RPVCCA_SR_2011_04_05_12_Code_Amendment_to_Eliminate_Temp_Special_Event_Banner_Sign_Program
RANCHO PALOS VERDES
PUBLIC HEARING
Date: April 5, 2011
Subject: Code Amendment to Eliminate Temporary Special Event Banner
Sign Program in the City’s Right of Way
Subject Property: Citywide
1. Declare the Hearing Open: Mayor Long
2. Report of Notice Given: City Clerk Morreale
3. Staff Report & Recommendation: Assistant Planner Harwell
4. Public Testimony:
Appellants: N/A
Applicant: N/A
5. Council Questions:
6. Rebuttal:
7. Declare Hearing Closed: Mayor Long
8. Council Deliberation:
9. Council Action:
W:\AGENDA\Public Hearing Formats\public hearing format Council-Form 25 BANNER SIGN program.doc
12-1
CITY OF
MEMORANDUM
TO:
FROM:
DATE:
HONORABLE MAYOR &MEMBERS OF THE CITY COUNCIL
JOEL ROJAS,COMrVELOPMENT DIRECTOR
APRIL 5,2011
SUBJECT:CODE AMENDMENT TO ELIMINATE TEMPORARY SPECIAL EVENT
BANNER SIGN PROGRAM IN THE CITY'S RIGHT-OF-WAY
REVIEWED:CAROLYN LEHR,CITY MANAGER Cl9--
Staff Coordinator:Abigail Harwell,Assistant Planner ~
RECOMMENDATION
Continue the public hearing to May 17,2011
DISCUSSION
In order to have all five City Council members present to hear this item,Staff is
recommending that the public hearing be continued to May 17,2011 as that is the next
meeting when all members of the Council are expected to be present.
Attachments:
•Staff Report presented to the Planning Commission on February 8,2011
•Excerpt from the Planning Commission approved minutes for the February 8,
2011 meeting
•E-mails and correspondence received from the public
12-2
CrrYOF
MEMORANDUM
RANCHO PALOS VERDES
TO:
FROM:
DATE:
CHAIRMAN &MEMBERS OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION
JOEL ROJAS,COMMUNITY DE~PMElQT DIRECTOR
FEBRUARY 8,2011 UV
SUBJECT:CONSIDERATION OF A PROPOSED CODE AMENDMENT TO
ELIMINATE THE CURRENT PROGRAM THAT ALLOWS NON-
COMMERCIAL ORGANIAZATIONS TO PLACE TEMPORARY
SPECIAL EVENT SIGNS IN THE CITY'S RIGHTS·OF·WAY
Staff Coordinator:Abigail Harwell,Assistant Planner ~
RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends that the Planning Commission adopt P.C.Resolution No.2011-_,
recommending that the City Council adopt Ordinance No._,a Code Amendment
eliminating RPVMC Section 17.76.050.0.4,thereby eliminating the program that allows
non-commercial organizations to place temporary special event signs in the City's rights-of-
way.
BACKGROUND
The City's Municipal Code currently allows temporary special event signs or other signs for
noncommercial organizations to be placed in the public right-of-way with City approval.
The current guidelines for such signs were incorporated into the City's Development Code
in 1998.Typically,it is non-profit organizations or other community groups that take
advantage of this Code provision to advertise upcoming special events.Originally,there
were multiple locations in the.city where temporary special event signs could be displayed.
The locations consisted of fencing along the public right-of-way adjacent to undeveloped
open space.However,as the open space became developed over the years and the
adjacent fencing removed,sign placement was reduced to just one location at the
northeast corner of Hawthorne Boulevard and Silver Spur Road.In 2007 Staff became
aware that the Hawthorne/Silver Spur location was no longer available,as Public Works
Staff confirmed that the fence,which the signs were affixed to,is on private property.As a
result of this revelation and to accommodate the number of requests for sign placement
received from community groups,Staff presented an item to the City Council to approve
12-3
Case No.ZON2011-00007 (Code Amendment)
February 8,2011
three new locations within the city right-of-way and/or city property where such temporary
special event signs could be displayed.
On June 3,2008,Staff presented a Staff Report recommending that the City Council
approve three new locations for the placement of temporary signs.The proposed locations
were:
•Silver Spur Road and Deep Valley Drive,across the street from the U.S.Post
Office;
•Hawthorne Boulevard and Locklenna Lane,on the northwest corner within Hesse
Park;and
•Palos Verdes Drive South and Palos Verdes Drive East,on the north side of the
street next to the stop sign for the traffic traveling south on Palos Verdes Drive East.
The City Council approved the proposed new locations on a 5-0 vote with no discussion.
After the approval,Community Development Staff worked with members of the Public
Works Department to prepare the three new sites with supporting poles for the display of
two signs at each location.The banner posts were installed in the summer of 2010,with
the first banner application approved on June 9,2010.At that time,Staff also stopped
permitting signs at the intersection of Silver Spur and Hawthorne.
Once Staff began issuing permits,issues of concern were raised to Staff related to the
placement of temporary signs at all three of the locations approved by the City Council in
2008.Concerns received from residents include the unsightliness of the signs,proliferation
of signs,and various other complaints.Due to the concerns associated with each location,
and the unavailability of other viable public right-of-way sign locations,on December 7,
2010,at the request of Staff,the City Council initiated a Code Amendment to eliminate the
existing program that allows noncommercial organizations to place temporary signs or
other signs in the City's rights-of-way.In addition,the City Council suspended the issuance
of temporary sign permits while the code amendment to eliminate the program is
processed.The Staff Report prepared for the December 7,2010 meeting along with the
approved excerpted minutes from that meeting are attached.
On January 18,2011,Staff mailed out 137 notices to property owners located within 500
feet of the three currently approved temporary sign locations,as noted above,and 44
notices to applicants who had received approval for the placement of temporary signs in
the public right-of-way within the last calendar year.As of the writing of this Staff Report,
one letter has been received by Staff (attached).Also,it should be noted that Staff met
with members of the Palos Verdes Chamber of Commerce Executive Committee on
January 31,2011 to discuss the proposed code amendment.
12-4
Case No.ZON2011-00007 (Code Amendment)
February 8,2011
DISCUSSION
The City approval process and regulations that allow noncommercial organizations to place
special event signs in the public right-of-way are contained in RPVMC Section
17.76.050.0.4.The regulations are as follows:
4.Temporary speoial event or other signs for nonoommeroial organizations
may be plaoed in the public right-of-way,pursuant to the following
guidelines:
a.For purposes of this seotion,speoial event signs shall be limited to
signs whioh advertise a speoifio aotivity ooourring on a partioulardate;
b.For speoia/event signs,written request on forms provided by the oity
shall be made to the direotor no sooner than ninety days prior to the
speoial event;
o.Signs shall only be piaoed at looations in the right-of-way identified
and designated by the direotor;
d.Signs shall be ereoted in a manner presoribed by the direotor so as
not to pose a traffio hazard and/or impede pedestrian or vehioular
aooess within the public right-of-way;
e.For speoial event signs,eaoh noncommercial organization shall be
limited to the plaoement of two temporary signs within the oity's publio
righ~o~wayperspe~alevent
f.For signs other than speoial event signs,eaoh noncommercial
organization shall be limited to the plaoement of two suoh signs within
the oity's right-of-way per year.
g.Eaoh sign shall not exoeed thirty-two square feet in size;
h.Eaoh sign shall be displaoed for a maximum of thirty days;
i.Speoial event signs shall be removed within forty-eight hours of the
event's oonolusion;and
j.Applioants shall submit to the direotor a deposit fee established by the
oity oounoil in the form of oash,oheok or money order as seourity for
the plaoement of signs in aooordanoe to these guidelines.Failure to
ereot and/or maintain the signs in aooordanoe with guidelines (b)
through (h)ofthis subseotion (subseotions (D)(4)(b)through (D)(4)(h)
of this seotion)shall result in the forfeiture of the seourity deposit.
Community Development Dep,artment Staff review sign placement requests on a first come
first served basis and issue sign permits to organizations that meet the placement criteria.
Once approved for a specific time period at a specific location,the organization is then
responsible for affixing their temporary sign to the existing support poles at the sign display
location and removing the sign when their approved time period has lapsed.Staff
manages the program in a way that ensures that not more than the two signs are displayed
12-5
Case No.ZON2011-00007 (Code Amendment)
February 8,2011
at each location.The Department's Code Enforcement Staff becomes involved if signs are
not removed when required.Since June 2010,Staff has approved the placement of 22
signs by 20 different community organizations.
Since Staff began approving temporary signs at the three new locations in June 2010,
some issues of concern have been brought to staff's attention.These issues of concern
are discussed below.
Public Concerns with the Approved Sign Locations
Silver Spur Road/Deep Valley Drive (across from Post Office)
Shortly after the first signs were displayed at this location,Staff was contacted by the City
of Rolling Hills Estates expressing concerns with the visual appearance of allowing
temporary signs at this location.Subsequently,the City of Rolling Hills Estates notified
Staff that the banner locations were actually within their public right-of-way and asked that
the support poles be removed.In response,Staff immediately voided the location for
continued use until the matter could be further reviewed.The banner posts were
subsequently removed and the site was modified to its previous condition.
Palos Verdes Drive South/Palos Verdes Drive East
Last year,Staff received a complaint from a nearby resident expressing concerns with the
signs placed at this location.The main concern was that the signs detracted from the
visual appearance of the surrounding area.After it was explained that the location was
approved by the City Council in 2008,no further communication on the matter was
received from the resident.
Hawthorne Boulevard/Locklenna Lane (Corner of Hesse Park)
The inclusion of a portion of Hesse Park as an approved temporary sign location has
raised a couple of issues of concern with some members of the public.First,allowing two
temporary signs for community organizations at this location in addition to temporary signs
placed by the City's Recreation &Parks Department to advertise upcoming City events has
prompted complaints that there is an unsightly proliferation of temporary signs at this
location.Secondly,the allowance of community organizations to place signs for events
that are not related to Hesse Park or the City of RPV on a City park site has caused some
confusion..
Lack of Ideal Sign Placement Locations
In addition to the specific complaints about the three locations described above,Staff has
12-6
Case No.ZON2011·00007 (Code Amendment)
February 8,2011
also received complaints from the community organizations that post the banners
regarding the lack of visibility of these locations in comparison to the previously used
locations.Staff recognizes that the three sites identified by Staff and approved for use by
the City Council in 2008 have their limitations.However,based on the City wide site
evaluation performed in 2008 that was used to identify the 3 current sign locations (which
remains valid today),Staff does not believe that there are any other viable locations for
temporary sign placement within the public right-of-way.While there may be opportunities
for temporary sign placement on some City owned properties,park sites or within traffic
medians,Staff does not recommend pursuing said sites as they will likely create their own
set of concerns.
Inability to Regulate Sign Content
While the current municipal code regulations for allowing temporary signs in the public
right-of-way allow the City to review sign placement requests to ensure consistency with
the regulations,the City cannot approve or deny requests based on sign content.In other
words,if a controversial group with a controversial message wishes to display a sign with a
message that may be offensive to some members of the public,the City must approve the
sign request provided it meets the approval criteria.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Re-numbering Section 17.76.050.0.5
As Staff is recommending eliminating section 17.76.050.0.4 from the Municipal Code,the
following subsection Section 17.76.050.0.5 should be retained and re-numbered in order
to stay consistent with the order of the Municipal Code:
1t5.Temporary signs allowed by this subsection shall be removed upon the
completion of the campaign,the culmination of any of the above activities,or the
expiration of any other time frame specified by this section.II
Public Correspondence
As previously noted,one letter was received on February 1,2011,in regards to the
proposed code amendment.Rosemarie Buehler Kolin,of the American Cancer Society
and the Relay for Life event,wrote with concern to the elimination of temporary banner sign
program.Ms.Kolin,a RPV resident,writes how promoting the event is difficult and would
be much more so without continued use of this banner sign program.
