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HomeMy WebLinkAbout1a - Changes Proposed by Chair Hillgren - Draft Minutes of 8/22/2013Changes proposed by Chair Hillgren NEWPORT BEACH PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES 8/22/2013 CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES Council Chambers — 100 Civic Center Drive Thursday, August 22, 2013 REGULAR MEETING 6:30 p.m. CALL TO ORDER - The meeting was called to order at 6:30 p.m. II. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE — CommissionerAmeri III. ROLL CALL PRESENT: Ameri, Brown, Hillgren, Kramer, Lawler, Myers, and Tucker ABSENT: None Staff Present: Brenda Wisneski, Deputy Community Development Director; Leonie Mulvihill, Assistant City Attorney; Marlene Burns, Administrative Assistant; Tony Brine, City Traffic Engineer; Jim Campbell, Principal Planner; Makana Nova, Assistant Planner; Rosalinh Ung, Associate Planner; Melinda Whelan, Assistant Planner; and Benjamin Zdeba, Assistant Planner d IV. ELECTION OF OFFICERS (CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS MEETING) 1. Appointment to the General Plan /LCP Committee a. Chair to appoint one additional member, and confirm existing appointments. Chair Hillgren reported that Commissioner Myers agreed to serve on the General Plan /LCP Committee. He announced the appointment of Commissioner Myers to said Committee. V. PUBLIC COMMENTS 1 Chair Hillgren invited those interested in addressing the Planning Commission to do so at this time. Jim Mosher commented on the public hearings to be heard this evening and staff's respective recommendations. He opined that City staff should be neutral in all applications and emphasized that conduct at the hearing can contribute to the public's perception of openness and due process. He reported that Planning Commission hearings are regarded as quasi - judicial hearings thereby requiring full disclosure of communications received and recommended full disclosure of Ex Parte communications. Regarding due process, he believed that the Planning Commission's decisions must be based on accurate facts and felt that once the initial public period is closed, if there are new facts presented, the public period should be reopened so that the public has a chance to rebut on the accuracy of the information. There being no others wishing to address the Planning Commission, Chair Hillgren closed the Public Comments portion of the meeting. VI. REQUEST FOR CONTINUANCES Deputy Community Development Director Wisneski reported receiving a request to continue Item No. 4, (Lido Villas - PA2012 -146). Chair Hillgren reported having conversations with the applicant, noted the importance of the matter for the City and indicated preference for having a presentation by staff, presently, to allow the Commission to understand the felated rip mary issues in order to facilitate their review of the materials in advance of the meeting to be held on September 5th. The applicants agreed and Chair Hillgren requested reordering the agenda to move Item No. 4 (Lido Villas - PA2012 -146) as well as the Item No. 5 (Housing Element Update — PA2012 -104) before Item No. 3 (Uptown Newport MSDR — PA2013 -129), in the interest of time. Page 1 of 12 NEWPORT BEACH PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES 8/22/2013 Commissioner Kramer commented on a prior case under similar circumstances at 407 East Balboa Boulevard. Mr. Zdeba noted that the property was considered prior to the adoption of the new Zoning Code and commented on the specific circumstances considered at the time. He further clarified that the modification permit granted under the old Zoning Code to 407 East Balboa Boulevard allowed an addition consistent with what is allowed by right in the new Zoning Code. Commissioner Kramer commented on other physical features of the property. Commissioner Ameri expressed sympathy for the applicant but felt that there are ways to reach the applicant's intent without having to demolish the property. He addressed the Planning Commission's limit to authority in terms of the ability change the Code. He expressed concerns with setting a precedent. Commissioner Myers commented on the need to revise the resolution and continue the matter. Assistant City Attorney Leonie Mulvihill reported that if the intent of the Commission is to consider a resolution for approval, it could be approved at this time if sufficient information is provided to have staff develop a resolution for approval. The maker of the motion would need to articulate the finding;.,` _4% a Commissioner Kramer indicated he cannot support the findings and will vote against the motion Chair Hillgren stated that he encouraged the redevelopment of the property but cannot support the findings. He; noted that the code allows for reasonable expansion of the property but expressed concerns with hat the proposal to h Ave the °t^ ^t^•° hu If t° th° °liminate the front setback 4neis inconsistent with the primary goal of the zoning code. He indicated support for the applicant's efforts to improve the property but stressed the need to comply with the goals of the code. Motion made by Commissioner Myers and seconded by Commissioner Brown and failed (2 — 5), to deny adoption of Resolution No. 1918 denying Variance No. VA2013 -002 and support issuance of the variance based on the fact that unique circumstances and conditions exist on the property and that strict compliance with the Zoning Code would deprive the subject property of privileges enjoyed by other properties