HomeMy WebLinkAbout11/3/1980 - Minutes PCPLANNING COMMISSION
MINUTES
City of Orange
November 3, 1980
Orange, California
Monday, 7:30 p.m.
The regular meeting of the Orange City Planning Commission was called to order by
Chairman Coontz at 7:30 p.m.
PRESENT: Commissioners Coontz, Ault, Hart, Master, Mickelson
ABSENT: Commissioners none
STAFF Jere Murphy, Administrator of Current Planning and Commission
PRESENT: Secretary; Stan Soo-Hoo, Associate Planner; Gene Minshew,
Assistant City Attorney; Gary Johnson, City Engineer; Lon Cahill,
Fire Prevention Bureau; Bert Yamasaki, Director of Planning &
Development Services; John Lane, R.dministrator Advance Planning;
Doris Ofsthun, Recording Secretary.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE TO THE FLAG.
IN RE: APPROVAL OF MINUTES FOR OCTOBER 20, 1980:
Commissioner Master pointed out corrections on pages 5 and 15
of the minutes.
Page 5: Last paragraph, should be Commissioner Master making
statement, rather than Commissioner Mickelson.
Page 15: First paragraph, last sentence: Fluor handles 4000
people, rather than 6000 people.
Moved by Commissioner Master, seconded by Commissioner Mickelson
to approve the minutes of October 20, 1980, as corrected.
AYES: Commissioners Coontz, Ault, Hart, Master, Mickelson
NOES: Commissioners none
ABSENT: Commissioners none MOTION CARRIED
IN RE: CONSENT CALENDAR:
REQUEST FOR 1 2 MONTH EXTENSION OF TIME FOR CONDITIONAL USE
PERMIT 963 - KWIZ/FM: APPROVED ON PLAY 21, 1979
To allow a FM transmitter building and 150 foot high flag pole
type antenna on property east of Rancho Sa ntiago Boulevard and
south of the intersection of Hewes Street and Rancho Santiago
Boulevard.
Moved by Commissioner Hart, seconded by Commissioner Ault to
approve request for 12 month extension of time for Conditional
Use Permi t 963 .
AYES: Commissioners Coontz, Ault, Haet, Master, Mickelson
NOES: Commissioners none
ABSENT: Commissioners none MOTION CARRIED
IN RE: NEW HEARINGS:
PRE-ZONE CHANGE 933, CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT 1062, TENTATIVE
TRACT 11284 - THE IRVINE COMPANY:
Request to pre-zone property from County A-1 to City R-1-7 and to
allow a 171 lot subdivision utilizing private streets on the west
side of Newport Boulevard, south of Chapman Avenue. (Note: Negative
Declaration 650 has been prepared in lieu of an Environmental
Impact Report.)
.~
1
Planning Commission Minutes
November 3, 1980
Page Two
Mr. Murphy presented this application to the Commission, stating
that this is a request for a pre-zone change from County of Orange
A-1 to City of Orange R-1-7 (single family residential with a
7000 sq, ft. lot size); a tentative tract for the creation of 171
lots; and a Conditional Use Permit in order to create lots without
a frontage on a public street. The subject property contains
approximately 66.77 acres and is located on the west side of Newport
Boulevard, south of Chapman Avenue, at the Eastern extremity of the
city. The property is generally vacant, though a 4-H Club facility
is presently located on the site. The entire property is in un-
incorporated territory presently under the jurisdiction of the
County of Orange and is zoned A-1.
Mr. Plurphy pointed out that the Baldwin tract is under construction
in the County of Orange to the west, with a proposed church to the
south of this parcel, vacant land to the east and the Home Savings
residential tract under construction in the R-1-20 zone to the north
of this parcel. Newport Boulevard is a major arterial with an
ultimate width of 100 feet minimum and Canyon View Avenue would be
extended through this tract at a width of 80 feet.
The applicant is requesting a pre-zoning to the R-1-7 zone to allow
annexation into the City of Orange and subsequent development of
single family homes and a conditional use permit and tentative tract
map to allow creation of 171 lots which would not have frontage on
public streets. The applicant specifically proposes to create 170
single family lots with 1 lot to be reserved for recreation purposes.
A private street system would be developed to a width of 48 feet for
the collector and 44 feet for locals and cul-de-sacs. The collector
would have sidewalks on one side while the balance would not include
sidewalks.
Mr. Murphy explained that the applicant's yield of 170 single family
lots converts to a density of 2.55 dwelling units per acre, which
is within the general plan designated range of low density (2-6 units
per acre) for this site per general plan amendment 1-79 Item "A".
The applicant also proposes a half street section of 82 feet which
would include a center median, 35 feet of roadway and a total of 40
feet of sidewalks, (bike trail) and equestrian trail with alternating
strips of landscaping. It is noted that all these facilities are
proposed wi th i n the pub 1 i c right-of-way .
The site is proposed to be served by the Irvine Ranch Water District
in lieu of the City of Orange.
Mr. Murphy stated that the Staff Review Committee has reviewed this
proposal and indicated the following concerns:
(a) Because of the magnitude of the project a public street
system should be developed.
(b) Regardless of the public/private status of the tract, sidewalks
should be installed throughout. It was specifically pointed out
that school children would be walking to transportation points
daily .
(c) The street to the north which stubs into the subject property
(.Chandler Ranch Road) should be continued within the subject
deve 1 opment .
(d) The ~Jewport Boulevard street section shown by the applicant
should be reduced by deleting the equestrian trail and two
landscaped strips surrounding it from the public right-of-way.
Planning Commission Minutes
November 3, 1980
Page Three
Staff acknowledges the deli rabi 1 i ty of the equestrian trails .
