HomeMy WebLinkAbout1/3/1983 - Minutes PCPLANNING COMMISSION
MINUTES
City of Orange
Orange, California
January 3, 1983
Monday, 7:30 p.m.
The regular meeting of the Orange City Planning Commission was called to order by
Chairman Mickelson at 7:30 p.m.
PRESENT: Commissioners Coontz, Hart, Master, Mickelson, Vasquez
ABSENT: Commissioners none
STAFF Jere P. Murphy, Administrator of Current Planning and Commission
PRESENT: Secretary; Norvin Lanz, Associate Planner; Gene Minshew, Assistant
City Attorney; Gary Johnson, City Engineer; Bert K. Yamasaki,
Director of Planning & Development Services; and Doris Ofsthun,
Recording Secretary.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
IN RE: ANNUAL REORGANIZATION OF PLANNING COMMISSION
Nominations for Chairman were opened and Commissioner Hart was
nominated by Commissioner Master, seconded by Commissioner Coontz.
Moved by Commissioner Vasquez, seconded by Commissioner f~lickelson
to close the nominations.
AYES: Commissioners Coontz, Hart, Master, Mickelson, Vasquez
NOES: Commissioners none
ABSENT: Commissioners none MOTION CARRIED
Commissioner Hart was declared the new Chairman of the Planning
Commission by unanimous vote.
Nominations for Vice-Chairman were opened and Commissioner Master
was nominated by Commissioner Vasquez, seconded by Commissioner Hart.
Moved by Commissioner Vasquez, seconded by Commissioner Hart to
close the nominations.
AYES: Commissioenrs Coontz, Hart, Master, Mickelson, Vasquez
NOES: Commissioners none
ABSENT: Commissioners none MOTION CARRIED
Commissioner Master was declared the new Vice-Chairman of the
Planning Commission by unanimous vote.
Moved by Commissioner Coontz, seconded by Commissioner Vasquez that
the new Chairman and Vice-Chairman assume their seats at the next
regular meeting of the Planning Commission.
AYES: Commissioners Coontz, Hart, Master, Mickelson, Vasquez
NOES: Commissioners none
ABSENT: Commissioners none MOTION CARRIED
Commissioner Vasquez stated his appreciation to Chairman Mickelson
for the excellent job which he had done as Chairman of the Planning
Commission over the past two years, which statement of appreciation
was concurred by the other members of the Commission.
IN RE: APPROVAL OF MINUTES FOR DECEMBER 20, 1982:
Moved by Commissioner Master, seconded by Commissioner Coontz to
approve the minutes of December 20, 1982, as transmitted.
AYES: Commissioners Coontz, Hart, Master, Mickelson, Vasquez
NOES: Commissioners none
ABSENT: Commissioners none MOTION CARRIED
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Planning Commission Minutes
January 3, 1983
Page Two
~ IN RE: CONTINUED HEARINGS:
ZONE 984, VARIANCE 1709 - CENTURY AMERICAN CORPORATION:
A request to change from the OP (Office-Professional) District to
the C-P (Commercial-Professional) District and permission to provide
less than the required setback in the C-P District on the southern
portion of a parcel of land located on the northeast corner of
Katella Avenue and Wanda Street (continued from December 6, 1982).
(NOTE: Negative Declaration 798 has been filed in lieu of an
Environmental Impact Report.)
Jere Murphy presented this application, stating that the property
in question is a rectangular shaped parcel containing approximately
2 acres of land located at the northeast corner of Wanda Road and
Katella Avenue. The property is vacant and is zoned 0-P (Office-
Professional) using the Resolution of Intent to Rezone procedure.
Mr. Murphy explained that the applicant requests a zone change from
0-P (Office-Professional) to C-P (Commercial Professional) in order
to establish a commercial bank in a section of a previously approved
office building. The proposed zone change encompasses approximately
7,364 square feet of land on the south end of the property and 3,500
square feet of the approved office building (the section that abuts
Katella Avenue). The applicant also requests a variance in order to
encroach 5 feet into the required 15 foot setback along Katella
Avenue, as required for the C-P zone (sec. 17.40.060).
The Staff has reviewed the proposal and has several concerns:
a. The split zoning of one parcel of land is contrary to the
City policy.
b. The proposed zone change to C-P would be difficult to
administer and would permit retail sales an d other uses
(beyond the proposed bank use) to occur within the center.
This expansion of permitted uses would be difficult to
regulate.
c. The possible retail uses that are permitted in the C-P zone
have a potential to increase the traffic circulation in the
immediate area of the project. Staff has concerns that this
increase in traffic would adversely impact the surrounding
residential neighborhood.
Staff feels that the proposed zone change is inappropriate for the
property in question. The proposed reclassification of the south end
of the property would introduce commercial uses into a residential
neighborhood. (A bank is considered a commercial use in the City of
Orange Zoning Code and is not permitted in the 0-P zone.) This zone
change would have a potential to adversely affect the amount of
traffic in the area. Additionally, a more intensive commercial use
could locate in C-P classified section of the property should the
bank leave. Staff feels that the original proposal, that of retaining
the entire project as Office-Professional, is in much better harmony
with the residential character of the neighborhood. Staff, therefore,
recommends denial of Zone Change 978.
Mr. Murphy explained that the proposed variance merely serves to allow
the project to be built using 0-P (Office Professional) development
standards rather than-the Commercial Professional setback requirements.
