HomeMy WebLinkAboutMin - PC - 1988.10.11CITY OF BURLINGAME PLANNING COMMISSION
OCTOBER 11, 1988
CALL TO ORDER
A regular meeting of the Planning Commission, City of Burlingame
was called to order by Chairman Jacobs on Tuesday, October 11, 1988
at 7:30 P.M.
ROLL CALL
Present: Commissioners Ellis, Garcia, Giomi, H. Graham,
S. Graham, Harrison, Jacobs
Absent: None
Staff Present: Margaret Monroe, City Planner; Jerome Coleman,
City Attorney; Frank Erbacher, City Engineer; Bill
Reilly, Fire Marshal
MINUTES - The minutes of the September 26, 1988 meeting were
unanimously approved with the following correction:
Item #9, page 3, last paragraph, fourth line, change
"they were" to read "he was".
AGENDA - Order of the agenda approved.
ITEMS FOR STUDY
1. SPECIAL PERMIT - INSTALLATION OF A SATELLITE DISH -
3 CALIFORNIA DRIVE
Requests: why the proposed location on the building which is
closest to a San Mateo residential area; what will be transmitted,
who will be using it, how many people and how many at one time,
will it be limited to this dealership or open to other Mazda
dealerships; letter from applicant as to why it is necessary;
information on installation, placement of base of antenna and how
base attached; what is the purpose, training or entertainment; if
it is for entertainment why not cable TV. Item set for public
hearing October 24, 1988.
2. SIGN EXCEPTION AMENDMENT - 1010 CADILLAC WAY
Requests: is this signage oriented toward the freeway; have Rector
signs facing Carolan been removed; how high are other wall signs in
the immediate area. Item set for public hearing October 24, 1988.
Burlingame Planning Commission Minutes Page 2
October 11, 1988
3. SPECIAL PERMIT AMENDMENT, TWO VARIANCES AND A FENCE
EXCEPTION - 1730 ROLLINS ROAD
Requests: letter addressing the need for a fence exception and
findings for the variances; verify parking dimensions along the
side of the building; diagram of railroad right-of-way for future
parking; did applicant purchase this S.P. right-of-way; explanation
of the need for an encroachment permit; does the shed with deck
need building permit. Item to be set for public hearing by staff
when corrected plans and all requested information have been
received.
ITEMS FOR ACTION
4. TWO VARIANCES AND A SPECIAL PERMIT FOR A SECOND STORY
ADDITION AT 777 WILLBOROUGH ROAD, ZONED R-1
Reference staff report, 10/11/88, with attachments. CP Monroe
reviewed details of the request, staff review, Planning staff
comment, applicant's letter, study meeting questions. One
condition was suggested for consideration at the public hearing.
CP advised a variance is not needed for the width of the driveway,
that is an existing condition.
Chm. Jacobs opened the public hearing. Michael Nilmeyer,
architect, referred to his letter discussing this 40' wide lot
which does not offer much leeway for additions to an existing
residence; the living room has a vaulted ceiling, cannot build over
that area easily; building code requirement for width of stairways
leaves very little room to obtain two good sized bedrooms upstairs;
if the second floor were set in it would result in a substandard
sized bedroom, 9' in width; to mitigate the smaller side setback
they have set the plate line at 6'-611, approximately 18" less than
normal; they wish to keep the addition to the rear portion of the
house and not disrupt the front roof line and appearance of the
house from the street. Mr. Nilmeyer presented four letters in
support from neighbors.
The Chair noted the need for findings to support the variance
request, why is it necessary to have four bedrooms. Applicant and
Commission discussed distance of the second story addition from
existing homes and windows in the addition. Peter Vogel, property
owner, told Commission he is a free-lance photographer operating
out of his home, this is a small two bedroom house and he uses one
of the existing bedrooms for an office, he has lived there since
July, 1988. Architect explained how they could decrease the second
floor plate line. There were no audience comments and the public
hearing was closed.
Commission comment: have no problem with the variance for parking
but do have a problem with the variance to side yard setback, the
Burlingame Planning Commission Minutes Page 3
October 11, 1988
addition will add more bulk; the closest neighboring structure is
9-1/2, from the addition of the second story, the other side and
rear are even farther away from neighbors, due to the slope of the
roof the addition won't affect neighbors at all.