However, it is felt that it should be located within the tract
itself. The primary consideration obviously is the cost of
maintenance to the City of Orange.
(e) The recreation area lot should be relocated north of Canyon
View where it could serve a majority of tract residents without
them having to cross the arterial highway. That provisions be
made to allow the keeping of horses if desired by future
residents of the tract. This site is surrounded by tracts
where horses can be stabled, as well as horse trails.
Staff recommends that the findings of the Environmental Review Board
to file Negative Declaration 650 be accepted.
The issue of the horse trail system is a most difficult one since
the question of maintenance is unresolved. The Community Services
Director does not feel that the City should absorb the responsibility
of maintaining the trail. However, it is acknowledged that the
development is not being proposed as an equestrian community and,
therefore, residents would receive minimal direct benefits from such
a trail. Generally the City has a number of alternative actions which
are possible in this regard.
(a) Accept dedication of the horse trail and maintain responsibility.
(b) Require homeowners association to maintain the horse trail
which would be located within the tract.
(c) Create an assessment district which would result in the assess-
ment of owners of horse oriented properties for maintenance
of public trails.
Mr. Murphy then showed the Commission a map detailing the horse trails
in the Orange area. This map shows existing dedicated and city
maintained horse trails in the area. He pointed out that there are
some private trails that are intertwined with the city maintained trails.
He then stated that the Staff is of the opinion that the proposed
tract design is unacceptable because of the lack of sidewalks on
interior streets, the intention not to continue an existing street
system which has been planned to extend into this site, and because
of the feeling that a public street system is more appropriate in
this case. Staff therefore recommends that this project be denied.
He also pointed out that in addition, the Planning Commission and
City Council have a very basic decision to make regarding acceptance
and maintenance of horse trails. The optimum situation from a cost
and safety point of view would be maintenance by another entity with
a modification of the trail section to show all trails abutting the
street with any landscaping adjacent to the tract boundary.
He went on to say that if the Planning Commission feels that the
basic request is acceptable with implementation of the modifications
as suggested by Staff, a continuance is also an alternative which may
be considered. However, a variance application would need to be
submitted and processed since, for public streets, some lots would
not contain the required street frontage. Because private streets
are being proposed at the present time, no such variance is needed.
Should the Planning Commission feel that the proposal merits approval,
the conditions of the engineer's plan check sheet are suggested.
Mr. Murphy pointed out that the second condition called out refers to
dedicating and constructing the streets in the project. This, of
course, would not be in conformance with the tract as proposed.
Planning Commission Minutes
November 3, 1980
Page Four
Commissioner Ault wondered why the Staff considered, in a develop-
ment of this conformation, that public streets are so desirable
over private streets. Mr. Murphy answered that because of the
density of the project there have been problems with private streets.
The density here is similar to several other tracts in the East
Orange area. The police and fire departments are interested in
providing public streets in subdivisions of this type.
Commissioner Ault wondered what areas were giving the city big
problems. The answer was Broadmoor and the tract at Meats and the
Newport Freeway. These are areas where the homeowners' associations
want the City to come in and police their area for them. It was
pointed out that the matter of sidewalks or lack of sidewalks pro-
posed problems also. The major concern is the safety of the children
and places for children to play.
Chairman Coontz suggested that Mr. Johnson speak to this issue. Mr.
Johnson stated that there have been several applications for private
streets. Some developments have been successful in getting private
streets and some have not. The Staff has been against private
streets, mainly because of the problems of fire and police accessibi-
lity and control during emergency situations. They have developed a
private street standard because of these requests and because they
do not want to hassle on what is an acceptable private street in each
and every development. The Staff's position is that generally
private streets create a lot more problems to the Staff in policing
and accessibility than they solve.
Commissioner Mickelson spoke to the issue of the horse trail system.
He asked if this is not part of an adopted system. Mr. Murphy
answered that neither the County nor the City have an adopted trail
system at the present time. Commissioner Mickelson wanted to know
what would happen if this link were not put in, does this actually
link anything up. Mr. Murphy showed on the map where the link would
be, explaining that it would link Orange Park Acres area with Cowan
Heights more than anywhere else. He felt that there were probably
other ways of rerouting that system.
Chairman Coontz asked how long ago this system was devised and was
told that they have been working on this for about five years. She
thought that at that time there was probably no way of knowing that
the Irvine Company would be opening this area up and one of her con-
cerns was the traffic problem to be faced on Chapman, which certainly
~ does not lend itself to a trail crossing.
Commissioner Mickelson wondered why they needed the recreation lot.
Mr. Murphy replied that perhaps the applicant could answer this better
than Staff. He explained that there are horses in the area and there
will be more horses in the area in the future, and it was Staff's
suggestion that applicant have area available for horse stables.
There might be people moving into that area because of the fact that
it is horse country. It was pointed out that the recreation area is
in the wrong place to be used for horse purposes.
Commissioner Mickelson wondered how many lots would be affected by
requiring a wider street and sidewalk, either on one or both sides,
for all the smaller streets. Mr. Murphy replied that he did not
know because although Staff suggested it as an alte rnative, feeling
that it would not impact the type of development that much, that in
essence, the same type of appearance could take place with a public
street system. It was never investigated in terms of what they could
accept in terms of even a modified public street section, rather than
going with the full 60 ft. standard width street section.
C
Planning Commission Minutes
November 3, 1980
Page Five
Chairman Coontz opened the public hearing.
