HomeMy WebLinkAbout09/18/1990, 7 - TRACT 1750: A SUBDIVISION TO CREATE 245 SINGLE-FAMILY LOTS, 88 MEDIUM-DENSITY AIRSPACE CONDOMINIUMS MEETING DATE:
city of San Luis OBlspo 9- ►a-90
COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT �"'NUMBER:
FROM: Arnold JonaszCommunity Development Dir ctor
PREPARED BY: Judith utner, Associate Plannez'
SUBJECT: a.) Tract 1750: A subdivision to create 245 single-family
lots, 88 medium-density airspace condominiums, a
neighborhood park and a small "historical" park, in six
phases;
b. ) PD 1449-B: . A planned development rezoning to allow
exceptions to lot sizes and density.
The proposals affect property on the east side of the railroad
tracks in the Edna-Islay Specific Plan area.
CAO RECOMMENDATION:
1. Review the Environmental Impact Report addendum prepared in response
to council direction and adopt it through inclusion of language in
the resolution for Tract 1750; and
2. Introduce an ordinance to print, amending the zoning map for the
property from R-1-SP, R-2-SP, and C/OS-40-SP to R-l-SP-PD, R-2-SP-
PD, and C/OS-40-SP-PD; and
3. Adopt a resolution approving the tentative map for Tract 1750, with
findings and conditions.
Report-in-brief
The council reviewed this project on two occasions, and continued it with
no discussion at the third, at the applicants' request. i
At the last meeting, the council received a letter from the Citizens'
Planning Alliance, which contended that many issues had not been resolved
with respect to this subdivision. The letter addressed several issues
which have been discussed in staff reports, at .public hearings, and in
the addendum. The present staff report repeats much of that discussion,
addressing specific points. raised in the letter.
After reviewing the letter and staff response, the council should review
the previous staff report's discussion on issues to be resolved, and take
an action on the project.
DISCUSSION
Background
Situation/previous review
The applicants want to develop the remainder of their property on the
"Islay Hill" side of the Edna-Islay Specific Plan area. They are asking
for approval of a master vesting tentative subdivision map and a planned'
development rezoning. Final maps would be submitted for each of six
phases, consistent with the approved tentative map. 74
A���lli city of San US OBISpo
COUNCIL. AGENDA REPORT
Tract 1750
PD 1449-B
1107 Tank Farm Road
Page 2
The Planning Commission reviewed this request in a study session on
January 3, 1990, and held public hearings on February 28 and March 28,
1990. On March 28, the commission voted 3-2 to recommend approval of the
tentative map to the council. The Architectural Review Commission
reviewed plans for the condominium and apartment sites on April 16, and
May 14, 1990, and granted schematic approval to those designs.
The Parks and Recreation Commission reviewed the Rodriguez Park site in
June, 1989, and the trail proposal for Islay Hill on March 7, 1990, and
recommended that no trails be installed as part of this development. The
Cultural Heritage Committee (CHC) visited the adobe site and discussed
the use of the adobe. That committee reviewed the proposed adobe park
site on April 23, 1990, and recommended approval with a stipulation that
houses surrounding the adobe site be reviewed by the CHC to assure
compatibility with the adobe and maintenance of views. The City Council
heard this item on June 6, and on July 3, 1990, and directed staff to
prepare an addendum to the previously certified EIR to address the
additional protection of certain animal species on site and the minor
changes to the specific plan that had been approved by the director.
The City Council continued the subdivision again on August 21, at the
applicants' request.
Data summary
Address: 1107 Tank Farm Road
Applicant/property owner: Pacifica Corporation (Stuart Greene, project
director)
Zoning: R-1-SP, R-2-SP, and C/OS-40-SP
General plan: Low-density residential and Conservation/open space
Environmental status: EIR certified for the Edna-Islay Specific Plan in
1982; addendum under review concurrently with map
Project action deadline: October 7, 1990 (90-day time extension
granted by applicant)
Site description
The site is a large (139 acres) , irregular-shaped parcel of varying
topography. A creek cuts across the property from north to south,
starting near the intersection of Orcutt Road with Tank Farm Road. A
portion of Islay Hill takes up about a third of the area. An adobe
dating from the 1850's is the only building on the site.
The site surrounds (on three sides) the first development on this sid
of the tracks, Tract 1376 ("The Arbors") . The 131 homes in Tract 137 .
are complete. n
l"Vt
2111 city of San LUIS OBISpo
COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT
Tract 1750
PD 1449-B
1107 Tank Farm Road
Page 3
Project description
The applicants propose a subdivision and planned development to create:
1. ) 134 single-family lots ranging from 4,100 to 8,600 square feet,
averaging 5,500 square feet in area;
2. ) 88 air-space condominiums on 6.6 acres, including a program to
provide 23 units to low- and moderate-income families (administered
by the Housing Authority) ;
3. ) A 1.8-acre site to be made available for sale to the Housing
Authority, adequate in size for twenty apartments (as required by
the specific plan) ;
4. ) 111 large "custom" lots, averaging 9,.900 square feet;
5.) An easement, to. be dedicated to the city, over 75 acres of open
space (Islay Hill) , with a contribution for trail construction;
6. ) A combined city and linear park, totalling over 13 acres, to be
dedicated to the city;
7. ) A one-acre "mini-park" to be dedicated to the city, containing the
rehabilitated Rodriguez adobe (restoration partially funded by
developer) ;
8. ) A 400,000-gallon water tank to serve a portion of the development
(water from the Edna Saddle and Terrace Hill reservoirs, along with
the new water tank, will adequately serve the entire Edna Islay
area) .
EVALUATION
1. EIR Addendum. Per council direction, staff prepared an addendum to
the EIR to address the following issues: creek habitat changes,
street alignment changes, detention basin design, replacement of
private recreation area with public park, design of medium-density
areas, and the railroad buffer design. Copies of the addendum were
included in the council's packet for the August 21 .meeting.
Additional copies are available from the Community Development
Department on request.
2. Response to citizen letter. A letter from the "Citizens' Planning
Alliance" (CPA) was delivered to the council shortly before the
August 21 meeting. This letter asks the council to not approve the
subdivision until "serious procedural errors" are corrected. The
CPA raises several issues, all of which have been raised and
LAIM1181i1 city of San 1UIS OBISPO -
MWMW COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT
Tract 1750 -
PD 1449-B
1107 Tank Farm Road.
Page 4
discussed at prior hearings, either at the City Council or the
Planning Commission level.
The following is a summary of the resolution of each of the issues
raised in the letter:
Approval of minor amendments. The CPA states that "major" changes
were approved as "minor", and that there is no documentation of the
actions taken.
The determination of what is minor and what is major is left to the
Community Development Director, with guidance from the specific
plan. The former director made the determination that all of the
changes were minor. while no separate document was issued, the
changes were documented and the determinations explained in staff
reports overseen by that director. The specific plan does not
specify the method of documenting minor specific plan changes, and
in fact other minor changes have been approved in a similar manner
starting with the first phase of development (on the Edna side) .
Many chancres remain unacknowledged or partially-acknowledged. Every
issue in the CAP letter has been discussed in staff reports or at
public hearings. Staff is unaware of any changes that have not been
reviewed. The CAP concern appears to be that some issues were not
considered significant enough to be considered in discussion of
specific plan changes. These issues will be evaluated as part of
each discussion item below:
Intrusion of bicycle path into creek preservation area. One bicycle
path enters a creek preservation area. The CAP letter incorrectly
states that two paths enter this area. A review of the tract map
will show that the second path is within a creek improvement area.
The CAP letter further says that the change is major because it
would significantly increase environmental impacts. Review of the
proposed path by the Department of Fish and Game and the former
director found that it would not increase environmental impacts, if
properly placed and buffered. There is no evidence in the CAP
letter to the contrary. This issue is discussed in the addendum.
The CAP says "this change would not even have been proposed had the
city seen to it that the previous adjacent tract was built with the
bike/pedestrian path located where both the Planning Commission and
City Council conditioned its location - along the westerly side of
the creeks, outside the creek preservation area, as shown on the
Edna-Islay Specific Plan map."
Staff reports and the addendum have noted that the design of the
path in this area was a result of minor changes to the street layout
1010(1fP°�111I city of San LUIS OBISPO -
ORNMe COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT
Tract 1750
PD 1449-B
1107 Tank Farm Road
Page 5
of Tract 1376, as well as the need to cross the creek with a sewer
line, which resulted in a creek crossing farther south than
originally designed. There was no intent to alter the specific plan
design. Further, the conditions of the map do include the option
of not installing the portion of the path that enters the creek
preservation area, if the turtle monitoring program indicates its
installation would be detrimental to the turtles.
Railroad buffers. The CPA contends that the railroad buffers are
intended for noise, dust mitigation, landscape value, wildlife
habitat, open space, and separation of incompatible uses, and that
the proposed buffers provide noise mitigation only.
The addendum addresses this issue, although it is not technically
a specific plan change. For further explanation, the following is
offered:
The specific plan says (page 23) : "Railroad buffers - A 50 to 100
foot minimum open space buffer of dense vegetation is required along
the railroad right-of-way to help reduce noise and provide landscape
screening." (Italics added.) Page 31 of the specific plan, which
outlines the standards for the noise buffers, describes five
"concepts", one of which is visual screening only, where noise
mitigation is not needed. The depth of the buffer in these areas
is not specified, but is shown as approximately the width of a
single line of trees on the map.
The proposed buffers are not as wide as the specific plan buffers
in all cases, but they all include dense landscaping. The noise
study completed for the project concludes that the buffers provide
adequate noise mitigation. The specific plan says (page 31) that
"other combinations of barriers may also be built as long as they
are equal to or better than those described above and are visually
acceptable to the city." Therefore, the railroad buffer design is
not a specific plan change, either major or minor. It is an
alternative which is allowed by the specific plan as written. The
decision of whether the buffer is adequate and visually acceptable
is left to the council.
Housing and roads higher on Islay Hill: houses provide edge of
develor)ment. The CAP notes that housing is shown higher up the hill
than on the specific plan map. This issue is discussed in the
addendum. In sum, the total open space provided on the hillside is
greater than shown on the specific plan map, and housing on the the
more sensitive hillside area (the southwestern portion of the map)
is farther down the slope.
►111Q011111 city of san tins oai spo
WM COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT
Tract 1750
PD 1449-B
1107 Tank Farm Road
Page 6
Public access has been provided on the tract map from every street
closest to the hillside. The CAP argues that "psychological access"
has been eliminated. The Planning Commission, in its recommendation
of approval of the map, preferred the design as shown on the tract
map. Improved visual access from the street would result from that
street framing the edge of development. If the council agrees that
the road should be the edge of development in this area, it should
specifically include this requirement as a condition of the
approval.
Residential densities. The CAP says that density is exceeded in
some areas. The specific plan places an overall density limit on
all development, and provides for density bonuses. Page 17 of the
specific plan says, "The City Council may approve a density bonus
of up to 25% more housing units per acre. This provision may apply
to all low and medium density housing areas except the lower slopes _
of Islay hill south of the seasonal waterway." The CAP says the
density increase request is a major change. The increase request
is not a change, major or minor. The request is allowed, with r
planned development application (included as part of the request) .
Detention basin sizing. The CAP says that the detention basin is
smaller than required, and that the specific plan called for
multiple use of detention basins, which are not provided. This
issue is discussed in the addendum, except for the multiple-use
concept. The basins were analysed by the hydraulic engineer who
originally reviewed the design and found to be consistent with
specific plan standards. Further, the specific plan does = say
that detention basins are to be used recreationally as well as for
storm water. However, the present design of the basin does not
prohibit multiple use. The specific plan did not call out exactly
where detention basins were to be located, but only showed areas
that needed to drain to detention basins.
Detention basins in the Edna area have also been sized smaller than
the specific plan called for, after being approved by the same
engineer. There is no specific plan change involved.
Piaster subdivision map. The CAP says that the specific plan allows
for processing of only two phases at a time. The specific plan -
actually says "creation of residential subdivision or development"
is not permitted until at least 50% of the improvements and units
required in the previous phase are complete. Some of the previous
subdivisions (on both sides of the tracks) were approved when '
"creation of subdivision!' was interpreted as filing of a tentativ
map. That interpretation was changed with Tract 1360, the master
tentative map approved on the Edna side, since lots are not actually
created until a final map is approved. 7-4
1111111111IIIIm4111l city of san Luis o8ispo
MMbMe COUNCIL AGENOA REPORT
Tract 1750
PD 1449-B
1107 Tank Farm Road
Page 7
Optional equestrian center. private recreation area. The optional
equestrian center has been replaced by residences. The specific
plan allows for this change. Optional means optional, not required.
The CAP asserts that this design forces an equestrian center on the
hill. An equestrian center on Islay Hill may be built only if the
Planning Commission approves a use permit. The CAP fails to note
that the private recreation area has been replaced by a public park,
which also provides recreational opportunities.
Change in medium-density layout. The CAP notes that the medium-
density areas have changed in location and type. The CAP is
concerned about the housing mix, affordability, and increased
grading resulting from the small lot subdivision as opposed to a
standard apartment or condominium type development.
This issue has been discussed in previous reports and at hearings.
The overall land use has not changed. It is still residential. The
density is slightly greater than R-1, and therefore is considered
medium-density. The mix of housing types in the Islay area includes
a mix of low-density homes on 7,000-square foot average lots, two-
bedroom condominiums, including 23 affordable units, a mix of
smaller homes on 5,000-square-foot average lots, and custom homes
on larger hillside lots. The mix of housing types on the other side
(Edna) of the tracks includes a mix of low-density homes on average
6, 000-square-foot lots, and a mix of condominiums. Both sides
include Housing Authority apartments, as required by the specific
plan.
Affordability is an issue that is city-wide. This is the first
subdivision to include units for sale to low- and moderate-income.
buyers. The specific plan encourages a mix of housing types. The
concept of having some medium-density homes on individual lots is
consistent with this direction. The rental market in this city also
includes rental of single-family homes. Throughout the city, these
homes are rented as frequently as apartments, and in fact are
preferred by families and many students.
It is true that a large apartment complex on a single lot can be
designed to limit grading of sensitive areas. The development of
single-family lots will involve grading of the entire site, although
the site design generally follows existing contours. The site
included in the small-lot subdivisions contains no significant
vegetation or waterways, and is therefore not considered sensitive
from a grading standpoint. It is unlikely that an apartment
subdivision would have involved a significantly smaller amount of
grading.
olqq?Am jlll city of San tins OBISPO
MIGO COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT
Tract 1750
PD 1449-B
1107 Tank Farm Road
Page 8
Environmental„process. The CAP says that the environmental review
process has been inadequate and "flaunts the law". The CAP letter
repeatedly refers to "endangered species" found on the site. There
are no endangered species on the site. Two of the species discussed
in the letter (the turtle and the frog) are candidates for listing,
the third (the snake) is not listed anywhere that staff or
environmental consultants could find. Nowhere in state or federal
law is additional protection required for candidate species.
Nevertheless, in the interest of protecting these species and others
on site, the riparian area has been expanded considerably from the
specific plan design. Nowhere is it smaller than required, and in
most locations it is much larger.
The CAP letter notes that the turtle is only referred to in one
sentence in the original EIR and the other species are not discussed
at all. A review of the appendix indicates that all three were
expected to be found at the site, and the EIR notes that they are
species that can co-exist with humans. The EIR recommends planting
of native vegetation to improve the habitat value.
The CAP says that the addendum does not discuss the "real issue" of
the bicycle/pedestrian path entering a creek preservation area. The
addendum does just that, and concludes that no significant impacts
will occur from this change, provided adequate buffering is also
provided. The CAP wonders how the path and sewer line beneath it
can be built without destroying the pond and its inhabitants. EIR's
are intended to limit impacts to a level of insignificance, not to
protect every individual animal found at the site. With the
protective buffering and requirement for a monitoring program, the
turtles and frogs are expected to survive installation of a path and
prefabricated bridge with no significant effects.
Addendum versus Supplement. A supplement would likely have resulted
in no new information about the turtles or frogs beyond that
included in the addendum. The supplement's information could have
come from a field survey, research of the literature, and contacts
with experts, just as with the addendum. In other words, we would
not be likely to know where nesting sites are located after
preparation of a supplement, any more than we do now.
Recommendations would be based on existing knowledge of turtle and
frog habits.
Public hearings. The CAP letter notes that "no public hearings were-
held" on various issues. If a specific plan amendment applicatic
had been filed for changes to the specific plan, that application
would have been processed concurrently with the subdivision map.
No additional hearings would be held. The director's determination
city of san iais oBispo
IONGe COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT
Tract 1750
PD 1449-B
1107 Tank Farm Road
Page 9
that the various changes were minor did not preclude discussion of
the issues or prevent denial of any of the changes.
3. Other issues. In the August 21 staff report, some areas of
disagreement between staff and the subdividers were listed. Staff
suggests the council review the previous report for information on
those issues, which included Planning Commission review of final
maps, money for trails on Islay Hill and for future fees, and
sideyard exceptions. One other issue, discussed above, is the
creation of lots above the easterly street on Islay Hill.
RECOMMENDATION
1. Review and adopt the Environmental Impact Report addendum prepared
in response to council direction; and
2. Introduce an ordinance to print, amending the zoning map for the
property from R-1-SP, R-2-SP, and C/OS-40-SP to R-1-SP-PD, R-2-SP-
PD, and C/OS-40-SP-PD; and
3. Adopt a resolution approving the tentative map for Tract 1750, with
findings and conditions.
Attached: Draft resolutions and ordinance
Citizenls Planning Alliance Letter dated 8/24/20
9/4/90 response from John Wallace & Associates
August 21 agenda report
Letters from Roger Picquet
Minutes
EIR Addendum
CHC, ARC and City Council Minutes
-9
® RESOLUTION NO. (1990 Series)
A RESOLUTION OF THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SAN LUIS OBISPO
APPROVING THE TENTATIVE MAP FOR TRACT 1750, CREATING
245 SINGLE-FAMILY LOTS, 88 CONDOMINIUMS, TWO PUBLIC PARKS,
AND A LOT TO BE SOLD TO THE HOUSING AUTHORITY,
ON TANK FARM ROAD, ON THE EAST SIDE OF THE RAILROAD TRACKS
(TRACT 1750)
BE IT RESOLVED by the Council of the City of San Luis
Obispo as follows:
SECTION. 1. Findings. That this council, after
consideration of public testimony, the subdivision request Tract
1750, the Planning Commission's recommendation, the Architectural
Review Commission's action, the Cultural Heritage Committee's
recommendation, the Parks and Recreation Commission's
recommendations, and staff recommendations and reports thereon,
® makes the following findings:
1. The design of the tentative map and the proposed
improvements are consistent with the general plan and
specific plan for the Edna-Islay area.
2. The site is physically suited for the type and density of
development allowed in an R-1-PD-SP and an R-2-PD-SP zone.
3. The design of the subdivisionand the proposed improvements
are not likely to cause serious health problems,
substantial environmental damage or substantially and
unavoidably injure fish or wildlife or their habitat.
4. The design of the subdivision or the type of improvements
will not conflict with easements for access through (or use
of the property within) the proposed subdivision.
5. The Community Development Director has determined that the
proposed subdivision is substantially_ in compliance with
the Edna=Islay Specific Plan.
6. The City Council certified an environmental impact report
for the Edna-Islay Specific Plan in 1982 and has considered
® that EIR and the addendum prepared to incorporate minor
modifications between. Tract 1750 and the .specific plan, and
finds that those two documents in combination are
7-10
_ J
Resolution no. (1990 Series)
Tract 1750
Page 2
sufficient to assess any environmental impacts which would
result from project approval, and that the record as a
whole contains substantial evidence to support
determination that the minor modifications to the project
approved by the Community Development Department are not
so substantial as to require major modifications to the EIR
and that the preparation of an addendum is sufficient.
7. This subdivision map approval requires the subdivider to
expend in excess of the amount specified in Government Code
section 66452.b(a) for public improvements outside the
property.
8. The increase in population near Islay Hill created by the
development of Tract 1750, and the granting of an easement
over the open space portions of Islay Hill within the
boundaries of Tract 1750, allowing public use of the
hillside, will lead to greater recreational use of the
hillside.
This increased use may need to be supported by physical
improvements on the hillside in the form of trails,
fencing, signing, or other improvements to increase public
enjoyment of the recreational use. It is reasonable for
the developer of Tract 1750, therefore, to pay to the city
the cost of installing trails on the hillside, to be used
for the purpose of providing physical improvements as
described above.
9. The proposed use of sound walls perform equally or better
than the concept shown in the specificplan, and the walls
are visually acceptable.
10. The various approval and reporting requirements established
by either existing city processes or specific conditions
of approval satisfy any applicable mitigation monitoring
program requirements and reduce the project's environmental
impacts to an acceptable level.
