HomeMy WebLinkAboutAgenda Packet - CC - 2009.03.21 AGENDA
BURL®E
Joint City Council/Planning Commission Meeting
Saturday, March 21, 2009—9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
Burlingame Public Library—Lane Community Room
i 480 Primrose Road—Burlingame, California
L CALL TO ORDER
II. ROLL CALL
A. City Council
B. Planning Commission
III. MEETING OVERVIEW
IV. STATUS OF CITY COUNCIL WORK PROGRAM ITEMS FOR PLANNING DIVISION/PLANNING
COMMISSION(FY 2008-2009) (See Attachment)
A. Overview of Work Program
B. Items Completed
C. Items Outstanding
D. Review of Key Indicators for FY 2008-2009
V. REVIEW OF DRAFT CITY COUNCIL GOALS RELATED TO PLANNING/ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
FOR FY 2009-2010(See Attachment)
A. Permit Increased Density in New Multi-Family Housing (New)
B. Encourage the Downtown Burlingame Business Association to Re-establish the Business
Improvement District(BID) and Work with Downtown Property Owners and Businesses for
Increased Accountability in Regard to Cleanliness in Front of, and in Back of Properties/Explore
Additional Fees from Property Owners to Assist in Funding Infrastructure Improvements Downtown
(New)
C. Change the Process to Ensure that People Adding Large Heating/Air Conditioning Units on
Rooftops are Required to Provide an Attractive Way of Shielding Them Visually from
Neighbors/Ask the Planning Commission's Neighborhood Consistency Subcommittee to Look at
How Green Building Issues mesh with Design Issues and How to Strike a Balance Between These
Two Goals(New)
NOTICE: A copy of the agenda packet, including any writings or documents provided to a majority of the City Council and
Planning Commission regarding any item on this agenda, will be made available for public inspection during normal business
hours(Monday through Friday—8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.)at the Community Development Department—Planning Division counter
and City Clerk's Office at City Hall — 501 Primrose Road, Burlingame, California. Visit the City's web-site at:
www.burliagame.orq. Agendas and minutes are also available at this site. Any attendees wishing accommodations for
disabilities,please contact the City Clerk at 650.558.7203 at least 24-hours in advance of the meeting.
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AGENDA
a�R Joint City Council/Planning Commission Meeting
Saturday, March 21, 2009—9:00 a.m. to 12.00 p.m.
D. Provide Searchable Audio Copies of Planning Commission Meetings Online for Web Streaming
and Listening after Meetings (New)
E. Create Below-Market Housing Options for Citizens Who Are Not Well Served by Current Available
Housing Stock, such as Seniors Who Want to Downsize, Younger Residents Who Want to Buy
Their First Home, Safety Personnel and Teachers (Carry-Over FY 08-09)
F. Encourage and Facilitate Movement on the New Safeway Proposal(Carry-Over FY 08-09)
G. Work with the Economic Development Specialist to Develop an Economic Development Program,
and Research and Recommend Incentives to Promote Economic Development(Carry-Over FY 08-
09)
H. Look for Ways to Encourage Public Art as part of New Development(Carry-Over FY 08-09)
1. Research and Recommend Options for Better Use of City-Owned Parking Lots (Carry-Over FY 08-
09)
VI, ADDITIONAL SUGGESTED WORK PROGRAM ITEMS(See Attachment)
A. Consider Creating Greater Flexibility in the City's Parking Standards
B. Consider Requiring Design Review for Properties Lying within R-2, R-3 and R-4 Zoning Districts
VII. OTHER DISCUSSION TOPICS(See Attachment)
A. The Role of Planning Commissioners when They Disagree with City Council Decisions
B. The Appeal Process, including Planning Commissioner Appeals of Commission Decisions
C. Exhibits Provided to the City Council for Appeals of Planning Commission Decisions
D. Specification of Architectural Styles for Neighborhoods
E. Food Service Uses within the Burlingame Avenue Commercial Area, Subarea A
r
copy of the agenda packet, including any writings or documents provided to a majority of the City Council and
mmission regarding any item on this agenda, will be made available for public inspection during normal business
day through Friday—8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.)at the Community Development Department—Planning Division counter
Clerk's Office at City Hall — 501 Primrose Road, Burlingame, California. Visit the City's web-site at.ame.o Agendas and minutes are also available at this site. Any attendees wishing accommodations for
please contact the City Cleric at 650.558.7203 at least 24-hours in advance of the meeting.
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AGENDA
RURLINGAME Joint City Council/Planning Commission Meeting
r-- Saturday, March 21, 2009- 9:00 a.m, to 12.00 p.m.
M. FROM THE FLOOR
AT THIS TIME, PERSONS IN THE AUDIENCE MAY SPEAK ON ANY ITEM ON THE AGENDA OR ANY
OTHER MATTER WITHIN THE JURISDICATION OF THE CITY COUNCIL AND/OR PLANNING
COMMISSION. THE RALPH M. BROWN ACT (THE STATE LOCAL AGENCY OPEN MEETING LAW)
PROHIBITS THE COUNCIL AND/OR PLANNING COMMISSION FRON ACTING ON ANY MATTER THAT
IS NOT ON THE AGENDA. SPEAKERS MAYBE LIMITED TO THREE MINUTES EACH.
IX. ESTABLISHMENT OF WORK PLAN PRIORITIES FOR THE FY 2009-2010 PLANNING
DIVISION/PLANNING COMMISSION WORK PROGRAM
X. ADJOURNMENT
NEXT MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL WILL BE ON MONDAY, APRIL 6, 2009
NEXT MEETING OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION WILL BE ON MONDAY MARCH 23 2009
NOTICE: A copy of the agenda packet, including any writings or documents provided to a majority of the City Council and
Planning Commission regarding any item on this agenda, will be made available for public inspection during normal business
hours(Monday through Friday—8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.)at the Community Development Department—Planning Division counter
and City Clerk's Office at City Hall — 501 Primrose Road, Burlingame, California. Visit the City's web-site at:
www.budingame.oL. Agendas and minutes are also available at this site. Any attendees wishing accommodations for
disabilities,please contact the City Clerk at 650.558.7203 at least 24-hours in advance of the meeting.
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Joint City Council/Planning Commission Meeting
BURLINGAMF 2009 Annual Work Program Meeting
.14 BACKGROUND MEMORANDUM
DATE: March 16, 2009
TO: Mayor and City Council
Planning Commission
FROM: William Meeker, Community Development Dir`ec o
SUBJECT: AGENDA ITEM IV — Status of FY 2008-2009 Work Program Items
OVERVIEW
While FY 2007-2008 was characterized as a "transitional" year for the Community Development
Department with the hiring of the City's first Community Development Director, and retirement of
the City Planner; FY 2008-2009 is notable for continued efforts to strengthen the Community
Development Department team, continued work on the "Burlingame Downtown Specific Plan";
as well as the update of the City's "Housing Element". Additionally, the past year saw the
initiation of the City's economic development program with the hiring of the City's first Economic
Development Specialist. Finally, the department remains focused on ensuring that the City is
perceived as "business friendly". Along with the Community Development Director, the City's
Planning Manager, Chief Building Official and Economic Development Specialist have
continued to focus upon improving the ongoing dialog between departments involved in the
development review process through a continuation of weekly development review meetings
involving all departments involved in the review process; and additionally by encouraging "pre-
application" meetings with project proponents intended to further streamline the development
review process by minimizing delays and preventing "surprises" from occurring later in the
development process.
The upcoming year will see the completion of the Burlingame Downtown Specific Plan; with
adoption anticipated in the fall of 2009. The Community Development Department is "on-track"
to complete the update of the City's Housing Element well within the State-mandated deadline
of June 30, 2009. Of course, adoption of the Specific Plan and Housing Element is not the
conclusion of both planning efforts; the upcoming year will see work undertaken to implement
the policies contained within the adopted documents. The implementation program is
anticipated to take in excess of one-year to complete. Given the current economic conditions
and the City's finances; these efforts will be undertaken by internal staff rather than by paid
consultants. This approach will not only save money for the City, and with an anticipated
reduction in "current planning" activities due to the economic crisis, will provide the opportunity
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2009 Annual Work Program Meeting
Background: Agenda Item IV
for the staff of the Planning Division expand its professional repertoire by working on "long-
range" planning projects.
Attached to this memorandum are three documents that provide a quick overview and status
report of the activities of the Planning Division over the course of the past fiscal year:
• Key Indicators
■ Workload Statistics
■ Major Projects List
Notable Accomplishments: As referenced earlier in this memorandum, in the past year work
has continued on the Burlingame Downtown Specific Plan. The effort has taken somewhat
longer than anticipated due to the staff and consultant team's efforts to ensure that the Citizen's
Advisory Committee (CAC) remains engaged in the process, and opportunities for the
community, Planning Commission and City Council to weigh in on the direction of the planning
effort through the use of study sessions to review the progress of the plan.
