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PC - Minutes 07-17-95CITY OF ROSEMEAD 8838 E. VALLEY BOULEVARD ROSEMEAD, CALIFORNIA PLANNING COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING JULY 17, 1995 REGULAR MEETING CALL TO ORDER - The regular meeting of the Planning Commission of the City of Rosemead was called to order by Chairman Ruiz at 7:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers of the Rosemead City Hall, 8838 E. Valley Boulevard, Rosemead. Pledge of Allegiance - Commissioner Lowrey Invocation - Commissioner Breen ROLL CALL - Present: Commissioners Breen, Loi, Lowrey, Ortiz and Chairman Ruiz Ex Officio: Wagner, Price, Troyer, Holm, Pickett 1. APPROVAL OF MINUTES - Regular meeting of July 3, 1995 (MO) It was moved by Commissioner Lowrey, seconded by Commissioner Ortiz to approve the minutes of July 17, 1995. Vote resulted: YES: LOI, LOWREY, RUIZ, BREEN, ORTIZ NO: NONE ABSENT: NONE ABSTAIN: NONE 2. 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. 3. ADMINISTRATION OF OATH - The Commission Secretary administered the oath to members of the audience wishing to speak. 4. PUBLIC HEARINGS A. PLANNED DEVELOPMENT 95-01 - 7503-7527 Hellman - Request from Chi-An Wang to redesignate property in order to allow development of an 11-unit single family residential planned development. The project includes General Plan Amendment 95- 01, Zone Change 95-199 and Tentative Tract Map 52002. Mr. Holm presented the staff memorandum and recommended approval subject to conditions 1 through 51. Commissioner Loi inquired if a traffic flow study had been conducted of the area near the hospital regarding emergency ambulance access. Mr. Holm responded that a traffic flow study had not been done. However, the site meets the requirements for off-street parking, and a parking study was completed for the hospital. The Chairman opened the public hearing. Addressing the Commission in favor of the request was: Laura Wang, 5923 N. Oak Avenue, Temple City, wife of Chi-An Wang. Mrs. Wang explained that the project will not only beautify the community aesthetically but will be beneficial financially by way of various fees and job opportunities. PC Minutes 7-17-95 Page 2 of 8 Arthur Mastro, 7437 and 7439 Hellman. Mr. Mastro stated that he is the neighbor west of the project and approves of the project as the property currently is a fire hazard. Mr. Mastro requested that the builders try to keep the dust at a minimum and not damage his wall during construction. Johnson Chong, 3412 Lindy Street. Mr. Chong stated that he has been meeting with the owner, Mr. Wang, concerning the design of the project and higher elevation levels. Mr. Chong explained that the high elevation levels will result in six homes facing into their backyards and bedrooms, blocking sunlight and wind, is an intrusion of privacy, and would impact traffic. Mr. Chong stated that thus far a satisfactory solution has not been reached. Edwina Chan, 3417 Lindy Avenue, representing her mother stated that the elevation levels between their home and the project is almost 30 feet which will result in a loss of privacy and blocking sunlight. Chi-An Wang, 5923 N. Oak Avenue, Temple City, owner of the property. Mr. Wang explained that the existing buildings to the east and west are two-story apartment buildings with 13 foot setbacks and that his project will have a minimum of 20 foot setbacks which will not affect the privacy of the neighbors as much as the apartment buildings. Mr. Wang stated further that according to a solar angle study, the 20 foot setback will not block the sunshine to the residents on the north side. There being no one else wishing to address the Commission, the public hearing was closed. Discussion by the Commission: Commissioner Ortiz asked about the difference in elevation levels on the north side of the project compared to the existing homes. Mr. Holm explained the northeast corner of the project which concerns the residents. The properties to the north have been cut to make flat lots for the new homes which include a 6' block wall on top of the retaining wall for a difference in elevation of approximately 10' to 15'. This is an existing condition along the entire north property line except about 5' at the northeast corner. The developer proposes to raise this corner to meet the rest of the lot. Commissioner Ortiz voiced his concern over the 18' to 19' driveway setbacks and recommended that all homes in this project meet a 20' setback standard with roll-up garage doors. Mr. Ortiz then asked if the Fire Department can access this street with turn-around capability. Mr. Holm replied that the Fire Department had reviewed the plans and are satisfied with the width of the street. Commissioner Ortiz stated that for this PD, the 10' second story sideyard setbacks should be maintained