SECTION 2. The tentative map for Tract 1750 is approved
subject to the following conditions:
1. Multiple final maps must be filed, in accordance with the
phases shown on the approved tentative map. Development-
of the project is subject to existing city growth
management regulations, not to exceed 94 building permits
per year or one phase per year (phases 1 and 2 shall be
considered one phase) , whichever is more restrictive. Time
extensions for final map approval may be granted by the
city, up to the limits imposed by the Subdivision Map Act.
I
® Resolution no. (1990 Series)
Tract 1750
Page 3
2. Development of the subdivision must be in accordance with
the Edna-Islay Specific Plan, except as specifically shown
on the tentative maps approved by the council on (date) or
as conditioned herein.
Fire Department requirements:
3. Fire protection facilities required by the fire department
are to be installed by the developer. Such facilities,
including all access roads, shall be installed and made
serviceable prior to and during the time of building
construction.
4. Hydrants are to be spaced at 5001 maximum intervals.
5. The subdivider shall pay $60,000 to the city for a fast
response vehicle with off-road capability, to serve this
area. Payment_ of $60,000, adjusted for inflation between
tentative map approval and time of payment, shall be made
prior to approval of the final map for phase 6.
0 6. All structures will require an approved, automatic fire-
sprinkler system, to the satisfaction of the Fire
Department. Minimum water services shall be one-inch
diameter.
7. The developer shall fund $10,000 for their share of . the
cost of a device that lets Fire Station 3 know when
railroad tracks are blocked by a train .at Orcutt Road, or
,for three Opticom intersection controllers for responding
fire apparatus.
B. A 201-wide paved access road shall be provided through lots
183, 184, and 185 to provide access to the open space area,
to the satisfaction of the Fire Department and City
Engineer.
9. Emergency access to the Islay Hill open space shall be
provided to the approval of the Fire Department..
Creek and detention basin requirements:
10. A minimum setback of 201 from the creek top of bank is
required for rear property lines or any improvements,
except for setbacks in a 320'-wide section shown on the
Creek Treatment Concepts Plan, approved as part of the
® tentative map, which shall be a minimum of 101 . No part
of the ten-foot buffer area is within the creek protection
area.
Resolution no. (1990 Series) O
Tract 1750
Page 4
li. A creek protection and restoration plan must be submitted
with phase one improvement plans to the approval of the
City Engineer and Community Development Director, along
with improvement plans, consistent with the approved Creek
Concepts Plan. Such plan must show improvements to the
creek area included in the creek maintenance easement or
extending from the rear lot lines to the lot lines across
the creek, whichever is greater. Plans shall show all
landscaping and erosion protection methods. The protection
and improvement plan shall include a schedule for
implementation.
The top-of-bank buffer improvements adjacent to the turtle
habitat shall be installed as soon as possible to provide
immediate protection for the existing turtle population.
12. The creek crossing methods proposed for the
bicycle/pedestrian paths and .for Orcutt Road must be within
the guidelines established in the Flood Management Policy
adopted by the city, unless an alternative is specifically
approved by the council.
i
13. Fish and Game and Corps of Engineers permits shall be
obtained if required, for work within the creek and for
crossing the creek near the intersection of A Street and
Orcutt Road.
14. A team shall be established to select a consultant and
monitor a turtle habitat study. The team shall be made up
of representatives of the Department of Fish and Game, the
San Luis Obispo Urban Creeks Council, the Community
Development Department, and •the project applicant.
The team shall "assist the city in, selecting a qualified
consultant to conduct a turtle habitat study. The turtle
study should focus on the following goals:
a. Identify the essential habitat for the turtles (and
by extension, the frogs) .
b. Determine the size of the turtle population on -
site, age and sex characteristics, and attempt to. .
identify nesting areas.
C. Identify specific essential habitat preservation
areas, if any, within the area designated as lots.
184 through 206 on the tentative map, which should
be incorporated into the final project design.
Resolution no. (1990 Series)
Tract 1750
Page 5
d. Recommend any additional. habitat protection
techniques to be incorporated into the final
project design.
Funding, not to exceed $10,000, shall be provided by the
applicant. The study period will continue for a maximum
of 24 months, with a 27-month time limitation for both the
study and determination of implementation measures to be
required of the developer. The study period is to begin
when the consultant is hired and begins work. Where a
consensus or majority decision cannot be reached within the
study team, the Community Development Director shall make
the decision.
No work, except for temporary improvements that limit human
access to the riparian habitat, shall be conducted within
the study area, as defined on the Creek Concepts Plan
approved as part of this subdivision, prior to completion
of the turtle study. The need for additional environmental
review prior to approval of the final maps for phases 5 and
6 is to be determined by the Community Development
0 Director, and is subject to normal appeal procedures. All
necessary studies, enhancement measures, and site changes
shall be identified prior to the recordation of final maps
for phases 5 and 6.
The site design of lots 184 through 206 and the adjacent.
streets will be adjusted in conformance with the
recommendations of the turtle study and to the satisfaction
of the Community Development Director and the California
Department of Fish and 'Game.
15. The design of the bicycle path within the creek
preservation area at the southerly end of the public park
must be in accordance with Fish and Game recommendations,
as shown on the Creek Treatment Concepts plan, approved as
part of this map, to minimize disturbance of the creek
preservation area.
16. The creek banks adjacent to Tract 1376 shall be revegetated
in accordance with the Creek Treatment Concepts Plan
approved as part of the tentative map. Work shall be
completed prior to acceptance by the city of maintenance
of the area, to the satisfaction of the Public Works
Department.
17. The detention basin must be designed per standards
established by the Edna-Islay Specific Plan and to the
satisfaction of the City Engineer. ` The basin shall be
installed with the third phase of development shown on the
Resolution no. (1990 Series) O
Tract 1750
Page 6
tentative map.
The detention basin may be fenced, at the developer's
option, and must be owned and maintained by the tract
homeowners' association. A maintenance schedule and
reporting procedure shall be submitted to the City Engineer
for review and approval. The schedule shall include
periodic reports to the city on the condition of the basin.
18. Creek preservation and improvement areas shall be dedicated
to the city in fee.
Public Works requirements:
19. Orcutt Road shall be widened and improved along the entire
frontage as part of phase 4. Orcutt Road shall meet City
and county design standards with respect to super
elevation, vertical, and horizontal stopping sight distance
(55 mph design speed) , and shall include a bicycle path
within the roadway on the westerly side. Sight distance
at the proposed Orcutt Road/A Street intersection must be
evaluated as to adequacy. Existing road may require
regrading.
20. Modifications to sewage lift-stations and related
improvements may be required in accordance with the
specific plan. The developer may be required to contribute
towards these improvements in lieu of actual construction,
to the satisfaction of the Utilities Director.
21. The water tank proposed in the easterly portion of the open
space area, to supplement domestic water service, must be
installed and operating prior to the issuance of building
permits for phase 3.
22. Water acreage fees and sewer lift station charges are
required to be paid prior to recordation of the Final Map.
23. All lots must be served by individual water, sewer, and
utilities.
24. The construction of public streets shall comply with the
city's Engineering Standard Details/Specifications, the
Pavement Management Plan, and to the satisfaction of the
City Engineer. Street structural sections shall provide
for the ultimate design-life upon acceptance of the street
by the city. Phased construction of housing will require
the phasing of street construction or an increase in the
street structural section to compensate for the reduction
in the life of the street, prior to acceptance, from
7-l�
® Resolution no. (1990 Series)
Tract 1750
Page 7
construction traffic.
25. The developer must dedicate vehicular access rights to the
- city, along all lots adjacent to Tank Farm Road and Orcutt
Road, to the satisfaction of the City Engineer.
26. Phasing of this tract and utilities may require off-site
utility extensions within subsequent phases, to the
satisfaction of the City Engineer and Utilities Engineer.
. 27. At the time of development of phase 5, an emergency and
construction access road must be provided that continues
A Street to Orcutt Road, to the approval of the City
Engineer and Fire Department.
28. All grading and development improvements shall be done as
approved by the City Engineer and in accordance with the
recommendations per the soils report prepared by Pacific
Geoscience, Inc. , dated July 5, 1989 and the Geotechnical
Update and Plan Review by Gorian and Associates dated July
14, 1987 for Tract .1750, and any subsequent soils reports .
® requested by the City Engineer.
The grading plan for phases 5 and 6 must be approved by a
registered soils engineer and the City Engineer. The
grading shall be inspected and certified by the soils
engineer prior to installation of any subdivision
improvements or issuance of building permits..
The northwesterly limit of the landslide denoted as Qls 1
shall be determined precisely in the field prior to final
map approval of the respective phase. The nearest lot line
shall be at least 50 feet from that boundary and the
adjacent lots shall be adjusted or deleted and Courts "H"
and "G" adjusted accordingly, except that property lines
may not extend beyond that shown on the tentative map.
29. Thegrading plans for phases 5 and 6 shall include such
facilities and preparation so that individual lots will
not require offsite construction.
30. Individual lots on phases 5 and 6 shall have the foundation
design approved by a registered soils engineer. A notice
shall be recorded concurrently with the final map notifying
any purchaser of these lots of this requirement.
31. Additional soil investigations shall be done to ascertain
® that the proposed water tank site and lots and streets
above and below Street "A" (phases 5 and 6) are stable and
suitable for development, to the satisfaction of the City
o -
Resolution no. (1990 Series)
Tract 1750
Page 8
Engineer, prior to final map approval. If evidence is
found that indicates any instability, mitigation measures
must be taken to remedy the instability, to the .
satisfaction of the City Engineer, or the respective final
map shall be modified accordingly, as determined necessary
by the City Engineer and Community Development Director.
If these sites are required to be excavated and filled and
recompacted, the fill and recompaction should closely match
the original terrain, as , determined by the Community
Development Director and Engineering Division staff.
32. Any existing mines encountered shall be abandoned in
accordance with State of California and local regulations,
to the satisfaction of the City Engineer.
33. Any slope instability observed during grading operations
and subdivision construction shall be evaluated by a soils
engineer and repaired to the satisfaction of the City
Engineer and Community Development Director prior to final
acceptance of the respective phases. The final maps or
separate recorded instruments shall note that (T)the city
reserves the right to withhold building permits on any lot
which appears to be threatened by slope instability.
34. The subdivider shall submit a report by a registered civil
engineer certifying that all building sites are not subject
to flooding during a "100-year" storm, to the satisfaction
of the City Engineer.
Parks and open space:
35. The neighborhood park may be completed in one phase by the
developer. The subdivider shall record a lien or
alternative approved by the Community Development Director,
equal to $750 per unit for park improvements, to.become due
and payable to a special fund, maintained by the city, upon
transfer of the lots or dwelling units. If the developer
chooses to develop the park in its entirety, without city
funding assistance, to the satisfaction of the Community
Development, Public Works, and Recreation Departments, the
city shall refund the amounts accumulated in the park
improvement fund to the developer after completion of each ._._
phase as described on the approved park phasing plan
(approved as part of Tract 1376) , on a quarterly basis,
until all fees have been collected.
36. The hardscape areas in the neighborhood park shall be
installed in the first phase of Tract 1750. The remainder
of the park shall be completed in phases, as described in
i .
O Resolution no. (1990 Series)
Tract 1750
Page 9
the approved park phasing plan, or all in one phase as
described in the preceding condition.
37.. The developer is responsible for securing access and
improvement rights, including maintenance by the city, for
the bicycle path under the railroad.
38. The Islay Hill open space shall be dedicated to the city
as part of the final map for phase 6 or earlier. Prior
' to approval of the final map for phase 1, the developer
shall pay to the city an amount adequate to install the
proposed trail system, the amount to be determined by
estimates for the work and as approved by the Parks and
Recreation Director. This money is to be used solely for
physical improvements: the trail construction,
maintenance, or improvement of the Islay Hill open space,
as needed. The Parks and Recreation Commission will
periodically review how the hillside is being used, and
make recommendations to the council on the disposition of
the money.
39. Public pedestrian access to the Islay Hill open space shall
O be provided directly from all streets adjacent to the open
space area, to the satisfaction of the City Engineer and
Community Development Director.
40. The open space beneath the existing power transmission
lines shall be a minimum of 100' wide. No structures shall
be allowed within this 100' area. A note shall be recorded
for each of the lots adjacent to this open space area,
informing lot owners of the proximity of the power lines.
41. The Rodriguez Adobe park shall be dedicated to the city for
public park purposes, in or prior to phase 4. The
Rodriguez Adobe will be restored by the city. The
developer shall contribute to its restoration by paying
one-half the restoration cost, up to a maximum of $100,000,
upon demand by the city.
Water:
42. The subdivider shall inform future lot buyers of the
possibility of building permit delay based on the city's
water shortage. Such notification shall be made a part of
the recorded documentation for each lot.
Archeology:
43. Grading plans must note that if grading or other operations
unearth archeological resources, construction activities
shall cease. The Community Development Director shall be
Resolution no. (1990 Series)
Tract 1750
Page 10
notified of the extent and location of discovered materials
so that they may be recorded by a qualified archeologist,
the cost of which shall be paid by the developer.
Disposition of artifacts shall comply with state and
federal laws.
. Homeowners' Association:
44. The subdivider shall establish covenants, conditions, and
'restrictions for the regulation of land use, control of
nuisances and architectural control of all buildings and
facilities. These CC&R's shall be approved by the
Community Development Director and administered by the
homeowners' association.
The subdivider shall include the following provisions in
the CC&R's for the tract:
a. Maintenance of linear park, railroad buffer areas,
and all storm water detention basins shall be by
the homeowners' association in conformance with the
Edna-Islay Specific Plan.
b. There shall be no change . in city-regulated
provisions of the CC&RIs without prior approval of
the Community Development Director.
Affordable housing:
45. Resale controls applying to the 23 affordable housing units
shall be administered by the Housing Authority and shall
remain in perpetuity. All affordable units shall be
required to be owner-occupied.
46. Development of homes on the small lots (phases 3 and 4)
shall be limited to approximately the square footage
proposed as part of the planned development preliminary
plan. Remodelling and additions to these homes in the
future shall be in accordance with the limitations in the
zoning regulations.
Transit system equipment:
47. The subdivider shall provide for street furniture and signs
for transit systems, as well as bus turnoutsif necessary,
to the satisfaction of the Mass Transit Committee, as
needed with each phase.
Hillside lots:
��9
® Resolution no. (1990 Series)
Tract 1750
Page it
48. Architectural review is required for all lots east of the
creek.
49. Except as shown on the tentative map, the maximum
streetyard allowed on lots adjacent to the hillside open
space is 201 . Streeiyard exceptions, to reduce the amount
of grading required for location of residences, will be
encouraged where no safety concerns are involved.
50. No solid fences shall be allowed at the rear of any lots
abutting the Islay hill or creek open space. Design
standards for fencing shall be developed, to be approved
by the Community Development Director and the Architectural
Review Commission.
Noise:
51. Noise walls on the single-family lots adjacent to the
railroad buffer area shall be set back at least 10' from
the property line, and the area between the wall and the
street landscaped with drought-tolerant shrubs and
® groundcover by the developer, to the approval of the
Community Development Director.
Fees:
52. The subdivider shall pay any applicable transportation
impact fees adopted by the City Council, which are
anticipated to be adopted on or about July, 1992.
53. The subdivider shall pay any applicable storm drainage fees
adopted by the City council, which are anticipated to be
adopted on or about July, 1992.
Final maps.-
54.'
aps:54.' The final maps shall be submitted to the Planning
Commission for review and recommendation, prior to City
Council approval.
55. Pursuant to Government Code Section 66474.9, the subdivider
shall defend, indemnify and hold harmless the City and/or
its agents, officers and employees from any claim, action,
or proceeding against the City and/or its agents, officers,
or employees to attack, set aside, void, or annul, the
approval by the City of this subdivision, Tract No. 1750,
and all actions relating thereto, including but not limited
® to environmental review and adoption of ordinance No. _
(PD 1449-B) .
C'o��
C _.
Resolution no. (1990 Series)
Tract 1750
Page 12
On motion of
seconded by , and on
the following roll call vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
the foregoing resolution was passed and adopted this day
of , 1990.
z
O Resolution no. (1990 Series)
Tract 1750
Page 12
Mayor
ATTEST:
City Clerk
APPROVED:
ty dministr tive Of cer
t tt ne
Community Dev'pjopment Director
1
/ -ol
RESOLUTION NO. (1990 Series)
A RESOLUTION OF THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SAN LUIS OBISPO
DENYING APPROVAL OF THE TENTATIVE MAP FOR TRACT 1750,.
ON TANK FARM ROAD, .ON THE EAST SIDE OF THE RAILROAD TRACKS
(TRACT. 1750)
BE IT RESOLVED by the Council of the City of San Luis,
Obispo as follows:
SECTION 1. Findings. That this council, after
consideration of public testimony, the subdivision request Tract
1750, the Planning Commission's recommendation, the Architectural
Review Commission's action, the Cultural Heritage Committee's
recommendation, staff recommendations and reports thereon, makes
the following findings:
1. The design of the tentative map and the proposed _.
improvements are not consistent with the general plan and specific
plan for the Edna-islay area.
2. The design of the subdivision and the proposed improvements
are likely to cause serious health problems, substantial
environmental damage or substantially and unavoidably_ injure fish
or wildlife or their habitat.
3. The Community Development Director has determined that the
proposed subdivision is not in compliance with the Edna-Islay
Specific Plan and that further environmental study is needed.
SECTION 2. The tentative map for Tract 1750 is hereby
denied.
Resolution no (1990 Series)
Tract 1750 , .
Page 2
on motion of ,
seconded by and on the following roll
call vote:
AYES:
NOES: '
ABSENT:
the foregoing resolution was passed .and adopted this day
of 1989.
Mayor
ATTEST:
City Clerk
APPROVED:
it . Adin,In is frative fficer
C' y o n
Community Develo nt Director
jzl:res\trl750no.wp ���
' 1
ORDINANCE NO. (1990. SERIES)
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF SAN LUIS OBISPO
AMENDING THE ZONING REGULATIONS MAP TO, DESIGNATE
AN AREA ON TANK FARM ROAD, EAST OF THE RAILROAD TRACKS,
AS R-1-SP-PD AND R-2-SP-PD,
ALLOWING SOME EXCEPTIONS TO DENSITY AI YARDS (PD 1449-B)
WHEREAS, the City Council has held a hearing to consider
the planned evelopment request PD 1449-B; and
WH the City Council makes the following findings;
Findings:
1. The proposed plan d development will not adversely affect the
health, safety, or elfare of persons living or working in the
vicinity.
2. The planned development is appropriate at the proposed
location and will be com�\snwith surrounding land uses.
3. The planned development's ms to the general plan and
specific plan for Edna and meets zoning ordinance
requirements.
4. The proposed planned .develis onsistent with the Edna- _
Islay Specific Plan,/for wn En onmental. Impact Report
was certified by the coun1982. The City Council has
considered the EIRand ad
yx
S. The project provides fas and ame .ties suited to
particular occupancy grofamilies wit children, and
moderate-income homebuyer6. The project pro;�ides a grange of housin types and
costs than would be possible with development ofd uniform
dwellings throughout the project site or neighborhood.
7. Features of the particular design, including common open space
areas, provision of a large play area in the apartment
complex, narrower right-of-way widths, small lots, design of
the Rodriguez` Adobe Park, creek setbacks and bicycle paths,
achieve the Iintent of conventional standards for privacy,
usable open space, adequate parking, and compatibility with
neighborhood character as well as or better than the standards
do.
BE IT ORDAINED by the Council of the City of San Luis
Obispo as follows: � �
Ordinance No. (1990 Series,)
C1 PD 1449-B
Page 2
SECTION 1. The Planned Development PD 1449-B is hereby
approved, subject to the following conditions:
Conditions•
1. A reduction in the number of parking spaces required for the
Housing Authority lot only is hereby approved. Up to 25% of
the required spaces may be eliminated, provided that they are
replaced by an expanded play/picnic area.
2. No sideyard exceptions are allowed for the lots in phases 3
and 4 (small lots).
3. Smaller than normal lot sizes are hereby approved, but in no
case shall a lot size be smaller than 4,000 square feet.
4. Zero-lot line development schemes are allowed in any phase,
provided the separation between buildings is consistent with
the zoning regulations.
5. A density bonus, allowing 353 dwellings, including 134 small
C-' lots, 88 two-bedroom condominium units, 111 large single-
family lots, and 20 two-and three-bedroom Housing Authority
apartments, on the lots as shown on the preliminary plan, is
hereby granted.
6. The applicant shall submit a precise plan, consistent with the
zoning regulations requirements for precise plans, to the
Community Development Director for approval. Such precise
plan may be incorporated in the improvement plans for Tract
1750.
SECTION 2. This ordinance, together with the names of
councilmembers voting for and against, shall be published once in
full, at least (3) days prior to its final passage, in the
Telegram=Tribune, a newspaper published and circulated in this
city. This ordinance shall go into effect at the expiration of
thirty (30) days after its final passage.