in the vicinity and the granting of a variance is necessary for the preservation and enjoyment of the property rights of the applicant and will not constitute special privilege or be inconsistent with zoning and will not be detrimental to the neighborhood. Facts in support would be that the property has been in existence for seventy -three (73) years. Special circumstances would include that the property was built prior to significant zoning changes, is currently well- maintained and that compliance with the Zoning Code would constitute an economic hardship for the homeowners. AYES: Brown and Myers NOES: Ameri, Hillgren, Kramer, Lawler, and Tucker Motion made by Vice Chair Tucker and seconded by Commissioner Kramer and carried (5 — 2), to adopt Resolution No. 1918 denying Variance No. VA2013 -002. AYES: Ameri, Hillgren, Kramer, Lawler, and Tucker NOES: Brown and Myers Page 4 of 12 NEWPORT BEACH PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES 8/22/2013 ITEM NO. 3 UPTOWN NEWPORT MSDR (PA2013 -129) Site Location: 4311 -4321 Jamboree Road Commissioner Lawler reported a business interest with a property located near the subject property and recused himself from hearing the aforementioned time and requested being excused for the remainder of the meeting. Commissioner Lawler's request was granted and he departed the chambers at this time. Associate Planner Rosalinh Ung presented details of the report and addressed approved entitlements for the project, identification of a two -phase process, the purpose of the Master Site Development Review, and compliance with zoning documents. She addressed architectural focal points at each end of the entry drive at the Fairchild intersection and recommendations that the Planning Commission review these for compliance with applicable provisions. She referenced written comments received from Jim Mosher and noted that the Zoning Administrator recently approved a Tentative Parcel Map to subdivide the existing two (2) parcels into four (4) parcels. She noted that no development for improvements are proposed as part of the application and as a condition of approval, a Tentative Parcel Map cannot be recorded until the Master Site application is approved by the Planning Commission; therefore, the legal description stated in the draft resolution is valid. She presented recommendations as stated in the report. In response to Chair Hillgren's inquiry and concern regarding the commission's ability to act without receipt of copies of the finalized agreements from the previous public hearings, Ms. Ung clarified that the Commission is being asked to review all of the architectural design including landscaping, lighting, fencing, grading, and site improvements as a Master Development for the entire project. She added that staff is seeking direction regarding the architectural design of the main entryways. Discussion followed regarding review of the environmental effects. Ms. Ung explained that the Commission is not being asked to review environmental issues, just merely recognize the previously- approved environmental document and the legal statement for noticing purposes and action at this time. She noted that the Commission previously considered and approved the environmental impact review report for this project. Ensuing discussion pertained to ensuring that the plans are reviewed against the proper materials. Ms. Ung explained the Master Site Development Review requirements are stated within the zoning documents. Chair Hillgren reported that he does not have the final version of the documents needed to evaluate the matter and is not as prepared as he would like to be. Vice Chair Tucker commented on the plans he was able to review and questioned if staff has checked them in relation to the Design Guidelines. He noted that the Planning Commission has reviewed and has acted on many of the plans and emphasized the need to review the architectural building elevations. Commissioner Ameri addressed previous consideration of and actions related to the project. He noted that the main concerns at this time relate to the architectural building elevations. He indicated that the intention is not to restart the process or reconsider the elements in the plans, but rather consider the architecture elements in core areas and review the proposed building materials. Chair Hillgren reiterated his concern that what is being reviewed is- whaicompared with what was previously approved. Chair Hillgren invited the applicant to address the Planning Commission. Bill Shopoff, The Shopoff Group, provided a PowerPoint presentation addressing background, project approvals received, attempts at and agreements in order to be good neighbors, and elements of the Master Development Site Plan. He addressed the purpose of the review to ensure that the plan is proceeding in a Page 8 of 12 NEWPORT BEACH PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES 8/22/2013 consistent manner and complies with the PC text and in conformance with applicable regulations. He noted prior meetings with staff and neighbors and addressed changes made including enhancements to "paseos," pedestrian access, access to retail uses, and setbacks. Trent Noll of Valley Crest addressed the Landscape Plan including proposed trees along the spine street, canopy trees, planting of parkways, secondary streets leading into the neighborhood, turn - around areas and details of the two (2) proposed parks and private amenity opportunities. He presented details of the phase - one park plan consists