HomeMy WebLinkAboutMin - PC - 1976.04.12THE CITY OF BURLINGAME PLANNING COMMISSION
COMMISSIONERS PRESENT
Francard
Jacobs
Kindig
Mink
Taylor
ROLL CALL
COMMISSIONERS ABSENT
Sine (excused)
April 12, 1976
OTHERS PRESENT
City Planner Swan
Asst. City Planner Yost
Asst. City Eng. Rebarchik
City Attorney Coleman
The above named members were present. City Planner Swan announced
that Chairman Sine was in the hospital for a checkup, and commented
that this was virtually his first absence since his initial appointment
to the Commission.
CALL TO ORDER
A regular meeting of the Burlingame Planning Commission was called to
order by Chairman Taylor on the above date at 7:30 P. M.
MINUTES
The minutes of the meeting of March 22, 1976 were approved as written.
1. FINAL DRAFT: NEW SIGN ORDINANCE, TITLE 22
Assistant City Planner Yost told Commissioners the amended draft in
their hands contained revisions suggested at the special meeting of
March 27. He requested Commission comment, suggestions or concerns
with the edited version. He considered that there was a consensus
that this draft is better than the present ordinance, and that the
Commission's primary objective has been to prepare a code which clearly
identifies a series of criteria and review lines below which the more
routine applications may be dealt with on an administrative basis.
Chairman Taylor found the draft code more than adequate. Commissioner
Jacobs had several concerns. One was the section on roof signs, page 8.
She understood that the present definition of a roof sign would
include fin signs, and therefore prohibit them; she considered this
unnecessary. Assistant City Planner Yost replied that this was one
of the points that the Chamber of Commerce had mentioned. They had
suggested that a sign on the roof of a building and a sign attached
to the front wall, projecting above the level of the parapet or
roof adjacent to the sign, should be treated differently; the first
should be prohibited, but the second type should be allowed.
Chairman Taylor considered the Commission had agreed that any kind
of sign which projects above the parapet or lowest level of the adjacent
roof was to be treated as a roof sign. Commissioner Jacobs made the
point that there are many fin signs in the city, she did not find
them objectionable, and they represented a lot of money invested.
Commissioner Mink thought the prohibition of roof signs as such was
a valid one. He suggested that projecting signs could be dealt with
by describing some limit to which they could project above the parapet.
He did not think the reasons for prohibiting roof signs were valid
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for projecting signs.
Commissioner Kindig thought that some fin signs were as objectionable
as roof signs. He thought there should be some kind of restriction on
them. Commissioner Francard suggested that fin signs should be
limited on weight and should not project too far above the roof.
Commissioner Mink agreed that for roof signs the major criteria was
the weight of a sign on a roof and the possibility of a sign coming
loose in an emergency situation and creating a public hazard. He
thought the same criteria should hold for fin signs. Commissioner
Jacobs repeated she would like to have fin signs allowed, within
specified limits. Assistant City Planner Yost stated a definition
could be prepared for this type of projecting sign. Chairman
Taylor agreed.this section could be amended. However, he did not
wish to be in the position of adopting an ordinance from which
variances are constantly granted.
Commissioner Jacobs then questioned Section 22.06.02 "Sign Permit
Required." Assistant City Planner Yost explained that the new code
provides that all applications for new signs would be reviewed by
the Planning Department. Commissioner Jacobs questioned who would
be enforcing the code. She considered that if it is in the code
it should be enforced, otherwise it is just words. City Attorney
Coleman pointed out that the way the code is written the Planners
would enforce it; and that staff does enforce as much as possible
with the time allotted. Chairman Taylor commented that if consideration
were given as to how a law would be enforced before it was adopted,
very few laws would be adopted.
Commissioner Jacobs questioned Section 22.54 "Temporary Signs",
which has no mention of garage sale signs. City Attorney Coleman
reviewed Code Section 6.22 which sets forth time limits for garage
sales and specifies that a sign no larger than 3 SF may be displayed
for the period of the sale.
Commissioner Jacobs objected to Section 22.46, "Political and Campaign
Signs" with its detailed requirements on sign placement, size and
numbers. She stated she did not think the Commission had a right to
tell people what to put in their windows or in their houses, and
that there was too much legislation already.
There followed much discussion pro and con restricting these signs,
and it was decided that while a policy of laissez faire could not
be followed, general requirements could be that in all zoning districts
political and campaign signs shall be limited to window signs, which
may only be displayed during periods of campaign activity.