C, .
Ordinance No. (1990 Series)
PD 1449-B )
Page 3
INTRODUCED AND PASSED TO PRINT by the Council of the City
of San Luis Obispo at its meeting held on the day of _
1990, on motion of seconded
by and on the following roll call vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
Mayor
ATTEST:
City Clerk '
APPROVED:
City Administrative Officer
1 At r
Community Devel ment Director '�,
rVILL t 1NU AGENDA
DATE 4,_V-f0 ITEM # .�
CITIZENSPLANNING ALLIANCE
OOF SAN LUIS OBISPO CGUNTY , CALIFORNIA
Post Office Box 15247
San Luis Obispo, California 93406 j t•�p:=>-�:
Regarding Tract 1750 i
August 241 1990
Honorable Mayor and City Council
City of San Luis Obispo T
990 Palm Street ._-
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Dear Mayor and Council Members:
We believe there are such serious procedural errors in the City's
processing of Tract 1750 that you should not approve this tract
prior to correcting the errors committed to date.
Our concerns center upon two broad areas:
1. That Tract 1750 is not in conformity with the Edna-Islay Specific
Plan. The Specific Plan contains procedures for its amendment and
modification via the -public hearing process, but these procedures
C have not been followed. Instead the City is processing plans which
are in nonconformity without first modifying the Specific Plan.
This is significant since under the Specific Plan's procedures,
amendments to the plan are to be considered (and always before now
have been so considered) in their own hearings, against a neutral
background, prior to presentation of a development plan
incorporating the changes, so that the plan's concepts can be
carefully evaluated to assess their continuing validity. That this
has not been done undercuts the validity and purpose of all the
City's General and Specific planning documents by establishing a
precedent for disregarding such documents according to the pleasure
of the staff/developers/decision-makers of the moment.
2. That the City's analysis of environmental impacts stemming from
nonconformity between Tract 1750 and the Specific Plan, as well as
impacts due to information that is new since adoption of the
Specific Plan's EIR in 1982, is inadequate, is being carried out in
an improper manner with the deliberate intent of short-circuiting
both the public and the scientific processes, and, indeed, flaunts
both the intent and the letter of the California Environmental
Quality Act.
This letter constitutes a list of the specific issues of which we
are aware at this time which justify the above statements.
RECEIVED
AUG, 2 1 1990
RAAI A line NAICP0.ch 74 7
C • CPA, Page 2
A. Nonconformity between Tract 1150 and the Edna Islay Specific
Plan.
We find it particularly disturbing that the amendment procedures on
Page 81 of the Specific Plan have not been followed.
Staff reports gloss over this issue. They justify what has been
done by stating that the Community Development Director has
determined all the changes are "minor" and therefore can be approved
by him. However, there are three problems with this position:
First, there are many changes that remain unacknowledged or
partially-acknowledged, which have apparently never been subjected
to any determination of "major"/"minor" status at all, by anyone;
rather, the developer's plans have been processed despite
.nonconformity with the Specific Plan. .Apparently the attitude is
one of "see no change, speak no change, have no change. "
Second, though staff reports have stated that all "changes" to the
Specific Plan are "minor, " many of the discrepancies between Tract
1750 and the Edna-Islay Specific Plan concern matters that fall into
categories enumerated on Page 81 to be "major" and therefore require
public hearings, which have not been held.
Third, there are in the City's files, according to the Community
Development Director, no written documentary records of how
determinations of conformity with the Specific Plan (or of
"minor"/"major" status) were made nor of the findings used in
reaching such determinations. There is not even a complete record
of who made the various determinations, and when. The majority of
the "determinations" (if such is the proper word for something that
doesn't exist) are unaccounted for as to time, place and person who
made them. We find it appalling and improper that such
"determinations" can be assumed in any instance by verbal fiat,
without any written documentation whatsoever of the thought process
and factual considerations involved. Such imperial decision-making
is doubly incredible in the present case, where the facts so clearly
do not support many of the alleged "determinations".
Is it this Council 's intent to sanction such sloppy and improper
decision-making procedures? By approving this tract and planned
development, the Council would seem to be saying "Yes. "
Listed below are areas we believe constitute "major" nonconformities
between Tract 1750 and the Edna-Islay Specific Plan.
1. Intrusion of bike/pedestrian path into the core of the Creek -
Preservation Area. The Specific Plan states that preservation
areas are nature preserves planted aggressively so as to keep
people out. Planned humanwasusenot to be allowed.
Bike/pedestrian paths are nom permitted use.
Instead of remaining outside of the creek preservation area, as �.
CPA, Page 3
shown on the Specific Plan map, the developer now proposes to
C , build two bridges into the preservation habitat and to run the
bike path down the center of the peninsula between the two creeks.
This area constitutes the core of the preservation area. The
violaton of the Specific Plan's preservation intent could not be
more flagrant.
No Specific Plan amendment has been processed for this change.
The change is major because it .significantly alters a planning
concept (creek preservation areas) spelled out in the Specific
Plan. The change is also major because it alters design standards
(creek preservation areas) with the effect of significantly
changing the stated intent of the Specific Plan. Furthermore, the
change is major because it would significantly increase
environmental impacts (riparian plant and animal species,
candidate endangered species, wild qualities of the preservation
area) . Public hearings are required for major changes to the
Specific Plan. No public hearings on the change have been
conducted.
This change would not even have been proposed had the City seen to
it that the previous adjacent tract, Tract 1376, was built with
the bike/pedestrian path located where both the Planning
Commission and City Council conditioned its location -- along the
westerly side of the creeks, outside the creek preservation area,
as shown on the Edna-Islay Specific Plan map.
2. Railroad buffer zones are reduced in width, overall area and
extent. These zones are clearly shown on the Specific. Plan map
and constitute one of its key land use concepts. Discussion in
the Specific Plan text makes clear this is a land use designation
with multiple purposes: noise buffer, dust buffer, landscape
value, wildlife habitat, open space, and physical separation of
incompatible uses.
Portions of the buffer are narrowed, others are entirely
eliminated, and the Housing Authority apartments lie practically
entirely within the buffer shown on the Specific Plan map.
No Specific Plan amendment has been processed for this change.
The change is major because it involves a change in the layout. of
land uses involving more than one acre of land. It .is also major
because it involves changes to design standards (multiple purpose
railroad buffers) which significantly change the stated intent of
the Specific Plan. It is major, furthermore, because the change
significantly affects a planning concept (multiple purpose
railroad buffers) spelled out in the Specific Plan. Finally, the
change is also major because it could significantly increase
environmental impacts (noise, dust, reduction of visual landscape
and open space amenity, reduction of wildlife habitat. ) Public
hearings are required for major changes to the Specific Plan. No
public hearings on the change have been conducted.
O3. Housing and roads are to be higher on Islay Hill than shown in
CPA, Page 4
the Specific Plan. As proposed, development extends above the
development limit line on the Specific Plan map. No Specific Plan
amendment has been processed for this change. The change is major
because it involves changes to the layout of land uses (change
from public open space to residential development) involving more
than one acre. It is also major because it is a change that could
significantly increase environmental impacts (visual, slope
stability, fire safety) . Public hearings are required for ma-jor
changes to the Specific Plan. No public hearings on the change
have been conducted.
4. Single family residential lots back onto the Islay Hill open
space instead of a public road's forming the urban edge. This
deprives the public of the Specific Plan's envisioned direct
visual, psychological and physical access to the public open space
on the mountainside. No Specific Plan amendment has been
processed for this change. The change is major because it alters
the Specific Plan's street system so as to significantly alter
land use and circulation concepts of the Specific Plan. It is
also major because it significantly affects a planning concept
(public access to public open space) spelled out in the Specific
Plan. Public hearings are required for major changes to the
Specific Plan. No public hearings on the change have been
conducted.
5. Residential densities in multi-family areas along Tank Farm
Road exceed maximums called out in the Specific Plan. The
Edna-Islay Specific Plan says medium density shall mean a range of - -
6 to 12 units per acre. The condominiums have a density of 13.4
units per acre. The Housing. Authority apartments have a density
of 15.3 units per acre (on "free land" taken from the railroad
buffer) . To justify this excess density, the developer has
requested a 25% density bonus. Even with that bonus, however, the
Housing Authority density cannot be justified. It is unclear from
the Specific Plan that such exceptions from maximum densities are
even permitted. If they were to be permitted, however, they would
clearly be major, since they affect fundamental concepts (density,
amenities, increases in environmental impact) of the Specific
Plan. No Specific Plan amendment has been processed for this
change. Public hearings are required for major changes to the
Specific Plan. No public hearings on the change have been
conducted.
6. The storm water detention basin concept has been changed. The
Specific Plan had a sophisticated conceptual detention system,
which would detain storm flows, and "meter" their release. The
developers 'propose a paperwork transfer of storm flow from one
drainage basin to another, the effect of which is to reduce the
size of the detention basin in Tract 1750. Since the basin was to
have provided a dry-season recreational area as well as all-year
landscaped buffering along the railroad, this is not simply an
issue of hydrological feasibility. No Specific Plan amendment has
been processed for this change. The change is major because it
I
CPA, Page 5
involves changes to planning concepts of the Specific Plan (method
of hydrological control, multiple use of detention areas) . It is
also major because it involves significant changes to the land use
layout (from detention basin/recreation to residential) in excess
of one acre. Public hearings are required for major changes to
the Specific Plan. No public hearings on . the change have been
conducted.
7. The "master tract" approach of Tract 1750 was found by the
previous Community Development Director to be inconsistent with
the Specific Plan. This is because the Specific Plan permits
processing subdivisions for no more than two phases at a time. No
Specific Plan amendment has been processed for this change despite
the fact the previous CDD stated one would be necessary. The
change is major because it involves changes to planning concepts
(phasing, growth management) contained in the Specific Plan.
Public hearings are required for major changes to the Specific
Plan. No public hearings on the change have been conducted.
8. The optional equestrian center has been replaced with
residential uses. The Specific Plan shows an optional equestrian
center at the foot of Islay Hill by the railroad. In addition to
the horse facility itself, this area was to provide railroad
buffering and an open space amenity. Most of the area designated
equestrian facility is now shown as single-family residential. No
Specific Plan amendment has been processed for this change. The
change is major because it involves changes in land use in excess
of one acre (recreation/open space to residential) . It is also
major because it could significantly increase environmental
impacts (placing homes nearer railroad and nearer landslide areas
on hill; and encouraging a possible equestrian center within the
public open space easement higher on Islay Hill) . Furthermore,
the change is major because it affects a planning concept (urban
equestrian center amenity) . Public hearings are required for
major changes to the Specific Plan. No public hearings on the
change -have been conducted.
The above items represent areas of nonconformity with the Specific
Plan for which no Specific Plan amendments have been processed.
In addition, there are several areas of nonconformity for which the
Community Development Director made determinations that the changes
were "minor" but which the Specific Plan clearly calls out as
"major. " These are the following:
1. A private recreation area of 1.4 acres next to the railroad has
been eliminated from Tract 1750's plans. This is major because it
involves a change in the layout of land uses (elimination of the
category of private recreation, change from recreation to
residential) involving more than one acre. Public hearings are
required for major changes to the Specific Plan. No public
hearings on the change have been conducted.
2. Medium density residential areas have been substantially
CPA, Page 6
altered in location and type of unit envisioned. The. Specific
Plan map shows two separate medium density areas, one along Tank
Farm Road, and one along the creek east of the railroad. Tract
1750 changes the latter area to a substandard small lot single
family residential subdivision. The change is major because it
involves land use layout changes larger than one acre. It is also
major because it significantly affects a planning concept of the
Specific Plan (housing type mix, renter vs. owner, affordability) .
Furthermore, it is major because it will significantly increase
environmental impacts due to increased grading required, and due
to plans to pad the small single family lots, with vertical grade
changes from lot to lot of up to 12 feet. Public hearings are
required for major changes to the Specific Plan. No public
hearings on the change have been conducted.
3. Overall dwelling unit density exceeds that permitted in the
Specific Plan. The developer has requested a zone change from R-2
to R-1 for the medium density area near the creek shown in the
Specific Plan as a way to obtain greater density than allowed in
the Specific Plan. The Specific Plan allows 498 equivalent
density units in the area covered by Tract 1750. With the zoning
designations indicated in the Specific Plan, the density proposed
by the developer would be 521 equivalent units, which exceeds the
maximum permitted in the Specific Plan by 23 units. However, by
rezoning the medium density area to R-1, actual units rather than
equivalent units are counted in that area, and Tract 1750's
density is reduced on paper to 473 units without in fact altering
the true number of units. This rezoning, however, is totally
deceptive, for the "single family" lots are as small as 4,100
square feet, which is smaller than the minimum R-1 lot size (6,000
square feet) . The rezoning is being done solely for the purpose
of altering the.density calculation to bring it within the
Specific Plan's limits. This is a major change because it
significantly affects a planning concept of the Specific Plan
(density, type of housing, rental opportunities) . It is also a
major change because it may significantly increase environmental
impacts (grading, greater population in less space, more trips
generated, greater environmental stress) . Public hearings are
required for major changes to the Specific Plan. No public
hearings on the change have been conducted.
4. The resulting substandard small lot R-1 subdivision meets
neither the low density nor the medium density standards of the
Specific Plan. For example, low density areas are to meet
property development standards defined by the City's R-1
standards. On its face, this is impossible for a substandard
subdivision. Medium density areas, on the other hand, "should
promote a variety of housing types." This substandard subdivision
promotes only one housing type-- the free-standing single family
house. No Specific Plan Amendment has been processed for this
change. The change is major because it involves a fundamental
change in important Specific Plan concepts (housing type mix,
demographic mix, neighborhood variety, affordability, and
development standards) . Public hearings are required for major
�-3�
CPA, Page 7
changes to the Specific Plan. . No public hearings on this change
have been conducted.
We believe that all of the above areas of nonconformity should be
subjected to the "major" change public hearing amendment process
described in the Edna-Islay Specific Plan. Since no public hearings
on these changes have been conducted, the City is in serious violation
of its own Specific Plan procedures.
B. We remain firm in our belief that the environmental review of this
project is inadequate and flaunts the law.
The fundamental premise of CEQA is that decision-makers are to have
all the relevant environmental facts before them prior to making a
project approval so they can use those. facts to shape a project that
will minimize adverse environmental impacts.
Council by its own action, in approving a project and then requiring a
27-month post-approval turtle habitat study (to determine the
project's effects on several candidate endangered species) , admits
that it lacks all the facts it needs prior to approving the project.
We object to approval of Tract 1750 on the following environmental
grounds:
1. The approval, based on clearly incomplete information, flaunts
the purpose and intent of CEQA.
2. The City has been presented with ample documentation of the
seriousness of the endangered species issue, and has. failed to
respond meaningfully.
3. The City has chosen to pay attention to input that helps advance
the cause of immediate project approval, while ignoring or
discounting input that supports additional study prior to approval.
We believe this selective use of input is a political .act and
constitutes an abuse of CEQA.
4. By choosing to deal with the endangered species issue by doing an
addendum to the original EIR instead of doing the Subsequent or
Supplemental EIR recommended by planning staff and requested by.
numerous citizens (and, we believe, required by CEQA) , the City has
deprived citizens, who have demonstrated their intense interest in
the subject, of the opportunity to meaningfully assist in shaping
the document, as is required of EIRs and Supplements by CEQA. We
believe this deprivation of interested parties of their
participatory right is deliberate on the City's part and is
improper.
5. Among other reasons, we also believe an Addendum is theimproper
vehicle for handling the endangered species issues because it
violates Sections 15162, 15163 and 15.164 of the CEQA Regulations.
The endangered species are "new information" and Section 15162
7-33
C _ CPA, Page 8
mandates a Subsequent EIR or Supplement for new information, while
Section 1.5164 specifically prohibits use of Addenda for
circumstances covered by the previous two Sections.
That the endangered species are "new information" is evident from
the following facts:
a. They did not have candidate endangered status when the EIR was
done in 1982;
b. None of the three species are discussed in any meaningful way
in the EIR;
c. Only one of the species, the Pacific pond turtle (Clemmys
marmorata) , is mentioned in the EIR, and here is the sum total of
what is said about it: "Species expected to occur in this area
would include the. . . Pacific pond turtle. . ." (p. 27) . The EIR's
research, in other words, was so superficial that the
environmental document could not even state as a fact the
existence of the turtle on the site. We do notbelieve such
superficial mention supports the City's claim that impacts on the
turtle were covered in the EIR.
d. We can find no references whatsoever in the EIR to the other
two species, the red-legged frog and the two-striped garter snake,
under either their common or their Latinate names. Discussion -of
these species is therefore totally new information. ,\
6. The endangered garter snake is addressed in neither the EIR nor -%
the Addendum.
7. The Addendum is inaccurate on its face. since it claims the EIR
discussed the frogs.
8. The Addendum offers no scientific facts to support its
conclusions and recommendations regarding the turtles and frogs. It
appears to base its conclusions solely on a letter from the
political arm of the Department of Fish and Game, which was
solicited in person by the developer and his agent. It totally
ignores contradictory written recommendations in the City's
possession from expert biologists, including the Department of Fish
and Game's own riparian habitat expert and a nationally-recognized
Pacific pond turtle expert.
9. The Addendum glosses over the fact that under the Edna-Islay
Specific Plan human activity is prohibited within creek preservation
areas. The Addendum makes it sound as if the principal issue with
the bicycle path traversing the core of the creek preservation area
is the new designation of two riparian inhabitants of the perserve
as candidate endangered species, when, in fact, it is nonconformity
with the explicit directives of the Specific Plan that is the
significant issue. The bike path does not belong within the creek
perservation area. The Addendum should analyze the "mitigated
project alternative" (i.e. , locating the bike path elsewhere) as
9.3�{
CPA, Page 9
well as the "no project" alternative (no bike path) . Both would
have less significant environmental impacts. Neither has been
studied.
10. The Addendum mis-states the facts in saying, "The proposed
bicycle/pedestrian path enters an area. . . which may be suitable
habitat for the two species." This area is KNOWN habitat. In fact,
plans show the path's easterly bridge going directly over one of the
main turtle ponds. How the bridge and the sewer line beneath it can
be built without destroying the pond and its inhabitants is not
mentioned in the Addendum..
11 . Nowhere does the Addendum address the issue of turtle nesting
habitat, which studies show may be some considerable distance
overland from the stream. The Addendum is also mute on how it
determined, in advance of doing a habitat and nesting area study,
that the only relevant habitat area outside the creek area will be
on lots 184 through 206. These are north-facing lots. Existing-
turtle research suggests turtles use south-facing slopes as nesting
sites. Since this issue is not addressed, the Addendum does not
have the opportunity to address the fact that nesting habitat may be
obliterated by development being approved as part of Tract 1750.
12. The Addendum fails to identify a principal concern about houses
being built higher on Islay Hill than permitted on the Edna-Islay
Specific Plan map, with backyard fences rather than a street forming
the urban edge, namely: the fact that the hill will become in effect
private backyard rather than public open space. . The result is a
reduction of the public visual open space amenity, a "chilling
effect" on public use and enjoyment of open space areas near private
yards, and a corresponding reduction of public access and enjoyment
opportunities. No mitigation measures pertaining to this proposed
privatization of public open space are included.
13. In its discussion of the houses higher on the hill than
permitted in the. Specific Plan, the Addendum should have discussed
the "Preserve Islay Hill" alternative project examined in the EIR
(Section 4.4) . This is essentially a ,no project" alternative for
the entire hill, and it shifts the burden of development off the
hill, and also away from the presumed turtle habitat. Again, the
Addendum fails to look at alternatives, and instead serves as a
further rationalization for development as proposed by the
developer.
13. The Addendum fails to deal with the visual and erosion impacts ,
of a fire break which will have to be maintained behind the back
yard fences of homes backing up to Islay Hill. This is a serious
environmental impact which can be completely avoided by following
the Edna-Islay -Specific Plan, which shows a public street forming
the urban edge.
14. The Addendum's discussion of the change from medium-density
�. residential shown in the Specific Plan to small lot single family
residential fails to mention the major environmental impact of this
7-3�
CPA, Page 10
change: the necessity to grade the land heavily to make padded lots
with vertical grade elevation changes between the small (51000
square foot average) lots of up to 12 feet. Townhouse or apartment
construction would allow mitigation of this environmental impact
since larger areas could be contoured more gently, The original
land use designation envisioned apartments or townhouses, not
single-family houses disguised as medium density development. The
Addendum' s conclusion that "no significant environmental effects
will result from the change" is therefore totally false and
misleading. The Addendum simply chose not to discuss the very
obvious significant environmental effects.