This C-P zoning classification requires a 10-foot side setback off of
all arterial streets. The proposed building encroaches in this setback
area 5 feet. It does not alter the original building as preliminarily
approved by the City Counci 1 on PJovember 9 , 1982. Staff recommends
that should the Commission approve Zone Change 984, Variance 1709
should also be approved. If, however, Zone Change 984 is denied by
the Commission, Variance 1709 is no longer needed as the setbacks
for the proposed building are in conformance with the 0-P zone.
Planning Commission Minutes
January 3, 1983
Page Three
Should the Planning Commission approve Zone Change 984 and Variance
1709, Staff recommends that the Resolution of Intent to Rezone
procedure be employed and that two items be accomplished prior to
reading the ordinance:
1. That the deed for the property be restricted to permit only
a bank or office professional use in that section of the
property that is zoned Commercial-Professional.
2. That the signage for the C-P section of the property be
restricted to that which is permitted by code in the
Office-Professional Zone.
Commissioner Master, pointing out that it would appear that the
primary ingress-ingress to the center would be the one facing Katella,
and wondered if it should not be restricted to a right-turn only in
and out. Mr. Murphy responded that Katella Avenue would be restricted
to right turns only in and out of the center.
Chairman ~1ickelson opened the public hearing.
Barry Cottle, representing Century American Corporation, 1428 E. Chapman,
Orange, addressed the Commission in favor of this application. He gave
a printed handout to the Commissioners, in order that they could follow
his presentation more easily. He explained that one of the pictures in
the handout has a rendering of what is proposed on the property. He
pointed out where the bank is proposed to be placed within the center
and explained that the bank would only cover 7% of the entire building.
He said that they had looked at the possibility of an amendment to the
0-P code in order to allow a bank there. However, the City of Orange
does not allow this kind of an amendment at this time. He pointed out
that, in talking with several surrounding cities, that quite a few of
them do allow a bank in an 0-P zone. The reason they are asking for a
C-P zone is that it is more restrictive than a C-1 zone.
Regarding the several concerns expressed with regard to split zoning by
Staff, he explained that they are not changing the building at all. They
are merely asking for 7% of the entire building to place a bank there.
They would be in agreement with the Staff's recommendation for a deed
restriction on the property, allowing only a bank or office use in that
.area .
With regard to the concerns expressed about increased traffic, Mr.
Cottle pointed out that they had prepared an EIR originally when they
requested their zone change. They have now done an update on it and
the study indicates that the traffic count now and including the numbers
for the new development are "within the design capacities of the affected
roadways." The studies have not found any adverse impact resulting from
the project generated traffic.
Mr. Cottle then referred to another page of his handout, stating that
this bank will be a limited use bank. He pointed out that they have
had several requests from real estate office, attorney firms and
developers to locate in this corner office space, all of which uses
are allowed in the 0-P zone and all of which would generate more traffic
than the bank.
Chairman Mickelson asked how many additional daily trips would be
generated by the bank over general office use per their recent traffic
study. Mr. Cottle replied that the traffic study indicates that 12.3
trips would be made per 1,000 sq. ft, of office use, against 169 trips
for a normal full service bank and this will not be a full service bank.
f
Planning Commission Minutes
January 3, 1983
Page Four
Commissioner Master pointed out that the previous EIR did not account
for the fact that Katella will probably become the primary East/West
corridor in~.the city He wondered if they had accounted for the
future development in the eastern part of the city and what will
happen to that intersection in the future. Mr. Cottle explained that
for ~an updated report they had talked to Bernie Dennis in the Traffic
Department and they do take all of this into account. He pointed out
that when they originally did the report in 1980 the bridge on Villa
Park Road was out and they did projections of traffic as it is antici-
pated in the future. Commissioner Master questioned the report's
validity and expressed concern about the figures stated in it.
Mr. Cottle then talked about the concerns expressed with regard to the
children going to and from school, pointing out the fact that the bank
would not be open when the children go to school in the morning and
the times when they return from school are spread out. They do not
all leave school at one time.
Bill Frantz, Chairman of the Board of Orange National Bank, addressed
the Commission, explaining that they are interested in having a facility
in this particular area, based on the original promise that they put
~ a full service bank,;catering to the people residing in the Orange
Unified School District. They are talking about a 3500 sq. ft. area
with a staff of 5-7 people. There will be no drive-up facilities at
all. The people will have to park and go in to do business or use the
automated teller. Their hours will be 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., except
on Fridays until 6:00 p.m. The school children will not be affected
by their traffic, in his opinion.
Commissioner Coontz asked why this particular site was chosen with the
close proximity of the main branch of the bank. Mr. Frantz explained
that the reason for choosing this site is that there is very little to
choose from in Villa Park and they wish to serve that area. This site
is approximately lz miles from their main branch. Their target market
area is to the east of the Newport Freeway, south to Collins and north
through the Villa Park area.
Commissioner Vasquez asked about the automated teller machine, wondering
about the times when it would be patronized and what kind of volume we
are talking about. Mr. Frantz replied that an automatic teller is open
24 hours a day. Most of the business is early in the morning and on
weekends. He did not know how many transactions would be made and asked
'~. the president of the bank to answer this question.
The president of the bank explained that the Katella office gets about
150 transactions per day, based on a customer count of 6,000. They are
anticipating about 1500 customers in tYiis branck with about 50 trans-
actions per day. The majority of the transactions are around 7 to 8 a.m.
4~ith very few evening transactions.
Commissioner Coontz pointed out that they are figuring on about one-third
of the use of the main branch.