There was some discussion of Section 22.58 "Window Signs" with its
limitation that 25% of window may be obscured by "Sale" signs without
a sign permit, and up to 50% could be obscured with a permit.
Commissioner Kindig received confirmation from Assistant City Planner
Yost that flashing lights are definitely prohibited.
Commissioner Mink requested confirmation that certain signs were
exempt in Section 22.36 "Freeway Signs." There were name of occupant
or owner of property, identification of premises, advertisement of
sale or lease of property on which the sign is placed.
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City Planner Swan noted that Redwood City has been experiencing
problems with balloon signs; a draft section to cover such sky signs
will be prepared.
Assistant City Planner Yost noted receipt of letter from Richard
Lavenstein requesting that the Commission re-examine the code with
relation to real estate signs. He distributed copies of this letter,
and Commissioners agreed this subject could be presented April 26
by Mr. Lavenstein.
Chairman Taylor then set the draft sign code for hearing on April 26,
1976.
2. ACCESSORY BUILDINGS IN RESIDENTIAL DISTRICTS (CONTINUED FROM
MARCH 8.
Assistant City Planner Yost reviewed informal report distributed to
Commissioners which covered accessory buildings in residential districts.
This included the following exhibits as attachments:
Exhibit A - Problems and Responses The Assistant City Planner stated
the intent of this exhibit is to identify those problems with
accessory buildings that should be addressed with new regulations.
Exhibit B - Construction Regulations A number of possible criteria
are listed.
Exhibit C - Use Regulations. Permitted uses of accessory buildings
need to be identified.
Exhibit D - Garage Diagram
Exhibit E - 40% Lot Coverage Diagrams.
Exhibit F - 1975-76 Aqenda Items Involvinq Accessory Buildinqs
Chairman Taylor asked if the Council had given any indication of how
much priority this has. The City Planner indicated they had not.
Commissioner Jacobs wondered if garages should even be considered
accessory buildings. She also thought the 500 SF of storage space
in the draft regulations was a lot of storage, but that the 8' plate
line seems to be logical. She did not want a flat roof and thought
there should be some setback requirement.
City Planner Swan presented the idea of a review line procedure which
would enable the Commission to hear petitions for accessory buildings
at a meeting without its being a public hearing. Commissioner Mink
disapproved, thinking some of the elements should have a more formal
procedure. Assistant City Planner Yost stated that a suitable
procedure could be identified for each of the criteria - some could
be petitions and others could require variances.
Commissioner Kindig suggested this be set for study at the next
study meeting for inspection in detail. Then the Planning staff
could prepare a draft ordinance. Chairman Taylor set this for a
study item on May 10, 1976.
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3. REORDER PRIORITIES FOR RECLASSIFICATIONS AND GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENTS:
WEST SIDE OF BAYSHORE HIGHWAY, NORTH SIDE OF AIRPORT BOULEVARD,
BROADWAY INTERCHANGE ENVIRONS, AND CALIFORNIA DRIVE FROM BROADWAY
TO HOWARD
City Planner Swan reviewed these areas starting with the north side
of Airport Boulevard which he noted is still shown on the General Plan
as light industrial. It is zoned C-4 and used to be M-1. The west
side of Bayshore Highway - The City Planner noted this is an area
where there have been many applications for special permits. He
noted, however, that in a review of an appeal for the use of a building
at 1555 Bayshore Highway by the City Council, he felt it was indicated
there was very little support for rezoning. He suggested that not
much time be spent on it.
Broadway Interchange - to him this meant both sides of Broadway and
possibly as far as Easton Creek, leaving Millsdale Industrial Park
Subdivision M-1. He considered that particular area deserves some
consideration. The frontage on Rollins Road could be considered
for C-1, and the area south of Broadway considered for C-1 and C-2.
Broadway to Oak Grove - all of the frontage on the west side is C-2 alreadjj
but the uses vary considerably. The City does not have enough C-2
area.
Area between Oak Grove and Howard - he noted that the Commission
may wish to classify a portion of California Drive west of Burlingame
Avenue from C-2 to C-1. Area south of Burlingame Avenue - the City
Planner referenced diagram suggesting what area might be rezoned from
C-1 to C-2 in the block immediately south of Burlingame Avenue.