As of the date of preparation of this memorandum, work on the Housing Element update is
nearing conclusion. The draft document was reviewed by the Planning Commission in
February, 2009 and is scheduled for a public hearing before the City Council on March 16,
2009. Following review by the City Council, the draft document will be submitted to the
California Department of Housing and Community Development for review prior to City adoption
later this year.
Community Development Department staff has continued to take the lead in improving the
communication between departments and project proponents through the development review
process. In addition to the standing weekly development review meetings; staff now frequently
encourages applicants to take advantage of pre-application meetings to meet with staff to
discuss project proposals and resolve any potential issues up-front, rather than during the
review process. This approach has lead to the successful, rapid processing of a proposal to
open "Perry's" restaurant on Howard Avenue; the relocation of "Peets Coffee" from its current
location on Burlingame Avenue to a new location at Burlingame Avenue and Park Road, the
opening of "Ace Hardware on Park Road, the "Peter Pan BMW" service and parts facility on
Adrian Road, as well as various other new businesses in the Downtown area.
A key priority of the City Council over the past two-years has been to promote a business
friendly climate in the City and to promote new economic development. To that end, the
Community Development Director hired the City's first Economic Development staff person;
Economic Development Specialist Patricia Love, in mid-2008. Patricia is a key member of the
staff team charged with streamlining the development review process. Additionally, she has
made great strides in "putting a friendly face" on the City organization, as perceived by the local
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6URLINGAME 2009 Annual Work Program Meeting
6ackground� Agenda Item IV
business community, by serving as a point of contact, along with the Community Development
Director, for those parties having difficulty maneuvering the City's processes. The Economic
Development Subcommittee of the City Council (Mayor Keighran and Council Member Deal)
now meets on monthly basis with the Economic Development Specialist and Community
Development Director to review the status of various initiatives, and to "brainstorm" new ideas.
The Subcommittee and staff have reached out to key players in the City's business community
(e.g. hoteliers, auto dealers, Downtown and Broadway businesses) to determine if our ongoing
efforts are effective, and to solicit input regarding areas where the City can still make
improvements. Most recent information from Broadway and Burlingame Avenue property
owners and property managers have revealed that we are making great strides in improving the
perception of the City as a good place to do business. Attached is a summary of the progress
of economic development initiatives during the course of the past year.
The Community Development Director continues to serve as one of two representatives
(including the Public Works Director) to the C/CAG Congestion Management Plan Technical
Advisory Committee. Additionally, the Director agreed to participate as a member of C/CAG's
Technical Advisory Committee involved in the update of the County-Wide Transportation Plan.
ON THE HORIZON
With the economic downturn, the City has experienced a significant loss of revenues resulting in
the implementation of numerous cost-saving measures. In the upcoming year, the staff of the
Planning Division of the Community Development Department will be tasked with moving
forward on the implementation of the Burlingame Downtown Specific Plan and updated Housing
Element. In the past consultant services may have been used to assist in implementation
programs; however, in an effort to save costs and to provide further training of existing staff in
long-range planning activities; all of this work will be completed in-house. Attached is a
summary, prepared by Planning Manager Maureen Brooks, that provides an overview of the
steps required in the implementation of the updated Housing Element. Many of these tasks
overlap with policies that are anticipated to be included in the Burlingame Downtown Specific
Plan, and will likely result in some significant changes to zoning standards for the City,
particularly in the areas of affordable housing, parking and other development standards.
In addition to implementation of the resultant policies from the aforementioned planning
initiatives; Planning Division staff also intends to review elements of the 1969 General Plan and
identify areas where updates may be completed internally as a stop-gap measure to a full
update of the Plan. It is our intention to work with the City Manager, Finance Director and City
Attorney to develop a funding mechanism for a full update of the plan in the future.
Current economic times further emphasize the need for the City to strengthen its economic
development program. In the upcoming year, the Economic Development Specialist will
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192009 Annual Work Program Meeting
Background: Agenda Item IV
continue to build upon her relationships with the business community, and work closely with the
City's Economic Development Subcommittee on further initiatives intended to enhance the
City's commercial sector, and further enhance our reputation as a business-friendly community.
Finally, though there will be an emphasis on long-range planning efforts in the Planning
Division, current planning activities will continue to occupy a large portion of staff's time. Two
current-planning projects that will surely occupy a significant amount of staff time are the new
"Safeway" project and the proposal by Millennium Partners to re-develop the former drive-in
theatre site at 301 Beach Road/350 Airport Boulevard with a newt-million+ square foot office
development. Applications related to these two major projects are imminent and will require a
significant amount of staff time to coordinate an efficient review of both projects.
WORK PROGRAM STATUS
The following is a summary of the FY 2008-2009 Work Program items for the Planning
Division/Planning Commission, a priority classification, as well as a status report for each item.
WORK PROGRAM ITEM STATUS
Work with the new part-time Economic Development Specialist Patricia Love has
Economic Development formulated a series of priorities that have been presented
Specialist position to develop an to and endorsed by the Economic Development
economic development program; Subcommittee of the City Council. These priorities serve
research and recommend as her work program leading to the development of the
incentives to promote economic City's economic development program. Patricia continues
development, to provide periodic updates to the Economic Development
Subcommittee. Additionally, she has reached out to local
hoteliers to ascertain their concerns, and with the
Economic Development Subcommittee, has met with local
auto dealers to determine any assistance the City can offer
to ensure their vitality. The Economic Development
Subcommittee, Economic Development Specialist,
Community Development Director and City Manager met
with Downtown and Broadway business owners/agents on
February 27, 2009 to discuss their concerns given the
current business climate. Regular monthly meetings of the
Economic Development Subcommittee have been
scheduled (see attachment for further details on Economic
Development Division work program items).
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BURLINGAME 2009 Annual Work Program Meeting
Background: Agenda Item IV
WORK PROGRAM ITEM STATUS
Encourage and facilitate Staff has completed negotiations relative to a land swap
movement on a new Safeway for use of City parking lots"K" and"L"; the results of the
proposal. negotiations were presented at a Council Study Session
on February 17, 2009. On February 26, 2009, the City
Manager, Mayor Keighran and Vice-Mayor Baylock
attended a meeting with former members of the Safeway
Working Group to provide more information on the
Safeway-City negotiations. Safeway is expected to submit
their application in March 2009.
Create below-market rate housing As part of the update of the City's Housing Element(due
options for citizens who are not by June 30, 2009), the consultant performing the update
well served by current available has included discussion and analysis of any potential
housing stock, such as seniors below-market rate housing options for the City to consider
who want to downsize,younger as part of its implementation of the Housing Element when
residents who want to buy their adopted. The Planning Commission conducted a public
first home, safety personnel and hearing on the draft Housing Element on February 23,
teachers. 2009. The City Council is scheduled to conduct a public
hearing on the Element March 16, 2009. Implementation
of policies included in the adopted Element will proceed
following certification of the document by the California
Department of Housing and Community Development and
adoption by the City Council.
Review the current policies and This task was included in the work plan for FY 2008-2009,
regulations applying to infill as part of the update of the City's Housing Element. The
development and develop a Planning Commission conducted a public hearing on the
policy and proposed regulations draft Housing Element on February 23, 2009. The City
to ensure 'no net loss'of Council is scheduled to conduct a public hearing on the
residential units when new Element March 16, 2009. Implementation of policies
projects are proposed, and included in the adopted Element will proceed following
explore ways to incentivize certification of the document by the California Department
development of additional units. of Housing and Community Development and adoption by
the City Council.
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BURLINGAME 2009 Annual Work Program Meeting
Background: Agenda Item IV
WORK PROGRAM ITEM STATUS
Look for ways to encourage Discussions related to the Burlingame Downtown Specific
public art as part of new Plan have included a desire to include policies for the
development. provision of public art. It is anticipated that policies
identified in the specific plan process may have
applicability in other areas of the City as well. Work on the
Specific Plan is anticipated to be completed in the first half
of 2009; with adoption in the third quarter of 2009.
Look at options for better use of The location of structured parking downtown has been an
City parking lots;e.g. structured ongoing discussion as part of the preparation of the
parking, business buy-in to Burlingame Downtown Specific Plan. The discussion has
public parking. included not only the best locations for structured parking
(either above grade or below grade) and the opportunity to
leverage the City's assets by selling/leasing air rights
above parking lots to private developers. Work on the
Specific Plan is anticipated to be completed in the first half
of 2009; with adoption likely in the third quarter of 2009.
Include community education Former Santa Clara County Principal Planner Don Weden
forums as part of major planning provided his"Winds of Change" presentation to the
initiatives. Burlingame Community on October 29, 2008 at the Lane
Community Room. The presentation was attended by
approximately 15 members of the public. Staff will
continue to explore further opportunities for such forums
when the opportunity arises and funding is available.