Joe Perring, representing the applicant, The Irvine Company,
610 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach, addressed the Commission,
also introducing Bill Fischel, the project manager for this
development, who would be available to answer any specific
questions which the Commission might have. He explained that when
they began the planning of this area, they began first with an in-
ventory of what their limits were. They were aware that there was
development on all sides of Newport Boulevard, some of it at City
of Orange standard development, some of it in the County, that being
the Baldwin development. They were also aware that they were fronted
by Newport Boulevard, which is a primary street, and Canyon View,
which is a secondary arterial, having an 80 foot right-of-way, which
in essence splits their parcel into two different parcels. He
explained that they became aware of the design in the Baldwin tract
for the bicycle trail and the horse trail to the south and, com-
bining all of these things and being sensitive to the surrounding
areas, while recognizing that they were working within the general
plan density, they created the porject as it is now. They wanted
to be compatible with the adjacent land uses and development.
Mr. Perring pointed out that this is a gently rolling, hilly kind
of area. Their desire was to be sensitive to all of these things and
to be aware of that which was i n the community . They hope to create
a development that both the City and the company will find functional
and be proud of.
He then referred to the maps before the Commission. Since their
property was split in two, they wanted to develop a technique to
combine the two parcels into one, so that they would be perceived as
one single project. This was accomplished in two ways. One was by
developing streetscape along Newport Boulevard that accommodated the
existing horse trail and the existing bike trail. In addition, a
setback from Newport Boulevard that would provide both landscaping
and setback for the residential units that would back onto Newport.
He explained taht the second thing they would accomplish would be
to provide a spine road, running from one end of the development to
the other - on the map this is "A" Street. They also wanted to
develop some uniqueness in all four corners. For the interior
streets, their goal was to design streets that were curvilinear for
low traffic volume, and create an informal street scene. He pointed
out that they have several cul-de-sacs and short streets which en-
hances the residential character of the development and also helps
to create more safety for the chi ldren.
Mr. Perring also explained that they propose to provide streets in
conformance to the street standards and they also propose a sidewalk
along one side of "A" Street and planters at the end of all cul-de-sac
streets. They have talked with the Staff all the time about the
street sections and how they will function, and they are very much
aware that the police and fire departments have some real concerns.
One of these concerns is the parking question. They feel that the
36 foot right-of-way, curb to curb width, is in essence the same as
that proposed in the city standards for standard hillside developments.
He pointed out that they have talked with the Fire Department and they
were very cooperative in terms of the radius of the cul-de-sacs. They
were concerned on the first plan that was brought in that they could
not maneuver on some of the cul-de-sac streets. However, The Irvine
Company has worked with the~Fire Department to make these streets
functional in that way. There has been a concern by the Police
Department and the Fire Department about their closing off the entry
point and eliminating or impacting the response time and it is not now
Planning Commission Minutes
November 3, 1980
Page Six
their intention to have gates of any kind at any point, so that
there will be entry at all times.
Mr. Perring addressed the extension of Chandler Ranch Road. He
explained that they have provided a traffic study to the Commission
showing both if this road is extended and if it is not. This road
is a curvilinear design with a number of intersections. On the
west side toward Chapman Avenue there are a number of large lot
estates which would take access onto this road. The Irvine Company
feels that one of the goals they tried to accomplish was to direct
traffic towards the arterial and away from through streets within
subdivisions. They found that if Chandler Ranch Road is extended
through their development that there is a potential for through
traffic to come from Chapman Avenue to Newport, using Chandler
Ranch Road as a cutoff to eliminate going through the intersection
at Chapman and Newport. Their traffic study indicates that there
will be a 60% increase in traffic on that road if it is extended
through their project. They feel that if this road came through
their development as a through connector from Newport to Chapman,
there would be a potential for conflict with the traffic traveling
~ on the road.
Mr. Perring addressed the subject of private vs. public streets.
Regarding sidewalks, they began with a concept that they wished to
create. He then requested the Commission's attention to some slides
which were shown of various developments they have developed, some
with sidewalks and some without. He then explained the differences
in the various tracts when sidewalks were placed in the development
and when they were not.
He explained that the Newport Boulevard right-of-way was developed
with the idea in mind of being consistent with what was adjacent.
They wanted to provide the link in the horse trail that they felt
was a part of the h1aster Plan along Newport Boulevard, recognizing
that people living in Cowan Heights would want to go to the north,
to be able to participate in the Irvine-Santiago trail there. In
addition, the Broadmoor Tract developed a trail along Newport
Boulevard to the north. Their project was to accommodate what was
already in the area. They feel that their homeowners would have
minimal interest in a horse trail and should not have to take part
in the maintenance of it in their association.
Mr. Perring explained that what they have tried to do is to apply
valid design concepts to a piece of land that is not the ideal shape.
They have tried to provide adequate access to the parcel and, at the
same time, have an atmosphere of privacy. Their cul-de-sacs were
the result of this. They feel that their development is one that the
city can take pride in.
With regard to what impact there would be on the development if
public streets were put in, Mr. Perring explained that the schematic
plan that is shown shows building sites of about 7000 sq, ft. In
hillside development, much of the lot is taken away in the slopes.
This gives the people limited back yards. Their desire is to build
a development that gives adequate back yards. Public street widths
would take away from the property square footage and back yards would
become very small.
Commissioner Nickelson wanted to know what the lot size is. Mr.
Murphy answered that the lots were a minimum of 7000 sq. ft. with a
low density of 2-6 units per acre.
Planning Commission Minutes
November 3, 1980
Page Seven
Commissioner Mickelson asked the applicant why the need for a
recreation lot and was answered that they felt this was the
appropriate thing to do.
Commissioner Ault wondered if in planning this recreation lot,
whether they are planning on a one acre lot being a horse facility.
The applicant answered that the need for equestrian facilities is
limited and they do not propose this for their development. He
explained that most of the yards would be large enough for swimming
pools.
Commissioner Master wondered what the ratio is for the recreation
area. He was told that the City of Irvine ratio is 4.5 acre per 1000.