C. Giomi moved for approval of the two variances and special permit
and for adoption of Commission Resolution Approving Special Permit
and Two Variances with the following condition: (1) that the
project shall be built consistent with the plans submitted to the
Planning Department and date stamped September 20, 1988. She found
there were exceptional circumstances in the substandard size of the
lot, the fact that the building improvement is set back from the
neighbors, no objections have been received from neighbors; the
variances are necessary for the preservation of a property right of
the owner in that there is no other reasonable way to add to the
house; the granting of the variances will not be detrimental to the
public health, safety or welfare or injurious to other property
owners, and will not change the zoning of the site. Motion was
seconded by C. Garcia.
Comment on the motion: find the addition will be injurious to other
property owners and to the zoning of the city, it is a small lot on
a narrow street, if in future applicant sells there would be a four
bedroom home at this location which could accommodate more people.
Motion was approved on a 5-2 roll call vote, Cers Harrison and
Jacobs voting no. Appeal procedures were advised.
5. TWO VARIANCES AND A SPECIAL PERMIT TO RECONSTRUCT AN
EXISTING NONCONFORMING GARAGE AT 825 LINDEN AVENUE,
ZONED R-1
Reference staff report, 10/11/88, with attachments. CP Monroe
reviewed details of the request, staff review, Planning staff
comment, applicant's letter, letter received after preparation of
staff report requesting applicant be allowed to retain a wet bar
facility in the family room, study meeting questions. Six
conditions were suggested for consideration at the public hearing.
Responding to questions, CP advised site plan indicates there is
room in the back for a standard two car garage, the bar/sink has
hot and cold water.
Chm. Jacobs opened the public hearing. Peter Scopazzi, applicant,
advised he had added a second unit, he would like to keep the
garage in its present location, he has lived here for 20 years. A
Commissioner asked why the garage couldn't be moved 21; applicant
felt it is ideally situated now, he has privacy, can keep the gate
between the buildings and the courtyard area for a garden with the
apple tree; the apple tree is 10' from the rear fence and 10' from
the garage. Applicant stated he would not object to extending the
garage to accommodate tandem parking. A Commissioner noted he
Burlingame Planning Commission Minutes Page 4
October 11, 1988
could make the garage 40' , it would require trimming of some of
the branches of the apple tree; another Commissioner pointed out
applicant has the option of totally removing the tree and putting
the garage in the rear, thus removing the need for the variances
and special permit.
Val Sarabashyan, 825 Linden, advised he was renting the back unit
which is also his business address; he does not cook but would like
to keep access to water to make coffee or tea; he has lived there
for four months; there is a bathroom in this area for his use, the
area he rents is separate from the rest of the home; he is an
engineering consultant and has a home occupation permit. Applicant
stated he would open up the wall, it would become one home, Mr.
Sarabashyan could use the kitchen in the front.
Applicant and CP pointed out on a diagram of the site location of
the family unit and where the tenant lives. Commission's concern
about illegal second units was addressed. Applicant stated the
tenant kitchen is minimal, a counter, small refrigerator, a two
burner cook top. It was determined the hot tub next to the deck
did not receive a permit. One Commissioner discussed the give and
take nature of such a situation, applicant has a hot tub without
permit, an illegal second unit and does not want to change the
location of the garage; Commission wants to act for the good of the
city. There were no further audience comments and the public
hearing was closed.
C. H.Graham moved to deny the variances and special permit with the
statement there are no substantial reasons to support approval,
there is room for a garage to be built on this site in conformance
with all codes of the city; he further requested code enforcement
on the hot tub and second unit. Motion was seconded by C.
Harrison.
Comments on the motion: applicant could build a tandem garage and
provide additional parking in the driveway, this could be done in
such a way that he would not need the special permit for separation
between structures, concur that the second dwelling unit should be
eliminated and kitchen removed; CA advised Commission can deny the
second kitchen but not the wet bar; will vote against the motion, a
tandem garage could be provided and the rest of the problems could
be dealt with; see no good faith on the part of the applicant, a
garage could be put in the back; have one problem, regarding code
enforcement, if application were approved there could be annual
review, if denied how can this be reviewed; CA commented that staff
follows up on these matters. Concerning finding (c), that the
variance would not be detrimental to neighboring properties, think
what has already been done is materially detrimental.