In addition to the letter received,Kathy Gould of the Palos Verdes Chamber of Commerce
contacted Staff to ask that they attend their Executive Committee meeting to explain the
12-7
Case No.ZON2011-00007 (Code Amendment)
February 8,2011
proposal.Staff met with the 8 person Executive Committee on January 31,2011 at the
Palos Verdes Library,to explain to them the genesis behind the proposed code
amendment.Committee members expressed concern with the elimination of the banner
sign program,with many stating they thought the signs and promotion of the non-
commercial organizations'events was a positive aspect for the community.Also,several
had issue with the amount and location of City sponsored signs,located at City Hall and at
various other locations,and felt it was not fair to have the City posting signs for their events
but not allow other organizations to advertise as well.An e-mail summarizing the
Chamber's concern is attached.
ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT
In accordance with the provisions of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), the
proposed code amendment is exempt from further CEQA analysis through Section
15061.b.3,which allows certain exemptions by the general rule that CEQA applies only to
project which have the potential for causing a significant effect on the environment.Staff
believes with certainty that there is no possibility that the code amendment in question may
have a significant effect on the environment and thus is not subject to CEQA.
CONCLUSION
While the opportunity for community organizations to provide no-cost advertisement for
special events through the placement of temporary banner signs at designated locations
within the City's public rights-of-way has been available for quite some time,lack of
appropriate and adequate locations,as well as lack of public support has made the
availability to provide this service difficult.Additionally,the Municipal Code does not allow
for regulation of banner content,which could have the potential for further issues.As such,
Staff is recommending that the Planning Commission recommend to the City Council,
approval of a Code Amendment to remove RPVMC Section 17.76.050.0.4 thereby
eliminating the program that allows the placement of temporary special event signs in the
public right-of-way.
ALTERNATIVES
In addition to Staffs recommendation,below are alternatives for Planning Commission to
consider:.
1.Determine that the current sign program should be retained but with amendments to
improve it's effectiveness,and direct Staff to mod ify the proposed amendments as
such for further discussion by the Planning Commission at the next Planning
Commission meeting.
12-8
Case No.ZON2011·00007 (Code Amendment)
February 8,2011
2.Determine that the current program should be retained without any amendments
and direct Staff to return with the appropriate resolution at the next Planning
Commission meeting.
Attachments:
•PC Resolution No.2011-_,recommending Council adoption of the Code
Amendment
•December 7,2010 City Council Staff Report and excerpted City Council Minutes
•Letter from Rosemarie Buehler Kolin,received February 1,2011
•E-mail from Kathy Gould,dated January 31,2011
12-9
P.C.RESOLUTION NO.2011-
A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE
CITY OF RANCHO PALOS VERDES RECOMMENDING THAT
THE CITY COUNCIL ADOPT AN ORDINANCE,ELIMINATING
SECTION 17.76.050.0.4 OF THE CITY'S MUNICIPAL CODE,
WHICH WILL NO LONGER ALLOW TEMPORARY SPECIAL
EVENT OR OTHER SIGNS FOR NONCOMMERCIAL
ORGANIZATIONS TO BE PLACED IN THE PUBLIC RIGHT -OF-
WAY,AND RE-NUMBER MUNICIPAL CODE SECTION
17.76.050.0.5 TO 17.76.050.0.4 (CASE NO.ZON2011-00007).
WHEREAS,Section 17.76.050 of the City of Rancho Palos Verdes
Municipal Code (the "Municipal Code")sets forth various procedures and
regulations regarding the provision of signage on private and public property
within the City;and,
WHEREAS,since 1998,the City's Development Code currently allows
temporary special event signs or other signs for noncommercial organizations to
be placed in the public right-of-way with City approval;and,
WHEREAS,on June 3,2008,the City Council approved three locations
for the posting of 2 signs per location:Silver Spur Road and Deep Valley Drive;
Hawthorne Boulevard and Locklenna Lane;and Palos Verdes Drive South and
Palos Verdes Drive East;and,
WHEREAS,on Jun 9,2010,Staff began issuing permits for the three
locations;and,
WHEREAS,due to concerns raised by residents and applicants,on
December 7,2010,the City Council initiated a code amendment to eliminate the
existing program that allows noncommercial organizations to place temporary
signs or other signs in the City's right-of-way;and,
WHEREAS,on January 18,2011,Staff mailed out 137 notices to property
owners located 500 feet of the three currently approved temporary sign locations,
and 44 notices to applicants who had received approval for temporary signs
within the public right-of-w~y within the last calendar year;and,
WHEREAS,on January 20,2011,notice of a public hearing on the
proposed amendments to Section 17.76.050.D of the Municipal Code was
published in the Palos Verdes Peninsula News;and,
p.e.Resolution No.2011-_
Page 1 of 4
12-10
WHEREAS,pursuant to the provisions of the California Environmental
Quality Act ("CEQA")Section 15061.b.3,the code amendment is exempt from
further CEQA analysis as by a general rule CEQA applies only to projects which
have the potential for causing a significant effect on the environment,and Staff
believes with certainty that there is no possibility the code amendment may have
a significant effect on the environment;and,
WHEREAS,after notice issued pursuant to the requirements of the
Rancho Palos Verdes Development Code,the Planning Commission held a duly
noticed public hearing on February 8,2011,at which time all interested parties
were give an opportunity to be heard and present evidence.
NOW,THEREFORE,THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF
RANCHO PALOS VERDES DOES HEREBY FIND,DETERMINE,AND
RESOLVE AS FOLLOWS:
Section 1:That the amendments to Title 17 of the Municipal Code are
consistent with California Government Code Section 65853,zoning amendment
procedures.
Section 2:That the amendments to Title 17 are consistent with the
Rancho Palos Verdes General Plan and Coastal Specific Plan in that they
uphold,and do not hinder,the goals and policies of those plans.Specifically,the
elimination of Section 17.76.050.0.4 will result in less signage and eliminate the
possibility of a controversial sign being displayed.
Section 3:The Planning Commission finds that the amendments to
Title 17 are necessary to preserve the public health,safety,and general welfare
in the area
Section 4:Section 17.76.050.0.4 of Chapter 17.76 (Miscellaneous
Permits and Standards)of Title 17 of the Municipal Code is hereby removed,
including (shown in strikethrough text for text removed):
"4.Temporary spoola!o'leni and othor slgns for nonoommorolal
organizations FRay bo plaood in tho pl:Jblio FigRt of YI8Y,pursuant to tho fo!!mving
gl:Jidollnos:
a..t=or purposos of thls sootion,spoola.'ovent signs shall bo #mltod to
&lgns whioh advorliso a spooifio aoti'Aty ooourring on a partioE:JIar date;
b.For spooial o'lont signs,writton FOqUOSt on forms provided by tho
olly shalf bo made to tho dirootor no soon or than ninoty days prior to tho spoo/a!
o'lGnt;
o.Signs shall only bo plaood at looations in tho right of way identifiod
and designated by tho dfrootor;
P.C.Resolution No.2011-_
Page 2 of 4
12-11
d.Signs MaN Be ereoted in a maMer presorilJed By the direotor se as
net to pese a tramo hazaFd and/or fFRpede pedestrian or vehioul-ar aooess within
the puBlio right of.Ylay;
r:::•I 1-'I..•I •10'I..I'I..e.dar speOiar e',tenr 819ns,eaon nonoommerola.orgamzsr:on SnalY lJe
limited to the plaoement of two te111poFary signs within tho oity's puB!io right of.
~~perspernalevent
f.For signs other than &pernal et/ent signs,each nonoommeroi-al
organization shaH Be lfFRited to the p!aooment of two such signs within the Gitts
right of.way per yea ...:
g.Each sign Ma!.'not exoeed thlrty two square feet in area;
h.Each sign sha!!be displayed for a maximum of thirly days;
i.Speoia!event signs shall Be removed within foFfy eight hours of the
event's oonolusion;and,
}.Applioants sha!.'suBmit to the direotor a deposit fee established by
the olly council in the form of Gash,cheek or money order as seourity for the
pl-aoement of signs in aooordanoe to these guideHnes.Failure to ereot and/or
maintain the signs in aoooFdanoe with guldeflnes (b)through (h)of this
subseotion (suBseotions (D)(4)(b)through (0)(4)(h)of this seotion)shall roswt in
the forfeiture of the seourity depos#.
Section 5:Section 17.76.050.0.5 of Chapter 17.76 (Miscellaneous
Permits and Standards)of Title 17 of the Municipal Code is hereby amended to
be re-numbered to 17.76.050.0.4 and be read as follows (bold underline text for
new text and strikethrough text for text to be deleted):
('.6~.Temporary signs allowed by this subsection shall be removed upon
the completion of the campaign,the culmination of any of the above activities,or
the expiration of any other time frame specified by this section.11
Section 6:The amendments to Title 17 of the Rancho Palos Verdes
Municipal Code as identified in Sections 4 and 5 previously shall become
effective on the effective date of an ordinance adopted by the City Council.
Section 7:For the foregoing reasons,and based on the information and
findings included in the Staff Report,Minutes,and other records of proceedings,
the Planning Commission of the City of Rancho Palos Verdes hereby
recommends that the City Council adopt an Ordinance amending Title 17 of the
City's Municipal Code to eliminate Section 17.76.050.0.4,no longer continuing
the program that allows non-commercial organizations to place temporary special
event signs in the City's rights-of-way,and to re-number Section 17.76.050.0.5
to become Section 17.76.050.0.4.
p.e.Resolution No.2011-_
Page 3 of4
12-12
PASSED,APPROVED,AND ADOPTED this 8th day of February 2011,by the
following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSTENTION:
ABSENT:
RECUSALS:
David L.Tomblin
Chairman
Joel Rojas,AICP
Community Development Director;and
Secretary to the Planning Commission
P.C.Resolution No.2011-_
Page 4 of4
12-13
CrTYOF
MEMORANDUM
RANCHO PALOS VERDES
TO:
FROM:
DATE:
SUBJECT:
REVIEWED:
HONORABLE MAYOR &MEMBERS OF THE CITY COUNCIL
JOEL ROJAS,COMMUNI~~PMENTDIRECTOR
DECEMBER 7,2010 UV
CODE AMENDMENT INITIATION TO ELIMINATE ORAMEND THE
CURRENT PROGRAM THAT ALLOWS NON-COMMERCIAL
ORGANIZATIONS TO PLACE TEMPORARY SPECIAL EVENT SIGNS
OR OTHER TEMPORARY SIGNS IN THE CITY'S RIGHTS-OF-WAY
CAROLYN LEHR,CITY MANAGER 09.--
Staff Coordinator:Abigail Harwell,Assistant Planner
RECOMMENDATION
Direct Staff to suspend the approval of any new temporary banner sign applications and
initiate a code amendment process involving fUlly noticed public hearings before the
Planning Commission and City Council to eliminate the program that allows non-
commercial organizations to place temporary special event signs or other signs in the City's
rights-of-way.
BACKGROUND
The City's Municipal Code currently allows temporary special event signs or other signs for
noncommercial organizations to be placed in the public right-of-way with city approval.
The current guidelines for such signs were incorporated into the City's Development Code
in 1998.Typically,it is non-profit organizations or other non-commercial community groups
that take advantage of this"Code provision to advertise upcoming special events.
Originally,there were multiple locations in the City where temporary special event signs
could be displayed.The locations consisted of fencing along the public rights-of-way
adjacent to undeveloped open space.However,as the open space became developed
over the years,and the adjacent fencing was removed,sign placement was reduced to just
one location at the northeast corner of Hawthorne Boulevard and Silver Spur Road.In
12-14
Update:Special Event Signs
December 7,2010
2007 Staff became aware that the Hawthorne/Silver Spur location was no longer available,
as Public Works Staff confirmed that the fence,to which the signs were affixed,is on
private property,not the public right-of-way.As a result of this revelation and to
accommodate the number of requests for sign placement received from community
groups,Staff presented an item to the City Council to approve three new locations within
the City right-of-way and/or City property where such temporary special event signs or
other signs from non-commercial organizations could be displayed.