to prevent future problems. Mr. Holm explained that the project meets the intent of the second story setback and any future changes would have to come before the Planning Commission on a case-by- case basis. In addition, Condition #49 was included by staff to address this issue. Commissioner Loi inquired about the garage setbacks and asked if all the houses could have 20' setbacks. Mr. Holm responded that in order to maintain a 20' rear-yard setback, some of the driveways were shortened 6" to 2'. Staff felt this would not affect parking with the use of roll-up garage doors. However, the project could be conditioned to address a change in the design. PC Minutes Page 3 of 8 • Chairman Ruiz asked Mr. Wang to re-evaluate his plans and, if possible, make adjustments to meet the 20' driveway requirements. Chairman Ruiz asked Mr. Wang to address the Commission at this point. Mr. Wang stated that he is willing to change the driveway lengths to 20' with roll-up doors. Commissioner Ortiz requested clarification on the 10'second story sideyard setbacks for each lot and asked if the second story windows facing the sideyards will meet the 5.5 feet window sill requirement to ensure privacy. Mr. Ortiz stated that he would like to see a plan with setbacks included and what impact the configuration of the house would have on the area prior to making a motion. Stan Price, City Attorney, stated that these concerns are addressed in the Conditions of Approval and staff is instructed to monitor the building and carry these conditions out. Mr. Holm responded that the Conditions of Approval are to direct any modifications prior to final plan approval, but are not required to be fulfilled prior to the Planning Commission approval. Commissioner Breen stated for the record that he is opposed to eleven two-story homes being built within this narrow area and perhaps ten homes would be better, or to redesign the area. Commissioner Ortiz asked that the fire lanes be posted. (MO) It was moved by Commissioner Ortiz, seconded that Commissioner Lowrey that the Commission adopt a Mitigated Negative Declaration for Planned Development 95-01; recommend that the City Council approve General Plan Amendment 95-01, Zone Change 95-199, and Planned Development 95-01; and continue Tentative Tract Map 52002 to September 5, 1995 until the City Council has taken action on Item Nos. 2-4; and to amend the Conditions of Approval to include the 20' setback on the driveway to the garage doors. Vote resulted: YES: LOI, LOWREY, RUIZ, ORTIZ NO: BREEN ABSENT: NONE ABSTAIN: NONE Commissioner Breen stated that his No vote was in objection to having eleven homes in such a narrow area. Commissioner Ortiz stated that he was impressed with the staff report. B. MUNICIPAL CODE AMENDMENT 95-02-City Wide- Rosemead's Planning Department proposes to amend the Rosemead Municipal Code to require automotive-related uses to secure a conditional use permit in the C-3 and M-1 zones. Mr. Holm presented the staff report with the recommendation that the Commission adopt a Negative Declaration and recommend that the Commission Approve Municipal Code Amendment 95-02. Commissioner Loi asked if there is a time limit on obtaining CUP's for existing businesses. Mr. Holm responded that there is not. The Chairman opened the public hearing. There being no one else wishing to address the Commission, the public hearing was closed. PC Minutes Page 4 of 8 Discussion by the Commission: (MO) It was moved by Commissioner Breen, second by Commissioner Lowrey to adopt a Negative Declaration and recommend City Council Approval of Municipal Code Amendment 95-02. Vote resulted: YES: LOI, LOWREY, RUIZ, BREEN, ORTIZ NO: NONE ABSENT: NONE ABSTAIN: NONE C. CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT 95-639 - 8526 E. Valley Boulevard - Request from Michael C. Tse to transfer an existing on-sale general liquor (Type 47) license, in conjunction with an existing restaurant and nightclub, dba T & J Restaurant (cont'd. from 6-5-95 meeting). Mr. Troyer presented the staff report and stated that the outstanding issues had been addressed and recommended one year approval of the transfer subject to the conditions in Exhibit A. Commissioner Ortiz asked if the overgrown foliage and debris by the westerly property line had been cleaned up and that the electrical panel box is open. There being no objection, it was unanimously agreed to continue this item to the August 7, 1995, Planning Commission meeting. Michael Tse, 1813 S. 8th Street, Alhambra, applicant. Mr. Tse stated that he hired a new landscaper and has been working on the property this past week. Chairman Ruiz suggested that the applicant discuss this matter with the Planning staff. D. CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT 95-640 - 8258 E. Graves Avenue - Request from Quan Nhu