A Commissioner asked if the maker of the motion would be interested
in a denial without prejudice; he was not.
Burlingame Planning Commission Minutes Page 5
October 11, 1988
Further comment: agree that what has been done on this property is
amazing, but think there can be things done to get the garage
within code or with a minimal variance; would have to have some
reason for .granting tandem, there is room in the back for another
garage. Responding to a question, CA advised three persons renting
rooms in a home are allowed as long as there is only one kitchen.
He further advised staff will be enforcing the code for the hot tub
and second unit. CP stated the garage has been almost totally
demolished and applicant will be required to provide covered
parking, if he can't get a variance he will have to do it to code.
Commission continued: would support a tandem garage in the rear 30%
of the lot if it would fit, but could be adding an extra long
driveway and more paving, would rather see some landscaping if
applicant could provide a 10' x 40' garage; have yet to see a
tandem garage fully used for parking; will still support the motion
for denial, even in tandem parking applicant would like to put in a
bench across the back for shop work and have minimal storage, don't
see a tandem garage being a reality ever.
Motion to deny was approved on a 4-3 roll call vote, Cers Ellis,
Giomi and S.Graham dissenting. Appeal procedures were advised.
6. TWO SPECIAL PERMITS TO INCREASE THE HEIGHT OF AN EXISTING
GARAGE AT 134-136 BLOOMFIELD ROAD, ZONED R-1
Reference staff report, 10/11/88, with attachments. CP Monroe
reviewed details of the request, staff review, Planning staff
comment, applicant's letter, study meeting questions. Three
conditions were suggested for consideration at the public hearing.
Discussion: garage is almost as large as one of the units;
applicant's purpose for this request is storage of his boat, he
does not live on the site, conditions state nonresidents cannot
park in this garage; requirement for one hour fire wall.
Chm. Jacobs opened the public hearing. Jonathan Horowitz,
applicant, presented letters from three neighbors and stated he
spoke to others, no one expressed concern about his proposal.
Responding to Commission questions, applicant advised he needs the
additional height for a taller boat, the boat is 8' wide; city has
said only tenants' vehicles can be parked in the garage, he could
move in; he has owned this property since 1980 and added to the
garage in 1980 so he was able to park his boat there, the present
boat is taller, a weekender and taller when on the trailer; all
remodeling has been done to code under permit; he commented that if
Commission insists he live there, he could; 134 Bloomfield is not
rented, his mother lives there; 136 Bloomfield is rented to a
tenant. There were no audience comments and the public hearing was
closed.
Burlingame Planning Commission Minutes Page 6
October 11, 1988
With the statement that over the years Commission has tried to do
the correct thing, it is now faced with a request which should not
be granted, C. Giomi moved to deny the two special permits; motion
was seconded by C. Ellis.
Commission and staff discussed procedure with regard to
reapplication if this request were denied outright or denied
without prejudice. Comment on the motion: there are storage yards
for boats in Burlingame; even if applicant lived in one of the
units would not be willing to grant this request; there is a
problem in the city with boat and RV storage, if a garage could be
remodeled attractively why not provide an off-street covered space
for boat storage for the owner of this property; would have had no
problem with granting this but based on staffs advice that a
nonresident cannot store a vehicle or boat there will have to
support the motion for denial. CP advised the over height garage
and over height plate line are the issues before the Planning
Commission. Applicant stated there are no covered storage places
available in Burlingame; if his mother owned the boat would that
have a similar effect.
Motion to deny was approved on a 4-3 roll call vote, Cers H.
Graham, S. Graham and Harrison dissenting. Appeal procedures were
advised.
Recess 9:02 P.M.; reconvene 9:14 P.M.
7. SPECIAL PERMIT FOR A BEFORE AND AFTER SCHOOL DAY CARE
PROGRAM AT ROOSEVELT SCHOOL, 1151 VANCOUVER AVENUE,
ZONED R-1
Reference staff report, 10/11/88, with attachments. CP Monroe
reviewed details of the request, staff review, Planning staff
comment, applicant's letters, study meeting questions. Four
conditions were suggested for consideration at the public hearing.