On June 3,2008,Staff presented a Staff Report recommending that the Council approve
three new locatioris for the placement of temporary signs (see attached Staff Report).The
proposed locations were:
•Silver Spur Road and Deep Valley Drive,across the street from the U.S.Post
Office;
•Hawthoroe Boulevard and Locklenna Lane,on the northwest corner within the
Hesse Park area;and
•Palos Verdes Drive South and Palos Verdes Drive East,on the north side of the
street next to the stop sign for the traffic traveling south on Palos Verdes Drive East.
The City Council approved the proposed new locations on a 5-0 vote with no discussion.
After the approval,Community Development Staff worked with members of the Public
Works Department to prepare the three new sites with supporting poles for the display of
two signs at each location.Due to changes in Staff and availability of resources,the
banner posts were not installed until the summer of 201 0,with the first banner applications
approved on June 9,2010.At that time,Staff also stopped permitting signs at the
intersection of Silver Spur and Hawthorne.
Issues of concern have been raised to Staff related to the placement of temporary signs at
all three of the locations approved by the City Council in 2008.As a result,Staff is bringing
this item to the City Council for discussion and direction.
DISCUSSION
The City approval process and regulations that allow noncommercial organizations to place
special event signs or other temporary signs in the public right-of-way are contained in
RPVMC Section 17.76.050.D.4.The regulations are as follows:
4.Temporary special event or other signs for noncommercial organizations
may be placed in the public right-of-way,pursuant to the follOWing
guidelines:
a.For purposes of this section,special event signs shall be limited to
12-15
Update:Special Event Signet
December 7,2010
signs which advertise a specific activity occurring on a particu/ardate;
b.For special event signs,written request on forms provided by the city
shall be made to the director no sooner than ninety days prior to the
special event;
c.Signs shall only be placed at locations in the right-of-way identified
and designated by the director;
d.Signs shall be erected in a manner prescribed by the director so as
not to pose a traffic hazard and/or impede pedestrian or vehicular
access within the public right-of-way;
e.For special event signs,each noncommercial organization sha/l be
limited to the placement oftwo temporary signs within the city's public
rlgh~o~wayperspecmlevent
f.For signs other than special event signs,each noncommercial
organization shall be limited to the placement oftwo such signs within
the city's right-of-way per year.
g.Each sign shall not exceed thirty-two square feet In size;
h.Each sign shall be displaced for a maximum of thirty days;
i.Special event signs shall be removed witMn forty-eight hours of the
event's conclusion;and
j.Applicants shall submit to the director a deposit fee established by the
city council in the form of cash,check or money order as security for
the placement of signs in accordance to these guidelines.Failure to
erect and/or maintain the signs in accordance with guidelines (b)
through (h)ofthis subsection (SUbsections (D)(4)(b)through (D)(4)(h)
of this section)shall result in the forfeiture of the securitydeposif.
Community Development Department Staff review sign placement requests on a first come
first served basis and issue sign permits to organizations that meet the placement criteria.
Once approved for a specific time period at a specific location,the organization is then
responsible for affixing their temporary sign to the existing support poles at the sign display
location and removing the sign when their approved time period has expired.Staff
manages the program in a way that ensures that not more than the two signs are displayed
at each location.The Department's Code Enforcement Staff becomes involved if signs are
not removed when required.Since June 2010,Staff has approved the placement of 22
signs by 20 different community organizations (see attached list).
Since Staff began approving temporary signs at the three new locations in June 2010,
some issues of concern have.been brought to staff's attention.These issues of concern
are discussed below.
12-16
Update:Special Event Signs
December 7,2010
Public Concerns with the Approved Sign Locations
Silver Spur Road/Deep Valley Drive (across from Post Office)
Shortly after the first signs were displayed at this location,Staff was contacted by the City
of Rolling Hills Estates expressing concerns with the visual appearance of allowing
temporary signs at this location.Subsequently,Rolling Hills Estates notified Staff that the
banner locations were actually within their public right-ot-way and asked that the support
poles be removed.In response,Staff immediately voided the location for continued use
until the matter could be further reviewed.Before Public Works Staff could go out to
remove the support posts,the banner posts were removed and the site was modified to its
previous condition by an unknown entity.
Palos Verdes Drive South/Palos Verdes Drive East
Earlier this year,Staff received a complaint from a nearby resident expressing concerns
with the signs placed at this location.The main concern was that the signs detracted from
the visual appearance of the area.After it was explained that the location was approved by
the City Council in 2008 no further communication on the matter was received from the
resident.
Hawthorne Boulevard/Locklenna Lane (Corner of Hesse Park)
The inclusion of a portion of Hesse Park as an approved temporary sign location has
raised a couple of issues of concern with some members of the pUblic.First,allowing twl)
temporary signs for community organizations at this location along with temporary signs
placed by the City'S Recreation &Parks Department to adverse upcoming City events has
prompted complaints that there is an unsightly proliferation of temporary signs at this
location.Secondly,the allowance of community organizations to place signs for events
that are not related to Hesse Park or the City at RPV on a City park site has caused some
confusion.
Lack of Ideal Sign Placement Locations
In addition to the specific complaints about the three locations descrjbed above,Staff has
also received complaints from community organizations regarding the lack of visibility of
these locations in comparison to the previously used locations which consisted of the
intersections of Hawthorne/Silver Spur and Hawthorne/lndian Peak.Staff recognizes that
the three sites identified by Staff and approved for use by the City Council in 2008 have
their limitations.However,based on the city-wide site evaluation performed in 2008 that
was used to identity the 3 current sign locations (Which remains valid today),Staff does not
believe that there are any other viable locations for temporary sign placement within the
12-17
Update:Special Event Signs
December 7,2010
public right-of-way.While there may be opportunities for temporary sign placement on
some city owned properties,park sites or within traffic medians,Staff does not recommend
pursuing said sites as they will likely create their own set of concerns.
Inability to Regulate Sign Content
While the current Municipal Code regulations for allowing temporary signs in the public
right-of-way allow the City to review sign placement requests to ensure consistency with
the regulations,the City cannot approve or deny requests based on sign content.In other
words,if a controversial group with a controversial message wishes to display a sign with a
message that may be offensive to some members of the public,the City must approve the
sign request provided it meets the approval criteria in the Municipal Code.
CONCLUSION
While the opportunity for noncommercial community organizations to provide no-cost
advertisement for special events through the placement of temporary banner signs at
designated locations within the City's public rights-of-way has been available for quite
some time,lack of appropriate and adequate locations,as well as resident concerns has
made the provision of this service problematic.Additionally,the Municipal Code does not
allow for regulation of banner content,which could have the potential for further issues.As
such,Staff is recommending that the City Council initiate a Code Amendment to remove
RPVMC Section 17:78.050.D.4 and thus eliminate the placement of temporary special
event signs and other non-commercial signs in the pUblic right-of-way.
Initiation of the Code Amendment means that a public hearing will be set before the
Planning Commission to consider the proposed amendment.In addition to a published
newspaper notice,public notice of the hearing will be prOVided to all the community
organizations which have received approval this year to place signs in the right-of-way
along with all property owners within 500 feet of the three currently approved sign
placement locations.The Planning Commission's recommendation on the proposed code
amendment will then be forwarded to the City Council to consider at another duly noticed
public hearing.At that time,the City Council will have the final decision on the matter.
'ALTERNATIVES
In addition to Staffs recommendation,below are alternatives for City Council to consider:
1.)Keep the current program as currently codified and keep the three current sites as
sign locations with direction that the support poles for the Silver Spur/Deep Valley
location be moved off of the City of RHE's public right-of-way and that no other City
event signs be placed at the three locations;or
j 12-18
Update:Special Event Signs
December 7,2010
2.)Eliminate the Silver Spur/Deep Valley and Hesse Park locations,thus leaving the
PVDS/PVDE location as the sole location for the placement of two community
organization signs and initiate a code amendment to allow a quicker turnover of
signs at this location;or
3.)Temporarily suspend the approval of any new sign permit applications and direct
Staff to identify additional sign placement locations on any other city-owned
properties or park sites.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Unpermitted Signs at Hawthorne and Silver Spur
Although banners are no longer permitted by the City to be erected at the intersection of
Silver Spur and Hawthorne,banners are still being hung without permission on the
privately-owned fence located at the southwest corner of the intersection.Because the
fence that the banners are attached to is a private fence on private property,the City's
Code Enforcement Staff must contact the property owner to remove said signs.Staff is
currently in the process of trying to obtain written permission from the property owner for
Staff to remove the unpermitted signs whenever they are placed on the fence.
Banners at City Parks for City Sponsored Events
Periodically,the City's Recreation and Parks Department and/or the Public Works
Department place banner type signs at one or more of the City's park sites or at City Hall
advertising an upcoming City sponsored or City co-sponsored event.The placement of
these types of banner Signs is not regulated through the program described above since
these signs are installed by City Staff on City property for City sponsored or co-sponsored
events.However,because there are no current regulations or policies regarding the
placement of such signs on City properties,Recreation and Parks Staff proposes to draft a
City Council policy on this issue for the Council's review and discussion at a future meeting.
FISCAL IMPACT
There is no fiscal impact resulting from Staff's recommendation.
Attachments:
•City Council Staff Report from June 3,2008
•E-mails and correspondence related to the issue
12-19
CITY OF
MEMORANDUM
TO:
FROM:
DATE:
SUBJECT:
REVIEWED:
HONORABLE MAYOR &MEMBERS OF THE CITY COUNCIL
JOEL ROJAS,DIRECTOR OF PLANNING,BUILDING &
CODE ENFORCEMENT
JUNE 3,2008
TEMPORARY SPECIAL EVENT SIGNS IN THE PUBLIC
RIGHT-OF-WAY
CAROLYN LEHR,CITY MANAGER
Staff Coordinator:Abigail Harwell,Assistant Planner
RECOMMENDATION
Approve three (3)new locations for the placement of temporary special event signs in
the public right-of-way and/or city owned property.
BACKGROUND
The City's Municipal Code allows temporary special event signs or other signs for
noncommercial organizations to be placed in the public right-of-way with city approval (see
attached section 17.76.050.0.4).Typically,it is non-profit organizations or other
community groups that take advantage of this Code provision to advertise upcoming
special events.In order to avoid the proliferation of such signs,the Code establishes
numerous regulations for special event signs placed within the public right-of-way.These
.regulations include but are not limited to restricting the size of each sign to 32 square feet,
limiting the time a sign can be displayed (30 days),limiting their location and other such
criteria which provide a protocol for which to approve temporary sign permits.
Although at one time,there were multiple locations in the city where temporary special
event signs could be displayed,currently there is only one location where such signs are
allowed.The location is the fence located at the northeast corner of Hawthorne Boulevard
and Silver Spur Road.Due to the loss of other locations,Staff currently allows four (4)
signs to be placed at this location.Recently,Staff became aware that the
12-20
PubJic Right-of-Way Sign Locations
June 3,2008 .
Hawthorne/Silver Spur location may no longer be available as Public Works Staff has
confirmed that the fence,which the signs are affixed to,is on private property.'As a result
of this revelation and to accommodate the number of requests received from community
groups,Staff is asking the City Council to approve three new locations within the city right-
of-way and/or property where such temporary special event signs can be displayed.
DISCUSSION
The placement of special event signs in the public right-of-way is regulated by the
Department of Planning,Building and Code Enforcement.On average,since 2002,the
department processes approximately 45 requests for s'igns in the right-of-way per year.
The applicants are typically local organizations that include volunteer clubs,religious
groups,and school or educational organizations.As the Code only allows noncommercial
organizations to place temporary signs within the public right-of-way,this service is offered
with no fee or deposit.Signs are approved by Staff on a first-come,first-served basis and
it is the responsibility of the applicant to put up and take down the approved sign.
