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PC MINS 198811090 )CEN TIES PLA KIING COl4ISSION NEXTIMG M MWER 9, 1988 The meeting was called to order at 5:38 p.m. by Vice Chairman McNulty at Hesse Park Community Building, 29301 Hawthorne Boulevard. PRESENT: Von Hagen, McNulty, Wike Commissioner Ortolano arrived at 7:28 p.m. ABSENT: Connolly Also present were Director of Environmental Services Robert Benard, Senior Planner Greg Fuz, Associate Planner Carolynn Petru, and Assistant Planner Laurie Brigham. COMMUNICATIONS CONSENT CALENDAR Minutes of October 1, 1988 Conditional Use Permit No. 23 Revision "EE" and Grading No. 1182 3355 Palos Vista vice Chairman McNulty reported that several communications had been received relative to the Marriott Lifecare issue, and would be addressed at the time the agenda items were heard. Correct the typographical error in the word "crime" on Page Six, Paragraph Three. Change last sentence on Page Nine,' Paragraph seven to read ". . . nor would he object to purchasing a non -guide crank up tower." Commissioner Wike recommended that, because of the extent of the changes required, instead of approving this item with the conditions listed, it should be brcught back on the Consent Calendar for final approval. Director of Environmental services Benard explained that once approved, Staff would review the revisions. Motion was made by Commissioner and seconded by Vice Chairman McNulty to approve the Consent Calendar as amended. Motion passed 2-1. Comissioner bike dissented on Item B. Minutes November 9, 2988 Page Two Vice Chairman McNulty announced that the agenda would not follow the order in which it was presented. NEW BUSINESS Code Amendment No. 29 Senior Planner Fuz presented the Walls, Hedges, Fences Staff Report and reported that the City Council has initiated a Develop- ment Code Amendment in response to recent citizen concern regarding view obstruction caused by walls, hedges and fences. Mr. Fuz continued by stating that the City's development regulations currently establish a six foot height for any wall, hedge or fence located outside of the front or street side setback. Any wall, hedge or fence meeting the standard may generally be constructed without regard to view obstruction and without prior City approval. Recent concerns, however, have centered on a desire for stricter regulation of the height of walls, hedges and fences on terraced or hillside view lots, to prevent unnecessary view obstruction. He added that Staff believes it is necessary to balance the goal of view preservation with the right of a property owner to enclose his/her property for the purposes of privacy, security and maintenance. Mr. Fuz requested that the Commission review and comment on staff's preliminary draft language for the proposed amendment in advance of a public hearing on this matter tentatively scheduled for November 22. He also said that input will be obtained from. the City Attorney prior to the public hearing, but the basic approach to the proposed Code Amendment would need to be approved by the Commission. Warren Sweetnan, T Top Rail Lane, President of the Rancho Palos Verdes Council of Homeowner Associations, requested that a public workshop on this issue be conducted prior to proceeding to public hearing. Elaine Notz, 32413 Searaven Drive, commented that staff's 42 inch height recommendation will not substantially help the view impairment problem on Searaven Drive. Vice Chairman McNulty pointed out to Mrs. Mot-_ that CC&R_- are not enforceable by the City unless the City was a party to them. Commissioner tion Hagen said he would like to continue hearing more public comments in order to determine what is appropriate on a community wide level. Minutes November 9, 1988 Page Three Commissioner Wike concurred that a public workshop would be appropriate, and requested that input from the City Attorney be provided. Vice Chairman McNulty also recommended holding a public workshop as soon as possible, and said he was not in favor of imposing legislation without hearing from both sides of the issue. Director of Environmental services Benard announced that the public workshop will be held on Wednesday, November 30, 1988. Notices will be sent to all interested parties and will be published in the newspaper. Grading No. 1183 49 3/4 Rockinghorse Associate Planner Carolynn Petru presented the Staff Report and presented some background information on the property. She reported that the proposed residence complies with setback, height and open space requirements, but the topography and configuration of the parcel precludes construction of a residence in an area with a slope of less than 35'x. Ms. Petru added that the applicant has located the residence in the southwest corner of the lot closest to the point of access and has stepped the structure with the slope to minimize grading, however, staff is of the opinion that disturbance to the lot could be further reduced, that grading