Quoting from his memo to the Commission, the City Planner noted the
Thorstenson appeal was heard by Council on April 5. The Council
overruled the Planning Commission and granted the special permit
for a period of six months, with a suggestion from Council that
the Commission and staff study the area for the possibility of changing
the zoning to C-2.
He suggested a possible Commission hearing on April 26. However,
Commissioners considered it should have more information and time
for evaluation. They suggested that it be reviewed at the May
study meeting.
There was a suggestion that there be some kind of a traffic impact
study. It was noted that an EIR must be prepared on this reclassi-
fication.
4. DRAFT ENVIRONMENTAL -IMPACT REPORT, EIR-35P, FOR PROPOSED 3 -STORY
OFFICE BUILDING PROJECT AT 1203 HOWARD AVENUE, BY JOSEPH GELLER AND
CITY OF BURLINGAME (CONTINUED FROM MARCH 22, 1976.)
Chairman Taylor introduced this subject for Commission consideration
and requested staff report.
City Planner Swan told Commissioners this EIR has been revised to
incorporate Commission suggestions made during meeting of March 22.
He said it has been amplified considerably; and in cooperation with
Mr. Geller, has been modified so that it is adequate, complete, and
accurate. This EIR provides information about the special permit for
building at 1203 Howard Avenue, Agenda Item No. 5.
Chairman Taylor asked for Commission comments. Commissioner Mink
found the EIR well written and well documented. Commissioner Kindig
considered it comprehensive. Chairman Taylor states for the purpose
of record that it is not the purpose of the Commission to approve or
disapprove the EIR but rather to determine whether it is adequate,
accurate and consistent.
Commissioner Jacobs questioned the ". . protection of openings in
the rear wall," page 2. It was explained by the City Planner that
such openings must be of a protected design and/or with wired glass
or other methods.
Commissioner Mink moved that the Planning Commission accept EIR-35P
and its attachment "Summary and Evaluation by City Planner," and
recommend such to the City Council. Commissioner Kindig seconded
the motion and it carried on unanimous roll call vote.
5. SPECIAL PERMIT TO ALLOW A BUILDING THAT WILL EXCEED 75% LOT
COVERAGE AT 1203 HOWARD AVENUE (APN 029-224-060) ZONED C-1,
BY JOSEPH GELLER (CONTINUED FROM MARCH 22, 1976)
Chairman Taylor commented that this item had been continued from a
previous meeting, but no testimony had been taken at that meeting. He
invited Mr. Joseph Geller to address the Commission.
Mr. Geller reviewed his proposed three story office building project,
stating it was before the Planning Commission because it will exceed
75% lot coverage. While the building would cover 100% of the lot,
its 14,550 SF gross floor area is under the 15,000 SF allowed by the
code. Also, cutting the lot coverage back to 75% would result in
the gain of only four parking spaces. For these reasons, he considered
request for special permit reasonable. He also pointed out that his
lot is in the Downtown Parking Assessment District and no credit
has been taken on the bonds. He noted this C-1 lot has no side yard
or rear yard restrictions. A 35' height is permitted by ordinance,
which he assumed to mean three stories.
Commissioner Mink confirmed that Ordinance 1025 mentions a floor
area ratio of 3 to 1 in the Commercial district, which would indicate
a three story building.
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City Planner Swan stated:
"A three-story office building covering 75% of the project site would
have 11,250 SF of gross floor area. The proposed project would have
about 2,700 SF more floor area. Without the parking district exemption,
this amount of office floor area would require 9 parking spaces.
"The proposed project would have about 4,800 SF of gross floor area
on the third floor and would require 16 parking spaces.
"I think the property owner should help finance from 9 to 16 new
parking spaces within 600 feet of the project site."
Chairman Taylor queried if Mr. Geller would accept this as a condition
of his special permit. Mr. Geller replied he would not consider
this a valid condition, and stated he knew of no legal basis for requiring
a property owner to buy parking when he was already paying for it.
He submitted that the problem of parking was a problem of the Assessment
District. He thought if the City did not wish to create any additional
parking, there would be no new development.
In reply to Chairman Taylor's question, City Planner Swan verified
that Parking District Assessment was based on the assessed evaluation
of the land. Chairman Taylor then compared assessed evaluation of
land of $4,700 in 1963 and of $1,625 in 1970 when the district was
formed, with the present assessed evaluation of land of $15,000
in 1975. Mr. Geller protested that what he paid for the property
had nothing to do with the parking problem and in his opinion it
would be illegal to reassess his property for the parking district
without a general reassessment of all lots.