Richard Gerke, 2924 Trenton, Orange, addressed the Commission in
opposition to this application. He explained that 19 years ago the
developer of the homes where he lives presented a plan to the Orange
Planning Commission having a street which would enter onto Katella
to service the tract and he was denied this plan because of the traffic
problems which would be caused. He pointed out that at that time there
was very little traffic on Wanda Road, which is not true at this point
in time. Ele also pointed out that two access driveways have been
granted to Century American onto Katella and he questioned whether it
is in order to propose a variance at this time when there is already a
~ variance in effect.
Planning Commission Minutes
January 3, 1983
Page Five
Mr. Gerke went on to say that when Century American originally pro-
posed this office center one of the important conditions was that
the buildings would be only one story in height and residential in
appearance, in order to fit into the already mainly residential area
surrounding it. They now propose to build a building 34 feet in
height when the original complaints and opposition to the proposal
was the height. He felt that they are already in violation of the
original proposal. It is in direct conflict to what was agreed to
at the May meeting. He stated that he opposes this zone change because
any retail use could come in to that area if this zone change is approved.
Mike Callahan, 1444 N. Kathleen Lane, Orange, addressed the Commission
in opposition to this proposal, stating that his home is at the rear
of the proposed building. All of the neighboring residences have a
minimum rear yard of 20 feet from the subject property. He did not
want the bank and automated teller next to his bedroom window. He
pointed out that the parcel is on Villa Park Road and Wanda Road, not
Katella and Wanda. At that particular point, it ceases to be a major
arterial highway. He also pointed out that this land is owned by
~ the Southern Pacific Land Company, not Century American Corporation.
H e then explained that Wanda Road is 80 feet wide for only about 1,000
feet. The only part of the road which has been developed is right in
front of the subject property, The rest of the road is narrow, with
a high rate of traffic.
Mr. Callahan then pointed out that in the EIR dated September 1980 they
were contemplating a bank building at that time. He read from a letter
signed by Barry Cottle, dated December 1, 1982, which states that the
City of Orange has approved development of this particular parcel of
land for two-story office buildings, which will provide for executive
offices and medical space. There was no mention of a bank.
He then mentioned that there is a concrete block wall which clearly
sits on the properties of his neighbors and himself. He wanted to
know what the plans are for that wall. It is a non-permit wall and
does not meet any codes.
He pointed out the applicant's statements pertaining to the zone change
on page 3 of the Staff Report, where the question is asked if it is of
public necessity that we have a bank branch here and the answer is yes.
There are two banks and two savings and loans just a stone's- throw away.
He felt that the applicant's statement was ludicrous. His main concern
is the traffic because his son will be walking across these driveways
to and from school. He felt that the bank use will increase the
traffic dramatically. He did not see how anyone can legally enforce
the deed restriction.
Helen Niger, a former resident of Kathleen, backing onto the subject
property, addressed the Commission in opposition of this application.
She explained that her mother and aunts now live in the house on
Kathleen and she lived there 14 years before her mother and aunts moved
in. Before they moved, they had an exterminator come out and it was
discovered that they had 1800 feet of water under their property. They
were unable to determine what this was and where it came from. She
.pointed out that on page 18 of the EIR it states that, according to the
residents living adjacent to the site, water seepage problems have
existed for the past three or four years. The extent of the ground
water seepage involves the first five properties on Kathleen Lane. It
was concluded that the seepage water was from a natural source and not
a potable supply, Inspections were made of the property on July 11,
1979 and they were unable to determine the origin. Based on the visit
~• of the people conducting the study, it was concluded that a sub-surface
study, including soil borings would have a very low probability of
finding the source.
Mrs. Niger explained that conclusions from this study were that one of
the viable factors was that the property was higher than the properties
on Kathleen Lane. She pointed out that now the developers have built a
62 ft, base which makes the land higher than it was before. She felt
Planning Commission Minutes
January 3, 1983
Page Six
that this needs some investigation.
Mr. Cottle again addressed the Commission in rebuttal of the statements
made in opposition to the application, speaking first to Mr. Gerke's
comment on enforcement of commercial uses, He explained that Century
American often purchases property which has some type of use restriction
and they are bound by these restrictions and abide by them. He felt
that they are definitely enforced. If they have a deed restriction and
Resolution of Intent on this property, it will definitely be protected.
They feel that the benk will generate much less traffic than a real
estate office, attorney's office, etc.
With regard to Mrs. Niger's comments, they are very aware of the
seepage problem. They have done borings and drillings and have found
no trace of water. Since they have been involved in the property in
the last three years, they have seen no sign of water.
Regarding the block wall which was mentioned, they would have to look
at the plans in order to speak to this concern.
Chairman Mickelson asked what the grading plan is and f~1r. Cottle replied
that the grading is far from finished. There is dirt piled up in the
middle of the property. However, it will not be 6 ft, higher, as was
mentioned.
There being no one else to speak for or against this application, the
Chairman closed the public hearing.
Commissioner Coontz asked P1r. Johnson to speak to the questions regarding
street designation and the concrete block wall. She also wanted the
water problem addressed, plus the enforceability of the deed restriction.
Commissioner Master also felt that the height question should be addressed
by Staff.
Mr. Johnson addressed the question of Villa Park Road east of Wanda,
stating that presently there is a dramatic difference east and west
of Wanda. 17,000 cars a day pass west of Wanda and 6700 east of Wanda.
These figures, however, are from before the bridge on Villa Park Road
was fixed and the figures may have evened out since then. He pointed
out that Villa Park Road, through the area east of Wanda is considered
a primary arterial. Wanda Road is considered secondary, carrying 10-15,000
cars per day.
