HomeMy WebLinkAboutMin - PC - 2012.03.12CITY OF BURLINGAME PLANNING COMMISSION
EWPL71N9Ak E APPROVED MINUTES
Monday, March 12, 2012 - 7:30 p.m.
City Council Chambers - 501 Primrose Road
Burlingame, California
I. CALL TO ORDER
Chair Yie called the March 12, 2012, regular meeting of the Planning Commission to order at 7:30 p.m.
II. ROLL CALL
Present: Commissioners Auran, Gaul, Terrones, Vistica, Yie and Cauchi (arrived at 7:38 p.m.)
Absent: Commissioners Lindstrom
Staff Present: Community Development Director William Meeker; Associate Planner Erica Strohmeier; City
Attorney Gus Guinan; and Civil Engineer Doug Bell
III. MINUTES
Commissioner Terrones moved, seconded by Commissioner Auran to approve the minutes of the February
27, 2012 regular meeting of the Planning Commission, with the following changes:
Page 11, Commission Comments, last bullet; revise to read: "what is being done with the open area
between the bottom of the stair rail and the stair tread on the exterior stairs..."
Page 13, first bullet at top of page; replace "door" with "gate".
Page 13, Commission Comments, first bullet, second line; insert "historically" after "which".
Motion passed 5-0-2-0 (Commissioners Cauchi and Lindstrom absent).
IV. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
There were no changes to the agenda.
V. FROM THE FLOOR
No one spoke from the floor.
VI. STUDY ITEMS
1. 3018 ATWATER DRIVE, ZONED R-1-APPLICATION FOR HILLSIDE AREA CONSTRUCTION PERMIT,
SIDE SETBACK VARIANCE AND LOT COVERAGE VARIANCE FOR A SINGLE -STORY ADDITION TO
AN EXISTING SINGLE FAMILY DWELLING (RANDY GRANGE, TRG ARCHITECTS, APPLICANT AND
ARCHITECT; SAKKUBAI PRATHIKANTI, PROPERTY OWNER) STAFF CONTACT: ERICA
STROHMEIER
Associate Planner Strohmeier presented a summary of the staff report, dated March 12, 2012.
Questions of staff:
CITY OF BURLINGAME PLANNING COMMISSION — Approved Minutes March 12, 2012
None.
Commission comments:
• Can see the rationale for the lot coverage variance given that the deep eaves and atrium of the
Eichler -style home count towards the lot coverage.
■ Provide clarity as to the "need" for the project - Why is another bathroom being included next to the
master bedroom that already has a bathroom?
■ Confirm that lot coverage calculations are accurate taking into account that the shed is being
removed. (Strohmeier— numbers in the report are based upon staff calculations.)
■ Asked for clarification regarding counting the eave into the lot coverage. (Strohmeier — noted that
anytime the eave extends to 24-inches or greater, the entire feature is counted toward the setback.)
■ Show how the mechanical systems will be installed to service the addition.
This item was set for the Regular Action Calendar when all the information has been submitted and
reviewed by the Planning Department. This item concluded at 7:40 p.m.
Commissioner Cauchi arrived and took his place on the dais.
VII. ACTION ITEMS
Consent Calendar - Items on the Consent Calendar are considered to be routine. They are acted upon
simultaneously unless separate discussion and/or action is requested by the applicant, a member of the
public or a Commissioner prior to the time the Commission votes on the motion to adopt.
Chair Yie asked if anyone in the audience or on the Commission wished to call any item off the consent
calendar. There were no requests.
2a. 9 KENMAR WAY, ZONED R-1- APPLICATION FOR DESIGN REVIEW AND HILLSIDE AREA
CONSTRUCTION PERMIT FOR A FIRST AND SECOND STORY ADDITION TO AN EXISTING
SINGLE FAMILY DWELLING (MARK ROBERSTON, MARK ROBERTSON DESIGN, APPLICANT
AND DESIGNER; LESLIE MCKNEW TR AND CARY M. PLATKIN TR, PROPERTY OWNERS)
STAFF CONTACT: RUBEN HURIN
Commissioner Terrones moved approval of the Consent Calendar based on the facts in the staff reports,
Commissioner's comments and the findings in the staff reports, with recommended conditions in the staff
reports and by resolution. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Auran. Chair Yie called for a voice
vote on the motion and it passed 6-0-1-0 (Commissioner Lindstrom absent). Appeal procedures were
advised. This item concluded at 7:42 p.m.