Commissioner Jacobs noted one of her concerns as being the juxtaposition
of C-1 and R-4 without a transition zone. She thought there were
several such lots and remarked she could not argue on the 75%-100%
lot coverage when there was nothing to correct such C-1 properties.
Commissioner Taylor again spoke to the point made in the EIR that a
ministerial alternative would be a building covering 75% of the
lot with 11,250 SF of gross floor area. He computed that the 3,500 SF
extra for the proposed project would require an extra eleven parking
spaces. Mr. Geller noted that at$4,000-5,000 per space it would mean
a contribution of approximately $60,000. He commented that it was
suggested 11,250 SF could be put in without anything in the way of
parking, but the extra 3,500 SF would have to be at the full ratio.
He mentioned again the fact that the ordinance allows 15,000 SF in
the Parking District.
Chairman Taylor requested audience comment. Mr. Joseph Karp, 1920
Carmelita, responded. He stated he was the owner of considerable
property in the parking district; had seen Mr. Geller's plan and
thought it would be an asset to the community. He thought the use
was a proper one. There were no further comments and the public
hearing was declared closed.
At the Chairman's request, Secretary Jacobs read correspondence in
the file. This included letter dated 3/22/76 from Jess S. Jackson, Jr.
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180 Park Road, in favor of the project, and stating that while there
is a parking problem, the problem is within the Burlingame Parking
Assessment District and should not be the basis for impeding desired
improvements. Other letters were from Ben Ku, 226 Lorton Avenue,
dated March 22, 1976 and in favor of the project; Tait Auction Studio,
1209 Howard Avenue, dated March 22, 1976 and in favor of the project;
S. L. Griffiths, Inc., 256 Lorton Avenue, dated March 22, 1976 and
in favor of the project; letter from Carr, McClellan, Ingersoll,
Thompson & Horn, 216 Park Road, dated March 18, 1976 approving the
project, but suggesting that Mr. Geller make a contribution toward
the Parking Fund.
Commissioner Mink commented that in his opinion the issue does not
lie with the property, but the problem is with the parking district.
He considered that there are solutions that could be arranged to
resolve the problem but this is not the responsibility of the Planning
Commission and the code is no guideline to the Commission when it
talks about a 3 to one ratio and then it talks about 75% lot coverage.
The code is ambiguous. He added that he thought the Parking District
and the Council have to get together. He stated he saw nothing wrong
with Mr. Geller's application in the light of one set of regulations
and he did not choose to invoke another set of regulations to vote
against it.
Commissioner Kindig tended to agree with Commissioner Mink. He did
not wish to see Mr. Geller disadvantaged. However, he did notwant
him to receive an advantage subsidized by the taxpayer, and felt he
could not recommend this project to the Council.
Commissioner Mink, remarking on alternatives, stated as an example
of ambiguity, that Mr. Geller could have come in for four stories
with the first floor being entirely parking, or could have proposed
three stories with underground parking. Chairman Taylor questioned
if Mr. Geller's proposal should be considered without regard to the
Parking District. Commissioner Mink agreed. Commissioner Francard
questioned if it was fair to penalize any one piece of property in
the District if the District needed working over. Commissioner Jacobs
stated she would be willing to vote for the special permit with the
incorporation of Commissioner Mink's remarks to Council. Chairman
Taylor stated he thought it was the unanimous feeling of the
Planning Commission that this is a problem of the Parking District
and that Mr. Geller came in with a straightforward proposal. He
tended to agree with Commissioner Mink that he was not entitled as
a Planning Commissioner to advise Mr. Geller in relation to the
Parking District.
Commissioner Mink told Commission members that the expansion of data
and the revised content of the EIR made this a well documented proposal
which is aimed at the particular circumstances that Mr. Geller was in
with regard to the Parking District.
Commissioner Jacobs moved the special permit be granted. Commissioner
Mink seconded the motion and it carried on the following roll call
vote:
AYES: COMMISSIONERS: FRANCARD,JACOBS,MINK,TAYLOR
NAYES: COMMISSIONERS: KINDIG
ABSENT: COMMISSIONERS: SINE
Commissioner Mink requested that a communication be sent from the
Planning Commission to the City Council and the Parking District
stating the Commission's concerns about:
1. Ambiguities of the code
2. The difficulty of dealing with Parking District issues at the
Planning Commission level
and asking that Council and the Parking District work to solve this
problem.
There was general Commission concurrence that this should be done.