Mr. Murphy pointed out that the developers are required to have a 6 ft.
masonry or block wall measured from the highest grade level. Whether
they would be able to use the existing wall or have to build a new wall
would depend on cooperation with the residential property owners to the
east, as well as the structural stability and the ability to raise the
existing wall or whether they are going to have to raise the wall after
grading the property. Many questions must be answered there in order
to make the decision regarding the wa]1.
Mr. Johnson then pointed out that any change in grading over 1 foot
requires a retaining wall and since he did not have the grading plan
before him he could not. give a solid reply. However, he estimated
that there would be less than a foot difference when the developers
were through grading. He did not anticipate a problem and was sure that
the engineer for Century American did not intend to build a retaining wall.
Mr. Johnson then spoke to the water seepage, explaining that this has
been a problem on the home sites themselves. Soil evaluation of this
site showed no free water on the site. As far as they can tell, the
development of this site will not make the problems to the east any more
acute. When the free water was found in that area, they had some city
crews dig behind the properties and they could not find any free water
on the Century American property.
Planning Commission Minutes
January 3, 1983
Page Seven
Regarding the question of enforcement in a C-P zone, Mr. Minshew
addressed this question by saying that there was nothing that would
prevent other uses from coming into a C-P zone without recording
something specific. He did not see any problem with enforcing a
deed restriction and felt that a probable way is to record a
Resolution of Intent that the property is to be used for a particular
purpose and the City Council may revert back to 0-P zoning.
With regard to the
Mr. Murphy stated
basically the same
sometime ago. The
is a little higher
on the residential
comments on the height of the proposed building,
that the plans approved by the City Council are
elevations which the Commission saw on the plans
height of the buildings at the peak of 28 feet
than a normal residence. The approval was based
style of the proposed buildings.
Chairman Mickelson asked if people in the area were notified when
the building plans were approved and Mr. Murphy replied that he thought
the people might have been notified. Mr. Gerke stated that he had re-
ceived no notice and other people had not received one either.
~ Commissioner Master explained that the roof area is intended for truss
space and storage space and is not intended to be used as a second
story. He found it impossible to vote on the EIR since new information
had just come out this evening regarding traffic. There was discussion
among the Commissioners in this regard.
Moved by Commissioner Vasquez, seconded by Commissioner Coontz to accept
the findings of the Environmental Review Board to file Negative
Declaration 798.
AYES: Commissioners Coontz, Mickelson, Vasquez
NOES: Commissioner Master
ABSENT: Commissioners none
ABSTAIN: Commissioner Hart MOTION CARRIED
Moved by Commissioner Vasquez, seconded by Commissioner Coontz to
recommend approval of Zone Change 984 for the reasons that the con-
cerns expressed by Staff in terms of the possible change of use and
potential impact should the bank vacate the premises are addressed
in special conditions, coupled with a Resolution of Intent to Rezone.
That the deed for the property be restricted to permit only a bank
~ or office professional use in that section of the property that is
zoned Commercial-Professional and that the signage for the C-P section
of the property be restricted to that which is permitted by code in
the Office-Professional zone.
Commissioner Master stated that when this property was first brought
before the Commission there was some comment about a bank. There was
much concern at the Commission and Council levels because of other uses
which might come in because of the zoning needed for bank use. He felt
that by looking ahead about five years this use is an inappropriate
use for that corner. Several situations are being created by this use
that he felt would not be good for the area. Therefore, he did not
support the motion.
Mr. Minshew explained in further detail how a deed restriction could be
recorded. The president of Orange National Bank was asked to give a
detailed explanation of a full service and a limited service bank,
which he did.
Moved by Commissioner Mickelson, seconded by Commissioner Coontz to
amend Commissioner Vasquez' motion to include a recommendation to
the Council that the Resolution of Intent include a definition of a
~ limited services bank with depository services only and no drive-up
services,
Planning Commission Minutes
January 3, 1983
Page Eight
Question was asked from the audience whether this would be included
in the deed of restriction and Mr. Minshew suggested that the
definition be included in the Resolution of Intent, with a state-
ment that the City Council may rezone the property back to 0-P,
rather than clouding the title with a deed of restriction. He felt
that this is a reasonably good way to go.
AYES: Commissioners Coontz, Master, Nickelson, Vasquez
NOES: Commissioners none
ABSENT: Commissioners none
ABSTAIN: Commissioner Hart MOTION CARRIED
Mrs. Niger asked where the walk-up window would be and was told that
the automated teller machine will be to the right of the main entrance
of the building, off of the parking lot, on the northeast corner of
the building. She asked how far th~e~building was from the property
line and was told that it was approximately 55 feet from the existing
block wall to the wall of the building. However, the entrance to the
bank and the automated teller machine will be on the residential side
of th ebuilding.
Commissioners then voted on the original motion, including the amend-
ment.
AYES: Commissioners Coontz, Nickelson, Vasquez
NOES: Commissioner Master
ABSENT: Commissioners none
ABSTAIN: Commissioner Hart MOTION CARRIED
Moved by Commissioner Vasquez, seconded by Commissioner Coontz to
recommend approval of Variance 1709 for the reason that it is a
technical requirement of the Commercial-Professional Zone which would
allow the project to be built using 0-P development standards rather
than the C-P setback requirements.
AYES: Commissioners Coontz, Nickelson, Vasquez
NOES: Commissioner Master
ABSENT: Commissioners none
ABSTAIN: Commissioner Hart MOTION CARRIED
IN RE: NEW HEARINGS:.