Historically,there have been at least four approved locations within the city for the
placement of temporary special event signs,all along major intersections where said signs
could be affixed to existing fencing.However,for a number of reasons the historically used
locations have become unusable for sign display.For example,when development ofwhat
is now the Trump National project began,the use of the southeast corner of Palos Verdes
Drive South and Forrestal was eliminated for sign display.Likewise,when the
development of what is now Oceanfront Estates began,the use of the intersection of Palos
Verdes Drive South and Hawthorne Boulevard was eliminated for sign display.
Furthermore,approximately 3 years ago,the resident whose rear yard slope abuts the
intersection of Hawthorne Boulevard and Indian Peak Road raised concerns that the fence
on which the signs were being affixed to is actually on private property.Upon investigation,
Public Works Staff confirmed that the existing fence is a privately owned fence and as a
result,Planning,Building and Code Enforcement Staff stopped allowing signs to be placed
at the location.
Currently,the only location where the City permits the placement of temporary special
event signs is at the southeast corner of Hawthorne Boulevard and Silver Spur Road.Due
to the loss of other locations as described earlier,Staff has been allowing the placement of
.four temporary signs at the Hawthorne/Silver Spur location.Recently,Public Works Staff
investigated the possibility of improving the visual appearance of the southeast corner of
the intersection with recycling monies.In investigating this issue,Public Works Staff
confirmed that the existing chain link fence which is used to display temporary signs is
actually on private property.e
With the loss of this location,Staff scouted the city for other possible locations for
temporary sign placement.In addition to looking for locations along unused street right-of-
12-21
Public Right~of~WaySign Locations
June 3,2008
way,Staff also looked at possible locations on city owned property.Based on the number
of requests received from community groups per year,including the requests that are
turned away due to unavailability,Staff believes that allowing six (6)signs to be placed in
the city will accommodate the community need.Furthermore,to avoid the unattractive
appearance of multiple signs at one location,Staff believes that signs should be limited to
no more than 2 signs at a particular location.As a result,Staff set out to identify three (3)
possible sign locations that each could accommodate two signs.In order to eliminate the
unauthorized display of signs,Staff purposely looked for locations that could accommodate
only the signs approved the city.To achieve this,none of the scouted sites currently has
available fencing on which to affix signs.Therefore,Staff is also proposing to install three
permanent 5 foot high wooden or metal posts to accommodate two 4'x 8'signs,side~by~
side (see attached Exhibit D diagram).In this manner,only city approved signs will be
accommodated by the posts.
Provided below is a discussion of the proposed event sign locations.
Palos Verdes Drive South and Palos Verdes Drive East
As part of the re-alignment of the Palos Verdes Drive South/Palos Verdes Drive East
intersection required by the development of the new Trump National project,a substantial
amount of unused right-of-way has become available on the north side of the Palos Verdes
Drive South roadway,just west of the Palos Verdes Drive East intersection.Two 4'x 8'
signs can be accommodated in this location facing the oncoming traffic traveling
westbound along Palos Verdes Drive South (see attached Exhibit A).As Palos Verdes
Drive South is one of the main thoroughfares used to enter the City from San Pedro,the
location is highly visible to the westbound traffic on Palos Verdes Drive South.The sign
posts will be installed in a manner that maximizes the signs visibility but creates no traffic
safety issues.
Hawthorne Boulevard and Locklenna Lane
A second option for temporary sign placement is to locate two signs on a knoll located at
Hesse Park,on the northwest corner of Hawthorne Boulevard and Locklenna Lane.The
site is visible to oncoming traffic traveling north along Hawthorne Boulevard as well as cars
stopped to turn left onto Locklenna Lane (see attached Exhibit B).The specific location of
the posts will be in an area of the park that has minimal landscaping and will be installed in
a manner that allows for maximum visibility of the temporary sign but creates no traffic
visibility issues.
Silver Spur Road and Crensl1aw Boulevard
The City owns an up-sloping,undeveloped piece of property on the north side of Silver
Spur Road just west of Crenshaw Boulevard that borders the City of Rolling Hills Estates.
12-22
Public Right-of-Way Sign Locations
June 3,2008
Staff believes that two signs could be placed to face traffic stopped at Deep Valley Drive as
well as traffic traveling westbound along Silver Spur Road (see attached Exhibit C).The
specific location of the posts will be installed in a manner that allows the temporary signs
maximum visibility to cars traveling along Silver Spur and down Deep Valley Drive,
including those who frequent the U.S.Postal Office located on the southeast corner.
FISCAL IMPACT
In order to accommodate two,4'x 8'sized signs at each location,Staff is recommending
that three posts be strategically placed so that the approved signs could span the distance
between,haVing two signs next to each other.This method for hanging signs would not
only have a minimal visual Impact,but would also work to curb the posting of non-permitted
signs.According to an estimate from the Public Works Department,the cost for the
acquisition and placement of each steel pole would be approximately $220.00.With a total
of nine (9)poles required (three poles for each of the three locations),a total of $1,980.00
would be required for the establishment of new locations available for the posting of
signage.If the City Council approves the 3 sign locations as proposed by Staff,this cost
will be included in the City's Fiscal Year 2008-2009 budget.
CONCLUSION
In order to continue providing an opportunity for community groups to advertise upcoming
special events,Staff is recommending that the City Council approve three new locations for
the placement of temporary special event signs in the pu blic right-of-way and/or city owned
property.The 3 locations identified by Staff would allow signs to be displayed on posts
installed by Staff in a manner that maximizes the signs'visibility but create no traffic safety
issues
ALTERNATIVES
In addition to Staff's recommendation,below are alternatives for City Council to consider:
1.}Approve less than 3 locations for the placement of special event signs;or
2.)Approve less signs at each identified location;or
3.}Suggest other locations or direct Staff to identify other possible locations in lieu of
one or more of the locations identified by Staff;or
4.}Prohibit any such signs from being placed in the right-of-way and/or public property.
12-23
Public Right-of-Way Sign Locations
June 3,2008
Attachments:
•Municipal Code section 17.76.050.0.4 -Sign Permit
•Exhibit IIA"-Photos of location for potential signs at Palos Verdes Drive South and
Palos Verdes Drive East
•Exhibit "B"-Photos of location for potential signs at corner of Hawthorne
Boulevard and Locklenna Lane
•Exhibit "C"-Photos of location for potential signs at Silver Spur Road and
Crenshaw Boulevard
•Exhibit liD"-Diagram of the proposed setup for each of the sign locations
12-24
Public Right-of-Way Sign Locations
June 3,2008
17.76.050·Sign permit
D.Signs Allowed Without a Permit
4.Temporary special event or other signs for noncommercial organizations may be
placed in the public right-of-way,pursuant to the following guidelines:
a.For purposes of this section,special event signs shall be limited to signs which
advertise a specific activity occurring on a particular date;
b.For special event signs,written request on forms provided by the city shall be
made to the director no sooner than ninety days prior to the special event;
c.Signs shall only be placed at locations in the right-of-way identified and
designated by the director;
d.Signs shall be erected in a manner prescribed by the director so as not to pose a
traffic hazard and/or impede pedestrian or vehicular access within the pUblic
right-of-way;
e.For special event signs,each noncommercial organization shall be limited to the
placement of two temporary signs within the city's public right-of-way per special
event;
f.For signs other than special event signs,each noncommercial organization shall
be limited to the placement of two such signs within the city's right-of-way per
year.
g.Each sign shan not exceed thirty-two square feet in area;
h.Each sign shall be displayed for a maximum of thirty days;
i.Special event signs shall be removed within forty-eight hours of the event's
conclusion;and
j.Applicants shall submit to the director a deposit fee established by the city
council in the form of cash,check or money order as security for the placement
of signs in accordance to these guidelines.Failure to erect and/or maintain the
signs in accordance with guidelines (b)through (h)of this subsection
(SUbsections (D)(4)(b)through (D)(4)(h)of this section)shall result in the
forfeiture of the security deposit.
12-25
Public Right-of-Way 'Sign Locatiot1s
June 3,2008
Exhibit -IAJI
Photos of tocation for potentlalsign:$at
PaJos Verdes Drive South and Palos Verdes Drive East
Aerial picture·..proposed area (shs(jedJ
12-26
PUbneRight-o'~Way Sign looations
June 3,2008 .
.Exhibit '''B''
Photos of location for potential signs at comer of
Hawthorne Boutevardand Locklenna lane
rlalli>iotute·of proposed area (shsdedJ
Plcturetaken from southwest comer of Haw.tl1omeBlvd.and
LocklennaLan$t towards Hesse Park
12-27
Public Right-of-Way Sign L.oeatiorl;S
June 3t 2008 ...
Exhibit uC't
Photos of location for potential signs at
snv~r Spur Road and Crenshaw Boulevard
Aerlalpictureofptoposed area (shaded)
Picture tak-en from Silver Spur RQad.alll1ee west (DeepVaJfey
Drive 1S to the taft)
12-28
Public Right-of-Way Sign Locations
June 3,2008
Exhibit "0"
Diagram of proposed sign layout
..~-----8 feet -----+~.......-----8 feet ----~~.....-~.---
l.-I.-I.-
r
12-29
Applicants for Temporary Signs since 6/9/1 0:
1.New Tang Dynasty Shen Yun Performing Arts
2.Fit N Fun I Go Baby Learn Summer Camp
3.Peninsula Committee Children's Hospital Annual Portuguese Bend
National Horse Show
4.Palos Verdes Iranian Children &Youth Cultural Society Registration
5.Providence TrinityCare Hospice Foundation's Sunday by the Sea Food
and Wine Tasting Gala
6.Palos Verdes Concours D'Elegance
7.YMCA Harbor Area 5K RunJWalk
8.Las Madrecitas Fundraiser honoring Donald Trump
9.Peninsula Symphony Association concert at Rolling Hills Covenant
Church
10.First Church of Christ "healing"seminar
11.Palos Verdes Women's Club Books and Authors'luncheon
12.Kids Music N Motion event
13.Palos Verdes High School theatre production
14.Dance Peninsula Ballet production of "The Nutcracker"
15.West Basin Municipal Water District Harvest Festival
16.Vista's for Children Fashion Show and Boutique
17.Palos Verdes Ballet production of "The Nutcracker"
18.Palos Verdes Peninsula Chamber of Commerce
19.Palos Verdes Peninsula Girls Softball League {signs at two locations}
20.St.John Fisher School Open House
12-30
From:John Freeman [mailto:jrfree@cox.net]
sent:Tuesday,October 26,2010 7:48 AM
To:'Carolyn Lehr'
CC:parks@rpv.com;cc@rpv.com;Julie Peterson
Subject:RE:Sign Pollution at Hesse Park
Hello Carolyn.
I'm sure there are lots of worthwhile community groups and I'm not against any of them.I was
surprised to see the Christian Science Church service event advertisement at Hesse Park.
Their church is in PV Estates,not RPV,so how does that qualify?
And I support the Peninsula Symphony as well.A fine organization.But their concerts are in
the Rolling Hills Estates Covenant Church,not in RPV.
And the Promenade on the Peninsula race ran a course on Deep Valley Drive near the RHE
shopping center,not In RPV.
Bottom line,none of these events seem to have anything to do with Hesse Park or are even
geographically related to Hesse Park.
Carolyn,you know I'm a big supporter of our parks,especially Hesse park.Maybe I just don't
understand the staff approval process,municipal code,or overall policy regulating signs at
specific RPV parks.
Advertising "Shakespeare by the Sea","Pet Adoption".or "We Want your Input"seems
appropriate at Hesse Park,but I don't see the other connections.Do you?
John Freeman
From:Carolyn Lehr [mallto:c1ehr@rpv.com]
sent:Monday,october 25,20105:17 PM
To:'John Freeman';'Julie Peterson'
Cc:cc@rpv.com
Subject:RE:Sign Pollution at Hesse Park
John,I have forwarded your message to Recreation and Parks to ask their vigilance on both the types of
banners we post,as well as timeliness.We will try to be sensitive to your message,but the requests from
community groups are many and the venues for posting are very limited.