Commissioner Mink then moved that his remarks in regard to the Parking
District be sent to the Council for its consideration with the Geller
EIR. Commissioner Jacobs seconded the motion and it carried by voice
vote.
6. SIGN PERMIT FOR ONE WALL SIGN OF 48 SF AND ONE PROJECTING SIGN
WITH 16 SF PER FACE AT 1308 BURLINGAME AVENUE BY INGEBORG'S
BROADWAY PANTRY BAKERY.
At the request of Chairman Taylor, Assistant City Planner Yost
reviewed this application. He told Commissioners that a wall sign
4' x 13' with copy "Bakery", illuminated, is proposed, together with
projecting sign 4' x 435', copy "Ingeborg's Bakery", also illuminated.
He explained sign details and placement and noted that the new sign
code suggests a business with a frontage such as this should be limited
to 50 SF of advertising.
Chairman Taylor noted these signs are within the code with the
exception of size. Commissioner Jacobs questioned the bakery
canopy and Assistant City Planner Yost told her there is an older
sign which goes along the skirt of the canopy.
The applicant, a Mr. Hammer, was invited to speak. He considered the
new signs would present a much better appearance, and in reply to
a question from Commissioner Kindig as to why these bakery signs
must be lighted, he stated because other signs on Burlingame Avenue
are all lighted. Commissioner Kindig considered having two signs
lighted was excessive. He also considered the signage area too
large.
There were no audience comments when requested by the Chairman and
the public hearing was declared closed.
Commissioner Mink suggested the signs be scaled down, but Mr. Hammer
informed him that this sign company makes only this one size and he
would have to choose another company. Some discussion followed,
with Commissioners in general agreeing that these signs were too
large for this frontage. Commissioner Mink moved the sign applica-
tion be rejected. Commissioner Jacobs seconded the motion and it
carried on unanimous roll call vote, Commissioner Sine absent.
7. SIGN PERMIT FOR 160 SF PAINTED WALL SIGN AT 1454 BROADWAY BY
GERALD H. WEINER FOR DON'S T.V. SERVICE, GEORGE WELLS DRAPERY
AND JEANNE COLES ANTIQUES.
Chairman Taylor announced this application for Commission consideration.
Upon his request for staff report, Assistant City Planner Yost reviewed
the application. His remarks are contained in staff report dated
4/12/76, exhibit attached to last page of these minutes and incor-
porated herein by reference.
City Attorney Coleman requested that staff define "permanent window
sign." The Assistant City Planner stated this is a window sign
which under the new code would be subject to review. It is permanently
in place and is not a paper sign.
Mr. Weiner was invited to address the Commission and emphasized
as reasons for his application the fact that the wall sign is presently
outdated with former tenants' names, and it represents a large area
which could be used. He thought these three businesses should not
be limited to the signage fronting on Broadway.
Commissioner Kindig questioned what purpose the columnar signs
served. Mr. Weiner said they were used because that was all the
space that was available. The Commissioner commented on the small
size of window signs, 4 SF and 2 SF, of Wells Drapery and Coles
Antiques in comparison to the 18 SF for Don's T.V.
There was no response to the Chair's request for audience comment and
the public hearing was declared closed.
Commissioner Jacobs commented that the problem was with the large
sign area desired by Don's TV rather than the more reasonable expecta-
tions of Wells Drapery and Coles Antiques. Commissioner Francard
questioned why there were 14 existing signs. Mr. Weiner stated they
wanted all the identification they could get and these signs are small.
Considerable discussion followed of the objectionable aspects of
phone numbers being included in the signs. There was also objection
to the words, "Free Estimates." Mr. Weiner objected that the
Commission was telling him how to run his business, and questioned
what the phone numbers hurt except the Commission's feelings.
He rebutted objection that the wall sign was visible from a residential
zone across El Camino by reminding Commissioners that this wall sign
must be viewed by looking over a service station with signs all over
it.
City Attorney Coleman remarked that text was never restricted unless
it came up on a permit. Mr. Weiner stated it was not clear to him
how much his signage was over the permitted area. Chairman Taylor
noted he would have no problems if he would go along with the permitted
sign area. Mr. Weiner offered to advertise just Don's TV on the wall
sign, remarking that the other two then could not have their phone
numbers there. Commissioner Mink pointed out that the present wall
sign is obsolete and should have been removed. Therefore, the
Commission is actually dealing with a blank wall and the signage
proposed for it is too much. He moved that this sign permit be
denied. Commissioner Jacobs seconded the motion and it carried on
unanimous roll call vote, Commissioner Sine absent. Chairman Taylor
noted that the applicant could appeal the decision to the City
Council, and pointed out that the owner of the building should determine
when the wall sign will be removed.