ZONE CHANGE 989 - CITY OF ORANGE:
A proposed zone change from R-M-7 (Residential Multiple Family)
District to MH (Mobile Home) District on land located on the
north side of Collins Avenue approximately 200 feet west of the
centerline of Glassell Street (201 West Collins Avenue -
Carriage Mobile Estates).
Norvin Lanz presented this application to the Commission, stating
that the property contains 16.42 acres of land and is located on the
north side of Collins Avenue, approximately 200 feet west of the
centerline of Glassell Street (201 West Collins Avenue, Carriage Mobile
Estates). It consists of two parcels of land and is developed with
145-unit mobile home park on property zoned R-M-7. Mr. Lanz explained
that this is the seventh mobile home park to come before the Planning
Commission for this change of zoning and he gave a brief explanation
of the background which led to this change of zoning.
He then explained that on September 30, 1982, members of the City
Council and Planning Commission met in a joint study session and dis-
cussed policy concepts to be used as a basis for policy actions related
to mobile home parks in the City. On October 12, 1982, the City Council
referred the report of the September 30, 1982 meeting to the Housing
Advisory Committee to begin the process of formulating policies for
Council adoption. Policies and actions considered are as follows:
Planning Commission Minutes
January 3, 1983
Page Nine
a. Continue the requirement that future mobile home
park developments be zoned M-H.
b. Continue to hold public hearings to rezone existing parks
to MH District and if:
1) approved either:
a) Adopt an ordinance or policy that this is not a
permanent action but serves to afford tenants with
adequate notice (time) to address relocation re-
quirements; ordinances to be circulated to the tenants or
b) include language to the affect of the above in
Staff reports and resolutions to record the City's
intent.
2) If denied, adopt a policy or resolution that any change
of use (including revision to vacant land) would require
preparation of a Tenant Relocation Impact Report and
possibly a Tenant Relocation Plan.
c. Tenant Relocation assistance plans are to continue to be
established between the property owner, park tenants, and,
if necessary, a neutral third party; said plans to be evaluated
for adequacy at public hearings.
3. The City will not adopt a universal formula for relocation
assistance plans as factors differ in each park. However, the
City could adopt a policy that benefits are to be paid equally
to all tenants regardless of the date they vacated the park and
the City could adopt guidelines to include factors to be evaluated
in formulating relocation assistance plans.
Staff has reviewed this proposal and has expressed the following
concerns:
a. That it appears the intent of the City Council to stabilize
existing mobile home park housing in the City by rezoning them
to the Mobile Home Park district may not be accomplished by
this procedure. It is presumed the park owner would simultaneously
request a new zone and initiate the public hearing process. How-
ever, if a rezone request is not processed simultaneously with the
decision to merely go out of the mobile home park business, no
public review would be required while tenants were required to
relocate. City Staff differs in their opinion as to whether the
going out of business constitutes a change of use.
b. Rezoning to mobile home district may be giving tenants of a park
a false sense of security.
c. Procedural options, such as an ordinance or an overlay zone
requiring an impact report upon any use change in a park, could
be equally or more effeftive and less costly to process.
Staff recognizes the predominately residential character of land use
surrounding Carriage Mobile Estates. The use of the site for a mobile
home park is consistent with the medium residential designation shown
on the general plan. The mobile home use seems to be the most ap-
propriate use for this property for forseeable future.
r~
L
The probability of the use of the site for residential uses and the
prospect that the City Council will be adopting policies in the future
that affect mobile home parks suggests the following action options:
Planning Commission Minutes
January 3, 1983
Page Ten
1. Deny Zone Change 989 without prejudice and recommend that
a policy resolution be adopted that states any change of use
(including reversion to vacant land) will require preparation
of a Tenant Relocation Plan for City service.
2. Approve Zone Change 989 for the following reason and policies:
a. Reasons:
1) The proposed zone is compatible with the surrounding
uses and zones.
2) The proposed zone is consistent with the fore-
seeable and present use of the property.
3) The proposed zone is compatible with the City's
General Plan.
b. Policies:
1) Adopt a policy resolution that states that the City
recognizes this zone change is not necessarily a
permanent action, but serves to afford the tenants
with adequate notice to address relocation requirements
upon a park owner's request to change the use; policy
statement to be circulated to the tenants, and
2) Adopt a policy resolution that states that any change
in use (including reversion to vacant land) will require
the preparation of a Tenant Relocation Impact Report and
possibly a Tenant Relocation Plan for City review;
policy statement to be circulated to the tenants, or
3) Postpone action until the City Council adopts a set
of policies or guidelines for the development, retention
or redevelopment of mobile home parks in the City.
Commissioner Coontz pointed out that a number of mobile home parks have
been rezoned but they have never made a resolution on mobile home park
policy before. She thought it would be inappropriate at this time to
change their method of dealing with this mobile home park since
consideration of mobile home park policies does not come before the
Commission until the end of the agenda this evening. She thought it
should be made very clear that no resolution has been made on the
mobile home park policy at this particular time.
Chairman Mickelson opened the public hearing.
Adolph Bausch, owner of the land which is leased to the owner of the
mobile home park in question, addressed the Commission in favor of
this application. He said that his main concern is regarding the
description since he also owns land to the north of the park and he
would not want that land to be rezoned along with the mobile home
park. He stated that this had been cleared up to his satisfaction
by the Staff. He said that he would not like to see a lot of restrictions
for the future which would devalue the property. He explained that the
Doughers have a long lease with him and he does not anticipate this
being anything else other than a mobile home park.