VIII. REGULAR ACTION ITEMS
3. PROPOSED ORDINANCE AMENDING TITLES 22 AND 25 OF THE BURLINGAME MUNICIPAL CODE
(SIGN CODE AND ZONING CODE) — PROPOSED CHANGES TO THE SIGN CODE WOULD ADD
REFERENCES TO THE NEW ZONING DISTRICTS WITHIN THE DOWNTOWN SPECIFIC PLAN AND
ADD A MAXIMUM SINGLE SIGN SIZE IN CERTAIN COMMERCIAL DISTRICTS; CHANGES TO THE
ZONING CODE WOULD AMEND CHAPTER 25.33 TO CORRECT THE NUMBERING OF PERMITTED
USES IN THE HMU ZONING DISTRICT. STAFF CONTACT: MAUREEN BROOKS
Reference staff report dated March 12, 2012, with attachments. Community Development Director Meeker
presented the report.
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CITY OF BURLINGAME PLANNING COMMISSION — Approved Minutes March 12, 2012
Chair Yie opened the public hearing.
Commission comments:
Expressed concern about wall signs covering all of the vertical space on a signable area — need to
ensure that adequate "white space" is provided around signs. (Meeker — noted that the signage at
"Five Guys" occupies roughly 62% of the vertical dimension of the sign band on that tenant space
on Primrose Road — limiting the vertical dimension of signs to 60% would add one -inch above and
below that sign; applying a 55% limitation would increase the "white space" above and below by
two -inches.)
Noted a preference for a 55% limit in the height of signage relative to the height of an identified sign
band. (Meeker— noted that given that some signs may include upper-case and lower-case letters,
staff will need to use discretion and will require that an average of 55% be required in such
instances to provide flexibility in sign design and to ensure that signs are properly proportioned.)
Public comments:
None.
There were no further comments and the public hearing was closed.
Commissioner Terrones moved to recommend to the City Council, approval of the amendments to the Sign
Ordinance, with the following modification:
To Section 22.48.020(b) — Signable Area; revise to read: "Sign area shall not exceed a maximum of
eighty (80) percent of the signable area and no greater than fifty-five (55) percent of the vertical
dimension of a designated sign band, and in no event shall the sign area be greater than the
maximum sign area specified by this title for the zoning district in which the parcel is located. "
The motion was seconded by Commissioner Auran.
Discussion of motion:
None.
Chair Yie called for a voice vote on the motion to recommend approval to the City Council. The motion
passed 6-0-1-0 (Commissioner Lindstrom absent). The Planning Commission's action is advisory and not
appealable. This item concluded at 7:55 p.m.
4. 1480 BROADWAY, ZONED C-1, BROADWAY COMMERCIAL AREA — APPLICATION FOR
COMMERCIAL DESIGN REVIEW, CONDITIONAL USE PERMITS AND VARIANCES FOR A NEW
CANOPY AND CONVENIENCE STORE AT A GAS STATION (ROGER ABUYAGHI, APPLICANT AND
PROPERTY OWNER; KATHLEEN WARMAN, WARMAN ARCHITECTURE + DESIGN, ARCHITECT)
STAFF CONTACT: ERICA STROHMEIER
Reference staff report dated March 12, 2012, with attachments. Associate Planner Strohmeier presented
the report, reviewed criteria and staff comments. Thirteen (13) conditions were suggested for
consideration.
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CITY OF BURLINGAME PLANNING COMMISSION - Approved Minutes March 12, 2012
Commissioner Terrones indicated that he had listened to the recording of the last Commission meeting
when this matter was previously discussed on February 13, 2012 and felt prepared to participate in the
discussion this evening.