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8. TENTATIVE PARCEL MAP, BEING A RESUBDIVISION OF LOT 6, EDWARDS
INDUSTRIAL PARK (RSM VOL. 58/43) AT 1410 ROLLINS ROAD, ZONED M-1
BY EDWARD W. BACA FOR ROBERT L. HAMMETT OF HAMMETT & EDISON
REAL ESTATE (PROPERTY OWNER)
City Planner Swan exhibited parcel map to the Commission noting that
newly created Parcel 2 would be accessible only from Marsten Road.
This must be accomplished by means of a bridge across the channel;
thus the parcel map would effectively preclude ever connecting Marsten
Road to Edwards Court.
He stated the Fire Department has indicated they would like to have
an address for this parcel, and quoted memo from Fire Inspector
Pearson dated 4/12/76 that, due to the unusual location of the newly
created property, any building placed on it should be sprinklered.
City Attorney Coleman commented that the City is granting an easement
for the bridge and also is getting lines of access along the channel.
There was some Commission discussion and a question on design of the
bridge. Mr. Hammett told Commissioners he had been in contact with
the City Engineer and the bridge would be subject to the approval
of the City Emgineer, and of a width satisfactory to Fire Chief
Moorby.
This application was set for hearing April 26, 1976.
9. VARIANCE TO CONSTRUCT A GARAGE WITHIN THE FRONT SETBACK AT
1280 CORTEZ AVENUE (APN 026-152-120) ZONED R--1 BY PETER E. GORT.
At the request of Chairman Taylor, Assistant City Planner Yost reported
on this application, stating this small home at the corner of
Cortez and Easton has a swimming pool in the rear yard. The applicant
wishes to convert the existing garage at the rear of the house into
a family room, adding more space and providing a view of the pool from
the house; however, this would require the construction of a new
two car garage at the front of the house. This new garage would be
within the front setback.
The Assistant City Planner explained site plan to Commissioners,
rioting it appeared that the coverage would be approximately 40%, and
stated the application was complete and could be set for hearing.
Assistant City Engineer Rebarchik noted the applicant would be required
to replace curb and sidewalks involved in this construction.
There was little Commission discussion and the application was set
for hearing April 26, 1976.
10. VARIANCE TO CONSTRUCT A SECOND FLOOR ADDITION TO A HOUSE WITH
NON -CONFORMING REAR YARD AT 1545 LA MESA DRIVE (APN 027-021-030)
ZONED R-1 BY RICHARD E. WARNE.
Assistant City Planner Yost commented on the unusual features of
this site, which involves a house situated on a steep hillside. The
two story house is at the back away from the street and has only a
5' rear yard. The garage is at the upper level.
The applicant proposes to build a new family room over the present garage
to expand the house.
There was little comment and the application was set for hearing
April 26, 1976.
11. SPECIAL PERMIT FOR SALE OF FOOD AT RETAIL AT 1881-A AND B
ROLLINS ROAD (APN 025-162-010) ZONED M-1 BY JOSE MUSETTI,
ART MARCOTTE AND JIM USELMAN OF BACKALLEY DELI (APPLICANTS)
WITH G. J. AMOROSO (PROPERTY OWNER)
At the request of Chairman Taylor, Assistant City Planner Yost reviewed
this application for retail sale of food. He explained site plan to
Commissioners, stating the applicant wishes to use an existing
building at the rear of the lot for this business. The applicant
will sell light take-out food with some space for sit-down customers.
Hours will be from 7:00 A. M. to 5:00 P. M. Eleven parking spaces
will be marked for customers.
The Assistant City Planner noted this should be reviewed in terms
of other businesses on the site as to compatibility. He stated it is
indicated there is adequate parking on the site. He also noted
receipt of documentation of another business of this type run by
the applicants which indicates character of the operation. He
considered that the application was complete and could be set for
hearing.
Mr. Jim Uselman told Commissioners that this operation would be a
fast food service primarily for lunches. Food would be mostly
sandwiches, and 75%-80% of food would be taken out. There would be
no retail sale of delicatessen items, and advertising would be by
word of mouth, with possibly a small conforming sign. Patrons
would be from the surrounding offices and other businesses.