Thank you,
CCt¥o{yvv Lehr
City Manager
If4 City of Rancho Palos Verdes
30940 Hawthorne Blvd.
..12-31
Rancho Palos Verdes,CA 90275
clehr@rpv.com •(310)544-5202
This e-mail message contains information belonging to the City of Rancho Palos Verdes,which may be
privileged,confidential and/or protected from disclosure.The Information is intended only for use of the
individual or entity named.Unauthorized dissemination,distribution,or copying is strictly prohibited.If
you received this email in error,or are not an intended recipient,please notify the sender immediately.
Thank you for your assistance and cooperation.
From:John Freeman [mailto:jrfree@cox.net]
Sent:Monday,October 25,20104:43 PM
To:Julie Peterson
Cc:cc@rpv.com
Subject:Sign Pollution at Hesse Park
Hello Julie,
J live near Hesse Park and I've noticed an Increasing frequency of large plastic signs placed at
the entrances of the park for passing motorists.As you know,Hesse Park is one of our most
beautiful parks with great ocean views and vistas.However lately it has become "Billboard
Park".Today there are signs for a Christian Science Healing service and the PV Symphony.
Last week it was PV Promenade on the Peninsula 5K walk/run.Before that was Palos Verdes
Concours,and on and on.
My point/question is what are we promoting at RPV,"Billboard Parks"or ocean vistas?Is there
any end to this?Frankly I (and I suspect most others)didn't move to RPV to see weekly
changing billboard sized signs at our Hesse Park comer.We want to see the trees and the
ocean.
Please help me understand the increased usage of signs at our beautiful parks.For 30 years
we have managed just fine without eye jarring huge signs.Maybe I can understand if it is a
RPV park event at Hesse Park being announced,but we don't need this to be a forum for any
and all other ads.
What can you (we)do to put a stop to this sign pollution?
John Freeman
Rancho Palos Verdes
12-32
Joel Rojas
From:Carolyn Lehr lclehr@rpv.com]
Sent:Tuesday,October 26,20106:16 PM
To:'Joel Rojas'
Subject:FW:signs at Hawthorne and Silver Spur
Relating to our discussion this morning.
Thank you,
Caro{yY\l LehY
City Manager
Il.'City of Rancho Palos Verdes
30940 Hawthorne Blvd.
Rancho Palos Verdes,CA 90275
clehr@rpv.com •(310)544·5202
This e-mail message contains information belonging to the City of Rancho Palos Verdes,which may be
privileged.confidential and/or protected from disclosure.The information is intended only for use of the individual
or entity named.Unauthorized dissemination.distribution,or copying is strictly prohibited.If you received this
email in error,or are not an intended recipient,please notify the sel1der immediately.Thank you for your
assistance and cooperation.
From:steve Wolowicz [mailto:stevew@rpv.com]
Sent:Tuesday,October 26,201010:58 AM
To:'carolyn Lehr'
Cc:'carolynn Petru'
Subject:FW:signs at Hawthorne and Silver Spur
Carolyn,
During the last Mayors'luncheon RHE Mayor Addleman commented about the appearance of
the ·fence with attached signs on the South-East corner on the intersection of Hawthorne and
Silver Spur.We both recalled that the fence at that location is controlled (perhaps owned)by
our City.I think this is correct because several years ago our City Staff had issued a report
dealing with sign locations throughout the City and this site was included in the report (I could
be wrong on the ownership of the underlying property).He observed that the fence and hillside
did look a bit shabby and could probably benefit from some maintenance.It was my
understanding that the nature of signs at that location were to be for community
announcements (such as events at the High School and other civic announcements (for any
City requesting or just attaching a sign;it was not intended for commercial signs (such as one
that is there now)or for political purposes.Since I am not sure if Public Works or another
department Is responsible for this location I am sending this to you to be allocated to the
11/30/2010
}12-33
appropriate person.
Thanks,
Steve
Steve Wolowicz
Mayor
Rancho Palos Verdes
Phone 310-378-9911
email--stevew@rpv.com
11/30/2010
12-34
Date:Friday,October 29,2010,10:17 AM
Dear Carolyn,
So far the city of RPV has done nothing to remove the banners at the corner of
Silver Spur and Hawthorne.Now there are a lot of political signs up there which I
understand.At Rotary Girls Poker last evening,I brought up the subject,and they all
agree it looks terrible.The Dominos Pizza banner is still up there,and another black
sign which I cannot figure out what it is.I called public works today,and she just took
my complaint.I am about to take it upon myself and cut down the signs and bring them to
city hall.As you can tell I am on a missionl If the Concours and other non-profits can't
put their signs up there to promote their events,these illegal signs should not be
allowed to advertise either.
As a longtime resident of RPV and now PVE I consider all of the Peninsula my home
that I love.
Thanks for your help on this.
Mary Jane Schoenheider
Publisher Peninsula People
Phone:310-372-4611 Ext 121
Direct:424-212-6612
Fax:424-212-6788
Email:penpeople@easyreader.info
~http://us.mc810.mail.yahoo.com/mc/compose?to=penpeople@easyreader.info>
Become a Fan on Facebook:~http://www.facebook.com/EasyReaderNews>
http://www.facebook.com/EasyReaderNews
<http://www.facebook.com/EasyReaderNews>
Follow us on Twitter:http://www.twitter.com/EasyReaderNews
<http://www.twitter.com/EasyReaderNews>
http://www.easyreadernews.com <http://www.easyreadernews.com/>
2
1 12-35
Mayor Long called a brief recess from 9:25 P.M.to 9:37 P.M.
PAUSE TO CONSIDER THE REMAINDER OF THE AGENDA:
Code Amendment Initiation to Eliminate or Amend the Current Program that
Allows Non-Commercial Organizations to Place Temporary Special Event Signs
or Other Temporary Signs in the City's Rights-of-Way
City Clerk Morreale reported that there were two requests to speak regarding this item.
Assistant Planner Harwell provided a brief report and PowerPoint presentation
regarding the current program allowing non-commercial organizations to place
temporary special event signs and banners in the City's Rights-of-Way.
John Freeman,Rancho Palos Verdes,stated that the proliferation of signs is an
important issue for many residents,since the City has evolved from having many open
spaces to limited locations for the placement of signs.He reported on his two concerns
regarding the placement of signs at Hesse Park:1)the park is for the enjoyment of the
natural environment;and,2)the numerous signs advertising events that are not in the
City of Rancho Palos Verdes.He concluded that when one drives by a park,he wants
to see the park,trees and beautiful ocean,not numerous signs.
Norbert Nastanski,Rancho Palos Verdes,stated that he concurs with staffs
recommendation and noted his concerns with the large and out of place signs at Hesse
Park.He suggested that the City discontinue the use of two side-by-side signs at the
corner of Hawthorne and Locklenna.
Councilman Stern moved,seconded by Councilman Wolowicz,to approve the staff
recommendation to suspend the approval of any newtemporary banner sign
applications and initiate a code amendment process involving fully noticed public
hearings before the Planning Commission and City Council to eliminate the program
that allows non-commercial organizations to place temporary special event signs or
other signs in the City's rights-of-way.
The motion passed on the following roll call vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
Campbell,Misetich,Stern,Wolowicz,and Mayor Long
None
None
. .ation of Election
Councilman Wolowicz mo ~:~~~~;~g~~:::~report and secon recommendatIon .
A RE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
City Council Minutes
December 7,2010
Page 8 of 10
12-36
To whom it may concern:
Rancho Palos Verdes City Hall
Hawthorne Blvd.
RPV,CA 90275
RECEIVED
FEB 012011
PLANNING.BUILDING AND
CODE ENFORCEMENTJanuary30,2011
I was just informed that the City is
thinking about not allowing non-
profit organizations the ~bility to
hang banners up in Ran9ho Palos
Verdes..
As a volunteer for the American
Cancer Society and its Relay for Life
event,this is very disturbing.It has
been difficult getting the word out
here on the hill for the 8 years that
we have been doing the event and if
we can't hang a couple of banners
up,that will make it even harder.
The Relays are the signature event ofthe American Cancer Society and the money raised
goes to research to find a cure for all types of cancers.Some money also goes to local
outreach programs for those battling cancer right here in our community.It is very
important for us to be able to attract attention to our event.The Relay is for the entire
Palos Verdes Peninsula community.
Our committee hopes that you will reconsider the banning of banners and allow groups
that do so much for the community,to continue to adverti~e..I have lived here in RPV
since 1969 and it seems that our close community spirit has been eroding a little over the
years.We have so much to be thankful for here in Palos Verdes and the charitable and
non-profit organizations should be supported and encouraged,in my humble opinion.
One ofthe slogans for the Relay for Life is "Hope"and we hope that the ban on banners
is not enacted.Thank you for your consideration in this matter.
Sincerely,
~~~.\~
Rosemarie Buehler Kolin,Publicity Chairman,Rafile Co-Chair and Cancer Survivor
mskjpk@msn.com (310-541-2608)"
,...12-37
Page 10fl
Abigail Harwell
From:Katherine Gould [kgould@pvld.org]
Sent:Monday,January 31,2011 7:48 PM
To:abigailh@rpv.com;Carolyn Lehr;Joel Rojas
SUbject:thank you
Abigail,
Thank you for taking the time to meet with the Chamber of Commerce Executive Committee this
evening.As you could tell we are concerned about the possible loss of an important promotional venue
for our non-profit members and for the Chamber,and it was very helpful to gain an understanding of the
issues that have led to the Planning Commission considering eliminating the code section related to
banners.We do intend to provide comments to the Commission.
Regards,
Kathy Gould,Director
Palos Verdes Library District
701 Silver Spur Rd.
Rolling Hills Estates,CA 90274
tel 310-377-9584 x200
email kgould@pvld.org
website www.pvld.org
2/1/2011 12-38
From:John Freeman [mallto:jrfree@cox.net]
Sent:Tuesday,October 26,2010 7:48 AM
To:'carolyn Lehr'
ec:parks@rpv.com;cc@rpv.com;Julie Peterson
Subject:RE:Sign Pollution at Hesse Park
Hello Carolyn,
I'm sure there are lots of worthwhile community groups and I'm not against any of them.I was
surprised to see the Christian Science Church service event advertisement at Hesse Park.
Their church is in PV Estates,not RPV,so how does that qualify?
And I support the Peninsula Symphony as well.A fine organization.But their concerts are in
the Rolling Hills Estates Covenant Church,not in RPV.
And the Promenade on the Peninsula race ran a course on Deep Valley Drive near the RHE
shopping center,not In RPV.
Bottom line,none of these events seem to have anything to do with Hesse Park or are even
geographically related to Hesse Park.
Carolyn,you know I'm a big supporter of our parks,especially Hesse Rark.Maybe I just don't
understand the staff approval process,municipal code,or overall policy regulating signs at
specific RPV parks.
Advertising "Shakespeare by the Sea","Pet Adoption",or ·We Want your Input"seems
appropriate at Hesse Park,but I don't see the other connections.Do you?
John Freeman
From:Carolyn Lehr [mallto:c1ehr@rpv.com]
Sent:Monday,October 25,20105:17 PM
To:'John Freeman';'Julie Peterson'
ec:cc@rpv.com
Subject:RE:Sign Pollution at Hesse Park
John,I have forwarded your message to Recreation and Parks to ask their vigilance on both the types of
banners we post,as well as timeliness.We will try to be sensitive to your message,but the requests from
communIty groups are many and the venues for posting are very limited.
Thank you,
car-00Jvv Le:hr
City Manager
II City of Rancho Palos Verdes
30940 Hawthorne Blvd.
12-39
Rancho Palos Verdes,CA 90275
clehr@rpv.com·(310)544-5202
This e-mail message contains information belonging to the City of Rancho Palos Verdes,which may be
privileged,confidential and/or protected from disclosure.The information is Intended only for use of the
individual or entity named.Unauthorized dissemination,distribution,or copying Js strictly prohibited.If
you received this email in error,or are not an intended recipient,please notify the sender immediately.
Thank you for your assistance and cooperation.