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Joint City Council/Planning Commission Meeting
in2009 Annual Work Program Meeting
Background: Agenda /tern IV
WORK PROGRAM ITEM STATUS
Re-visit the Inclusionary Housing As part of the update of the City's Housing Element(due
Ordinance and explore creation by June 30, 2009), the consultant performing the update
of more below market-rate has included discussion and analysis of potential below-
options, market rate housing options, including strengthening the
City's Inclusionary Ordinance, for the City to consider. The
Planning Commission conducted a public hearing on the
draft Housing Element on February 23, 2009. The City
Council is scheduled to conduct a hearing on the
document March 16, 2009. Implementation of policies
included in the adopted Element will proceed following
certification of the document by the California Department
of Housing and Community Development and adoption by
the City Council.
Update the condominium Work has been completed to eliminate inconsistencies in
regulations. the City's condominium regulations related to policies in
the North Burlingame/Rollins Road Specific Plan and also
to address the conversion of stock cooperatives to
condominium form of ownership. Future analysis will
determine if further changes need to be made.
Attachments:
■ Key Indicators
■ Workload Statistics
■ Major Projects List
■ Status of Economic Development Initiatives
■ Housing Element Implementation
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E3URLING0."E 2009 Annual Work Program Meeting
PLANNING DIVISION KEY INDICATORS
1. Complete processing all current planning projects within the State-mandated
Permit Streamlining requirements.
There were 101 new planning applications subject to the State-mandated permit
streamlining requirements in 2008. California law requires that the Planning staff review
a project for completeness within 30 days of application submittal. In 2008, the average
time to get back to applicants regarding the completeness of their application was 20.7
days, a 13% decrease from the time taken in 2007. The review time for 14% of these
applications exceeded 30 days compared to 10% over 30 days in 2007. The increase in
the percentage exceeding the 30-day response in 2008 can be attributed to more
complex projects submitted for review, and overall workload earlier in the year when the
time limits were exceeded. In most of these cases, the review time was only 1 to 3 days
over the requirement.
2. Maintain the "ready and waiting" project back log for the Planning Commission
below 10 projects.
In 2007 the Planning Commission reviewed 231 project-related items. There was one
instance where a "ready and waiting"project was not included on the next available
agenda. The item was scheduled for the next meeting, and there were no more
backlogged items in 2008. All other items were able to be scheduled for the next
available Commission agenda. There has been a slight reduction in the overall workload
of new projects in 2008, and there continues to be a decline in the number of design
review submittals. The number of design review study items on any agenda continues
to be limited to four items, because these applications tend to take up more meeting
time.
3. Average 10 business days for Planning to complete their required plan checks for
the Building Division.
The Planning Department received 475 sets of plans to check for the Building Division in
2008. The average time to process plan checks for the Building Division was 8.6
business days. This is about the same turnaround time to complete the plan checks as
occurred in 2007(average of 8.48 business days)
4. Receive better than 85% rating of"excellent" on the customer quality and
timeliness of service survey.
This year, the overall "excellent"ratings in the four categories rated averaged 90%.
These four categories are: knowledge of regulations, knowledge of planning process,
service and courtesy. Customer surveys were mailed to all applicants and property
owners following Planning Commission action on their projects. In 2008, 164 pre-
stamped customer survey cards were mailed, and 15 cards were returned by recipients
(9916). All returned cards except one rated staff service and courtesy as excellent, so the
Division received 93% "excellent"rating in these two categories.
z Joint City Council/Planning Commission Meeting
EIURLINGAME 2009 Annual Work Program Meeting
?: PLANNING DIVISION WORKLOAD STATISTICS
Significant Workload Statistics
2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008
Commission Hearings:
Conditional Use Permit 32 32 37 42 32 26 19
Variances 28 44 29 36 42 31 32
Special Permits 34 32 31 37 33 26 30
Minor Modifications/HACP 28 9 22 36 28 11 12
Design Review 65 58 73 85 54 56 53
Permit Amendments n/a n/a n/a n/a 21 19 23
Other Agenda Items 45 22 20 42 17 33 18
Applications Reviewed 135 125 121 127 144 140 187
General Plan elements/amendments 0 1 2 0 1 1 0
Council agenda items requiring Planning 62 60 49 44 32 23 11
report
Negative declarations and EIRs 7 6 4 4 3 7 1
Business licenses checked 221 0 0 0 0 0 0
Home occupation permits checked 117 145 117 103 96 100 130
Plans checked 432 592 518 547 560 548 500
Code enforcements 41 16 15 53 22 35 35
Final Inspections n/a n/a n/a n/a 47 58 55
Permit amendments/FYI 8 4 3 12 39 56 31
Planner's Reports n/a n/a n/a n/a 40 12 15
Planning Commission Resolutions 122 103 107 126 126 110 102
Net New Dwelling Units -7 6 13 9 8 7 4
Replacement— Single Family Dwelling Units 14 8 9 8 23 12 7
New Affordable Dwelling Units Approved 0 0 0 3 7 5 1
New Affordable Dwelling Units Built 0 0 0 0 0 0 1
Major Projects in Process * n/a n/a n/a n/a 6 10 5
*Major Projects = require a Negative Declaration or EIR
Joint City Council/Planning Commission Meeting
BURLINGAME 2009 Annual Work Program Meeting
MAJOR PROJECTS LIST
Below is a list of major development projects in the City of Burlingame grouped by land-use.
Each description contains the site address, project summary, current processing status, and
contact information.
MULTI-FAMILY RESIDENTIAL PROJECTS:
556 EI Camino Real (18-Unit Residential Condominium)
Project Applicant Contacts: Staff Contact:
Frank Gonsalves, Architect 650.508.9520 Erica Strohmeier 650.558.7250
Roman Knop, property owner 415.516.5180
An application has been submitted for a condominium permit and conditional use permit for
height for a new, four-story, 18 unit residential condominium at 556 EI Camino Real, zoned R-3.
Currently, the site now contains 14 apartment units. The existing apartment building would be
demolished in order to build the proposed 18-unit condominium project.
The project is subject to the Inclusionary Zoning regulations which require that an affordable unit
be included with any residential projects with 4 or more units. This 18-unit condominium project
would require two affordable units.
Processing Status: The project was originally submitted in August, 2006. The project is still in
the initial stages of review. No hearing date has been scheduled at this time. Once revised
plans have been submitted based on staff comments and the application is deemed complete,
the project will be scheduled for an environmental scoping meeting with the Planning
Commission.
1433 Floribunda Avenue (5-unit Residential Condominium)
Project Applicant Contacts: Staff Contact:
Daniel MacDonald Architects 415.899.0050 Ruben Hurin 650.558.7250
Galen Ma 1415.218.3159
An application has been submitted for Environmental Review, Condominium Permit, Side
Setback Variance and Parking Variance for a new, 4-story, 5-unit residential condominium
project at 1433 Floribunda Avenue, zoned R-3. The existing site contains five apartment units.
The existing apartment building would be demolished to build the five condominium units.
Processing Status: The project was submitted in January, 2008. The project is in the initial
stages of review. No hearing date has been scheduled at this time. Once the plans have been
reviewed, the comments have been addressed and the project is deemed to be complete, the
project will be scheduled for an environmental scoping meeting with the Planning Commission.
This project is subject to the Inclusionary Zoning regulations which require that an affordable
unit be included with any residential projects with 4 or more units. This 5-unit proposal requires
one affordable unit.
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2009 Annual Work Program Meeting
MAJOR PROJECTS LIST
101 Anita Road (9-unit Residential Condominium)
Project Applicant Contact: I Staff Contact:
John Stewart, Architect 650.591.8283 1 Lisa Whitman 650.558.7250
An application has been submitted for Environmental Review, Condominium Permit, Variances
for front setback, height, landscaping, and private open space dimensions for a new, 4-story, 9-
unit residential condominium project at 101 Anita Road, zoned R-3. The site consists of two
parcels which contain six apartment units and a duplex. A tentative parcel map for lot
combination and a tentative condominium map are also required. The existing buildings would
be demolished to build the nine condominium units.
Processing Status: The project was submitted in February, 2008. No hearing date has been
scheduled at this time. The architect is working with the Planning Division to prepare the
application for Planning Commission review. Once the project is ready for Planning
Commission review and deemed to be complete, it will be scheduled for an environmental
scoping meeting with the Planning Commission.
This project is subject to the Inclusionary Zoning regulations which require that an affordable
unit be included with any residential projects with four or more units. This nine-unit proposal
requires one affordable unit.