It is a variable kind of thing. In Woodbridge, they developed park-
land and worked with 3 acres per thousand. It was pointed out that
this is a different kind of application than Woodbridge. Commissioner
Master pointed out that the main fault with the recreation lot is the
remote location and they would possibly use one at either end of the
development. Mr. Perring explained that this is a rather difficult
shape parcel and they must place the recreation lot where it fits best.
Commissioner Hart questioned the statement that there would be no
gates into the development and wondered why private streets would be
open to public use. Mr. Perring explained that this becomes a question
of whether the public would want to use these streets to go through.
Mr. Perring felt that it was important that they deal with the issues
of the private vs. the public streets in the discussion of this
development. He thought that the private streets were the same from
a functional standpoint as they would be if they were dedicated
public streets. It is their opinion that the plan functions very well
with private streets and they would urge the Commission to approve
this.
The second issue is Chandler Ranch Road. They feel that this could
be a negative force in the area and they would encourage the Com-
mission to deal with these two primary issues.
Chairman Coontz questioned the Fire Department as to whether they
had assessed not opening this street as far as adjoining traffic
was concerned.
Lon Cahill, City of Orange Fire Prevention Bureau, answered that they
did assess this and the circulation on the other development connects
to the west and there is circulation up that road without connecting
it to that development.
Chairman Coontz closed the public hearing, there being no one else
to speak to this issue.
Commissioner Master questioned the staff regarding private vs. public
streets, wondering if the private street standards are met, what are
the problems with these streets. Chairman Coontz pointed out that
most of the areas where they had problems were PUD's. Mr. Murphy
stated that the people who speak the strongest about wanting public
streets are probably the police. They have had problems in develop-
ments with private streets, such as Broadmoor. After surveying people
within these projects, there is a different approach from the citizen
in these areas when he knows these streets belong to them. People
tend to misuse these streets more because they feel that they are
not subject to the same regulations as if they were public streets.
People operate differently when they know the streets are private as
vs. the public streets.
U
Planning Commission Minutes
November 3, 1980
Page Eight
Commissioner Master commented that they have the best of both
worlds. They have police protection and established parking
regulations and police jurisdiction, as well as having their streets
privately owned and maintained. Mr. Murphy pointed out that this is
the other problem. Even though the police are given the right to
enter into these streets, to provide certain services, because they
are private streets with a homeowners' assoociation involved, often-
times there are more problems. The police seem to find a substandard
situation in these areas where the association is supposed to be
doing their own policing and are not doing a good job of it. The
police object to going into private streets to maintain them.
Commissioner Ault stated that it was new to him that some of these
developments are in bad shape because of their private streets.
Chairman Coontz pointed out a movie made a couple of years ago in a
study shown pointing out these problems.
Commissioner Mickelson commented that he was bothered by the lack of
sidewalks. The history is that after the tract is occupied, the
citizens petition the city for sidewalks later on.
~! P1r. Perring responded to this concern by stating that there is some
difference between n av and previously. They have a lot of experience
in this area at this time. They must make disclosures to real estate
people and have buyer notification and they can work the no sidewalk
situation into that kind of disclosure. In addition, they can record
a document so that the knowledge that there are no sidewalks is
carried on from buyer to buyer.
Chairman Coontz wondered about upkeep of private streets. Mr. Johnson
answered that up until five years ago it was the rule that all tracts
have sidewalks. Once people realized that this was the way the city
intended this area to be, people accepted no sidewalks. He feels
that a continuous street needs sidewalks, perhaps on both sides. On
cul-de-sacs this would not be necessary. The owners feel that this
is their domain. If there is going to be any give and take, this
should be looked at realistically and see what the need is - not the
desire.
Commissioner Ault pointed out that Orange Park Acres did not have to
have sidewalks. They wanted rolled curbs and gutters. Mr. Johnson
explained that when the people purchase in the city, they want all of
the city amenities. The people in the county are happy with no side-
walks and no street lights. He explained that Villa Park has had a
problem with rolled curbs on their public streets. Private streets
have a more controlled situation. We could expect to get this type
of complaint if the rolled curb concept is approved. Mr. Johnson
also explained that the spine street, which is "A" Street, is not
scheduled to have rolled curbs. There will be a sidewalk on one side.
Chairman Coontz pointed out that nothing will be rural pretty soon.
Sidewalks on one side is better than no sidewalks at all. She
questioned the horse trail. This might accommodate the people of
Cowan Heights, but the City of Orange should not have to pay for
this trail.
There was discussion among the Commissioners with regard to this
subject. Chairman Coontz felt that this is a tremendous traffic
project for Chapman Avenue. There should be no trail here at all.
Newport and Chapman is a very busy intersection. She thought one
of the reasons for the designation of the trail is because of the
4-H location. But this will be moved to another area.
~~.
Planning Commission Minutes
November 3, 1980
Page Nine
The applicant stated that it was their understanding that they will
be relocated up near the college and he pointed this out on the map.
Commissioner Hart stated that there was an alternative. He thought
that if horse owners would pay for the trail with an assessment,
this could be maintained.
Commissioner Mickelson agreed with this and stated that he would like
to see an adopted trail system and create an assessment district,
and those developments that are equestrian oriented be assessed for
the equestrian trails. If it happens to run alongside or through
a non-equestrian development, then they are still assessed for it.
But that development should not be. Ne commented that his inclination
was not to require the horse trail.
Commissioner Hart stated that if there are any protests, perhaps the
protesters would be willing to pay these assessments.
Mr. Perring responded with regard to the horse trail. He pointed out
that their plan is sensitive to the solution of the problem there.
Taking it out would create a gap, but they would not fight too hard
~ about this.