Chairman Mickelson expalined what the mobile home zoning would mean
for him. Commissioner Coontz also pointed out that at the end of the
agenda the Commissioners will be discussing mobile home park policies.
Dorothy Do ugher, owner of the Carriage Mobile Estates, 201 West
Collins Avenue, Orange, addressed the Commission in favor of this
application, stating that she was sure that the land could be put to
a more lucrative use than a mobile home park, However, she is grateful
that it is being considered for a change of zone to Mobile Home district.
She said that any cooperation which she could give on the mobile home
park planning she would be very happy to do so.
Planning Commission Minutes
January 3, 1983
Page Eleven
C~
Ramona Harris, 12062 Edinger, Sp. 25, addressed the Commission,
stating that she felt that the park recommendation is a good one,
but she didn't think that the owner of the park should be attached
to the moving problems of mobile home tenants. She felt that the
Commission and Council could get together and zone condominium property
as mobile home property to be owned by mobile home owners.
There being no one else to speak for or against this application,
the Chairman closed the public hearing.
Moved by Commissioner Coontz, seconded by Commissioner Master to
recommend approval of Zone Change 989 for the reasons that the
proposed zone is compatible with the surrounding uses and zones;
the proposed zone is consistent with the foreseeable and present use
of the property; and the proposed zone is compatible with the city's
General Plan.
AYES: Commissioners Coontz, Hart, Master, Mickelson, Vasquez
NOES: Commissioners none
ABSENT: Commissioners none MOTION CARRIED
CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT 1249 - HARRY S. RINKER:
A request to convert an existing industrial complex to an integrated
industrial, commercial office use on property located on the south
side of Katella Avenue approximately 796 feet east of the centerline
of Batavia Street. (NOTE: This project is exempt from Environmental
Review.)
Chairman Mickelson stated that due to the fact that Mr. Rinker was
a client of his, he had a conflict of interest and excused himself
from this portion of the meeting. Commissioner Hart took charge
of the meeting .
By consensus of the Commissioners, no presentation was given.
Vice-Chairman Hart opened the public hearing.
John Killion, employed by Architects Orange, representing the
applicant, addressed the Commission in favor of this application.
He stated that they have reviewed the Staff Report and agree with
their comments and conditions. He brought to the attention of the
Commission that in one of the buildings there is a restaurant use
which was approved in a prior CUP, which they would like to stand.
Also, Staff is asking for CC&Rs and the applicant would prefer not
to have CC&Rs attached to this application, but try to handle the
situation by resolution.
Commissioner Vasquez explained Condition #4b in the Staff Report to
Mr. Killion in more detail and he then agreed that there would be
agreement to the statement.
Mr. Murphy explained that Staff has no problem with a resolution rather
than CC&Rs.
There being no one else to speak for or against this application, the
Vice-Chairman closed the public hearing.
Commissioner Master asked Staff a question with regard to hours of use
connected with a prior use and what is requested at this time. Mr.
Murphy explained that this project would spread the hours.of use
over the entire day instead of peak hours.
Planning Commission Minutes
January 3, 1983
Page Twelve
Moved by Commissioner Vasquez, seconded by Commissioner Master to
approve Conditional Use Permit 1249 for the reasons as outlined in
the Staff Report and subject to the conditions set forth in the
Staff Report, with the exception of 4d, whereby it would be sub-
stituted by a legal document satisfactory to the City Attorney's
office.
AYES: Commissioner Coontz, Hart, Master, Vasquez
NOES: Commissioners none
ABSENT: Commissioners none
ABSTAIN: Commissioner Mic kelson MOTION CARRIED
CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT 1251 - FAITH FELLOWSHIP:
A request to operate a church with associated classrooms in an
existing industrial building on land lcoated on the south side of
Struck Avenue approximately 662 feet east of the centerline of
Batavia Street. (NOTE: This project is exempt from Environmental
Review.)
L~
Jere Nlurphy presented this application to the Commission, stating that
this property is a rectangular shaped parcel containing approximately
2.5 acres located on the south side of Struck Avenue approximately 662
feet west of the centerline of Batavia Street. The property is zoned
M-2 (Industrial) and is part of an existing industrial center. This
property is completely surrounded by industrial uses in the M-2 zone.
Mr. Murphy explained that the total building square footage is 11,792,
with the proposed sanctuary being 2,.700 square feet (270 seats). The
applicant proposes to operate a church with classrooms and banquet
facility in an existing industrial building located at the northwest
corner of the existing industrial center for a period of 4-6 years.
Staff has reviewed the proposal and is concerned with the suitability
of the proposed use for the existing zoning; the capability of the
proposed use with the existing surrounding uses; the necessity to
restore the structure for industrial use; and the tenants of surrounding
uses present or future who should be made aware that their adjacent
parking spaces may be committed to church use on .Sundays and Wednesdays.
c
It is recommended that the findings of the Environmental Review Board
to file Negative Declaration 809 be accepted.
Staff recommends denial of Conditional Use Permit 1251 for three reasons:
1. The existing facility was designed and approved for industrial
use only - not as an assembly area for a relatively large amount
of people. This necessitates a great deal of interior modifica-
tions making it difficult to reconvert the structure back to an
industrial use when the church finds a more suitable permanent
location.
2. The users of the proposed church could be subjected to high levels
of noise and other potentially obnoxious impacts because of the
surrounding industrial uses.