From:John Freeman [mallto:jrfree@cox.net]
sent:Monday,October 25,2010 4:43 PM
To:Julie Peterson
Cc:cc@rpv.com
Subject:Sign Pollution at Hesse Park
Hello Julie,
I live near Hesse Park and I've noticed an Increasing frequency of large plastic signs placed at
the entrances of the park for passing motorists.As you know I Hesse Park is one of our most
beautiful parks with great ocean views and vistas.However lately it has become "Billboard
Park".Today there are signs for a Christian Science Healing service and the PV Symphony.
Last week it was PV Promenade on the Peninsula 5K walk/run.Before that was Palos Verdes
Concours,and on and on.
My point/question is what are we promoting at RPV,"Billboard Parks"or ocean vistas?Is there
any end to this?Frankly I (and I suspect most others)didn't move to RPV to see weekly
changing billboard sized signs at our Hesse Park corner.We want to see the trees and the
ocean.
Please help me understand the increased usage of signs at our beautiful parks.For 30 years
we have managed just fine without eye jarring huge signs.Maybe I can understand if it is a
RPV park event at Hesse Park being announced,but we don't need this to be a forum for any
and all other ads.
What can you (we)do to put a stop to this sign pollution?
John Freeman
Rancho Palos Verdes
12-40
Joel Rojas
Froin:Carolyn Lehr [dehr@rpv.com]
Sent:Tuesday,October 26,20106:16 PM
To:'Joel Rojas'
Subject:FW:signs at Hawthorne and Sliver Spur
Relating to our discussion this morning.
Thank you,
Ccuro-0'vv Lehr
City Manager
~City of Rancho Palos Verdes
30940 Hawthorne Blvd.
Rancho Palos Verdes,CA 90275
clehr@rpv.com •(310)544·5202
This e-mail message contains Information belonging to the City of Rancho Palos Verdes,which may be
privileged.confidential and/or protected from disclosure.The Information Is intended only for use of the individual
or entity named.Unauthorized dissemination,distribution.or copying is strictly prohibited.If you received this
email in error,or are not an intended recipient.please notify the sender immediately.Thank you for your
assistance and cooperation.
From:Steve Wolowlcz [mallto:stevew@rpv.com]
Sent:Tuesday,October 26,2010 10:58 AM
To:'Carolyn Lehr'
Cc:'Carolynn Petru'
Subject:FW:signs at Hawthorne and Silver Spur
Carolyn,
During the last Mayors'luncheon RHE Mayor Addleman commented about the appearance of
the fence with attached signs on the South-East corner on the Intersection of Hawthorne and
Silver Spur.We both recalled that the fence at that location is controlled (perhaps owned)by
our City.I think this is correct because several years ago our City Staff had issued a report
dealing with sign locations throughout the City and this site was included in the report (I could
be wrong on the ownership of the underlying property).He observed that the fence and hillside
did look a bit shabby and could probably benefit from some maintenance.It was my
understanding that the nature of signs at that location were to be for community
announcements (such as events at the High School and other civic announcements (for any
City requesting or just attaching a sign;it was not intended for commercial signs (such as one
that is there now)or for political purposes.Since I am not sure if Public Works or another
department is responsible for this location I am sending this to you to be allocated to the
11/30/2010
12-41
appropriate person.
Thanks,
Steve
Steve Wolowicz
Mayor
Rancho Palos Verdes
Phone 310-378-9911
email-stevew@rpv.com
11130/2010
12-42
Date:Friday,October 29,2010,10:17 AM
Dear Carolyn,
So far the city of RPV has done nothing to remove the banners at the corner of
Silver Spur and Hawthorne.Now there are a lot of political signs up there which I
understand.At Rotary Girls Poker last evening,I brought up the subject,and they all
agree it looks terrible.The Dominos Pizza banner is still up there,and another black
sign which I cannot figure out what it is.I called public works today,and she just took
my complaint.I am about to take it upon myself and cut down the signs and bring them to
city hall.As you can tell I am on a ,mission I If the concours and other non-profits can't
put their signs up there to promote their events,these illegal signs should not be
allowed to advertise either.
As a longtime resident of RPV and now PVE I consider all of the Peninsula my home
that I love.
Thanks for your help on this.
Mary Jane Schoenheider
Publisher Peninsula People
Phone:310-372-4611 Ext 121
Direct:424-212-6612
Fax:424-212-6788
Email:penpeople@easyreader.info
<http://us.mc810.mail.yahoo.com/mc/compose?to=penpeople@easyreader.info>
Become a Fan on Facebook:<http://www.facebook.com/EasyReaderNews>
http://www.facebook.com/EasyReaderNews
<http://www.facebook.com/EasyReaderNews>
Follow us on Twitter:http://www.twitter.com!EasyReaderNews
<http://www.twitter.com/EasyReaderNews>
http://www.easyreadernews.com <http://www.easyreadernews.com/>
2
12-43
4.Code Amendment for Temporary Sign Permits (Case No.ZON2011-00007)
Assistant Planner Harwell presented the staff report,explaining that in 2008 the City
Council approved three locations in the City to be used for the display of temporary
banner signs.However,once banners began to be displayed there were several
concerns that were brought to staff's attention.Due to the concerns associated with
each location and the unavailability of other viable public right-of-way locations,the City
Council initiated a code amendment at the request of staff to eliminate the existing
program and to suspend the issuance of temporary sign permits while this code
amendment is being processed.She stated that staff is requesting the Planning
Commission provide a recommendation to staff to be forwarded to the City Council for
final decision.
Commissioner Lewis asked about the signs placed at the corner of Hawthorne
Boulevard and Silver Spur and if that location is part of the sign program.
Assistant Planner Harwell explained that the fence at that corner is on private property
and any signs posted are a matter for code enforcement staff.
Commissioner Emenhiser asked,if the City were to not allow signs in the current
approved locations,where would these signs be allowed.
Deputy Director Pfost answered that signs that are non-city sponsored events would not
be permitted in the City's public rights-of-way.
Commissioner Emenhiser questioned if eliminating this program would then encourage
people to put up signs wherever they wanted to.
Deputy Director Pfost agreed that may happen,but it would then be a code enforcement
issue.
Commissioner Leon asked staff to review the signs allowed on private property without
a permit.
Assistant Planner Harwell read the Municipal Code section regarding signs on private
property,explaining the types of signs,the size,and the location allowed on the
property.
Commissioner Knight asked if public right-of-way also includes public land.
Assistant Planner Harwell answered that it does include public land.
Commissioner Knight felt that public right-of-way is different from public land,
referencing the city owned land above Portuguese Bend.
Planning Commission Minutes
Februarv 8.2011
12-44
Deputy Director Pfost stated that would be considered public land and/or public right-of-
way that the City could use to put city sponsored event signs on subject to approval
from the City Manager's office.
Commissioner Knight asked if language should be included in this Resolution that says
public lands and/or public right-of-way.
Deputy Director Pfost explained that issue was brought up at the City Council meeting
during the discussions during the code amendment initiation request,noting the
discussion regarding this issue in the staff report.He stated the Recreation and Parks
Department is putting together a policy to bring before the City Council that will address
that issue.
Commissioner Knight asked staff how Palos Verdes Estates and Rolling Hills Estates
handles this type of sign issue.
Assistant Planner Harwell explained that Rolling Hills Estates has several locations they
allow signs,but it is much more regulated in terms of color and size.She noted that
Palos Verdes Estates is also considering amending their sign program in a way that is
similar to this proposal.
Commissioner Knight noted that this code amendment would not affect signs on private
property and therefore felt that Section 2 of the Resolution should be clarified to say the
elimination of controversial signs on public property.He also noted the reference to
Section 0-4 in the language in Section C,subsection 6 of the Resolution needs to be
eliminated.
Commissioner Leon asked staff if there has ever been a situation where a charitable
organization has tried to put up an objectionable sign.
Deputy Director Pfost was not aware of any such situation.
Commissioner Leon asked if the current program costs the City money in terms of staff
time to administer the program.
Deputy Director Pfost answered that it costs the City money in terms of staff time to
issue the permit,but that is relatively insignificant.
Commissioner Leon questioned if signs in the public right-of-way constitute a problem
that needs to be fixed.
Commissioner Lewis asked if staff made any effort to locate new potential sites in which
to place signs.
Assistant Planner Harwell answered that staff had previously done a city-wide review in
regards to signs,and these were the three best locations identified by staff.
Planning Commission Minutes
February 8,201112-45
Commissioner Lewis noted the entrance to City Hall has a large area, and asked if that
would be a good site for signs.
Assistant Planner Harwell answered that the City Hall entrance could be a potential site.
She noted that because the City regularly uses that area to advertise City sponsored
events staff felt there may be an issue with too many signs at the location.She
explained staff is trying to restrict the number of signs at each location.
Chairman Tomblin explained that he has been and is currently involved in several
organizations that put signs up in this city and other cities on the peninsula.
Chairman Tomblin opened the public hearing,and there being no speakers,closed the
public hearing.
Commissioner Lewis felt the ability of the City to allow non-profit organizations to
communicate with the residents is a strong,important purpose that outweighs some of
the other interests,such as potential difficulty of enforcement and the unsightliness of
the site.
Commissioner Lewis moved to not accept staff's recommendations and instead
retain the existing mechanism to allow non-profit organizations to obtain a permit
and post signs at Hesse Park,the entrance to City Hall,and at corner of Palos
Verdes Drive East and Palos Verdes Drive South.Further,staff is directed to find
additional locations in the City where signs may be posted,seconded by
Commissioner Emenhiser.
Commissioner Emenhiser agreed with Commissioner Lewis'assessment and that
staff's recommendation is on the road to solving a problem that doesn't exist.He was
more concerned with the different organizations ability to communicate with the
residents than he was about some other groups whose language some may not prefer
to see having a sign.He felt the public good would best be expressed by continuing to
allow the signs.
Commissioner Leon stated he supported the motion,adding that it may be beneficial to
add language to the motion to direct staff to look at some aesthetic standards similar to
what Rolling Hills Estates has in terms of color,font,and size of banner.
Commissioner Lewis moved to amend his motion to add that staff look into
aesthetic standards for the banners in terms of color,size,and font,seconded by
Commissioner Emenhiser.
Commissioner Knight understood the concerns raised in the staff report,however he
also is supportive of the various organizations having the opportunity to notify the
community of events and fund raisers.He stated he was in support of the motion,noting
that he is not aware of any major issues or problems caused by the signs.
Planning Commission Minutes
February 8,2011
12-46
Chairman Tomblin stated he is also in support of the motion.He explained that in
Rolling Hills Estates they allow white signs with green letters and the sign design must
first be submitted to the City for approval.Secondly,Rolling Hills Estates will only allow
a banner of a certain dimension and that sign is attached to a built frame that includes a
plywood type backing.He noted that the City also limits the number of signs at any
given location.In stated he would like to see an expansion of locations for signs,
adding that he did not think Hesse Park was the best location for signs as the signs are
placed on a hill and appear much larger and more intrusive.
Commissioner Lewis added that Hesse Park and the entrance to City Hall are not ideal
locations,as they do imply a co-sponsorship or approval of some of these events.He
therefore would be open to eliminating these two sites if staff were able to find better
locations.He discussed the intersection of Palos Verdes Drive East and Miraleste
Drive,and asked staff if that fenced area is City property or private property.He felt that
if it is City property,it might be a potential site for signs
Deputy Director Pfost was not sure if that area was City or private property and that staff
would research the area.
The motion to not accept staff's recommendation and to retain the existing sign
program,with the direction to staff to locate additional or alternative sign sites
and the recommendation to adopt a uniform sign program that would require
specific font style,size and sign colors was approved,(5-0).
5.11 2011
Commissioner n moved to approve the minutes as pre ,seconded by
Commissioner Knr Approved,(4-1)with Commi .er Lewis abstaining since he
was absent from that eting.
6.
The meeting was adjourned at 9:25 p.m.