Commissioner Mickelson stated that he has always been opposed to
cutting off internal local circulation. He could see where this
would function all right and he thought that the traffic report
which was turned in was a good one. However, he was bothered by the
idea that we put all these little fingers out to arterials and we
keep complicating the whole transportation system by doing this.
There was discussion among the Commissioners regarding the public
vs, private streets. There was concern about police being able to
patrol private streets.
Question was asked how wide a standard residential street is and the
answer was that it is 36 feet curb to curb. Normally there is a 60
foot right-of-way on the flatlands, but there are also hillside
standards which call for 52 foot or 56 foot right-of-ways, depending
upon whether it was a collector street or not. Commissioner Hart
then asked if a 5 foot sidewalk were placed on either side, that
would make it a 46 foot wide street. He couldn't see where this
would be a problem.
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
0
Mr. Johnson pointed out that the Staff did not have a problem with
the fact that they do not have enough street section. He thought that
it was the fact that if they were going to take the right-of-way over
they would need area in back of the curbs to provide utilities and
street trees, etc.
Commissioner Mickelson asked why there could not be a 4 or 5 foot
sidewalk along a vertical curb. The applicant answered that their
proposal provides a different type of character with. rolled curbs.
They do not want to kill the project over this,-however. Their pro-
posal is to have no sidewalks with rolled curbs.
Moved by Commissioner Ault, seconded by Commissioner Hart, to accept
the findings of the Environmental Review Board to file Negative
Declaration 650.
Commissioners Coontz, P,ult, Hart, P~taster, Mickelson
Commissioners none
Commissioners none MOTION CARRIED
Planning Commission Minutes
November 3, 1980
Page Ten
Phil Fischel, Project Manager for The Irvine Company, addressed
the Commission, speaking to the subject of the significance of
4 or 5 foot sidewalks, explained that because of the amount of
slope in the rear and side yards of these units, it is tight just
getting a 25 to 30 foot deep back yard. This is based on a 20 foot
setback on the garage front from back to curb. If they add a 5 foot
sidewalk to those streets, the setback goes back, the whole house
moves back and they wind up with less back yard.
Commissioner Ault felt that this is a good proposal. He agreed with
the rolled curb and no sidewalk. He felt that the Commission is
overemphasizing sidewalks. The children can be taught to take care
of themselves with regard to rolled curbs and sidewalk on one side
only. He also felt that there should not be a main arterial through
the tract.
Moved by Commissioner Ault to recommend approval of Pre-Zone Change
933, Conditional Use Permit 1062, Tentative Tract 11284. Motion
died for lack of a second.
Chairman Coontz stated that she would go along with the proposal for
private streets. She agreed with the non-opening of the extension of
the arterial, but she did not think the horse trail is needed. Perhaps
a Master Plan for horse trails is needed and perhaps it should be more
in line with what the proposed developments are with the future of the
extension of the City of Orange. As far as traffic problems are con-
cerned, she did not think horses can be mixed with cars. She felt this
was pie in the sky if they link up with Orange Park Acres. Commissioner
Master felt that sidewalks should be included on both sides of the
private streets. He has concern for the Police Department going into
these streets.
Mr. P1inshew explained that there are standards put into these proposals
which address themselves to these problems.
Commissioners Hart and Mickelson agreed with what had been discussed
at this point. Commissioner Hart wished to comment on the Water
District problem. He wished to see this issue brought into the motion.
Mr. Perring commented with regard to the City's concern about this
area being served by Orange Water District. He wished to emphasize
that if this becomes a condition of approval, and, of course, that
can't 6e done, then the approval would become null and void. They
like to see conditions of approval where they have the ability to
deliver. However, Irvine Ranch Water District is not The Irvine
Company and they have no control over it. He was not sure that
making this a condition of approval raises the consciousness level
any more than it already is.
Commissioner Mickelson stated that this should be handled separately.
Commissioner Master wondered if the plan check sheet should be
checked off as to what is pertinent and what is not.
Commissioner Hart commented that Condition #6 is confusing. Mr.
Johnson clarified this for him. He explained that instead of stubbing
the street, the city wants a knuckle. They are just working with a
street right-of-way. There was discussion about Condition #11 which
spoke to water and sewage, P1r. Johnson explained that this condition
is there under the assumption that they are going to be served by the
City sewer system. He explained also that we have the only gravity
flow sewer in the area. Every other sewer would have to be comped.
What they are saying is that in order for the District 7 people to
treat the sewage, they must annex into the district in order to be
compatible, or be legal. He did not think this was a point of con-
tention. Mr. Johnson pointed out that Condition #2 seemed to be the
only condition that probably needs reworking.
Planning Commission P~linutes
November 3, 1980
Page Eleven
Chairman Coontz felt that the horse trail condition should also be
eliminated. However, Mr. Johnson wondered if the Commission would
want to keep their options open by creating a landscaping area that
could be changed to horse trail later if it were wanted or needed.
It was pointed out that Condition #8 calls out landscaping along
Newport Boulevard. Condition #3 could be eliminated and just speak
to Condition #8.
Commissioner ~9ickelson wondered if they would eliminate the bike trail
Mr. Johnson explained that this is not a class 1 bicycle trail. If
the county plan does not mesh with ours, we may have to put in some
type of a bike trail adjacent to the curb. This has already been
discussed, although they have not arrived at any conclusion as yet.
They have not yet come up with a final plan.
Mr. Perring commented on Condition #2, which stated "To dedicate and
construct "A" through "R" Streets per local hillside street standards.
Canyon View Avenue to be dedicated and constructed to arterial stand-
ards." He wondered if the Commission intends that the standards for
putting in sidewalks would be hillside or private street standards.