15. The Addendum's discussion of the railroad buffer reduction from
what is shown in the Specific Plan is inadequate because of the
following:
a. It fails to mention the impact of building 20 low income
apartments almost entirely within the area previously shown as
buffer. This reduces natural planted area, and also has effects
on residents due to noise, vibration, diesel exhaust and dirt.
b. It assumes the buffer's only function is for sound attenuation,
whereas the Specific Plan makes clear the buffer is a multi-use
concept: sound attenuation, dust control, visual relief, physical
separation of incompatible uses, and wildlife habitat area. The
Specific Plan Technical Appendix contains a letter from the
Department of Fish and Game which points out the buffer's
importance if planted densely with species useful for wildlife
food and cover, to help mitigate for loss of bird and animal
habitat in built-over areas. The Addendum does not address the
environmental impact on wildlife of substantially reducing the
size of the buffer area.
c. The Addendum fails to provide technical analysis to prove its
contention that small segments of soundwalls near houses (far from
the railroad) "perform equally or better than the concept shown in
the specific plan." In fact, it is a well-known noise control
principle that the nearer to the source noise is controlled, the
more effective the control. The walls by houses may adequately
control railroad sounds in adjacent bedrooms, but they will do
nothing for the neighborhood as a whole. The original Specific
Plan concept of a continuous sound wall or berm at the railroad
right of way, on the other hand, has been shown from long
experience to be a correct solution for the entire neighborhood.
A continuous sound wall's appearance will be mitigated by the
dense buffer plantings called for in the Specific Plan, and can be
turned into a community visual asset by planting drought tolerant
vines (native clematis, bougainvillea, etc. ) along the wail.
16. The Addendum is is a poorly fabricated document. It is nothing
more than a political rationalization for proceeding immediately
with the project without meaningful environmental analysis. We
believe it should be totally rejected as inadequate.
�3�
CPA, Page 11
17. Among the environmentalissues that remain unexamined is the
need for analysis of the health effects of building homes close to
high power transmission lines such •3s the major feeder line that
traverses part of Tract 1750 . The 100-foot wide easement called out
in the conditions .is simply a restatement of the minimum requirement
of the Specific Plan. There is much new information on this subject
since the EIR of 1982, which doesn't even mention the issue. Houses
may be within 50 feet of this line. Does the City have any evidence
that inhabitants will not be exposed to the undue health risks that
have been so widely discussed in recent literature on the subject?
What happens to residents 50 feet from one of these lines if a wire
snaps or arcs? What sort of radio and television reception will
neighbors have? Since the proposed Tract 1750 shows more houses
near the lines than the Edna-Islay Specific Plan would have allowed,
why was this issue not analyzed as one of the areas of nonconformity
between the tract and the Specific Plan? why has it not been
analyzed as new information since the original EIR? No mitigations
are proposed because the issues presented by the powerlines have not
been examined.
We believe the Addendum is a very poor document. Its main function is
not to shed light on environmental issues, but to pay lip service in
as quick a way as possible to the legal requirement for environmental
study.
It appears to our..organization that. He Addendum's actual function is
to rationalize development as proposed by the developer. The continual
refusal of those who completed the document to look at alternatives
C other than those proposed by the developer proves this. point beyond a
reasonable doubt. It is an affront to the intelligence and concerns
of the citizens of San Luis Obispo. The Adendum should be rejected
out of hand as inadequate to deal with the problems presented by
Tract 1750.
Again, we urge the City Council not to approve this project until the
proper and complete procedures -- both the major Specific Plan
amendments via public hearings and a Supplemental EIR that will place
ALL relevant environmental information on the table PRIOR TO PROJECT
APPROVAL -- have been completed.
Since y,
/ Fred Frank
President
�-37
JOHN L. WALLACE & ASSOCIATES
CONSULTING CIVIL ENGINEERS
1
September 4, 1990 DATE PATE-
9_
Mayor Dunin and City Council MembersP.C24DA1Yc'd11 -
City of San Luis Obispo
P.O. Box 8100 �/' CO!,% I?r'C^DD',-
��
San Luis Obispo,, California 93403-8100 E G�' 13 FN.U= !
p CYC,rroF� ❑ rv.�' t II
I.kl C.40 ❑ UYIL DIM,
Subject: Tract 1750 - Islay Hill cLuuce.;s. 1P'T
Honorable Mayor and Council Members:
This letter is a brief response to a letter submitted to the
Council by the Citizens Planning Alliance (CPA) , dated August 24,
1990.
We believe the CPA letter to be a lengthy restatement of issues
regarding Tract 1750 which it claims are not being resolved or
properly handled via the public hearing process. All of the
issues raised in the CPA letter have been the subject of
extensive documentation previously submitted to the City, and
discussed at approximately fifteen public hearings, including the
recent Planning Commission and City Council Public Hearings.
We feel that these hearings were advertised very well and it is
unfortunate that the CPA did not choose to address the respective
bodies at any of the numerous public hearings. We understand
that the Council will be presented with a staff response through
the current staff report. We have also responded to the specific
items in the CPA letter in our letter to Staff of. September 4,
1990, and we would be pleased to discuss it, if needed, at the
Council Meeting on September 18, 1990.
We believe strongly that proper public hearing processes have
been followed in the pending approval of Tract 1750. The fact
that significant project refinements have already occurred in
response to the issues raised in the CPA letter confirms the
validity of the process. We believe that Tract 1750 has met all
requirements for final Council approval on September 18, 1990,
and we respectfully urge the Council to do so.
Sincerely,
L. WALLACE & ASSOCIATES
L. Gl1�Qu.�
L. Wallace
Principal �R C jD
jf �
CAC:rmb/110-3 SLN 4199
QTVOP ' C
110/alliresp.ltr. SAN10M1pW00cA
1458 HIGUERA STREET• SAN LUIS OBISPO,CALIFORNIA 93401 • (805)5444011 • FAX(805)544-4294
MEETING DATE:
city or San -WIS OBISPO - O
Malmo COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT ITEM NUMB R:
FROM: Arnold Jonas, Commun' y Development Director
PREPARED BY: Judith Lautner, ssociate Planner
SUBJECT: a. ) Tract 1750: A subdivision to create 245 single-family
lots, ss medium-density airspace condominiums, a
neighborhood park and a small "historical" park, in six
phases;
b.) PD 1449-B: A planned development rezoning to allow
exceptions to lot sizes, yards, and density.
The proposals affect property on the east side of the railroad
tracks in the Edna-Islay specific Plan area.
CAO RECOMMENDATION:
1. Review the Environmental Impact Report addendum prepared in response
to council. direction and adopt it through inclusion of language in
the resolution for Tract 1750; and
2. Introduce an ordinance to print, amending the zoning map for the
property from R-1-SP, R-2-SP, and C/OS-40-SP to R-1-SP-PD, R-2-SP-
PD, and C/OS-40-SP-PD; and
3. Adopt a resolution approving the tentative map for Tract 1750, with
findings and conditions.
Report-.in-brief
The council reviewed this project on two occasions, and continued it at
the last hearing, with direction to staff to prepare an addendum to the i
Environmental Impact Report (EIR) , addressing the various changes to and
interpretations of the specific plan approved by the previous director.
Councilmembers also asked for additional information.
In response to that direction, staff has prepared an addendum, which is
attached to this report. The addendum contains, among other information,
confirmation that the detention basin designs are adequate.; A letter
has been sent to the school district, asking for information about the
district's plans to accomodate this and other future development, and
offering any help the city can provide.
The applicants are objecting to some of the recommended conditions of
approval of this map: One condition, recommended by the Planning
Commission, requires Planning Commission review of the final maps. The
applicants feel the requirement is time-consuming and unnecessary. The
Planning Commission also recommended that no sideyard exceptions be
allowed for buildings on the small lots (phases 3 and 4) . The applicants
want to be able to apply for minor exceptions on a case-by-case basis.
The applicants object to conditions 52 and 53, which require
transportation impact and storm drainage fees, which are fees not yet
adopted by the council. They feel it is inappropriate to impose not-
yet-adopted fees on a vesting map. This objection is contained in a
letter attached to this report, along with a memorandum on the subject
crty of san lues oBi spo
WIGn COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT
Tract 1750
PD 1449-B
1107 Tank Farm Road
Page 2
from the same attorney (while acting as City Attorney) , dated August 5,
1988. Since the public hearing was closed at the previous meeting, the
applicants are preparing written objections for the council to consider.
Once these issues are resolved, the council should approve the map and
planned development, adopting the addendum as part of the action.
DISCUSSION
Background
Situation/previous review
The applicants want to develop the remainder of their property on the
"Islay Hill" side of the Edna-Islay Specific Plan area. They are asking
for approval of a master vesting tentative subdivision map and a planned
development rezoning. Final maps would be submitted for each of six
phases, consistent with the approved tentative map.
The Planning Commission reviewed this request in a study session o
January 3, 1990, and held public hearings on February 28 and March 28,, -
1990.
8,1990. On March 28, the commission voted 3-2 to recommend approval of the
tentative map to the council. The Architectural Review Commission
reviewed plans for the condominium and apartment sites on April 16, and
May 14, 1990, and granted schematic approval to those designs.
The Parks and Recreation Commission reviewed the Rodriguez Park site in
June, 1989, and the trail proposal for Islay Hill on March 7, 1990, and
recommended that no trails be installed as part of this development. The
Cultural Heritage Committee (CHC) visited the adobe site and discussed
the use of the adobe. That committee reviewed the proposed adobe park
site on,,April 23, 1990, and recommended approval with a stipulation that
houses surrounding the adobe site be reviewed by the CHC to assure
compatibility with the adobe and maintenance of views. The City Council
heard this item on June 6, and on July 3, 1990, and directed staff to
prepare an addendum to the previously certified .EIR to address the
additional protection of certain animal species on site and the minor
changes to the specific plan that had been approved by the director.
Data summary
Address: 1107 Tank Farm Road
Applicant/property owner: Pacifica Corporation (Stuart Greene, project
director)
Zoning: R-1-SP, R-2-SP, and C/OS-40-SP
General plan: Low-density residential
Environmental status: EIR certified for the Edna-Islay Specific Plan in
1982; addendum under review concurrently with map
�►, ��hu��Inq�i��l city of san tuts oBispo
COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT
Tract 1750
PD 1449-B
1107 Tank Farm Road
Page 3
Project action deadline: October 7, 1990 (90-day time extension
granted by applicant)
Site description
The site is a large (139 acres) , irregular-shaped parcel of varying
topography. A creek cuts across the property from north to south,
starting near the intersection of Orcutt Road with Tank Farm Road. A
portion of Islay Hill takes up about a third of the area. An adobe
dating from the 1850's is the only building on the site.
The site surrounds (on three sides) the first development on this side
of the tracks, Tract 1376 ("The Arbors") . The 131 homes in Tract 1376
are complete.
Project description
The applicants propose a subdivision and planned development to create:
1. ) 134 single-family lots ranging from 4,100 to 8,600 square feet,
averaging 5,500 square feet in area;
2.) 88 air-space condominiums on 6.6 acres, including a program to
provide 23 units to low- and moderate-income families (administered
by the Housing Authority) ;
3.) A 1.8-acre site to be made available for sale to the Housing
Authority, adequate in size for twenty apartments (as required by
the specific plan) ;
4. ) 111 large "custom" lots, averaging 9,900 square feet;
5. ) An easement, to be dedicated to the city, over 75 acres of open
space (Islay Hill) , with a contribution for trail construction;
6.) A combined city and linear park, totalling over 13 acres, to be
dedicated to the city;
7.) A one-acre "mini-park" to be dedicated to the city, containing the
rehabilitated Rodriguez adobe (restoration partially funded by
developer) ;
8.) A 400,000-gallon water tank to serve a portion of the development
(water from the Edna Saddle and Terrace Hill reservoirs, along with
the new water tank, will adequately serve the entire Edna Islay
area) .
.1
(11111110lljpll,� city of San Luis OBI SPO
A
MMhMa COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT
Tract 1750
PD 1449-B
1107 Tank Farm Road
Page 4
EVALUATION
1. EIR Addendum. Per council direction, staff prepared an addendum to
the EIR to address the following issues: creek habitat changes,
street alignment changes, detention basin design, replacement of
private recreation area with public park, design- of medium-density
areas, and the railroad buffer design. Copies of the addendum have
been included in the council's packet for review.
2. Impacts on Schools. Councilmembers expressed concern over the
impact of this and nearby future projects on schools in the area.
The council directed staff to prepare a letter to the school
district, asking about the district's plans to serve the additional
housing and offering assistance. This letter has been sent, with
copies to the City Council.
State law limits the assistance the city can provide to school
districts:
Government code: Section 65995 says that public agencies canno
require any fees, charges, dedications, or other requirement of a -
development project, for the construction or reconstruction of
school facilities.
Section 65996 says that a public agency must not deny a project on
the basis of the adequacy of school facilities.
CEOA Guidelines: Section 15091(a) (2) says that a public agency must
rely on the school district to provide mitigation for significant
impacts on schools. The city may recommend specific mitigation
measures to the district.
3. Planning Commission review of final maps. The Planning Commission,
in its recommendation of approval of the subdivision, attached a
condition saying that all final maps for the project are to be
reviewed by the Planning Commission (condition 154) . The commission
attached this condition because of concerns that the normal review
may not be adequate. (See discussion in commission minutes. )
The applicants are opposed to this condition. Final maps are not
required, either by the city's subdivision regulations or by state
law, to be reviewed by the Planning Commission. The applicants
object to the condition because of the additional work and time
involved, and their belief that no useful purpose would be serve
by the process. If the council prefers that the Planning Commissio,.
not review the final maps, then condition no. 54 should be
eliminated.
01IIIII%P�jjI city of San LUIS OBispo
NOMMe COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT
Tract 1750
PD 1449-B
1107 Tank Farm Road
Page 5
4. Trails on Islay Hill. The Parks and Recreation Commission (P&R)
reviewed the Islay Hill trails system proposal on March 7, 1990.
After hearing testimony on the fragility of soils on the hill, that
commission recommended to the council that the hill be left in its
natural condition, but that the developer fund the cost of
construction of the proposed trails. (See P&R minutes for
discussion. ) The commission wanted the city to have the money
available to build trails later, if usage indicated the need.
Government code (Section 66000 et seq - AB 1600) says that if
certain required development fees are not "spent or committed" to
the use for which they were required, within five years, then the
city must make certain findings to retain the fees or must refund
them. The fees recommended above fall into this category.
It may be several years before the council decides that hillside
trails or some alternative improvements are necessary. If the money
is refunded after five years, it would not be available later.
`- The council, if it follows the P&R commission's recommendation to
require the developer to fund the cost of construction trails,
should commit those funds to physical improvements or maintenance
of Islay Hill. That commitment, to meet the intent of state law,
has to show a relationship between the amount of the fee and the
type of development. Recommended finding no. 8 and condition no.
38 meet that requirement for commitment. By making a commitment of
this type, the city will not be required to -refund the money after
five years, if it is not used.
5. sideyard exceptions. The subdividers originally requested sideyard
exceptions for a small number of lots in the "small-lot" phases of
development. The Planning Commission suggested the subdividers look
at alternative techniques for increasing yard areas on the small
lots, including "zero-lot-line" designs. The commission recommends
that no sideyard exceptions be allowed on the small lots, to assure
that they are not overbuilt. This restriction has been made a
condition of the planned development approval ordinance. (no. 2)
The subdividers have since withdrawn the home designs submitted with
the original map, saying that they would prefer to wait to redesign
until. water is available, so their designs can more closely match
what the market demands at that time.
The subdividers are considering zero-lot-line configurations, among
others. A condition (no. 4) of the planned development rezoning
allows this flexibility in lot design. The representatives have
asked, however, that the council allow review of exceptions on a
0111o10ppi1;N city of San 1Ue s OBISPO
COUNCIL AGENDA DEPORT
Tract 1750
PD 1449-B
1107 Tank Farm Road
Page 6
case-by-case basis, to allow minor intrusions into yard areas, where
the site design justifies an exception.
If the council agrees with the subdividers' request, condition no.
2 should be eliminated or modified accordingly.
6. Park funding. The Parks and Recreation Element says that the cost
of new parks in new subdivisions should be divided among the city,
the residents, and the subdivider. Condition no. 35 spells out the
cost obligations of the homebuyers and the subdivider, consistent
with the funding schedule approved as part of Tract 1376 (the first
subdivision in this area) .
Residents and the Planning Commission have recommended that the.
developer install the hardscape features in the city park in the.
first phase of project construction. Staff and the developer have.
no problem with this modification to the phasing schedule for the
park. In fact, the developer has indicated a preference to complete
the park as soon as possible, including landscaping when water is
available. The homeowners' cost of construction would then be
reimbursed as park fees are collected from homeowners.
7. Local street connection with Orcutt Road. Councilmembers asked for
an analysis of the design of the intersection of Street A with
orcutt Road. The present design was chosen over the specific plan
design to lessen grading, visual, and safety concerns. The
Engineering Division finds the proposed design superior to the
specific plan intersection, especially in concert with the more
rounded alignment of Orcutt Road southeast of the intersection.
The original EIR analysis of the specific plan intersection offered
the proposed intersection design as a superior alternative.
RECOMMENDATION
1. Review and adopt the Environmental Impact Report addendum prepared
in response to council direction; and
2. Introduce an ordinance to print, amending the zoning map for the
property from R-1-SP, R-2-SP, _and C/OS-40-SP to R-1-SP-PD, R-2-SP-
PD, and C/OS-40-SP-PD; and
3. Adopt a resolution approving the tentative map for Tract 1750, with
findings and conditions.
Attached: 10 W letters from Roger Picquet,
minutes, addendum (appendix separate)
LAW OeFICES
• LyONo & PIp QUET
T[L[P,ION[
PALM
ROGER LYON ET (805) 541.2560
C ROGER PICOUET POST OFFICE BOX 922 TELECORI[R
TIMOTMY U.CARMEL SAN LUIS OBISPO,CALIFORNIA 93406 (606)543.3857
��fir.COM•0��.1M,
August 9, 1990
SAND DELIVERED RECEIVED
AUG 91990
Arnold Jonas C11y 0I SN1 LUIS Ob,=0
Ci"mumy Doelmlle I
Community Development Dizector
City of. San Luis Obispo
P.O. Box 8100
San Luis Obispo, CA 93403-8100
Res Proposed Conditions of Approval for Tract 1750
Dear Mr. Jonas:
Pacifica has asked that we set forth the specific legal grounds for
its objections to several 'proposed conditions for the above-
referenced subdivision. Specifically, Conditions No. 52 and 53
would obligate Pacifica to pay tansportation impact and storm
drainage fees anticipated to be adopted by Council in approximately
two years (July 1992) . It is our opinion that such requirements
may not be legally imposed.
The processing of subdivision applications is regulated by the
State of California by the Subdivision Map Act (SMA) , Government
Code Sections 66410 et seq. Section 66474.2 provides that a city
may impose only those conditions which are already in effect at the
time the application for the tentative map (whither vesting or not)
has been determined to be complete. That section reads as follows:
(a) Except as otherwise provided in subdivision (b) or
(c) , in determining whether to approve or disapprove ar
application for a tentative map, the 16cal agency shall
apply only those ordinances, policies, and standards in
effect at the date the local agency has determined that
the application is complete pursuant to Section 65943 of
the Government Code.
(b) Subdivision (a) shall not apply to a local agency
which, before it has determined *an application for a
tentative map to be complete pursuant to Section 65943,
has done both of the following.
C
�_ys
Arnold Jonas
Tract 1750 Pacifica
August 9, 1990
Page 2
(1) Initiated proceedings by way of ordinance,
resolution or motion.
(2) Published notice in the manner prescribed in
subdivision (a) of Section 65090 containing a description
sufficient to notify the public of the nature of the
proposed change in the applicable general or specific
plans, or zoning or subdivision ordinances.
A local agency which has complied with this subdivision
may apply any ordinances, policies, or standards enacted
or instituted as a result of those proceedings which are
in effect on the date the local agency approves or
disapproves the tentative map. . . .
As you can see, in very limited circumstances, provided that the.
City has taken explicit formal steps to initiate changes to its
standards and requirements, it is possible to require compliance.
with the new requirements.
In the present situation, the application was, determined to be
complete on January 3, 1990. As of that date, the City had not
formally initiated proceedings to adopt the fees in questionnor
published the requisite notices. We have been unable to discover
any other facts or circumstances which would bring the subject fees
within the exception. Accordingly, we formally protest the
proposed conditions. We note further that the provisions of
Section 66483 (enabling authority for drainage or sewer facilities)
imposes even more restrictive conditions on the imposition of storm
drainage fees (e.g. , the ordinance imposing the fee must have been
in effect at least thirty (30) days prior to the filing of a
tentative map) .