Comment: concern about parents dropping off children in the early
morning at the Broadway entrance, would prefer they use the
Vancouver side; CP advised the school district withdrew their
request to use Room 8 at Roosevelt School which is the room
requested for use by this day care program.
Chm. Jacobs opened the public hearing. Pat Bader, applicant, said
their program is to serve the needs of working parents, they are
proposing enrichment programs not found at some other day care
operations, the proposed hours are geared to working parents. A
Commissioner expressed her concern about the neighbors on Broadway
if this entrance were used, there would be noise in the early
morning with cars having to turn around on this dead end street.
Applicant advised that conceivably there could be 30 cars; she
Burlingame Planning Commission Minutes Page 7
October 11, 1988
thought it could be suggested to the parents that they use the
Vancouver side; another Commissioner suggested a directional map
might be given out the first day. Regarding the K-6 range of ages
in one classroom, applicant thought it would be workable, there are
other day care centers which have these ages, children can be
grouped by age; they have an agreement with a busing company to
transport the children to and from their schools; it will probably
take another month to receive their license from the state.
There were no audience comments and the public hearing was closed.
As a working mother of a kindergartner, C. S.Graham commended
applicant on her program and moved for approval of the special
permit and for adoption of Commission Resolution Approving Special
Permit with the following conditions: (1) that a before and after
school day care program, located in the 1,244 SF Room 8 shall be
operated between 7:00 A.M. and 6:00 P.M. weekdays for a maximum of
30 children and a staff of three; (2) that the children shall be
transported from Roosevelt to their respective schools by bus by
9:15 A.M. and transported from their schools to Roosevelt by bus
between 12:00 Noon and 3:30 P.M.; the bus shall not remain parked
on the school site at any time during the school day; (3) that the
program shall serve children from the age of kindergarten through
sixth grade and shall be licensed by the State of California as a
day care facility, compliant with all the Building and Fire Codes
of the City of Burlingame; (4) that the applicant shall encourage
dropoff and pickup of children through the Vancouver Avenue
entrance; and ( 5 ) that this use shall be reviewed in June of 1989
for compliance with the conditions and upon complaint thereafter.
Motion was seconded by C. H.Graham and approved on a 7-0 roll call
vote. Appeal procedures were advised.
8. TENTATIVE AND FINAL PARCEL MAP FOR RESUBDIVISION OF ONE LOT
INTO TWO LOTS AT 1801 CARMELITA AVENUE, ZONED R-1, LOT 1 AND
A PORTION OF LOT 2, BLOCK 32, EASTON ADDITION NO. 2
Reference staff report, 10/11/88, with attachments. CE Erbacher
reviewed details of this request to divide an existing lot on
Carmelita into two lots fronting on Cabrillo, staff review,
Planning Department comments discussing buildable lot area and
declining height envelope, Engineering staff concerns, applicants
letter, Subdivision Code review criteria, study meeting questions.
One condition was suggested for consideration if Planning
Commission recommends this map to City Council for approval.
Chm. Jacobs opened the public hearing. Lois Burrows, 1801
Carmelita Avenue addressed Commission. She stated the boundary of
the creek was slightly misplaced on the map and discussed size of
the proposed lots, lot coverage, no variances will be requested
(there are no building plans at present), plans will be within all
Burlingame Planning Commission Minutes Page 8
October 11, 1988
code requirements, 100 year flood plain, actual creek flow,
compatibility of proposed lots to pattern of existing lots. No
part of a home would be built into the creek, in the flood plain or
cantilevered over the creek, no major trees will be removed.
Charles Kavanagh, civil engineer, also addressed Commission: as an
engineer he thought this proposed subdivision of the property has a
lesser impact on the creek, there would be no projecting
structures, the creek would continue as it is, it has never flooded
the area proposed for development, existing contours will remain,
proposed houses would be built on existing elevation.
The following members of the audience spoke in opposition. David
Ferenc, 1015 Cabrillo Avenue: in 1955 and 1982 high flood water
reached the top of the third terrace, because of this how can a
house be put on Parcel 1-B, opposed to any trees being removed,
there is a redwood on the third terrace, acacias on the second
terrace and two palm trees in the rear; there have been workers in
the creek under the bridge, no outhouse was provided, they were
using creek bed and first terrace, would like this stopped.
