking for, in regards to when it comes back
to setback in the front, 5 ft. setback. I want to see the
zero lot line on it. I want to see some landscaping on the
front, adequate setbacks, nice units, nice walls with the
yard frontage and rear yard and maintain that 34 foot
street. Go take a look at the Landis development over
there, it don't meet it all. There's 2 other developments
that we have approved, beautiful units right down Mission
Drive and beautiful units, nice concepts, I'd like to see
it come back and the reason for my comments in regards to 5
ft. side yard and the setback standard more parking for the
vehicle. We're looking at 16 years from now, we're gonna
have kids and they're gonna have their own vehicles. And
you're looking at 76 parking spaces, a minimum.
LOWREY: I'd also like to have the developer consider roll up doors
for the garages.
LYONS: I got that down.
LOWREY: With that, if there's no objection, we will continue this
to July 18th meeting. Moving right along.
NUNEZ: Mr. Chairman. For expediency, you are continuing, but the
configuration assignments in before the yard space and all
that, I hope, that all that is taken into consideration.
And I know that you are concerned with parking space and 5
ft. setback, I believe, you mentioned.
LOWREY: The public hearing is closed, we can't take anymore
consideration on this. If you want to wait till right
after the meeting and bring something else to talk about
that etc. at that time, we'll be very willing.
NUNEZ: Thank you.
• a
PC Minutes 6-20-94
page 19.
LYONS: If you want Juan I'll be right with you.
NUNEZ: But, I'd like to know what to bring back if you bring
something out then we will oppose, you know.
(END OF VERBATIM DIALOGUE)
OTHER BUSINESS
7. MODIFICATION OF PARCEL MAP 22260 - 7534 Columbia Street -
Request from Richard A. Stupin to modify the size of the
dwellings from their original design to construct two (2)
single family dwellings.
Mr. Chicots presented the staff memo with the recommendation to
approve subject to the 25 foot setback for the front house.
Discussion by the Commission:
Commissioner Ruiz wanted to know what type of garage doors will
be used, either a roll up or regular doors with hinges up.
Applicant replied that he may use either one. It would be a
sectional garage door, a roll up.
(MO) It was moved by Commissioner Breen, seconded by Commissioner
Loi to approve Modification of Parcel Map 22260, subject to
conditions of approval. Vote resulted:
Yes: Loi, Ruiz, Lowrey, Breen, Ortiz
No: None
Abstain: None
Absent: None
8. PC RESOLUTION 94-14 - A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION
OF THE CITY OF ROSEMEAD GRANTING CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT 94-612
ALLOWING THE ON-SITE SALE OF BEER AND WINE IN CONJUNCTION WITH
AN EXISTING RESTAURANT AT CASA ORTEGA LOCATED AT 8742 GARVEY
AVENUE.
Mr. Price presented the resolutions by title only.
(MO) It was moved by commissioner Ortiz, seconded by Commission
Breen to waive further reading and adopt. Vote resulted:
Yes: Loi, Ruiz, Lowrey, Breen, Ortiz
No: None
Abstain: None
Absent: None
9. ORAL COMMUNICATION FROM THE AUDIENCE - On any matter
The Chairman asked Mr. Nunez if he wanted to discuss any item
from the Commission. Mr. Nunez replied that all he wanted was
when the item does comeback for continuance, that it will come
back for more yard area space, parking, setbacks, and
easements. That he wanted everyone to know that he will be
attending the July 18th meeting.
Mr. Lyons continued that he'll be more than glad to set up a
date with Mr. Nunez and the applicant. Mr. Nunez responded
that he and the rest of the opposition group are the ones
concerned.
10. MATTERS FROM CITY OFFICIALS AND STAFF
A. Mr. Lyons reminded Commission about the paid reservations
for West San Gabriel Valley Planning Commission luncheon
for Wednesday, June 22, 1994.
•
PC Minutes 6-20-94
page 20.
i
B. Commissioner Ortiz had some concern on Cafe Binh Minh
located at Hellman and Walnut Grove. He instructed staff
to go and investigate and remind the owner of the place
about the noise coming from the Karaoke.
Mr. Lyons responded that staff will investigate
Commissioner Ortiz's concern and reprimand the owner to
tone down the music based on noise ordinance.
C. Chairman Lowrey informed everybody about his pingpong
lessons with Mr. Michael Burbank as his instructor. We
also found out that Commissioner Duc Loi was a pro on this
table tennis game. Commissioner Loi continued that a table
tennis club could be formed in Rosemead specially at the
senior center.