1128-1132 Douglas Avenue (14-unit Residential Condominium)
Project Applicant Contacts: Staff Contact:
Robert Van Dale, EDI Architecture 415.362.2880 Ruben Hurin 650.558.7250
Denham LLC 650.579.4994
An application has been submitted for Environmental Review, Condominium Permit, and
Conditional Use Permit for height for a new, 5-story, 14-unit residential condominium project at
1128-1132 Douglas Avenue, zoned R-4. The site consists of two parcels which contain two
single family homes and a four-unit apartment building. The two single family homes on the
property are listed on the Preliminary Inventory of Historic Resources prepared for the
Downtown Specific Plan which is now under way. These two structures will need to be further
evaluated, any impacts assessed and mitigation identified as a part of the environmental review
for this project.
Processing Status: The project was submitted in March, 2008. The project is in the initial
stages of review. No hearing date has been scheduled at this time. Once the plans have been
reviewed, the comments have been addressed and the project is deemed to be complete, the
project will be scheduled for an Environmental Scoping meeting with the Planning Commission.
This project is subject to the Inclusionary Zoning regulations which require that an affordable
unit be included with any residential projects with 4 or more units. This 14-unit proposal
requires two affordable units.
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0 MAJOR PROJECTS LIST
COMMERCIAL/INSTITUTIONAL PROJECTS:
1310 Bayswater Avenue (Addition to existing school)
LArchitects
o'ect Applicant Contacts: Staff Contact:
ephen Schlatter, Diseno 415.775.0188 Erica Strohmeier 650.558.7250
Catherine of Sienna Church 650.344.6884
An application has been submitted for Environmental Review, Commercial Design Review,
Conditional Use Permit for height and use, and parking variance for an 18,905 square foot, two-
story addition to the existing Saint Catherine's school building at 1310 Bayswater Avenue,
zoned C-1. This structure, together with the church building on the same property, is listed on
the Preliminary Inventory of Historic Resources prepared for the Burlingame Downtown Specific
Plan which is now underway. The addition to this structure will be further evaluated to
determine if it is eligible for listing on the National Register of Historic Places. If it is determined
to be eligible for listing, the proposed addition will also be evaluated to determine if the addition
is compatible and maintains the historic qualities of the existing structure. This evaluation will
be incorporated into the environmental review for this project.
Processing Status: The project was submitted in May, 2008. The historic analysis of the
structure is now underway. Once the evaluation is complete, the project will be scheduled for
an Environmental Scoping and Design Review Study meeting with the Planning Commission.
2220 Summit Drive (Conditional Use Permit for Private High School in Existing Buildin s
Project Applicant Contacts: Staff Contact:
Jerry Winges, Winges Architects 650.343.1101 Erica Strohmeier 650.558.7250
Inc.
An application has been submitted for Environmental Review, Conditional Use Permit and
Parking Variance to operate a private high school in existing buildings at 2220 Summit Drive,
zoned R-1. The site was formerly the Hoover Elementary School site, and was most recently,
since 1988, has been occupied by Shinnyo-En a religious facility. No new buildings are being
proposed, the facility would operate within the existing buildings now on the site.
Processing Status: The project was submitted in February, 2009, and is in the initial stages of
review. No hearing date has been scheduled at this time. Once the plans have been reviewed,
the comments have been addressed and the project is deemed to be complete, the project will
be scheduled for an Environmental Scoping meeting with the Planning Commission.
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MAJOR PROJECTS LIST
PROJECTS WHICH HAVE RECEIVED PLANNING COMMISSION APPROVAL:
1512-1516 Floribunda Avenue (9-Unit Residential Condominium)
Project Applicant Contacts: Staff Contact:
Dale Meyer, Architect 650.348.5054 Ruben Hurin 650.558.7250
Thorenfeldt Const., pr ert owner 650.558.9495
On September 12, 2005, the Planning Commission approved an application for a mitigated
negative declaration, condominium permit, and special permit for front setback landscaping for
construction of a new, four-story, 9-unit residential condominium with below-grade parking at
1512-1516 Floribunda Avenue, zoned R-3. The project will include five 3-bedroom units and
four 2-bedroom units. Currently, the site consists of two parcels with a single family residence
on one and a four-unit multiple-family residential building on the other. These structures would
be demolished and the lots merged as a part of this proposal.
Although it was submitted prior to the adoption of the Inclusionary Zoning regulations, this
project is being processed using these regulations which require that an affordable unit be
included with any residential projects with 4 or more units. This 9-unit proposal requires one
affordable unit, and by providing the unit, the application is eligible to use the incentive for
height, which allows a maximum height of 46 feet (35 feet maximum if no affordable unit
provided).
Project Status: Construction of this project is now complete.
1427 Chapin Avenue (Remodel and Addition to an Existing Building)
Project Applicant Contacts: Staff Contact:
Farro Essalat, Architect ��650.596.:8950
23 Maureen Brooks 650.558.7250
Fred Bertetta, property owner
On April 24, 2006, the Planning Commission approved an application for environmental review,
commercial design review and parcel map for lot combination for a remodel and addition to an
existing building at 1427 Chapin Avenue, zoned C-1, Subarea B1, Burlingame Avenue
Commercial Area. Currently, the site contains several one and two-story buildings formerly
occupied by a local nursery business, the Garden Center. The project includes demolition of
the accessory structures and remodeling the interior of the existing two-story main brick building
originally built 1905 as well as a two-story addition (8,750 SF)to the existing building. The use
on the site is proposed to be office.
Project Status: Construction of this project is now complete.
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MAJOR PROJECTS LIST
1818 Trousdale Drive (79-Unit Assisted Living Facility)
Project Applicant Contacts: Staff Contact:
Sunrise Development, Inc. 925.743.9035 Ruben Hurin 650.558.7250
Trousdale Properties 415.771.5246
Michael Kutsin, Mithun Partners 206.971.5575
On July 10, 2006, the Planning Commission approved an application for environmental review,
conditional use permit, variances for front setback and building height, and exceptions to the
design guidelines of the North Burlingame/Rollins Road Specific Plan for a new four-story, 79-
unit assisted living facility (group residential care for the elderly) at 1818 Trousdale Drive, zoned
TW (Trousdale West). This site is located at the northwest corner of Trousdale and Ogden
Drives. Currently, there is an existing one-story, vacant office building (approximately 15,000
SF) on the site. The proposed project includes demolishing the existing one-story office building
and building a new, four-story, 79-unit assisted living facility with below-grade parking.
The main entrance to the assisted living facility is proposed on Trousdale Drive. The first and
second floors will contain assisted living units and related common activity and support services.
The third floor will contain suites for memory-impaired residents. The fourth floor is similar to
the third floor but with lower staffing requirements and increased amenities for residents.
Common areas on the first floor include the dining room, bistro and parlor. Other amenities
such as media rooms, activity rooms, hair-salon, etc., are located throughout the facility. The
assisted living units are comprised of one-bedroom, two-bedroom and a "Denver" unit which
can accommodate one or two persons. The proposed facility will contain 41 one-bedroom units,
18 two-bedroom units and 20 "Denver" units. Typical units range in size from 450 SF to 680
SF.
Project Status: A building permit has been issued for the project and construction is now
under way.
1840 Oqden Drive (45-Unit Residential Condominium)
Project Applicant Contacts: Staff Contact:
Bruce Balshone 650.343.2525 Maureen Brooks 650.558.7250
Toby Levy, Levy Design 415.777.0561
Burlingame Hills LLC, property 650.992.2800
owner
On July 24, 2006, the Planning Commission approved an application for environmental review,
condominium permit, front and side setback variances and a conditional use permit for lot
coverage for a new, four-story, 45-unit residential condominium at 1840 Ogden Drive, zoned
TW (Trousdale West). Currently, the site contains a single-story office building. The existing
building would be demolished in order to build the proposed 45-unit condominium.
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MAJOR PROJECTS LIST
This project is subject to the Inclusionary Zoning regulations which require that affordable units
be included with any residential projects with 4 or more units. The Planning Commission added
a condition of approval for this project which requires that 15% of the units shall be affordable
units. In this case, this 45-unit proposal requires seven affordable units.
Project Status: A building permit has not been issued for this project.
1441-1445 Bellevue Avenue (20-Unit Residential Condominium)
Project Applicant Contacts: Staff Contact:
Dale Meyer, Architect 650.348.5054 Maureen Brooks 650.558.7250
Bellevue Assoc. LLC, property 415.922.0178
owner
On January 8, 2007, the Planning Commission approved an amended application for a
mitigated negative declaration, tentative parcel map, condominium permit and special permit for
front setback landscaping for a new, four-story, 20-unit residential condominium at 1441-1445
Bellevue Avenue, zoned R-4. Currently, the site contains multi-family residential dwelling units
on two separate lots with a total of 18-units in five structures. The existing buildings would be
demolished in order to build the proposed 20-unit condominium.