We have done exhaustive research and are aware of no case law
abrogating the clear meaning of Section 66474.2 that only those
conditions (including fees) in effect at the time the application.
is determined to be complete may be applied; nor is it necessary to
analyze the effects created by the fact that this is a vesting
tentative map. Suffice to say "the private sector should be able
to rely upon an approved vesting tentative map prior to expending
resources and incurring liabilities without the risk of having the
project frustrated by subsequent action" by the City. (Government
Code Section 66498.9 (b) . ) It would render the lawful benefits
Arnold Jonas
C Tract 1750/Pacifica
August 9, 1990
Page 3
obtainable through a vesting tentative map impossible to secure if
a city could merely "anticipate" future fees or conditions.
We request that Conditions 52 and 53 be deleted as inappropriate
and unauthorized under the law.
Please call if you have any questions.
Sincerely,
LYON & PICQU
Roge Picqu tl
RP:ar
cc: Pacifica Corporation
O Jeff Jorgensen
City .Attorney
John Dunn
City Manager
City Council
O
47
Cly of� san x,115 OBISPO .
m� 990 Paim Street/Post Office Box 8100 • San Luis Obispo,CA 93403.8100
(805) 549-7140 (,
August 5, 1988
MEMORANDUM
To: Judy Lautner, Associate Planner
From: Roger Picquet. City Attorney
Subject: Vesting Tentative Map Questions
To close the loop on this subject, I forward the answers to your questions
given by Dan Curtin's associate. Michael 2ischke:
Question 1: It appears that a moratorium based on water or sewer
deficiencies would affect both standards and vesting tentative maps
equally. True?
Answer 1: Yes, provided statutory findings set forth in Section
66498(c)(1) are made.
Question 2: If we feel new fees (new types of fees) will be
Initiated within 12 to 24 months, that equitably should be paid by all as
they affect the city's ability to provide adequate resources, can we make
findings to deny a vesting tentative map? Would it be in the public
Interest to do so? What findings have other communities used to deny
vesting maps? Are there any limitations on cities denying these maps?
Answer 2: A city could not deny a final map based on the existence
of new fees adopted since approval of the tentative map: A city could
attach conditions on tentative maps to reflect yet-to-be adopted fees.
(Should be as specific as possible; e.g. . "subdivider shall pay water
conservation and development fees to be considered and adopted by the
Council in (month. year).")
Question 3: Can a health or safety reason be used to prevent
approval of a final map based on a vesting tentative map. if water or
sewer deficiencies will prevent development of the lots (at least
temporarily)? In other words. can the creation of the lots (and their,
transfer to others) be avoided in this situation? What might be a
strategy for achieving this objective?
Answer 3: No. not unless specific findings relating to "dangerous
conditions" (see Code) .
Call me if you have any questions. It was ironic to find myself pushing p
rtlrfin\C nerine Iw- . -man,a rww.n ► bw wr.r 1.wr,r ..w rr /ww/ -n/• -�
4
Cl P.C. Minutes
February 28, 1990
Page 8.
VOTING: AYES - Commrs. Karleskint, Kourakis, Crotser, Hoffman, Schmidt
and Duerk. /
NOES - None.
ABSENT - None.
The moti XHerin
--------- ----:-------------------------- -----------
Item 7. rin Use Permit U1474. Re at to allow a museum for
lO Nipomo Street; PF-S zo pending; Children ' s Museum
is -ispo, applicant .
Judith Lasented th staff rep . and recommended approval of the
use permit to findin s and c ditions.
Chairperson Duerk opened the publ hearing and closed it, after
determining there was no one to peak to this item.
Commr. Kourakis moved to ap.p' ve the use 'permit, subject to findings and
conditions.
Commr. Schmidt second.e he motion, Resolution No. 5007-90.
Chairperson Duerk -f t exterior art should go through the public art review
process..
VOTING: AY - Commrs. Kouraki.s., Schmidt, Crotser, .Hoffman, Karleskint
and Duerk..
i OES - None.
ABSENT - None.
Th otion passed.
----------------------9----------------------------------------------
Item 5. Public Hearin z Tract 1750. Consideration of a vesting tentative
tract map creating a 251-lot residential subdivision and 90
residential air.-space condominium withins the Edna-Islay Specific
Plan area; 1107 Tank Farm Road; R-1-SP zones; the Pacifica
Corporation, subdivider.
�J
P.C. Minutes
February 28, 1990
Page 9.
Judith Lautner presented the staff report and recommended the commission
recommend approval of the tentative map and the PD to city council, subject
to findings and conditions, amending conditions 5, 7, and 21 and adding
conditions regarding street paving requirements and Fish & Game Dept.
approval of creek culverts. She noted the receipt . of letters of opposition
to the project , concerned with resource, economical, and environmental
issues.
Commr. Schmidt was concerned about not having the soils and geology report
to determine conformity with the Edna/Islay Specific Plan. He was also
concerned with the creek preservation area and the bike path layout. He
felt there was a general lack of creek information available in the
subdivision maps. He was concerned about deviations in creek preservation
and the protection of open space and public rights-of-way as outlined in
the Specific Plan. He was concerned with the high density calculations of
the condominiums and the Housing Authority area. He had a general concern
with the interpretation of the Specific Plan and what constituted minor and
major amendments and whether that procedure had been followed.
Erwin Willis noted that the flag lots did not appear to meet the fire code.
Mayne Peterson stated he preferred 12 ' lanes and that street rights-of-way
remain consistent.
Chairperson Duerk opened the public hearing.
John Wallace, 1458 Higuera, applicant ' s representative, discussed the
project in terms 'of a housing opportunity resource. He discussed changes
to the Specific Plan and on-going staff involvement -and approval of the
steps of this project. He discussed amenities proposed, such as the new
city park, the historical adobe preservation and park area, types of
housing, the unique trail system and access, and public parking available
for amenity enjoyment. He discussed changes specific to the areas of the
Housing Authority site, reordering the phasing plan, park and well
irrigation plans, pedestrian paths, detention basin use, lot
reconfigurations, creek buffers, creeks entrances and crosses, bike plan,
circulation plan, and parking management. He stated that the city had
reviewed the geological study and felt the lots were in conformance and 10 '
streetways were proposed to city standards. He stated the Specific Plan
map was originally an approximation and that the new map more clearly
presented current information and density calculations and allowances.
Craig Campbell, 1458 Higuera, applicant ' s representative, discussed the
bike lane location in terms of creek preservation and improvement areas.
Michael Cripe, 1.458 Higuera, applicant ' s representative, discussed
determinations of creek buffers and boundaries and the cross-over section.
Commrs. Kourskis and Duerk felt the lower square footage of the open space
was unacceptable.
• 1
�-so
P.C. Minutes
February 28 , 1990
Cge 10. .
'
Commr. Duerk stated she was against the fence system, felt the adobe should
be used as a community resource, asked about proposed street widths, and
stated that lots 120 and 122 had grading problems.
Herb Gottesman, 4058 Edna, was concerned about preserving Islay Hill
against the intense development and trail system proposed.
Adelle Stern, 4444 Orcutt, stated she wanted the developer' to stay specific
to the Specific Plan map and that the suggested buffer street be between
the hillside and houses to protect against wildfires. She was concerned
about the concept of "vesting" .
Robert Stern, 4444 Orcutt, was concerned about Islay Hill erosion and asked
that the Specific Plan be reviewed concerning density bonuses, perking, and
narrowing of street. He felt the well drilling concept was futile and
suggested the water tank be screened.
Edward Callahan, 353 Shell Beach Road, suggested that the proposed
recreation area have a basketball court, which wouldn' t require any
watering and wouldn' t disturb the hillside.
John Wallace responded. to public comments.
Chairperson Duerk closed the public hearing.
'--. ommr. Crotser was concerned with the numerous requested exceptions and
felt square footage limitations should be set and condominium standards
should be met in their entirety. He wanted to see more geological and
slope information and also felt the adobe could be developed as e
neighborhood park.
Commr. Hoffman did not feel the 20' street setback exceptions were
warranted and was concerned with the amount of guest parking in the
condominium area and the amount of private open spaceand street widths.
Commr. Schmidt was concerned that the hill would slide and felt the
developer should bear erosion costs. He felt the grading had problems and
that padding of lots should be minimized. He felt the creek setback should
be a minimum of 20' and that the adobe park should have unlimited public
access. He was concerned with extensive culverting, resale control of
affordable housing, higher elevations of buildings, hillside development
standards , and the specifics of the topography.
Chairperson Duerk moved to continue the item to the next available meeting.
Commr. Karleskint seconded the motion.
VOTING: AYES - Commrs. Duerk, Karleskint, Crotser, Hoffman, Kourskis and
Schmidt.
NOES — None.
CABSENT - None.
P.C. Minutes
February. 28 , 1990
Page 11.
The motion passed.
The meeting adjourned at 1:00 a.m. to the next regular meeting of March 14, ,
1990.
Respectfully submitted,
Lisa Woske
Recording Secretary
1�
MINUTES - CITY PLANNING COMMISSION
City of San Luis Obispo, California
March 28 , 1990 Regular Meeting
PRESENT: Commrs. Charles Crotser, Gilbert Hoffman, Barry Karleskint,
Richard 'Schmidt, and Chairperson Donna Duerk. (One vacancy)
ABSENT: Commr. Janet Kourakis.
OTHERS
PRESENT: Judith Lautner, Associate Planner; Arnold Jonas, Community
Development Director; Erwin Willis, Fire Dept. ; Wayne Pederson,
Engineering; Randy Rossi, Open Space Planner, and Lisa Woske,
Recording Secretary.
The minutes of the meeting were March 3 and March 7, 1990 special meeting:
were approved as submitted.
There were no changes to the agenda.
PUBLIC COMMENTS
Frank Ricceri, 2655 Grell , Oceano , SLOCO Housing representative, requester
that the city investigate converting more land to R-3 zoning to allow their
coalition to have some land available upon which to build viable,
affordable housing.
Item 1. Public Hearing. Tract 1750. Consideration of a vesting tentative
map creating a 251-lot residential subdivision and a 90-unit
residential air-space condominium within the Edna-Islay Specific
Plan area; 1107 Tank Farm Road; R-1-0, R-2-SP, and C/OS-40 SP
zones; The Pacifica Corporation, subdivider. (Continued from
February 289 1990)
Judith Lautner presented the staff report and noted the receipt of a parce
map involving the dedicated open space. She also discussed the impact of
population increase from Tract 1750 on school site placement, and the new
parcel map specifics concerning the open space easement and proposed
equestrian center, streetyard reductions, power line placement, and
detention basin capacity.
Randy Rossi discussed the Edna-Islay Specific Plan interpretations he made
while Interim Community Development Director, regarding minor changes in
the number of units proposed, phasing schedule, private recreation area,
housing mix, and street layout and design.
Commrs. Schmidt, Hoffman, Crotser, and Karl eskint stated they had spoken
with applicant representatives..
7-,S3
C
P.C. Minutes
March 28, 1990 -
Page 2.
Commr. Schmidt was concerned with the park and bike path placed in the
creek protection area, the .lack of an adequate railroad buffer area,
development on the higher hillside, lots backing onto the open space area,
and the residential density of the Housing Authority area.
Mr. Rossi discussed the final bike path placement and supported the
integrated bike path system. He felt the proposed design was the best
solution in terms of environmental and legal issues and could be mitigated
to protect the creek. He felt the proposed solution to the railroad buffe
would achieve noise attenuation, and incorporate water conservation
efforts, and would be immediately effective without lois of views. He fel
the hillside development proposed ultimately offered more open space
acreage.
Commr. Schmidt contended these were major changes to the Specific Plan and
should not be handled at. staff level .
Commr. Karleskint felt there was interpretation flexibility within the
Specific Plan.
Commr. Schmidt was also concerned with the actual grading of the city ,
easement. He noted that rare turtles had been found on site and quest.. ne
whether the existing EIR was adequate. He was concerned with approving a
vesting map when development might not commence for several years .
Mayne Peterson discussed the detention basin system and slide areas .
Chairperson Duerk noted four letters were received ,from John Chesnut ,
outlining concerns with the tract development.
Staff discussed the submitted list of modified conditions.
Chairperson Duerk opened the public hearing.
John Wallace, 1358 Higuera, applicant 's representative, discussed the
changes made in response to previous commission concerns and outlined the
public facilities and enhancements provided by this project. He discussed
reasons why he felt this plan was superior to the original submittal. He
stated there were 470 dwellings in the project. He did not agree with
condition 27 realigning "A" Street, as it required more grading and would
be too steep. He felt drainage solutions were adequate. He stated Lot 21`
was buildable. He discussed creek setbacks and habitat restoration,
including a proposal to add ten feet to the creek bank. He noted that
"zero—lot line" designs had been considered for the small lots , but had
been rejected.
Craig Campbell, 4384 wavertree, applicant 's representative, .discussed. a
creek alignment on Lot 215 and the sewer maintenance access road.
�-sy
CP.C. Minutes
March 28 , 1990
Page 3.
Commr. Schmidt reiterated his concern about the need for a new creek
crossing.
Chairperson Duerk was concerned with the use of walls. Mr. Wallace
.discussed the need for sound attentuation and noted the final design phase
would be reviewed. Ms. Duerk asked about a connection from "A" Street to
"C" Street. Mr. Campbell responded, saying it would be too steep. He
discussed the requested sideyard exceptions of 2 feet less then standard.
Chairperson Duerk asked about the type of bridge to be placed over the
creek. Mr. Rossi stated it would be prefabricated, of glulam construction
built off-site. She asked about the low and moderate income housing
effort.
George Moylan, 2684 Johnson, Housing Authority representative, felt the
project was offering them a fair deal and that negotiations with applicant
were going well . He felt the housing was attractive and not isolated from
the rest of the project. He discussed the structure of buying and selling
these units.
Commr. Crotser was concerned with the mixed/multi-use faci.l.ities. Mr.
Wallace discussed the homeowners' vs. city liabilities.
CJohn Chesnut, 314 Higuera, was concerned about the flood control adequacy
of the project. He was also concerned that the grade of the bikepath made
it infeasible to use in some areas.
Brigett Todd, 1126 Wisteria, was concerned about the increased number of
children and where they would go to school, as local schools were already
impacted. Staff responded that the School District would make those site
decisions. Mr. Wallace noted that the development would pay school fees.
Lisa Dylan, 4623 Wevertree, was concerned about the extended bike path
possibly being located along the rear yard of her property.
Judy Neuhauser, Urban Creek Council representative, presented a slide
report concerned with aspects of creek preservation and the inadequacy of
creek improvements and revegetation already performed. She was concerned
with the potential change in the bike path's location and wanted to see thi
path fenced to ensure creek protection. She requested habitat enhancement:
be made and that the permit should be reviewed by the Dept. of Fish & Game
biologists, as well as their administrators. She was concerned about the
smell size of the railroad culvert, felt the development should be
clustered in the flood plain, and advised against moving the creek. She
was also concerned about driveways located under the electrical power
transmission line due to possible health hazards.
Mark Moore, 1328 Ironbark, felt Tract 1376 residents were already adversely
impacting the creek and felt hard surface recre.ation areas should be
provided in the proposed park to mitigate creek use.
P.C. Minutes
March 28, 1990
Page 4.
Susan Graves, 1435 Ironbark, agreed that the creek was- being damaged by
resident use and agreed that hard surface park areas should be built. She
stated people were already hiking on Islay Hili and that the trail system
should be put on hold until the usage was studied.
Adele Stern, 4444 Orcutt, clarified square footage calculations for the
railroad buffer, side yard, and backyard areas. She did not feel anyone
should be within 50 to 100 feet of the railroad.
Herbert Gottesman, 4058 Edna, was concerned with the preservation and
protection of Islay Hill. He felt the trail system should be deferred or
eliminated, mountain bikes should be banned, water tanks should be
screened, and no power lines should be visible against the hill .
Robert Stern, 4444 Orcutt, noted that the power lines have broken in the
past and created fires and he thought houses should not be near them. He
felt the original Specific Plan map was more effective and suggested
eliminating the lots on the hillside to avoid potential problems.
Stuart Greene, 867 Pacific, applicant 's representative, discussed the
timely manner of mitigating problems prior to development, and agreed to
provide hard surface recreation areas and revegetate the creek and areas of
Tract 1376. He discussed the easement covenant .
Don Smith, Vista Lego, felt there were too many questions with the proposed
map and felt the project had been downgraded. He felt there should be an
updated EIR and Specific Plan .for council review.
Chairperson Duerk closed the public hearing.
Commr. Crotser felt the project met the intent of the Specific Plan. He
felt the bike path should remain in the present configuration with
performance standards regarding the vertical separation and landscaping of
the preservation area and bike path. He felt the hillside lots needed
design standards for rear lot fencing, and there should be a 50 foot
setback from slide area boundaries. He was concerned with large houses
being on small sites and wanted design standards regarding yard setbacks
and floor areas. He felt the .railroad buffer area should be mixed use and
opened up and was concerned about health factors related to the power
transmission lines. He agreed with the need for ear-ly provision of hard
surface areas in the park and did not think trails should be placed on
Islay Hill until a need is determined. He wanted to see the buffer areas,
widened.
Commr. Hoffman agreed, stating he wanted to also see a hard edge against
We hillside and elimination of lots on "L" Street. He'- felt the bike path
should remain on the west side of the creek; a 100 foot easement should
exist under power Lines; Phases 3 and 4 small lots needed as much usable
space as possible, and wanted a 100 year flood and slide area study
performed before the lot layout was approved. IJ
P.C. Minutes
March 28 , 1990.
Page 5.
Commr. Karleskint did not agree with connecting streets "A" and "L" . He
agreed with the development of hillside lots and was concerned about people
using the hill without trails. He agreed with the need for hardscapes and
wanted .a well installed for landscaping. He did not want any lots under
power lines.
Commr. Schmidt was concerned with the disparities of what had been approved
on Tract 1376 and what had finally been built. He felt those conditions
had been violated and should be rectified. He felt this final map should
come back for Commission review. ' He also felt that the culverting of Islay
Hill swales should be prohibited; affordable housing should be sold only to
owner-occupants; the lower lot padding should be uniform; the adjacent
hillside development should have a 100' power line easement; the public
road should run along the hill; disclaimers should be included on deeds
concerning land slides end power transmission dangers; bike path bridges
should be free span, and existing improved areas should be revegetated. He
discussed correcting the language of condition 9 regarding PD rezoning;
added Dept. of Fish & Came biologist approval requirements to condition 11 ,
and discussed conditions 38 and 39 regarding hillside standards of the
Specific Plan.
Commr. Crotser moved to approve the vesting tentative tract map, subject to
findings and conditions, amended conditions 3, 9, 11 , 2.3, 35, 38 and 41 , and
added conditions concerning the revegetation of Tract 1376, having a
minimum 100' powerline easement, having park hardscape installed
immediately, deferring installation of trails on Islay Hill , requiring a
minimum 20 ' setback from top of bank for lot lines , and to have the final
map come back for Commission review.
Commr. Karleskint seconded the motion.
Commr. Hoffman felt there were too many questions regarding the open space,
noise buffers, and flooding to approve a subdivision at this time.
Commr. Schmidt stated he could not make the findings because of lack of
conformity with the Specific Plan.
VOTING: AYES - Commrs. Crotser, Karleskint, and Duerk.
NOES - Commrs. Hoffman and Schmidt.
ABSENT - Commr. Kourakis.
The motion passed.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Item 2. Public Hearing: Tract 1841. Consideration of a tentative tract
map creating a 10-unit residential air-space condominium
conversion; 415 North Chorro Street; R-4 zone; Stephen Nelson,
subdivider.
-------- ------------------- -- ------ ---------------------
ADDENDUM
TO THE
EDNA-ISLAY SPECIFIC PLAN
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Aucgnst 1990
i�
EDNA-ISLAY SPECIFIC PLAN EIR ADDENDUM.
G
I. INTRODUCTION
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Background
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Environmental status
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
II. SCOPE
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
III. SPECIFIC PLAN CHANGES AND ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS
. 2
A. Creek habitat
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Bike path relocation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Riparian animal species of concern . . . . . . . . 3
Creek enhancement
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
B. Street alignment
. 6
C. Detention basin modifications
D. Replacement of arivate recreation area with public
RAKk
CE. . Medium-density areas
. 8
F. Railroad•buffer
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
IV. CONCLUSION
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
EXHIBITS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . : . . . . . . . . . i
APPENDIX . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . v
ADDENDUM
C; TO THE
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
FOR THE
EDNA-ISLAY SPECIFIC PLAN
August 1990
I. INTRODUCTION
Background
The original Environmental Impact Report (EIR) for the Edna-Islay
Specific Plan was certified as complete by the City of San Luis
Obispo on February S. 1982. Since then, the owners of the Edna
side have submitted six subdivision maps, constructed about 400
dwellings,and have almost completed development of their land west
of the railroad. A subdivision for the first phase of development
in the Islay area was approved in 1987, and 131 homes have been
built.