should be limited to the primary use of the property, and that height and number of retaining walls, and the square footage of the proposed level yard are excessive and should be redesigned. John Girard, 2306 Malcolm, hest Los Angeles, architect, asked for a revision of the Staff's recommendation to split the eight foot wall into two 4 -foot walls because, he said, it would not be practical and would be costly to the applicant. Allan Peters, 32024 Pacifica Drive, the applicant, supported Mr. Girard's statements, and requested consideration for an expanded turnaround in the driveway and for the supporting retaining wall. commissioner Von Hagen reported that he had visited the property and it appears reasonable to allow a turnaround in the driveway. He agreed with Staff's recommendation to step the 8 foot walls. 0 1 9 Minutes November 9, 1988 Page Four Associate Planner Petru noted that the need for a turnaround is not being disputed by Staff, but it was Staff's intent to break up the eight foot wall visually, which could be accomplished by redesigning the living area Commissioner 'alike also agreed that the turnaround was needed as a safety factor, but she did not agree that the eight foot retaining wall was necessary. notion was made by Counissioner Yon Hagen and seconded by Comm�issioner Ortolan that the application be approved as presented, with the revisions recommended by the architect, with the elimination of the five foot wall proposed to provide a light well, and that the walls will be stepped where appropriate. Notion carried 3-1. Commissioner Mike dissented. Appeal rights were noted by Vice Chairman Connolly. Conditional Use Permit Director of Environmental Services No. 101 Benard presented the Staff Report Revision "D" and noted that the applicant 28849 South Western Av. proposes to modify the parking and landscaping plan at the northeast corner of a commercial retail center on Western Avenue in order to accommodate a truck loading area for a proposed new tenant. The proposal would reduce a rectangular landscape planter of approximately 465 feet to a three foot linear strip of approximately 180 square feet. The remaining 285 square feet would be striped for "No Parking - Loading only". Mr. Benard said that Stuff recommended denial of the application due to the proximity of the proposed loading zone to the public right-of-way and its intensified visual presence caused by the elevation of the area above Western Avenue. Also, the creation of a loading zone, unscreened or buffered from the view of the public, would not be consistent with the development concepts of Specific Plan ZZ. Robert Le Koine, 11602 Wilshire Boulevard, Los Angeles, noted that actual delivery at the store in question would take place only one hour every five dans, and would amount to only 2.1% of the percentage of time available for delivery as approved by the Conditional Use Permit. He also Noted that delivery would take Minutes November 9, 1988 Page Five place at off peak hours, and the visual impact would be mitigated by such items as the fountain and the colorful awnings. Mr. Le Moine then presented the Commission with schematics showing the impact tracks would have on the redesigned area, and said he was also prepared to suggest a grass/concrete combination, and to re- la..^.dscape the street parallel with the northern boundary. Motion was made by Vice Chairman McNulty and seconded by Commissioner Ortolano that the Staff and Mr. Le Moine work out a reasonable compromise to this situation utilizing a grass/concrete design and upgraded landscaping. Motion unanimously passed. A recess was taken from 8:10 p.m. until 8:22 p.m. Vice Chairman McNulty reminded the audience that the public workshop for Development Code Amendment No. 29 will be held on November 30. PUBLIC HEARINGS Conditional Use Permit No. 138 Variance No. 205 Grading No 1101 Environmental Assessment No. 55 31270 Palos Verdes Dr. so. Director of Environmental Services Benard reported that revised plans have not been submitted by the applicant as instructed, preventing further evaluation of this project. staff therefore recommended continuance to November 22, at which time final action on the project must be taken by the Commission pursuant to State law. lotion was nage by Commissioner Von Hagen and seconded by Commissioner Ortolan to continue this item to November 22. Motion unanimously gassed. Variance No. 215 1-7 La Vista Verde Associate Planner Carolynn Petru presented the Staff Report and noted that the existing wall came to the City's attention in June 1988 while it was being constructed. A stop work order was issued on June 17, 1988. Construction continued on the wall, several verbal warnings and a second stop work order was issued on July 7, 1988. Ms. Petru added that permitting the existing solid wall to remain within the front yard setback would have an Minutes November 9, 1968 Page Six immediate, as well as a long term, cumulative impact on