of a promenade for activities, a multipurpose lawn and stage, multipurpose gathering areas, and access from the residential units to the parks. Kendall Nilmeier of MVE explained how the building elevations and architecture are reflective of the Design Guidelines. He identified retail zones, amenity spaces, and opportunities for street activation. He noted the attempts at fitting in with the existing commercial zone by using strong, predominantly contemporary styles in architecture to blend in with the environment. He addressed massing and composition, the entry at Fairchild, and design elements of the various building elevations. Mr. Nilmeier addressed the use enhanced materials, the architectural elements for fagades, and referenced color and material boards submitted for the Planning Commission's consideration. Vice Chair Tucker asked regarding the composition of the primary building materials and it was noted that they are primarily plaster and stucco. Mr. Nilmeier stated that a range of options are available for the materials and noted the enhanced materials identified. Members of the Planning Commission carefully reviewed the color and materials boards at this juncture. Commissioner Kramer commended the applicant for committing to use enhanced materials. He expressed concerns regarding the corner entrance on Jamboree and Fairchild and felt that it should be an iconic entrance and that enhancements are needed in the design for that portion of the project. He commented on the "institutional" look of the building similar to what would exist in Irvine and felt that further consideration should be given to the design. Chair Hillgren commended the applicant on the quality and level of detail in the color and materials board and reiterated his concern of not having the current set of criteria to compare with what is being proposed. He commented positively on the massing of the buildings and overall articulation of the architecture but had concerns ISSUP and �A ;on eFed regarding the cohesiveness and theme of the architecture. He agreed with Commissioner Kramer's comment regarding the "institutional" look of Building 2 — particularly at the Jamboree entrance which looks more like a business campus than a residential town center. Head commented positively on the quality of materials and encouraged enhanced architecture at ground levels of buildings where the quality will best serve residents and visitors. He noted that the rernrnAnts are rneant-tG be constructive an He addressed the need for good connections to the Koll Center properties in order to achieve a successful mixed use environment and does not believe the plans presented achieve this as well as they could. He addressed signage and the need for using better quality materials which are consistent with the overall quality of the projectfor same He noted that all comments are meant to be constructive and believed the commission has consistently made comments and recommendations intended to improve the overall success of the project. Commissioner Brown envisioned areas where people can connect such as outdoor cafes, delis, and specialized grocery stores. He commented positively regarding the plans for the parks and felt that providing a sense of cohesion and that representing the area as a "town" would be beneficial. Mr. Shopoff addressed leasing and commercial areas and noted the need to place retail areas on the exterior with visibility, signalization, and activity. Commissioner Ameri felt that what was presented at this time is a huge improvement over what was previously presented and was glad that many of the recommendations made by the Planning Commission were implemented. He addressed undulation in the buildings and the fagades and hoped that the building materials used will be of the best quality. He stated that this is not an extension of another residential Page 9 of 12 NEWPORT BEACH PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES 8/22/2013 community and felt that the developer has done a good job of transitioning from the Koll Center area to residential areas. He felt that the architectural variety will help to differentiate the buildings. Commissioner Ameri commented on the public facilities near the park areas as well as residential amenities. He commented positively on the architecture and building materials, overall. Mr. Shopoff reported that it is expected that retail uses will include food services for residents as well as commercial neighbors. Vice Chair Tucker commented positively on the project, overall and the execution of the Master Site improvements. He expressed concerns regarding the individual buildings and what they will look like since the applicant will not be constructing them. He indicated acceptance for the elevations for the interior of the project but expressed concerns with Buildings 1 and 2. He felt that there should be another vertical element in the mid -block area of enhanced materials on Building 1, Elevation C, but felt that smooth plaster should not be used along the buildings fronting Jamboree. He suggested deleting smooth plaster as an enhanced material along the Jamboree building frontage and adding "other enhanced - quality material ". He noted that the Planning Commission has already approved the site plan. Mr. Shopoff agreed with Vice Chair Tucker's suggestion regarding the use of smooth plaster and addressed adding a vertical element on Building 1. Chair Hillgren commented positively on the design but expressed concerns regarding the entry drive for building #2. 