Tract 1750, a master tentative subdivision map, subdivides the
remainder of the property on the Islay side. This map divides the
development into six phases, and allows construction of 333
additional homes.
k The adopted specific plan includes provisions that recognize that
when subdivisions within the planning area are submitted, it is
likely that some changes to the specific plan will be requested.
Provisions .on pages 81 and 82 describe what constitutes a "minor"
change versus a "major" change, and authorizes the Community
Development Director to make these determinations. Throughout the
subdivision of the Edna-Islay area the director has approved minor
changes - including phasing changes in both the Edna and Islay
areas. Tract . 1750 includes several minor changes and
interpretations of the specific plan.
Environmental .status
The California Environmental Quality Act exempts specific-planned
residential projects from additional environmental review, except
where changes have taken place that may not have been considered
in the original EIR. An addendum to an EIR is required when "minor
technical changes or additions" will make the EIR adequate under
CEQA. Since the original EIR was adopted, some changes have been
made to the specific plan and additional information is known about
animal species on site. The City Council, on July 3, 1990,
required. that an addendum be prepared to address these changes.
This addendum also includes discussion of the railroad buffer
design, although the design did not technically involve a change
to the specific plan.
7-10
II. SCOPE
This addendum addresses impacts of changes to the specific plan map
And text, as indicated on the tentative tract map .for Tract 1750,
that were determined to be minor by the Community Development
Director. These changes include (and are indicated on the attached
maps) :
Creek habitat changes
* Changes to the bicycle path route
* Riparian animal species of concern
* Planting of creek bank buffer areas
Street alignment changes
The road alignment adjacent to Islay Hill
Flooding concerns
* Size of detention basins
Replacement of private recreation area with public park
* Restoration of the Rodriguez adobe
Design of medium-density areas
* Condominiums and small lots
Railroad buffer design
* Size and design of railroad buffers
III. SPECIFIC PLAN CHANGES AND ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS
A. Creek habitat
Eike path relocation:
Proposed change: The specific plan calls for different
treatments for "creek preservation" and "creek improvement" areas,
as the preservation areas, because of underground springs and other
natural features, have greater wildlife. habitat value than the
improvement areas. The specific plan says that bike paths near
creeks in "creek preservation areas" must be set back .a minimum of
EIR Addendum
Page 2
26 feet from the top of bank (figure 19 -specific plan) .
The proposed neighborhood park plan (off Tank. Farm Road, at the
Orcutt Road intersection, between the two tributaries of the creek)
shows a bicycle/pedestrian path entering the neighborhood park,
meandering south for about 1,000 feet, then crossing the creek
westerly to continue along the rear of existing lots. The path
crosses the creek farther south than shown on the specific plan map
(see exhibits A and B) .. The southerly portion of the path intrudes
into a "creek preservation area".
An adjustment in the street alignment within Tract 1376, the
previous subdivision in this area, led to the need to cross the
creek farther south than shown on the specific plan map.
To strengthen the original mitigation measures in the vicinity of
the path, the project description has been revised to include
additional fencing and planting, to further buffer the creek
habitat from the path. The ultimate alignment of the path may be
dictated by specific recommendations coming from a "turtle habitat
study", discussed below:
Riparian animal species of concern:
When the original EIR was adopted, there were no rare or endangered
species identified within the project site. To date, no species
at the site have been listed as rare or endangered. However, the
n EIR listed two animal species as expected to live at the site which
are undergoing closer study by experts and state and federal
� officials. The Western Pond Turtle (Clemmys marmorata pallida) and
the California Red-legged Frog (Rana aurora draytoni) have since
been listed as class 2 Candidate species for "threatened or
endangered" status, by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and as
"species of special concern" by the California Department of Fish
and Game (DFG) . Evidence of these species has been found at the
site. The number of turtles and frogs at the site is unknown.
However, it is expected that the two species essentially share the
same habitat.
Environmental effects:
The proposed bicycle/pedestrian path enters an area near where
Western Pond Turtles and the Red-legged Frogs have been observed,
and which may be suitable habitat for the two . species. Human
intrusion and domestic animal predation in this area could have a
detrimental effect on these and other sensitive species' :nesting
and foraging activities.
Because of these concerns, the project description has been
modified to include funding for a turtle habitat study and
subsequent modifications to the map, including removal of the
EIR Addendum
Page 3
,�Co�
I
bicycle/pedestrian path in this area, if necessary.
The DFG has reviewed the amended project and its potential effects
on the riparian animal species noted above and is recommending
approval of the map, with the added study, provided three
conditions are incorporated into map approval. The recommended
project conditions now include the DFG recommendations as part of
the conditions requiring the turtle study (see letter from DFG,
incorporated in this report as Exhibit C) :
* A team shall be established to select a consultant and monitor
a turtle habitat study. The team shall be made up of
representatives of the Department of Fish and Game, the San
Luis Obispo Urban Creeks Council, the Community Development
Department, and the project applicant.
The team shall assist the city in selecting a qualified
consultant to conduct a turtle habitat study. The turtle
study should focus,,on the following goals:
a. Identify the essential habitat for the turtles (and by
extension, the frogs) .
b. Determine the sizes of the turtle populations on site,
age and sex characteristics, and attempt to. identify
nesting areas.
C. Identify specific essential habitat preservation areas,
if any, within the area designated as lots 184 through
206 on the tentative map, which should be incorporated
into the final project design.
d. Recommend any additional habitat protection techniques
to be incorporated into the final project design.
Funding, not to exceed $10,000, shall be provided by the
applicant. The study period will continue for a maximum of
24 months, with a 27-month time limitation for both the study
and determination of implementation measures to be required
of the developer. The study period is to begin when the
consultant is hired and begins work. Where a consensus or
majority decision cannot be reached within the study team, the
Community Development Director shall make the decision.
No work, except for temporary improvements that limit human
access to the riparian habitat, shall be conducted within the
study area, as defined on the. Creek Concepts Plan approved as
part of this subdivision, prior to completion of the turtle
habitat study. Any need for additional environmental review
prior to approval of the final maps for phases 5 and 6 is to
EIR Addendum
Page 4
7-G 3
be determined by the Community Development Director, and is
C� subject to normal appeal procedures. All necessary studies,
enhancement measures, and site changes shall :be identified
prior to the recordation of final maps for phases 5 and 6.
The site design of lots 184through 206 and the adjacent
streets will be adjusted in conformance with the
recommendations of the turtle habitat study and to the
satisfaction of the Community Development Director and the
California Department of Fish and Game.
* The top-of-bank buffer improvements adjacent to the turtle
habitat shall be installed as soon as possible to . provide
immediate protection of the existing riparian habitat.
Original Mitigation Measures:
The original EIR recognized the possible impacts on riparian animal
species and recommended, in addition to the twenty-foot-wide buffer
area proposed in the specific plan, two mitigation measures
relating to the riparian areas:
* Areas of the southern tributary to San Luis Obispo Creek
should be revegetated with native riparian species including
willow, sycamore, and elderberry.
* Stream crossings should be accomplished via bridges rather
C! than culverts.
These mitigation measures are incorporated into the project design.
To strengthen themeasures, the following is recommended:
Mitigation measure enhancement:
1. No significant deviation from the original mitigation measures
to protect the on-site creek shall be allowed, unless
specifically identified in this addendum or in the
recommendations of the turtle habitat study, as approved by
the Community Development Director.
Creek enhancement
PrOROsed. .chanae: The specific plan calls for different minimum
buffers for creek improvement and creek preservation areas. The
creek improvement areas are required to be regraded (as necessary) '
and replanted with indigenous species. The creek preservation
areas, on the other hand, are required to be planted only between
the top of bank and the adjacent residential yards, park, or
pathways. Planting was to be done at the time each phase including
a creek was developed.
EIR Addendum
Page S
The proposed planting, shown on the "Creek Concepts Plan", which
is a part of Tract 1750, includes planting preservation area banks .
as well as improvement area banks, to maintain their habitat value.
The plan also calls for completion of the planting with the first
phase of development, to allow earlier establishment of plants.
All buffer dimensions required in the specific plan are met or
exceeded. Some buffer areas include non-planted strips, up to 100
feet wide, in addition to the 20'-wide planted areas. The non-
planted areas serve as uphill open spaces, to be available for
nesting sites for the turtles and general wildlife foraging.
Environmental effects:
The proposed changes exceed the minimum standards for protection
of wildlife specified in the specific plan. No adverse
environmental effects are expected from these changes.
H. street alignment
The specific plan calls for street to define the open space area
on the east side of Islay Hill, whereas the developer wants to
place lots in this location. Also, the lots are higher in
elevation than the road as shown on the specific plan map.
Environmental effects
Landslide potential: A soils and geology report was completed for
the proposed development. This report identifies no landslides in
the vicinity of these lots.
Visual impacts: The homes built on these lots will be visible by
both short- and long-range viewers. Visual impacts should be
considered in comparison with those expected from implementation
of the specific plan map. The change would result in homes farther
up the northeasterly hillside, and farther down the northwesterly .
hillside than the specific plan map shows. The amount of hillside
area left as open space. would be slightly greater than shown on the
specific plan map. The original EIR identified visual impacts as
an impact of homes against the hillside.
Short-range viewers: Recreational viewers on the nearest public
street to the hillside would be affected by the view of homes,
landscaping, and fencing that would interfere with open views of
the hillside.
Long-range viewers: The visual impacts from a distance are
expected to be insignificant, as the degree of development on the
hillside will remain approximately the same as called for in the
EIR Addendum
Page 6
O specific plan originally.
Mitigation of impacts
The specific plan includes, standards for all development on
hillsides. These standards closely resemble the city's hillside
standards, which are incorporated into the Land Use Element. In
addition to these standards, the following is recommended:.
Mitigation measure enhancement:
2. Homes adjacent to the Islay Hill open space shall be built
close to the street. Streetyard exceptions will .be encouraged
where no safety concerns result. No solid fencing shall be
allowed in the rear yards, beyond 20' from the rear of the
homes.
C. Detention basin modifications
Proposed change:
The proposed detention basins are smaller in total capacity than
the specific plan requires. The original FISP hydrology study
called for two basins totalling 29 acre-feet (AF) in the Islay side
of the Edna-Islay area. After adoption of the specific plan, the
original engineer developed more precise calculations, resulting
O in a total storage volume requirement of. 14 AF, with the larger
basin .being located on the southeasterly portion of the site.
The proposed two basins contain a total capacity of 25 AF. The
arrangement and design of the basins has been analysed in
accordance with specific plan design criteria, and found to be
adequate by the project engineer.
Environmental effects:.
If the basins are smaller than needed, the surrounding area will
flood in heavy rains, resulting .in damage to homes and temporary
loss of wildlife habitat.
The design of the proposed detention basins has been reviewed by
the original hydraulic engineer for the specific plan, under
contract with the city. This review found that the proposed
detention basins are adequate. No additional mitigation is
required.
D. Replacement of private recreation area with Public_park
The specific plan EIR says that the Rodriguez adobe should be
looked at more carefully at the time of subdivision, to determine
EIR Addendum
O Page 7
its historical value. The specific plan itself does not address
the adobe at all. The adobe has now been determined to be
historically significant, and worthy of restoration. The applicant
is proposing an offer of a one-acre park containing the adobe, in
lieu of an approximately 1.8-acre private recreation area located
approximately where the detention basin is shown on the tract map.
The private recreation area was included in the specific plan as
a means to utilize a low area, and to provide distance between the
railroad tracks and homes, alleviating noise concerns. The.
recreation area was expected to be a tennis club or similar private
activity, available to residents of the area. The area would
provide recreational opportunities to the neighborhood, in addition
to the neighborhood park and trails system.
The adobe park, as proposed, would be a small public park,
available to all citizens but designed primarily for use by the
neighborhood. It would provide a building suitable .for a variety
of activities, the range of which would be limited by the size of
the building and grounds, availability of parking, and the degree
to which the adobe can be restored.
Environmental effects:
Noise: The change results in placement of a detention basin in
the general area of the private recreation area. The detention
basin is smaller than the private recreation area, and therefore - ,,,—,
homes will be placed closer to the tracks than shown in the
specific plan. Noise from the railroad could have a detrimental
effect on these homes, if unprotected. Noise impacts are mitigated
in conformance with specific plan standards. . No significant
impacts are expected to result from this change. (See also
discussion on railroad buffer area. )
Recreational opportunities: The replacement of a private
recreational area with a public recreational area still affords
recreational opportunities for the neighborhood. Since the adobe
park is to be public, it will be available to all citizens at no
cost. The subdivision also includes a private recreation area
within the condominium development, which includes a pool and
recreation building. The combination of public park and private
recreational facilities is equal in area to the specific-planned
private recreation area. Therefore, there will be no deficit.
E. Medium-density areas
The specific plan shows two distinct medium-density areas: one
near the railroad tracks and Tank Farm Road, the other
southeasterly of the first. The proposal includes two adjacent
medium-density areas: a condominium development near Tank Farm
EIR Addendum
Page a
Road, and a larger medium-density area extending southerly from the
CI first, proposed to be rezoned R-1-PD. The second area is composed
of smaller lots than are normally required in the R-1 zone.
Environmental effects:
The density proposed for the "small lot" subdivision is slightly
higher than R-1 density, and therefore qualifies as medium-
density. This proposal differs from the. standard lots developed
as part of Tract .1376, as well as from the condominium proposal
that is part of Tract 1750. The smaller lots will provide adequate
area for small yards (the average lot is approximately 5,000 square
feet) and homes smaller than the average in Tract 1376.
Because of their smaller size, the homes on these lots should
appeal to a different market than the Tract 1376 homes - retired
couples, small families, buyers of "first" homes. The overall
density resulting from the small lots is approximately the same as
anticipated in the specific plan.
The proposal to provide this type of housing, in addition to the
standard-size lots, the condominiums, the apartments, and the
larger custom lots, is consistent with the specific plan's goal to
provide a variety of housing, approximating the city as a whole.
No significant environmental effects will result from the change
from standard single-family lots plus medium-density clustered
housing, to smaller lots.
P. Railroad buffer
The specific plan guidelines for the railroad buffer provide
several "concepts" of noise and visual buffers. Different concepts
are to be used in different locations, depending on topography and
distance of homes from the railroad.
Tract 1750 provides noise attenuation primarily through the use of
sound walls, up to 6.5' high, on residential lots closest to the
railroad. Portions of the proposed buffer are narrower than called
for in the specific plan. However, the specific plan (page 31)
says, "Other combinations of barriers may also be built as long as
they are equal to or better than those described above and are
visually acceptable to the city. " This alternative design, then,
is not a change to the specific plan. It is included in this
addendum for completeness.
EIR Addendum ^
Page 9
Environmental effects:
Noise: A noise study has been completed that identifies no
significant noise impacts from the railroad buffer as proposed.
Visual impacts: The proposal includes planting of heavy vegetation
in the buffer areas, similar to the specific plan guidelines. The
primary difference is in the depth of planting. The difference is
not judged to be significant.
Recommendation
3 . To assure consistency with the. specific plan, the City Council
should find, in its action approving Tract 1750, that the
proposed use of sound walls perform equally or better than the
concept shown in the specific plan, and that the wall is
visually acceptable.
IV. CONCLUSION
The changes to the certified EIR discussed above do not raise
important new issues about the significant effects on the
environment. The following recommendations assure consistency with
the goals of the Edna-Islay Specific Plan:
1. No significant deviation from the original mitigation measures .
to protect the on-site creek shall be allowed, unless
specifically identified in this addendum or in the
recommendations of the turtle habitat study, as approved by
the Community Development Director.
2. Homes adjacent to the Islay Hill open space shall be built
close to the street. Streetyard exceptions will be encouraged
where no safety concerns result. No solid fencing shall be
allowed in the rear yards, beyond 20' from the rear of the
homes:
3 . To assure consistency with the specific plan, the City Council
should find, in its action approving Tract 1750, that the
proposed use of sound walls perform equally or better than the
concept shown in the specific plan, and that the wall is
visually acceptable.
EIR Addendum
Page 10
i
7-69
EXHIBITS
CA. Original Specific Plan map
B. Tentative Tract 1750 map
C. Letter from Department of Fish and Game
EIR Addendum
Page i
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STATE OF CALMNIA-TNE RESOMCE,S_AOENV OEOROE DH MUZAK Gammm
DEPARTMENT OF FISH AND GAME
POST OFM Box n June 41 19901
YOUNTIAUL CAUFORNIA U399
(70� 91f3300
Mr. Craig Campbell
John L. Wallace & Associates
1458 Higuera Street
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Dear Mr. Campbell :
The Arbors at Islay Kill
Vesting Tentative Map No. 1750
City of San Luis Obispo
We have reviewed the propossed Tentative Tract 1750 "Creek
Treatment Concept. Flan" and your comments regarding the protection
of the Southwestern Pond Turtle and Red Legged Frog colonies which
the plan addresses.
The Department of Fish and Game approves of the "Creek Treatment
Concept Plan, " provided the following are incorporated into the
conditions of approval of the tentative map.
1. The site design of lots 184 through 206 and the adjacent
streets will be adjusted in conformance with the results of
the south western pond turtle study and to the satisfaction of
the Community Development Director and the California
Department of Fish and Game.
2. All necessary studies, mitigation measures, and site changes
shall be identified prior to the recordation of final maps for
phases 5 and 6.
3. The top-of-bank buffer improvements adjacent to the turtle
habitat shall be installed as soon as possible to provide
immediate protection for the existing turtle population.
The final wording of the above conditions of approval of the
tentative map shall be approved by the California Department of
Fish and Game prior to approval of the map by the City of San Luis
Obispo.
If you have any questions regarding our comments, please contact
Theodore Wooster, Environmental Services Supervisor, at ( 707)
944-5524.
sincerely,
Brian Hunter
Regional Manager
Region 3
�-�3
t
OAPPENDIX
CEQA Sections 15162 - 15164: Subsequent EIR, supplement to an EIR,
and addendum requirements
Specific plan excerpts:
Figure 18 (Creek improvement area standards)
Figure 19 (Creek preservation area standards)
Hillside development standards
Land Use Element excerpts:
Hillside standards
Noise study
Excerpt from Federal. Register showing listing of frog and turtle
as candidate species
Letter from Dan Holland, 5 June 1990
C
ARC Minutes
April 16, 1990
Page 9
Commr. Cooper seconded the motion.
AYES: Chatham, Cooper, Bradford, Gates,. Underwood, Phillips, Morris.
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
The motion passes.
5. ARC 89-76: 1105 Tank Farm Road; new 88-unit residential air-space
condominium project and 20-unit apartment project; R-2-SP-PD zoning pending.
Judith Lautner, Associate Planner, presented the staff report recommending schematic
approval-
Craig Campbell, representative, responded to the staff report and explained the
project, including the affordable housing component. He indicated he had tried for a
single-family look.for the units. He displayed a view from Tank Farm Road and
indicated he had maintained the general slope.
Michael Cripe, landscape designer, explained how the walkways were proposed and
indicated he could create walkways into the project near the driveways.
Larry Robbins, architect, suggested relocating the bathroom to have the den in the
center of the unit. He felt the roofs corners could be clipped. He described the
apartment concept.
Craig Campbell indicated he could provide three more parking spaces for the
apartments but it would be difficult to do the same for the condominiums since the
site was sloped and hard to fit. He pointed out how plentiful street parking was.
George Moylan, Housing Authority, felt lots of open space was provided in the design
and felt the applicant was in effect donating between.13 to 1.5 million dollars to the
city. He briefly explained how the 23 affordable units would be used by the Housing
Authority.
Commr. Gates liked the general design of the project but felt it was similar to the
Margarita condominiums, which she felt seemed tight.. She was concerned there may "
not be enough light entering the units. She questioned why a traffic barrier was
proposed and preferred that it not be used as it could be confusing. She felt parking
7'7S
ARC Minutes
April 16, 1990
Page 10
needed to be dispersed bursed more evenly through the project. She felt the tot lot
needed a bathroom. She suggested adding a powder room on the living room level
of the apartments. She preferred a duplex design.
Commr. Chatham generally supported the project and liked the appearance of the
units from the street. He thought there were a lot of sidewalks but wasn't sure what
to do differently. He supported schematic approval.
Commr. Phillips was concerned with the garages but did not have a solution to the
problem. She was concerned there would be too many people navigating out of
garages at the same time and felt there needed to be some focused big spaces
proposed. She supported providing low cost housing.
Commr. Underwood also supported the low-cost housing aspect of the project. He
was concerned about the proposed fencing between the apartments and the condos.
He felt turning the houses towards the green was a good idea but would not work in
this case. He felt proposed parking would result in an alley of cars. He thought the
scale of the buildings was too large and that parking needed to be scattered with
pockets of landscaping provided.
Commr. Cooper felt the project looked similar to a two-story version of Los Verdes
Park. He had mixed feelings about the parking and could almost support parking
being viewed from the Ironbark area He suggested the possibility of staggering the
buildings to create view corridors and did not want the buildings to look like the Alta
Vista.Park condos. He felt a model would be helpful to explain the project. He
suggested varying the colors and detailing and using duplexes, triplexes, and
fourplexes.