and open character of the residential neighborhood The Development Code does not allow solid walls in the front along street side setbacks. Vice Chairman McNulty opened the public hearing. the rural F�1 Jerry Sorkin, 27 La Vista Verde, the applicant, presented exhibits showing the original plans for the house, including the original wall. Mr. Sorkin reported that he was not advised that the wall was not in compliance with the Code, and attributed the entire situation to negligence on the City's behalf. He added that he has been harrassed by the City Staff, and rebuilding the wall would cost him additional expenses. Commissioner Wike said she could not support the wall as it currently stands, unless it could be mitigated. Commissioner Vow. Hagen noted that the current wall is in clear violation of the Code, but whether it existed previously needs to be explained. Motion was made by Commissioner Ortolano to adopt Staff 1tendation leo. 3, with the addition of the following statement: •?he application fees for this variance shall be refunded and the fee for the Minor Exception Permit shall be waived." Motion withdrawn by Commissioner Ortolano. Motion was made by Commissioner dike to deny the variance but allow the landowner to apply for a Minor Exception Permit to Modify the wall utilizing materials which permit 90% light and air to pass through the structure above 42 inches in height and has overall height not exceeding six feet. The Sorkins may appeal to the City Council for a refund of the $800 fees and submit an application for a Minor Exception Permit within 30 days. Motion passed 3 - 1. Commissioner Ortolano dissented. Conditional Use Permit No. 131 Tentative Parcel Map No. 19363 EZR No. 2? Marriott - Crestridge/ Crenshaw Director of Environmental Services Benard reported that recent communications were received from. Church of Jesus Christ of Latter -Day Saints; Terraces Homeowners Association; City of Rolling Hills and Palos Verdes Landholding Corporation. Minutes November 9, 1988 Page Seven Mr. Benard also reported that the Hon Development Corporation has withdrawn its application for a parcel map, and that Staff recommended that the Commission continue to take public testimony, then make a decision on denial or approval of the project at the November 22nd meeting, unless an extension is obtained from the applicant. Associate Planner Carolynn Petru presented the Staff Report and reported that this item was continued from October 25, 1988, at which time the Commission accepted public testimony on the adequacy of the Environmental Impact Report. Ms. Petru reviewed the impact levels of different uses on various community services, and reported that staff supports the density and scope of the project as proposed, but recommends that the applicant provide 346 parking spaces on-site, 125 of which must be enclosed garage spaces, with overflow parking on the eastern portion of the lot. Additionally, staff recommends pedestrian trails on the site and retention of the bicycle trail along Indian Peak Road. staff, she reported, does not support equestrian trails through a the site, but would support an analysis of a loop trail isolated to the Open Space Hazard portion of the lot (previously Parcel 3). Ed Novak, Director of Development for the Marriott Corporation, Marriott Drive, Washington, D.C., introduced the members of the Marriott development team, and presented an overview of the Marriott Corporation, with particular emphasis on the senior lifecare services division. He also reviewed the Marriott's financial structure and emphasized the fact that the Marriott has never developed a project which has become a financial burden on a city. Mr. Novak pointed out that the Marriott's concept is to develop communities and provide services which address the physical, social, phychological and emotional needs of the elderly, and presented a profile of the residents who would be attracted to the lifecare centers Mr. Novak stated that he has compiled statistics based on site specific research which indicate that over 78% of the respondents were likely to move into the protect. He also presented artists renderings of the project and discussed the site rationale and architectural criteria. Regarding withdrawal of the parcel map, Mr. Novak indicated that the Marriott will work out an arrangement to purchase the entire property. Nice Chairman McNulty opened the public hearing. Minutes November 9, 1988 Page Eight Grant Hornbeak, 25200 La Pas, Road, Layvna Hills, representing the Hon Corporation, said he was available to answer questions, if needed. Michael Riccio, 29356 Quailwood Drive, President of the Mesa Palos Verdes Homeowners Association, commented that the project would provide a visual blight for the residents whose homes are above it. He was concerned about safety relative to construction traffic, and requested that open space hazard land not be included in the density calculation. Edward Hall, 48 