It was explained to him that this would be private street standards -
not public street standards. Condition #2 should be amended to
indicate the Commission's concern or desire. "Dedicate" should be
stricken and for "A" Street to include private sidewalks both sides.
Instead of "hillside", it should be changed to "private".
Mr. Perring then brought up Condition #7, which states: "Subject to
a permanent desilting basin being constructed at the corner of
Chapman Avenue and Newport Boulevard as approved by the City Engineer."
They have a problem with this. He explained that they are aware that
silt is there when the area is graded. However, they do not feel that
this is totally their responsibility. They suggest that they be re-
quired to work with the City Staff.
Mr. Johnson explained that they have looked at this and have a meeting
set up to discuss this problem with The Irvine Company and Home
Savings and the Baldwin tract. There has been water concentrated on
The Irvine Company property. This is a mutual problem, but if they
can't get any concern, they must go to the nearest thing they have,
which is the development of this new tract.
Chairman Coontz wondered if they could add the words, "contribute to",
which would infer that they would not do this by themselves. Mr.
Johnson thought that wording would be acceptable. He needed something
that would allow them to work to protect the downstream facilities.
The word "participate" was suggested, rather than "contribute".
Moved by Commissioner Hart, seconded by Commissioner Master to recom-
mend approval of Pre-Zone Change 933, Conditional Use Permit 1062
and Tentative Tract 11284, subject to the Engineer's Plan Check Sheet
as modified, as follows:
Condition #2: Construct "A" through "R" Streets per local private
street standards, including sidewalks on both sides.
Second sentence left unchanged.
Condition #3: The lands-cape concept along Newport Boulevard to be
reviewed and approved by City Staff.
Condition #7: Change to read: "Subject to participating in the
construction of a permanent desilting basin...."
AYES: Commissioners Coontz, Ault, Hart, Master, Mickelson
NOES: Commissioners none
ABSENT: Commissioners none MOTION CARRIED
Planning Commission Minutes
November 3, 1980
Page Twelve
C
Mr. Johnson commented that the motion made previously would require
36 foot curb to curb plus 6 foot sidewalks beyond the curb at the
streets. Commissioner Hart explained that Item 2 called for con-
structing "A" through "R" Streets per local private street standards.
The private street standard calls for sidewalks on both sides of the
street.
CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT 1064 - VANDERSLUIS:
Request to allow sale of used automobiles in the M-2 zone on the
north side of Katella Avenue, east of Batavia Street. (Note:
Negative Declaration 652 has been prepared in lieu of an Environ-
mental Impact Report.)
r=
Mr. Soo-Hoo presented this application to the Commission, stating that
applicant requests approval of a conditional use permit in order to
engage in the sale of used automobiles in conjunction with the leasing
and restoration of classic automobiles in the M-2 zone. Although
this specific use is not called out in the industrial zones, Staff
felt that the use was similar to automobile sales and service uses
which require approval of a conditional use permit.
The property is an irregular shaped parcel containing approximately
1.65 acres of land located on the north side of Katella Avenue,
approximately 465 feet east of the centerline of Batavia Street.
It is zoned M-2 and contains a vacant industrial building on the
south part of the property, while the north part of the property is
being used to store construction materials. The property is sur-
rounded entirely by industrial units in the M-2 zone. Mr. Soo-Hoo
pointed out that Katella Avenue is a major arterial with a 120 foot
width. The Land Use Element of the City of Orange General Plan
designates this area as suitable for industrial development.
Mr. Soo-Hoo explained that the applicant proposes to restore, display
and sell classic cars in the existing industrial building. The cars
will also be displayed outdoors along the Katella frontage of the
property, which will comprise the auto sales area. The breakdown
of square footage and parking requirements for each particular use
is as follows:
^~
Office - 1643 sq. ft. = 7 spaces required.
Warehouse - 2206 sq. ft. = 3 spaces required.
Repair area - 1282 sq. ft. = 3 spaces required.
Inside display area - 4855 sq, ft. = 6 spaces required.
Outside display area - 2440 sq. ft. = 2 spaces required.
for a total of 21 spaces required.
The applicant has provided for twenty one parking spaces as required.
Nine of the required spaces will be located in the front of the
buildings and 15 spaces will be located along the chain link fence
located behind the building that bisects the property.
The applicant is intending to keep the remaining portions of this
property (to the north) in anon-automotive industrial use. He also
proposes to incorporate a sidewalk and landscaped area along the
Katella frontage as approved by the City Engineer. Access to the
property will be provided off of Katella Avenue via a 26 foot driveway
on the west side of the property and a 20 foot driveway on the east
side of the property.
Planning Commission Minutes
November 3, 1980
Page Thirteen
Mr. Soo-Hoo explained to the Commission that the City Engineer and
the Traffic Engineer have reviewed the applicant's plans and have
requested some revisions which the applicant has agreed to comply
with. These include a reciprocal driveway access agreement with
the applicant's neighbor to the immediate east of the property in
question. This agreement must be in the form of a signed letter
from each of the two parties involved. The two driveways will then
be joined. Additionally, the parking spaces that were originally
located along the rear wall of the building will be deleted. The
revised plans also include a six foot wide sidewalk and a six foot
wide landscaped area, along Katella as approved by the City Engineer.
Staff is concerned that the use not resemble a typical used car lot,
which is specifically permitted only in the C-2 zone. Staff prepared
Condition #1 so as to discourage this use becoming simply the sale of
used automobiles.
Staff recommends that the Planning Commission accept the findings of
the Environmental Review Board to file Negative Declaration 652.