1 �� Vice Chair Tucker reiterated that need to make the building look less "institutional." Interested parties were invited to address the Planning Commission on this matter. Jim Mosher reminded the Commission that every other action related to the project has been a recommendation that went to Council. He noted that the action tonight will be final and suggested the Commission consider continuing the item to a later meeting in order to address all of the issues necessary to make an informed decision. He commented on the transfer of school district jurisdiction and Mr. Shopoff's assertion that he would be working with them regarding the matter, but that they have not been contacted by Mr. Shopoff. He hoped that the Commission will consider commitments rather than just promises. There being no others wishing to address the Planning Commission, Chair Hillgren closed the public hearing. Chair Hillgren reiterated that he does not have the current criteria with which to compare the proposed architecture and indicated that he is not prepared to act at this time. Vice Chair Tucker recommended changing Sheet A -3 to include the proper text and more of the enhanced materials shown. He suggested language for the text including enhanced materials/ finish shall include brick, stone, tile, fiber smith panels or other similarly enhanced quality materials and deleting smooth plaster from the list. He referenced Building 2 Frontages F and E and suggested the use of more enhanced materials. Commissioner Ameri reiterated his understanding that the item for consideration at this time is the review of the architectural design and building materials. He agreed with Vice Chair Tucker's recommendations and felt that the Commission should be able act based on the addition of those recommendations. He did not feel the Commission should delay the project by reviewing the additional enhancements recommended. He felt that what is presented is a "flavor" of what the Commission wants and that the buildings will most likely go through a redesign process in the future. He stated that the City would be obligated to ensure that the design concepts are followed. He indicated that he is satisfied with what has been presented. Motion made by Commissioner Ameri to adopt draft resolution finding that all environmental effects of the Uptown Newport Planned Community have been previously addressed by the certification of Environmental Impact Report No. ER2012 -001 (SCH No. 2010051094) and approving Master Site Development Review No. SD2013 -002 with changes as recommended by per discussion above. Page 10 of 12 NEWPORT BEACH PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES 8/22/2013 Chair Hillgren commented on the amount of work done by the applicant and the responsibility of the Planning Commission. He noted the need for any motion to be specific regarding what the Commission wants. Commissioner Ameri indicated his desire to move the project forward. The motion died for lack of a second. Commissioner Brown felt that there needs to be a clarification as to who determines whether or not what is being proposed is consistent with the PC text. He stated that if that task belongs to the Commission, there needs to be additional information provided. Discussion followed regarding the need for staff to review the plan carefully. Vice Chair Tucker did not feel he needs to see the documents but acknowledged there is a lot of material to review and agreed to continue the matter to allow an opportunity for detailed review of the documents and criteria with which to compare the architectural design proposed. AL Ms. Wisneski reported that it is staffs role to ensure that the project complies with the PC text. Commissioner Ameri noted that the Commission trusts the research conducted by staff and felt that if the Commission decides to continue the item because it does not feel the project is consistent with what was approved, then the Commission is questioning staffs capabilities. ,' 1. Commissioner Kramer stated he would like the applicant to enhance the entrance to be more iconic and create a less "institutional" look on Building 2 using a higher level of enhancements and finishes. Commissioner Ameri suggested modifying the motion to include a caveat that subsequent discussion will be limited to the consistency of the project with the PC text and the use of architectural enhancements and building materials. Chair Hillgren noted various issues discussed and needing to be addressed and reported that the Commission will vote within two (2) weeks based on the changes made and consistency with the PC text. Motion made by Commissioner Kramer and seconded by Vice Chair Tucker and carried (6 — 0 — 1) to continue the matter to the Planning Commission meeting of September 5, 2013, and direct the applicant to implement as proposed and discussed above. AYES: Ameri, Brown, Hillgren, Kramer, Myers, and Tucker NOES: None RECUSED: Lawler IX. STAFF AND COMMISSIONER ITEMS ITEM NO. 6 MOTION FOR RECONSIDERATION - None ITEM NO. 7 COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR'S REPORT Committee Updates: 1. Land Use Element Amendment Advisory Committee Ms. Wisneski presented a brief update on the Land Use Element Amendment Advisory Committee noting that they met last week and listed items considered. She announced a Public Information meeting on September 9, 2013, and the cancellation of the City Council meeting of August 27, 2013. 2. General Plan /Local Coastal Program Implementation Committee Page 11 of 12