(Staff/Commission response: bathroom in the house can be used;
redwood tree is outside 100 year flood plain.)
Nancy Finney, 1020 Drake Avenue: concerned about any construction
above, where will garages be, will the second redwood tree be
removed; the creek makes a hard right, water does come up to the
third terrace.
Jim Yawn, 1815 Carmelita Avenue: concerned about creek lots in the
city, City Council will be considering an ordinance with regard to
creeks and development along creeks, in view of this it seems
appropriate to postpone any recommendation on this application
until after Council action; an article in the San Mateo Times was
circulated discussing the need to reevaluate the creeks, flood
plains, etc. in the City of San Mateo, the need to consider high
tides occurring at the same time as a 100 year storm. Mr. Yawn
asked when was the last time the flood plains/flood flows were
calculated in this city. (Staff response: the last evaluation was
in 1957, data from that study was used by Mr. Kavanagh in his
calculations; regarding tidal action, this elevation is above the
impact of tides, the biggest problem is when debris comes down the
creek. Responding to Commissioner question, CE advised there is no
city cleaning/inspection program, creeks are all in private
ownership; if a problem is seen with retaining walls the city
advises the property owner of the hazardous condition. City is
responsible for clearing under the bridges.) Flood zones and flood
insurance was discussed.
Gene Supanich, 1036 Cabrillo Avenue: his property is shown as three
lots, has been used as one lot for 60 years, the proposed
subdivision will make his lot less compatible with the neighborhood
Burlingame Planning Commission Minutes Page 9
October 11, 1988
because it will become the largest lot; who determines 100 year
flood (staff response: a licensed civil engineer).
Speaking in favor: Sally Peter (lives in the Easton Addition):
applicants have addressed the compatibility issued raised earlier,
they have changed their plans, they will not remove any trees, they
will build above ground level whereas rooms flooded on a neighbor's
property were below ground level, what is objectionable about this
request, ask that Commission make a final decision this evening.
Further audience comment: Russ Jackson, a Burlingame resident: it
is in the best interests of everyone along the creek area to wait
for Council action next Monday evening, have seen what floods can
do to streams and rivers, think the matter should be studied. CE
Kavanagh responded: elevation of the ground where these two houses
would be built is between 1/21 to 1' above the top of curb around
the site, any houses built would be 21 to 3' above the ground,
buildings themselves are not in danger of a flood on these two
sites; in determining 100 year water surface elevation, he used the
flows on the map published in 1954, revised in 1957, it was a
drainage study for the city anticipating future development, he did
not know if future development followed what was anticipated; he
calculated for a 25 year storm and increased those flows by the
standard 20% to approximate the 100 year flows, 100 year flow
determined today could be more or less; the 1982/83 storms were
uncharacteristic and larger than the 100 year flow.
Mrs. Burrows responded: she was pleased there was so little concern
about the issue of compatibility; the creek issue was thoroughly
examined, the previous property owner offered to write a letter
stating water had never reached the third level; regarding debris,
they cleaned up much of the vegetation in the creek on her
property, she apologized for the workmen. Neighbors and others
have been on her property. She reported they have had broken
windows, torn screens and some things stolen.
In a closing statement Mrs. Burrows said they are not building in
the creek, they are not building over the creek, they are not
building in the flood plain nor in a flood zone (it is not a flood
zone insurance area), the redwood trees will stay. Homes are
needed in the Bay Area and they will add two homes. Her request to
develop has been delayed by postponements, she would like to do
something nice for Burlingame and requested Commission be fair and
make a decision. Responding to Commission questions, she said she
did not mean the neighbors when referring to property damage, this
was probably done by younger children; the two redwood trees and
two palms will not be removed, those trees designated on the map
will stay.
There were no further audience comments and the public hearing was
closed.
Burlingame Planning Commission Minutes Page 10
October 11, 1988
During discussion it was determined that in the review criteria of
the subdivision code flood control, type of building or footprint
are not included. Commissioner comment: compatibility is the issue
in making a recommendation to City Council, after reviewing the
material received and looking at the lots am ready to make a
motion. Commission/staff discussed flood plain, possible need for
a new study to reevaluate the city's position on the 100 year flood
plain (Commission is aware that the creek along Occidental Avenue
has changed), location of the proposed houses, 38% buildable area
includes the third terrace. CA advised there is no basis for
delaying this application, it was filed long before any Council
consideration of lots along creeks.