Staff also recommends that the Planning Commission approve Conditional
Use Permit 1064 because the proposal is consistent with the intent of
the City of Orange General Plan and compatible with the surrounding
land uses and zoning. Also, the applicant has agreed to conform to
the development requirement as specified by the City of Orange Zoning
Ordinance, the City of Orange Planning Department, and the City of
Orange Public Works Department. Should the Planning Commission approve
Conditional Use Permit 1064, Staff recommends that it be subject to
the 12 conditions listed in the Staff Report.
Commissioner Master questioned what "classic car" means. How does
one keep this from getting out of hand?
Mr. Soo-Hoo stated that there is a fine line where this is concerned.
The understanding is that they will be reconditioning classic
Thunderbirds .
Chairman Coontz opened the public hearing.
Jake Vandersluis, 1150 N. Collins, Orange, the applicant, addressed
the Commission in favor of this application. He stated that it is
his intent to only restore classic Thunderbirds, vintage 1955-1957,
plus the sale of parts and sale of these automobiles at the 741 W.
~, Katella Avenue location.
Commissioner Hart asked if there was anyone making replicas of these
automobiles and Mr. Vandersluis answere d yes. Commissioner Hart then
asked him if he would be doing this and Mr. Vandersluis replied that
possibly he would. Commissioner Hart pointed out that this would not
then be a classic car.
Chairman Coontz had questions regarding the parking stalls in front
becoming display stalls. She pointed out that there is a BMW repair
garage nearby.
Commissioner Ault pointed out that you are dealing with a specialized
fancy car here.
It was also pointed out that Katella is a main east-west arterial.
Moved by Commissioner Ault, seconded by Commissioner Hart to accept
the findings of the Environmental Review Board to file Negative
Declaration 652.
AYES: Commissioners Coontz, Ault, Hart, Master
NOES: Commissioners none
ABSENT: Commissioner Mickelson MOTION CARRIED
Planning Commission Minutes
November 3, 1980
Page Fourteen
Q
Moved by Commissioner Ault, seconded by Commissioner Hart to
approve Conditional Use Permit 1064, subject to the recommendations
of the Staff.
AYES: Commissioners Coontz, Ault, Hart, Plaster
NOES: Commissioners none
ABSENT: Commissioner Nickelson MOTION CARRIED
CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT 1063 - CITY OF ORANGE:
Request to allow conversion of an existing single family residence
into an office in the 0-P zone at the southwest corner of Center
Street and Almond Avenue. (.,Note: Negative Declaration 651 has been
prepared in lieu of an Environmental Impact Report.)
Mr. Soo-Hoo presented this application to the Commission, stating
that this is a request for approval of a Conditional Use Permit in
order to convert a single family residence into an office. The
property is located at the southwest corner of Center Street and
Almond Avenue and contains approximately .13 acre of land. It is
zoned 0-P (Office Professional) and contains a single family
residence.
Mr. Soo-Hoo explained that virtually no activity would take place at
this facility outside of regular work hours (8 a.m. - 5 p.m.) since
only a minimal field shift works during evening hours and, of course,
their responsibilities are away from the office.
The Staff has reviewed the proposal and feels that it is acceptable.
A general concern related to possible parking problems and a suggestion
that street parking directly in front of the site be time limited was
made.
Staff recommends that the findings of the Environmental Review Board
to file Negative Declaration 651 be accepted.
Staff feels that the proposed use is appropriate in the 0-P zone and
that off-street parking is available in the City's main parking lot.
A standard condition of approval where a site abuts the residential
zone is installation of a 6 foot high block wall. This condition
would normally 6e implemented for the south property line. However,
Staff understands that there is a very real possibility that the City
may ultimately purchase the property to the south in the future,
which would negate the need for such a buffer wall. A suggested
modified condition therefore is to require installation of such a
wall should the property to the south not be purchased by the City
within 5 years.
Staff recommends approval of Conditional Use Permit 1063, subject to
the seven conditions recommended in the Staff Report.
Commissioner Ault questioned a 6 foot wooden fence which is already
on the property and did not think this should 6e torn down to put up
a block wall.
Chairman Coontz opened the public hearing. There being no one in
attendance to speak to this application, the Chairman closed the
public hearing.
n
Planning Commission Minutes
November 3, 1980
Page Fifteen
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
Moved by Commissioner Master, seconded by Commissioner Coontz to
accept the findings of the Environmental Review Board to file
Negative Declaration 651.
Commissioners Coontz, Ault, Hart, Master
Commissioners none
Commissioner Mickelson MOTION CARRIED
Moved by Commissioner Master, seconded by Commissioner Coontz to
approve Conditional Use Permit 1063, subject to the conditions
recommended by Staff.
Commissioners Coontz, Ault, Hart, Master
Commissioners none
Commissioner Mickelson
MOTION CARRIED
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT (CIRCULATION ELEMENT) 1-80:
John Lane presented this amendment to the Commission, stating that
there are three items included here:
Item A - Reclassification of a 0.34 mile reach of Orangewood Avenue
between Freeway 57 to Eckhoff Street from a secondary to a Primary
Arterial Highway classification. The amendment is initiated by
the City of Orange. Negative Declaration 647 has been prepared for
this amendment.
Item B - Addition of a 0.7 mile long corridor for the future extension
of Canyon View Avenue east of Newport Boulevard to Wier Canyon Road
as a proposed Secondary Arterial Highway to the Circulation Element
of the City General Plan. The amendment is initiated by the City of
Orange. Negative Declaration 648 has been prepared for this amendment.
Item C - Deletion of a 0.27 mile long corridor planned for the extension
of Eckhoff Street between Collins Avenue and Katella Avenue as a
Secondary Arterial Highway. The amendment is requested by the City
of Orange. Negative Declaration 649 has been prepared for this
amendment.
Mr. Lane pointed out that if this road were put in to connect Collins
Avenue and Katella Avenue, it would go through the Orange County
Sheriffs' pistol range and bridge a flood control channel.