This project was submitted prior to the adoption of the Inclusionary zoning regulations, which
would have required the inclusion of two affordable units for this 20-unit project. Although not
required, the applicant is proposing to include two affordable units, and the project was eligible
for incentives (such as an increase in height to 46') which are granted to projects that meet the
current code requirement for affordable units.
Project Status: A building permit has not been issued for this project.
1800 Trousdale Drive (25-Unit Residential Condominium)
Project Applicant Contacts: Staff Contact:
Dan Ionescu, Architect 650.570.6681 Maureen Brooks 650.558.7250
Paul Bogatsky, property owner 415.202.0610
On April 16, 2007, the City Council approved an application has been submitted for
environmental review, condominium permit, tentative condominium map, conditional use
permits for height and lot coverage, and front setback variance for a new, seven-story, 25-unit
residential condominium at 1800 Trousdale Drive, zoned TW (Trousdale West). Currently, the
site contains a single-story office building. The existing building would be demolished in order
to build the proposed 25-unit condominium.
This project is subject to the Inclusionary Zoning regulations which require that an affordable
unit be included with any residential projects with 4 or more units. This 25-unit proposal
requires three affordable units.
Project Status: A building permit has not been issued for this project.
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MAJOR PROJECTS LIST
1450 Rollins Road/20 Edwards Court(Remodel and Construction of a New Building)
Project Applicant Contacts: Staff Contact:
Peninsula Humane Society & 650.340.7022 Ruben Hurin 650.558.7250
SPCA
Henry Horn & Sons, property 650.348.1051
owner
Geor a Meiers &Assoc., Architect 925.631.6900
On June 18, 2007, the City Council adopted a resolution certifying the Final Environmental
Impact Report and approving conditional use permits for height and use as an animal
shelter/animal rescue facility and design review for remodel of an existing building and
construction of a new building at 1450 Rollins Road and 20 Edwards Court, zoned RR (M-1
zoning was in effect at the time the application was submitted). The site is proposed to be used
by the Peninsula Humane Society and SPCA for 1) veterinary and rehabilitative care for pets up
for adoption and for native animals; 2) adoption services; 3) youth and family education services
in a classroom setting; and 5) retail sales and pet supplies.
Project Status: A building permit has not been issued for this project.
1226 EI Camino Real (9-Unit Residential Condominium)
Project Applicant Contacts: Staff Contact:
Kirk Miller, Architect 415.788.8788 Ruben Hurin 650.558.7250
Sherrie Chow, propertyowner 650.298.9984
On May 27, 2008, the Planning Commission approved an application for environmental review
and a condominium permit for a 9-unit , four story residential condominium project at 1226 EI
Camino Real, zoned R-3. Currently, the site contains a total of twelve apartment units in four
separate buildings. The existing structures on the site would be demolished in order to build the
new condominium building.
This project is subject to the inclusionary zoning regulations which require that an affordable unit
be included with any residential projects with 4 or more units. This 9-unit proposal requires one
affordable unit.
Project Status: A building permit was issued for this project in November, 2008, and
construction is now underway.
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MAJOR PROJECTS LIST
260 EI Camino Real (New Retail Building)
Project Applicant Contacts: Staff Contact:
Nilmeyer/Nilmeyer Assoc., 650.347.0757 Erica Strohmeier 650.558.7250
Architect
Kevin Cullinane, property owner 650.342.3030
On January 20, 2009, the City Council approved an application for Mitigated Negative
Declaration, Commercial Design Review, Parking and Setback Variances, and Conditional Use
Permit for 24-hour operation of a drug store for a new 13,755 square foot commercial retail
building at 260 EI Camino Real, zoned C-1, Subarea A. The existing gas station building on the
site would be demolished to build the new one story retail building with a mezzanine level.
Project Status: A building permit has not been issued for this project.
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BURLFIVGILMF 2009 Annual Wor{c Program Meeting
STATUS OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT INITIATIVES
Economic Development Incentives:
At its joint meeting in May 2008, the City Council and Planning Commission set a goal of
researching and recommending incentives to promote economic development. On September
2nd the City Council adopted Ordinance No. 1830 Establishing Public Facilities Impact Fee
Process. Included in that ordinance is the authority of the Planning Commission to adjust or
waive these fees. The authority to adjust or waive the fees may be used as an incentive to
promote economic development when needed.
Another incentive the City is able to offer businesses of any size is the pre-application meeting
and process. Developers have responded very favorably to this offer and report that it is of
considerable value to them as it saves them potentially a great deal of time and money trying to
navigate the system on their own.
Economic Development Priorities:
At its July 9, 2008 meeting with the Economic Development Specialist, the City Council's
Economic Development Subcommittee reviewed several options and then agreed upon the
priorities and plan of work for the City's Economic Development Program. The three priorities of
the Economic Development Program include:
• Facilitate the creation of new commercial development in Burlingame.
• Help retain and expand existing local businesses.
• Foster a pro-business attitude in the city.
The following table includes each of the work plan items and efforts, to date, to address each
item:
FACILITATE THE CREATION OF NEW COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT IN BURLINGAME
Work with prospective Staff is working with the deveow
loper of large parcel in
developers to promote the Bay Front area, the Burlingame Plaza owners,
an
and/or facilitate desirable With the City's approval process.rprise, and other owners or developers to help
development
Staff arranges pre-application meetings with new
businesses to inform them of City requirements.
Staff has been in discussion with the Subcommittee
and the State Lands Commission about the state-
owned parcel on the Bay.
Staff is working with new businesses to help them
identify space in Burlingame and inform them of City
requirements.
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STATUS OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT INITIATIVES
FACILITATE THE CREATION OF NEW COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT IN BURLINGAME
Identify and stay in touch Subcommittee met with key commercial brokers and
with commercial property owners in March. Staff is following up on
brokers and owners recommendations from the meeting, including
possible changes to the food establishment
classifications and limits and demolition permits.
Staff discusses vacancies and options for filling them
with brokers and owners and sends potential tenants
to them.
Include economic Economic Development Program is on the web site
development on City web and the pages are updated as needed.
site
Link to commercial The site includes links to three services that provide
property on City web site commercial listings.
Develop Staff has written press releases and reached out to
promotional/informational the media to promote business and development
material about the City issues in Burlingame.
and economic Staff is collaborating with the Chamber to provide
development topics information and counseling to businesses as part of
the Help for Burlingame Businesses program.
City web site includes some informative material
addressing economic development topics.
Staff works with organizations that create materials
we can use (e.g., SBA, Anne Hennegar's technology
training materials).
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STATUS OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT INITIATIVES
HELP RETAIN AND EXPAND EXISTING LOCAL BUSINESSES
Meet with firms planning Staff works with firms to address their concerns
changes to business and related to expansions, changes, use of public space,
offer assistance where and city services and policies. A few examples
needed include: Putnam, Apple, Peet's, Smith & Hawken,
Sheraton, Rector, La Croissant Cafe.
Staff is working with Enterprise to help facilitate their
WeCar pilot program in the City.
Track new business Staff reaches out to new businesses identified in
licenses and contact a different ways, including Planning and Building
sample of those to processes and brokers.
welcome to the City Staff reviews weekly business license reports.
Contact businesses from the list as time permits.
Follow-up with When possible, staff speaks with businesses about
businesses closing or why they're closing or moving. In some cases, staff
leaving the City to learn speaks with property owner or broker. Examples
why and if City could include Bebe, Fina, Ann Taylor, and some Broadway
have been more helpful Plaza businesses.
Conduct firm visitsand Staff visits businesses, particularly when an issue or
try to help address question is raised or upon referral by a business
issues raised group. Sometimes these contacts are handled via
phone or email.
Staff met with hotel operators and followed up on
information requests.
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STATUS OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT INITIATIVES
FOSTER A PRO-BUSINESS ATTITUDE IN THE CITY
Meet regularly with Staff speaks and meets regularly with Chamber staff
business groups to hear to coordinate efforts and share information.
their concerns and ideas Staff gives report at monthly Chamber board
and to update them on meetings.
City activities
Staff communicates regularly with representatives of
the Downtown and Broadway business groups and
business owner from the Burlingame Plaza who
unofficially represents the merchants there.
Staff writes articles as requested for business groups'
publications.
Arrange meetings for The Economic Development Subcommittee has
City Council with hosted meetings with: the developer of a large Bay
businesses as an Front property (twice); Burlingame Plaza owners;
opportunity for Owners of Car Dealerships; and commercial property
information exchange owners and brokers.
Staff follows up on the issues addressed in these
meetings. For example, staff addressed or is trying to
address safety questions of Putnam, a historic trust
designation issue of Mike Harvey, streetscape and
graffiti issues of Rector, and permitting, food
establishment, and building issues addressed by
property owners.