Based on his previous statement that compatibility is the issue
(the subdivision code guides the Commission and sets its
parameters), on material received from the CE and after inspecting
the site and area, C. Harrison moved to recommend to City Council
for approval this tentative and final parcel map with the following
conditions: (1) that all supports or piers for structures shall be
placed clear of the 100 year flows or flood elevations of the
creek, said area to be determined by a civil engineer; and (2) that
the two redwood trees and two palm trees shall remain. Motion was
seconded by C. Giomi.
Comment on the motion: will support motion based on subdivision
code criteria; am uncomfortable not seeing the proposed houses,
primarily on Lot 1-B, would not vote for any variances on either
lot; will abstain, too well acquainted with the neighbors.
Motion was approved on a 6-0-1 roll call vote, C. Jacobs
abstaining. Staff will forward to City Council.
Recess 10:42 P.M., reconvene 10:50 P.M.
9. SPECIAL PERMIT FOR A REAL ESTATE BROKERAGE OFFICE AT 1440
CHAPIN AVENUE, ZONED C-1, SUB AREA B-1
Reference staff report, 10/11/88, with attachments. CP Monroe
reviewed details of the request, staff review, Planning Department
comment, applicant's letters, study meeting questions. Five
conditions were suggested for consideration at the public hearing.
Parking arrangements were discussed.
Chm. Jacobs opened the public hearing. David Harrison, Patson
Development Company addressed Commission: five parking spaces on
the first level in front of the security gate will be reserved and
marked for Grubb & Ellis, those downstairs will not be reserved,
building management has found this practice is more efficient; they
have agreed to give Grubb & Ellis 13 additional spaces if the need
arises and other uses do not use all these spaces, half the spaces
Burlingame Planning Commission Minutes Page 11
October 11, 1988
in the garage are not being used at this time; Grubb & Ellis are a
part of this community, they need to expand, the 1440 Chapin
building is perhaps the only place which could come close to
meeting their needs.
Responding to Commission questions, Mr. Harrison advised their
intention was to give Grubb & Ellis their proportionate share of
parking spaces, if the building did become fully occupied and the
extra 13 spaces were not available there would be a management
problem which they would have to deal with; cardkeys to the secured
parking are computerized so building management knows who is going
in and out; Grubb & Ellis employees wont be there all at once,
neither are the other tenants; parking is assigned by share of
floor area of the building rather than use. Mr. Harrison felt it
was very unlikely they would reach the point of having to enforce
parking, the building is half full now and they are using one-third
of the spaces; they are aware that many people do not like to park
on second levels, the gate was put in for security reasons,
elevators serve all levels.
A Commissioner had a further concern in that most real estate
companies have weekly meetings for all agents, this could involve
60 agents once a week needing parking; Mr. Harrison said building
management attempts to retrieve unused cardkeys, if this cannot be
done the card can be taken out of the computer. The building has
been rented since July 1, 1987, it is 48% occupied at present; the
agreement with Grubb & Ellis will not allow another realty company
in this building.
Jerry Igra, Grubb & Ellis, also addressed Commission: there is no
on-site parking at Grubb & Ellis' present location on Primrose,
their present density is one person per 90 SF, in residential real
estate business is mostly conducted outside the office, they are
projecting a maximum of 60 people at 1440 Chapin, with any further
expansion they would have to open another office San Mateo, at no
time would there be more than 35 people in the office; they do
have Monday morning meetings for everyone, typical attendance is
40-50 people for one hour, some of these would require on -street
parking; with this move there will be a dramatic reduction in on -
street parking, a new firm at their site on Primrose would not have
the density Grubb & Ellis has now; if Grubb & Ellis stays where
they are there will be a negative impact on the city, they will be
using city parking for all their requirements; traffic flow
currently at Primrose and Chapin is excessive, along Chapin there
is less traffic flow, this move will remove traffic from that
corner; although doubling their office space they will add only 10-
15 people in the office, their density will be dramatically
reduced. At the present site independent contractors and employees
total 45, they expect to expand to 60 at this site.
There were no audience comments and the public hearing was closed.