Chairman Coontz opened the public hearing. There being no one in
attendance to speak to this application, the Chairman closed the
public hearing.
Commissioner Master commented on the Eckhoff extension from Collins
to Katella, wanting more information about this. Mr. Lane replied
that this is presently shown on the Pn1aster Plan as a secondary
arterial highway. There is presently a street in that section up
to the Orange-Olive Flood Control Channel. It is a 50 foot wide
street that is developed with curb, gutters and full improvements on
the east side only. On the west side is Inland Chemical Company
which takes their access from Collins. He didn't think they would
ever provide any street improvements themselves. He pointed out that
Eckhoff in that area would be a tremendously expensive street, which
would not be worth the cost for the use it would receive. Looking
at it realistically, it will not happen.
Moved by Commissioner Coontz, seconded by Commissioner Master to
accept the findings of the Environmental Review Board to file
Negative Declarations 647, 648 and 649.
~ AYES: Commissioners Coontz, Ault, Hart, Master
NOES: Commissioners none
ABSENT: Commissioner Mickelson
MOTION CARRIED
Planning Commission Minutes
November 3, 1980
Page Sixteen
Moved by Commissioner Coontz, seconded by Commissioner Ault
accept General Plan Amendment (Circulation Element) 1-80,
sections A, B, and C, subject to the recommendations made by
AYES: Commissioners Coontz, Ault, Hart, Master
NOES: Commissioners none
ABSENT: Commissioner Mickelson MOTION CARRIED
to
Staff.
IN RE: MEMORANDUM FROM JERE MURPHY WITH REGP,RD TO COMP~ISSION RESPONSES
RECEIVED FROM INDIVIDUAL COMMISSIONERS RESULTING FROM RECENT
LUNCHEON MEETINGS BETWEEN STAFF AND COMMISSION:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
AYES
NOES:
ABSENT:
Mr. Murphy explained some of the items brought out by the individual
discussions, more specifically:
A desire for staff recommendations on all applications even
though those recommendations may be contrary to adopted or
ad hoc City policy.
2. A desire for more field trips and study sessions.
3. Need for greater amount of communication between Planning
Commission and City Council.
4. More discussions in staff reports of a]ternative actions and
supporting findings in staff reports.
Mr. Murphy pointed out that there had been a suggestion of afield
trip to review recent development; and a study session, as well as
a presentation by Bruce Ramm regarding problems of private streets.
A study session was set by the Commission for Monday, November 24,
1980 in the evening, to discuss private streets. Afield trip was
set up for November 22, 1980 from 9:00 a.m. to noon, including
lunch.
Chairman Coontz thought that the City Council should be thanked for
the opportunity the Planning Commission had to meet with them. She
asked that a thank you note be prepared by the Staff for her
signature.
Chairman Coontz brought up that it had been suggested that there be
appointments made to the City Council's Economic Policy Subcommittee.
Moved by Commissioner Hart, seconded by Commissioner Master that
Commissioners Coontz and Mickelson be appointed to the Economic
Policy Subcommittee.
Commissioners Coontz, Ault, Hart, Master
Commissioners none
Commissioner Mickelson
MOTION CARRIED
Chairman Coontz also brought up the fact that an appointment must
be made to the Beautification Committee. She went on to explain the
duties of this committee.
Moved by Commissioner Hart, seconded by Commissioner Paster to
appoint Commissioner Ault to serve on the Beautification Committee.
Commissioners Coontz, Ault, Hart, Master
Commissioners none
Commissioner Mickelson
MOTION CARRIED
•_.'
Planning Commission Minutes
November 3, 1980
Page Seventeen
IN RE: ADJOURNMENT
The meeting was adjourned to reconvene at 7:30 p.m, on Monday,
November 17, 1980 at the Ci vi c Center Counci 1 Chambers ,
300 East Chapman Avenue, Orange, California.
STATE OF CALIFORNIA ) AFFIDAVIT OF POSTING. ORDER.
SS . OF ADJOUR~,!ME~LT
COUP!TY OF ORANGE )
Jere Murphy, being first duly sworn, deposes and says:
That I am the duly chosen, qualified and acting secretary of the
Planning Commission of the City of Orange; that the regular meeting
of the Planning Commission of the City of Orange was held on
November 3, 1980; said meeting was ordered and adjourned to the
time and place specified in the order of adjournment attached hereto;
that on I~!ovember 4, 1980, at the hour of 2:00 p.m., I posted a copy
of said order at a conspicuous place on or near the door of the place
at which said meeting of November 3, 1980 was held.
. ~
EXCERPT FROP1 THE MINUTES OF A REGULAR MEETING OF THE OP.P~NGE CITY PLANNING
COf~MISSIGN HELD ON NOVEMBER 3, 1980.
The reaular meeting of the Orange City Planning Commission was called to
order by Chairman Coontz at 7:30 p.m.
PRESENT: Commissioners Coontz, Ault, Hart, Master, h1ickelson
ABSENT: None
Moved by Commissioner Hart, seconded by Commissioner Ault that this meeting
adjourn at 10:00 p.m, on P1onday, November 3, 1980 to reconvene at 7:30 p.m.
Plonday, November 17, 1980 at the Civic Center Council Chambers, 300 East
Chapman Avenue, Oranae, California.
I, Jere Murphy, Secretary to the Orange Planning Commission, Orange,
California, do hereby certify that the foregoing is a true, full and
correct copy of that portion of the minutes of a regular meeting of the
Planning Commission held on Monday, ~lovember 3, 1980.
Dated this ath day of November, 1980 at 2:00 p.m.
er Murphy, .i ty Tanner .Secretary
o t e Planning C~mmissio of the
of Orange.
,~