Planning Commission Minutes
February 8,2011
12-47
February 7,2011
TO:RPV Planning Commission
FROM:Peninsula Friends of the Library
RECEIVED
FEB 08 2011
pLANNING,BUILDING AND
CODE ENFORCEMENT
RE:Non-profit Organizations'Use of Special Event Signs in Rancho Palos
Verdes
It was brought to our attention that the Planning Commission is discussing,and
perhaps recommending to the City Council,that these signs not be permitted on
RPV property.
Our position is opposed to this restriction.
Rancho Palos Verdes is a community.We are extremely fortunate to have so
many residents who support our non-profits.Without these people and
organizations,RPV would not have nearly as many benefits to offer its residents.
These signs are vital for the organizations to inform residents of their activities.
It is too costly to mail to each residence.
To make these signs more esthetically pleasing,RPV could create conditions
for signage;such as,permission from RPV to post a sign,all signs to look the
.".same as regards size,color of sign and print,size of print and length of posting.
~
The Peninsula Friends of the Library sincerely requests that you will NOT
remove this communication to our residents,thusly leaving them uninformed of
many activities of the important organizations of RPV.
Thank you for your consideration.
Jane Jones
President
12-48
Page 1 of 1
Abigail Harwell
From:kelly bates [kellyblankbates@yahoo.com]
Sent:Tuesday,February 08,2011 8:40 AM
To:abigailh@rpv.com
SUbject:event signs
Ms.Harwell,
I was very interested to read the memorandum regarding event signs in Rancho Palos Verdes.As a member
of Curtain's Up!and Ek Kardia I have been involved with event sign placement.I did not realize that the
Hawthorne/Silver Spur location was no longer valid and that explains the terrible mis-use of this area by
commercial signs.The intersection looks awful with Domino signs and month old Christmas tree signs.
However,I think it's very important that the city supports the many and varied non profit events in our
community,especially at a time when newspapers are cutting back and it is harder and harder to find venues
to announce these events.I find it ironic that RHE insisted that the Silver Spur/Crenshaw location since
RHE does allow signs.I do like that RHE has a strict policy on what they allow and maybe this would help
with the event sign issue in RPV.
Thank you for your time,
Kelly Bates
2/8/2011
12-49
Page 1 of 1
Abigail Harwell
From:Joel Rojas Uoelr@rpv.com]
Sent:Monday,February 07,2011 9:52 AM
To:abigailh@rpv.com
Subject:FW:February 8.Item 4.Banners
From:SunshineRPV@aol.com [mailto:SunshineRPV@aol.com]
Sent:Monday,February 07,2011 9:47 AM
To:pc@rpv.com
Subject:February 8.Item 4.Banners
February 7,2011
MEMO from Sunshine
TO:RPV Planning Commissioners
RE:4.CODE AMENDMENT FOR TEMPORARY SIGN PERMITS (CASE NO.ZON2011-
00007):Citywide /City (AH)
Staff is reacting to aesthetic concerns expressed by a few residents of our city.In support of
their solution they have expressed a concern or their own which is a potential First
Amendment violation.
The Staff recommendation is only a partial solution.I suggest that you consider going all the
way in one direction or the other.
If you are leaning in the direction of preventing "unsightly"banners,(as in supporting Staff'~
Recommendation),then you should recommend that the City cease and desist posting
banners of their own in the right of way where other organizations may not;cease and desist
allowing banners to be displayed on parkland;prohibit banners on private property if they are
visible from public places.These banners are either compatible with our community or they
are not.
If you are leaning in the direction of allowing these banners,then you should recommend
adding them,in all locations,to the City's income generating fee structure under the Rec.
and Parks Department.They must already have policies for signage as related to the for a
fee activities on our parks.
I find these banners to be both informational and an ugly distraction as I am driving by.
2/7/2011 12-50
Silver Spur Elementary School PTA
5500 Ironwood Street
Rancho Palos Verdes,CA 90275
February 2,2011
Rancho Palos Verdes City Hall
Attention:City Council
30940 Hawthorne Blvd.
Rancho Palos Verdes,CA 90275
Dear City Council Members,
1=XL\(1(1 ('II/!(~J
AI1I1I1J
RECEIVED
FEB 03 2011
PlANNING,BUILDING AND
CODE ENFORCEMENT
It has recently come to our attention that a proposal has been initiated to eliminate the
program that currently allows non-profit organizations to place temporary special event
signs at the intersections ofPV Drive SouthlPV Drive East,Silver SpurlDeep Valley and
at Hesse Park.The Silver Spur Elementary School PTA would like to appeal to the City
not to eliminate this program,as it benefits not only the Chamber,but non-profit
members as well.
Often these signs provide a "visual"reminder that so many of us need to learn about or
remember events and programs.These signs provide valuable advertising and allow us to
spend our limited dollars as wisely as possible,increasingly important given the current
economic challenges we face.We again appeal to you to consider the impact the
elimination of these special events signs would have on the community and the non-profit
organizations that benefit from them.
Thank you for your further consideration of this matter.
Victoria Kramer
Corresponding Secretary
Silver Spur Elementary School PTA
12-51
Page 1 of2
Abigail Harwell
From:Joel Rojas Uoelr@rpv.com]
Sent:Friday,February 04,2011 11:10 AM
To:'Abigail Harwell'
Subject:FW:Code Amendment for Temporary Sign Permits (CASE NO.ZON2011-00007)
From:John Freeman [mailto:jrfree@cox.net]
Sent:Friday,February 04,201111:05 AM
To:pc@rpv.com
Subject:Code Amendment for Temporary Sign Permits (CASE NO.ZON2011-00007)
Re:Agenda item #4,February 8,2011
Dear Planning Commissioners:
I support the staff report and City Council direction to eliminate signs from our parks.
Thank you for considering this important matter relating to the Sign and Advertising Pollution at our
parks.
"It is the goal of the City of Rancho Palos Verdes to conserve,protect,and enhance its natural
resources,beauty,and open space for the benefit and enjoyment of its residents and the
residents of the entire region.
Future development shall recognize the sensitivity of the natural environment and be
accomplished in such a manner as to maximize the protection of it."
(From the RPV General Plan,Natural Environment Element.)
Conclusion:We must give priority to "conserve,protect,and enhance"our parks,over advertising and
banner signs that are not even related to our parks.See my previous em ails below.
Thank you,
John Freeman
Pacific View Homeowners Association (representing 345 homeowners immediately surrounding Hesse
Park)
From:John Freeman [mailto:jrfree@cox.net]
Sent:Monday,October 25,2010 4:43 PM
To:Julie Peterson
Cc:cc@rpv.com
Subject:Sign Pollution at Hesse Park
Hello Julie,
I live near Hesse Park and I've noticed an increasing frequency of large plastic signs placed at the
entrances of the park for passing motorists.As you know,Hesse Park is one of our most beautiful
2/4/2011 12-52
Page 2 of2
parks with great ocean views and vistas.However lately it has become "Billboard Park".Today there
are signs for a Christian Science Healing service and the PV Symphony.Last week it was PV
Promenade on the Peninsula 5K walk/run.Before that was Palos Verdes Concours,and on and on.
My point/question is what are we promoting at RPV,"Billboard Parks"or ocean vistas?Is there any
end to this?Frankly I (and I suspect most others)didn't move to RPV to see weekly changing billboard
sized signs at our Hesse Park corner.We want to see the trees and the ocean.
Please help me understand the increased usage of signs at our beautiful parks.For 30 years we have
managed just fine without eye jarring huge signs.Maybe I can understand if it is a RPV park event at
Hesse Park being announced,but we don't need this to be a forum for any and all other ads.
What can you (we)do to put a stop to this sign pollution?
John Freeman
Rancho Palos Verdes
From:John Freeman [mailto:jrfree@cox.net]
Sent:Tuesday,October 26,2010 7:48 AM
To:'Carolyn Lehr'
Cc:'parks@rpv.com';cc@rpv.com;Julie Peterson (juliep@rpv.com)
Subject:RE:Sign Pollution at Hesse Park
Hello Carolyn,
I'm sure there are lots of worthwhile community groups and I'm not against any of them.I was
surprised to see the Christian Science Church service event advertisement at Hesse Park.Their
church is in PV Estates,not RPV,so how does that qualify?
And I support the Peninsula Symphony as well.A fine organization.But their concerts are in the
Rolling Hills Estates Covenant Church,not in RPV.
And the Promenade on the Peninsula race ran a course on Deep Valley Drive near the RHE shopping
center,not in RPV.
Bottom line,none of these events seem to have anything to do with Hesse Park or are even
geographically related to Hesse Park.
Carolyn,you know I'm a big supporter of our parks,especially Hesse Park.Maybe I just don't
understand the staff approval process,municipal code,or overall policy regulating signs at specific RPV
parks.
Advertising "Shakespeare by the Sea","Pet Adoption",or "We Want your Input"seems appropriate at
Hesse Park,but I don't see the other connections.Do you?
John Freeman
2/4/2011
12-53
Page 1 of 1
Abigail Harwell
From:Joel Rojas Uoelr@rpv.com]
Sent:Friday,February04,20118:16AM
To:abigailh@rpv.com
Subject:FW:PC Mtg.of 2/8/11
From:rebisimon [mailto:rebisimon@aol.com]
Sent:Thursday,February 03,2011 4:58 PM
To:sharon yarber;pc@rpv.com
ee:Ara M;Carolyn Lehr;Carol W.Lynch
Subject:Re:PC Mtg.of 2/8/11
What does this resolution exactly mean?We can only have signs at our front yards
and private businesses?They do this and we're not a charter city yet.God help us
if C passes
In a message dated 02/03/11 11 :50:03 Pacific Standard Time,momofyago@gmail.com writes:
Dear Planning Commissioners,
Our rights as citizens and residents are constantly being eroded at every level of government.
It is important that the exercise of our rights of free speech not be further reduced.I do not see
any justification for prohibiting non-commercial signs on the City's rights-of-way,particularly
with respect to matters of local interest and/or concern,such as election matters.
Please do NOT adopt the proposed Resolution eliminating RPVMC Section 17.76.050.D.4,
the effect of which will be to prohibit signs in the City's rights-of-way.This code section
provides an important means of effectively and without cost communicating with residents
about significant matters.The City uses our tax dollars to communicate via its newsletter.The
residents need to be able to communicate without having to purchase costly ads and mailers.
Thank you for your consideration of this request.
Sharon Yarber
2/4/2011
12-54
Abigail Harwell
FW:PC Mtg.of 2/8/11
From:DrSue [mailto:drsue@cox.net]
Sent:Thursday,February 03,2011 2:08 PM
To:Sharon Yarber;RPV Planning Commission
Cc:Ara M;Carolyn Lehr;Carol W.Lynch
~ubject:Re:PC Mtg.of 2/8/11
Dear Planning Commissioners,
I whole-heartedly agree.
Dr.Sue Soldoff
Sharon Yarber2/3/11 11:50 AMmomofyago@gmail.com
Dear Planning Commissioners,
Our rights as citizens and residents are constantly being eroded at every level of
government.It is important that the exercise of our rights of free speech not be further
reduced.I do not see any justification for prohibiting non-commercial signs on the City's
rights-of-way,particularly with respect to matters of local interest and/or concern,such
as election matters.
Please do NOT adopt the proposed Resolution eliminating RPVMC Section 17.76.050.D.4,
the effect of which will be to prohibit signs in the City's rights-of-way.This code
(ection provides an important means of effectively and without cost communicating wi"th
\,£esidents about significant matters.The City uses our tax dollars to communicate via its
newsletter.
The residents need to be able to communicate without having to purchase costly ads and
mailers.
Thank you for your consideration of this request.
Sharon Yarber
1 12-55
From:sharon yarber [mailto:momofyago@gmail.com]
Sent:Thursday,February 03,201111:50 AM
To:pc@rpv.com
Cc:Ara M;Carolyn Lehr;Carol W.Lynch
Subject:PC Mtg.of 2/8/11
Dear Planning Commissioners,
Our rights as citizens and residents are constantly being eroded at every level of
government.It is important that the exercise of our rights of free speech not be further
reduced.I do not see any justification for prohibiting non-commercial signs on the City's
rights-of-way,particularly with respect to matters of local interest and/or concern,such as
election matters.