Commr. Bradford felt the units should'have been built closer to the'park. She felt
the project was totally oriented for cars and that the proposed units were not the
same scale as the homes. She thought there should be a pedestrian walkways over
the entire project including from Ironbark Street and to the pool area and additional
parking was needed on both sides of the project. She wanted the traffic barrier
eliminated. She suggested adding storage areas to the apartments and adding
meaningful private open space that could include patios, clotheslines, and garden
areas. She also wanted bike lockers installed. She wanted the dens reduced in size
so a small deck could be added. She was concerned that the roof decks looked out
onto the driveway.
Commr. Morris was concerned about the alley having no proposed landscaping and
the decks looking into the alley. He felt the units could possibly be turned around to
eliminate this concern. He also thought the apartments couldbe broken up into
duplexes and triplexes. He liked the proposed tree choices, but noted that at the
ARC Minutes
April 16, 1990
Page 11
beginning only the wall would be visible. He thought that parking needed to be
distributed better. He liked the architectural style.
Larry Robins indicated he would prefer to keep the traffic blockades. He also
suggested a change to the garages.
Craig Campbell felt it was possible to provided pedestrian access and stagger the
buildings.
Michael Cripe preferred not to break up the units any more than they.were now
proposed. He felt larger planting areas would be difficult to provide by having
duplexes. He said the fence between the apartments and condos is to limit
maintenance and ownership concern.
Commr. Bradford suggested bringing the buildings together in the middle of the site.
Commr. Morris felt the representative had made a nice presentation but suggested he-
walk through the Margarita condos. He wanted to see a model of the section.
Commr. Bradford moved to continue consideration of the project with direction to
provide alternative arrangements of the buildings on the site, larger open space areas,
adding several amenities to the apartments, provision of pedestrian access from
Ironbark Street, and for parking spaces to be distributed more evenly throughout the
complex.
Commr. Phillips seconded the motion.
AYES: Bradford, Phillips, Gates. Chatham, Morris, Underwood, Cooper
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
The motion passes.
SIGNS:
A. SA4173: 894 Monterey Street; signing for Kinko's Copies; C-C-H zone.
Judith Lautner, Associate Planner, presented the staff report, recommending approval
of the Monterey Street awning with canvas instead of plastic material and elimination
} of the internal illumination.
i
ARC Minutes
May 14, 1990
Page 11
The motion passes.
Commr. Morris returned to the meeting.
9. ARC 89-76: 1107 Tank Farm Road; new 88-unit residential air-space
condominium; R-2-SP-PD zoning pending; schematic review.
Jeff Hook, Associate Planner, presented the staff report recommending schematic
approval.
Craig Campbell, Larry Robbins, and Michael Cripe, representatives, responded to the
staff report and explained the project, requesting final approval.
George Moylen, Housing Authority, stated that 1.1 to 12 car parking spaces per unit
were proposed, not 1.5 spaces as indicated. He felt this would be adequate. He was
opposed to providing outdoor bathrooms and clotheslines. He had no strong feelings
Cabout the fence between the two projects.
Commr. Underwood liked the revised project better but noted his main concern was
still with the alleyway. He felt the architecture looked good. He suggested shifting
the garages facing Ironbark so that garage pairs alternate by rows.
Commr. Gates was concerned with safety due to poor sight distance at the
intersection of the alleys and driveways. She wanted triolexes used instead of four-
flexes, She felt the project was too dense and that more landscaping was needed in
the Housing Authority parking lot.
Commr. Phillips supported the project as is but with more pedestrian lighting in the
Housing Authority parking area.
Commr. Cooper wanted a strong directory signage program developed, possibly tied to
the color scheme. He also wanted a noise buffer developed around the recreation
room and pool area. He wanted to see a rain.shelter provided at the entries or
transition from garage. He agreed with reducing the parking for the Housing
Authority project from 13 to 1.1 and suggested staggering the garages by a half-bay
horizontally.
Commr. Chatham wanted sold fencing installed adjacent to the apartments and
suggested omitting the outside bathroom. He wanted textured paving used in the
driveway.
Ci
7.0
ARC Minutes
May 14, 1990
Page 12
Commr. Morris agreed with Commr. Underwood's suggestion of.alternating the
garages. He wanted the planting palette individualized in each quad or court and
omitting the fearing around the project which he felt would be incompatible with the -
neighborhood. He suggested adding canopy planting in the parking lot. He
supported reducing the parking to 1.1 parking spaces.
Commr. Cooper moved to grant schematic approval with direction to increase open
space, reduce amount of fencing, improve pedestrian access, and to relive the visual
monotony of long rows of garages facing the central private driveway.
Commr. Chatham seconded the motion.
AYES: Cooper, Chatham, Morris, Phillips, Underwood
NOES: Gates
ABSENT: Bradford
The motion passes.
10. ARC 90-39: 864 Santa Rosa Street; remodel city recreation building; PF zone;
final review.
Jeff Hook, Associate Planner, presented the staff report recommending final approval.
Don West, representative, responded to the staff report and explained the project.
He noted there were no changes proposed since the last time the commission
approved the project.
Commr. Phillips supported the project.
Commr. Gates wanted the base color 2 omitted and base color 1 used as the body
color. She also wanted the other colors used as accents. She was concerned that the
apricot color be selected so that it was not too bright.
Commr. Cooper felt the colors should be simplified to unify the building's design. He
suggested widening the chimney.
Commrs. Chatham and Underwood supported final approval, .:
Commr. Morris agreed with Commr. Gates on colors. He wanted to see a
landscaping plan more in keeping with the architectural period of the building.
MINUTES
SAN LUIS OBISPO
CULTURAL HERITAGE COMMITTEE
Regular Meeting of April 23, 1990
Meeting convened at 630 p.m.
Present: Chairperson Jerry Michael, Gloria Heinz, Priscilla Graham, Mark
Hall-Patton, Wendy Waldron, Leo Pinard, Bruce Sievertson, Dan
Krieger.
Absent: None
Staff: Terry Sanville, Principal Planner
Others: Loal Lorenzen, Lesa Carlsen, Craig Campbell, Carol Florence
On motion of Hall-Patton, seconded by Graham, and on a unanimous voice vote, the
minutes of March 26, 1990 were approved as amended.
ACTION ITEMS
1. Election of Officers
By unanimous voice vote, the CHC elected Bruce Sievertson as Chairperson and Jerry
Michael as Vice-Chairperson.
2. Continued Ranking of Historic Properties
The CHC completed its ranking of properties listed on pages 7 through 9 of the tally
sheets. Mark Hall-Patton reported that he had looked at the house at 2959 Broad street
and determined that it was "not significant."
3. Comment on Preservation Strategy of the Rodriguez Adobe.
Terry Sanville introduced the project. Representatives of.Pacifica Corporation and their
engineers and landscape architects were present to answer questions and respond to CHC
concerns.
After discussion, on motion by Jerry Michael, seconded by Mark Hall-Patton, the CHC
moved to forward the following recommendations on to the City Council:
1. Prior to any grading or installation of subdivision improvements in the area, a
historic archaeologist should be hired to evaluate the Rodriquez Adobe site,research
and identify any historic archaeological resources in the area.
2. Prior to any grading or the installation of subdivision improvements, the
developer should take"archival quality"photographs of the Rodriquez Adobe(minus
' the chain link fence) and make them available to the city.
?meg(
Page 2 — CHC Minutes: April 23, 1990
The purpose of the photographs is to record thepre-restoration condition of the
structure as well as capture its historic rural "pre-development" setting.
3. Prior to construction, the design of the dwellings that front the local loop street
bordering the park should be reviewed by the CHC. This review is to address the
concern that bulky two-story dwellings, as a backdrop to the adobe, may overpower
the historic building and adversely affect its historic character and setting.
4. The RFP for future consultant services should be changed (re Introduction
section, second paragraph) to "require" that the consultants be experts in the
restoration of historic adobes. (The RFP currently indicates that this expertise is
"highly desirable.")
5. The landscaping of the adobe should be in keeping with its historic character
and importance.
6. The developer should be required to provide alternative water supplies to use
for the landscaping of the adobe grounds and park.
(Motioned Passed 7 to 1.)
4. Annual Report
By general consent, the CHC approved the draft of the CHC Annual Report with the
including a suggestion by Priscilla.Graham that the report note that the city is distributing
copies of the Old House Journal and Historic Preservation to the City/County Library.
S. Subcommittee Reports
A. Historic Plaque Subcommittee
Mark Hall-Patton reported on the meeting of the subcommittee to discuss the
administration of the program. The subcommittee scheduled a meeting on Monday,
May 79 1990 at 10:00 a.m. at the County Museum to iron out the administrative
details.
B. Archaeological Subcommittee
Terry Sanville reported that the City Administrative Officer had signed the contract
with Betsy Bertrando and that the archaelogical resource inventory study was
underway.
Page 3 — CHC Minutes: April 23, 1990
City Council Minutes Page 5
CWednesday, June 6, 1990 - 7:00 p.m. /
C-17 PIIBLIC ART SELECTION (File No. 477) . '
Council considered the public art selection for the Marsh Street parking
. structure at the corner of Marsh and Chorro Streets.
Roved by Roalman/Pinard (5-0) the selection of ceramic medallions created by
Michelle Griffoul confirmed and CAO authorised to enter into a contract (A49-
90-CC) with Ms.- Giffoul in an amount not to exceed $9,000.00 as recommended.
C-18 RECYCLING SILL (File-No. 481)
Council considerState Assembly Bill 4298 which proposes to relieve beverage
container maanYacturers from paying processing fee provision of the state s
beverage.etintainer recycling and litter reduction act.
ed by RoalmanlPinard (5-0) Resolution No. 6818 adopted opposing Assembly
Bill 4298 as recommended.
PMMIC BEARINGS
1. TENTATIVE NAP - EDNA-ISLAY SPECIFIC PLAN (File No. 410)
council held a public hearing to consider a vesting tentative map for Tract
1750 creating a 251-lot residential subdivision and an 88-unit residential
airspace condominium within the Edna-Islay Specific Plan area; 1107 Tank Farm
Road; R-1-SP, and C/OS-40; Pacifica Corporation, subdivider (continued from
5/1/90).
Arnold Jonas, Community Development Director, briefly reviewed the agenda.
report with the recommendation that Council open the public hearing, take
public testimony for a couple of hours, and continue the hearing to the July
3, 1990 Council meeting, with direction for clarifying any specific issues or
concerns identified this evening. The recommended action at that time would
be to adopt the resolution with amended conditions, if any, and introduce an
ordinance to print approving the planned develpment rezoning.
Councilwoman Pinard felt that the proposal should go through the Transit
Manager to look at layout and accessibility for bus transportation.
Councilman Roalman expressed a concern whether the Specific Plan should have
been amended when the bikeway path issue was changed.
Major.Dunin declared the public hearing open.
Mr. Ed Lorenzo, Pacifica Corporation, reviewed the history of the project and
the plans for the proposal emphasising it provide more affordable housing than
required, restoration of the historical adobe, creek restoration, considerable
open space, and 9.8 acres of park.
John Wallace, Wallace 8 Associates, representing the Pacifica Corporation,
provided a slide presentation of the project.
Beverly Raves, representing Payak, Inc., read a letter into the record dated
June 6, 1990, stating that the environmental impact report prepared for the
original Edna-Islay Specific Plan, was not adequate for the proposed. City /N
I
Council Minutes Page 6
Wednesday, June 61 1990 - 7:00 p.m.
development. A subsequent or expanded EIR should be prepared before project
approval. She felt that a significant change to the project was the proposed
routing of a bicycle and pedestrian pathway through a natural preserve, which
included sensitive riparian habitat. Further,there were three candidate
endangered species on the site, that of the Pacific Pond Turtle, Red Legged
Frog and Two-striped Garter Snake.
Judy Newhauser submitted a letter into the record on behalf of the Urban
Creeks Council urging requirement of an amendment to the environmental impact
report prepared for the .Edna-Islay Specific Plan.
Richie Ray Walker, 28 La Entrada, was opposed to the project, particularly in
light of drought.
Adele Stern, 4444 Orcutt Road, was concerned about where the houses were to be
built on the east side of Islay Hill, the drainage basin, the open space
easement on Islay Kill, and the exception for the buffer sone to provide
mitigation of noise.
Mr. John Chestnut, 314 Higuera, spoke to the credibility of the turtle study
offer.
Robert Stern, 4444 Orcutt Road, supported the staff recommendation, but was
concerned that any buildings not occur any higher on the Islay hillside than
originally proposed.
Peter Miller, attorney representing Northland's N.T., took exception to some
comments made by Mr. Chestnut.
Brett Cross, 1217 Nariner's Cove, spoke in opposition of the project, felt it
would hurt air quality and traffic circulation. He felt the project should
have an environmental impact report.
Melanie Eillia, former Councilmember, felt that another meeting to discuss
this project was in order, that there was too much information still not
available.
George Movian, Housing Authority, supported the project.
Mayor Dunin closed the public portion of the meeting.
Councilwoman RaDva suggested that staff look at CEQA compliance, new detention
basins, and prepare an analysis for matching fund grants for the adobe prior
to this item coming back to the Council.
Councilman Roalman asked staff to report back on whether the Specific Plan
changes should have required public hearings.
After discussion, moved by Raova/Reiss (5-0) to continue the public hearing to
date certain July 31 1990.
9:20 p.m., Mayor Dunin declared a recess; 9:30 p.m., City Council reconvened,
all Councilmembers present.
I
G Connc Minutes Page 3
Tuesday, my 3, 1990 - 7s00 p.m.
oversized ve 'cles, and conversion of loading sones to short term parking when
possible. Coun 1 ::on
language in the plan to require additional analysis
be conducted prio to committing the Council to selecting a third parking site
in the southern end the City. (lotion carried.
COUNCIL LIAISON REPORTS
L.R.1 - Councilwoman Raooa eviewed the survey results prepared for the
SLO Area Coordinating Council by wnsend & Company, J. Moore Methods, and
D.J. Smith Associates on voter opin s is San Luis Obispo County.
Item received and filed.
L.R.2 - Councilwoman Raooa requested Coun reaffirm the establishment of
a Citizen's Advisory Committee to review and mak recommendations for a
Downtown Revitalization Master Plan.
Moved by Ravna/Dunin (5-0) that the City Administrative fiver be directed to
recommend a list of qualified applicants to the Council fo appointment to a
newly established C.A.C. by August 1, 1990.
Z
PUBLIC BEARINOS
1. EDNA-ISLAM SPECIFIC PLAA (File No. 410)
J Council considered its continued public hearing to approve a vesting tentative
map for Tract 1750, creating a 251-lot residential subdivision and an 88-unit
residential air-space condominium within the Edna-Islay Specific plan area;
1107 Tank Farm Road; R-1-SP and C/OS-40 sones; Pacifica Corporation,
subdivider (continued from 5/1/90, 6/6/90, and 6/18/90).
Arnold Jonas, Community Development Director, reviewed the agenda report and
made the following recommendations: 1) review additional information
requested by Councilmembers on the 6/6/90 meeting; and 2) direct staff to
prepare an addendum and/or supplement to the certified environmental impact
report for the Edna-Islay Specific Plan to address minor changes to the
Specific Plan and impacts of the proposed development on the Western Pond
Turtles and other animals on site, and return to Council for action. on the
project application after work is completed.
Mayor Dunin declared the public hearing open.
Loal Lorenzen, Pacifica Corporation, reviewed the project, addressed a variety
of mitigation efforts, and urged support.
John Wallace, Wallace and Associates, reviewed the items for which Council had
previously requested additional information, and provided argument for use of
an addendum to the EIR rather than a supplement.
Roger P-iccust, Attorney representing the applicant, 1104 Palm Street, urged
against. Council requiring a supplement to the EIR as he felt it would be City
Council Minutes Page 4
Tuesday, July 31 1990 - 7:00 p.m. \I
redundant. He supported the use of an addendum to update the.previously
certified EIR.
Ritchie Ray Walker, 28 La Entrada, was concerned that the project not go ahead
due to the drought.
Enrico Songio, also opposed the project at this time.
Adele Stern, 4444 Orcutt Road, seas concerned about density issues and
development on Islay Hill.
Cheryl Hoffman, 887 Capistrano, was concerned that no approval be granted
until all mitigation measures were taken. She urged denial of the tract map.
George Moylan of the Housing Authority, spoke in support of the project and
the benefits it would provide for low income housing.
Phil Ashiv, expressed concerns about the bikelanes, would like a better
playing field for the children and, urged mitigation to protect the wildlife
on Islay Hill.
Charlie Waldewain, Woodside Drive, urged the Council to study the turtle
habitat prior to allowing approval of the project.
Paul Taylor, biologist for Pacifica Corporation, spoke to the concerns raised
about the turtle habitat.
Robert Stern, 4444 Orcutt, stated that the ecosystem of the "site is of
concern.
Mayor Dunin closed the public hearing.
9:35 p.m., Mayor-Dunin declared a recess. 9:40 p.m., City Council reconvened,
all Councilmembers present.
Councilwoman Pinard did not think the project fits the character of San Luis
Obispo. Prior vegetation had not been maintained as required and, the walls
proposed for the project also were not in keeping with the City•s character
and her visions for what the project should look like.
Councilwoman Randa felt that an addendum should be provided for the EIR,
specifically: the issue of the bike path, road alignment on the upper
hillside, habitat, and detention basins be confirmed by the engineer on the
project. She reminded the Council that the changes made to Tract 1376 were
made by the City. She felt that preservation of the adobe on-site is
important, and that the Edna area includes a housing mixture that works.
Councilman Roalman felt that, although the project offered many excellant
amenities, enough issues had been raised to support an expanded Environmental
Impact Report. He commented that environmental concerns outweighed housing �w j
concerns in this case.
7490
ti
City council Minutes Page 5
Tuesday, July 3, 1990 - 7:00 p.m.
i
Councilman Reiss still had concerns regarding the creek habitat. He would
like to seethe developers start on the remedial activities as soon as
practical and, would require an addendum but not a supplement. He felt that
the affordable housing that the project would provide was extremely critical.
Mayor Dunin spoke in support of the project. He would support pulling of the
bike path plan portion for additional review if it was necessary. Islay Hill
should be used in a passive manner rather than active.
After discussion, moved by Ranoa/Reiss, (3-2, Councilmembers Pinard and
Roalman voting no) to direct staff to prepare an addendum to the -Environmental
Impact Report for Tract 1750 for Council approval, and include necessary
findings and mitigation measures to identify previous and proposed changes to
the specific plan, to include but not be limited to the creek preservation
area, the bike plan which now encroaches into the area, the habitat and
respective species as well as mitigation necessary to protect those species;
road alignments as proposed by the applicant and a confirmation of the
detention basins by the original engineer; and that theaddendum return to the
Council with the necessary findings. Motion carried.
Councilwoman Pinard urged that staff include in the addendum a review of the
access onto Orcutt Road as it relates to safety.
Moved by Roalman/Pinard (2-3, Councilmembers Reiss, Rappa and Dunin voting no)
`i
that the addendum include water availability, air quality and solid waste.
Motion failed.
Councilwoman RA2pa also requested that some temporary fencing be installed.
Upon general concensus Mayor Ounin authorised to write letter to the School
District requesting status and time frame of new school site on Orcutt Road.
2. &PEAL-PLANNING COMISSION - DEL NORTE WAY (File No. 407)
Council held a c hearing to consider as appeal by Martin & Steele of a.
Planning Commission a n to deny a request to allow reduced street - yard
setback from 20 feet to 1 feet for a carport at 132 Del Norte Way; Howard
and Shirley walker, applicants ntinued from 6/6/90):
Arnold Jonas, Community Development Dire reviewed the agenda report with
the recommendation that Council adopt a reso-i ipn which would deny the appeal
and uphold the decisions of the Planning Commission the Hearing Officer to
deny the request for the reduced streetyard setback bas n findings
indicated in the report.
Mayor Dunin declared the public hearing open.
Shirley Walker spoke in support of her appeal.
Mayor Dunin declared the .public hearing closed.
•
R E C E I V E L � - MEETING AGENDA ;y
112 Broad Street DATE /(f-90 M # l
SEP 1 8 1990 San Luis Obispo
CALIFORNIA 93405
CITYCLERKCLERK September 18, 19
SAN LUIS OBISPO.CA p,_s7T
Re : Tract 1750 , Sept . 18, 1990 agenda ❑__%� sAaion [Q F.
City Council �aL�J Gqp - 0mDDAt
❑ FAV.DM
City of San Luis Obispo CAO ❑ FVtEQMF
City Hal lTrORNEY 11FINDIR.