Tran to construct a single family dwelling that exceeds 2,500 square feet in living area (cont'd. from 6-5-95 meeting). Mr. Troyer presented the staff report and stated that the soils report has been submitted and is satisfactory and the project is in compliance with all Zoning standards and recommends approval of the categorical exemption, Conditional Use Permit 95- 645 subject to the conditions of approval in Exhibit A. Commissioner Ortiz asked about the short front setback. Mr. Troyer responded that there is a mature existing tree on the west property line and to move the front setback further back would require removal of that tree and explained that staff tries to save as many trees as possible. In addition, the design meets the minimum front setback requirement. Commissioner Ortiz expressed his concern over mansionization of the one house. Mr. Troyer explained that the house would be a nice addition to the neighborhood and that the mature tree screens the house from other properties. The Chairman opened the public Quan Tran, 17909 Gallineta Street, Rowland Heights, Designer/applicant. Ms. Tran stated that they have been working on this project for one year and that the home is being designed for a large family. There being no one else wishing to address the Commission, the public hearing was closed. C PC Minutes Page 5 of 8 0 (MO) It was moved by Commission Loi, second by Commissioner Lowrey to approve Conditional Use Permit No. 95-645 subject to the conditions of approval in Exhibit A. Commissioner Ortiz stated that he opposed this item because the short front setback would result in mansionization whereby the other homes would be 35' to 40' behind the house, and would not meet the aesthetic needs of the community. Chairman Ruiz stated that new homes are now being built with four or five bedrooms and may be the wave of the future and that this project meets all the requirements. YES: LOI, LOWREY, RUIZ, BREEN NO: ORTIZ ABSENT: NONE ABSTAIN: NONE E. CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT 95-645 - 8832 E. Garvey Avenue, #C4 & #C5 - Request from Ninh Kien Ha to establish a sewing factory in an M-1 zone. Mr. Troyer presented the staff report and recommended approval of the request for one year subject to conditions in Exhibit A. Commissioner Ortiz stated that there were 17 employees on the premises, including the Manager. Mr. Troyer responded that the applicant will be limited to a maximum of 12 employees at any time, including part-time and managing employees. Mr. Holm explained that if this a Condition of Approval then the applicant must comply or the Commission can start revocation procedures. The Chairman opened the public hearing. Kien Ha, 8821 Garvey, #C4 and #C5, Rosemead, applicant. Mr. Kien explained that during a rush job they have part-time workers come in for a few hours and on occasion have had more than 12 people in the building. Chairman Ruiz asked if this is common practice for these types of businesses to bring in part-time workers during a rush job. Mr. Troyer explained that this is a reoccurring problem in the garment manufacturing businesses and that the applicant needs to understand and adhere to this condition. There being no one else wishing to address the Commission, the public hearing was closed. Discussion by the Commission: (MO) It was moved by Commissioner Ortiz, second by Commissioner Breen the Conditional Use Permit be issued for six months, subject to the conditions in the Exhibit A, and have staff monitor this establishment. Vote resulted: YES: LO1, LOWREY, RUIZ, BREEN, ORTIZ NO: NONE ABSENT: NONE ABSTAIN: NONE Mr. Troyer added that the owner of this building will receive a garment manufacturing maximum employee list for each suite so that a prospective tenant will be aware of how many employees are allowable. Chairman Ruiz asked that this list be in a memo for future reference. PC Minutes Page 6 of 8 5. OTHER BUSINESS A. EXTENSION OF CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT 93-597 - Request from Henry Wong to continue the on-sale beer and wine Type 41 license in conjunction with an existing restaurant at 8450 E. Valley Boulevard, dba 888 Seafood Restaurant (cont'd. from 6- 5-95 meeting) Mr. Troyer presented the staff report and recommended to continue the extension,of Conditional Use Permit 93-597 to the August 7, 1995 Commission meeting. There being no objection, it was unanimously agreed to continue this item to the August 7, 1995, Planning Commission meeting. Tony Wong and his brother Henry Wong, 8450 E. Valley Boulevard, Rosemead. Mr. Wong denied that the high number of thefts, robberies, or felony assault has occurred at the Center. Mr. Wagner explained that the Planning Commission is concerned with the overall Center and prior to approval is requesting a revised security plan from