3. Although there is sufficient parking for the church on Sundays
and weeknights at this point in time, this situation could
deteriorate if the industrial users expanded their operations
to include weeknights and Sundays or the church expanded its
use to weekdays.
Planning Commission Minutes
January 3, 1983
Page Thirteen
Should the Planning Commission approve Conditional Use Permit 1251,
the 9 special conditions and 5 standard conditions listed in the
Staff Report are recommended, with the figure of 150 feet stated in
Condition #9 being changed to 30U feet.
Commissioner Vasquez asked for clarification of special Condition #l,
stating that the proposed meetings on Saturdays be eliminated. He
wondered what meetings are being proposed. Mr. Murphy explained that
there is a Saturday morning breakfast meeting which would include
about 60 people.
Commissioner Hart asked what the parking requirements are for the
industrial use herein and Mr. P1urphy responded that it would be 24
spaces.
Chairman Mickelson opened the public hearing.
Scott Camp, a resident of Orange Park Acres and pastor of the Faith
Fellowship church, addressed the Commission in favor of this applica-
tion, explaining that he had submitted a letter to the Commission,
addressing the specific points mentioned in the Staff Report. He
referred to page 4 of the Staff Report, the second recommendation re-
garding high levels of noise and other potentially obnoxious impacts,
and explained that they are presently operating at Villa Park High
School, where they are getting very obnoxious noises from their
parking lot when they are meeting. He pointed out that they are a
very tolerant congegration and are accustomed to unusual noises in
the surrounding area. They can live with the noise from the surrounding
industrial area.
Mr. Camp again referred to page 4, Special Condition #1, proposing that
their Saturday morning meetings be eliminated, explaining that this is
a men's breakfast. They have been having these meetings for the past
four months and top number of those attending has been 36, with an
average of 22. He said that he has received a letter from the landlord
that he would give the congregation 40 spaces for their Saturday
morning meetings and they can live with this restriction.
Referring to page 5, Condition #4, "That the church use be approved for
a maximum of two years. Any proposed extension of this time would
- be subject to the approval of the Planning Commission.", Mr. Camp ex-
~. plained that they have several concerns about this. It is difficult
to say now that they can automatically expect future approval. However,
they feel that there are sufficient measures that the Commission can
use to bring them into compliance or revoke their permit. They have
a significant investment which they will be making in this building
and they would have a difficult time amortizing this cost in a two-year
period of time. He explained that they are seeking a four-year permit.
Mr. Camp then told the Commission that other points in the Staff Report
have been covered in his letter. Their goal is not to just get into a
building, but to extend their ministry in the area.
Commissioner Hart asked where the 40 spaces would be that the
landlord is giving for Saturday mornings and I~1r. Camp explained that
they will be using Building 7. At the north side of that building and
the east side combined there are 24 spaces. There are 9 spaces at
Building 4, which is directly east of them. He assumed that these nine
spaces and the others they need will be directly north of Building 4
right on Struck. Commissioner Hart had a problem with this since these
spaces are assigned to those buildings. Mr. Camp said that they re-
ceived a standard lease and there are no particular parking spaces
~' designated in the lease. The landlord has given the other tenants a
plot plan of the parking spaces to be used and asked for their comments
regarding the situation. He also pointed out that except for Saturday
mornings they are not requesting any additional spaces.
Planning Commission Minutes
January 3, 1983
Page Fourteen
Commissioner Vasquez echoed the same concerns as Commissioner Hart,
particularly in view of the fact that his experience told him that
in the past the police department would have to respond to calls on
Sunday when parking spaces had been usurped. He would hate to see
the church members get into a confrontation in this kind of a
siutation.
Mr. Camp explained that the landlord has assured them of the cooperation
of both himself and the other tenants. They have solicited these kinds
of objections from the tenants and have received no objections of any
kind.
Steven Wong, 2763 Pine Creek Circle, Fullerton, one of the owners of
the Batavia Glen Industrial Park, addressed the Commission in favor of
this application. He explained that under the lease with their other
tenants, parking is in common with all tenants in the park. He read
from his general lease the part which explained this situation. In
the spaces which they have allocated for Sunday, they find that there
always seems to be adequate space. They do not find a problem in
this matter. He pointed out that as landlords they do not wish to
antagonize or infringe on the rights of their other tenants. They
agree with Condition 5 on page 5 of the Staff Report reading: "That
the interior modifications be approved by the Fire and Building
~~
Departments prior to occupancy. They would like to see this done
since their other buildings are sprinklered and this would provide them
with better protection.
Mr. Wong felt that Condition 8 on page 5 of the Staff Report, reading:
"That the church provide personnel on the parking lot during its use to
direct parishioners to designated parking and preclude the use of
adjacent parking lots or other industrial lots in the area." should
also be retained since they feel that the tenant should police their
own people rather than they, as landlords, doing this. They are in
favor of the CUP.
Chairman Mickelson asked if they have completed their lease agreement
with the church and Mr. Wong stated that they have done this, subject
to approval of the CUP. Chairman Mickelson said that Conditions 5 and 8
could be added to the lease agreement. Mr. Camp spoke to these two
conditions, stating that they are in agreement with both of them, but
would like advice from the Commission as to how to proceed with regard
to the parking condition.
There being no one else to speak for or against .this application, the
Chairman closed the public hearing.
Chairman Mickelson asked if the industrial park is leased out except
for this building and Mr. Wong responded that Building 8 is entirely
occupied except for A. Building 4 is fully occupied. They have cir-
culated a letter to all of their tenants regarding the negotiation of
this lease and their parking needs. No one in the park has commented
on this.