990 Palm St . O amuc/am p pOLKEcE
MCWSan Luis Obispo, CA 93401 0 RRPADFU� ��
DSL
Dear Council Members: ,.,
It is with great sadness that I see the staff's advocacy of this
controversial project boil down to the sort of dust-scattering,
nit-picking report submitted to you tonight .
I urge you to keep firmly in mind the major issue -- that the public
procedural and participatory process leading to tonight's meeting
has been shortchanged in two ways:
1 . The Specific Plan amendment process has not been followed; and
2. The EIR process has been shortchanged.
These points have been amply made elsewhere , and need no elaboration
here .
I am also saddened to see the continued factual distortions by
staff , the applicants and their consultants which confuse the
issues. Again , it is pointless to refute point-by-point the
hysterical staff and applicant presentations, but I must point-out -
four significant areas of on-going misrepresentation :
1 . The staff report again says the red-legged frog and the
two-striped garter snake are covered in the previous EIR or its
Appendix . This is FALSE. They are NOT mentioned, let along
discussed. Under separate cover I have asked Arnold Jonas to
retract this oft-repeated misinformation . The crux of this fact is
that all asumptions of adequacy of the previous EIR regarding the
species have been erased. This also means the present Addendum,
which assumes previous discussion , is now clearly inadequate .
2. The staff report states of the three species in question: ' the
EIR notes that they are species that can co-exist with humans. '
There is no such .statement in the EIR: I have asked Mr . Jonas
to retract this assertion . It is, in fact , contradicted by all the
scientific evidence that has been introduced: these species are at
imminent danger from development , human activity and domestic pets.
3. The Addendum relies on a single letter from the Department of
^ Fish and Game's Brian Hunter to justify its endorsement of
�\ Pacifica's development plans. While this letter does state the
minimum conditions under which Fish and Game will grant its
construction permits, no action by Fish and Game absolves the City
from its responsibilities as CEGA Lead Agency to diligently
perform its own envi .__nmental studies according' --, state law. There
are substantial problems with relyingon this single letter as
credible scientific evidence , not the least being that its
permissive tone stands alone among Fish and Game letters going back
to the 1970s, to cite but a few:
C
I . Letter of Karen Worcester, Fishery Biologist , DF&G, May 29,
1990 , calling for complete habitat studies before approval .
II . Letter of Brian Hunter , Regional Manager , DF&G, Aug. 9, 1989,
saying bike trail should be kept out of creek preservation area.
III . Letter of E. C. Fullerton , Director , DF&G, March 7, 19809
stating " Increased human activity in the streamside habitat will
result in the displacement of various species which will not
tolerate interruption, " and recommending bike paths not be built
near creeks. ( Included in EIR. )
.Clearly an Addendum whose conclusions are based on .such. one-sided
and unique " testimony" cannot be considered adequate protection of
the environental interests at stake , nor can it be expected to
withstand leoal scrutiny. The Addendum's shallowness and bias
make a mockery of the City's CEGA responsibilities.
4. The staff report states of the discrepancies between Tract 1750
and the Specific Pian that the former interim director determined
°all of the changes were minor .' This is untrue , and the
evidence exists in the staff reports for and on the tapes of the
Feb. 28 and Mar. 28, 1990 , Planning Commission meetings. At the
first meeting, staff mentioned a handful of Specific Plan
deviations, and I pointed out many others. Staff was totally
flat-footed when I did so. If there had been determinations on
these issues, why wouldn' t staff simply have said so at that time?
Instead, at the second meeting, Randy Rossi (no longer ICDD) made a
statement about his determinations on the issues already mentioned
by staff, but when pressed by me , admitted no determinations had
been made on the other discrepancies. Now, however , staff claims
those determinations, which Rossi publicly denied having made , were
made by him. We therefore have a factual problem with staff's
latest story justifying Tract 1750's Specific. Plan non-conformities.
It saddens me to see our public staff reduced to permforming this
sort of shoddy advocacy work for developers rather than protecting
the. public interest . They seem to have lost all sense of public
purpose . It is clear from the handling of Tract 1750 that there are
performance problems at the staff level , as well as oversight and
supervision problems at higher levels.
It is also clear that the City Council has not been fed gourmet fare
by the staff , and should bear in mind the abundance conflicting
evidence concerning Tract 1750 which has simply been ignored,
covered up , or distorted in presentations to the Council .
Sincerely,
�Z�� - i
C L4---
Richard Schmidt
C
1 �
pear City Council Members'. --' �, l •
This letter, along with a petition, concerns the development of'-th,6
north and easterly section of Islay Island Hill . The north portion of
Islay hill faces Tank Farm Road and the easterly section of Islay hill
faces the developed section of Wavertree Lane. The concerned citizens
for overdevlopment of vital green belt areas , call for a redevelopment
plan for the Islay Island Hill area. We ask that no homes be built on
the north or east baseline areas .
There will not be a second chance to set aside the south eastern portion
of the Islay Island Hill and surrounding base Eine. This crucial area
will not only be an important green belt, but will set future
precedents for the development within the. city of San Luis Obispo. If
this vital hill and base land is set aside now, future council members
along with planners will not have to look for new standards of
development, they will have established a model .
Individuals concerned with the proposed development of Islay Island Hill
and the surrounding base line, can write, phone or attend city council
meetings. All three of the above methods are equally important if the
Islay Island area is going to be set aside as a greenbelt area.
Address of City Council Members City Council Phone
Council Members 549-7111
P.O. Box 81
San Luis Obispo 93403
. 1 ) . Name . � 7 ) . Name [ :�,✓1J 'J^ ;
Addres
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Doar City Council Members: -
..Phis letter, along with a petition, concerns the development of the
north and easterly section of Islay Island Hill . The north portion of
Islay hill faces Tank Farm Road and the easterly section of 'Islay hill
faces the developed section of Wavertree Lane. The concerned citizens
for overdevlopment of vital green belt areas , call for a redevelopment
plan for the Islay Island Hill area. We ask that no homes be built on
the north or east baseline areas.
There will not be a second chance to set aside the south eastern portion
of the Islay Island Hill and surrounding base line. This crucial area
will not only be an important green belt, — but will set future
precedents for the development within the city of San Luis Obispo. If
this vital hill and base land is set aside now, future council members
along with planners will not have to look for new standards of
development, they will have established a model.
Individuals concerned with the proposed development of Islay Island Hill
and the surrounding base line, can write, phone or attend city council
meetings. All three of the above methods are equally important if the
Islay Island area is going to be set aside as a greenbelt area.
Address of City Council Members City Council Phone
Council Members 549-7111
P.O. Box 81
San Luis Obispo 93403
1 ) . Name 7 ) . Name
Address,Z�?,3 ! '�0It/{O Address
2) . Name pyJ 81 • NameC%
3 9 93 3' /4)Wd'&
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6 ) . Name 1 �G '''�� 13) . Name
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Address l��l/�.x-�� Addresses
Dear City Council Members:
This letter, along with a petition, concerns the development of the
north and easterlysection of Islay Island Hill . The north portion of
Islay hill faces Tank Farm Road and the easterly section of Islay hill
faces the developed section of Wavertree Lane. The concerned citizens
for overdevlopment of vital green belt areas , call for a redevelopment
plan for the Islay Island Hill area. We ask that no homes be built on
the north or east baseline areas.
There will not be a second chance to set aside the south eastern portion
of the Islay Island Hill and surrounding base line. This crucial area
will not only be an important green belt, but will set future
precedents for the development within the city,- of San Luis Obispo. If
this vital hill and base land is set aside now, future council members
along with planners will not have to look for new standards of
development , they will have established a model .
Individuals concerned with the proposed "development of Islay Island Hill
and the surrounding base line, can write , phone or attend city council
meetings. All three of the above methods are equally important if the
Islay Island area is going to be set aside as a greenbelt area.
Address of .City Council Members City Council Phone
Council MembeTs f 549-7111
P.O. Box 81
San Luis Obispo 93403
1 ) . Name fv,�z�7 4,ejow/�O 7 ) . Name (>
Addrebs/ 74/ XIA " Address /1/17
Q,f/0C)OPd i= fI��
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6 ) . Name �j�`}-)'t �+��^^ES 13) . Name
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Dear City Council Members:
This letter, along with a petition, concerns the development of the
north and easterly section of Islay Island Hill . The north portion of
Islay hill faces Tank Farm Road and the easterly section of Islay hill
faces the developed section of Wavertree Lane. The concerned citizens
for overdevlopment of vital green belt areas , call for a redevelopment
plan for the Islay Island Hill area. We ask that no homes be built on
the north or east baseline areas.
There will not be a second chance to set aside the south eastern portion
of the Islay Island Hill and surrounding base line. This crucial area
will not only be an important green belt, but will set future
precedents for the development within the city of San Luis Obispo. If
this vital hill and base land is set aside now, future council members
along with planners will not have to look for new standards of
development, they will have established a model .
Individuals concerned with the proposed development of Islay Island Hill
and the surrounding baseline, can write, phone or attend city council
meetings. All three of the above methods are equally important if the
Islay Island area is going to be set aside as a greenbelt area.
Address of City Council Members City Council Phone
Council Members 549-7111
P.O. Box 81
San Luis Obispo 93403
1 ) . Name h` �Ct_�� 7 ) . Name
Address �3�(L7 .�U�V.�dVc�(s 2.i� Address
Slo , �3�a 1
2) . Name 8 ) . Name
Address ��/ 3 �ti �l�Li Address
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3 ) . Name qjr�'4 10 ) . Name
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Address SL O C {9- R3 yv� Address
4) . Name 11 ) . Name
Address Address
5 ) . Name 12) . Name
Address Address
6 ) . Name 13 ) . Name
Address Address
Dear City Council Members:
This letter, along with a petition, concerns the development of the
north and easterly section of Islay Island Hill. The north portion of
Islay hill faces Tank Farm Road and the easterly section of Islay hill
faces the developed section of Wavertree Lane. The concerned citizens
for overdevlopment of vital green belt areas , call for a redevelopment
plan for the Islay Island Hill area. We ask that no homes be built on
the north or east baseline areas.
There will not be a second chance to set aside the south eastern portion
of the Islay Island Hill and surrounding base line. This crucial area
will not only be an important green belt, but will _ set future
precedents for the development within the city of San Luis Obispo. If
this vital hill and base land is set aside now, future council members
along with planners will not have to look for new standards of
development, they will have established a model.
Individuals concerned with the proposed development of Islay Island Hill
and the surrounding base line, can write, phone or attend city council
meetings. All three of the above methods are equally important if the
Islay Island area is going to be set aside as a greenbelt area.
Address of City Council Members City Council Phone
Council Members 549-7111
P.O. Sox 81
San Luis Obispo 93403
1 ) . Name M1c � —Ikv C4 I\e1 7 ) . Name
1e J
Address `{�S5 Wa& Address
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2 ) . Name ,(1 f � &Li 8 ) . Name
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3 ) • Name UN k &Ibi
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4 ) . Name 11 ) . Name
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5 ) . Name 12) . Name
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6 ) . Name 13 ) . Name
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Dear City Council Members , _
This letter, along with a petition, concerns the development of the
north and easterly section of Islay Island Hill . The north portion of
Islay hill faces Tank Farm Road and the easterly section of Islay hill
faces the developed section of Wavertree Lane. The concerned citizens
for overdevlopment of vital green belt areas , call for a redevelopment
plan for the Islay Island Hill area. We ask that no homes be built on
the north or east baseline areas.
There will not be a second chance to set aside the south eastern portion
of the Islay Island Hill and surrounding base line. This crucial area
will not only be an important green belt, but will set future
precedents for the development within the city of San Luis Obispo. If
this vital hill and base land is set aside now, future council members
along with planners will not have to look for new standards of
development, they will have established a model .
Individuals concerned with the proposed development of Islay Island Hill
and the surrounding base line, can write , phone or attend city council
meetings. All three of the above methods are equally important if the
Islay Island area is going to be set aside as a greenbelt area.
Address of City Council Members City Council Phone
Council Members 549-7111
P.O. Box 81
San Luis Obispo 93403
1 ) . Name Y� M���'., v 7 ) . Name"
Cay � Scum 'hews
AddressAddress
1 {13 F- SVA
ys35 c,�Jc.�.a- 1-reg,
2 ) . Name 8 ) . Name G / : '
V21`Z/ j/ V"/w ✓ 115L" Y C�� �Atre.Y-frC L'
Address Address
3) . Name
UAt 10 ) . Name C V4pO1
Address /`4U /'�,S'I�►�OtG. Address
4 ) . Name rj Luh Dial 1.1 ) . Name
�v
Address' Address
5 ) . Name ����� 12) . Name
Address Address
6 ) . Name 13 ame ,t.)(
�CcMCc.. n
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Address Address
Dear City Council Members:
i
Phis letter, along with a petition, concerns the development of the
north and easterly section of Islay Island Hill. The north portion of
Islay hill faces Tank Farm Road and the easterly section of Islay hill
faces the developed section of Wavertree Lane. The concerned citizens
for overdevlopment of vital green belt areas , call for a redevelopment
plan for the Islay Island Hill area. We ask that no homes be built on
the north or east baseline areas .
There will not be a second chance to set aside the south eastern portion
of the Islay Island Hill and surrounding base line. This crucial area
will not only be an important green belt, but will set future
precedents for the development within the city of San Luis Obispo. If
this vital hill and base land is set aside now, future council members
along with planners will not have to look for new standards of
development, they will have established a model.
Individuals concerned with the proposed development of Islay Island Hill
and the surrounding base line, can write, phone or attend city council
meetings. All three of the above methods are equally important if the
Islay Island area is going to be set aside as a greenbelt area.
Address of City Council Members City Council Phone
Council Members 549-7111
P.O. Box 81
San Luis Obispo 93403 i
l
1 ) . Name_ 7 ) . Name t L
Address �`� '��` Address
2 ) . Name /�, 8 ) . Name
Address c171 �a�iciC. LJ Address c/3�
zr
Liu
( JA '
3 ) . Name _ �L 'L � 10) . Name
Address 1!51 1zPRL(06A L Address �sC� � e����
4t
4 ) . Name 1 l ) . NamN �k
w e.,�����,AA V�'l
Address ((,l G, �G� Address 1,6 �CL)64
5 ) . Name �> / 12) . Name
Address �J.Z '7`�//Cf:� �IJ�zG Address/ Il
6 ) . Name J&PL nn�„j,.�s�y,, 13 ) . Name
Address 9i III�C /�� )� j/ Address
s �
Dear City Council Members: -
Phis letter, along with a petition, concerns the development of the
north and easterly section of Islay Island Hill. The north portion of
Islay hill faces Tank Farm Road and the easterly section of Islay hill
faces the developed section of Wavertree Lane. The concerned citizens
for overdevlopment of vital green belt areas , call for a redevelopment
plan for the Islay Island Hill area. We ask that no homes be built on
the north or east baseline areas .
There will not be a second chance to set aside the south eastern portion
of the Islay Island Hill and surrounding base line.. This crucial area
will not only be an important green belt, but will set future
precedents for the development within the city of San Luis Obispo. If
this vital hill and base land is set aside now, future council members
along with planners will not have to look for new standards of
development, they will have established a model .
Individuals concerned with the proposed development of Islay Island Hill
and the surrounding base line, can write, phone or attend city council
meetings. All three of the above methods are equally important if the
Islay Island area is going to be set aside as a greenbelt area.
Address of City Council Members City Council Phone
Council Members 549-7111
P.O. Box 81
San Luis Obispo 93403
Q- n C�
1 ) . Name �T���`�--' 7 ) . Nam47V-711 C-e—e-41J.
Address Address
lav-t'l,►&O^e i oZ I() L) �-
SL-Uj UA. (I4-61 a
2 ) . Name 8 ) . Name ;w C� � yv'S
aEgAa A. 82rAKedluj�
LY
Address Address
1%9 13102 PO 13dX �-�
s,.o 93Y06 cSayzLuis O,b�sP�. Q
3 ) . Name �, j��/ �P�j � 10 ) . Name / )4xa.
AL
Address 4(35"1' l.ii9'✓6ZPW Address /4035
5 L-0 q ND/ S L- D
4 ) . Names ��� ,,,pVyR 11 ) . Name
Address (e 8 (-W4 S¢,rvk% iDr• Address
5) . Name �i. 12) . Name ; y AuILI
Address Fik/M ST Address q*a6a Wai�2te cC� `�
6 ) . Name 13) . Name
Address 2$;�l Lt4kM+/� U&Y ` ✓": Address
ear City Council Members:{
his letter, along with a petition, concerns the development of the
orth and easterly_ section of Islay Island Hill . The north portion of
slay hill faces Tank Farm Road and the easterly section of Islay hill
aces the developed section of Wavertree. Lane. The concerned citizens
or overdevlopment of vital green belt areas , call for a redevelopment
plan for the Islay Island Hill area. We ask that no homes be built on
.he north or east baseline areas.
'here will not be a second chance to set aside the south eastern portion
)f the Islay Island Hill and surrounding base line. This crucial area
rill not only be an important green belt, but will set future.
)recedents for the development within the city of San Luis Obispo. If
:his vital hill and base land is set aside now, future council members
►long with planners will not have to look for new standards of
ievelopment, they will have established a model .
[ndividuals concerned with the proposed development of Islay Island Hill
ind the. surrounding base line, can write, phone or attend city council
neetinga. All three of the above methods are equally important if the
Islay Island area is going to be set aside as a greenbelt area.
Address of City Council Members City Council Phone
Council Members 549-7111
P.O. Box 81
San Luis Obispo 93403
1 ) . Name ��. IJ r� C56 v 7 ) . Name
/�,
I/ �
Address 1 Address
1 ' '
�) 2 WGUt'✓�✓ee
S. L13`01
2 ) • Name---- 8 ) . Name
'L13L(� WAUrF-Z tFF-&.1
Address' Cn ' Ci 3y Address
3) . Name 10) . Name
/,/ --V/ .
Address Address
5/,f 310 60,4VeXr erd�T
s7zo 0-0, 919140/
4 ) . Name l _ 11 ) . Name
`1 .
I
Address Address
''x.3)6 L4-)c_wC14YC9- 5`F.
S�> cA
5) . Name O C 12) . Name
Address Address
3.110 �I.t/arrvv�.�.e .•d� .
Ca . 13 1-10 �
6) . Nam 13) . Name
Address Address
y300 i,. ULs77-T
su).)e -- C13` V)
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-ear City Council Members : -
,his letter, along with a petition, concerns the development of the
.orth and easterly section of Islay Island Hill . The north portion of
.slay hill faces Tank Farm Road and the easterly section of Islay hill
aces the developed section of Wavertree Lane. The concerned citizens
or overdevlopment of vital green belt areas , call for a redevelopment
)lan for the Islay Island Hill area. We ask that no homes be built on
:he north or east baseline areas.
'here will not be a second chance to set aside the south eastern portion
)f the Islay Island Hill and surrounding base line. This crucial area
;ill not only be an important green belt, but will set future
)recedents for the development within the city of San Luis Obispo. If
:his vital hill and base land is set aside now, future council members
along with planners will not have to look for new standards of
ievelopment, they will have established a model .
[ndividuals concerned with the proposed development of Islay Island Hill
ind the surrounding base line, can write, phone or attend city council
neetings. All three of the above methods are equally important if the
Islay Island area is going to be set aside as a greenbelt area.
Address of City Council Members City Council Phone
Council Members 549-7111
P.O. Box 81
San Luis Obispo 93403
1 ) . Name ��1"lv1 L1�rL.Q/��i 7 ) . Name
Address ` � G �LGe�?.P1 Address
2 ) . Name 8 ) . Na `a, -,0-,.
AddressAddress � Z A- A
�
3 ) . Name �/j/� �/��J 10 } . Name. U.
Address
• J f4CL
Addressk/
�
� : � r �6wh0�. 11 ) . Name
4 ) . Name C ��
�
Address 'L 1 I q C kv- fhtAl-5� . 5L-() Address
No GtLavJ�F� n
5) . Name � � 12) . Name
l ,e�" / Address
Address / / /� ��•, (/C�� / 441�
6) . Name 1► 13) . Name
Address r� Address
September 17, 1990
TO: City Council
FROM: Bill Roalman
RE: Tract 1750
Tract 1750 does not conform to the Edna-Islay Specific Plan in several
Important aspects and should be denied. Specific "major" deviations
Include:
1. Routing the bikeway through the creek protection area.
2. Houses at higher elevations than called for in the Specific
Plan. Also, the Specific Plan calls for the roadway to be the
urban edge along the base of Islay Hill. The proposed plan has
houses forming the urban edge.
3. The railroad buffer has been reduced significantly.
Before these changes are approved, there should be an application to
amend the Specific Plan and public hearings.
I feel the project's environmental impacts on landfill capacity,
municipal water supplies, and riparian habitat necessitate a
Supplemental EIR.
Approving..this project without allowing the public to comment on the
adequacy of the addendum defeats the purpose of open government.