the owner. Mr. Wagner stated further that this is a way to ensure that the property owner is protecting his tenants and customers and is not a reflection on "888 Seafood". Mr. Troyer added that the revised security plan is to make the Center a safer place at night for all the restaurants, shops, and diners. Commissioner Loi asked if the property owner is going to fully comply with a security plan. Mr. Troyer stated that the property owner will address this issue at the next meeting. TO Hsu, Property Manager. Mr. Hsu stated that the Center has two APS security guards in the evening from 6:00 to 10:00 p.m. and one at 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and was concerned as to what more is required of the landlord. Mr. Troyer explained that the proposal was for a security plan from the owner and input from the Sheriff's Department to obtain an overall view of the problems at the Center to reduce the incidents of crime. Mr. Wagner suggested that a meeting be arranged with Sgt. Wallace, Mr. Hsu, and APS. Commissioner Breen stated that this property owner has always been most cooperative. There being no objection, it was unanimously agreed that this item be continued to the August 7, 1995, Planning Commission meeting. B. EXTENSION OF CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT 92-562 - Request from Sophia Wang Chan to continue the operation of a garment manufacturing business for property located at 2746 Stingle Avenue, dba Wang's Garment, Inc. Mr. Troyer presented the staff report and recommended approval of the extension request for three (3) years subject to the conditions in Exhibit A. Commissioner Lowrey asked if the weeds had been taken care of. Mr. Troyer responded that it had been. PC Minutes Page 7 of 8 (MO) It was moved by Commissioner Loi, second by Commissioner Breen to approve the extension of Conditional Use Permit 92-562 for three (3) years subject to the condition in Exhibit A. Vote resulted: YES: LOI, LOWREY, RUIZ, ORTIZ, BREEN NO: NONE ABSENT: NONE ABSTAIN: NONE C. PC RESOLUTION 95-20 - A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF ROSEMEAD, COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES, STATE OF CALIFORNIA APPROVING CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT NO. 95-644, ALLOWING THE TRANSFER OF AN EXISTING TYPE 20, OFF-SALE BEER AND WINE LICENSE TO DI V. LAM, DBA INTERNATIONAL MARKET, LOCATED IN THE R-1 ZONE AT 8636 E. RAMONA BOULEVARD (APN: 5289-002-055). D. PC RESOLUTION 95-21 - A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF ROSEMEAD, COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES, STATE OF CALIFORNIA APPROVING TENTATIVE PARCEL MAP 24158 ALLOWING SUBDIVISION OF AN EXISTING PARCEL INTO THREE (3) SEPARATE PARCELS FOR SINGLE FAMILY HOME DEVELOPMENT PURPOSES, FOR PROPERTY LOCATED AT 4228 RIO HONDO AVENUE (APN: 8592-009-023). Mr. Price presented the resolutions by title only. (MO) It was moved by Commissioner Lowrey, second by Chairman Ruiz to waive further reading and adopt. Vote resulted: YES: LOI, LOWREY, RUIZ, BREEN, ORTIZ NO: NONE ABSENT: NONE ABSTAIN: NONE 6. ORAL COMMUNICATION FROM THE AUDIENCE - On any matter not on the Agenda. Rudolph Vosher, 8822 N. Ivar, Rosemead. Mr. Vosher commented on crime in the area and that the higher rate of crime is to due to the expensive cars parked in restaurant parking lots and streets and that the owners of those establishments cannot be held responsible for infiltration of criminal elements. Chairman Ruiz stated that preventive security measures taken by the owners will only enhance business as the customers will feel there is security other than local law enforcement to protect their personal property. Mr. Vosher requested an explanation as to what a license for wine or beer has to do with security in the parking lots. Chairman Ruiz responded that the owner has a responsibility to his tenants and that the owner complies with the CUP beyond the tenants ability to control. 7. MATTERS FROM CITY OFFICIALS AND STAFF A. Mr. Troyer announced that the Planning Department has a new Intern, Cindy Tsang, a Mark Keppel High School student. B. Mr. Wagner informed the Commissioners that Don Detora, a long time Rosemead resident, passed away today. C. Commissioner Lowrey announced that Terry Irvine, a former Principal at Rosemead High School, passed away. PC Minutes Page 8 of 8 D. Commissioner Ortiz stated that the auto repair business next to T & J Restaurant needs to be cleaned up as it is littered with auto parts and oil on the ground which is a potential environmental hazard. Mr. Ortiz added that in contrast, Lloyd's auto repair on Valley is very clean and orderly. There be being no other business to come before the Commission, the meeting was adjourned at 8:55 p.m. The next meeting will take place on August 7, 1995, at 7:00 p.m.