Commissioner Vasquez asked if Mr. Wong had described to his tenants what
is being proposed and the numbers of parishioners that would attending
meetings in the building. Mr. Wong presented a copy of the letter
which was sent to all of his tenants, reading portions of the letter to
the Commission, wherein it was stated when the meetings would be held
and which parking spaces would be needed. This letter was dated
December 14th. Commissioner Vasquez then asked Mr. Murphy if the police
department has reviewed this project and Mr, Murphy replied in the
affirmative, stating that the police department has expressed the most
~,~ concerns about compatibility of this use in the industrial area.
Planning Commission Minutes
January 3, 1983
Page Fifteen
Mr. Camp again addressed the Commission, stating that Staff had
described the concerns of the police department to them and Mr.
Camp had gone to Officer Ramm and discussed this situation with him.
Officer Ramm had said that he believed they were doing everything
they could do to make the situation work,
Commissioner Coontz felt that the requirement that there be monitoring
was a good idea. She did not think that barricades in themselves are
sufficient. She did not see a reason to eliminate the Saturday
morning meetings and felt that this was a reasonable application.
Moved by Commissioner Master, seconded by Commissioner Coontz to
accept the findings of the Environmental Review Board to file Negative
Declaration 809.
AYES: Commissioners Coontz, Hart, Master, Mickelson, Vasquez
NOES: Commissioners none
ABSENT: Commissioners none MOTION CARRIEU
Moved by Commissioner Coontz, seconded by Commissioner Master to
approve Conditional Use Permit 1251, subject to all of the special
conditions listed in the Staff Report, together with the standard
conditions listed therein, except to eliminate Condition #l; also
that use of the building should be maximum of four years with
revocation taking place at that time if conditions are not met, as
listed, or a renewal of the lease at that time; and that the figure
Stated in Condition #9 be changed from 150 feet to 300 feet from the
church use.
AYES: Commissioners Coontz, Hart, Master, Mickelson, Vasquez
NOES: Commissioners none
ABSENT: Commissioners none MOTION CARRIED
Chairman Mickelson suggested that Mr. Wong notify his tenants of the
Saturday morning meetings, as well as the other meetings.
Commissioner Vasquez commented that in the county this is becoming a
very common occurrence where churches are moving into industrial areas.
His concern was that we need to take a look at some of the long term
repercussions of expansion in these areas. He felt that Staff could
offer an overview in an informal way of how this type of expansion
hi
h
s
t
can affect the community. Chairman Mickelson concurred wit
concern and requested that this be a topic of discussion at the next
study session.
Commissioner Vasquez said that his major concerns were with lighting
and police not being able to discern between legal and illegal persons
in the area. Commissioner Hart felt that the self-policing system
in the parking lot is a good thing and could keep the problems down.
IN RE: MISCELLANEOUS:
MOBILE HOME PARK POLICIES - CITY OF ORANGE:
Consideration of Mobile Home Park policy formulation and recommendations
of the Housing Advisory Committee.(Referred to the Housing Advisory
Committee and the City Planning Commission at the City Council,
October 12, 1982 hearing.)
Jere Murphy presented this recommendation to the Commission, stating
that on October 12th the City Council acted to refer the report from
Mayor Beam (a copy of which had been given to the Commissioners) to
both the Housing Advisory Committee and Planning Commission to begin
the process of formulating policies for Council adoption.
• v
Planning Commission h1inutes
January 3, 1983
Page Sixteen
At their meeting of November 10th, the Housing Advisory Committee
reviewed and discussed the report. The Committee agreed with the
recommended policies and actions, with the exception of the action
pertaining to mobile home relocation parks.
Mr. Murphy pointed out that the Committee agrees with the policy that
the construction of a new relocation park is both infeasible and
impractical. However, the Committee felt that the recommended action
to establish a park proposed for conversion as a temporary shelter
park for a specified length of time is too rigid a requirement. The
reasoning is that such a requirement may not even be necessary in all
conversion projects or that the extended time periods may vary ac-
cording to individual and unique circumstances associated with a
particular park. In short, the Committee feels. that the concept
should be kept in mind as a negotiating tool when considering future
conversions, but that it should be flexible in nature. Additionally,
it was felt that the other policy and action recommendations relating
to tenant relocation assistance in general are flexible enough to
accommodate any time extensions which may be warranted.
~. The Housing Advisory Committee moved to recommend that the City
Council adopt all the policy and action recommendations contained in
Mayor Beam's report of October 7, vdith the exception of the action
recommendation at the bottom of page 4 pertaining to the establishment
of a park proposed for conversion as a temporary shelter park for a
certain specified length of time. Further, that the Council direct
Staff to prepare the necessary resolution for Council adoption.
Commissioner Coontz said that she agreed with the Housing Advisory
Committee and felt that they had done a good job.
Moved by Commissioner Coontz, seconded by Commissioner Master to
recommend acceptance of the Housing Advisory Committee's assessment
of mobile home park policies and concur in their findings.
AYES: Commissioners Coontz, Hart, Master, h1ickelson, Vasquez
NOES: Commissioners none
ABSENT: Commissioners none MOTION CARRIED
IN RE: ADJOURNMENT
The meeting was adjourned at 10:30 p.m. to be reconvened to a regular
meeting on Monday, January 17, 1983 at 7:30 p.m, at the Civic Center
Council Chambers, 300 East Chapman Avenue, Orange, California.
d