There being no further business before the Commission, the meeting
was adjourned at 9:00 p.m. The next meeting will take place on July
5, 1994, at 7:00 p.m.
i',
CITY OF ROSEMEAD
8838 VALLEY BOULEVARD
ROSEMEAD, CALIFORNIA
PLANNING COMMISSION
REGULAR MEETING
June 6, 1994
MINUTES
1. CALL TO ORDER - The regular meeting of the Planning Commission
of the City of Rosemead was called to order by Chairman Lowrey
at 7:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers of the Rosemead City Hall,
8838 E. Valley Boulevard, Rosemead.
The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Commissioner Ortiz.
The Invocation was delivered by Commissioner Ruiz.
2. ADMINISTRATION OF OATH FOR COMMISSIONER LOI
Chairman Lowrey announced that Duc Loi had been appointed by
City Council to fill the vacancy on the Planning Commission.
The Secretary of the Commission administered the oath of office
to Duc Loi and the Chairman and Commissioners welcomed Mr. Loi
to the Commission.
3. ROLL CALL - Present: Loi, Ruiz, Lowrey, Breen, Ortiz
Absent: None
Ex Officio: Wagner, Price, Lyons,
Troyer, Pickett
4. APPROVAL OF MINUTES - Regular meeting of May 16, 1994
Commissioner Ortiz requested that Page 2 of the May 16th
Minutes pertaining to Tentative Parcel Map 23902 a Flag Lot
subdivision should read as corrected that there was a swimming
pool at the back of the property.
Mr. Lyons thanked Commissioner Ortiz's observation of this
particular item. It will be documented on the map that the
pool should be removed and that a soil compaction must be
submitted prior to the recordation of the map.
(MO) It was moved by Commissioner Ortiz, seconded by Commissioner
Ruiz, to approve the minutes of the regular meeting of May 16,
1994, be approved as amended. Vote resulted:
Yes: Ruiz, Lowrey, Breen, Ortiz
No: None
Abstain: Loi
Absent: None
Commissioner Loi abstained in voting as he was not in
attendance during the May 16th meeting.
5. EXPLANATION OF HEARING PROCEDURES AND APPEAL RIGHTS - City
Attorney Stanton Price explained the public hearing process and
the right to appeal decisions of the Planning Commission to the
City Council.
6. ADMINISTRATION OF OATH - The secretary administered the oath to
members of the audience wishing to speak.
PUBLIC HEARINGS
7. CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT 94-612 - Request from Jose Ortega for a
Conditional Use Permit for the on-site sale of beer and wine in
conjunction with an existing restaurant located at 8742 Garvey
Avenue dba Casa Ortega.
PC Minutes 6-6-94
page 2.
Mr. Lyons presented the staff report with the recommendation to
approve for one (1) year, subject to conditions outlined on
Exhibit A.
The Chairman opened the public hearing.
Addressing the Commission in favor of the proposed project was:
Norma L. Ortega, 17429 E. Boulay Street, La Puente. Ms. Ortega
is the daughter and representative of the applicant. She
stated that they have complied with all the requirements of the
City and they have worked with staff regarding their petition.
She felt that approval of the project will not be detrimental
to the health, safety, peace, morals, comfort or general
welfare of the residents of the neighborhood and, therefore,
will not be detrimental or injurious to the property or
improvements of the City. She thanked the Commission for the
opportunity of being heard and for any questions or concerns,
she was there to answer them.
Commissioner Ruiz asked Ms. Ortega as to what type of time
frame for the improvements are we looking at after it's been
approved.
Ms. Ortega replied that as per the property owner, it will be
as soon as possible but he did not give her any specific time
frame.
Commissioner Ruiz explained further his concerns regarding the
maintenance of the property. He added that the back area
seemed to be messy and needed to be cleaned up. Commissioner
Ruiz asked that these concerns be incorporated as one of the
conditions prior to approval so as to keep transients out of
the area.
Ms. Ortega agreed with Commissioner Ruiz and hoped that the
property owner would be able to do something about this.
Commissioner Ruiz continued that he believes this to be a very
good project and would be beneficial to the community.
Mr. Lyons stated that condition #6 refers to several sections
in our code requiring the property owner to clean and clear up
the back area. He would emphasize to the property owner that
the shed needs to be demolished immediately and sufficient
parking had to be provided.
Commissioner Ortiz asked the applicant if the application was
only for the sale of beer and wine or did it include the
improvements shown on Exhibit "B".
Ms. Ortega replied that she does not have anything to do with
the improvements shown on Exhibit "B".
Mr. Lyons continued that due to insufficient parking for the
business, the applicant will not be allowed to intensify it by
receiving a beer and wine license until the shed is removed and
sufficient parking provided.
Commissioner Ortiz wanted to know when the deadline for
construction was.