Questions of staff:
Are there guidelines for monument signs and/or other similar site features on a corner? Does the
monument sign comply with the City requirements? (Strohmeier — the prior design did not comply
with the City's requirements; however, the current design complies, though it still requires Public
Works Department and possibly CalTrans approval.)
Chair Yie opened the public hearing.
John Campanile, 205C Main Street, Pleasanton and Roger Abuyaghi, 1480 Broadway; represented the
applicant.
Commission comments:
■ Would prefer a smaller -scale monument sign; something more human -scale. May it be approved
by the Commission later as an FYI? (Campanile — agrees — doesn't want to block the view of the
store. Meeker — noted that the design of the monument sign is subject to administrative approval
by staff — it is not under the purview of the Planning Commission.)
■ Likes the spandrel glass that has been added.
■ Agrees with the location of the bike rack along Broadway.
■ Would prefer a larger bench — could be more useable.
■ Appreciates the changes to the design, but wants to be certain about the details.
■ With respect to the EFIS system; does the designer have experience with such systems — consider
using regular stucco? The west -facing wall could conceivably be problematic with cracking and
leakage if the EFIS system is used. (Campanile — will likely revise this aspect of the design and use
a regular stucco finish — will change accordingly.)
■ With respect to the plaster finish; consider a finish that has a more "old-world" somewhat irregular
appearance — something that gives the appearance of having been present for awhile. This design
element could comeback as an FYI item. (Meeker— concurred that the finish should comeback to
the Commission as an FYI item.)
■ With respect to the cornice line below the eave on the corner element; what are the materials to be
used? Smooth plaster over foam can be made to look like stone — this type of finish is preferable.
(Campanile — will be foam. Meeker — a sample finish can be brought back as an FYI item.)
■ Is prepared to support the project if the "detail" items are brought back to the Commission as FYI
items.
■ With respect to the variance; the property is a small, corner lot with circulation needs that limit how
the site may be developed. Are making the site better.
■ Asked if "keep clear" markings could be placed on Broadway to prevent east -bound Broadway
traffic from backing up traffic on El Camino Real.
■ On the front elevation, a light pole, traffic signal, City light pole and fire hydrant are present — have
not provided details on the plans to demonstrate that handicapped access will be provided along
these areas (public right-of-way) adjacent to the property - need to provide handicapped access on
the sidewalk. Could be nice to have another antique light fixture on the property. (Campanile — the
new signage will be placed on the property. All sidewalk improvements will comply with ADA, City
and CalTrans requirements. Meeker/Guinan — all ADA requirements will be reviewed for
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CITY OF BURLINGAME PLANNING COMMISSION — Approved Minutes March 12, 2012
compliance through the plan check process with review by the Building Official and the Department
of Public Works.)
■ Feels that certain items have not been completely studied — when a permit is issued what is built
could appear differently. (Campanile — have addressed all questions and concerns that have been
raised regarding the site development in the past. Will comply with any requirements that apply to
the design of the sidewalks.)
■ Spoke to a CalTrans representative (Robin Pon) regarding El Camino Real frontage properties —
noted that ingress and egress from El Camino Real for lots of less than 100-feet of frontage could
affect the design - could cause the curb -cut to be reduced in width. Could provide the opportunity
to install an additional tree. Assumes that the applicant has also discussed the maximum curb -cut
allowed from Broadway with Public Works staff.
■ With respect to the canopy, what will the facing material be below the tiles? (Campanile — ACN
panels as required by Conoco -Philips. There will be one "76" sign on each side. Are moving slowly
with development of the plans due to the economics of the project.)
■ Asked for clarification regarding future changes as plans are refined in response to other agencies'
requirements? Be certain to notify the Commission of changes before actually building the
revisions into the project. (Meeker — if changes occur, the changes can be brought forward to the
Commission as an FYI item.)
■ On floor plan, noted an error regarding the ACN panel note (Sheet A-101A — floor plan).
Public comments:
None.