Please do NOT adopt the proposed Resolution eliminating RPVMC Section
17.76.050.DA,the effect of which will be to prohibit signs in the City's rights-of-way.
This code section provides an important means of effectively and without
cost communicating with residents about significant matters.The City uses our tax
dollars to communicate via its newsletter.The residents need to be able to communicate
without having to purchase costly ads and mailers.
Thank you for your consideration of this request.
Sharon Yarber
12-56
Abigail Harwell
From:Melanie Streitfeld [brmstreitfeld@hotmail.com]
Sent:Thursday,February 03,2011 9:08 AM
To:abigailh@rpv.com
Subject:RPV Signs
Dear Ms.Harwell,
Page 1 of 1
#1
As a member of the PVP Chamber of Commerce,I was upset to learn that my city,RPV,is considering banning
the areas for signs that non-profits use to inform residents of events.I have lived in RPV for 30 years and rely on
the signs to know when certain events are taking place.I also work for the Banning Museum in Wilmington,
which is a non-profit and I know how hard and costly it can be to promote events.Even though the Banning
doesn't use signs,losing those areas will dramatically impact the non-profits on the hill.Regulate the signs but
please do not eliminate them.
Melanie Streitfeld
Development Office
Friends of Banning Museum
310-548-2005 Office
310-548-2644 FAX
2/3/2011 12-57
Page 1 of 1
Abigail Harwell
From:Sylvia Richardson [srichardson@pvld.org]
Sent:Thursday,February 03,2011 8:11 AM
To:abigailh@rpv.com
Subject:Signs of the times
I am writing in support of retaining the option for non-profits to post at the intersections mentioned.
Non-profits like schools and libraries are having such economic struggles already;to disallow
promotion in such areas would be one more blow to the ability of non-profits to communicate valuable
programs to their local audience.
Sylvia Richardson
Adult Services Manager
Palos Verdes Library District
701 Silver Spur Road
Rolling Hills Estates
CA 90274
310-377-9584 x 210
2/3/2011 12-58
Silver Spur Elementary School PTA
5500 Ironwood Street
Rancho Palos Verdes,CA 90275
February 2,2011
Rancho Palos Verdes City Hall
Attention:City Council
30940 Hawthorne Blvd.
Rancho Palos Verdes,CA 90275
Dear City Council Members,
eft /iJ/;(l1U/U<J
!J;;/l11/15-
RECE ED
FEB 03 2011
.PLANNING,BUILDING AND
CODE ENFORCEMENT
It has recently come to our attention that a proposal has been initiated to eliminate the
program that currently allows non-profit organizations to place temporary special event
signs at the intersections of PV Drive SouthJPV Drive East,Silver Spur/Deep Valley and
at Hesse Park.The Silver Spur Elementary School PTA would like to appeal to the City
not to eliminate this program,as it benefits not only the Chamber,but non~profit
members as well.
Often these signs provide a "visual"reminder that so many of us need to learn about or
remember events and programs.These signs provide valuable advertising and allow us to
spend our limited dollars as wisely as possible,increasingly important given the current
economic challenges we face.We again appeal to you to consider the impact the
elimination of these special events signs would have on the community and the non-profit
organizations that benefit from them.
Thank you for your further consideration of this matter.
Victoria Kramer
Corresponding Secretary
Silver Spur Elementary School PTA
12-59
Mary Jane Schoenheider
3700 Palos Verdes North
Palos Verdes Estates,CA 90274
310-375-3051
m jsels@aol.com
March 22,2011
Carolyn Lehr,City Manager
Staff Members
Members of the Planning Commission
City of Rancho Palos Verdes
30940 Hawthorne Blvd.
Rancho Palos Verdes,CA 90275
RECEIVED
MAR 222011
PlANNING,BUILDING AND
CODE ENFORCEMENT
As a 45 year resident of the Palos Verdes Peninsula,and an active member in a number
of local community philanthropic organizations,I am writing to petition the City of
Rancho Palos Verdes to consider reinstating the original rules for placing banners by
non-profit organizations on the designated areas in the city.
The many non-profit organizations that for years complied by the rules set by the city
greatly appreciated and benefited from hanging our banners for a specific amount of time
to announce our events.
The City use to require that a member of an organization come into City Hall,Public
Works Dept.,fill out a detailed request form for a minimum 2 week period to post a
banner.Only 4 or 5 banners were allowed at the same time at the comer of Hawthorne
and Silver Spur (the prime location in the city and most requested).I do recall there was
another location for a banner on the east side of the hill.
There was a time period in which an organization could register for a banner placement.
As I recall it was something like 30-60 days prior to the requested posting date.
Specific instructions were listed by the city,including size of banner,specific color green
on white background,and NO art work.Logos and wording had to be approved.A copy
of the banner wording was required to be submitted.
An upfront fee of$30 was required at time of request for a banner.The check was either
returned after meeting all the rules including taking the banner down on time,or was kept
on file if this was an organization that filed on a yearly basis.
Cont.
12-60
Page 2
At some point in time the city stopped requiring the above rules,and it became a free for
all with anyone posting banners of any size and color for not only non-profit events but
for commercial gain.Banners began to be left up on the Silver Spur fence for weeks and
even months following an event.That site at Silver Spur and Hawthorne became a
complete unsightly mess.
With this being said,I would like to request that the City of Rancho Palos Verdes go back
to their old policies of allowing ONLY local non-profit organizations holding an event
open to the public be allowed to post their banner for a specific time period.No school
and sports teams should be allowed to place banners for sign ups.The city needs to be
more diligent in checking the areas where banners are placed.Notices need to be put on
your website and in local publications regarding the rules for placing a banner,and I
would also suggest a stiff fine for those organizations not abiding by the rules.
The City of Rolling Hills Estates does a very good job at controlling signage on their city
fences.Why can't the City of Rancho Palos Verdes do the same with their designated
sign areas?
I plan to attend the meeting on Tuesday, April 5.
Thank you for allowing me to express my opinions.
~fkueeS~
Mary Jane Schoenheider
12-61
From:Elizabeth Griggs [egriggs@stoltzusa.com]
Sent:Monday,March 28,2011 11 :34 AM
To:cc@rpv.com
Subject:City Banner Program
Dear RPV City Council,
As th"e General Manager of Promenade on the Peninsula,we are proud to be active in the community and do what we can to
support the non-profit organizations and their efforts on the peninsula.The residents on the hill are incredibly philanthropic
and lead their lives with a passion unlike many others.They make things happen,even in these unprecedented times.
As all businesses,everyone is having to do things smarter and with less resources.Non-profits are no different.The vast
majority of non-profits need the City's support on the affordable banner program that allows them to promote their
important fund raising event or message on the hill especially at a time when funds are limited.
Please look at how other cities on the hill work together to support the non-profits.Hopefully there are some ideas that
may generate some thought in the review of this important banner program.
On behalf of all businesses,the City's support is greatly appreciated.
Elizabeth Griggs
General Manager
Stoltz Management
Promenade on the Peninsula
550 Deep Valley Dr.Suite 101
Rolling Hills Estates,CA 90274
Telephone:(310)541-0688
Fax:(310)377-6062
www.promenadeonthepeninsula.com
3/28/2011 12-62
From:
Sent:
To:
Subject:
Attachments:
BannersJPG (793
KB)
janejones-pv@juno.com
Monday,March 28,2011 1:57 PM
abigailh@rpv.com;CC@rpv.com
Special-Event Banners for RPV Non-Profits
Banners.JPG
Dear Abigail and members of the RPV City Council,
Please include the attached letter in your deliberations on the use of banners in RPV.
Thank you,
Jane B.Jones,President
Peninsula Friends of the Library
Groupon™ Official Site
1 ridiculously huge coupon a day.Get 50-90%off your city'iS best!
http://thirdpartyoffers.juno.com/TGL3141/4d90f666e23094f7beOstOlvuc
1
12-63
March 25,2011
TO.RPV City Council
FROM-Pcnmsula Fnends of the Library
RE Non-profit Orgnmzahons'Use ofSpecull Event Banners in Rancho Palos
Verdes
Dunng your dlscussmn of this Issue at your councIl meeting,please conSIder the
positIon of the non-profits,such as the Peninsula Friends of the LIbrary
Rancho Palos Verdes IS 11 community.We nre extremely fortunate to have so
mflny reSIdents who support our non-profits.Wllhout these people and
orgamlJltians,RPV would nat have nearly as mnny benefits to offer Its residents.
These bnnnersore ,'itol for the orgamzations to Inform residents of their
actlvlHes It IS 100 costly to mini to each residence.
To JUoke these bllnners more estheticalty pleasing,RPV could create
condItIons f(lr banners,such as,permiSSIon from RI)V to post 11 banner.all
banners to look the same as regards srze,color ,print,and length of posting.
The Peninsula Friends of the Libror)'sIncerely requests that you NOT remove
this means of commumcatlon to our resIdents,leaving them uninformed of many
activIties of the unportant orgamlUhons ofRPV,
Thank you for ~9jl;consldemuon.
_.---:7 r''"/.......JI¢!;:;-
PreSident
12-64
From:John Freeman Urfree@cox.net]
Sent:Tuesday,March 29,2011 9:33 AM
To:cc@rpv.com
Cc:Joel Rojas;AbigailH@rpv.com
Subject:Code amendment for Sign ordinance,April 5
Attachments:Sign Pollution Virtual Tour.pdf
Mayor Long and City Council members,
Thank you for considering this important issue of sign proliferation in RPV.
I believe the Planning Commission got confused when hearing this matter,by incorrectly combining two separate
issues into one issue.The two separate issues are:
1.The need for non-profit organizations to publicize their events using banner or other signs within RPV.
2.The requirement (as specified in the General Plan)to "conserve,protect,and enhance its natural
resources"---in this case,our parks.
And,I would suggest to specifically protect Hesse Park from a proliferation of signs which interfere with our natural
beauty and views of the ocean and trees.I have seen up to 5 banner signs simultaneously advertising at Hesse
Park:2 on Locklenna Lane at Hawthorne Blvd,plus 2 or 3 near the Hawthorne Blvd entrance to Hesse Park.
Might as well rename it to "Hesse Banner Park"if that is the intent.NO.
I have stated before and continue to support our non-profit,cultural,and youth sports activities which are important
to our community.That is not the issue.
Our General Plan requires you to give PRIORITY to our parks when considering protecting the parks.
I've attached a short virtual-tour pdf of what RPV could look like if you allow banner signs at any or part or all of
our parks.Take a look.Can you image the resident revolt if you allowed those type of signs at these parks?
That's a slippery slope we should never start.
A better placement of banner signs could be in commercial areas,such as Golden Cove Shopping center,
Western Ave Shopping centers,or perhaps Indian Peak Rd between the Norris Theatre and Crenshaw Blvd.,or
other locations that do not interfere with the natural beauty and natural resources that we all moved here to enjoy.
"It is the goal of the City of Rancho Palos Verdes to conserve,protect,and enhance its natural resources,
beauty,and open space for the benefit and enjoyment of its residents and the residents of the entire
region.
Future development shall recognize the sensitivity of the natural environment and be accomplished in such
a manner as to maximize the protection of it."
(Quote is from the RPV General Plan,Natural Environment Element.)
Thank you,
John Freeman
Pacific View Homeowners Association
3/29/2011 12-65
Sign Pollution Virtual-Tour around Rancho Palos Verdes
What could happen nextl
Existing sign at Hesse Park and Hawthorne Blvd.
Possible future sign at Ryan Park?I hope not!
12-66
What it could look like at Point Vicente Interpretive Center
What it could look like at Abalone Cove Park
#4[;"_,,,''''
12-67
Advertising at Sunset Point Park?NO
12-68