Mr. Lyons replied that the property owner has one year and if
after a year no action is taken, the conditional use permit
expires and becomes null and void.
There being no one else wishing to address the commission, the
public hearing was closed.
PC Minutes 6-6-94
page 3.
Discussion by the Commission:
Commissioner Ortiz wanted to know if the property owner was in
attendance as there are pertinent actions that the owner needs
to accomplish within a year. Commissioner Ortiz was also
concerned with the approval of the applicant's permit for beer
and wine license when the property owner might not fulfill his
commitment within a year, Commissioner Ortiz directed this
question to Mr. Lyons.
Mr. Lyons replied that if the property owner does not perform,
his property would be placed on rehab because of unsightly
conditions. But it should be understood, that even though the
property owner may not be the applicant, he already has spent a
lot of money on the project and is now ready to perform.
Commissioner Ortiz inquired about the location of the trash
bin.
Mr. Lyons answered that as per condition #12 (Exhibit B), the
trash bin would be located at the space between the parking lot
and the existing building.
Chairman Lowrey asked if there was an over saturation of beer
and wine licenses in the area.
Mr. Lyons responded that the area used to be over saturated,
but during the last few years, several licenses have expired so
the number of beer and wine establishments has decreased. With
improvements and close supervision, this site should not cause
any problem.
(MO) It was moved by commissioner Ruiz, seconded by Commissioner
Ortiz to approve Conditional Use Permit 94-612 for a period of
one (1) year, subject to conditions 1 through 14. Vote
resulted:
Yes: Loi, Ruiz, Lowrey, Breen, Ortiz
No: None
Abstain: None
Absent: None
OTHER BUSINESS
8. MODIFICATION OF ZONE CHANGE 59 - Request from Carrows
Restaurant to modify the exising restaurant and minor facade
changes for property located at 1021 San Gabriel Boulevard.
Mr. Lyons presented the staff memo with the recommendation to
approve.
(MO) Without discussion, it was moved by Commissioner Ortiz,
seconded by Commissioner Breen, to approve Modification of Zone
Change 59. Vote resulted:
Yes: Loi, Ruiz, Lowrey, Breen, Ortiz
No: None
Abstain: None
Absent: None
9. EXTENSION OF CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT 91-538 - Request from Thanh
Van to continue the operation of a garment manufacturing
business at 8925 Garvey Avenue (Van's Sewing Factory).
Mr. Troyer presented the staff memorandum with the
recommendation to approve the extension request for a period of
two (2) years, subject to the conditions of approval listed in
Exhibit "A".
PC Minutes 6-6-94
page 4.
Commissioner Ruiz was concerned with garment factories stacking
garments in aisleways thus creating a tripping hazard or
obstructing an escape route in the event of a fire or an
emergency.
The applicant was asked to come before the Commission.
Addressing the Commission in favor of the request was the
applicant, Thanh Van, 8925 E. Garvey Avenue, Rosemead. Mr. Van
was asked by the Chairman if he understood the problem. The
applicant replied yes.
Chairman Lowrey instructed staff to get the Fire Department to
inspect the location.
Commissioner Ortiz concurred with Commissioner Ruiz's
observation regarding excessive merchandise in the main aisles
and mentioned the abundance of flammable materials near the
electrical area panels. He recommended the addition of
Condition #10 which stated that all electrical areas need to be
cleared as per Fire Department's requirements.
In reply to Commissioner Ortiz's concern, Mr. Lyons stated that
a specific condition could be created that states all
electrical areas be maintained in a safe manner, and all
aisleways be free and clear of all hazards.
The applicant was agreeable to this condition.
(MO) It was moved by commissioner Ruiz, seconded by Commissioner
Ortiz, to approve extension of Conditional Use Permit 91-538
for a period of two (2) years, subject to amended conditions.
Vote resulted:
Yes: Loi, Lowrey, Breen, Ortiz
No: None
Abstain: None
Absent: None
10. EXTENSION OF CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT 85-324 - Request from Kien
Wa Quan to continue the on-site sale of beer and wine at
9422-24 Valley Boulevard (Honeycomb Tavern).
Mr. Troyer presented the staff
extension for two (2) years,
approval outlined in Exhibit "A".
Discussion by the Commission:
memorandum and recommended
subject to the conditions of
commissioner Ruiz observed that the place was clean and well
kept although he was unable to get inside the premises. His
only comment was the Sheriff's Incidents report in 1993.
Mr. Troyer pointed out that this particular incidence was when
the applicant's wife was apparently robbed in the parking lot
as she was closing up the bar.
The applicant was present to answer any questions or concerns.