Burlingame Planning Commission Minutes Page 12
October 11, 1988
Commission discussion: agree with Grubb & EllisI representative,
there will be less on -street parking required by their move but
have a concern about inability of taking that use away from
Primrose, another real estate organization could come in and impact
the old space heavily, there have been parking/traffic problems in
that area for the last 10 years; it appears the 13 spaces given to
Grubb & Ellis as a temporary measure must be discounted, when this
building is 100% leased those 13 spaces will not be available and
Grubb & Ellis people will be forced to park on the street plus
those who will need parking during the Monday morning meetings, it
would appear they are asking for a parking variance of 13 spaces.
CP advised this building was designed to current office parking
requirements, Grubb & Ellis is an office use, the issue is to
review intensive office uses; the use by Grubb and Ellis at its
present location on Primrose was grandfathered, Prudential Bache, a
financial use at 1440 Chapin, was there before the code was amended
to require review. A Commissioner expressed concern about the fact
that the real estate use on Primrose could continue, Commission had
concerns about parking impacts and that is why the code was
amended.
C. S . Graham moved to deny the special permit for this use at this
location. Motion was seconded by C. H.Graham.
Comment on the motion: this is a big improvement over the present
Grubb & Ellis location, conditions of approval require review in
one year which will give Commission control, no one knows what the
ultimate parking impact for this building will be, there could be
enough parking; it could be a disaster; what options does
Commission have if compliance is negative (staff stated there is a
revocation procedure); agree that getting Grubb & Ellis away from
their present location will be an improvement, also there are plans
for development of a parking structure behind the Primrose site by
the library.
Further comment: this is an organization which may go to 60 people,
they have one weekly meeting with all those people expected to
attend, if one-half the people are there one-third of the time they
will need 35 spaces one-third of the time, the site they are
leaving could be replaced with a business the same size and it has
no parking, total impact on the area could be increased; if Grubb &
Ellis don't go into this space, another business might need more
parking; don't think there is a use which could go in which would
require more parking.
Motion to deny was approved on a 4-3 roll call vote, Cers Garcia,
Giomi and Harrison dissenting. Appeal procedures were advised.
Burlingame Planning Commission Minutes Page 13
October 11, 1988
10. SIGN EXCEPTION FOR A MASTER SIGNAGE PROGRAM FOR THE BUILDING
AT 1440 CHAPIN AVENUE, ZONED C-1, SUB AREA B-1
Reference staff report, 10/11/88, with attachments. CP Monroe
reviewed details of the request, staff review, Planning staff
comment, applicant's letter, study meeting questions. Three
conditions were suggested for consideration at the public hearing.
Responding to a question, staff advised should a tenant not like
what was available under the master signage program he would have
to come back to the Planning Commission for an amendment;
enforcement of the program is through the landlord rather than
through the city. Staff and Commission discussed the specific
proposal.
Chm. Jacobs opened the public hearing. David Harrison, Patson
Development Company presented a colored drawing of the proposed
sign program. Responding to Commission question, he advised they
anticipated their request would be all the signage they would need
for the building when it was fully occupied, they are attempting to
keep signage subdued.
There were no audience comments and the public hearing was closed.
Findings were made that this is a wide street with walk-in traffic,
the building is fairly large, there will be several businesses with
a need for identification. C. H.Graham moved for approval of the
sign exception with the following conditions: (1) that the signage
shall be installed as shown on the plans submitted to the Planning
Department and date stamped September 12, 1988 and as described in
the sign permit application dated August 23, 1988; (2) that the
property owner and his authorized representatives shall be
responsible for informing the tenants of the permitted signage
under the master signage program and ensuring that the master
signage program is adhered to; and (3) that any changes to the
signage, including any addition of signage shall require amendment
of the master signage program.
Motion was seconded by C. Garcia and approved 7-0 on roll call
vote. Appeal procedures were advised.
PLANNER REPORTS
- Review of Special Permit - 409 Howard Avenue
- Discussion of regulations for car rental businesses - continued
to the meeting of October 24, 1988.
- CP Monroe reviewed Council actions at its October 3, 1988 regular
meeting.
Burlingame Planning Commission Minutes Page 14
October 11, 1988
ADJOURNMENT
The meeting was adjourned at 11:55 P.M.
Respectfully submitted,
Mike Ellis, Secretary