Cottonwood Circle, noted that no good definition exists for where the equestrian and pedestrian trails will be located, and concluded that trails would add to the problem of squatters erecting houses in the area. Daniel Blatt, 29225 Stonecrest Road, noted that the Staff's calculations relative to land swell are inaccurate and that the traffic surveys are erroneous and contradictory. He said the EIR should be rejected and the applicant should be requested to take an extension. John Arand, 5731 Mistridge, requested that the Commission not certify the EIR, and discussed density calculations, parking requirements, alteration of the topography, and overlay dl--tri--t--. Anthony Segreto, 5677 Mistridge Drive, presented copies of a risk/benefit analysis related to the project, and summarized his concerns regarding extreme slopes, geological stability, retaining walls, traffic, drainage systems, fire safety and economic viability. He added that the EIR is inadequate and that the project should be rejected. Steve Silverstone, 5805 Scotwood Drive, said he was opposed to the equestrian trail along the Congregation Ner Tamid property and adjacent to Crestridge. Barbara Dye, 7035 Hartcrest Drive, representing the Trails Committee, reviewed the Trails Committee's recommendations for the possible linkage from the Westfield area and the City of Polling Hills to the equestrian developments in Rolling Hills Estates. option No. 1 presumes a multipurpose trail with access from Parcel 3 provided along the western boundary of Parcel 1. Option No. 2 presumes a multipurpose trail providing from Parcel 3 along the western boundary of Parcel 2. Option No. 3 presumes a pedestrian trail providing access from Parcel 3 along the western boundary of Parcel 1. Option No. 4 presumes a pedestrian Minutes November 9, 1988 Page Nine trail providing access from Parcel 3 along the western boundary of Parcel 2. Regarding the North-South cut across, Ms. Dye reported that the Trails Committee has proposed the following options: option No. 1 - Preserve the existing route through the Marriott site using the western access between the synagogue and the Marriott site. Option No. 2 - Multipurpose trail with access along the eastern side of the easement down to Crenshaw. Option No. 3 - Same as Option No. 1, but construct a horse trail in the center median from mid -block crossing to Highridge. Option No 4 - Divert existing trail through the Marriott site; create equestrian trail in the Crestridge median to Highridge, providing barrier -free curb cuts wherever the trail crosses a curb. Motion was made by Commissiner von Hagen and seconded by Commissioner Hike to continue the public hearing on this item to November 22, 1988. Motion unanimously passed. Director of Environmental Services Berard reported that the developers do not intend to change the configuration of the _project, and that policy memoranda will be researched in order to determine if any density has ever been specif ied in -the institutional zone. In discussing the EIR, Commissicrer Ortolano said she thought that this was an inadequate document, and she rejected many of the assumptions made by Staff She was not in favor of waiting for the City Attorney's opinion before advising Staff to proceed in any direction. Commissioner Ortolano complimented the Trails Committee for their report, and noted that she was not in favor of taking easements to preserve the right to build trails on this particular property, but she was in support of an all-purpose trail Commissioner Von Hagen thought it was appropriate to give credit to the open space hazard area. He added that the trails network plan should be reviewed at the November 22 meeting. Commissioner wike asked that Staff and the applicant provide a cross section of the site elevations showing existing land contours and building height where the building wings run northward. She proposed that the developer come up with design alternatives for the building in order to soften the effect of a massive structure. Minutes November 9, 1988 Page Ten Vice Chairman McNulty commented that the project is excessive in size and in height as it is presently constituted. He recommended reducing the size of the building and lowering the height, and urged the Marriott development team to be considerate of the community. Director of Environmental Services Benard explained that the Trails Committee recommendation for a limited equestrian zone on Parcel 3 will be re-evaluated in light of the withdrawal of the Tract Map. He noted that the Staff position is to support the pedestrian trail linkage as is appropriate, but not the equestrian trail. A recess was taken from 11:20 p.m. until 11:32 p.m. CONTINUED BUSINESS Site Plan Review No. 3936 2175 Rockinghorse Road Director of Environmental Services Benard presented the Staff Report and noted that on August 23, 1988, the commission directed the applicant to obtain an analysis from a second satellite technician to