This application was set for hearing on April 26, 1976.
12. SPECIAL PERMIT FOR SALE OF CLOTHES AT RETAIL AT 27 EDWARDS COURT
(APN 026-102-100) ZONED M-1, BY MARTIN KANTOFF (APPLICANT) WITH
ANDREW MORROW (PROPERTY OWNER.)
Chairman Taylor requested staff report on this application. City
Planner Swan showed Commissioners diagram of the site and the portion
of the building that the clothing outlet would occupy. The applicant
has a 1,600 SF auto parts warehouse. He wants to divide this into
two portions and use one as a factory clothing outlet with weekend
hours of Fridays 4:00 P. M. to 10:00 P. M., Saturdays 9:00 to 5:00
P.M.; Sundays 9:00 to 5:00 P. M. The City Planner said that this is
a retail use that could be considered a conditional use with a
special permit. Since the site is not visible from Rollins Road, he
questioned identification for the business. He stated he had informed
Mr. Kantoff there were other commercial areas in the city where a use
permit would not be required.
Mr. Kantoff was given permission to address the Commission. He
told them this would be a discount outlet for quality clothing,
designer clothing, good name brands. This clothing would not be
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seconds. He said he had deliberately chosen these weekend hours so
that parking problems in the area would be avoided. There would be no
employees other than himself and his wife. Advertising would initially
be done with flyers and word of mouth. There would be no sign.
There was little discussion. This item was set for hearing April 26,
1976.
13. SPECIAL PERMIT TO OPERATE A BRAKE AND TIRE SHOP AT 1028 CAROLAN
AVENUE (APN 026-240-290) ZONED M-1 BY JOHN ROMERO (APPLICANT)
WITH OSCAR PERSON (PROPERTY OWNER)
Chairman Taylor requested staff report on this application. City
Planner Swan noted that a special permit had been granted in 1971
to Peninsula General Tire for this site, but the building had been
unoccupied for some time. The new applicant will occupy all of the
property at the rear exclusive of the building rented to the
Woodcraft shop. He displayed and explained site plan, and noted that
a brake and tire shop would be permitted in this area with a special
permit. This is similar to the previous use.
Mr. John Romero answered Commission questions to the effect that he
has a lease for this property, there would be no new building constructed,
but he would remodel to the extent of painting, etc. Services would
be less extensive than Peninsula General Tire since he would do only
brake work and tuneup and no automotive repair. There would be only
three employees. There was some discussion as to compatibility of
this use with the new police station.
This application was set for hearing on April 26, 1976.
14. SPECIAL PERMIT TO OPERATE A XEROX COPY CENTER AT 1555 BAYSHORE
HIGHWAY (APN 026-321-370) ZONED M-1 BY PAUL WHITE OF REPRODUCTION
CENTERS OF AMERICA (APPLICANT) AND NEIL J. VANNUCCI (PROPERTY
OWNER)
City Planner Swan reviewed this application and explained site plan
to Commissioners. He noted this is the same building where a beauty
salon had been proposed, but that the partitioning would be arranged
differently. The same area will be open so that people in the building
can go in the copy center. Also with this use the toilet facilities
at the back corner would be accessible for the use of the building.
This copy center would occupy 1423 SF of gross floor area. He noted
that parking requirements for this retail service would be less than
for office space.
Mr. Paul White was given permission to address the Commission and
explained that he would have in the center a 9200 Xerox machine,
a light copying machine and a light color machine. He estimated that
only two people would be employed, and he might consider binding
work. He also estimated that he would have only 8 cases of paper
in stock at one time.
City Planner Swan read letter of April 12, 1976 from Neil J. Vannucci
for V & T Investments requesting the Commission to include this
company on the application for this special permit.
This application was set for hearing on April 26, 1976.
-13 -
15. SPECIAL PERMIT TO OPERATE A NURSERY SCHOOL AT 900 EL CAMINO REAL
(APN 029-011-020) ZONED R-3, BY .ELISABETH FAIRWEATHER.
At the request of Chairman Taylor, Assistant City Planner Yost reviewed
this application. He exhibited site plans and floor plans of the
project, a nursery school for 36 children which will operate from
7:00 A. M. to 6:00 P. M. He had two major concerns: Is this
6,000 SF lot and the present house adequate for the 36 children?