(MO) It was moved by Commissioner Ruiz, seconded by Commissioner
Breen, to approve the request for an extension of Conditional
Use Permit 85-324. Vote resulted:
Yes: Loi, Ruiz, Lowrey, Breen, Ortiz
No: None
Abstain: None
Absent: None
PC Minutes 6-6-94
page 5.
11. MODIFICATION OF CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT 93-583 - Request by Lap
Nguyen to modify an existing 3,690 square foot two story single
family dwelling in the R-1 located at 9046 Guess Street.
Mr. Lyons presented the staff memorandum with recommendation of
the removal of the.sink from the garage and direction from the
commission on the other changes to the dwellings.
Commissioner Ruiz stated that he was not opposed to any changes
to the dwellings on the original plan but he wanted an
explanation to the sink in the garage as it was very unusual to
see a sink in the garage other than the garage being converted
into a dwelling unit.
Speaking in favor of the project was Lap Nguyen, 1139 Glenview
Road, West Covina. Mr. Nguyen, speaking on behalf of the owner
Mr. Sim Co, replied that with the garage being detached and
located at the rear of the property, the reason for the sink in
the garage was mainly for convenience of works done at the
garage.
Commissioner Ortiz continued that his main concern was actually
the possible dumping of oil, solvents and the like into the
sink. Not being a necessity, he supported staff's
recommendation for the removal of the sink.
Commissioner Breen recommended denial of the modification of
conditional use permit 93-583 changing the name from a den to
bedroom and adding a sink to a garage.
City Attorney Stan Price suggested re-phrasing it as "approval
of the modification except for".
Commissioner Ortiz offered some comments: 1) the sink and the
three (3) car garage area being in the building; 2) the
plumbing needs to be removed as part of the condition; and 3)
the den being used as a guest bedroom and therefore considered
to be a four (4) bedroom dwelling. Commissioner Ortiz was in
agreement to denial of the sink in the garage and removal of
the drainage as it was not in the original plan. Mr. Lyons
agreed that staff will follow through with this condition.
(MO) It was moved by Commissioner Breen, seconded by Commissioner
Ortiz, to approve modification of Conditional Use Permit
93-583, subject to the amended conditions. Vote resulted:
Yes: Loi, Ruiz, Lowrey, Breen, Ortiz
No: None
Abstain: None
Absent: None
12. PC RESOLUTION 94-12 - A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION
OF THE CITY OF ROSEMEAD GRANTING CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT 94-611
ALLOWING THE OPERATION OF A SEWING FACTORY DBA K & K FASHION
LOCATED AT 8905 E. GARVEY AVENUE, #B3, ROSEMEAD
13. PC RESOLUTION 94-13 - A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION
OF THE CITY OF ROSEMEAD GRANTING CONDITIONAL APPROVAL OF
TENTATIVE PARCEL MAP 23902 FOR PROPERTY LOCATED AT 9504 RALPH
STREET, ROSEMEAD.
Mr. Price presented the resolutions by title only.
(MO) It was moved by Commissioner Breen, seconded by Commissioner
Ruiz to waive further reading and adopt. Vote resulted:
PC Minutes 6-6-94
page 6.
Yes: Loi, Ruiz, Lowrey, Breen, Ortiz
No: None
Abstain: None
Absent: None
14. ORAL COMMUNICATION FROM THE AUDIENCE - On any matter -
There were some student observers at the meeting and they were
informed that the secretary will issue a letter of attendance
once the meeting was over.
15. MATTERS FROM CITY OFFICIALS AND STAFF
A. Mr. Lyons welcomed our new Commissioner and reminded the
Commission about the forthcoming West San Gabriel Valley
Planning Commission luncheon at the Sheraton on June 22,
1994, with our City Engineer being the speaker. Deadline
for reservations would be on the 16th of June. Chairman
Lowrey reminded the Commission and the City Attorney to try
and be in attendance.
B. Commissioner Loi stated that he was just observing the
procedure of tonight's meeting.
C. Commissioner Ruiz reported on the Planning Commissioners'
Dinner at the Arcadia Community Center. He commented that
K & K Fashion at 8905 E. Garvey Avenue, #B3, still continue
to put their trash out.
Mr. Lyons replied that staff monitored this but will go and
and check to ensure applicant adhere to compliance.
D. Commissioner Ortiz wants to know what is being done in
situations where the applicant deters from their original
submitted plans then come back with modifications?
Mr. Lyons replied that when plans go to plan check for
review, there are times when some changes are made. Staff
feels before final approval is given, the Planning
Commission must be notified of the changes in the
conditional use permit. In this particular case, there was
a change in definition of the room and staff felt that the
plan should reflect the changes.
There being no further business before the Commission, the
meeting was adjourned at 8:05 p.m. The next meeting will take
place on June 20, 1994, at 7:00 p.m.