determine if any ground mounted locations existed in the rear yeard where reasonable satellite reception could be received. Mr. Benard also said that the technician's report identifies locations where reasonable reception potential exists, however, the applicant is concerned that he will be able to continue to receive Italian programming. Placing the antenna in the location proposed by the applicant, it must be demonstrated that no other reasonable locations exist for alternate placement. Mr. Benard then reviewed the Staff recommendation to deny the application, which would permit placement of the satellite dish antenna on the property in the rear yard of the lot in areas A, B,,--,D,E shown on the technician's report, Stefano Finazzo, 2175 Rockinghorse Road, stated that the Staff analysis is incorrect, and no reasonable alternative location would be feasible for him to continue to receive the desired programming. It was also his opinion that no significant view impairment existed at 2177 Rockinghorse Road, particularly with installation of proposed fence. Minutes November 9, 1988 Page Eleven Gilbert Alberio, 2177 lockinghorse load, urged the Commission to deny the application. Regarding the trees mentioned in the Staff Report, Mr. Alberio said he was prepared to trim the trees if they have been identified as creating an impediment to Mr. Finazzo's reception. Exhibits presented by Mr. Alberio included a map showing possible areas where the antenna could be located on Mr. Finazzo's property. Carmen Alberio, 2177 lockinghorse load, echoed Mr. Alberio's opinions and reminded the Commission that Mr. Finazzo's antenna was installed without a permit. Motion was made by Commissioner Von Hagen and seconded by Commissioner ortolan that the application be denied and that the ground mounted location be selected so the applicant may receive programming of choice. Motion unanimously passed. Appeal rights were noted. NEW BUSINESS Site Plan. Review No. 4717 4030 Admirable Assistant Planner Laurie Brigham presented the Staff Report, and noted that the property owner requested approval of an existing satellite dish antenna on the property located at 4030 Admirable Drive. The dish is ground mounted and projects through the roof eave and is approximately 21 feet above grade level. Ms. Brigham said that Staff's primary concern is the antenna's extreme v1sibility form adjacent public streets and Sidewalks. Several of the tall pine trees on the neighbor's property at 4031 Palos Verdes Drive South, which previously provided partial- screening artialscreening of the disc. from Palos Verdes Drive South, are dead and will have to be removed. These trees are the majority of the signal blcckage problem, and their removal may opoen a reception area. A detailed analysis should be submJtted to detene_.._i.f relocating or lowering the antenna so it will be screened -and still receive reasonable reception is feasible, Stan Boggess, 4030 Admirable Drive, addressed the Staff Report which, he said, is based on insufficient data Minutes November 9, 1988 Page Twelve Vice Chairman McNulty recommended continuance of this item until the Commission has had an opportunity to analyze reports which address satellites antenna dishes and locations and make a further recommendation. Director of Environmental Services Benard noted that Staff recommended continuance of this item to December 13, 1988. George Caanady, 4037 Admirable Drive, who lives across the street from the applicant, stated that trimming of the trees has increase3the visibility of the antenna from his perspective, and he suggested its relocation to the rear yard below the roof line. Steve Perestam, 4433 Exultant Drive, whose residence is behind the applicant's also said that the dying trees;�Ve made antenna more visible. Vice Chairman McNulty stated that insufficient evidence exists to determine whether the antenna is placed in the most appropriate location, and he referred to the Code which recommends no roof mounted antennas unless no other location exists where reception can be obtained. Motion was made by Commissioner Wike and seconded by Commissioner Vn Hagen to continue this application to December 13, 1988. Motion unanimously carried. QUESTIONS FROM THE AUDIENCE There were no questions from the audience regarding non agenda items. STAFF REPORTS Director of Environmental Service Berard reported that Assistant Planner, ,lack Roberts, left the City's employment and Associate Planner carclynn Wzlker will be leaving in December. COMMISSION REPORTS CommiSSioner tion Hagen reported that he attended the Seaview Homeowners Association Picnic and was invited to attend the association's meeting on November 16. Commissiner Wike reported that she will attend the SCAG meeting on November 10, 1988. Minutes November 9, 1988 Page Thirteen ADJOURNMENT The meeting was duly adjourned at 12.32 a.m. to November 22, 1988, 6.30 p.m. at Hesse Park Community Building, 29301 Hawthorne Boulevard.