Enhance web site to Staff removed outdated information about the
include a more positive business license amnesty program.
business tone
Assemble information on Staff has not addressed this.
how City has facilitated
business expansions (to
counter negative stories)
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Joint City Council/Planning Commission Meeting
13URL.INGAME 2009 Annual Work Program Meeting
�L. HOUSING ELEMENT IMPLEMENTATION
ACTIONS REQUIRED/ZONING CHANGES
Create an R-4 Overlay zone for C-2 zoned properties along Carolan Avenue:
The property south of North Park Apartments requires creation of an R-4 overlay to create an
opportunity for residential use and to make the sites available for residential use. This proposed
overlay zone is now being reviewed by the Planning Commission and City Council and is
expected to be adopted by June, 2009.
Adopt the Downtown Specific Plan:
The City is undergoing development of a Downtown Specific Plan which includes a mixed-use
development component. Adoption of this plan will allow housing in the downtown area in
appropriate locations, as mixed-use developments. Areas on the periphery of the downtown
core will allow for higher density residential development in areas that are now either zoned for
commercial or residential use.
Zoning Implementation for the Downtown Specific Plan:
Once the Downtown Specific Plan is adopted, implementing zoning for the new land use
categories and development standards will need to be put in place to allow for the higher
density residential on the periphery of the downtown core.
Amend the Inclusionary Housing Ordinance:
a. to require a Low-Income component of required affordable housing
b. to encourage smaller unit sizes (i.e. studio, one- and two-bedroom units).
C. to extend the affordability time restrictions on subsidized housing.
d. offer incentives for guarantees of long-term affordability (such as reduced parking
requirements/increased height).
Zero-Net-Loss of Housing Units:
Require new housing developments in the R-3 and R-4 zones that replace existing units to build
equal to or more than the number of units previously on the site, in compliance with density
regulations. To help accomplish this, provide parking incentives for smaller units located within
one-third mile of transit hubs.
Offer Incentives For Affordable Housing And Transit Oriented Development:
In areas near a transit hub, zoning code changes would be considered to:
a. Provide incentives for affordable housing;
b. Provide for reduced parking and increased height for development within one-third mile
of a transportation hub;
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2009 Annual Work Program Meeting
HOUSING ELEMENT IMPLEMENTATION
C. Provide incentives such as reduced parking requirement for efficiency units if all units
are affordable;
d. provide opportunities for live/work units and mixed use projects; and
e. Provide incentives for lot consolidation in areas where there are small underdeveloped
lots and/or residential development design would benefit from larger lots.
f. Consider regulations for shared parking for mixed use with different day/night parking
demands.
g. Reduced Parking Requirements for smaller units within one-third mile of transit hub or
major bus route.
Provide amenities for rental developments:
Amend the zoning code to require the inclusion of communal amenities in new rental
developments (i.e. community rooms, play structures, laundry facilities).
Density Bonus:
Amend the zoning code to provide opportunities for density bonuses (through compliance with
State law, changes in parking requirements and/or height/bulk restrictions) for residential
projects which include affordable units and are located within 1/3 mile of a transit station. Forge
a partnership with a local non-profit agency to insure the units remain affordable.
Prevent conversion of residential units to non-residential use:
Amend zoning code to require a conditional use permit for any project where residential units
are proposed to be replaced by non-residential use. Offer permit streamlining for rehabilitation
of existing rental developments.
Amend the Zoning Code to Remove Constraints for Disabled Accessibility:
a. Consider code changes that would allow code exceptions to modify housing for elderly
and physically disabled for the duration of their tenancy, such as amending the zoning
code to provide an exemption from lot coverage and setback requirements for ramps
and landings added to residences and group homes in order to provide access for the
disabled.
b. Consider zoning code changes to add opportunities for group homes for the disabled in
the R-3 and R-4 zone districts.
C. Analyze current zoning and development standards to identify other barriers to disabled
housing.
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B� 2009 Annual Work Program Meeting
HOUSING ELEMENT IMPLEMENTATION
Secondary dwelling units:
Allow secondary units per the Government Code. Amend zoning code to allow secondary units
in the R-1 zone, require minimum lot size, maximum unit size, and require that one of the units
be owner occupied.
Emergency Shelters:
Amend zoning code to allow emergency shelters by right in the northern part of the RR (Rollins
Road) zoning district or in the portions of the C1 and C2 zoning districts closest to major transit
corridors.
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F3UR4_tNGAM� 2009 Annual Work Program Meeting
-- BACKGROUND MEMORANDUM
DATE: March 16, 2009
TO: Mayor and City Council
Planning Commission
FROM: William Meeker, Community Development Directo
SUBJECT: AGENDA ITEM V — Draft City Council Goals — FY 09-10
On January 31 , 2009, the City Council conducted its annual goal-setting session for FY 2009-
2010, and identified the following goals. Following each goal is a brief narrative explaining
staff's perspective regarding a strategy for proceeding with work to address the goal.
A. Permit Increased Density in New Multi-Family Housing (New)
Discussion: Staff would pursue creative means of encouraging greater densities within the
City's multi-family zoning districts. A method being considered as part the Burlingame
Downtown Specific Plan is the concept of an "average unit size" of 1 ,250 square feet. This
approach would provide developers with flexibility in unit sizes within developments, but would
restrict the ability to create large units that have limited appeal within the community. Though
larger units could be built, they must be off-set by smaller units that by definition would permit
more units to be placed on a site. Additionally, the provision of the smaller units would promote
the concept of "attainable" housing within the City. Staff also intends to move forward with
implementation of the State-mandated "density bonus" law that has been included in State
statutes for several years.
B. Encourage the Downtown Burlingame Business Association to Re-establish the
Business Improvement District (BID) and Work with Downtown Property Owners
and Businesses for Increased Accountability in Regard to Cleanliness in Front of,
and in Back of Properties/Explore Additional Fees from Property Owners to Assist
in Funding Infrastructure Improvements Downtown (New)
Discussion: Though much of the work on this item will include participation from the City
Manager and Finance Director; staff within the Community Development Department,
particularly the Community Development Director and Economic Development Specialist, intend
to work closely with the Downtown business community in an effort to re-establish the BID as a
means of partially funding much-needed infrastructure improvements within the downtown area.
The Economic Development Specialist currently works closely with the City's Code Enforcement
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BURLINGAME 2009 Annual Work Program Meeting
Background. Agenda Item V
Officer and businesses to promote cleanliness of properties within the Downtown. These efforts
will continue.
C. Change the Process to Ensure that People Adding Large Heating/Air Conditioning
Units on Rooftops are Required to Provide an Attractive Way of Shielding Them
Visually from Neighbors/Ask the Planning Commission's Neighborhood
Consistency Subcommittee to Look at How Green Building Issues mesh with
Design Issues and How to Strike a Balance Between These Two Goals (New)
Discussion: This item has arisen as a result of the recent upgrade of heating and air
conditioning systems for "Eichler" homes lying in the neighborhoods near Trousdale Drive in
north Burlingame. The basic, slab-on-grade construction associated with Eichler-style
structures limits property owners' ability to upgrade mechanical systems for their residences
when needed. In many instances, the limitations associated with the construction of the home
necessitate placement of new systems upon the roof of these structures. The resultant
degradation of the appearance of these homes has been deemed a concern that requires some
sort of action. Staff would explore means of requiring some sort of"limited" discretionary review
to address this interest.
D. Provide Searchable Audio Copies of Planning Commission Meetings Online for
Web Streaming and Listening after Meetings (New)
Discussion: Planning Division staff currently prepares audio recordings that can be duplicated
for members of the public if requested. The suggestion here is to utilize the new "Granicus"
media system installed within the City Council Chambers to provide live audio feeds on-line for
the public, as well as the ability to provide ready access to these recordings on-line after the
event. In discussing this with the Finance Director, it appears that the primary "cost" associated
with this measure would be staff training time to utilize the system. In advance of the March 21St
Joint Meeting, staff will have conversations with the City's Information Systems staff to
determine if it is feasible to provide access to this information on-line, and at what cost.
E. Create Below-Market Housing Options for Citizens Who Are Not Well Served by
Current Available Housing Stock, such as Seniors Who Want to Downsize,
Younger Residents Who Want to Buy Their First Home, Safety Personnel and
Teachers (Carry-Over FY 08-09)
Discussion: As noted in the prior discussion regarding increasing housing densities, staff
would pursue creative means of encouraging greater densities within the City's multi-family
zoning districts. A method being considered as part the Burlingame Downtown Specific Plan is
the concept of an "average unit size" of 1,250 square feet. This approach would provide
developers with flexibility in unit sizes within developments, but would restrict the ability to
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Background: Agenda Item V
create large units that have limited appeal within the community. Though larger units could be
built, they must be off-set by smaller units that by definition would permit more units to be
placed on a site. Additionally, the provision of the smaller units would promote the concept of
"attainable" housing within the City. Staff also intends to move forward with implementation of
the State-mandated density bonus law that has been included in State statutes for several
years. Additionally, the City's current Inclusionary Housing regulations are ill-suited to providing
truly "attainable" housing within the community, as they limit affordability to only "moderate"
income categories, and for a limited term of 10-years. Staff will pursue measures intending to
strengthen the regulations to provide greater levels of affordability for longer terms.