How many parents can safely pick up their children at one time at
this location? He pointed out that the two car garage, which is
attached to the house, is to be converted into a play room. However,
the garage is built to the side property line and is non -conforming;
the proposed conversion will therefore require a variance. Another
variance will be necessary for the front porch of the house which is
to be enclosed and converted into an office.
The Assistant City Planner noted that the house would not be occupied
for living purposes, but would be fully converted for the nursery
school. Mrs. Fairweather is seeking non-profit status, and any
approval must be conditioned upon this status.
Mrs. Fairweather told Commissioners children would be from 23� years
old to kindergarten age, there are kitchen facilities, and children
would be served lunch and a snack in mid-morning and mid-afternoon.
There was some Commission comment with regard to the safety of children
in this location and the amount of traffic impact.
Chairman Taylor set this application for hearing April 26, 1976
with the understanding that Mrs. Fairweather be instructed that two
variances would also be required.
16. HEDGE EXCEPTION TO ALLOW AN EXISTING HEDGE TO EXCEED 3' IN
HEIGHT WITHIN 15' FROM A STREET INTERSECTION AT 200 OCCIDENTAL
AVENUE, ZONED R-1, BY FREDERICK YEAGER
The Assistant City Planner told Commissioners this hedge is 4'
high. The applicant letter lists a number of points in favor of
keeping this hedge at this height, and the City Traffic Engineer has
been asked to prepare a communication commenting on each of these
points. He considered this report would be available by the meeting
of April 26. City Attorney Coleman noted that notice letters must
be sent on this application, and City Planner Swan suggested a report
from Commissioner Francard on how long the hedge would maintain at a
3' height if trimmed. This application was set for hearing April 26,1976.
CITY PLANNER REPORT - The City Planner reported that Mr. Edward
Dowd had requested a 30 -day continuance on his application.
He announced a meeting of the Regional Planning Committee of San
Mateo County at 6:30 P. M., Thursday, April 22, 1976 at Crystal
Springs Golf Club. Quentin L. Kopp is to be guest speaker.
ADJOURNMENT - The meeting regularly adjourned at 12:00 P. M.
Respectfully submitted,
Ruth Jacobs
Secretary
EXHIBIT FOR SIGN PERMIT - DON'S T.V.SERVICE, GEORGE WELLS DRAPERY,
AGENDA ITEM 7 - Sign Permit Application JEANNE COLES ANTIQUES.
1452-54 Broadway is a 45' wide building with 3 shops, each of which
has a number of small existing signs near their street entrances. An
older painted sign on a sidewall of the building overlooks a neighbc ring
gas station. This sign advertises 3 businesses which no longer operate
in Burlingame.
This application is a proposal by the 3 busines3cs presently occupying
these shops to repaint the existing wall sign of 160 SF (S;gn A below)
with new copy; see attached drawing for details.
Existing Signs
the following:
Don's TV: painted wall sign
80
A. Painted on side wall
Anna's
Attic Treasures
40
SF
14
SF
Star
Pool i. Patio
4r)
SF
160
SF
Manny's
Cleaners
80
SF
40
B. Attached to columns
Don's
TV
7
SF 1
14-
at front of shops
Don's
TV
7
SF
4
SF
Wells
Drapery
7
SF
42
SF
Wells
Drapery
7
SF
14
SF
Coles
Antiques
7
SF
2
SF
Coles
Antiques
7
S.-
.C.
is close
C."Permanent" window
Don's
TV
6
�iF
112
signs
Don's
TV
6
SF
Don's
Free Estimates
6
SF
24
Wells
Drapery
4
SF
Coles
Antiques
2
SF
TOTAL =
226
The new sign code -suggests that 3 businesses wit,: separate entrances occupying
a building with 45' of frontage are each entitled to 50 SF of signage. The
existing column signs and permanent window signs described above would be
Included in this total.
If approved, this application would allow
the following:
Don's TV: painted wall sign
80
SF
(new)
`.
column signs
14
SF
(existing)
j
112
window signs
18
SF
"
J
Wells Drapery: painted wall sign
40
SF
(new)
1
column signs
14-
SF
(existing)
58
window signs
4
SF
It
Coles Antiques: painted wall sign
40
SF
(new)
1
column signs
14
SF
(existing)
>.
56
window signs
2
SF
"
For two of these businesses this proposal
is close
to
the review
line
for new
signage. The third business, Don's TV, would have
112
SF, considerably
more
than the 50 SF standard agreed by the Commission.
WMS/JRY/s
Tr