There were no further comments and the public hearing was closed.
Additional Commission comments:
Likes the project; feels it has come a long way.
Agrees with comments regarding stucco finish.
Are protected if changes are required by the Public Works or Building Divisions or any other
regulatory agency which would affect the design of the building as approved by the Planning
Commission, these changes would need to be brought back to the Planning Commission for further
review.
Commissioner Cauchi moved to approve the application, by resolution, with the following amended
conditions:
that the project shall be built as shown on the plans submitted to the Planning Division date
stamped February 29, 2012, sheets cs and AS-101 through A-201;
2. that the exterior finish of the building shall be a stucco (three -coat plaster, not EFIS) finish — the
finish of the stucco, as well as details and finishing of the cornice material to be applied below the
roof of the corner element, a revision (subject to Department of Public Works approval) to include a
street lamp that matches the City street light, and any additional changes required through the
CalTrans and Department of Public Works approval processes, shall be submitted to the Planning
Commission for review as an FYI, in advance of issuance of a building permit for the project;
3. that two 24-inch box Chanticleer Pear trees, or other species approved by the City Arborist, shall be
installed in 3' square decomposed granite planters approved by the City in the sidewalk along
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CITY OF BURLINGAME PLANNING COMMISSION — Approved Minutes March 12, 2012
Broadway; if it is determined that the installation of these trees is not feasible due to the location of
existing underground utilities, the location and number of street trees shall be subject to review by
the Planning and Parks Divisions;
4. that any changes to the size or envelope of building, which would include changing or adding
exterior walls or parapet walls, shall require an amendment to this permit;
5. that any changes to building materials, exterior finishes, windows, architectural features, roof height
or pitch, and amount or type of hardscape materials shall be subject to Planning Division or
Planning Commission review (FYI or amendment to be determined by Planning staff);
6. that the conditions of the City Engineer's October 27, 2011, July 22, 2011 and May 31, 2011
memos; the Chief Building Official's January 18, 2012, December 22, 2011, November 15, 2011,
July 7, 2011 and May 24, 2011 memos; the Parks Supervisor's November 15, 2011 October 14,
2011 and June 1, 2011 memos; the Fire Marshal's October 24, 2011 and May 18, 2011 memos,
and the NPDES Coordinator's May 16, 2011 memo shall be met;
7. that demolition or removal of the existing structures and any grading or earth moving on the site
shall not occur until a building permit has been issued and such site work shall be required to
comply with all the regulations of the Bay Area Air Quality Management District;
8. that prior to issuance of a building permit for construction of the project, the project construction
plans shall be modified to include a cover sheet listing all conditions of approval adopted by the
Planning Commission, or City Council on appeal; which shall remain a part of all sets of approved
plans throughout the construction process. Compliance with all conditions of approval is required;
the conditions of approval shall not be modified or changed without the approval of the Planning
Commission, or City Council on appeal;
9. that the project shall comply with the Construction and Demolition Debris Recycling Ordinance
which requires affected demolition, new construction and alteration projects to submit a Waste
Reduction plan and meet recycling requirements; any partial or full demolition of a structure,
interior or exterior, shall require a demolition permit;
10. that the applicant shall comply with Ordinance 1503, the City of Burlingame Storm Water
Management and Discharge Control Ordinance;
11. that the project shall meet all the requirements of the California Building and Uniform Fire Codes,
2010 Edition, as amended by the City of Burlingame;
THE FOLLOWING CONDITIONS SHALL BE MET DURING THE BUILDING INSPECTION
PROCESS PRIOR TO THE INSPECTIONS NOTED IN EACH CONDITION
12. that prior to scheduling the framing inspection, the project architect, engineer or other licensed
professional shall provide architectural certification that the architectural details such as window
locations and bays are built as shown on the approved plans; if there is no licensed professional
involved in the project, the property owner or contractor shall provide the certification under penalty
of perjury. Certifications shall be submitted to the Building Department;
13. that prior to scheduling the roof deck inspection, a licensed surveyor shall shoot the height of the
roof ridge and provide certification of that height to the Building Division; and
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CITY OF BURLINGAME PLANNING COMMISSION — Approved Minutes March 12, 2012
14. that prior to final inspection, Planning Division staff will inspect and note compliance of the
architectural details (trim materials, window type, etc.) to verify that the project has been built
according to the approved Planning and Building plans.