F. Encourage and Facilitate Movement on the New Safeway Proposal (Carry-Over FY
08-09)
Discussion: Safeway representatives have indicated that the submission of an application for
the new Safeway project is imminent within the month of March, 2009. It is anticipated that the
a team of staff members within the Planning Division will shepherd the project through the
development process; with the Planning Manager taking the lead on facilitation completion of
the environmental review and providing general oversight over the project.
G. Work with the Economic Development Specialist to Develop an Economic
Development Program, and Research and Recommend Incentives to Promote
Economic Development(Carry-Over FY 08-09)
Discussion: The City Council's Economic Development Subcommittee now meets monthly
with the Economic Development Specialist and the Community Development Director to "check-
in" on the status of the various initiatives priorities in the City's economic development program.
These meetings will continue to explore new means of improving the business climate in the
City, and providing the most beneficial services to our local businesses (see "Status of
Economic Initiatives" document attached to background materials for Agenda Item IV).
H. Look for Ways to Encourage Public Art as part of New Development (Carry-Over
FY 08-09)
Discussion: Discussions related to the Burlingame Downtown Specific Plan have included a
desire to include policies for the provision of public art. It is anticipated that policies identified in
the specific plan process may have applicability in other areas of the City as well. Work on the
Specific Plan is anticipated to be completed in the first half of 2009; with adoption in the third
quarter of 2009.
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9D2009 Annual Work Program Meeting
Background. Agenda Item V
I. Research and Recommend Options for Better Use of City-Owned Parking Lots
(Carry-Over FY 08-09)
Discussion: The location of structured parking downtown has been an ongoing discussion as
part of the preparation of the Burlingame Downtown Specific Plan. The discussion has included
not only the best locations for structured parking (either above grade or below grade) and the
opportunity to leverage the City's assets by selling/leasing air rights above parking lots to private
developers. Work on the Specific Plan is anticipated to be completed in the first half of 2009;
with adoption likely in the third quarter of 2009.
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Joint City Council/Planning Commission Meeting
BURP, GAMF 2009 Annual Work Program Meeting
BACKGROUND MEMORANDUM
DATE: March 16, 2009
TO: Mayor and City Council
Planning Commission
07
-1-FROM: William Meeker, Community Development Direct
SUBJECT: AGENDA ITEM VI — Suggested Work Program Items — FY 09-10
In preparation for the Joint City Council/Planning Commission Annual Work Program Meeting,
Council Members and Commissioners were asked if there were additional items they would like
to discuss at the session. The following is a summary of the items submitted, the identification
of the individual suggesting the item, as well as a brief narrative from staff regarding each item.
A. Consider creating greater flexibility in the City's Parking Standards.
Discussion: Identified by Mayor Keighran. The City's parking standards are quite strict,
leaving little room for creative solutions to parking. Additionally, the standards require spaces
that are quite large by other communities' standards. The Burlingame Downtown Specific Plan
will include suggested policies regarding parking that may possibly be applied City-wide.
Creation of greater flexibility in providing parking, can assist in the City's economic development
efforts, and also in the development of more "attainable" housing types.
B. Consider requiring design review for properties lying within R-2, R-3 and R-4
zoning districts.
Discussion: Identified by Vice-Mayor Baylock. Residential design review currently only
applies to residential projects that lie in R-1 districts. Commercial design review applies to
projects lying within C-1 and C-2 zones. Design review guidelines have also been developed
for properties that lie within each of the specific plan areas (North Burlingame/Rollins Road and
Bayfront, and soon Downtown Burlingame). There is merit in moving forward with ensuring that
the design review process is also applied to the remaining properties not subject to review
under other procedures and/or policies. Staff suggests that it work with a subcommittee of the
Planning Commission to move forward with this initiative if selected as a priority in the upcoming
fiscal year.
THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK
Joint City Council/Planning Commission Meeting
OURUNGAME 2009 Annual Work Program Meeting
L .I .
--- BACKGROUND MEMORANDUM
DATE: March 16, 2009
TO: Mayor and City Council
Planning Commission
-i
FROM: William Meeker, Community Development Director
SUBJECT: AGENDA ITEM VII — Other Discussion Topics
The following is a summary of additional discussion topics suggested by Council Members and
Commission Members. Included is a brief description of the item, followed by a staff narrative.
Exhibits pertaining to the topic areas are attached at the end of this memorandum, where
applicable.
A. The Role of Planning Commissioners when They Disagree with City Council
Decisions
Discussion: This topic has been suggested for discussion in light of two recent actions
wherein the City Council reversed decisions of the Planning Commission.
B. The Appeal Process, Including Planning Commissioner Appeals of Commission
Decisions
Discussion: Suggested in light of a recent appeal that was apparently encouraged by a
dissenting Planning Commission member. Additionally, two recent City Council actions
reversing the Commission's actions have elicited a desire to discuss the appeal process, and
the differing outcomes that may occur at the City Council level. As supplemental information,
have attached a summary of projects appealed to the City Council from 2001 through 2008,
including the resultant actions. Within that time period, 49 Commission actions were appealed.
Out of the 49 applications, the City Council reversed seven (14%) of the Commission's
decisions.
C. Exhibits Provided to the City Council for Appeals of Planning Commission
Decisions
Discussion: Recently, the applicant for the Walgreen's project at 260 EI Camino Real
appealed the Planning Commission's denial of the project to the City Council. A key design
concern of the Planning Commission related to the lack of visibility into the proposed store from
Burlingame Avenue. When the project was presented to the City Council, the applicant chose
1
Joint City Council/Planning Commission Meeting
BURLINGAME 2009 Annual Work Program Meeting
Background: Agenda Item VI
to present revised plans that appeared to address the Commission's design concern. In an
effort to facilitate an expedient action on the project, the Council chose to approve the revised
project rather than refer the matter back to the ureof
Planning
h
discussion is to reach consensus regarding then plans presented to theCity Council for
appealed projects. The Planning commission's actions
thlans e City Countcildon
to
them for review; presumably, an appellant shouldpresent the same plans to
appeal; this is the policy direction to be discussed.
D. Specification of Architectural Styles for Neighborhoods
Discussion: The City's design review process is designed to ensure that new projects are
designed and built in a manner that is sensitive to their neighborhood setting. In some
neighborhoods, a predominant architectural style exists; shall a specific architectural style be
dictated in such instances?
E. Food Service Uses within the Burlingame Avenue Commercial Area, Subarea A
Discussion: At last year's joint meeting, staff noted that the number of restaurants present
within Subarea A of the Burlingame Avenue Commercial Area had fallen below 40. At that time,
based upon staff's input, the City Council and Planning Commission decided not to consider
increasing the number of restaurant opportunities in light of the anticipated adoption of the
Burlingame Downtown Specific Plan by the end of 2008,
or early 2009. Work on the Specific
Plan continues, with adoption now expected in the third quarter of 2009. However, Planning
Division staff and the Economic Development Specialist continue to field inquiries from
restaurateurs seeking a location in Downtown Burlingame; the restaurant count is currently 38.
At this time, staff suggests consideration of adding the potential for up to five additional "full-
service" food establishments within portions of the Downtown Area; specifically, on Burlingame
Avenue between Primrose Road and EtReal,
Park Road and Lorton Avenuevnorth
frontages south of Burlingame Avenue on Primrose Road,
of Howard Avenue (see attached map). Limiting additional restaurant development to these
areas would potentially add more pedestrian activity in these areas, enlivening the west end of
Burlingame Avenue, and improving the pedestrian connection to Howard Avenue.
On a related matter, staff encourages the City Council and Planning Commission to discuss an
interest expressed recently by Downtown property owners regarding the restrictions placed
upon frozen yogurt, cookie, and other "snack" type establishments that do not provide full meal
service. The Community Development Director's experience in other communities reveals that
many cities do not classify such uses as "food services" subject to similar standards applied to
restaurants; but considers them to be more of a "retail" use.