The motion was seconded by Commissioner Terrones.
Discussion of motion:
None.
Chair Yie called for a voice vote on the motion to approve. The motion passed 6-0-1-0 (Commissioner
Lindstrom). Appeal procedures were advised. This item concluded at 8:32 p.m.
IX. DESIGN REVIEW STUDY ITEMS
5. 2504 HILLSIDE DRIVE, ZONED R-1 -APPLICATION FOR DESIGN REVIEW FOR A NEW, TWO-STORY
SINGLE FAMILY DWELLING AND DETACHED GARAGE (RICHARD M. SARGENT, APPLICANT AND
PROPERTY OWNER; CHU DESIGN ASSOCIATES INC., DESIGNER) STAFF CONTACT: RUBEN
HURIN
Reference staff report dated March 12, 2012, with attachments. Community Development Director Meeker
briefly presented the project description. There were no questions of staff.
Questions of staff:
None.
Chair Yie opened the public comment period.
James Chu, 55 West 43d Avenue, San Mateo and Richard Sargent, 2504 Hillside Drive; represented the
applicant.
Commission comments:
■ The existing bungalow looks tired.
■ With respect to the front elevation — appreciates the energy being placed to the front porch; the
front elevation looks a bit top-heavy. Want to be certain that it has been studied adequately. Is
there a different approach for the front that could place a secondary roof over the front porch that
could reduce the top-heavy appearance?
■ Side massing is done nicely.
■ With respect to the exterior light fixtures — light fixture next to the bay bump -out next to the dining
room; what is the purpose? (Chu — lights the driveway.)
■ Is concerned with potential neighbor impacts from the exterior lighting shown on the plans; unless
there is a real purpose, consider impacts on neighbors or using landscape lighting as a substitute.
■ Feels that the front entry door needs to have a wider statement — feels out of proportion with the
columns on the front porch. Could windows be provided, or a double -entry? (Chu — the entry is five -
feet wide, not a single -person entry — could be a drawing error.)
■ Feels the brackets above the porch are out of balance with the substantial columns; not the correct
proportion.
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CITY OF BURLINGAME PLANNING COMMISSION — Approved Minutes March 12, 2012
Consider surfacing the "hallway" leading to the front door with a smoother material that is easier to
walk next to, or of a different color.
Asked if the existing home was a "family" home, or recently purchased? (Sargent — recently
purchased.)
Public comments:
None.
There were no other comments from the floor and the public hearing was closed.
Commissioner Cauchi made a motion to place the item on the Regular Action Calendar when complete.
This motion was seconded by Commissioner Terrones.
Discussion of motion:
None.
Chair Yie called fora vote on the motion to place this item on the Regular Action Calendar when plans have
been revised as directed. The motion passed on a voice vote 6-0-1-0 (Commissioner Lindstrom absent).
The Planning Commission's action is advisory and not appealable. This item concluded at 8:45 p.m.
X. COMMISSIONERS' REPORTS
There were no Commissioner's Reports.
XI. DIRECTOR'S REPORT
Commission Communications:
Community Development Director Meeker noted that he would be absent from the March 26, 2012
Planning Commission meeting.
Actions from Regular City Council meeting of March 5, 2012:
Nothing to report.
FYI: 1352 Vancouver Avenue — review of requested changes to a previously approved Design
Review project:
Accepted.
FYI: Peninsula Hospital Complaint Log — February, 2012:
Accepted.
XII. ADJOURNMENT
Chair Yie adjourned the meeting at 8:46 p.m.
CITY OF BURLINGAME PLANNING COMMISSION — Approved Minutes March 12, 2012
Respectfully submitted,
Tim Auran, Secretary