2
Appeals to Ci Council—2001 through 2008
PC CC CC Action P Upheld/Decision
Address Description Hearing PC Action Appealed By Appeal (App/Deny) Reversed
1825 Castenada Design Review,Special Permit&Hillside 1/8/01 Approve Neighbor 2/5/01 Approve Upheld
Area for new single familydwelling
1209 Bellevue Parking Variance to convert storage area 2/12/01 Deny Applicant 4/2001 Approve Reversed
to apartment
Approve w/ Approve
1441 Bernal Amendment to approved Design Review 5/29/01 App Applicant 6/18/01 w/amended Upheld
for new single family dwelling Conditions conditions
1524 Los Montes Design Review,Setback Variance& 6/11/01 Deny Applicant 6/01 Approve Reversed
Hillside Area-1st&2nd sto addition
Parking Variance for Office Business Council called Made Det.not Determination
247 California Dr. (Council determined Graphic Design 10/22/01 Approve up 12/3/01 office on use
Business ispedestrian-oriented)
1147 Rollins Road CUP for Minimart at Gas Station 12/10/01 Den Applicant 2/02 Approve Reversed
1443 Howard Ave. Sign Variance for Height of Sign at 1/14/02 Deny Applicant 2/02 Approve Reversed
Church
Design Review&Hillside Area
1509 Los Montes Construction Permit for new single family 12/10/01 Approve Neighbor 2/02 Approve Upheld
dwelling
1369 Bernal Ave Design Review&Setback Variance for 2/11/02 Approve Neighbor 3/02 Approve Upheld
1st&2nd storyaddition
Design Review&Hillside Area
2843 Arguello Dr. Construction Permit for 1st&2nd story 6/24/02 Deny WOP Applicant 8/02 Approve Reversed
addition
Determination on whether second unit Determined Upheld PC
826 Alpine Dr. was built before 1954 and qualifies for 7/22/02 not built Applicant 9/02 Upheld PC Determination
2nd unit amnesty before 1954
380 Lang Rd. Master Sin Program 10/15/02 Deny Applicant 11/02 Den WOP Upheld
Design Review,Variances and Special Deny Applicant 11/02 Deny WOP Upheld
1336 Carlos Ave Permit for 1st&2nd storyaddition refer to PC
1537 Drake Avenue CUP for emerging lots&2 new single 11/25/02 Approve Neighbors 1/03 Deny WOP Reversed
family dwellings
Upheld City Upheld City
380 Lang Road Determination on Primary Frontage for 1/13/03 Planner Applicant 2/03 Planner Upheld
Signage Determination Determination
CADocuments and Settings\wmeeker\Local Settings\Temporary Internet Files\COntent.OutlOok\ATY5IJMU\CC Appeals 2001-2008.doc
Appeals to Ci Council—2001 through 2008
CC CC Action PC Decision
Address Description Hearing PC Action Appealed By Appeal (App/Deny) ld
Reversed
117 Dwight Road Parking Variance for new accessory 1/13/03 Approve Neighbor 2/03 Approve Upheld
structure
Approve
778 Burlway Rd Amend CUP for Car Rental 1/27/03 Approve Applicant 2/03 w/amonndded Upheld
344 Pepper Ave Design Review, Variances &CUP for new 2/24/03 Approve Neighbor 3/03 Approve Upheld
sin le familydwellin
VvQP
Design Review &Special Permit for new Deny o PC Upheld
1029 Balboa Ave 5/12/03 Deny Applicant 6/03 back to PC P
single Tamil dwelling
1230 Broadway CUP for Food Establishment 7/14/03 A rove Nei hbors 8/03 A rove Upheld
Design Review & FAR Variance for 2nd 11/24/03 Approve Councilmember 12/03 Approve Upheld
1348 Vancouver storyaddition called u
1029 Balboa Ave Design Review &Special Permit for new 10/27/03 Deny Applicant 3/04 Approve Reversed
sin le family dwelling
1428 Cabrillo Ave Design Review Amendment for new 3/29/04 Deny Applicant 4/04 Deny Upheld
single family dwelling
1537 Drake CUP Emerging Lots for 3 new single 3/29/04 Approve Neighbors 5/04 Approve Upheld
family dwellings
Design Review, Setback Variance and
2711 Martinez Hillside Area Construction Permit for 1st 3/29/04 Approve Neighbors 5/04 Approve Upheld
&2nd story addition
2700 Martinez Hillside Area Construction Permit for first 7/12/04 Approve Neighbor 8/04 Approve Upheld
floor addition
620 Airport CUP for long-term airport parking6/28/04 Approve Business 9/04 Approve
----Upheld
220 California Dr. CUP for non-auto related business (retail 3/14/05 Approve Business 4/18/05 Approve Upheld
printing)
Determined Determined
1615 Willow Determination regarding issuing of built according Neighbor 5/05 built according Upheld
building permit to plans to plans
1524 Vancouver Design Review &Special Permit for new 4/25/05 Approve Neighbors 6/6/05 Approve Upheld
single familydwellingUpheld
Upheld City P City
[1400 Burlingame Determination —off premise advertising 8/08/05 Planner Applicant 9/19/05 Planners Upheld
Determination I I Determination
2
Appeals to City Council — 2001 through 2008 PC Decision
CC CC Action Upheld/
PC PC Action Appealed By Appeal CC Action
Reversed
Address Description Hearing
Design Review & Special Permits for new 3/27/06 Approve
Neighbor 5/15/06 Approve Upheld
1416 Balboa Ave single famil dwellingUpheld
Design Review, Special Permit and 8/14/06 Approve Neighbor 10/3/06 Approve p
1520 Arc Way Variance for new single family dwelling Upheld City
Upheld City Upheld
Determination — Skin Care Clinic and Spa 10/13/06 Planner Applicant 12/4/06 Planner
use as a health service use
Determination Determination
Design Review, Variances and Special 11/27/06 Approve Neighbor 1/16/07 Approve Upheld
FDr
57 Drake Ave permit for new single family dwelling
2/21/07 U held
Neighbor 3/5/07 Approve P
00 & 2750 Adeline CUP to establish a baseline for an 1/22/07 Approve 9
-existingschool and reli ious facili use Deny w/o Upheld
Design Review & Hillside Area 11/27/06 Deny w/o Applicant 2/21/07 Prejudice
3 Rio Court Construction Permit for 1st & 2nd story Prejudice
addition
Mitigated Negative Declaration, Councilmember 4/16/07 Approve Upheld
Condominium Permit, Setback Variance 3/26/07 Approve called up
1800 Trousdale & CUPs for new 25-unit residential
condominium Upheld
FDesign Review & Special Permits for new 3/26/07 Approve Neighbor 5/7/07 Approve p
2212 Hillside Dr e famil dwellin U held
review, CUPs for Peninsula Humane 5/14/07 ApproveNeighbor 6/18/07 Approve P1450 Rollins Road e & SPCAU held
Amendment to Design Review for new 6/11/07 Approve Neighbor 8/20/07 Approve P
2212 Hillside Dr single familydwellingApprove/ Modified
w amended Conditions
Design Review & Special Permit for new 10/9/07 Approve Neighbor 11/5/07
1316 Drake Ave conditions
single family dwelling
Design Review, Hillside Area Neighbor 12/17/07 Approve Upheld
g
3105 Margarita Construction Permit & Setback Variances 11/13/07 Approve
for main and lower level addition Applicant
Design Review, Hillside Area aeal of
1/7/08 Approve Upheld
2724 Martinez Dr Construction Permit, Special Permit & 11/13/07 Approve conditions
Variance for upper & lower level addition
3
Appeals to City Council—2001 through 2008
CC CC Action PC Decision
PC PC ActionFAppe.1ed By Upheld/
Address Description Hearing Appeal (App/Deny) Reversed
Amendment to Design Review forDeny w/o Den w/o
3066 Hillside Dr changes to approved 15`&2nd story 2/25/08 Prejudice Applicant 5/5/08 Prejudice Upheld
addition
Design Review,Hillside Area
1790 Escalante Wy Construction Permit,Variance&Special 5/27/08 Approve Neighbor 7/21/08 Approve Upheld
Permit for lsr&2"6 story addition
Design Review,Hillside Area Deny w/oDeny w/o Upheld
1837 Hunt Dr Construction Permit,Setback Variance& 6/23/08 Prejudice Applicant 8/18/08 Prejudice p
Special Permit for 111&2nd sto addition
917 Larkspur CUP's&lot coverage variance for new 9/22/08 Deny Applicant 10/20/08 Deny Upheld
accesso structure
Design Review&Special Permit fora Councilmember Deny wJo Reversed
1452 Drake Ave 11/24/08 Approve called u 12/15/08 Pre udice
new single family dwelling
SAPC APPROVALS=Appeals 2001-2008.doc
Revised 3/12/2009
4
Subarea A
• Subarea :
..
�, •., . . . . . Subarea s
W! Auto Row
Subarea B-1
..
Requiring a Conditional Use Permit
for real estate and financial institutions
` A
` ,.
No.1347 adopted by the City Council
,
on February 17,1987
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